Henry VIII: December 1542, 11-20

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

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'Henry VIII: December 1542, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 17, 1542, (London, 1900) pp. 655-674. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol17/pp655-674 [accessed 23 April 2024]

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December 1542, 11-20

11 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.C., 62.
1189. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 11 Dec. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Suffolk, Russell, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler, Riche, Baker. Business : Recognisance (cited) of Giles Harrison and Evan Llewellyn, of London, to answer touching certain beer seized by Baldwin Smith. Three letters written to Viscount Lisle, lord warden of the Marches, Sir Thos. Wharton and the earl of Anguisshe to have a "plott" made of Scotland and send it to the King.
11 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 196. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 253.
1190. Robert, Bishop Of Llandaff, to the Council.
This day, at 4 p.m., lord Scroope came to York with 20 Scots, prisoners, named in a schedule enclosed. One called Alex. Syncclar is sick at Darynton. Sir Hen. Sayville, Sir Thos. Wentworthe, and other gentlemen are here to conduce them to the King, and shall receive them to-morrow at 8 a.m. They will be at Court, or elsewhere as the King directs, on St. Thomas's Even or St. Thomas's Day. The King's palace at York, 11 Dec., 7 p.m. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : The President of the Council in the North to the Council, xjo Decembr. ao xxxiiijo.
12 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.C., 62.
1191. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Hampton Court, 12 Dec. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Suffolk, Russell, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, "etc." Business :Letter sent to Angus to repair hither.
[*** Next entry is 14 Dec.]
12 Dec.
R. O. St. P. IX., 231.
1192. German Soldiers.
"Instructions given by the King's Highness to his trusty and well beloved servant, Sir Thomas Seymour, knight, one of the gentlemen of his Grace's privy chamber, whom his Majesty sendeth, at this time, into Germany for the purposes following."
To hasten to Noremberg, where baron Heidik and another Almain baron called Flegesteyn appointed, this Christmas, to confer with him upon matters which, at his late being in Germany, he broke to Heidik, touching the entertainment of horsemen and footmen, of whom the King would have 2,000 and 3,000 respectively, always ready. Having delivered the King's letters and thanks for their good inclinations, he shall demand of Heidik what he has done since their departure; and if it appear that they have earnestly travailed in the matter, he shall demand how many men can be furnished, where levied, and when they can be brought to Calays, Breame, Lubeck, Hamburgh, or Holland, with the charges, wages, &c. He shall endeavour to persuade them to serve the King against all persons without exception, and learn whether they can procure others to do so.
The King's letters to Baron Adeck are signed above, as is his custom in writing to familiar servants, and those to Flegsdein signed beneath, as in writing to friends. Seymour shall explain this to them, adding to Flegsdein that the King trusts shortly to have him, too, as his familiar servant.
Draft, with corrections and final paragraph in Sadler's hand, pp. 13. Endd. : Instructions to Sir Thos. Seymour, despatched into Germany xijo Decemb. ao xxxiiijo.
12 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 198. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 254.
1193. Lisle, Tunstall and John Uvedale to Henry VIII.
According to the King's instructions, have caused a view to be taken of victuals here, and perceive by the certificates that all the grain will not suffice the country until Easter, nor past Candlemas with the garrison here. There is little hay left, so that the garrison horses are fed on straw, which is rotten, because "wet inned." Provision must, therefore, be sent to Hally Elande, Berwick, and Ailmouthe, with command to the purveyors not to sell it to merchants to bring hither, who would enhance the price; as two Newcastle merchants would do who have lately bought a ship of corn sent to Hally Elande for the garrisons, but Lisle has sent for them, intending to punish them for forestalling the King's provisions. Touching the prisoners taken on St. Bartholomew's Day, as they wrote, Bowes and Lassells are at St. Andrew's. Sir Cuth. Ratclif, as a servant coming from him, yesterday, reported, is at Glascoo in the Bishop's keeping. This servant said the Keterickes in the North parts were angry with the taking of their lord the earl of Glencarne, and would come and fetch him home; also that victuals were unusually dear, so that every meal cost him 4d., "which is four groats Scottish." The King sends for many who fled off the field, asks how they escaped, and says he will punish them for fleeing.
An espial says that the lord of Burnestone, who is in favour with the Cardinal, has returned from France with little comfort, "which myche pallyth the Scottes." This espial asked if the letters lately brought to Berwick by a woman were sent forth; for if not, and if the Englishman whose espial he is could get a safe conduct to receive letters, he would undertake to bring letters from the king of Scots to the King. This shows "that he is a counter spye, for the Englishman said that this spy might come into the King's chamber." Apparently, whatever countenance the king of Scots makes, "he would speak if ears were open to hear." Wrote, by report of a prisoner, that proclamation was made at Gedworth of the birth of a prince. Learn since that the Queen "was delivered before her time of a daughter, a very weak child and not like to live." Against next full moon, order shall be taken for defence. Alnwick castle, 12 Dec.
Remind him to furnish the treasurer of wars with money for the garrisons. Signed.
Pp. 4. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
12 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 201. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 255.
1194. Lisle to Henry VIII.
Espials report this day that the lord of Brentstone is come home out of France, and says he has brought no such comfort as, at his sanding, was expected. Wrote on the 8th to the Council of the birth of a prince on 30th Nov. last; and that a Scottish prisoner affirmed it was proclaimed at Jedworth on the 2nd inst. Some say it was a son and some a daughter, but all agree that the Queen is delivered and lies at Lithcoo. The earl of Anguishe's intelligence is that she is delivered long before her time and the child cannot live. The King returned from the West, after the conflict, to Tyntallen, where he has a mistress in the keeping of Oliver Synklar's wife, "and, by report, he setteth not much store by the Queen." Details conversation reported to him this morning between an Englishman named . . . . . ., (fn. 1) of whom he has much intelligence, and a Scottish man, who hinted that the king of Scots would send letters to the King if he had means to convey them, and wished to know whether the letters sent from the Scottish Council to the captain of Berwick by a woman had been conveyed. Declared that he himself would send no Scottish letters to the King after he had been so offended with their false promises. Said this thinking that the Scot looked for some counter intelligence, and it seemed best to leave them in suspense of the coming of the letter sent by the woman. Showed this to my lord of Durham (and they have touched upon it in their joint letter), but not the espial's name. Asks whether to hearken further to his intelligence, seeing that his man is apparently a counter spy. John Hume, lerd of Blackater, who was lately released, promised his King to do man marvellous things in England shortly. On Sunday last he came home to his own house, and declared to those who came to welcome him that he had authority to hang as many of them as would not rise with him at all hours to do harm in England.
Angus and Sir Geo. Douglas, who went to Newcastle to see their old acquaintance taken at the conflict, have reported conversations with them. Sir George, who seems to have waded further with them than his brother, says lord Maxwell and lord Flemyng agreed that the King might now demand what he would in Scotland, whether it were to refuse the league with France or any other thing, only reserving the Crown and title of King to their master; and they offered to bring this to pass if the King would license them to go into Scotland.
It is pity that Tyndale and Rydesdale have liberty to live so unchristianly, but now is no convenient time to correct them, considering how near they lie to the King's enemies, who are not their enemies, but are guided by them to rob the King's true subjects. Divers gentlemen of this country have secretly "patysed" with them, and, when a fray or cry is raised in the night, will not rise to the rescue. No perfect reformation will ever be had until the King has all that part of Scotland on this side the Frithe on the East and on this side Dunne Bretayne on the West. To take it would be "an acceptable deed before God, considering how brutely and beastly the people now be governed," and the effusion of Christian blood which has happened every 20 or 24 years, and ever shall until the marches are set to these limits. "O! what godly act should it be to your excellent Highness to bring such a sort of people to the knowledge of God's laws, the country so necessary to your dominions, by reason whereof so many souls should live also in quietness." As to a platt of all Scotland, for which the Council has written, it will hardly be gotten here; but the King has a Scottish physician named Cromer, dwelling in London, who has such an instrument, or can help to set it forth, and knows a Scottish doctor, learned in the civil law, who was banished out of Scotland by the Cardinal and the bishops two or three years past, and dwells in London, and who can do much in making such a platt. Hertford carried up a platt of the hither part of Scotland; and the writer will send another, with the castle and town of Edinburgh more better set forth, by next post.
His letter written jointly with my lord of Durham describes the state of the Borders and need of victuals. None of their neighbours (whom they keep waking) have made any rode since Lisle came, except a sort of Tyvedale thieves, whose captain was "one of them that rode so near your Grace's host continually, and railed upon the Englishmen, calling them heretics," and who also boasted that he had with his own hands slain a dozen white coats. Has this gentleman and fourteen of his fellows, who came in with 100 or 120 horses and were put to flight by 40 horses of this country. Once or twice Ridesdale men have guided in half a dozen Scots who have stolen a dozen or twenty beasts, "or such a trifle." If anything is attempted, it will be about the full of this moon. Begs the King to thank the earl of Anguishe, who is very diligent, and gets the best intelligence. Cumberland is not yet come. Alnwick castle, 12 Dec., midnight. Signed.
Pp. 7. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
12 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 209. B. M. Hamilton Papers. No. 256 (2).
1195. Sir Wm. Evers to the Council.
Has received their letter, and done his best to get information. Is told that the king of Scots was at Pebilles "at the setting forward of his host to the West March." After they were past, he went to Lowghemabone, 12 miles from the place of the encounter, until he heard how they sped. There pass not thirty slain and drowned, and about 1,000 taken prisoners, over eight score of whom are gentlemen of inheritance. As to the English prisoners in Scotland; Sir Robt. Bowis and Sir Roger Lasselles are at St. Andros in the Cardinal's governance, Sir Cuthbert Ratclif at Glascoe, in the Bishop's governance, Ric. Bowis and Thos. Slyngisbye, with the bp. of Murrey in Elkyn a Murraye, Sir John Witherington is come home, having in pledge his son and heir and his son-in-law, the heir of Fenwikes, John Herrone lies at Edmanstone with the lord there, and John Tempest lies at Hallydene with the lord of Sesforthe. Will keep the lord Warden informed of his news out of Scotland. Berwick castle, 12 Dec., 7 a.m. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
12 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 207. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 256 (1).
1196. Sir Wm. Evers to Lisle.
Cannot yet get perfect knowledge whether the Queen of Scots is delivered or no. Wrote to the lord Warden that was, of the passing of the larde of Burntstone into France by the West seas. He is now Come home, with small comfort. He has always been much in the Cardinal's favour. Trusts Angus has reported the coming home of George Hume of Wedderburne, and John Hume of Blaketter. Alex. Home shall come to Coldingham within these two days. Buckclewghe and the lord of Johnstone are also at liberty. Has received a letter from the Council, and encloses copy of his answer. Yesternight received his letter for the obtaining of a platt of Scotland, and will do his best. Berwick castle, 12 Dec., 7 a.m. Signed : Wyll'm Eure.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
12 Dec. R. O. 1197. Raids In Scotland.
The names of the townes that were burned in th'Est and Midle merches of Scotland.
Mordington, The Craslade, Lanerton, Mordington Milles, Paxton, Etherington Husbandton, Etherington Cotton, Etherington Towre, Fyshike, Horneden town, Horneden kirke, Upsiplington, Whetterigg grange, Nyne Welles, Long Huton, Huton Hawll, Haymouthe, Haymouthe Milles, Eaton town, Eaton milles, Hitton, Hilton, Greate Fulden, Litle Fulden, Huton Husbandton, Huton Cotton, Browton, Owteset graunge, Blaket Towre, Greate Smelam, Litle Smelam, Kelsawe, Grenerigge, Long Ednam, Litle Ednam, Sprocston graunge, Sprocston town, Midlesyde graunge, Hawden, Sprokeson.
ii. "The names of the townes that were burned in the West merches of Scotland.
Rodnopp, Ryskinnop, Alsopp, Mikethopp, Rednal, Gillamby Rigge, Fyngland, Cloughhedes, 80 houses and much corn in Dounefres, certain houses in Sedworthe, certain houses in Aywyck, Rowstede, Mykell Estome, certain houses in Bramxham, certain houses in Anerdall, the Cassill Hill, Rey Hilles, a tower of Reynold Jerdanes, Hutton.
iii. "The names of the townes brent sith the departure of th'armye."
[Giving in parallel columns, 1st the date and doers of the enterprise, 2nd, the place or places burnt, and 3rd, the numbers taken of prisoners, oxen, horses, etc. For example :
"Primo Novemb. Robert Forster per mand. Thome Wharton, militis. The Castell Hiles. Rehilles. toke iiij. prysonners xl. oxen, ij. horses, moche insight."
"Quinto Novemb. Percyval Grame per mand. Thome Wharton, militis. The town of Maverdale called Huton. toke xx. kyen and brent in a house lx. note."
Eod. Beaucastle. The house of Reb Scot of Halawatch. xvj. note."
The following is a complete list.]
1 Nov. (by Robt. Forster at Sir Thos. Wharton's command), the Castellhilles and Rehilles. 2 Nov. (by Robt, Hedrington at Wharton's command), the pile of Renyan. 3 Nov. (by Sir Ralph Evre with the Berwick garrison), two parts of Chirnsyde and two steads on this side of it. 5 Nov. (by Percival Grame, at Wharton's command), the town of Maverdale, called Huton; (by Beaucastle) the house of Reb Scot of Halawatch. 7 Nov. (by Edw. Story, at Wharton's command), Huton Hill; (by Foster) Cromokhilles; (by Jac a Musgrave) Rowle. 8 Nov. (by Thos. Wharton, son of Sir Thos. W., with Thos. Dacre) Stablegorton and all the steads in Escheate. 13 Nov. (by Sir Ralph Evre, Sir Wm. Bulmer, Ralph Bulmer with the garrison of Barwyke), "Coldingham with the abbey, Reston with other steads thereabouts, the pile of Ayton, taken with the barmkyn with divers villages and steads thereabouts burnt." 9 Nov. (by the Berwick garrison) certain houses in Aymouth.
By Sir Thos. Hilton, Sir Ralph Evre, Sir Wm. Bulmer, Robt. Colingwod, John Horsley (no date given), the town of Clifton, Haihope, Yatham, Kirkeyatham, Prymssyd, Cookshawte, Thirlestown, Femerden, Bonfete, the steads of Primssyd Yates, Prymssyd milnes, Clifton Cote, Chewtres, Stangford, Overgraydon, Nethergraydon, Wynnybyes, Dandy Yong of the Woodside, the Fauside, the Lough Tower, Hollabred Holme and the pile of Barars ("these towns kept 140 ploughs but the cattle was before withdrawn by some secret knowledge, which the Scots had of th'enterprise").
15 Nov. (by Geo. Heron with Tyndal and Riddisdale) Abbottes Rowle and Harwood. 25 Nov. (by the captain of Norham and Thos. Suttill) Hilton. 27 Nov. (by the captain of Norham with Suttle and the constables of Etel and Forde), Batrigeside and Swynton; (by Sir Ralph Evre, Sir Geo. Douglas, Sir Wm. Bulmer, and the porter of Berwick) a great town called Wedencrawe, Est Reston, West Reston, Whitterigge and Bastilrigge. 29 Nov. (by Sir Ralph Evre, Geo. Bowes, and Ralph Bulmer), the abbey and town of Caldstreme, Swenton and Swythemore.
"Towns and villages, 111; prisoners, 370; sheep, 4,240; horses, 400; oxen and kyne, 1,018 head.
Besides the great overthrow upon the West Marches, at the which there were 3,000 horses taken."
1 Dec. (by Wm. Buckton, Clement Mustchaunce, and others of the Berwick garrison) Raynton. 3 Dec. (by Thos. Carlisle and others of the said garrison), "Whikeswood, Raynton, Edington, the barmkyn with vj. houses brent," and Fosterlad. 4 Dec. (by "Clavering, Robert a Collingwodde's son, Jerrard Selby with their servants, to the number of xl persons at the most"), "rescued a booty of prisoners and cattle taken by the Scots in Northumberland being in number vjxx." 6 Dec. (by Geo. Heron), Dolfinston; (by John Carr of Warke), Stephen Davison's houses and all his corn. 7 Dec. (by Robt. Lisle, the King's servant, and 20 persons), the 1. Linton's house and town "and all their corn." 12 Dec., Stephen Davison, young Stephen, his nephew, and Wat Yong taken.
Pp. 9. Endd. : Names of the townes burned by th'army, etc., in Scotland.
Harl. MS. 1,757 f. 315. B. M. 2. Another copy of the above, so incorrectly made as to be in places quite unintelligible, headed "Names of towns and villages burned when th'army was in Scotland."
Pp. 6. Endd. : "Articles delivered by the Fr. ambassador touching the differences upon frontiers against Scotland." Also endd. in Wotton's hand (fn. 2) : "Recepi 28 Octobr. 1553, apud la Ferte Milun."
13 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 205. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 256.
1198. Lisle to the Council.
Encloses letters from the captain of Berwick with intelligence out of Scotland. Have last night taken Stephen Davyson, who has done more harm to the King's subjects than any Scot in Scotland, with his nephew Young Stephen and Watt Yonge. Certain of Lisle's men going to make a rode into Scotland met these gallants coming for the like purpose into England, and, "being a great wind and very dark, they were one upon another before they wist." The hardiest of the Scots tarried and the rest escaped in the darkness.
Begs for money shortly, as he and Durham have jointly written to the King. Will, upon Cumberland's coming on Friday next, send an account of the charges for this month; and of the order taken for such victuals as remain at Berwick and elsewhere. Alnwick castle, 13 Dec., at evening. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
13 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 211. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 257.
1199. Sir Wm. Evers to Lisle.
At 6 p.m. on the 12th, his espials reported that the Cardinal is not so much in the King of Scots' favour as he was, for he was the chief procurer of the journey into the West Marches, and, being left with Murraye in Haddington, the slaying of the King's herald, in the meantime, is judged to have been by his sufferance. In Edinburgh it is said that the Cardinal will go either to France or Rome before Candlemas, and trusts the king of Scots "shall have party enough by the spring of the year as well forth of Denmark as other places." In Scotland it is judged that Maxwell and other great men now taken prisoners would rather become Englishmen. Likewise the common bruit is that Geo. Hume of Wedderburne, and John Hume of Blaketter, "shall grow great with the earl of Angus and George Douglas." All adjoining the Borders are in great fear, and no honest men lie there, except in strongholds such as Fastcastell, the Towre of Dunglase, Byllye, Dunbare, and the vaults of Coldingham church. On Saturday and Sunday, 9th and 10th inst., was proclaimed in Haddington and Dunse that all should rise with fray or beacons, both in Lowdeane and the Marse, and come to Hume, Wedderburne or Blaketter, or the place of the fray. No Scots come to Berwick except to borrow prisoners or pay ransoms. Berwick castle, 13 Dec., 7 a.m. Signed : Wyll'm Eure.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
13 Dec.
R. O. St. P. IX., 233.
1200. Bonner to Henry VIII.
Wrote on the 11th and 24th Aug., 9th, 14th, and 20th Sept., and 4th, 10th, 29th, and 31st Oct., by way of Bilbao, Geanes, and by Grandvele, who was departing to Italy, and thence to the king of Romans, Germany, and Flanders. Wrote also, by Mons. de Falles, to my lord of Westminster, 3 Nov., and sent, 16 Nov., letters from Barcelona to be conveyed by Grandvele, who was still detained at Roses by weather and fear of 22 French galleys lying in wait for him in Marsilia. Wrote of Prince Philip's mean reception in Barcelona, 8 Nov., the Emperor's fortifying of those parts, the departure of the Cardinal Visewe of Portugal, on the 14th, and of the duke of Alberquerque towards Rome, the execution of Spaniards at Barcelona for conspiring with Moors and Turks to destroy Valentia and Andalusia, and the departure of the Emperor and Prince towards Valentia. Accordingly, 21 Nov., the Emperor departed from Barcelona, and, after much delay by floods, came to Valentia, 4 Dec., and lodged at the viceroy's palace outside the city. Next day, the Prince entered and lodged at the Emperor's palace, but the reception and demonstrations of gladness were nothing great. Following the Emperor in this journey, was told, near Monviedro, alias Saguntum, 4 leagues from Valentia, that there were letters for him in Valentia. Sent for them the same night, and, having deciphered them, repaired to Valentia, where he saw Dr. Bushot, who occupies the room of Mons. de Arras, now absent with Grandvele, and one of the principal secretaries called Joyse, who reported their news out of England, and the departure of Mons. de Currier into Flanders. Complained to them of their coldness in treating this amity, and rehearsed the persuasions contained in the said letters. They said they trusted that, upon Mons. de Currier's opening the matter to the Regent and Council in Flanders, it should be brought to good pass, for they would do their best here and no fault should be found in the Emperor.
The Emperor and Prince depart in two days to Alcala de Henares, where are the Infantes, sending the Court to Madrill. After Christmas the Emperor will come to Madrill and Valladolid. He left many of his horses and gentlemen at Barcelona, and sent his jewels to Saragosa, an argument that he will not tarry in Castilla next year, but return to Saragosa and Barcelona. Valentia, 13 Dec. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo. Docketed by Bonner : The copie sent by Mannyng.
13 Dec.
R. O.
1201. Bonner to the Council.
Upon deciphering the letters lately received from them, concerning proceedings im England with Mons. de Currier, he set forth the matter as expressed in his letters now sent to thie King. Valentia, 13 Dec. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
14 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.c., 63.
1202. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 14 Dec. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Suffolk Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler, Riche, Baker. Business :Letter sent to Savell and Wentworth to direct their journey so that they might be here with the Scottish prisoners on Tuesday next, each prisoner wearing, at their entry, a red St. Andrew's Cross. Letter written to the lord President in the North touching his repair to Newcastle and his licence to be absent from Parliament for that purpose. Letter received from Wharton, declaring the whole order of the late conflict.
14 Dec.
Caius College MS. 597, 9. 203. St. P. IX., 236.
1203. Paget to Henry VIII.
Hearing that the Emperor would immediately embark for Italy, and expecting easily to reduce the Rochellois, the French king intended to go straight to Pontainebleau for Christmas. Now he has intercepted two letters passing between Italy and Spain, one of which was triumphantly read at his table (showing that the Emperor intends not yet to leave Spain, but to send Granvelle), and finds the Rochellois very sturdy; and so he remains hereabouts. Gives history of the dispute with the Rochellois and other salt makers. Cardinal Sadolet has departed rebus infectis to Carpentras. At leaving, he delivered a brief from the Bishop of Rome, which the King accepted with "strange countenance." The King refused to make Signor Horatio captain of the men of arms Signor John Paulo had; and a courier going to Spain, with letters to revoke the Legate there, could scant get passport. The Bishop of Rome is suspected to be Imperial, but is holden up by a court of Cardinals about this Court. This courier taken last carried letters not only from Naples, Milan and Genes, but from Rome, from the Bishop himself to the Emperor, as Paget heard of one who arrived yesternight from Rome, and had come straight by Marseilles from the Count of Anguillara. One has even now embarked and gone to the Turk from hence, and lately the Prior de Capis returned from Algiers; and now "we" say that the Turk comes next spring both by land and sea, and has sent to Venice to accord us with the Venetians, wherein the bp. of Rome travaileth much, and that for disclosing the counsel of the Signory to the Emperor, Signor Francisio and Signor de Justiniani, of the houses of Capelli and Quirini, are in hold. Henry will know of this from his agent in Venice; and, from the ambassador in Spain, the Cardinal of Portugal's treatment by the Emperor, which, the Nuncio here says, was very strange. Gives war reports that the Spaniards have invaded Bayonne and destroyed St. John de Luces, Dannebault has recovered Carmagnola, Anguillara has captured a rich Spanish ship from the Levant, besides the two brigantines that carried the couriers (whereby are known all the secrets of Rome, Venice, Naples, Marquis de Guasto, Hungary, Genoa, and the Emperor's espials at Constantinople). Other proceedings of Dannebault in Piedmont and reinforcements sent thither including Baron de Hadeckes band. De Langey is fallen very sick on his way hither. De Longeval was coming hither, but was countermanded upon news of a mutiny of the lanceknights in Luxembourg, whose captains that were here are also sent after him. One Richier, of the King's chamber, went two days ago to Denmark, to move them to succour the Scots, or else, more probably, to know the state of Denmark and Sweden, for an insurrection in Sweden is rumored. On St. Andrew's Day, Francis observed the ceremonies of the Emperor's Order just as he did those of Henry's Order on St. George's Day. The Queen has sent a gorgeous litter to bring the duchess of Bar to Court.
Encloses copy of the letter he wrote on the 2nd, by one of the Admiral's servants touching the ships detained there; also two letters from the Scot (fn. 3) at Rome. Marillac returns from England these holydays, to be replaced by Morveilly, who passed through England from Scotland last year. Here is an Italian called count Bernardo (fn. 4), esteemed very skilful in ordering a camp when Humieres was lieutenant in Piedmont, but now out of favour because affectioned to the Constable. He offers to serve Henry. Likewise the lieutenant's son of Xainctes has offered a revolt of Xainctes and Rochelle to Henry.
The Queen of Navarre believes she is with child and keeps at home. The Dolphin, for his ill success at Perpignan, has been this fortnight sick of melancholy at Angoulesme, and the King is gone to Cognac, where Vendme arrived three days ago, and had great cheer. Commissions are just issued to charge the clergy with two dismes this year. It is muttered that 50,000 crs. sent to the duke of Cleves have been, intercepted by the Burgundians. The Portuguese ambassador says his King has executed the count of Pontalaigre and his son for intelligence with the Cardinal. (fn. 5)
Immediately upon Desformes' arrivail here, which was two days after Paget wrote last month, the French king reported openly at table that the army under Norfolk in Scotland was overthrown with loss of 16,000 slain. "He said he had it of a Bryttayne. A like thing indeed, because your Majesty had no ships on the sea to keep the passages." That night Desformes came to supper, and Paget taxed him with the report, which he denied, and, on Paget'a showing him that as he knew the unlikelihood of such an event he ought to say the truth, he has since denied his Sovereign's report. Now Nicholas the courier has brought the joyful news of that matter of Scotland; which has almost cured Paget of a bad attack of sciatica. He also brought letters from the Council containing the conference between Henry and the French ambassador touching the discourse between Cardinal Touraon and Paget. Thanks the King profusely for taking his doings so favourably hitherto.
On Sunday night received his letter (fn. 6) showing the injuries committed against him by the Scottish king, with other writings and instructions. Sent next day to Court, five leagues hence, and obtained audience for Tuesday, after dinner. After greeting the French king, said he was commanded to declare the great outrages which the Scottish king, contrary to honour and the natural kindness of a nephew towards his uncle, had done against Henry; and desired him to hear the matter indifferently. Then detailed how, in return for Henry's fatherly affection to the Scottish king during his minority, James had entertained Henry's traitors, sent messages for an interview, and meanwhile invaded England, detained Henry's subjects prisoners without ransom, and, finally, cruelly slaughtered Henry's herald. (fn. 7) Describes further conversation verbatim. The French king replied with a sigh, that he was sorry to hear of this enmity between uncle and nephew, and yet he could abandon neither, for he was bound to aid each in defence against invasion; that his son agreed not to the interview seemed reasonable, as he was required to come as a vassal, which none of his predecessors had done, and there were other reasons against it; these matters seemed not sufficient to cause war, and he thought Paget had more to say. Paget answered, showing that if these reasons were insufficient, although better than those of Francis's present quarrel with the Emperor, he knew not how any war could be lawful, and as to defence upon invasion, he knew not what treaties Francis had with James, but, by his invasion of England with over 100 men, he was avoided out of the treaty between Henry and Francis; Henry desired him, therefore, to remain indifferent, as he himself had been in this matter between the Emperor and him. Francis said that as for the Emperor, the case was different; for Henry was bound to aid both for defence and invasion, and not having done so the pension was not due. Paget said that was another matter, and had been answered. "Nay, by St. Mary hath it not (quod he). I have had no answer to it yet." Paget answered that when the Emperor invaded France, Francis was contented to discharge that article to have a delay of payment of the arrears then due. "No, by St. Mary, was I not contented (quod he). Shew me that in writing. I can show you in writing (quod he) that the King, my brother, was then bound to do that he did not." "I am sure (quod I) both your ambassadors at that time will not deny that that I say." "By God's body (quod he) Monsr. de Terbes will deny it, and Monsr. de Winchestre cannot say the contrary if he say truly." Paget said he was sure Winchester could discharge himself, but he had no commission to dispute that matter, and desired an answer to his present commission. Francis said he might not abandon his son; he was sorry for the controversy, and would be loth to see his son ruined for so small matters, but as yet had not been asked for aid. Paget said that Francis himself had declared the murder of a herald to be a great matter, and Francis replied that he might not abandon his son, but would be glad to help to make peace. Congnac, 14 Dec. 1542.
Letter-book copy in the hand of Paget's clerk, pp. 13.
14 Dec.
Caius College, MS. 597, p. 216. St. P. IX., 246.
1204. Paget to Henry VIII.
In accordance with the King's command contained in a letter from Wriothesley, has not in his other letter declared the whole conference with this King, nor described his manner, which was other than it was wont to be. Gives the conversation verbatim. To the "querimonye" against the Scottish king, Francis listened with a sour countenance, and replied with vehemence about the unreasonable demand of homage, alleging his chronicles of France. He denied that his ambassador had written of 10,000 men slain by the Scots, but said a gentleman (fn. 8) of Scotland had reported that, besides doing homage, the Scottish king was required to leave all other amities; he complained that his ambassador was not suffered to speak with the Scottish ambassador. Paget replied that it would be strange if in war time the ambassador even desired to speak with the Scottish ambassador apart, but before that he was always at liberty to do so. "What call you at liberty" (said Francis), "when the Scottish ambassador had 40 or 50 waiting upon him that no man should speak with him?" Francis then said he saw Henry meant to crush Scotland this year, and make war in France next, and had sent 6,000 men of war to Calais and Guisnes under pretence of workmen, which had compelled him to double his garrison at Arde. Paget replied denying this, hinting at the bad offices of the French ambassador in spreading such reports, which practically accused Henry of dissimulation. Francis said he knew when the men were shipped and their numbers. Paget said he would not dispute it, although he knew the contrary, but he never expected that Francis would so mistrust his good brother, of whose sincerity he had such experience, and defend his unkind nephew against him.
Francis then became much calmer (for his language hitherto was audible to all in the chamber), and in softer speech protested his love for Henry, and how he had sought his amity in the matter of marriage. Paget said the unreasonable demand for a million stopped that. Francis said there was cause, for besides Madame Mary losing her place in succession it was to end all controversies and a great part of it was only due upon condition. Paget suggested that if he would come to reason the marriage might still be made. Francis then desired him to write to Henry that he desired his amity, and would "come down to reason so as he will mount to the same;" adding that they were both great kings and well stricken in years, and, for the sake of peace, let them settle a reasonable sum for the marriage, and let the pension continue, and let them and the king of Scots meet this spring, and join all three together, and what exceptions Henry would make for the Emperor Francis would make for the Pope. Paget said his advice was not to intricate the amity, but meet alone without the king of Scots. Francis said that at least he should be joined with them "in a trinity, as the Pope, the Emperor and the king of Portugal be, whose sister, the Queen my wife's daughter, the Emperor now laboureth to have in marriage for his son, with whom he shall have 400,000 ducats in ready money; which I might have if I would renounce th'increase that is come of it." Paget asked what sum he would descend to, and Francis answered that if his good brother would mount to reason he should see that Francis did not "set by money."
Leaves Henry to form his own judgment upon the above, which Paget had some ado to write, because this King has some impediment in his speech, as Henry knows. Apparently he desires to join with England but not leave out the Scottish king, and by the marriage thinks to have aid, directly or indirectly, against the Emperor. Begs pardon if he spoke otherwise than he should, for he could not but speak out in defence of Henry's cause; and although Francis be a great king in respect of the world, he seemed not so in respect of Henry, and, "in temperance and reason," under some other meaner princes with whom Paget has heretofore treated. Congnac, 14 Dec. 1542.
Letter-book copy in the hand of Paget's clerk, pp. 7.
15 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.C., 63.
1205. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 15 Dec. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Norfolk, Suffolk, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler, Riche, Baker. No business recorded.
[*** The entry for 16 Dec. records neither attendance nor business.]
15 Dec. R. O. 1206. H. Lord Maltravers to Henry VIII.
About two months past, a Frenchman brought hither a ship laden with "smalle" French wines, and desired licence to convey them by river to Arde. Told him that the King maintained the river for his own affairs and not for a common passage, and such things must be conveyed from Boloyn by land. He then desired liberty to utter the wines here; which was freely granted, and they remain here still "unuttered, by reason they be but small hedge wines, and at vjl. sterling the tun." Now, Guisnes pursuivant, being sent by Sir John Wallop to Mons. de Byes with letters, has been told by De Byes that a French merchant, who brought wines for Arde to Calais, is commanded to sell them at Calais or return with them, and he (De Byes) desires answer from the writer in the matter, for if it be so "he would stop all the victuallers of Bolonoyes from bringing victual into this Pale." Asks how to behave in case De Byes puts in use this froward determination. Cales, 15 Dec.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
16 Dec.
Venetian Calendar (Brown), V. 115.
1207. Hieronimo Zuccato to the Council Of Venice.
Is told, under pledge of great secrecy, that lord Maxwell, being a Lutheran and disagreeing with Cardinal Beaton, who for many years has ruled the King and realm of Scotland, caused this rout of the Scots, and the capture of himself and others, by calling some other noblemen and galloping with them to the rear, in order, as he said, to order the battle. The rear guard, attributing this to fear, ran away, whereupon, to conceal his treachery, he with his own hands killed three or four of the fugitives, and then advanced with a few followers, "as already stated." London, 16 Deo. 1542.
Original at Venice.
16 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 213. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 258.
1208. Sir Hen. Savell and Sir Thos. Wentworth to the Council.
Received the Council's letters at Newark on the 15th, at 11 p.m. The earl of Glencarne, lord Olyvant and divers others are "crased," so that it will be late on Tuesday night before they reach London. Beg to know by bearer where they shall be lodged there, and how to use any prisoner who may fall sick and be unable to travel. Enclose a schedule of the names of servants attending the lords aforesaid. Newark-upon-Trent, 16 Dec. Signed : Henry Sayvylle k. : Thom's Wentworth, k.
P. 1. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
ii. Schedule above referred to :Wm. Kenetie, servant to the earl of Castell, and John Nesebie, servant to the earl of Glencarne, ransomed prisoners. Hen. Shawe, servant to Sir Thos. Wharton, appointed to wait on lord Maxwell. Geo. Pott, servant to Thos. Dakers, appointed to wait on lord Olyvant.
P. 1.
16 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 218. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 259 (1).
1209. Sir George Douglas to Lisle.
Is informed by his espial this morning that a pursuivant brought the king of Scots' letters to lord Hume and all the gentlemen of the Mars to furnish their houses with victuals and keep as many good men and horse as they could. Sons or brethren of the gentlemen who are prisoners in England are commanded to keep their houses, and be ready to rise, at "skrys or larumes," to attend George, lord Hume. Hears that like letters are gone into Tyvedall, and that the lard of Sesforthe and great part of the Cares are commanded to "lygg in celsay" (lie in Kelso). Like letters are gone to Annerdell, and to Master Maxwell and the lord of Johnston to be head of that country, and "lygg" in Dunfreyss and Lowghmaben. The Scots' queen is lighter of a daughter. The King fears for his realm and would seek peace, but knows his promises are not to be trusted, and is so abashed that he knows not what to do. He makes more moan for Oliver Singular than for all the great men taken. The said Oliver was chief captain of the army and lost the King's banner there. Those the King makes rulers of his borders he has kept in prison seven or eight years, and has "porposid" divers times to have smitten off their heads, has taken their goods and slain their friends. That he should make them his principal captains shows in what necessity he stands. Lisle should lay strong garrisons now, in the light of this moon, have his watches kept and beacons ready, and place appointed for the country to assemble if the Scots come in; then "if God send us the victory Scotland is 'downa' We may have it for the taking." Will send word as soon as the lord of Wetherburne and his uncle come home from Edynbrowghe. Berwyk, 16 Dec. Signed : George Dowgles.
Pp. 2. Add. Sealed. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
16 Dec.
Add. MS. 23,593 f. 148. B. M. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 83.]
1210. Charles V. to Paul III.
Received from the Nuncio his brief of the 12 Nov., again urging him to treat of peace with Francis, lest the Turk should invade Germany, and suggesting that a time and place should be fixed for the negociations before the prelates of the Emperor's dominions start for Trent, for the Council. Commends his desire for peace, but the Pope knows how often Francis has broken faith, and what sacrifices he himself has made to attain peace. Needs only add one argument, viz., that he sees no reason for trusting the man who never fulfils a promise, and therefore thinks the proposed interview would be useless. If the Pope thought the Emperor could easily cross to Italy from Barcelona, where he lately was, must inform him that he has been obliged to remove, and has received the Pope's letters here when he is called to go to Castile and see to the affairs of that kingdom; so he does not see how the interview can be accomplished. Is still, however, as much as ever inclined to peace, and to repel the invasions of the Turk; and the Pope knows how much he desires a Council. Desires credence for the Marquis of Aguilar. Valencia, 16 Dec. 1542.
Lat. Modern copy, pp. 3.
17 Dec. Dasent's A.P.C., 64. 1211. The Privy Council.
Meeting at Westm., 17 Dec. Present : Chancellor, Suffolk, Winchester, Westminster, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Sadler, Riche, Baker, Dacres. Business :Letter sent to Savell and Wentworth, to signify how the Scottish prisoners were lodged by the way, and which of them lie together, that their lodging here might be appointed accordingly. Read letters from lord Lisle and the bp. of Durham to the King, touching the taking of Stephen Davison, &c., thieves of Teviotdale.
17 Dec.
R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 84.]
1212. Chapuys to the Queen Of Hungary.
Since his preceding letter of the 8th inst., has twice sent covertly to solicit the King's commissioners and deputies for some answer and resolution upon what was in communication. The first time, the day after the date of his preceding letters, they sent him word that as the King was moving about hunting, they had been unable to make a complete report, but would in three or four days intimate the King's intention. Yesterday Wriothesley told his man that there was no place to talk long because the French ambassador's secretary was present, who, as Wriothesley said, was soliciting an affair so instantly that he left the Council no rest. Doubts that the English are seeking only to temporise, waiting to see the success of the Emperor's affairs there; for at the very opening of the game they will be unwilling to have to contribute for defence against Cleves and Holstein, especially when they need money for the enterprise of Scotland, which the King shows that he has at heart. Thinks also that there will be no way of inducing him to enter war and make invasion next summer against the French; for the deputies, at last communication, in place of insisting as formerly that the common invasion should be before 1 July, proposed that the time should not be fixed but left to the arbitrament of the Princes. The Scots, not content with the first beating, lately entered this realm to the number of 69 horse, to rob and spoil, but, in their return, were waylaid by 40 Englishmen, who recovered the booty and slew and took half of them. Being unable to avenge themselves otherwise, the Scots have, near Dombart castle, killed a herald of this King, called Sombreset, in his return from the king of Scots; which is not the thing to extinguish the fire now lighted. These successes have rejoiced the King, who, since he learnt the conduct of his last wife, has continually shown himself sad, and nothing has been said of banquet or of ladies; but now all is changed, and order is already taken that the Princess shall go to Court at this featst, accompanied with a great number of ladies; and they work day and night at Hampton Court to finish her lodging. It is possible that amid these festivities the King might think of marrying, although there is yet no bruit of it.
French, pp. 2. Modern transcript from Vienna, headed : 17 Decembre 1542.
17 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 216. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 259.
1213. Lisle and Tunstall to Henry VIII.
Have this day despatched to him a servant of George Douglas with strange news of the death of the king of Scots, whom Douglas desired sent to the King and his brother, that his brother might be first bringer of the news. Sir George desired advice what to do if his friends in Scotland wrote to him to come home and occupy holds or houses which his brother had there. Said they had no commission to advise therein, and he has written to his brother to move the King in the matter. Sir George says that, after the daughter lately born, the next heir to the Crown is the earl of Arren. He is a bastard, born while his father's first wife, who had dwelt in house with him 20 years, was still living, and born of the second wife, who was his leman. He is cousin german to the Cardinal, who will take his part. The earl of Morton, called Duglasse, is next inheritor, and about him they (Sir George and his brother) should bear some rule; and after him the earl of Bowghan, called Steward. This last is of the heir male, and the other two of the heir general. Sir George said "Arran was but a simple man, and th'other were but fools, so that the strongest of the field were like to obtain the Crown."
Yesterday sent the King's letter to the king of Scots by John Heron's chaplain, with charge to deliver it only to the King, and not to the Council, so that, if these news be true, they trust to receive it safe again. Alnwick castle, 17 Dec., 4 p.m. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
17 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 220. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 260 (1).
1214. Sir George Douglas to Lisle.
Came to Berwick at 8 o'clock, and there found the man he showed Lisle of, called Simon of Penanghawe, whose news is that the king of Scots sickened and took his bed on the 6th inst., and died on Thursday, the 15th, at midnight. "All this time he did rage and cry out, and spake but few wise words, and so departed much according to the life that he lived in this world." The lords purpose to keep his body secret, for they hope for money from France, and fear the French king would not send it if he knew the King was dead. Thinks the King might let the French king know of his death, although he (Sir George) thinks the French king not disposed to give much money but only fair words, as in times past. Reminds him of his advice to provide a ship or two forth of Newcastle.
The great men of Scotland are convened in Edinburgh, and purposed to choose four governors, viz, Arren, Murray, Huntley, and Argyll; "the Cardinal to be governor of the Princess and chief ruler of the Council." The Cardinal and Arren are cousins, Argyll has married Arren's sister, Murray has married Argyll's sister; so that these four are bound together, and would have Huntley bound with them. Lisle shall be advertised of the ships, as he desired. The king of Scots left no will. His money is esteemed at 100,000 cr., "and he is well plated." Men think the governors will use this money for the war. Thinks Lisle should command the captains of Berwick and Norhome to stay their men until the King's pleasure. Berwick, 17 Dec., 2 a.m.
"The Princess of Scotland, as I am informed, is a very weak child." Signed : George Dougles.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
18 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.C., 64.
1215. The Privy Council.
Meeting at St. James's, 18 Dec. Present; Hertford, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Browne, Wriothesley, Sadler. Business : Letter sent to Savell and Wentworth, touching the order of the entry of the Scottish prisoners into London.
18 Dec.
R. O.
1216.to Gates, Bourchier and Harman [of the Privy Chamber].
"Right well beloved Mr. Gaites, Mr. Bucher, Mr. Har[m]an, in my most heartiest wise I recommend me unto your masterships." Begs them to move Lord Parre to speak to the lord Chancellor and Mr. Dakers to make an end in the suit between the writer and the lord Chancellor's servant. A verdict was given on the matter in the Guild Hall before the Lord Mayor of London, but the Chancellor's servant has troubled him ever since. Cannot sue him at the common law, because he is my lord Chancellor's servant. Greenwich, 18 Dec. 34 Henry VIII.
P. 1.
18 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 222. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 260.
1217. Lisle, Cumberland, and Tunstall to Henry VIII.
Enclose a letter which Lisle has this day received from Sir George Douglas, confirming the news sent yesterday, by Sir George's servant and by their letters, of the death of the king of Scots, and containing many points meet to be well considered. The man that brought the news to him yesternight at Berwick was sometime his servant, called Simon Penanghawe, and was in favour with the king of Scots. The day before his coming to Berwick he sent a trusty friend to certify these news to Sir George, who, thereupon came hither to Alnwick and returned to Berwick the same night. Wrote yesterday that the treasurer of wars, Mr. Uvedale, was unfurnished with money to pay the garrisons, being 2,000 men, and costing 2,034l. 13s. 4d., besides the diets of the Warden and the earl of Cumberland. After paying conduct money to the men who depart home and coats to the new, Uvedale will have little money left. Alnwick castle, 18 Dec., 3 p.m. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
18 Dec.
Original Letters, I. 228 (Parker Soc).
1218. Richard Hilles to Henry Bullinger.
Thanks him for his books. Literary and theological comments. Was persecuted in London, after the beheading of Queen Anne [Boleyn], till he went abroad, for not giving money for wax candles in the church before the crucifix and the sepulchre. His neighbours at first discussed the matter with him in a friendly way (arguments reported), but when a change was expected they menaced him and laid an information against him before the bp. (fn. 9) But the bp. urged forbearance, expecting a happy day which he did not live to see; for, harassed by Cromwell and others on suspicion of not having aided the King in abolishing the Pope and destroying the monasteries, he died worn out with grief. The year but one before Hilles left England, public orders were sent to the bps. not to allow wax candles before images, except before the crucifix and at Easter before the sepulchre. (fn. 10) The churchwardens then sent for him, and asked if he still continued obstinate. Said the orders did not concern him, for he was neither a bp. nor a churchwarden, and that they did not enjoin the maintenance of lights, but their removal; moreover, that they gave him hopes that ere long the burning of candles, even before the crucifix and the sepulchre, would be abolished. They reproached him for refusing to do what his own and his wife's parents did; which is true, for his mother paid the sum for him for one or two years for fear of consequences. After this heard no more of it, except that the day after he left London for Antwerp, the bp. of Winchester, whose diocese extends to the middle of London bridge, endeavoured to fish out something about him from neighbours apprehended before his departure. One of them denied having received Hilles in his house, and his most bitter enemies, who are men of wealth, did not like to betray him. The bp., too, not perhaps knowing of his departure, made open inquiry respecting him, and said that he should take himself off.
Remarks upon Lactantius and Cyprian. Intended to read Origen, but has changed his mind, as Bullinger does not mention him in his letter, &c. Begs him to send the bible of Leo Jud, if it is completed; he must fix the price and receive payment from Henry Falckner. Salute Falckner, and Peter Hurtzel in my name, and tell them English cloth is not likely to come to Antwerp at next fair, owing to the war between the Emperor and the Duke of Gueldres. They can pay their debts to me either to myself or my wife at Strasburg, or through some citizen of Zurich; for I am now in great want of it, especially during Lent; for I have sent all my money to England to buy cloth, which is now at Antwerp, and cannot be forwarded to Upper Germany for the war. My wife salutes you and your wife. Messages to Megander, Theodore Bibliander, Pellican, and Master Erasmus and his wife. Did not intend to have written any more for the reason Bullinger knows, but begs him to promote the cause of John Burcher, about which Butler has lately written to him from Basle. (fn. 11)
No news from England since the Frankfort fair, when friends wrote that a war had begun in the North of England and South of Scotland. On account of an inroad by the Scots, our King threatened to declare war. The Scot, not much pleased, sent ambassadors, and our King promised peace, they say on these conditions : That the King of Scotland should at every Parliament do homage to our King and his successors; that he should promise to depose the Roman pontiff or his monks, make satisfaction and pay expenses of preparations made in August and September, while these things were in treaty. The Scotchman refuses almost all these conditions, except payment of a sum for renewal of the peace and expenses. The King then, trusting, I fear, more in chariots and horses than in the name of God, sent over 120,000 men into Scotland, who, I have just heard by a letter of the 30 Nov. from England, have again returned from Scotland, for reasons strictly kept secret. Traders in France say our people have lost 14,000 men in Scotland.
Has lost about 200 fl. by bankrupt debtors, &c. Strasburg, 18 Dec. 1542.
19 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.C., 64.
1219. The Privy Council.
Meeting at St. James's, 19 Dec. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Hertford, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Riche, Baker, Dacres. Business :Sir Humph. Browne having refused to sell certain wainscot to the King's purveyors at reasonable price, a letter was sent advising him to sell it at the officers' price, or else at a price to be fixed by four indifferent men. Read letters from Deputy and Council of Ireland to the King signifying the number of the retinue to be 550, Nele Conelagh's request for recompense upon the King's establishing the earl of Tirone, request for John Goldsmith to be clerk of the Council, the death of Tirlagh Othole, and the fee of 6s. 8d. a day to the lord Chancellor "to be confirmed." Warrant subscribed for payment of Morgan, the King's goldsmith, and one Goldwell for the graving of four Great Seals. Letter devised to (blank), chandler, of London, to pay 60l. to Hen. Haward, according to an indenture with the duchess of Norfolk.
19 Dec.
R. O.
1220. Complaints By Frenchmen.
"Certain complaints exhibited to the French king concerning their evil handling in England, declared first by mouth, by his ambassador, to the King's Majesty and his Council, and here shortly brought into writing."
1. Leaving apart all complaints before the war lately begun between the French king and the Emperor, Frenchmen complain that they dare no longer haunt the ports of England, because their ships are detained for causes of which they are not culpable, especially in ports far from London, where they cannot easily have recourse to the Council.
2. If an Englishman charges in their ships merchandise which is prohibited or uncustomed, the ship is confiscated; whereas they that lade such goods ought to suffer, and only the goods should be confiscated, being ordinary merchandise and not munitions of war. Damien Sibille of Dieppe had his ship arrested at Hampton, because there was found in it a little tallow, a pack or two of kerseys, and a horse belonging to Edw. Wilmet, of Hampton. The billett found in the said ship was there by licence of the customers of Hampton; who licensed the mariners to take 300 or 400 apiece for their own houses, and also four or five hides to make fishing boots. In the beginning of August, two poor mariners of Cherbourg complained to the Ambassador that their ship was arrested at Hampton because they intended to lade two dickers of leather, and had in their ship "certain mares under the compass of the statute, which they had paid custom for." The Ambassador obtained a letter from the Council for deliverance of the ship, but the poor men could get no answer; and one fell sick at Hampton, the other returned, begging by the way, to the Ambassador, who sent him home. The doer hereof, Mr. Hutoft, took from them, besides, 3 or 4 crowns.
3. A ship of Normandy, with fish from the New Founde Ilandes, was brought by force into Bristol haven and there compelled to sell the fish at a price appointed by the town; and, although he complied, he was stayed 9 or 10 weeks before he could recover his anchor and sails. Another ship of St. Jhean de Luc was likewise stayed, and the Ambassador obtained its deliverance, but in the meantime it was detained a whole month. 4. Other restraints are still maintained, among them a ship of New Haven, armed and licensed for war, coming to the Isle of Wight, was stayed by the captain of a bulwark there, and the men imprisoned, for the robbery of certain Englishmen, which was committed before their coming out of France, as appears by their licence and instructions. Two of the men are still prisoners in the Isle, after five months' suit for redress. The Ambassador requires that they may be delivered, and says that, by the treaties, ships of war may come and go freely in English waters, provided that their men exceed not 100 in number. 5. Another ship of 100 tons, coming from Scotland, whither, by the King's command, it had carried the Cardinal, was taken, and the captain "and iiij more, a great number wondering upon them, were in miserable estate brought into prison, and some of his company so beastly and cruelly beaten and tormented as Moors or Turks would never have done the like;" as the officers of the place can certify, for in one of their houses was done "this goodly piece of work." They remained prisoners three months, and the captain and certain others are still in free prison, although no one has ever appeared to complain of any wrong at their hands, and it is five months since they were taken. The Ambassador requires that they be released, and their ship restored; or, if there be any probable doubt, that they may be at liberty upon sureties. 6. Concerning the 15 that remain at Dover, desire the Council to put the King's pleasure in execution. 7. Will not mention the cappers, whom men will compel to sell their caps at 6d., the King taking 20d. for the custom, because he trusts to the lord Chancellor, who has the handling of that matter.
The Ambassador prays the Council to take some amiable order in these matters, which he is commanded to pursue as courteously and amiably as may be. London, 18 Dec. 1542. Signature copied.
English translation in Petre's hand, pp. 7. Endd. : Certain complaints exhibited by the French ambassador to the Council 1542, xixo Decemb.
19 Dec.
Add. MS. 32,648 f. 224. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 261.
1221. Lisle to Henry VIII.
After despatching their last letters of the 18th, received the King's, dated at Hampton Court, the 12th inst. When Sir Geo. Douglas came from Berwick with news of the Scottish king's death, Lisle was devising with Sir Ralph Evre and Brian Layton for a notable enterprise in Scotland, and had sent for Sir George. He declared the news, which Lisle wrote on the 16th, and said one Penanghawe had appointed to meet him at Berwick the same night, so Lisle sent him back in haste to Berwick. He afterwards sent Lisle a letter declaring the King's death more plainly. Thought at first the news was false, and intended to follow up his purpose to send a foray of 600 men as exploiters to seize the passage to a town in the Marse called Duns, of which foray Sir George had promised to be one if Lisle would back him with 2,000 mem. This enterprise was to be on Thursday next. Letters were to be sent to all the pensioners of Northumberland, and to George Heron, keeper of Rydesdale and Tyndale, to meet Lisle with l,200 horse, at the Stone on Crokemore, between the East and Middle Marches, where Robt. Collyngwood and John Horsley (noted to be men of best conduct) with the lord Ogle, were to receive Lisle's letters directing them to enter upon the Drye Marche and burn East Tyvedale, and so hinder Tyvedale from succouring the Marse. Of the other enterprise for Dunse, which was to be by 2,500 men of the garrisons and part of Bamborowe and Norham shires, the gentlemen of the country knew nothing, although many of them are right willing and diligent.
Now, as it does not seem to the King's honor to make war upon a dead body, or a widow, or a suckling his daughter, especially at the time of his funeral, Lisle awaits further orders. This night, an espial brought word that, immediately upon news of the King's death, Dane Carr, lerde of Fernherste, went to Jedburgh, and brought away two great pieces of ordnance from the gatehouse to his own house, and the abbot there took the remaining three small pieces home to his house. "It appeareth by this that they mind not so much the defence of the country as they do to defend one against another." This espial affirms that the Cardinal, Huntley, Murray, and Arran have undertaken the governance; that the King died of poison, and is secretly buried; and that the Princess is alive "and good liking," at Lithcoo. Wishes she and her nurse were in my lord Prince's house.
Can hear of no preparation for defence of these Borders. The keeper of Rydesdale and Tyndale, on Sunday last, with 200 horse, burnt Nether Claveryng in West Tyvedale. The Saturday night before, John Carr of Wark, was in and took prisoners, two of the Davysons and one of the Bromefeldes. Keeps those he trusts least most occupied. Alnwick castle, 19 Dec., 6 a.m.
P.S.Encloses a letter from Sir Wm. Evre. Eftsoons reminds him to furnish the treasurer with money, for he has not sufficient to discharge those to be despatched now upon Cumberland's coming. Signed.
Pp. 5. Add. Endd. : ao xxxiiijo.
20 Dec.
Dasent's A.P.C., 66.
1222. The Privy Council.
Meeting at St. James's, 20 Dec. Present : Canterbury, Chancellor, Suffolk, Hertford, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Baker, Dacres. Business :Letters of 16 Dec. received from Wharton with news of exploits done in Scotland by Robin Foster, etc., the disfurniture of the West Marches by reason of Cumberland's departure to Lisle, the ransoming of divers good prisoners for small prices, and the taking of the laird of Fentre. Letters received from Lisle of an exploit in Scotland by George Douglas, the conveyance of the King's letters to the king of Scots, &c. Letters received from the Welsh Council with depositions of lewd words by a Scot. Letters also came from Mr. Pagett.

Footnotes

  • 1. The name occurs three times, but in each case is carefully crossed out. It may be "Swynno," or, at any rate, a name of that length.
  • 2. See Calendar of State Papers, Foreign, Mary, p. 17. The French Ambassador at that time was Odet de Selve; and the document is no doubt the "schedule" described as "missing" in the above Calendar, No. 53
  • 3. James Melvile. See Nos. 479 and 935
  • 4. Count Bernardo di San Bonifacio?.
  • 5. Of Viseu.
  • 6. No. 1,166.
  • 7. Somerset herald.
  • 8. Apparently the laird of Brunstone. See No. 1,193.
  • 9. Stokesley.
  • 10. This was in September, 1538. See Vol. XIII., Part II., No. 281. Comp. Wilkins
  • 11. See No. 1,073.