Henry VIII: August 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: August 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/pp330-344 [accessed 10 December 2024].

'Henry VIII: August 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 December 10, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp330-344.

"Henry VIII: August 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. 10 December 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp330-344.

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August 1542, 6-10

6 Aug.
R. O.
573. Same to Same.
This day, the lord Deputy, Marshal, and Comptroller being here to take the muster of Mr. Poynynges' company and Wallop's horsemen, a gentleman of Mons. de Torsey brought a letter (enclosed) stating that Vandosme's camp was before Tourneham. Thanked him for his neighbourly advertisement, praying him to write to Vandosme to see that his men did not hurt the King's subjects, and declaring that the mustering and coming over of Englishmen was not to be wondered at, seeing the great number of men up both on the Imperial side and theirs. Has received their letters from Windsor, 3 Aug., and notes the matter touching Mons de Rieulx, and daily to advertise the King, this camp being so nigh, "and put as little trust in the Frenchmen, notwithstanding their fair words, as the Bourgonyons now doth." Guisnes, Sunday, 6 Aug. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
7 Aug.
R. O.
574. Henry VIII. to his Wardens of the Borders.
The King of Scots' ambassador now here has, after long debate, obtained a stay of attemptates and the King's consent to send down command for the same, with this condition, that, seeing they have been the beginners of these troubles, his Majesty shall give the last revenge for the same. "And albeit th'ambassador stood fast that the first occasion ministered sithens the departure of the Commissioners rose on this side, and would therefore have had the stay certain, without any such qualification; yet the King's Majesty would none otherwise agree unto it than is before specified, so as he was content finally to take it as he might, seeing he could not have it as he would." (fn. 1) You shall consider what attemptates have been done on both sides since the Commissioners departed; and, if it appear that the Scots have "no great advantage, you shall then, putting yourself in order only to defend, [and] (fn. 2) forbear and take order, as much as in you is, that all the Borderers under your charge (fn. 3) do forbear to attempt any further thing against the Scots." If the Scots attempt anything notable, you shall revenge it; but only if it is a notable raid apparently done by consent of the rulers. How all things have proceeded since the departure of the Commissioners, you shall, for your charge (fn. 3), report with diligence.
Corrected draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 3. Endd. : "vijo Aug. to the wardens."

R. O.
575. The War.
On 7 Aug. Mr. Audeley and I, Henry Palmere, went to Arde to Mons. de Torsey, who gently accepted our coming and Mr. Wallop's commendations, declaring that, next his own master, he was the King's servant, and would show all Englishmen what friendship he could. During dinner he received news that the duke of Orleans has gotten two towns in Lewsenbourke, one by assault, the other yielden, and has besieged Yvoy, as strong town, in which are 3,000 Almains. With that, came news from the Duke of Vandom's camp at Tornaham that, on 6 Aug., the Duke took a little castle, called Eperlek, in which were 300 Burgundians, who refused to render and were all slain. Another castle called Frolland yielded. After dinner, De Torsey said that Vandome was informed that Mons. Dewras "would banquet within with 5,000 Englishmen, which he had under him." Said they knew of no such Englishmen; and he was very glad.
He then sent his standard bearer to conduct them, who took them, through part of the ditches by the Green bulwark and the "festyne," to Tornaham, where they "found the duke of Vandome accompanied with the Count de Bryan, Mons. de Biez, the bishop of Terrewen, who was very warlike apparrelled, and with divers other noblemen, they were in a house near unto the town gate of Tornaham on Saynt Omer's side." The Duke received Mr. Wallop's letters most courteously, and said he had that day commanded that none should be so hardy to come upon English ground. Thanked him gently and returned to Guisnes. Signed : Henry Palmere : Thomas Audeley.
Pp. 2. Endd. by Wallop's clerk : The declaration of Henry Palmer and Thomas Awdeley of their being at Tourneham with Mons. de Vandosme.
7 Aug.
R. O.
576. Adrien De Croy [Sieur De Roeulx] to Wallop.
Thanks for his letter. Is chiefly glad that the King remembers him. The carriage, for the enterprise that Wallop knows, will be soon ready, and the King may be assured of his diligence. Our enemies are before Tournehen castle, which, I fear, will be lost; for I have not enough men to succour it by battle, after providing for the other towns in my charge, and have not near so many horsemen as the enemy. A few Englishmen would have greatly deterred our enemies. I would like you to provide some if possible. Begs him to forward a letter to the ambassador in England. Waten, 7 Aug. 1542. Signed.
French, p. 1. Add. Endd. : Mons. de Rieulx to Mr. Wallop, vijo Aug. ao xxxiiijo.
[*** An abstract of the above from a copy at Vienna will be found in the Spanish Calendar, VI. ii., No. 40.

R. O. St. P., V. 211.
577. Scotland.
Instructions given by the King to the earl of Rutland, whom he sends to his borders foreanempst Scotland.
To proceed with all diligence to the Borders with his own retinue and such others whereof he has a note in writing. There to consult with Sir Robt. Bowes, Sir John Harrington, Sir John Markham and John Uvedale, appointed to be his Council for all secret matters; and hear Bowes' account of the state of the Borders. If, for attemptates since the departure of the Commissioners, the King is fully even with the Scots, he shall take order that the Borders under his charge forbear from attemptates, unless the Scots attempt some notable thing (not a mere "skegge or theft," but a notable raid apparently authorised by the rulers of Scotland); "which order his Majesty hath lately prescribed to the said Sir Robert Bowes and to his deputy wardens on the said marches accordingly."
In all affairs, as he and his secret Council think expedient, he shall use the advice of the deputy wardens, John Heron and the pensioners. He shall entertain the Liddersdalles and other Scottish men who show willingness to serve the King; but secretly and discreetly, so that they may gain no advantage, by espial or otherwise, nor be procured further than themselves offer, albeit he may use dexterity to win them or stay them for a time. He shall keep good watch and espial.
Draft, pp. 6. Endd. : Th'earl of Rutland's instructions.
8 Aug.
Add. MS. 32,647. f. 23. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 118.
578. Henry VIII. to John Uvedale.
Has appointed him to accompany the earl of Rutland (who is now sent to the Borders of Scotland as lord warden of the Marches), to be secretary and Privy Councillor there, and also treasurer, receiving and paying wages and charges of the Earl and garrison, according to a schedule herewith signed by divers of the Council. He shall immediately depart to the Borders, committing his office of clerk of the Council, in his absence, to some person nominated by the lord President. To enable him to pay this deputy, allows him 4s. a day while on the Borders.
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 3. Endd. : Minute to John Uvedale, secretary of the Council in the North, viijo Aug. ao xxxiiijo."
8 Aug.
Add. MS. 32,647. f. 21. B. M. Hamilton Papers. No. 117.
579. Henry VIII. to the Bishop Of Llandaff.
Sending the earl of Rutland to the Borders, as Lord Warden there, has appointed John Uvedal, secretary there, to accompany him as secretary and treasurer, and has appointed the Bishop to name a clerk of the Council there in his absence, to be paid by him. Commands him to elect such a person and swear him to truth and secrecy.
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 2. Endd. : "Minute to the President of the North, viijo Aug. ao xxxiiijo."
8 Aug.
Add. MS. 19,401. f. 54. B. M.
580. Henry VIII. to James V.
Has received his letters, written with his own hand, by Mr. James Leremonth, one of the masters of his household, and heard his credence. As to the part of his letters requiring commissioners to be sent to the Borders, to confer with his commissioners for redress of attemptates lately committed, thinks it more convenient that his commissioners, if he minds to send any, should come here. Remits further answer to the relation of his said ambassador. Windsor Castle, 8 Aug. 34 Hen. VIII. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.
8 Aug.
R. O.
581. John Bothe, Archdeacon of Hereford.
Copy of the last will of John Bothe, D.D., archdeacon of Herdforth, appointing his body to be buried at Chester and bequeathing certain hangings, furniture and farm stock to various relatives. Dated 8 Aug. 1542. With note appended that certain witnesses to it were examined at Chester 3 Oct. 34 Hen. VIII.
ii. Grant of administration of the above, 20 Nov. 1542, and acceptance of proof of the same 10 Feb. 1543, by Geo. Wymslye, Ll.B., vicar general of John, bp. of Chester.
Pp. 4. ii. in Latin.
Harl. MS. 1991 f. 205. B. M. 2. Another copy of the will on parchment. Signed "George Cestrea.," (fn. 4) and certified as an extract from the Register [of Chester] by J. Chetam.
Ib. f. 231. 3. Another copy also on parchment, with certificate of the grant of probate endorsed.
Ib. f. 24. 4. Extract, perhaps contemporary with 2, from an inquisition post mortem taken at Chester on Saturday after the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul upon the said John Bothe.
Lat. Large paper, pp. 4.
8 Aug.
R. O.
582. Wallop to the Council.
Although informed of the giving over of Tourneham this morning very early, would not certify it until he knew further; and therefore sent Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Palmer, feigning that he had letters out of England from Mr. Knevet, to require of Mons. de Vandosme that, in case his daughter was within the castle, she might be safely delivered to them. On their way, they met 7 battery pieces returning to Arde with Mons. de Backefeld and 500 footmen Normans. Coming to Mons. de Vandosme in the field, they presented Wallop's letter and were taken into the castle, to Prymeoke that was captain there, who said Mr. Knevet's daughter was at Bourbrought. Then Vandosme and De Beez both offered services to the King. They asked De Beez what Vandosme would do next, and he said they would take Mountory and then "go against such as they should find by the way." Said Mons. de Rieulx would meet them with 12,000 men. De Beez answered that if they met him he would "give his Order in gage" that he should be fought with. De Beez further said he heard that the King had sent 8,000 foot and certain artillery to Antwerp; but their answer satisfied him.
With Vandosme were not above 3,000 Picards, 3,000 Normans and 2,000 enfants de Paris, and 2,000 horse. Within the castle were but 50 men of war, the rest peasants. The captain went with bag and baggage, the footmen left their weapons, and the peasants remained at the discretion of Mons. de Vandosme, lives and goods. Mr. Long's men arrived this afternoon, 100 tall men in good order, and many fair archers. Guysnes, 8 Aug. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
8 Aug.
R. O. St. P., IX. 107.
583. Sir Thomas Seymour to Henry VIII.
News is here so uncertain that he cannot vouch for it. The Turk is coming in person to Buda with 300,000 men, divided in six battles, intending to attack on six sundry days. This army intends, therefore, to tract time until the midst of October; for in the end of October the Danube is frozen, so that the Turk cannot then bring his victuals by water. If it was certain that the Turk would not come in person, even if he sent 200,000 men, as Baron Hedeke says, they would straight to Pest, which could be taken in three days, and then besiege Buda, which might be battered sufficiently for the assault in eight days. Missing it, they would garrison Pest, Stregone, Rabbe, and other strongholds and retire home for the winter. This enterprise can wait six weeks yet. The Turk has lately sent 14,000 men to Buda and Pest, making 32,000 in all; but they are sore punished with plague, men falling dead as they walk in the streets.
Two days ago Laur. Grey, a bastard, as he says, of one of lord Grey of Welton's uncles, came to declare that, lately, two Englishmen, Harry Pfelepes and James Greffeth Uppowell, came to Vienna. Perceiving Pfelepes to be a traitor. Grey fell out with him and laid "travterey" to his charge, and he is detained by the heads of the town. If it can be proved, he will lose his eyes; but Grey says Pfelepes has confessed "that he hath been ambassador for the Turk divers times by the space of v. years," and therefore, as a traitor to the King of Hungary, he should lose his life. The other, being the ranker traitor, as Sevmour thinks, has a letter from the Bishop of Rome to be captain of 2,000 "howsherenes," the best light horse of Hungary; and seems to have some hope thereof, or else he "would not leave his return to Rome from Noremberge to tarry the King's coming to Veyena." He names himself Robert Bramto[n], but is well known in Vienna to have before this confessed himself a gentleman of Wales, and his name to be James Greffeth Upowehell. Mistrusts him the more because he says, "who so ever saith that Harry Pffelepes is not an honest, true man he is unhonest himself." Has written to Hance Hongganowde. the King's lieutenant (who is in Vienna because of the sickness of his wife), according to the copy enclosed. If his answer shows him disposed to do the King "this pleasure," will ride to Vienna and examine the parties. From the Camp, 12 Hongreche miles from Buda, 8 Aug
Hol. pp. 4. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
8 Aug.
Poli Epp., III. 60.
584. Cardinal Pole to Cardinal Contarini.
Not having time, owing to important business, to answer his last most learned letters sent by M. Octaviano Zeno, writes this only in acknowledgment of their receipt, reserving the full answer until he has leisure, for he cannot play the parts both of Martha and Mary at the same time, as Contarini does. Thanks him for the letters. Viterbo, 8 Aug. 1542.
P.SHas heard of the election of Contarini for Spain and Sadolet for France. May God grant them that success which all Christendom yearns for.
Italian and Latin.
8 Aug.
Poli Epp., III. 102.
585. Cardinal Pole to Cardinal Cervini.
In favour of the Father Vice-procurator, the bearer, who has well fulfilled his commission to bring from Florence hither the abbess and nuns who were wanted for the reform of S. Rosa. Viterbo, 8 Aug., 1542.
Italian.
9 Aug.
Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 41.
586. Chapuys to the Queen Of Hungary.
Yesterday at dinner time met the French ambassador at Windsor, whither they had both been summoned by the King to hear certain declarations from his Councillors; which were that, owing to the alarm in Christendom occasioned by the war between the Emperor and Francis, and seeing that the King of Scots was said to have called on his subjects to be ready for war, Henry had also determined to arm and levy men, and had equipped warships, which were ready to sail immediately, and wished the belligerents to be warned not to violate the privileges of English ports or illtreat English seamen. Chapuys, in answer, thanked the King, and said he had already written home about it, and was sure both the Emperor and the Queen of Hungary would do what was right. He was sure no one could misinterpret the King's action. The French ambassador made a similar answer, only hoping that any mischief done by ill-disciplined soldiers, which his master would promptly punish, would not alienate Henry's friendship. Thinks this addition to his speech was ill-advised.
Heard afterwards from the lord Privy Seal that the King approved his answer. It is true he had time to prepare it, having been told privately, before the French ambassador's arrival, of the communication about to be made, and, further, that the King, while expecting an answer from the Emperor, was raising 15,000 or 16,000 men under the lord Privy Seal's command, to be sent wherever they were most wanted, and that he would almost immediately send to sea 13 or 14 of his best warships, well-manned, and had, besides, a galley almost ready to go out. This, the lord Privy Seal said, would stop the depredations of French privateers who have been busy ever since the war began; besides which, the King was willing that his ships might succour the ports in the Low Countries, though he would not send troops or take open part with the Emperor till he had news from Spain, such as he expected shortly. Chapuys having told the lord Privy Seal, he supposed that he and the French ambassador had been called to declare their reasons for the war, as had been done at the commencement of the last war, the lord Privy Seal said his master knew perfectly well who was wrong this time.
Neither Chapuys nor the French ambassador saw the King, but the latter remained half an hour with the Council to listen to grievances of merchants, &c. Understands he left the Court dissatisfied and told a French merchant that it was not safe for Frenchmen to remain longer in England. Heard from one of the Councillors that neither the French ambassador nor Secretary Laubespine showed the King the draft of the treaty Francis has made with the King of Sweden,a proof that they despair of getting him to join the league.
Since this steward (matre d'htel) to James V. arrived to excuse certain late raids of the Scots, a body of 2,000 horse of that country has entered England. All but a few avant coureurs lay in ambush near the frontier, and when the riders were attacked by four or five English gentlemen and their servants, those in ambush came out and slew all the English to the number of 42. On hearing this the King was so incensed that he refused to see the Scotch ambassador. Yet afterwards, learning that the English had crossed the Borders and, in revenge, slain three or four times the number of Scots, he agreed to give him audience the day before yesterday. It is thought, however, that Norfolk will go to the frontier and take the command, and recruiting of men for that and other quarters goes on fast.
Four days ago the King had the courtmaster (governor) of the English nation at Antwerp thrown into prison, for his cowardice in leaving the town for fear of the people of Gueldres. An officer (fn. 5) at Guisnes has likewise been arrested on suspicion of being in intelligence with the French through his wife, a Frenchwoman. However much the French may have exaggerated the importance of Hochstrate and Dampvilliers which they took some time ago, they have not succeeded in altering the King's goodwill to the Queen of Hungary. But if Turnehem and Montoire fall into their hands some change in their feelings to us is to be apprehended. London, 9 Aug. 1542.
From the Vienna Archives.
9 Aug.
R. O.
587. Wallop to the Council.
Wrote yesterday of the taking of Tourneham. To-day sent espials to Tourneham and Mountory. The first reports that all this day they have been mining under the walls, intending to overthrow the castle and burn the town, and then do the like at Mountory; and so run all Bredenerd over, overthrowing strong churches and holds, the Great Master being retired over the water towards Gravelyn; who, if he had had sufficient horsemen, might have done them much harm, as they straggle so, and in their camp lie so wildly without hedge, ditch, or carts. A good number of Northern horsemen should have given them many alarms, but, for the Burgundians, they lie as quietly as if in the midst of France. A bruit has run these 5 or 6 days that Vandosme expects 3,000 or 4,000 Bretons, but the espial now denies it. They speak of many Englishmen being with De Rieux, insomuch that Vandosme wrote this day desiring to know the truth. Replied that he knew of no such thing, nor of any such four gentlemen, with 300 men each, going to serve De Rieux, as appears by his letter enclosed. His espial brought word from Mountory that at 9 o'clock "they" minded to live and die there, at 12 o'clock they all fled away, and at 1 o'clock two ensigns of Frenchmen entered.
Encloses a remembrance of ordnance and gunners necessary for the new fortifications. Guysnes, 9 Aug. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
9 Aug.
R. O.
588. Vendome to Wallop.
Heard this morning that four English gentlemen were with the Sieur de Roeux two days ago, who each promised to bring him 300 men, and being unwilling to believe it, considering the alliance, sends bearer to enquire the truth. Camp of Tournehen, 9 Aug. Signed : Antoine.
French, p. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd. : Mons. de Vandosme to Mr. Wallop, ixo Aug. ao xxxiiijo.
9 Aug.
R. O. St. P. IX. 110.
589. Paget to Henry VIII.
Since last despatch has received two letters from the Council (with duplicate of Henry's letter to the French king), one commanding him to require a double of the league contracted with the kings of Denmark, Scotland, and Sweden, and the dukes of Saxony and Cleves; the other appointing him (as of himself) to move the Admiral touching the pension. Went to dinner to the Admiral, whose entertainment was at first stranger than heretofore. Details conversation, which he began by hoping that English merchants would be protected in these wars. The Admiral promised this, and said their quarrel was only with the Emperor, for killing five of their ambassadors, and yet they had sent home his ambassador in safety, and were still willing to treat if, as was said, the ambassador had by the way received instructions to do so. Paget said the Admiral should provide that their subjects should treat the English amiably, for he had been asked if there was war between them for the pension, and had laughed it off, but really he marvelled that they made no device for satisfaction of it; their demand had been unreasonable, but he thought a great deal less would please them now. The Admiral said the quantity was always remitted to England, desiring the rest as of liberality; he would gladly devise to confirm this amity, and as for the pension, the two kings were rich enough, the one to pay and the other to forbear.
The Admiral then led Paget by the hand to the King, asking by the way for the letter which Henry wrote him, as he considered Henry's letters amongst his greatest treasure. Found all the ambassadors attending to speak with the King, and, after the Nuncio, Paget was called. Said that as Laubespyny had in England made overture of a league offensive and defensive with the kings of Scots, &c., reserving a place in it for Henry to enter within six months, and as Henry had, by letter, required him (Francis) to give Paget a double of it, he had come to know his pleasure. Francis answered that, having a just quarrel with the Emperor, he had entered such a league, (fn. 6) "only defensive against the Emperor," with the said kings and the duke of Prussia, and expected the dukes of Saxony and Cleve to join, but had, for very love, left the first place for Henry and (upon its return, confirmed, in 15 or 20 days) would send it to Henry. Details further dialogue, in which Francis urged the advantage of joining such a great league, and said the king of Denmark should furnish 50 ships, the king of Sweden, who is rich in gold and silver, 60 (making "a hundred between them, adding their confederates of the Hans"), and the king of Scots 50 ships; besides furnishing 7,000 or 8,000 men and, at the charge of the demandant, 18,000 lansknechts. Paget asked if in their leagues they did not include their allies. Francis replied yes, but this was only defensive, and Henry had not kept his league, for when the Emperor last invaded and Mons. de Terbes demanded 12 ships, he refused them. Paget said he thought his master had done all he ought, and wished every man had done the same to him; and Francis answered laughing that he said this because Henry so much esteemed the Emperor's amity, and now the Emperor had invaded his country of St. Paull, but since Henry refused to aid him before, according to the treaty, he would not again ask him. Paget said there was never reasonable thing proponed to his master but it received reasonable answer; and he was sure Henry was grieved at this hot war. Francis said he would chafe it still more, for Vendosme was besieging Turneham (or Dornem) with 8,000 footmen, &c. (detailed), which lay between Arde and Turwyn, and would then go to Arras; the duke of Cleves had taken a strong town in Friesland; and Longevale and the marshal of Cleves, with 13,000 or 15,000 footmen and 2,000 horse, had taken Hochstrate and now besieged Anvers, into which the Prince of Orange had only escaped with great loss, and which was probably by this time taken. He had written to them to take 200,000 cr. or 300,000 cr. as booty, and let it alone, or, if refused, to sack it but send Englishmen's goods out in safety. Paget said the English merchants were much beholden to him, and if the news was true, he had "a great fordeale." He replied it was true as the Gospel, for he this morning had letters of it from his ambassador in England, to whom his spies in Flanders could send news in 24 hours, although the passages by land were stopped. He added that Orleans, who had 8,000 lansknechts, 8,000 French adventurers, and 2,000 horse, would not sleep; and he himself would go in person, for he heard that the Emperor would be there. Paget asked what would become of the ambassadors, and was told that they should lie at some good town of Languedoc, and come sometimes to make good cheer and see the war.
Asks pardon for faults on his own part in the above discussions. Henry will know the truth of the news of Flanders. Francis said he received letters from England this morning, but Paget heard the same news bruited yesterday, and on Monday heard that all Flanders was revolted. Is sure Henry knows whether the kings aforesaid can furnish the said rate of ships.
They love not to hear of the pension as Paget has noted in all his conferences with the Admiral and French king, and the Card, of Turnon is reported by his secretary to have said that the French king expected Henry to join the Emperor against them. Also, since last despatch, the ambassador of Ferrare has said to Paget that he would the marriage of Orleans and Henry's daughter had gone forward, and, on Paget's saying the demand was too unreasonable, added that it had been as well to quit the debt that way as never to have it paid, for the French king said that Henry had broken league with him; and the English might be sure that whenever they asked the pension earnestly it would make a breach with France. This ambassador and the Cardinal of Ferrare are buckle and thong, and the Cardinal is one of the Privy Council, and he and the Cardinal of Lorraine "the King's only minions." Learns much from this ambassador, who says Henry practises with the Emperor, and has sent a bishop (fn. 7) into Spain to conclude a league against France. Whether these reports are true, or whether the ambassador is only "a minister to practise" with Paget, he shall learn nothing that may touch Henry.
If the ambassadors are left in Languedoc 12 or 10 leagues (that is almost 40 miles) from the King, it will be difficult to learn news. The King is here and departs in a day or two by water to Avignon; and, unless he tarries there, "we that go by land" are not like to see him until we come to the camp, for he has sent to the Dolphin to march on before. The Admiral rules alone, Turnon tarrying here and Anebault in the wars, while the Chancellor is prisoner in the tower of Burges whither Mons. de Nancy and 50 of the Guard led him from Argilly. Common bruit ascribes his ruin to refusal to seal certain writings; but credible report says he has been taken in a trip before in matters of finances, and that now he has persuaded the King that there was more money ready (through the salt and other impositions) than is now found, and that the King has taken this displeasure the rather to appease the Bryttons, who lately made insurrection for that matter. The President Montolon is sent for to be Chancellor. Thinks this King has written of it to his ambassador. Mons. St. Ravy, who went to Rome for a cardinal's hat for the Chancellor, is also sent for, from the Dolphin's band, to be committed to ward; which raises suspicion that his fall is due to some practice with the Bishop of Rome. General Boyer and the Chancellor's secretary are also in ward, but whether it be for want of money or to amass money, Paget cannot tell. Great means is made for money, and all that used to be put in bank at 5 or 8 per cent. the King will have for 10 per cent. Our practice to take Nice is discovered, and the captain of the castle executed by the duke of Savoy. Blanchefosse and Mons. de la Gryse departed two days ago to levy 7,000 or 8,000 Swiss, having tarried here for money, which Turnon has persuaded the merchant strangers to pay, although it was not due till after this fair. The Italians and Almains, of whom he wrote, are shipped from Savon, beside Genes, to Spain. The Prior of Capes and Captain Blanckard with four galleys have gone from Marseilles to lie in wait between Genes and Barcelona. The duke of Alva, with 5,000 men, is at Perpignan, where man, woman, and child have been labouring at the fortification. This King has lost by fire at Marseilles a ship called the Marguerite, of 500 or 600 tons. The Landgrave of Hesse is in arms against the duke of Brunswick, which is likely to hinder proceedings against the Turk. One of the County Palantynes has come down towards Flanders with lansknechts for the Emperor. One that came straight from the Turk's army, in the same vessel as this King's packet, says the galleys were not ready, nor Chevalier Daux arrived at Constantinople, nor the galleys likely to pass on this side Cecile; and "here we begin to say that we pass not much for th'army by sea," and our biscuit will furnish our army by land, for in Spain is great scarcity of corn. Lyons, 9 Aug., midnight. Signed.
Pp. 14, part in cipher. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
Caius College MS. 597. p. 152. 2. Letter-book copy of the preceding, in the hand of Paget's clerk, with the cipher passage deciphered.
Pp. 10.
9 Aug.
R. O. St. P., IX. 109.
590. Edmond Harvel to Henry VIII.
Wrote on the 30th ult. Letters from Constantinople of 10 July affirm that the Turk's navy shall not issue out this year; which is evident. There is no mention of the Turk's going to Hungary. Polin, the French ambassador, has been greatly honoured and received rich presents, but no conclusion is known. It is divulged that war is published in France, and that the French have taken Villa Franca beside Nisa in Provence. "By relations from Almayne the Christian host went always forwards towards Buda couragiously," and should not lack. The Venetians have arrested certain gentlemen of Bressa for treason. Their orator writes from Rome that the Bishop has "taken certain Englishmen (fn. 8) which intended to have slain Pole." Venice, 9 Aug. 1542.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
9 Aug.
R. O.
591. Portugal.
Decree of John III. of Portugal prohibiting the unlading of merchandise imported by his subjects from Flanders, England, &c., at places more than 10 leagues from the frontier. Lisbon, 9 Aug. 1542.
Portuguese, pp. 6. Modern Copy from the Archives of Torre do Tombo. (R.T. 104, No. 110.)
10 Aug.
Dasent's A.P.C., 20.
592. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Windsor, 10 Aug. Present : Southampton, Sussex, Hertford, Russell, Durham, Winchester, Gage, Wingfield, Wriothesley. No business recorded.
[Next entries are 12 and 13 Aug.]
10 Aug.
R. O.
593. [The Privy Council] to Sir Thos. Cheyney.
The Frenchmen have laid siege to Turneham, and are like to win it, and so go to Montory, "and finally to achieve so much of the Low Parts" as may be no less to the King's detriment than the Emperor's. The King has, therefore, written to Wallop asking how many men might relieve them if sent over in haste. (fn. 9) To be ready "for the enterprise of that country you wot of," you shall see those near you, with diligence, put their numbers in order as appointed, that there may be "suddenly turned over" 1,500 or 2,000 men, and see to have shipping ready. It will please the King to advertise him how many he can trust to have there at an hour's warning. Enclose "the letters" with a book of the names of those appointed to make men in Kent. The letters are to be sent to the sheriff to deliver, and the book he may keep. The purpose he must keep most secret.
Draft, pp. 3. Endd. : Minute to Mr. Treasurer, xo Aug. ao xxxiiijo.
10 Aug.
R. O. St. P., ix. 119.
594. [The Privy Council] to Wallop.
The King has heard his letters of the 7th, and those of De Rieulx, and the declaration of Awdeley and Palmer, sent with them. Wallop must thank De Rieulx for his letters and promise to travail to get him some Englishmen, advising him meanwhile to take the best men of war of his frontier garrisons, supplying their place with townsmen, and stay his enemies (to give them an overthrow, considering they are the flower of all their garrisons, would make way for some exploit upon their strongest towns, and they could not both give an overthrow and hurt any strong town); and so encourage him. The King's inclination, which Wallop must keep most secret, is that, if the Regent commission De Rieulx to treat for a reciproque, as the ambassador here has written to her, Wallop shall have such a commission for that purpose as will show the Emperor that the King tenders the necessity of his countries as their ancient amity requires. Wallop shall with all diligence report how many Englishmen might, with De Rieulx's men, meet the Frenchmen in the field, or stay their further enterprises.
P.S.Received his letters of the 8th, and will send them to the King at Sonninghill. In writing to De Rieulx he should "touch the small number of Mons. de Vandosmes camp that he may thereby conceive the better courage t'encounter with the same."
Draft, pp. 7. Endd. : Minute to Mr. Wallop, xo Aug, ao xxxiiijo.
10 Aug.
R. O. St. P., IX. 122.
595. The Privy Council to Chapuys.
The King has just received letters from Wallop, lieutenant at Guisnes, and letters (herewith) from De Reulx to Wallop, desiring some Englishmen to help them. Seeing the Frenchmen's extreme proceedings, the King is inclined to show himself a most hearty friend to the Emperor, "though he be yet unbound for anything passed between them," and desires Chapuys to write to the Regent to commission De Reulx to conclude with Wallop in that behalf, to whom the King will send like commission. The King can easily furnish men, being there and ready to go thither, so that both forces joined may give your enemies an overthrow, being the flower of their garrisons, and percase take some of their strongest holds before they can reinforce them. Require answer by bearer.
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, pp. 3. Endd. : Th'Emperor's ambassador.
R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No.42.] 2. Original letter of which the above is the draft. Dated Windsor, 10 Aug. 1542. Signed by Canterbury, Durham, Winchester, and Wriothesley.
French. Modern transcript, from the Vienna Archives, p. 1.
10 Aug.
R. O. [Ib. No. 47.]
596. Chapuys to the Queen Of Hungary.
Has just received the enclosed letter from the King's Privy Councillors, which requires a speedy answer. Is sending his secretary to the Privy Council to ascertain if anything can be done for the defence of Tourneham without waiting for the Queen's answer. London, 10 Aug. 1542.
French. Modern transcript, from the Vienna Archives, p. 1.
10 Aug.
R. O. [Ib. No. 44.]
597. Chapuys to [De Roeulx. (fn. 10) ]
"I received yesterday your favor of the 7th inst., and read also the copy of that addressed to the Governor of Guisnes of the same date." Has shown both to the King and his Councillors, who were so pleased with the contents that they will probably give assistance "to that country where you are." At least so these Councillors think, but they will bargain first to prevent the King being a loser. For the present they have asked me to write to the Queen to give you power to treat with the Governor of Guisnes, who will receive like powers. London, 10 Aug. 1542.
French. Modern transcript, from the Vienna Archives, p. 1.
10 Aug.
R. O. [Ib. No. 43.]
598. Chapuys to Charles V.
Wrote on the 20th ult. of the arrival of a secretary (fn. 11) of the king of France. Since then he and the French ambassador resident have gone to the King, when, by all accounts, they had a very cold reception, though the Ambassador told the Venetian Secretary they could not have had a better. The Secretary immediately left by water for Gravesend, accompanied by the Ambassador, who wanted to see the King's naval preparations. He instructed his colleague to tell Francis that the ships could not be ready before two months; but Chapuys knows that three or four of them are already at sea, and that in a week or two there will be 8 more, besides the galley of which Wyatt, it is thought, will be captain, and vice-admiral of the whole fleet. For further news encloses copy of his letter to the Queen of Hungary. London, 10 Aug. 1542.
French. Modern transcript, from the Vienna Archives, pp. 2.
10 Aug.
R. O. [Ib. No. 46.]
599. Chapuys to Granvelle.
He will see the news of this country by what Chapuys writes to the Emperor, and the copy of his letters to the Queen. His lordship, no doubt, knows those of the Low Countries from the Queen; but considering that, in this dangerous season, letters may miscarry, sends a summary. On 14 July Orleans laid siege to Dampvillers, which was soon carried by assault. The French made the most of their victory, publishing that Danvilliers was stronger than Thionville, which the Duke was to invest on the 25th or 26th following. Then Longueval and Martin van Rossen, with forces from Cleves and Gueldres, entered Brabant on the 15th. After ravaging the neighbourhood of Bos le Duc (Bois le Duc), they won Hocstrate, and on the 26th encamped in sight of Antwerp. That afternoon 5,000 Walloons made a sortie, and took two carts (of ammunition and artillery), a large number of cows, and some prisoners, an encouragement after the slight loss which the prince of Orange suffered the day before. On the 28th the enemy raised the siege, and went to Louvain, sacking and burning on the way, and on the 3rd or 4th inst. were near Louvain, and by letters from Antwerp of the 5th were expected to make an attack on that city. The Queen meanwhile is doing her utmost for the defence of the country.
On the side of Artois has letters from Du Roeulx that Vendome had attempted Tourneham, which was hardly defensible (bonne), and that La Montoyre was not yet finished. Du Roeulx says he would do his best without risking the small force under him; and that the French in Artois were very strong; also that the captain of Guisnes was willing to co-operate in the enterprise, which I have heretofore signified. (fn. 12) But I fear if anything happen to those two places the King's energy will cool. London, 10 Aug. 1542.
French. Modern transcript, from the Vienna Archives, pp. 3.
10 Aug.
[Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 45.]
600. Chapuys to Granvelle.
Just after closing and sealing this packet, received from the Privy Councillors the letter (fn. 13) of which a copy is enclosed. Is now preparing the departure of two messengers, the one to the Queen Regent and the other to this King's Council to induce him to send immediate help to Tourneham, as there is scarcely time to wait for the Queen's answer, and the communication mentioned in their letter. Forgot to mention in writing to the Emperor, that, since the commencement of the war, the Princess has been daily inquiring after the health of the Emperor and the Queen, lamenting their troubles. London, 10 Aug. 1542.
French. Modern transcript, from the Vienna Archives, p. 1.
10 Aug.
Kaulek, 447. (The wholetext.)
601. Marillac to Francis I.
The day on which he was to be at Windsor to communicate with the Privy Council, the Emperor's ambassador had had assignation to be there, and, when both appeared, Norfolk, as eldest and first in authority, declared that, war having arisen between Francis and the Emperor, great armies being assembled on both sides, they, as neighbours of both, had to be on their guard, and so the King their master had decided to make such preparation that he could prevent and resent any attack; and, as their subjects were ill-treated at sea by barks equipped for war roving upon their coasts, to the hindrance of their traffic, they were sending out their ships of war to protect navigation and preserve the immunity of their ports, roads, and franchises; and, likewise, as the King of Scotland had reviewed his people and taken order to have all his forces ready upon warning, they had decided to do the like; concluding that, as their master desired to live at peace, so he was resolved to endure no wrong, and the ambassadors were informed of this that they might write it to their masters. Thereupon the Emperor's ambassador having said what seemed good to him, which was no great thing, Marillac thanked them for so openly declaring their King's intention to remain neutral, and assured them that it was Francis's intention to preserve their subjects like his own, and no wise infringe their franchises, and he promised to write, as he had already done upon the message (propos) by the personage they lately sent to him.
Thinks that under the sweetness of these words of theirs, there is much poison hidden, for, in announcing their preparations by sea and land they make known that it is for war, as might be presumed from the preparations heretofore, and in specifying the cause they indicate sufficiently that it is against Francis and the king of Scotland, "pour autant que sur ce ilz causoient leurs subjectz estre sy mal traictez par mer." Having caused the said ambassador to withdraw, they specified to Marillac that the Normans gave them all these causes of complaint; that a ship of Dieppe having taken a Flemish hulk, carried ten or twelve Englishmen, who were in it, to Dieppe, which was intolerable; that another little ship of Dieppe had taken within their streams a hulk laden with salt belonging to their subjects; that ships of war were roving about the Isle of Wight near Anthonne, so that their subjects were afraid to traffic; that they would not permit ships of war to sojourn in their roads or ports, unless constrained to it by weather, nor to take Flemish ships which they had freighted with necessaries for Calais, such as men, wood, stone, or victuals. Replied promptly that the Englishmen takes to Dieppe had no cause for complaint, having been at once liberated, as appeared by the acts of the Admiralty Court, which they themselves showed, and those who took the Flemish ship could not put the Englishmen ashore in England without risk of losing their prize; that the ship taken at the mouth of their river was likewise Flemish, as well as the master and mariners, and those who took it could not think that the English had so soon bought it (for they did not keep it long), and at any rate their war ships recovered it without the French opposing them, and they kept the Dieppe crew prisoners at Dover, as pirates, although they showed by letters of the Vice-Admiral that they had only been six days at sea and had done no other damage than to the said Flemish ship, and therefore it was Marillac, not they, who had cause to complain of their maltreatment of those poor men of Dieppe; for the rest, to hinder French ships of war from tarrying upon these coasts was directly against the treaties, which expressly say that they may go, come, and remain at will, provided they do not exceed 100 fighting men (hommes de guerre); and finally that to save Flemish ships because freighted by Englishmen, besides being contrary to every observance of war, would permit the Flemings to hurt us and prevent our hurting them, for every Flemish ship would profess to be freighted by Englishmen, it being notorious that in times of war there is no merchandise of the Emperor's subjects which has not a false bill of lading (adveu) from those of London. In truth, to grant such requests would hinder all traffic by Francis's subjects and take away all means of hurting his enemies, and to make them is as much as to say that they seek a quarrel; and to this end they prepare the ten ships of war which have been equipped and will sail within 7 or 8 days. Their preparation by land, it is notorious, is to invade the King of Scotland, for the "Conte de Clerance," (fn. 14) with the fugitives of Scotland, (fn. 15) is despatched towards Barvich with 5,000 or 6,000 men, and Norfolk has said to Marillac that if need be he will be there. The ambassador of the said King, who came hither, remained eight days in Court unable to speak with the King, with such reception and treatment that, besides having a servant of his kept two days in prison, a place was prepared in a tower of Windsor in which to lock him up on pretext that he was only come to spy. However, in the end, these rigors were mitigated, and letters have been delivered on both sides for surrender of prisoners and reparation of excesses on the frontiers, "qui n'est que prtexte de l'amuser affin qu'on puisse surprandre les Escooys au despourveu." He was reproached with this last league made between France, Sweden, Denmark, and others, of which it was said that this traitor Cardinal of St. Andrew's was the cause, as also he had hindered the interview which was to have been last year at York. This the ambassador intimated to Marillac, by one of his men, having himself no opportunity because he is kept too closely (de trop court), and is not yet altogether despatched.
The above are the indications that the English will move, and with them are to be considered the particulars heretofore written, to which he has nothing to add but that he is just informed that Mr. Chenay, called milord Varden, (fn. 16) is to-day departed to levy a number of men in Kent to pass in haste to Guynes; by which people judge that some effort is to be made on Francis's frontiers.
French. Headed : [London,] 10 Aug. Marked as sent by Henry.
10 Aug.
R. O.
602. Francis I. to Henry VIII.
Matre Claude de l'Aubespine, one of his secretaries, has brought Henry's letter and made his declaration, showing that he is grieved, for the sake of Christendom, at the war between the Emperor and Francis, his friends. Need not repeat the causes which forced him to it, as Laubespine showed them amply. If the Emperor would repair the injuries he has done and restore what he detains, Francis would sooner choose Henry's mediation for an accord than any other. When the treaty with the king of Sweden, which is sent to the other princes joined in it to be signed, is sent back, Henry shall have a copy; and Francis hopes that he will enter it. Es[cript] a [Lyons] le xme jour d'aoust, l'an mvcxlij. Signed. Countersigned : Bochetel.
French, pp. 2. Injured by damp. Seal injured. Add. Endd.
St. P., IX. 120. Kaulek, 447. (The wholetext.) 2. Copy of the preceding from Marillac's letter book.
French.
10 Aug.
Kaulek, 446. (Abstract.)
603. Francis I. to Marillac.
Has received his of the 1st. The absence of the English ambassador, who had come to Lyons before, and with whom Francis wished first to speak, has prevented his replying sooner to his good brother's message by L'Aubespine. Does so now (copy enclosed), and Marillac shall present the letter and report his reception of it and his intentions, for, according to his ambassador, he has no wish to make war on Francis. Still Marillac must be vigilant. Marillac's news of Longueval is the first received here (because the roads are everywhere stopped), and he shall continue to report what he hears about that affair.
Has charged the duke of Vendosme to invade his enemies on the side of Flanders and Arthois, and destroy some little forts prejudicial to Terouenne. If this is spoken of Marillac shall assure the English that nothing will be done to their prejudice. Countersigned : Bochetel.
French. Headed : Lyons, 10 Aug.
[*** A modern transcript of the first half of this letter is in R.O. The rest is printed in full by Kaulek.]

Footnotes

  • n1. Down to this point the document is printed in a note in St. P. v. p. 211.
  • n2. Sic but redundant.
  • n3. These words underlined in the MS.
  • n4. George Cotes, S.T.P., who was bishop of Chester from 1554 to 1556.
  • n5. Bernard Grete.
  • n6. See No. 487, and compare the account of it already given in England on p. 306.
  • n7. Of Westminster.
  • n8. See Nos. 535, 539, and 551.
  • n9. From this point to the end the letter is printed in St. P., IX. 120.
  • n10. In the Spanish Calendar this letter is said to be addressed to Granvelle, but it is without doubt the letter sent to De Roeulx upon receipt of No. 595, and apparently accompanied the letter there referred to, in the footnote on p. 87, as addressed to Count Botulf, which name is, of course, a misreading of De Roeulx. Granvelle remained in Spain until the end of October.
  • n11. L'Aubespine.
  • n12. The enterprise, of course, is that of Montreuil, of which he wrote to Mary of Hungary on the 29th June, and to the Emperor on the 30th.
  • n13. No. 595.
  • n14. The Earl of Rutland. See Vol. XVI., p. 228 note.
  • n15. The Earl of Angus and his brother.
  • n16. That is, lord warden of the Cinque Ports.