Henry VIII: April 1518, 16-30

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1864.

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'Henry VIII: April 1518, 16-30', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518, (London, 1864) pp. 1267-1281. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol2/pp1267-1281 [accessed 23 April 2024]

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April 1518

16 April.
R.O.
4085. PACE to WOLSEY.
Sends Sir Henry Marney's letters in answer to Richmond herald "upon the criminal cause not unknown to your grace." He is to persevere as he has begun. In answer to the King, Pace has shown him that he intends to go disguised with two persons into Switzerland without carriage of stuff. When there, he is to appear in a manner befitting the King's ambassador, considering the pomp of the French. Abingdon, 16 April.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
16 April.
P.S.
4086. For JOHN COPYNGER.
To be keeper of Chestenwoode, Kent, with 2d. a day out of the farms of the city of London: on surrender by David Burton gentleman of the Chapel Royal, of patent 1 April 3 Hen. VIII. Greenwich, 8 July 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 16 April.
16 April.
S.B.
4087. For ANTH. YONG and HAMLET SHAW of Westminster, alias of New Wyndesor.
Pardon. Del. Westm., 16 April 9 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 21.
16 April.
P.S.
4088. For SIMON GRENE of London, vinter.
Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Ric. Wingfeld, Deputy of Calais. Hampton Court, 9 March 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 16 April.
18 April.
R.O. Ellis, 3 S. I. 187.
4089. PACE to WOLSEY.
Received his letter of the 17th, with a packet for the King. Needs not move the King to read the letters from Spain, for he reads every word of all the letters sent under Wolsey's packet. This day Dr. Standyche is appointed to St. Asaph's. Woodstock, 18 April.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: My Lord Cardinal, &c. Endd.
18 April.
Er. Ep. App. 278.
4090. ERASMUS to BUDÆUS.
Tunstal excuses himself, in a letter to Erasmus, for not having replied to the letter of Budæus. He is so engaged in public and private business, that he is not his own master. Is going to Basle to edit his New Testament. Louvain, 18 April 1518.
18 April.
Vesp. C. I. 139. B. M.
4091. SPINELLY to [HENRY VIII.]
Wrote last on the 14th. This morning the 17th, dined with the Great Master, who leaves tomorrow with Don Fernando for Sant Ander. Six ships are prepared for the voyage, among which is The Angel, of Denmark, that brought the King to Spain. Two pinnaces will go before, and scour the coast of Brittany. Lords Sempey and Molombais and Norkarme (?) are next in command, under the Great Master, who is instructed to take his course to Plymouth, but if the wind be contrary to land at the nearest port in England. The Spanish ambassador in France wrote on the 12th that the French King had replied to him about Courtville's charge. "The son did not with his father as ought to be done, willing to assist your highness against him for a thing wherein it concerneth his honor and profit, that was Tournay. And as touching to make the submission in the Catholic King for such differences as he hath with your highness, he said all matters of the world he wol gladly submit in him; howbeit, considering the importance of such message, and the circumstances of it, he thought right convenient to think upon it, and not to give full answer without first having good advice and counsel therein." Next day the Chancellor of France called on the ambassador, and told him he thought it strange that Charles "should so openly take the quarrel against his father-in-law, with protestation to invade him;" and said that as the Lady of Angouleme and the Great Master were absent, he must wait to know their determination. The Chancellor also told him, in the French King's name, there was no need to communicate further for the meeting of the two Kings. This meeting Chievres and the Chancellor say they never really desired.
The French King expects easily to recover Tournay, through intelligence with the inhabitants. Chievres and the Chancellor, however, do not believe the French will break with England or Charles, but will keep good watch, so that "if the said Frenchmen do not fly into Tournay, all their enterprises shall come to nought." The French ambassador here complains of the tone of the Catholic King's letter to his master. He went yesterday along with Albert's ambassadors to the King, demanding the final answer, but they were told the King was going into Arragon, where they might follow him, and should have an answer there as the case required; but the Chancellor thinks they will return to their countries. The Pope's nephew was to arrive in the French court on the 12th, and the Duke of Lorraine two days after, to christen the French King's child, after which, Francis goes to Britanny and Guienne. The Emperor's ambassador in France is trying to get a sum of money to prorogue the truce with the Venetians. The alliance between the King of Portugal and the Lady Eleanor is concluded. They have sent into Almaine 100,000 ducats more to promote the King Catholic's interests in the election of King of the Romans, and counteract the practices of the French. Chievres strongly advises Henry to send an ambassador to the Swiss. The King leaves tomorrow for Arragon. He will receive the English ambassadors fifteen leagues hence. Spinelly rides this morning to meet them. The estates of Arragon make some difficulty about taking the oath to Charles as King, while his mother is alive. Possession of the archbishopric of Toledo was given to the Cardinal of Croy without opposition. It is daily more evident they are determined to marry Charles to the daughter of Hungary, when they have an opportunity of splitting with the French. Aranda, 18 April 1518.
Decipher in Tuke's hand, pp. 3.
20 April.
Giust. Desp. II. 181.
4092. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE.
When his secretary was in company with the Spanish ambassador, the latter spoke of the good will of the Catholic King to the Signory; adding, in allusion to the Christian King, that he wished all their confederates did the like. Sebastian thinks he was prompted to this by Wolsey, as he knows that the imperial ambassador is already with the Christian King about an arrangement. An outlaw, Don Matheo Bechiaria, a native of Pavia, who resides with the Emperor, has arrived, and spreads unfavorable news against the French King. In June the King and the Cardinal are going to the extremities of the kingdom; some say, because the latter wishes to visit his diocese of York, and dares not do it sine magno prœsidio. Francies it is on the affairs of Scotland. It is said he will remain there until October or November. The weather has been fine. London, 20 April 1518.
20 April.
P.S.
4093. For WM. STAVERTON of Westminster, grocer, alias taverner.
Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Ric. Wingfield, Deputy of Calais. Richmond, 16 March 9 Hen. VIII. Del ..., 20 April.
21 April.
P.S.
4094. For ROB. WHITE and the inhabitants of Youghille, Ireland.
Licence to export 600 quarters of wheat and beans. Abingdon, 14 April 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 21 April.
S.B. 4095. For JAS. ALEXANDER alias PICARDE.
Licence to export 100 tuns of beer.
S.B. 4096. For WALTER CLERK, of Hadley, Suff., clothier, to THOMAS CARDINAL OF YORK.
Write of certiorari to the sheriffs of London to certify in Chancery the cause of his arrest. By his bill obligatory of 17 May 8 Hen. VIII. he was bound to pay 3l. 16s. 5d. to Th. Baldrye, alderman and mercer of London, before Easter following; and, although he did so, Baldrye again demands payment. Signed: Per me, Humfrm. Hill.
S.B. 4097. For PETER DOWSSE, cook for the King's mouth.
Annuity of 20l. out of the customs of London, he being debilitated by fire and other heats in the late and present King's services.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 11.
S.B. 4098. For the PARISHIONERS OF FRAMFELD, in the deanery of Southmalling, Sussex.
Licence to ask alms in cos. Hants, Surrey, Sussex and Essex, for three years, to repair the said church, and the chancel, steeple and bells of the same.
S.B. 4099. For JOHN INGRAM.
Wardship of John s. and h. of John Bery.
Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 11.
R. O. 4100. ST. MARY'S, READING.
Petition for the temporalities of the monastery of St. Mary, Reading, Sal. dico., on the election of Thomas Worce[t]ter vice John Thorn.
22 April.
Er. Ep. III. 13.
4101. ERASMUS to GONELL.
His letter and present were very acceptable. Is to warn Clement against studying too hard, and specially against writing at night. If he is obliged to do so, from attending to the Cardinal's business, he should learn to write standing. Would be sorry to see so much promise come to nothing. Louvain, 10 kal. Maias 1517. (fn. 1)
23 April.
Er. Ep. App. 133.
4102. ERASMUS to FISHER BP. OF ROCHESTER.
Has been expecting his judgment on Reuchlin's work, but perceives he is too much occupied. The diabolical battle at Cologne grows more bitter every day. "Et hos tumultus cient in orbe Christiano cucullati sycophantæ qui evangelicæ doctrinæ præcones haberi volunt." Louvain, 23 April 1517.
23 April.
Er. Ep. App. 132.
4103. ERASMUS to PETER VANNES.
"You have sent only two or three leaves, although I had written so many long letters to Ammonius." He has not given the boy the Cardinal's letter to Erasmus. Can find in him none of the genius or temper of Ammonius. Louvain, 23 April 1517.
23 April.
Er. Ep. III. 15.
4104. ERASMUS to BOVILL.
So great is the perverseness and ingratitude of men, is halt inclined, when the new edition of his New Testament is out, to publish no more. Dissemblers and false saints spread slanders more like sycophants than hierophants. Is sorry there should have been any dispute with Faber. Has written to him that he might have an occasion of stating there was no quarrel between them, or reply if he wished to stand on his defence. Has heard nothing from him, and sees this will give occasion to fresh disputes, of which there is no end. Begs remembrance to Vaughan and Brian. Louvain, 9 Kal. Maias.
23 April.
Er. Ep. App. 279.
4105. ERASMUS to THOMAS BIDELL.
Is sorry that John returned without a letter from him. Gives an account of the bonds he had sent for money. The receipt sent by Erasmus for his pension was for 1517. Has sent also one for 1518 current. Louvain, 23 April 1518.
23 April.
Er. Ep. App. 280.
4106. ERASMUS to CROKE.
Congratulates Croke on his Greek professorship at Cambridge. Gave his Theocritus to Thomas Grey. Louvain, 23 April 1518.
23 April.
Er. Ep. App. 281.
4107. ERASMUS to JOHN SIXTINUS.
Particulars of his pension—dates of payment—and money received from Maruffo. Exclaims against Peter Ammonius (Vannes) for sending only one or two letters of the correspondence between his relative and Erasmus. Louvain, 23 April 1518.
23 April.
R.O.
4108. ORDNANCE.
Account of Th. Batcok of Bristow, for making a culverin for the King at Fontarabia.
To Maria Perys de Savada of the Passage, house hire for 6 pieces of iron left with her, belonging to a mould of the culverin "that was faylyd of his castyng" when my Lord Marquis was at Fontarabia, 12 shamfrons. Carriage of metal from "Maister Stille is howis," 15 shamfrons. For "weyx" to make the King's arms and other conceits upon the culverin, 16 sh. Small tack nails to dress the patron, 1 shf. To women for digging the ground where the culverin was cast, 3 shf. a day. To Master Machyn Dastigaretta, for ordering the making of a dray, loan of ropes, &c., 30 sh. For bread and wine to the people that hauled the piece of metal from before the castle of Fontarabia to the house of fondition, and wound it up to put it in the oven. To Master Savadyng "for the making of the ire that should hold the hart."—27 and 28 May 1517. For wine, bread and cherries for the men who hewed the timber; cider that the women drank when they carried up wood. For bran that was cast in when the metal was molt, and ready to be cast, 4 shf. 4 lb. candles, 8 shf. Bread and wine to those that helped wind up the culverin out of the earth after it was cast, and took off the bands and earth. Men who helped to "cleanse" the said gun, 5 shf. a day each. 18 cwt. of copper, "that was i layed as mettall ought to for to macke a gonne of the which was put a cast with the past of led," at 5 ducats the cwt. To Maister Jacobo, the King's fondidor. To the men that helped take out the heart and bore the culverin, 5 shf. a day. To Savadyng de Varte, smith, for making and mending the borers, for 16 lbs. of steel and coals. To Maister Antony, his expense during the boring. To women in the Passage, to help dig out of the earth the stock of the old culverin. Pinnace hire from the Passage to Fontarabia. Bread and wine to men and women who helped haul the culverin from the house of fondition to before the castle of Fontarabia, that it might be proved. For 12 lb. powder, put in at 2 times to cleanse him, 12 lb. for 1st shot, 13 lb. for the 2nd, and 14 lb. for the 3rd, a royal of Castile the lb., 51 royals = 4 ducats 29 shf. 6 gunstones, weighing 14 lb. each. 3 were shot, and the rest delivered to the Master of the Ordnance. For sending the culverin on board ship. For two testimonials of the sums which he had paid, one of which he sent to Maister Stille, 20 shf. To Sancho de Primaut for making a testimonial of the money paid to Maister Jacobo for 18 kyntalls of metal, &c., 12 shf. Christ. Sanckey, his servant, spent, tarrying in the court, ere he could receive the 58l. 10s. from 18 Ap. till 20 May, 40s. 6d.= 9 ducats. Spent last year, coming from Spain to Bristow, and thence to Windsor to the King, at which time he ordered me to have the gun bored bigger than the patron, 3l. 0s. 8d. = 3 ducats 30 shf. His expences for coming out of Spain to this city till 22 Aug., 10 ducats. Total, 228 ducats 8 shf. = 51l. 6s. 9d. Freight of the culverin from Spain to London, 4 marks = 53s. 4d. His servant Christopher paid 20d. to the clerk who wrote the obligation when John Wilford and Patrick Prous received the 58l. 10s.—1 Oct. In the presence of Mr. Uckesley, to the porters for weighing the culverin, &c.
Hopes that he shall be rewarded, in addition, for his labor.
Mem. "46 shamfrons for oone ducate. The ducaate is ... s. 6d. st., and 8(?) maravedies to oone shamfron."
Hol., signed, pp. 5.
R.O. ii. Receipt by Jacobo de Lerreuci de Palma, a Genoese, master founder, to Thos. Batcock, for a mass of copper which Batcok had in the shambles of Fontarabia, with other 12 quintals of copper. As Lerreuci had himself furnished 30 quintals of copper compounded with tin, for the culverin ordered by John Estill, there remain 12 quintals out of the said metal, 18 having been employed for the culverin. Has also received from Batcock 90 ducats of gold in payment, at the rate of 5 ducats a quintal, and 60 ducats for the making of the culverin. "And I declare that I would not have made the said culverin for any one else for 200 ducats of gold, yet I am content to have made it for you for the said 60 ducats, for the friendship I have for you, and for the honor and benefit I daily receive from your worship, and in order that the most serene King of England may see the work of my hand." Fontarabia, 6 July 1517. Witnesses: The Bachelor Juan Peres de Unça, Thos. Traves, and Willm. Vilfort, merchants of London, and M. de Lassarte, who signs for Lerreuci, he not being able to write. With notarial attestation below.
Sp., pp. 2. Endd. by Batcok.
iii. Testimonial of money paid to the workmen, at the rate of 5 chamfrons a day each, for casting, boring, proving and cleaning the guns. Fontarabia, 23 April 1518.
Spanish, pp. 3.
iv. Testimonial of money paid for the shooting of the culverin. Fontarabia, 18 April 1518.
Spanish, pp. 2.
All these endd. by Batcok.
23 April. 4109. For TH. LUDLOW.
Pardon for having killed Wm. Warham of Sevenok, Kent, in self-defence, 10 Oct. 8 Hen. VIII., at Knoll in Sevenok, in a house of Wm. Abp. of Canterbury, called "le kepers house." Westm., 23 April.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 21.
24 April.
Er. Ep. App. 311.
4110. ERASMUS to MORE.
Why should More strip the naked, and burthen those who are burthened already? John brought the horse, and lost it on the journey. Wonders at the coldness of his ancient patron Mountjoy: "sed uxor, opinor, et filius augent naturæ vitium." His only consolation at More's being brought to court is, that he will serve the best of kings; he is lost to Erasmus, and to letters. The Dukes of Cleves, Juliers and Nassau had taken measures for the safe disbandment of the impious thieves (the Black Band); and but for the sounding of a trumpet, no one knows how, not one of them would have perished. In the disorder a thousand of them were cut to pieces. John tells him he is to be received into More's family. Has not yet seen Linacre's lucubrations. Thomas Grey is very anxious to redeem some of his paternal lands from Colet: if More cannot help him, begs he will give him the best advice. Is to look, in the new edition of the Adagia, at Cum Bitho, &c., and Ut fici oculis, &c. Louvain, 1518.
24 April.
Er. Ep. App. 282.
4111. ERASMUS to TUNSTAL.
Has given up every thing to labor at his New Testament. Is surprised that Tunstal dislikes the word hyemare, so often used in Cæsar, and exaltare by Columella. Speaks of his pension and mode of payment. Is preparing for his journey, but has many doubts how he shall get into Germany. The scum of the Black Band has been dismissed: they were besieged. The peasantry thirsted for their destruction; a thousand and more were slain. Otherwise they would have been launched by these rulers at the heads of the defenceless. Travellers are in great danger. Julius Calvus has brought him a Theocritus, a Pindar, some fragments of Varro and Fronto. Regrets More's advancement at court. Has excused Tunstal to Budæus. Is sending John back to England, who is to be received into More's family. Louvain, 24 April 1518.
24 April.
Vit. B. XX. 88. B.M.
4112. MAXIMILIAN to [HENRY VIII.]
The Pope has sent him some articles, extracted from the consultations ... which were sent to his holiness upon the expedition to be undertaken against the Turks, to be observed by the Christian princes. Transmits copies to [Henry], though he believes the Pope has already sent them. Sees nothing to be altered in them. Begs [Henry] will send an ambassador to tell him what answer he is to return to the Pope, with power to deliberate at the convention about to be called by the Emperor at Augsburg on the subject of the expedition. Inspruck, 24 April 1518. Signature damaged.
P. 1.
24 April.
P.S.
4113. For RIC. MILLES of La Viese, Wilts, alias of Kingeswood, mercer, alias grocer.
Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Ric. Wingfeld, Deputy of Calais. Woodstock, 20 April 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 24 April.
24 April. 4114. For HEN. CORNEWALL.
Pardon for killing Hen. Teder, alias Walsshe, yeoman of the Crown, in selfdefence, who assaulted him in St. Martin's O'rgar, Bridge ward, London, as certified by Th. Barnewell, coroner, and Jas. Yarford and John Mundy, sheriffs of London. Westm., 24 April.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 2.
25 April.
Er. Ep. III. 16.
4115. ERASMUS to HENRY VIII.
The King's present was very agreeable to him, both for its own sake and that of the donor, whose court is an example to the rest of Christendom for learning and piety. Will be obliged to devote four months to editing the New Testament; after that, will be at the King's service. Louvain, 7 kal. Maias 1518.
25 April.
P.S.
4116. For ROB. LOYDE.
To be clerk of the works and repairs, during pleasure, in Denbigh castle, N. Wales, and in the [parks] there, and keeper of the gaol [called] "le Cheker ... " ...: on surrender of patent 27 July 1 Hen. VIII., granting ... to the said Robert. Woodstock, 25 April 10 Hen. VIII.
Very illegible.
26 April.
Galba, B. VI. 23. B.M.
4117. KNIGHT to [WOLSEY].
Lewis Marraton, who has been here these eight days, says the Emperor assembled yesterday the Estates of his dominions at Ispurge, and explained to them his extreme necessity, having mortgaged certain portions of his patrimony. After long debate they gave him 300,000 golden guyldyns to be paid in three years, which has put the Emperor in more tranquillity. The French King gives large bribes to win over the princes of Germany. He has given the French Queen's sister to one of the house of Brandenburg, to which two of the electors belong, viz. the Marquis and the Abp. of Mayence. He has the Count Palatine and the Duke of Wirtemberg in his favor, who have married two sisters of Duke William de Baviere, who is a burgess of Berne among the Swiss; but the Duke of Saxony, who is an enemy to the house of Brandenburg, and has not always done his duty to the Emperor, has humiliated himself, and sent his Chancellor to the Emperor. The Duke delivered a letter sent by Richmond for the King of England to Alamire, who has since been in France. Has heard from Alamire, since his return, that France supports 3,000 men of war in Denmark, and is willing to support 8,000; with what view he knows not. This is confirmed by a servant of Sir Guyot lately in France. Sir Guyot intends going himself to the frontier of France to inquire further: if the King wishes it, he will enter France, although it would be hazardous.
Lady Margaret told Knight today that the French King, as her ambassador writes, favors Richard de la Pole to create mischief. She thinks, however, he is rather preparing for an expedition against Naples. It is said the Pope's nephew will have by the French King 10,000 Swiss; that companies are now passing the mountains. Montegnye and the Audiencer have gone to Centrone (St. Tron) to treat with Robert de la Mark, but nothing is expected to come of it. A great diet is now held at Augsburg, but what is done is not yet known. Probably the Emperor has followed the example of the Pope, the French King and the King of Arragon, who levy money by an indulgence, pretending great fear of the Turk. Begs money for his diets, which expired at Easter, as he has been obliged to borrow. Mechlin, 26 April.
Hol., pp. 5, mutilated.
26 April.
R.O.
4118. SION to WOLSEY.
Sends the news to Matthew [Beccaria], for whom he begs credence. His adversaries do not sleep, and he will be watchful. Zurich, vi. kal. Maii 1518.Signed.
Lat., p. 1. Add.
26 April.
P.S.
4119. For the MONASTERY OF ST. JOHN, COLCHESTER.
Restitution of temporalities on the election of John Stoke as abbot, vice Wm. Sprotton, deceased. Windsor, 15 Feb. 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 26 April 10 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 17.
ii. Certificate by Richard Bp. of London of the validity of the above election. London, 12 Feb. 1517.
26 April. 4120. For the ABBEY OF WHITBYE.
Writ to the escheator of co. York, for restitution of the temporalities of the monastery of SS. Peter, Paul and Hilda, on election of Tho. Yorke as abbot, vice John Whitby, deceased. Westm., 26 April.
ii. Similar writs for Westml. and Linc.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 7.
26 April.
S.B.
4121. For SIR JOHN CUTTE.
Lease of the manor of Newport Pounde, Essex, parcel of the Duchy of Cornwall, for 20 years, at an annual rent of 28l. 6s. 8d. Del. Westm., 26 April 10 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1. m. 2.
26 April.
S.B.
4122. For EDW. BURMYNGHAM.
Livery of lands as son of Nicholas, son and heir of Wm. Burmyngham; also, livery to Th. Hall, and John and Th. Alen, seized to the said William's use. Del. Westm., 26 April 10 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 13.
26 April. 4123. For THOMAS son and heir of Thomas, brother and heir of Sir William, son and heir of TH. BEKWITH.
Inspeximus and confirmation of patent 15 Nov. 3 Hen. VII. inspecting and confirming for Wm. Bekwith charter 19 May 25 Hen. VI., granting to Th. Bekwith and heirs wreck of sea in his manor of Fyley, York. Westm., 26 April.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 6.
27 April.
Vesp. C. XIV. 201. B.M.
4124. JOHN CLERK to [WOLSEY].
Arrived at Woodstock yesterday: met the King riding out hunting. "He axed full heartily of your grace's welfare: the which when I had declared unto him, and made your commendations in my best manner, showing how that I had letters unto his grace from you, he said he would the sooner return, to the intent he might know the contents of them." After supper delivered the letters, with which the King was satisfied; and summoning his Council, the Dukes of Buckingham and Suffolk, Lovell and the Comptroller Marny, he "willed them to look upon the subscriptions of the same letter, and to consider your substantial dealing in that behalf." The King ordered him apart, "that in no wise he should make mention of London matters before his lords." He wished him also to say openly that Wolsey would be with them in five or six days. "It may like your grace, the King's grace was not only well contented with such order as you have taken in all matters, with the advice of his Council there, but marvellously commendeth, as well your wise, circumspect and substantial dealing, as your diligence and intolerable labors; and gave unto you openly, before all his Council, great lauds, commendations and right hearty thanks for the same, saying these words: "'That there is no man living that pondereth more the surety of his person and the common wealth of this his realm.'"
The King thinks it would be better to hold the next term at Coventry rather than Oxford, as the resort of suitors to Oxford might infect the town. He wishes Wolsey, as soon as business will allow, to repair to Woodstock; "for here is clear air, which his grace thinketh ye will like very well." Has communicated matters with Lovell and Marny; the former will be with Wolsey on Saturday, for reasons he knows. The King will sign the general warrant for making denizens; and will write, as Wolsey suggests, letters of consolation and thanks to the Mayor of London, according to the minutes sent. Woodstock, 27 April.
Hol., pp. 3. Add.: My Lord Cardinal's grace.
28 April.
R.O.
4125. JOHN CLERK to WOLSEY.
Master More has certified the King from Oxford, that three children are dead of the sickness, but none others. He has charged the mayor and the commissary in the King's name, "that the inhabitants of those houses that be and shall be infected shall keep in, put out wispes and bear white rods, according as your grace devised for Londoners." The King has ordered the matter to be debated in the Council, when More's device was approved of. It was discussed whether it would be better that the fair held in Austin Friars in Oxford, fourteen days after this, should be stopped or no, as it is thought that the resort of people thither from London and other infected places will make Oxford as dangerous as London, next term. "Also it was said in the said Council that in stopping and letting of the said fair, there should ensue grudges and murmurs amongst the King's subjects; specially in London, where they would think that men went about utterly to destroy them, if, with other their misfortunes, they should also be kept from their fairs and markets: and so, after great debating, the more part was in this opinion, that the said fair should not be stopped; notwithstanding, they concluded all to take your grace's advice in the matter." Master Lovell leaves tomorrow, but will not arrive in London till Saturday. Woodstock, 28 April.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
28 April. 4126. For NICH. JAXSON.
Appointment as weigher of wools, hides, tin and lead in the port of Newcastle on Tyne. Westm., 28 April.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 5.
28 April.
P.S.
4127. For RIC. COOKE alias COKE of Romford, Essex.
Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Ric. Wingfeld, Deputy of Calais. Woodstock, 27 April 10 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 28 April 8 (sic) Hen. VIII.
29 April.
Bud. Epist. 2.
4128. BUDÆUS to PACE.
Had not replied to the two letters received from Pace. Heard from him, then at Bruges, 9 Dec., that he was daily expecting the appearance of his book Dc Fructu Temporum. Heard afterwards that Pace was going on an embassy to Rome. Lately, Norroy herald (Normannia) from England, told Budæus that Pace had asked after him and proffered his services; and further informed him of Pace's great influence and popularity with the King. Speaks of himself and the great value he sets on his intimacy with foreign scholars. Has learnt from Pace's book, that Linacre, More, Tunstal and Latymer are their common friends. Praises Henry for the favor he shows to men of letters, and the pleasure he takes in their company. Contrasts the French with the English courts in this respect. Notwithstanding the accomplishments of Francis I., his thoughts are turned in a different direction, "sinistro quodam fato." Has not for twelve years been living at the court. Speaks of his own history and his reputation for Greek. What he thinks of a court life Pace will learn from his book, De Asse. Is never there except when the King is at Paris, where he has not been for a year. As to Pace's exhortation to peace, and a stricter alliance between the two nations as conducive to their mutual interests, he cannot speak as Pace can, as he does not share the confidence of the King; but the French say that England is not sincere in that wish; that England is only waiting to put Tournay in greater security, and then it will pay little attention to treaties. Thinks Francis is inclined to peace. Desires his remembrance to Linacre, Tunstal and More. Paris, 3 kal. Maias 1518.
29 April.
S.B.
4129. For THOMAS CARDINAL OF YORK, Chancellor.
Authority to grant letters patent of denization under the Great Seal to persons sueing for the same. Woodstock, 29 April 10 Hen. VIII.
29 April.
S.B.
4130. For SIR EDW. NEVYLL.
Lease, for 21 years, of the custody of the hundred of Shedlyngton and Lyghfeld, Kent, parcel of the possessions of Margaret late Countess of Richmond and Derby, at the annual rent of 26s. 8d. and 3s. 4d. increase. Del. Westm., 29 April 10 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 1.
29 April. 4131. COMMISSION OF SEWERS.
Linc.—Wm. Bp. of Lincoln, Wm. Lord Willoughby, Wm. Abbot of Bradeney, _ Abbot of Berlynges, John Constable, the Dean and Chapter of St. Mary's Cathedral, Lincoln, the Prior of St. Katharine's near Lincoln, Wm. Smyth, archdeacon of Lincoln, Edw. Derby, archdeacon of Stowe, Sir Rob. Brudenell, Sir John Husee, Sir Rob. Dymmock, Sir Wm. Tirwhit, Sir Th. Burgh, jun., Sir Wm. Hanssard, mayor of Lincoln, John Hennege, Geo. Fitzwilliam and Rob. Dighton; for the district between the bridge of Torkesey and the water of Brayford, near Lincoln. Westm., 29 April.
Pat. 10 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 2d.
30 April.
R.O.
4132. SILVESTER BP. OF WORCESTER to HENRY VIII.
Wolsey has explained to him the King's mind respecting the Turkish expedition and other matters contained in his last letters. Will take care to fulfil the King's wishes to the uttermost. Rome, 30 April., 1518.Signed.
Lat., p. 1. Add.
April.
Vit. B. IV. 109. B.M.
4133. _ to _
Is to thank Wolsey in the Pope's name for his advice. The Pope has greater faith in his majesty than in all other princes. In all his doings, and especially in the congress with other princes this summer, the Pope has seen the King and Wolsey's devotion to the Holy See. Needs not repeat the negotiations "per eos quos scitis" with the Pope, as they have been mentioned in his previous letters. As the Pope has in Wolsey such a member of the Holy Church, he cannot do better in his government than follow Wolsey's advice. The French illtreated the papal ambassadors on his sending thither Alexander. (fn. 2) Is to tell Wolsey that the Pope has adhered to his advice against creating a cardinal at the instigation of France, as England would always interpose in behalf of the Holy See, which has the more enraged the French. He can at any moment kindle a fire in the papal states.
The Pope begs to delay the matter of the legateship for a time, that he may not needlessly insult France by conceding to one power what he has already denied to another. That Wolsey might be certain that he should have the legateship, and more if it were not prejudicial to the Holy See, the Pope has caused a brief to be drawn up for Wolsey, and credentials for the person addressed;—has followed Wolsey's advice of interposing with the Swiss to prevent their joining France. The Pope will keep secret Wolsey's advice. These letters will be sent by the papal ambassador with the Emperor and Raphael de Medici.
P.S.—News has come that the Pope has left Rome for the neighbourhood, and therefore the brief cannot be sent at present. Is to put himself in correspondence with the King and Wolsey.
Lat., badly mutilated, and the writing faint; pp. 3.
R.O. 4134. SUFFOLK to WOLSEY.
Thanks him for his loving words to his servant. The French Queen cannot depart from the court so soon as she was appointed. It has pleased God "to wyesset her wyet a nagu, the wyche has taken her grace hewarre therd day iiij. tyemes wyree scharpe." The King's "fueseunes" (physicians) take marvellous good heed unto her, and the King's kindness takes away "a gryth par of her payne." Woodstock.
Begs credence for his servant Wyelche.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To me Lord Kardynall es grace.
R.O. 4135. HENRY VIII. to JOHN ABP. OF ARMAGH and THOMAS (JOHN ?) LORD BARNES.
Instructions on their appointment as ambassadors to the King Catholic in Spain.—1. Are to congratulate him on his prosperous voyage,—at which the King is delighted, reputing him for his principal confederate—and his favorable reception by his subjects. Expects from their union the happiest results for repressing disorders and protecting Christendom. 2. The King is resolved to assist him with all his power and confirm his estate; and hearing lately of sundry assemblies made by Francis in France, Gelderland, and the countries of Robert de la Marck, sent warning of the same to the Low Countries, offering assistance, of which he supposes the King of Spain has been advertised by his governors and commissioners. 3. Desires that whatever treaties be made by either parties shall be mutually communicated, agreeably to which the King has ordered his ambassadors to show his brother the overtures lately made him by the Bp. of Paris and Mons. de la Guishe, and his answer. With regard to the late peace between England and France, as the King's subjects have been ill treated at sea, he had sent to France desiring recompence should be made, according to existing treaties. On this Francis sent over the Bp. of Paris and Mons. la Guiche, ostensibly only to take measures for repressing piracy, but, as it appeared when they came, to urge the delivery of Tournay, saying that it was of little value to the King, and yet offering large sums for its surrender. As the King was unwilling to give it up in a manner which could prejudice the King of Castile, overtures were made for giving him previous notice, and not putting any garrison in it. These conditions, the French said, were unnecessary, the alliance between them and the King of Castile being so cordial. At last the French ambassadors agreed to refer it to their King, who, finding that he cannot obtain his purpose on the conditions proposed by them, is making preparations for war by sea and laud, hoping to recover it by that means. The King trusts Charles will aid him in case of invasion, on application being made to the Archduchess by the King's deputy of Tournay or Calais, and thanks him for the orders he has already given on the subject, as notified by the Spanish ambassador. 4. The King is much rejoiced to hear of Charles's determination inviolably to observe his oath, and the virtuous inclination that he bears to truth and faithful dealing. 5. The Pope has sent to England for counsel in resisting the Great Turk. The King understands he has made a similar request to Charles. Before any expedition can succeed, a universal peace must be established, and the King desires to know Charles's opinion; for though the Pope has made little mention of England or the King of Castile, but in manner committed the leading of the Christian armies to the Emperor, the French King and the King of Portugal, if Henry and Charles be firmly united and their forces well considered, the Pope will show more regard for them. The ambassadors shall take with them a copy of the Pope's book of articles sent to the King, and show his said devices with the King's answer. 6. They are to thank Charles for his good will to the marriage between the Pope's kinsman and the daughter of Gonsalvo Fernando. This will more strengthen the league between the Pope, the Emperor, England and Castile, than if that alliance had been made in France. The Pope has not only ratified that league, but bound himself to its inviolable observance.
When brought to the presence of the Lady Eleanor they are to make the King's commendations to her, and thank her and Don Fernando for their goodwill to England. They shall take letters of credence to Chievres and the Chancellor, and tell the former that the King regards him as his kinsman, and has such confidence in him that he has commissioned them to declare to him their whole charge, and ask his counsel. They shall also congratulate him on the favor he is in with the King of Castile, "and his politic conducting of the said King" safely to Spain.
Draft, corrected by Ruthal, pp. 30. Portions of the document found apart.
*In a corner of a blank leaf at the end is written by Ruthal: "The charge of Clarenseux."
R.O. 4136. 2. ARTICLE relating to the above.
"Sixthly, the King's said ambassadors shall say" that his grace is informed of the intrigues of the French King for the marriage of the Pope's nephew to some lady of France, and for an alliance with some kinswoman of the King of Castile, If the former take effect the Pope will lean entirely on France, which will thus have Milan, Genoa, Venice, Ferrara and all Italy at her beck. Thus the new confederation of the Pope, the Emperor, the King "and his said brother," will be clearly frustrate" on the Pope's part, who will never give aid against France, and Naples will be in danger. Francis has been complaining to the Pope of the breach of the treaty of Noyon. It is believed he will send Bourbon over the mountains, and raise new disturbances in the Low Countries; "for which purpose the King's grace is informed that the French King hath obtained of the Lady Vandome the towns of Newport, Dunkyrk and Gravelyn, intending to set garrisons in the same." The King knows also what the French have openly said about Navarre. It would therefore be better to provide a marriage for the Pope's kinsman in Spain. Notwithstanding the fair words given by the French, if the King of Castile marry the daughter of Portugal they will do him all the injury they can. Henry is moved to send this warning out of friendship to the King of Castile, and has written to the Pope to dissuade him from the French alliance. When the ambassadors have an opportunity of speaking to the King alone they shall tell him that Francis is not much attached to his Queen, who is of small stature and not beautiful, and as she is now with child there may be some danger in her delivery; on which account Francis, hearing of the singular beauty of the Lady Eleanor, Charles's eldest sister, and considering her prospects in relation to the succession of Spain, is endeavouring to prevent her being married into Portugal, that if his own Queen die he may marry her. And though this might seem an honorable match, Charles and his brother Ferdinand might be in danger from conspiracies against their lives. The King therefore urges Charles to give up the French marriage, and ally himself without loss of time with the house of Portugal, or elsewhere, so that he may shortly have an heir.
As the King of Castile's councillors may be blinded by France, in order to stop "the said enterprise" it will be well to give secret notice of it to the great lords of Spain, who are not inclined to France, and to consult with Sir John Stile, on their arrival, to what nobles it ought to be discovered.
Here follows an intended insertion in a previous part of the draft: "And here the said ambassadors, making recapitulation and rehearsal unto the King of Castile's council of the great charges and expenses that his grace hath borne and daily sustaineth" in fortifying Tournay and building the citadel there, rather for the surety of Charles's dominions than for his own profit, shall discover to him the overture, made by the Spanish ambassador here resident, that the King Catholic should contribute to the maintenance of a garrison there. In consequence of this the King has forborne to treat with the French for the delivery of the town, and has put him in complete despair of it. Nevertheless, considering the manifold expenses of the King of Castile at this his first entry in his dominions, the King is unwilling to burden him with any new charge, but advises him to apply part of the money which he has appointed for the maintenance of his spears in the Low Countries to the support of the English garrison in Tournay.
Draft, in Ruthal's hand, pp. 4.
Vit. B.XX. 110.
B. M.
4137. MINUTES in RUTHAL'S hand.
"The expedition to the Kyng of Castyll."
"Letters of thanks to the said King, with credence ... rejoicing for the peaceable possession of his realm.
"Item, to thank him for the perseverant good mind that he bears t[o the King, and his]offers made for the defence of Tournay, and the answer given ... in that, making to him assurance that the King's grace shall not [only make] amity with him, but also augment the same, extending tha ... of loving offers and clauses.
"Item, the legate's charge concerning the universal peace, with a truce of five ye[ars].
"Item, to touch the inconvenients of the truce.
"Item, to declare the offers made by the French King for amity and alliance.
"Item, to show that the King's grace would in no wise condescend thereunto till he was assured by the French King that he was determined to live in peace with all p[rinces], and not to marche [against] any prince, but be content [with his] awne.
"Item, to show the personages that shall come in embassade.
"Item, how the King's grace mindeth to make a league defensive for the conservation of thesta[te] of all such princes as shall be contrahents in the same. Wherein the King's grace will as assuredly provide for the K. of Castile, and all his lands and dominions now possessed as for his own.
"Item, the Pope, the Emperor, the King's grace, the French King and the King of Castile, shall be principal contrahents in the same league.
"Item, to declare particularly the effect of the said league.
"Item, to touch the not retaining of the Swiss, and that no ambassador shall be amongst them from any prince, &c.
"Item, that none of the contrahents shall wage or entertain any of other subjects.
"Item, that such as will require hereafter to enter and be comprised within this league shall have the benefit of the same, so that they enter within a certain time thereunto to be prefixed, and shall for their defence enjoy the benefit of the same [at] their proper costs and charges.
"Item, to defer the answer of the legate there being, till this league tending to the universal peace of all Christendom be established, or that the end thereof may be known.
"Item, to touch the occasion of both by reason of Tournay, and sending of the Duke [of] Albany into Scotland.
"Item, the honorable cause of the deliverance of Tournay with the King's daughter.
"Item, to touch the reasons why Tournay cannot conveniently be delivered [to the King of] Castile.
"Item, what provision the King's grace hath *** send his commission for the concluding of this league with all [haste].
"[Item, to touch the occas]ion of the personal meeting with the French King, with thanks therefor ... the declaration of the King's mind touching the crown imperial [and the] Cardinal's letters.
"Item, ... the Pope's mind towards the King's grace and the King of Castile [touch]ing the alliance that he hath, by means of his nephew, with France."
Pp. 2.

Footnotes

  • 1. A letter of Erasmus of the same date, printed above, p. 1018, probably belongs to this year, 1518.
  • 2. Very mutilated here.