Henry VIII: March 1543, 1-10 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 1, January-July 1543. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1901.

'Henry VIII: March 1543, 1-10', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 18 Part 1, January-July 1543, (London, 1901) pp. 134-149. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol18/no1/pp134-149 [accessed 26 April 2024]

March 1543, 1-10



1 March. Dasent's A. P. C., 92.	227. The Privy Council. Meeting at Westm., 1 March. Present : Norfolk, Russell, Hertford, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Dacres. Business : Letter written to Sir Thos. Wharton touching things to be declared to lord Maxwell.
1 March. Add. MS. 32,650, f. 2. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 320.	228. Suffolk and Others to the Council. Enclose letters just received from Wharton. Although Bucleugh's offer to deliver the young Queen seems an unlikely matter, and not, with the King's honor, to be practised "in such sort," they have advised Wharton as in the enclosed copy of their letter. Ask the King's pleasure touching that matter and Maxwell's son. Yesternight arrived the Council's letters to the lord Warden, staying his return. That will much advance the King's affairs, considering his intelligence with Arren, good espials in Scotland and experience of the Borders. This morning came the Council's letters of the 26th, with those to the lord Warden and the minute of a letter to be written by Suffolk to Anguishe. Suppose it to be devised upon the news of the removing of the young Queen and her mother to Stirling; which was untrue, for they remain at Lythco, although the mother desired to remove, as Rotesaye herald said. Suffolk will, however, write such a letter to Anguishe, and another to Arrayne, according to the Council's instructions of the xx[vj]th Feb. Have proclaimed the abstinence here and will have it proclaimed at Carlisle and other Border places. Upon the the lord Warden's arrival (who will be here to-night, and would have been here yesterday but for his journey to Berwick touching Lionel Graye) will appoint 500 men to remain in garrison. Newcastle, 1 March. Signed by Suffolk, Durham, Parr, and Sadler. P.S., in Sadler's hand.—The lord Warden is arrived. Pp. 3. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
1 March. Add. MS. 32,650, f. 4 B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 320 (1).	229. Suffolk to Sir Thos. Wharton. Has received his letters and credence by his cousin, Lancelot Lowther, with letters from Maxwell and Buckleugh's letters to Wharton. Approves his discreet proceedings concerning the intelligence brought by the Scottish woman (fn. 1) from Buckleugh, who seems a mean man to have the mayning of so great a matter. Still, Wharton should speak with him and hear what he has to say; and then, giving him thanks for his zeal, put him off with fair words and report all to Suffolk. Maxwell is to be told that Suffolk has received his letter and would gladly accomplish his desire, but, as Arrayn has lately obtained longer day for the entry of the prisoners, the pledges to remain as they do, Suffolk dare not himself change his (Maxwell's) pledge, but has notified his desire to the Court and trusts shortly to have answer to his contentation. Copy in Sadler's hand, pp. 3. Headed : The copie of my lord of Suffolk his lettre to Syr Thomas Wharton, of the first of March. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
1 March. Add MS. 32,650, f. 6. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 320 (2).	230. Suffolk to Arran. Having, upon this abstinence, dissolved the King's garrisons on the Borders, saving that the lord Warden remains with a convenient number to attend him and aid the officers to maintain good rule, considering how ready the broken men on both sides are to break the peace; requires Arran, likewise, to appoint a convenient number to assist his officers so that both sides may be in good order and the officers may, by mutual agreement, ride upon peace breakers. Will punish such of the Liddisdales and other broken men of Scotland who may be taken on this side, and is content that Arran shall do the same to Englishmen of Tyndale and Ryddesdale taken in Scotland. Thinks this will conduce to good rule and requires Arran to signify his conformity with it. Copy in Sadler's hand, pp. 2. Headed : The copie of my l. of Suff. lettre to therle of Arrayn, of the first of March. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
1 March. R. O. St. P. IX., 327.	231. Bonner to Henry VIII. As he wrote on 8, 14 and 27 Jan. the Emperor, tarrying here two months, departed for Saragosa and Barcelona this 1st of March. Prince Philip accompanies him only to Alcala de Henares and then returns here, and after Easter goes with the Grand Council to remain at Valladolid. Contrary to his custom the Emperor has not gone to his mother at Torre de Sillas beside Valladolid, for her blessing at his departure, but has only taken order with the Council and the Marquese of Denia for her governance. For this, and a rumor that the French will return upon Perpignan, the Emperor's going to Italy is not so undoubted as it was. As to the assembly of great men of Castilla, mentioned in Bonner's letters, they came with small company and tarried a fortnight. Encloses a schedule of their names. Besides these marriages and the King of Portugal's conclusion declared by Idiaquez, who returned on the 10th ult., and a gentleman of Portugal, who arrived on the 16th, there was "purposed" both the governance of the Prince and realm in the Emperor's absence and the war. Although they would lend no money, they would be ready to defend the country. The money granted in the Courtes is now mostly paid in hand and great loans taken of merchants. Hears of no great personage to accompany the Emperor save the Conde de Feria, who offered himself. True, the chief captains of Castilla and Valentia were assembled here, but that may have been for the French war and defence against Barbarossa and the Turk, of whose preparations against Christendom at the French King's instance there is much talk. The Conde of Modica is made admiral, as his father was who died this time twelve months. The Conde de Alcandete who lately went into Africa has sped well and won Tremysin, some 20 leagues from Alger. Capt. Alvaro Bazan and Don Pedro de Guzman, who were to go with certain Spaniards into Flanders, remain here because the French remove towards Narbona. The arrest of ships at Seville was released as regards English ships at the coming hither of Ric. Grange, Mr. Gonson's servant. Ric. Graye warns Bonner that Wm. Estrige, married in St. Mary Hill parish and dwelling at St. Lucar, intends to present to the King divers costly boxes of marmalado given him by naughty friars of Seville, "suspected to have within them things of danger and great peril." Told Graye to warn the King and Council. The boxes are shipped in the Saber of Bristow. Graye promises to enquire further on his return to Seville. It is said that the Scottish King was hurt in the battle and is dead, and Henry determined to enter Scotland and be crowned there. The Emperor knows this only by merchants of Burgos and St. Sebastian's, but the writer "would it were yet true." Alexandro Visconte and Camillo Castellazo, envoys of Milan, have had gentle audience. Madrill, 1 March, 7 p.m. Signed. ii. The noblemen assembled at Madrill, at the Emperor's there being in Feb. A.D. 1543, viz. "the duke of Cameryne that hath married the Emperor's bastard daughter, of the house of Farnese, a Roman born;" "the duke of Frias, earl of Haro and constable of Castile, of the house of Velasco"; and so on. A list of 42 dukes, marquises, counts, comendadors and cardinals (Toledo and Seville), "besides xiij bishops." Pp. 3, slightly mutilated. Add. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
R. O.	2. Duplicate of the preceding also signed and addressed. Pp. 3, slightly mutilated.
2 March. R. O.	232. Adrien De Croy [Sieur De Roeulx] to Wallop. Has received his letter expressing desire to speak with the writer for some affair of importance. Is sorry he is so far from the frontier, but will go to-morrow to Lille, and thence to a little house of plaisance near Gravelinghen, and send word of his arrival through the captain of Gravelinghen; for if he sent direct it would at once be known in France. "Je suis veneu ichi pour faire mon cas prest a me bien deffender, comme avant xij jours vous veres." Castle of Guand, 2 March, very early. French. Hol., p. 1. Add. : "Mons. le gouverneur et capitaine de Guines." Endd. : A^o xxxiiij.
R. O.	233. The Great Master of Flanders. "These be the words that the Great Master did speak to my servant on Monday at night last past." I believe when all is done the King of England will take neither part. If he think the French King will be his assured friend he is deceived, for I know that some of the best of his realm lately said, "Shall we never overcome the King of England?" If the Emperor wax weary of war and render Milan, peace is made for ever, and then if England make war with France, for 1,000l. it should cost now, it should then cost 100,000l. I marvel that the King of England does not spy his time. I have plenty of money. I have 7,000 fighting men and 5 or 6 battery pieces at his command. Also about Luzenburg we have 14 ensigns of lanceknights and 500 men of arms. The French King is preparing a great army against this country. If he come not we will meet it in the field, and if he come and it be too great we will keep the towns, and by the end of April all forage will be spent and he must retire, and then we will "set on the tails of them." On Monday last, at 4 p.m., entered St. Omer's the whole garrisons of Arras, Byttune and Ayre, and left that night, at 12 o'clock, with 5 great battery pieces (some had 11 horses to draw them), to besiege a castle 4 leagues off, said to be Alkyn castle. The Great Master says that the duke of Cleave makes great suit for peace. P. 1. Endd. : "The words spoken by the Great Master of Flanders to Mr. Walop's man."
3 March.	234. Bishopric of Coventry and Lichfield. See Grants in March, Nos. 8 and 31.
3 March. Dasent's A. P. C., 93.	235. The Privy Council. Meeting at Westm., 2 March. Present : Norfolk, Russell, Hertford, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Dacres. No business recorded. Meeting at Westm., 3 March. Present : As above. Business :— Whereas a letter was written to Wm. Oseburne, at Hull, to deliver the ship of Camphire to bearer, who returned certifying that it was neither at Hull nor Harwyche but here in the river, a letter was sent to Wm. Gonston for its delivery.
3 March. Add MS. 32,650, f. 12. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 323.	236. Suffolk and Others to Henry VIII. Edward Leche, the rebel, being, by appointment between Arran and the lord Warden, delivered at the Bounde Rodde of Berwick and brought to Alnwick, made a confession to the lord Warden, who at his repair to Newcastle (to consult Suffolk about dissolving the garrisons and placing the five hundred) made Leche repeat his tale to the Council here. As it contains matter which the King should know, they have caused Leche to write it, and it is here enclosed. Newcastle, 3 March. Signed by Suffolk, Lisle, Parr and Sadler. P. 1. Add. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
3 March. R. O. St. P., v. 257.	237. Suffolk and Others to the Council. Have received the Council's letters of the last of February, which they will ensue touching Donlaneryke. Perceive that it is not well taken that they have not revenged the late incourses by Scots, seeing the abstinence was but conditional upon its acceptation or refusal. Considering the time of the abstinence, which they knew had been accepted and proclaimed in Edinburgh immediately after it arrived, thought it convenient to forbear; especially as the excourses were done by broken men, with the help of the Tynedales and Riddisdales, and would have to be revenged by gentlemen and garrison men, and also as the broken men on this side had been riding upon the Scots, notwithstanding the lord Warden's command, and were fully even with them. From henceforth, if they keep good rule and make redress, we shall render the like to them; if otherwise, they shall for one shrewd turn have two. Have dissolved the garrisons; not before it was high time, for by the scarcity and badness of fodder many good horses are lost. Have picked out 500 of the best to remain in garrison in pursuance of the Council's letters of 26 Feb. Enclose a schedule of the names of the captains and the places where they lie, which are as near the Border as horsemeat can be had. On Tuesday last Edward Leche was delivered at the "Bounde rodde" of Berwick, by appointment between Arren and the lord Warden; and he is now here and shall forthwith be sent up. Enclose the depositions of the three persons who were at the finding of the letter (enclosed) contrived in Lyonel Grey's name. Explain at length why they strongly suspect that one of these persons, Peter Middleton, was the contriver and writer of the letter, as the handwriting is like his, and he had brought the other two, Geo. Crofte and Robt. Avery, beside the Porter's pew to listen to the organs when he found the letter in the pew, and (expressing hope that there were no treason in it) suggested taking it to Robt. Rooke, who, like him, bears malice to the Porter. The Porter cannot read nor write and his mark is not like that in the forged letter. He seems too wise to trust any man with writing such a letter, or to leave it so negligently in his pew. Keep him here until further instructions, and have put another to supply his office meanwhile. Newcastell, 3 March. Signed by Suffolk, Lisle, Parr and Sadler. P.S. in Sadler's hand :—"The cause why my lord of Duresmes hand is not now at our letters is for that he is gone to preach at Morpeth." Pp. 5. Slightly mutilated. Add. Endd. : iij^o Feb. (sic) a^o xxxiiij^o.
3 March. Add MS. 32,650, f. 8. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 321.	238. Sir Thos. Wharton to Suffolk and Others. Received Suffolk's letters from Newcastle, 28 Feb., with a proclamation of abstinence of war by land from 14 Feb. to 1 June, which he has proclaimed in Carlisle. Is credibly informed that proclamation was made on Monday last for abstinence for six months both by sea and land. Received also Suffolk's letters by Lancelot Louthere, one of his (Wharton's) deputies, from Newcastle, 1 March, and declared the answer to lord Maxwell. Maxwell desires to be at their Parliament, for the King's service and the weal of Angwes, who will marry his daughter. Will obey the instructions touching Bukclewghe. A Council was to have been kept by Huntley, Argille and others, with many churchmen, at Saynt Johnstones, and none of that Council to come to Edinburgh; but, this 3 March, an espial called Johnstone reports that Argill's suit to the Governor for certain lands in the Isles which the late King gave him will be granted, and thus he will be brought friendly to the Parliament. The troubles in the Isles of which Wharton wrote on 23 Feb. were stirred against Argille by the Governor. This Saturday night came a French servant of the Queen Dowager of Scotland with a letter to lord Maxwell to get him conveyed to Suffolk with her letters. He will be to-morrow night at Hexam and on Monday at Newcastle, accompanied by a kinsman of Wharton's. Maxwell says that the Queen Dowager and Arane begin to disagree because Arane would have the Queen her daughter to Stirling castle and she wishes to remain at Lithcoo; also that this Frenchman brings the Queen Dowager's answer to Suffolk's letters, which before were only answered by word. Two or three little displeasures have been done by English Westmarchers in Scotland before 14 Feb., for which Maxwell asks redress, saying that the King promised that redress should be made for any attemptates committed after his departure. Has little or nothing to demand of Maxwell. Carlisle, 3 March. An espial called Joke Dowgles, servant to Maxwell, has just reported that lard Dumlanreke has written to Maxwell to "come starke with a power" to the Parliament. Angwes and his friends devise to keep this Parliament for restitution of Angwes, and Dumlanreke thinks it will succeed. Kind messages are sent to Argill. Angwes is hasty to be married, the payment being 4,000 mks. Scottish, of which Maxwell has already received the half for his friendship. Signed. Pp. 3. Add. to Suffolk, Lisle, Durham, Parre and Sadler, at Newcastle.
3 March. Add MS. 32,650, f. 10. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 322.	239. Arran to Suffolk. On the 3rd received his of 27th ult., from Newcastell, mentioning receipt of the abstinence for the part of Scotland, and his intention to make proclamations for good rule on the Borders during it, with a remembrance of certain "byrnyngis and hereschippis" done by Scots, and a desire for the acceleration of the ambassadors towards the King, whose letters are received of "prorogation" of the noblemen prisoners till Whitsunday, "My lord, we thank you of your good mind and diligence in all our affairs." As to keeping good rule, has commanded the wardens to keep warden courts and make redress as in times of peace. Will send the ambassadors with all diligence after the 12th inst., which shall be the first day of Parliament; for the matter to be treated requires the counsel and consent of the most part of the noblemen and barons, and the convention could not be sooner. Will answer the writings brought here by bearer by Berwick pursuivant, who "has been this long time in the west parts of this realm, to what affair we know not." Edinburgh, 3 March. P. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
3 March. R. O.	240. J. D'Estourmel to Wallop. I have just received letters from the Count (fn. 2) who orders me and all the Emperor's servants in my government to obey you. You may command us until his coming, which shall be very soon. I write nothing to the deputy of Calais. The French "euoite (envoyent?) es villes frontieres a vous force gens de chevaulx." Gravelinghes, 3 March. French. Hol., p. 1. Add. : A Mons., Mons. le gouverner de Guines, a Guines. Endd. : The captain of Gravelyn to Mr. Wallop iij^o Martii, a^o xxxiiij^o.
4 March. Dasent's A. P. C., 93.	241. The Privy Council. Meeting at Westm., 4 March. Present : Norfolk, Privy Seal, Hertford, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley. Business :—Letter written to Thos. Waters, of Linne, to victual two ships equipped for war out of Linne, and pay the wages of captain and men from time to time.
4 March. R. O.	242. The Governors of St. Omer to Wallop. Today, the Sieur de Renouille and I received letters from the Count de Roeulx commanding us to write to you that, for the service of the King of England, the garrison of St. Omer, both horse and foot, is at your order. St. Omer, 4 March 1542. Signed : J. de Holewin; Gilles du Bois. French, p. 1. Add. : Monsr. le debitis de Ghines. Endd. : To Mr. Wallop from St. Omers.
4 March. R. O. St. P. IX., 331.	243. Mont to Henry VIII. Since he last wrote the States have divers times met in Council; but the Protestants insist, as before, that their religion be approved by law and that all except two of the 24 doctors who are the judges and assessors of the Chamber be dismissed and others appointed. In administering the old laws they (of the Chamber) necessarily condemn many new institutions of the Protestants, and they are sworn to the recess of Augsburg, by which the dogmas of the Protestants are condemned. Sees no chance of concord except through fear of the Turk, nor is sure that their combined forces can resist the Turk. King Ferdinand and the Venetians (who also have an orator here) have news that the Turk has left Adrianople for Hungary with a vast force. The Hungarians dislike Ferdinand and are not to be trusted. The dukes of Bavaria and Wurtemberg have intervened to settle the Brunswick matter, and restoration of the children (fn. 3) is being treated. Marquis Joachim, Elector, who last year commanded the Turkish expedition, has sent a book to the Diet explaining that nothing could be done because the number of soldiers promised was not sent and the men were badly paid. This excuse is not held sufficient, because, at the Germans' coming, there were not past 8,000 Turks in Buda and Pesta. In Lower Germany the Cleves party have lost 500 horse; and the Emperor will take no peace without Gueldres. The Saxon has assisted his kinsman of Juliers; which may involve him and his adherents in the war. Nurnberg, 4 March, 1543. Latin. Hol., pp. 3. Add. Sealed. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
5 March. Dasent's A. P. C., 93.	244. The Privy Council. Meeting at Westm., 5 March., Present : Canterbury, Norfolk, Privy Seal, Gt. Chamb., Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley. Business :—Letter sent to Wm. Gonston to supply victual by small boats to the Mynyon and the rest of the fleet appointed to the Downs.
5 March. R. O. St. P., III. 440.	245. Henry VIII to the Deputy and Council of Ireland. (fn. 4) Answers theirs of 7 Dec., as follows :—1. The view sent of revenues and charges there is imperfect; for although the Vice-treasurer cannot affirm certainly the yearly issue of liveries, wards, first fruits, profits of the Hanaper, &c., he might have stated the amount for last year and the year before, and similarly with the lands whereof they write that the King takes yet little profit. A more perfect view is to be made, with the oversight of the Deputy, and sent as shortly as possible. 2. Sends by bearer, his servant, George Cary, 2,461l. 12s. st., and, upon receipt of the "said view," will provide what is necessary. 3. Desires them to signify whether Claneboy is so situate that the King "may conveniently depart with it," for he has heard here that it is not; also what the whole value is, and what rent should be reserved. Meanwhile they may assure Nele Connelagh of the King's favour. 4. Has taken George Cary into his service, and given him 12d. a day in recompense for Newry. Directs the Vice-treasurer to allow him two horsemen. 5. Desires them to get into his hands not only the port towns of Ulster but all port towns. Has this matter much to heart, and requires them, in their next letters, to certify particulars of the places, cost of keeping and profits, sending plats of the principal ports with note of what strangers trade there and at what seasons. This must be handled most secretly. 6. Sends the acts for the subsidy and for Dungarvan. Will further consider that for the incontinency of priests. 7. Grants the 6s. 8d. a day to the Chancellor. 8. Also their suit for John Goldsmith and for pardon of Nic. Bagnald at Tyrone's suit. ["Md. for the Scottes, &c."] (fn. 5) Finally, has licensed John Brereton to repair hither for two months. Directs the Deputy to provide for the charge of his men, and the Vicetreasurer to pay his wages in his absence. Sends also two seals graven with his full style, to be delivered in presence of the Council; and the old thereupon defaced and sent over by next messenger. Bearer is paid for his charges and the transport of the money. Draft with corrections and the last paragraph by Wriothesley. Endd. : "Minute to the Deputy and Council in Ireland, v^o Martii a^o xxxiiij^o."
5 March. Add. MS. 32,650, f. 14. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 324.	246. The Bishop of Llandaff to Suffolk. Sends inventory, taken by Suffolk's command, of Sir George Lawson's goods in and about York. Hears that there is 300l. to receive, which is in bailiffs' hands, and some other goods which he will certify as soon as he can get knowledge of them. York, 5 March. Signed. P. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
5 March. R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI.II., No. 109.]	247. Granvelle to Chapuys. Acknowledges his letter of the 12th ult., and the copy of the treaty sent him by the Queen of Hungary. God be praised for the great work. Is sure the Emperor will be pleased and acknowledge Chapuys's services. An express from the Queen soon after brought a third copy, come by way of Biscay, of the Emperor's letters. Nothing is heard yet of the two sent by the other sea. The Emperor writes that his departure from Madril was fixed for the day after St. Matthias last, to embark at Barcelona for Italy, where he would make no stay, but come at once to these parts to make war in France, and that if, as he hopes, the treaty with England passes, Granvelle and Chapuys should try and induce Henry to begin war against France this year. At once despatched a courier to Genoa to cause the galleys to leave, and wrote to the Emperor that the treaty was made (advising him to ratify it forthwith, and, if required, swear to it, and commit to Chapuys the [taking of the] reciprocal oath), and that he would advise Chapuys as to persuading the King to war against France this present year. Has drawn out a concise memorandum of arguments to be employed for the purpose, which he forwards first to the Queen Regent to be corrected in consultation with De Praet. Chapuys understands the King so well that he will know best how to make use of it in accordance with the Emperor's intentions. Is sorry he is troubled with gout; but he must persevere, and he may expect honor and recompense for his long service, although there seems no chance of his leaving England before next winter. Encloses another letter to be shown, at discretion, to the King and the two bishops (Gardiner and Thirleby) and to the lord Privy Seal. Nothing new since his last. Nuremberg, 5 March. P.S.—Since writing, has received the letters herewith from the Emperor brought by way of Italy, which show how much he desired the conclusion of the treaty, and the pleasure it will give him. For God's sake try to finish the good work in order that a blow may be given this year to him who is deservedly hated of God and all the world. French, pp. 3. Modern transcript from Vienna.
5 March. R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 110.]	248. Granvelle to Chapuys. Praises God for having granted what they so earnestly desired, as appears by Chapuys's letter of the 12th ult. and the documents there mentioned. Surely the Emperor fully expected it, confident that Henry could never forget the old friendship between them and their predecessors, and as he advanced would the more recognise the unreasonableness and malignity of the French and their irreconcileable enmity to him and his realm. The Emperor has accordingly determined to be in these parts by May and writes that he has already started. Now is the time to bring the common enemy to reason, for such an opportunity may not occur again, and every one says it is a judgment of God; and when Granvelle saw the treaty he thought to himself, a Domino factum est istud. Chapuys must ascertain the King's advice and may assure him there will be no fault upon the Emperor's part, but not a moment is to be lost. Desires commendations to the bps. of Winchester and Westminster and the lord Privy Seal. Nuremberg, 5 March. French, pp. 2. Modern transcript from Vienna.
5 March. R. O.	249. Wallop to the Council. Yesterday the muster was taken at Arde, 700 footmen. Mons. Torsey's band of 50 men of arms comes thither. Many ladders are a-making at St. Omez, in fear of which they of Arde make up the vaumures with dung faggots mixed with earth, and take away their maunds. On Thursday was proclaimed at Arde that no man should quarrel with any Englishman. General musters are deferred, awaiting the answer which their ambassador that went last over shall have. If it be not good they will make a course upon the Burgundians, and perhaps upon us, and retire into garrisons. They have 700 men of arms and but 10,000 foot and are not expected to "encamp" this year upon these frontiers. A gentleman of Mons. de Beez asked a Frenchman of these borders if he knew of any good Englishman to be taken prisoner. He said he did; and the gentleman then spoke to De Beez, who commanded him, on pain of death, not to meddle, for they would wait as long as they could. Begs, for the surety of the Pale, to know beforehand if the ambassador is not to have a good answer. Mons. de Beez is returned to Bullen and Mons. de Kerquey expected there, and their 800 horsemen shall muster to-day or to-morrow, with 3 ensigns of Parisians. Expects to hear more by one whom he sent six days past to Amiens, especially of the French king's coming thither. One sent out to-day could learn nothing of the coming of the said Parisians or of De Kerquey, but says that great preparation of forage is made in Bullen. Guisnes, 5 March. Signed. Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
6 March. R. O. St. P. IX., 333.	250. Paget to Henry VIII. To Paget's letter Cardinal Tournon answered that he must be content with the order taken, for it had never been seen that two French ambassadors should be in England and no English in France, and for the amity it were better to tarry until his successor came. At Amiens, found the Sieur Doultreleaue, captain of Crotoy and Rue, commissioned by Mons. de Bies (because there were many soldiers stirring in the country) to accompany him to Boulloyn; so Cambyes, Card. Turnon's man, returned to Court. At Amiens, Abbeville and Montreuil, the captains and officers brought presents and showed him much courtesy. At Boulloyn, Mons. de Bies escorted him to his lodging and entertained him at supper. De Bies asked when his successor was coming, and whether he would depart before his successor came. Answered as he did to the King. De Bies said he had better tarry, and that he was commanded to make him good cheer. Thanked him, but said he was ordered home and would depart on the morrow, for he thought no man would arrest him, seeing the French king had given him leave and it would be dishonourable to do so. De Bies said he had no command to arrest him, but to make him good cheer, and he should go hawking and hunting and whither he would. "Why, then," said Paget, "I will go to Calais." "Nay (quoth he), that you may not." Paget said that amounted to an arrest, and De Bies begged him not to use the word, saying he was no Councillor and was not to blame for this step, of which he disapproved. Asked how long he should be kept. De Bies said they had two ambassadors in England, and when Paget's successor came, if Marillac came with him, Paget might go. Paget said he was sorry to see this unfriendly dealing, and asked what he should write to his master. De Bies told him to write to Henry to send another in Paget's place, and Marillac with him, or else to send both ambassadors home, and then Paget should depart; and to signify his pleasure to De Bies as soon as might be. Talked then of the matter of the ships and of Marillac's proceedings, to which he wist not what to say. Lacks no good words, and De Bies seem anxious to gratify Henry, for the men of the ships arrested here are not imprisoned and English subjects of Calais are suffered to pass and repass without trouble, whereas in all other places every Englishman that comes is arrested and put in prison. Begs Henry not to "disorder" his determinations for his (Paget's) sake. Boulloyn, Tuesday, 6 March, very late. Signed. Pp. 5. Add. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
Caius College MS., 597, p. 279.	2. Letter-book copy of the preceding in the hand of Paget's clerk. Pp. 3.
7 March. Add MS. 32,650, f. 18, B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 325 (1).	251. Arran to Suffolk. Received this day his writing dated Newcastell, 2 March, signifying that, since the proclamation of the abstinence, he has dissolved the garrisons, save that lord Lisle, Great Warden, remains with a convenient number for the weal of the abstinence and help of the wardens deputies; and desiring Arran to do the semblable for Scotland and agree that the English may punish Liddisdales and other broken men of Scotland taken in attempts against the abstinence, the Scots punishing such of Tindale and Riddisdale as fortune to be taken on their side. Thanks for his good will to the abstinence. Will cause the wardens "to await time by time upon the execution of justice" and strengthen them to enforce observance of the abstinence. Agrees that thieves and breakers of peace should be punished, and is content that the English shall punish Liddisdales and all other broken men attempting against the abstinence, provided that the Scots may punish, not only men of Tindale and Riddisdale, but all other broken men of England doing the like. Edinburgh, 7 March. P. 1. Headed : The copy of the Governor's letter to my L. of Suff. of the 7 of March. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
7 March. R. O.	252. Paget to Wallop. Yesternight arrived here, where De Bies is commanded to make him good cheer and let him go hawking and hunting where he will; until either a successor come, with one of the ambassadors that be in England, or else both ambassadors come away. Has good cheer, and one or two gentlemen appointed to accompany him. This day De Bies accompanies Mons. de Pyna to Arde to remain as King's lieutenant above Sainchevall, with the 50 men of arms that were Mons. Torsyes. Boulloyn, 7 March. Signed. At the foot Wallop has written : "This morning I received a letter from the Great Master, and tomorrow I must meet with him beside Burberow. John Wallop." P. 1. Add. : Captain of Guisnes.
8 March. Add. MS. 32,650, f. 16. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 325.	253. Suffolk and Others to the Council. Enclose letters, both to Suffolk and the lord Warden, from Arran and from Angwishe and George Dowglas. To-morrow the lord Warden repairs to Alnewyke, to be near the Borders for speedy obtaining of news of the parliament in Scotland, and for the appointment of warden courts and days of truce. He will not himself meet the deputy wardens of Scotland, "being but mean personages," but (unless a chief warden is appointed on that side) assign the deputy wardens to it. Enclose also letters from Sir Thos. Wharton. As they "partly purport," 100 Scots of Lyddesdale, on Monday night, entered by the west marches and burnt two houses near Hexham, killing two Englishmen and taking eight prisoners. The lard of Thirlewall warned Jack a Musgrave and Blanerhassett, "the land serjeant," who gathered 30 men and surprised the Scots in their return, rescuing all the English prisoners save two, and taking 10 or 12 of the Scots prisoners, among whom are seven chief thieves of Lyddesdale, Armestronges. The lord Warden is informed that Patrick Hebbourne, a near kinsman of earl Bothwell, was with them, who has such credit with Bothwell that he has, or shall have, the keeping of Hermitage Castle. Have now sent to Wharton to pick out of these Armestronges, by whose advice this and recent raids from Lyddesdale were made, and what aiders they have in England. Send herewith an inventory, which they caused the President of the Council at York to make, of Sir Geo. Lawson's goods. Think that the executors will undertake to act; but they have day until the 19th inst. to decide. Meanwhile the goods are put in safety. Beg instructions in case the executors decide to act. P.S.—An espial has arrived with the lord Warden, reporting that the Governor and Anguysshe "are very stark and have a strong party," and that there is no more bruit of Huntley, Murrey, Argile and the Kirkmen holding a parliament of their own at Saynt Johnstones. Huntley and Murrey intend to come to Edinburgh in peaceable manner, where their lodging is taken and themselves expected yesternight. Argile comes with a stark power. If so, the Governor will let him bring no great power over the water, but only come himself with a convenient number of attendants. The bishops and clergy will come, who fear "that things shall go much against them at this time touching the reformation of their abuses." Newcastle, 8 March. Signed by Suffolk, Lisle, Durham, Parr and Sadler. Pp. 3. Slightly mutilated. Add. Endd. : A^o xxxiiij^o.
8 March. R. O. St. P., v. 260.	254. Arran to Suffolk. Angus and George Douglas say he has written to them that the first purpose of the duke of Gweis and earl of Lenox to lead a force hither is altered, and they "hes tane purpos to graitht yame mair starkly to cum in yis realm hastely, nocht to our contentatioun, and yat yai suld tak purpois to schip in Bryst of Bartanze"; desiring Arran to send a servant, to be conveyed through England, to enquire into this. Sends bearer, without writings, to make enquiry at the ports of Normandy and Bartanze under Suffolk's instructions. Holyrudhouse beside Edingburtht, 8 March. Signed : James G. P. 1. Add. : lieutenant general of the North partis of Ingland. Endd.
9 March. Dasent's A. P. C., 94.	255. The Privy Council. Meetings at Westm., 6, 7 and 8 March. Present : Chancellor, Norfolk, Privy Seal, Gt. Chamb., Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley. No business recorded. Meeting at Westm., 9 March. Present : Canterbury and the above. Business :—Dr. Guent and Dr. Oliver, appointed commissioners for hearing of certain Portugalles suspected of Judaisme, brought in certificate that they were Christian men.
9 March. R. O.	256. Wallop to the Council. On Tuesday, 6th inst., two of his horsemen that watch on Fynes hill brought word that De Bies, with a number of horsemen, dined at the castle there. Sent Mr. Vaughan to the Chalk Pits, to speak with him if he passed that way, and the Bailly to Camp, where he must pass. He had long communication with both. Writes Mr. Vaughan's report verbatim; as for the Bailly, he will write direct or else through the lord Deputy. De Bies asked Vaughan why Englishmen "fled away with their corn, cattle, bag and baggage"; who answered that he had no less marvel why all those of Picardy so did. De Bies then said that the English ambassador was stayed at Bullen until another came in his place or theirs returned, but that he left him merry, accompanied with gentlemen and damoyselles to pass the time. Vaughan had with him 7 or 8 tall fellows with pikes and as many with long bows; whom De Bies pointed out to Mons. de Pynay, "which he brought to be lieutenant at Arde for the French king," as of the hardiest men in the field of any nation he ever saw. Vaughan said the Picards were as tall men as ever he saw, and they exchanged compliments, De Bies inviting him to come to Bullen when the musters were taken (in three or four days), where he should have good cheer. De Bies desired to see the archers shoot; and when they had shot, De Pynay, who had never seen Englishmen shoot, asked if their King had many archers in his realm. "Unto whom Monsr. de Beez said that it was th' Englishmen's natural weapon from childhood. Then Mr. Vaughan said that the King's Highness might at all times find within his realm xl^ti m¹ archers that the worst of them should be better and taller personages than the best of those he had there. At those words Monsr. de Pynay took up his hand and blessed him." After this De Bies asked if he thought their masters should remain friends, and Vaughan said he was sure the King would not break the amity, but he heard that they had arrested all English ships and subjects in France. De Bies said that more French ships and of greater value were arrested in England, but he thought the amity would not be broken for any worldly goods, and protested his master's love to the King. And with many such fair words De Bies departed. Wallop, however, mistrusted his coming to Arde to be for something other than to conduct Mons. de Pynay, and caused all the country to retire their cattle within Newneham Bridge and the Marresse, and next morning wrote to the lord Deputy to let it remain there; so that now the French can do no hurt except burn the houses, which he reckons they will not begin. Yesterday De Bies returned to Bullen, not through the King's forest as he is wont. Perhaps he doubted an ambush of the Burgundians or mistrusted us; for the passage is now very strait because of the ditches Wallop cast from the chalk pits to the woodside for surety of the labourers. The night he came to Arde seven horsemen of St. Omez chased their "skult," and therefore he sent 300 footmen to search the woods and 300 to Leekes and, ere he came to the wood, sent his trumpet to Wallop with a letter (enclosed) that Mr. Paget gave him the day before to send here. Marvels "what he meant to keep the same so long." Guisnes, 9 March. Signed. Pp. 4. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
10 March. Dasent's A. P. C., 94.	257. The Privy Council. Meeting at Westm., 10 March. Present : Canterbury, Norfolk, Russell, Hertford, Winchester, Westminster, St. John, Cheyney, Gage, Browne, Wingfield, Wriothesley, Riche. Business :—Warrant stamped and signed to Tuke to pay Wm. Rogers, mayor of Norwich, 66[l.] 3[s.] 4½d. disbursed for board of certain Flemings taken at sea.
10 March. Add MS. 32,650, f. 20. B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 326.	258. The Privy Council to Suffolk. The King has seen his letters of the 6th inst. and those of Wharton and lord Maxwell, with the credence of the Frenchman sent from the Dowager of Scotland. Suffolk shall immediately write or send to the Dowager that, weighing the credence and remembering a report that the King should have need to provide shortly for the surety of her daughter, he thinks she has done wisely to seek his Highness's advice and succour; but, if they of Scotland desire to employ her daughter to their own purpose or percace put her in danger, as the credence and Suffolk's intelligence purport, she should be speedily gotten into the King's custody, who is well able to defend her "and will not otherwise bestow her than on his own natural son, my lord Prince's grace, the goodliest child of the world." If the Dowager will frankly signify her mind herein, and how she thinks it may be compassed, Suffolk may assure her that he will travail earnestly in it; begging her to take his advice in good part, which he could not forbear to utter, both because of her former message and his own zeal for the child's preservation, being so near the King's blood. Draft, pp. 5. Endd. : Mynute to the Duke of Suff., x^o Martii, a^o xxxiiij^o.
10 March. R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II., No. 114.]	259. Chapuys to the Queen of Hungary. Besides other attentions (visitations), this King, on the 2nd inst., sent Winchester, Westminster and Wriothesley to signify that he was content, solely for Chapuys's sake, to restore the goods of certain Portuguese (seized because of their being charged with Judaism), in whose favour she has twice written during these past months, as also have the King and Queen of Portugal. They wondered that there was no news from her to impart to their master; which Chapuys assured them was due to her great occupations, which gave her no leisure, and proposed as a remedy that the King should have an ambassador with her—a suggestion which they much liked. Perceived from them that, contrary to what they had before given him to understand, the bp. of London has no commission to treat of the common invasion, but only to solicit that Chapuys may be empowered to treat it. Told them that they seemed to have omitted the chief point of the bp's. instructions, and that he was astonished thereat, after what they had said, but chiefly because it concerned them so much in the present position of their master's affairs, who, they said, had thirty ships at sea and, being already at that expense, had far better make the said invasion and thus have the help of the Emperor's ships and so dominate the sea that neither French nor Danes would dare venture into Scotland. There was no other means of assuring the King's affairs in Scotland; for, as he had said before, French practices were more to be feared than their arms, and, if not busied in defending themselves, they had both leisure to contrive new moves and opportunity to get money out of the people; whereas, if effectively invaded, Francis would have no fancy to embroil the affairs of others and would fear to burden his people with taxes, after last year's risings in Brittany and La Rochelle. Now was the time to run upon him, when, after last year's expenditure, his money must be low; and, besides, for notorious reasons, he and his intrigues were detested by all Christendom, and even by all good men of his own realm, and there was small likelihood that he could get foreign soldiers of estimation, considering his treatment of the Clevois and Gueldrois and of Count Guillaume de Frustemberg. If he was to be left to breathe for another year, it would have been better to have deferred the conclusion of the treaty; for he was bound to hear of it, and would provide for his affairs and take heart, imagining that in such an opportunity we dared not assail him. The ministers took these and like representations in good part, and promised to report them to the King and let Chapuys know his intention. Next day, 3rd inst., received her letters of the 24th and 25th ult., with those to the King and the oration made in her behalf to the Diet of Nuremberg. After perusing all, on the 4th, being still indisposed and the weather unsettled (tres divers), sent the letters for the King to Wriothesley, to present them and get a confidential person sent to hear his credence. On the 5th, very early, Winchester and Mons. de Chenay, treasurer of the King's house and knight of the Garter, came to hear it, saying that the King thanked Chapuys for his advertisement by the aforesaid ministers, and would send an ambassador to her and debate the rest with his Council. Having then communicated his charge to them, they rejoiced to understand her affection for their master and the success of affairs there, and to see the prudence and dexterity with which she provided for everything; and they requested that they might take to the King her oration to the Diet; which Chapuys granted. As to the impost of 1 per cent. upon exports, showed them that if the English were exempt other nations would murmur, and merchandise would be fraudulently passed under the name of English, so that the impost would be fruitless; and it was to be employed against the second Turk and in a war not for Flanders alone but for the merchants here, who had much goods there and no other convenient outlet for their wares, besides that doctors of laws held that the convention of intercourse did not extend to this (although the Queen would not allege their opinion, as she wished rather to amplify than restrict the treaties). This they could not contradict, but rather admitted; and they stayed at nothing save the invasion of France in the present year, the treasurer (who alone spoke of it) alleging that the time was too short, if only for the difficulty of getting wagons. On Chapuys's removing that objection, he began another which might have made Chapuys suspect him of partiality, he having been brought up in France, and a pensioner, and tracing his ancestors from Burgundy. It was that the French frontier towns were so strong that the smallest of them could not be won within a year. Answered that the King knew their strength and, if he had thought them inexpugnable would not have capitulated the invasion, and Chenay knew that there was no fortress but was both guardable and pregnable; and if, perchance, Francis, this spring, invaded Flanders, as he bragged, after his men had suffered by bad weather and his horses by lack of forage, it would be easy to give them a thrashing which would astound those in the towns, and, by marching beyond them, to put the towns out of hope of succour; and if they (the Flemings?) in winter, with a handful of men, dared some time since to go as far as Montdedier, what might they do in summer, when victuals were abundant and might be carried by wagon, with an army six times as strong and the French forces scattered? The King's army drawing towards Normandy would always be aided by the joint armies on the sea, by means of which some stir (garboille) might be raised in Brittany and Bordeaux, where the King has right and is in good reputation; and, when all was said, their Majesties would not make the war alone, for the most part of Christendom would assist, at least with good wishes and prayers, and God would be captain of the enterprise and inspire those in charge of the fortresses to transfer them to more Christian and virtuous hands. To this the bp. and treasurer made no reply, but said they would report it to the King before answering. They said nothing of the duke of Cleves; but, eight days before, the King sent word by the secretary of his Council that he was advertised of a peace being treated between the Duke and the Emperor, and thought it the very best means to withdraw the Duke from France to the side of the Emperor, and that (if it could not otherwise be done) the Duke might be permitted to enjoy Gueldres for life, if it might pass with the Emperor's honor and reputation; and that in this he was not prompted by any affection to the Duke, for whom and all his allies he (the King) cared less than he did for the Emperor's gloves. This morning the King has sent word that he takes in good part Chapuys' communication to his said ministers, and, since she (as Chapuys had said) knew the Emperor's will as to the enterprise against France, and had authority in all things concerning her government, he had decided, as Chapuys advised, to send, in five or six days, two ambassadors to her. Thinks that one of them will be Mr. Thomas Semel, brother of the late Queen Jane, and the other Dr. Carne, whom she knows, and that they will be more dexterous and modest than the other (fn. 6) who was there these years past, who might have returned thither but for Chapuys's remonstrances. Is greatly consoled to hear of her satisfaction touching the treaty, of which, although the King desires it kept secret for some time, she might make profit with the dukes of Cleves and Holstein and other German princes; because the chief cause of his desiring secrecy ceases, viz., that he would provide against a French attack upon his lands beyond sea, and the indemnity of his subjects having goods in France is provided for by the retention of the six ships of which Chapuys has heretofore written, and the sequestration of Frenchmen's goods here, in which the ministers have used incredible diligence ever since the conclusion of the treaty and could not use greater rigor if war were declared. Believes that the exasperation will increase daily and soon constrain the English to enter war, especially if the ships of the two sides meet. It seems as if the French are seeking some pretext either for troubling the English openly or for sending into Scotland, for the French ambassador, twelve days ago, complained to this King that his master was advertised that Englishmen lighted the fire last year at La Rochelle, and that this King had sent into Normandy to practise the seizure of certain fortresses. True, Westminster and the Treasurer said that the ambassador who came eight days ago, called the prothonotary de Ortez, of the house of Gramont and nephew of the abp. of Bordeaux, has used very gracious and friendly language. The old ambassador would fain withdraw, but may not leave until the English ambassador, who was (on his way back from the French Court) arrested at Boulogne, arrives here; "et est obstine led. Sr. Roy de plustost mourir le sond. ambassadeur (sic) que de donner congie a nul desd. deux de France pour s'en retourner." Four days ago the King sent to say that, after the death of the late king of Scotland, learning that the French boasted that the duke of Holstein would send a great army to Scotland, he despatched one Wm. Watszon, practised in those countries, with letters to the Duke and also to Lubeck and Hamburg, to feel the Duke's intent and spy the preparations, who had been seized as a suspicious person and imprisoned at Utrecht; and the King desired Chapuys' intercession with the Queen for his immediate deliverance. All is for the service of their Majesties. The King greatly desired an interview with her, but his Council dissuaded him by representing that she was now greatly occupied with affairs; but he would marvellously desire that Grantvelle might cross hither. Surely, if his charge there permits it, his coming would be to the Emperor's service. London, 10 March, 1542. French, pp. 12. Modern transcript from Vienna. Original mainly in cipher.
10 March. R. O. [Spanish Calendar, VI. II, No. 113]	260. Chapuys to the Queen of Hungary. Lately, by her orders, he excused himself to various persons from writing about export of armour (harnoix) from thence, but now that things are changed, and those here must prepare to hurt the common enemy, hopes she will take in good part his petition for licence to deserving personages, such as Mons. de Sainct Jehan, of the Privy Council, who desires leave to procure 100 harnesses for foot men and 100 pikes. London, 10 March, 1542. French, p. 1. Modern transcript from Vienna.
10 March. Add. MS. 32,650, f. 24, B. M. Hamilton Papers, No. 327.	261. Lisle to Suffolk. This evening, since my coming hither, arrived Henry Raie, with letters from Arren, Anguishe and Sir Geo. Duglas (sent herewith). Here is also come a gentleman sent by the Governor into France, to be a spy upon the earl of Lenoxe (as Lisle conjectures from words which "escaped him unwares") although Arren's letter to Suffolk, of which Lisle has the copy, gives his errand to France as to see, in the ports of Picardie, Normandie and Breteigne, what preparation is made for the coming of Guise and Lenoxe into Scotland. An espial reports that Murray feigned a desire to join the Governor and Anguyshe, and came with the Governor on Tuesday last from Lithcoo to Edinburgh, tarried there all Wednesday, sitting "with them in Council," and on Thursday morning, early, departed without taking leave to the other lords at St. Johnston. Both he and Berwick say that only one bishop was come to Edinburgh on Thursday, but the enclosed letter from tke captain of Berwick declares that four are come. To-morrow or Monday, will know the certainty; for he has two servants and two espials still in Edinburgh. Both this espial and Berwick agree "that there will be great division and strife amongst these lords." The priests that come to the Parliament bring their men "in coats of plate and long spears." Alnwick, 10 March. Signed. Pp. 2. Add. Endd. : a^o xxxiiij^o.
10 March. R. O.	262. The French. "The sayings of Martin Hollande, the x^th day of March." That, to-day, Mons. de Bies commanded all his men of arms and archers to muster at Boulonge next week, and to come two or three days before. Another band shall muster at Moultrull. Where I specified to you that 100 men of arms should go to each garrison; now but 50 go, until they know whether it shall be war with us. There is no gathering of footmen. After the musters they pretend an enterprise in Flanders. De Bies's gentlemen say the Kings shall remain friends and restore the ships. P 1. Headed as above. Add. : To, etc., "Sir John Wallope, knight, capp^ne de Guises."