Henry VIII: December 1516, 11-20 | British History Online

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

'Henry VIII: December 1516, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518, (London, 1864) pp. 832-847. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol2/pp832-847 [accessed 26 April 2024]

December 1516



11 Dec. Vit. B. XIX. 346. B. M.	2661. [SIR ROB. WINGFIELD] to HENRY VIII.
	Wrote last from [this] town informing [him] how the [Emperor] had taken his oath. So much has to be done here that the Emperor will [stay] longer than he intended. Since the 8th he h[as held] divers councils, at which none were present but the two Cardinals, except at the first [when Wingfield was] with them, where the Emperor left them to discuss divers propositions he had made. After half an hour and m[ore he] returned, and the Cardinal Gource replied so forcibly urging the points [they] had concluded, that he so fully satisfied the other ... me with the same, that Wingfield esteems him specially trustworthy in the great ma[tters] now in discussion; "for no man could touch all such matter and persons, [their] removing, separation or punishment, mo[re] than he did." Thinks the Emperor was of the same [mind]. It was Lady's Eve before Ja. de Banyssis arrived. He has been and is ill, so the Emperor's ratifications for the King and the King Catholic must be completed here.
	The Emperor has desired Courteville, the ambassador of the King Catholic, to go to the Swiss, and will send to the King by post for instructions. Courteville makes great difficulty about going. The delay in sending an ambassador from the King Catholic to the Swiss has done great harm, "for of that King they rather despair than otherwise." The Emperor has expected an answer these two days to the letters Wingfield sent to the King by a messenger. Consequently Wingfield and the Cardinal Sion have been kept from writing, a day longer than they intended. Upon Henry's answer the Emperor will start, and the Cardinal declare more openly a new demand of the Emperor's, which Wingfield merely mentions, because the Cardinal writes very fully of that and other things to Wolsey in eipher ... in the Nether Elsace, 11 Dec. 1516.
	Add.. To the King's highness.
	Hol., pp. 3, mutilated.
11 Dec. R. O.	2662. The CARDINAL OF SION to WOLSEY.
	Hopes Wolsey has understood from the two letters he wrote since coming here, how much the Emperor has been gratified by the writer's negotiations in his behalf with England. The Emperor awaits Henry's determination touching the ships demanded before the writer's arrival, in order to leave for Flanders, as also for the 30,000 Rhenish florins, of which he wrote in his last. Has promised them in the King's name, and hopes the King will not be displeased. The Emperor ratified the league, with music and trumpets, on 8 Dec., in the presence of Gurk, the Bp. of Feltri, the Papal and Spanish ambassadors. Warns him the Gallicisers are displeased and will sow tares. As 40,000 crowns are still wanting to pay up the arrears of the soldiers, and his subjects in the Tyrol refuse to aid, and the King Catholic has not ratified the treaty, the Emperor has resolved to place Verona in the hands of the latter, but not with any intention of entering in the treaty of Noyon. or of surrendering Verona to the French. He promises to do all that is requisite to promote a conference between the King of England and the Regents of the King Catholic.
	He is obliged to make use of this dissimulation to prevent the machinations of those who might do harm at that court. Begs the King and Wolsey will regard his conduct in no other light. He has not the least goodwill towards the French, but will adhere firmly to his promises. He has a large army on foot. The Duke of Gueldres has submitted to the Emperor; will take a wife from him, and investiture for the dukedom of Friesland. This will secure the King Catholic, and strike a blow against France. The Dukes of Cleves and Juliers will likewise join. The Emperor has written to the King Catholic to ratify the league. The writer will do what he can to induce the Pope to be a party. Cardinal Gurk is much delighted with the letters he has received from the King. Wolsey will see what sort of brief the writer has received from the Pope, at the suggestion of the French. His holiness has given him a scorpion in return for bread, as Wolsey is wont to say. Begs Wolsey and the King to write to Rome in his behalf. Hagenow, 11 December 1516. Signed.
	Lat., part cipher, pp. 3. Add.
R. O.	ii. Decipher of the above in an official hand; some blanks supplied and misreadings corrected in Wolsey's.
	Lat., pp. 4.
12 Dec. Galba, B. IV. 250. B. M.	2663. TUNSTAL to [HENRY VIII.]
	Received his letter dated Windsor the 5th, and with it one to the King and two to Chievres and the Chancellor, [in answer to] what he had written on the 25th. The day he received them was a great solemnity. Thought best to apply, first, to chievres and the Chancellor, who are paramount, afterwards to the King. Yesterday had an interview with them, in which he contradicted the rumor that the King of England wished to interfere with their authority, and said the King of England was too much concerned in the real interests of their master to give light credence to such things. Tunstal then proceeded to enumerate instances in which the King of England had reason to be satisfied, and did not desire their removal, specially as he knew their friendly disposition, and hoped they would continue as friends.
	Having thus mitigated their displeasure, proceeded to discuss the confirmation, and remove their difficulties respecting invasion, showing the King's right to [the French] pension as part of his crown; that the treaty had been already passed by their commissioner in England, and that the confirmation could not be refused without manifest perjury. They replied that, notwithstanding the information they had received, they would believe the King's deeds; but that he and the Emperor had one with them who would move their stomachs to their particular inclinations and do no good. On being pressed, they named Hesdin with your grace, and Lewis [Maraton] with the Emperor. As to the confirmation, they said the King would take that resolution which was conformable with his honor, and not allow Henry to suffer wrong.
	When he delivered the letters to the King, Tunstal contradicted the report of the King's wish, to treat with the Emperor and interfere with his governance; mentioning instances in which he had shown his friendship in preserving Charles' dominions, especially in Italy; that at the Emperor's wish he had consented to establish a stricter amity, and all that had been said about interference was only a fiction. "Over this I showed him how, if he would know his true friends f[rom] his feigned friends, if he had any such, there was a good and sure way to know them both, all reports set apart. And [upon this] the King looked friendly upon me, hearkening what then I [would say]. So I declared that there was, nor could be, no surer way than [to] follow the counsel of Christ in the gospel, which showed [that] like as a tree that is known to be good or evil by such fruit as [it] bringeth forth, and not by the leaves, which oft time in an evil tree be fairer to the eye than in a good." Had his master ever desired to diminish the possessions of the King of Arragon? Had he ever prevented him from taking full possession of his grandfather's dominions? As Henry would stop his ears against all such malicious reports, he hoped the King would do the same. He then urged the confirmation. The King replied, he believed what Tunstal said was true, but he had not yet determined what to do.
	Mentioned in his last that the Bp. of Colonna, the Emperor's ambassador, had given offence at his audience. He is called "seditious and oultrecuydaunte" by the French. Thinks he is sincere. Has heard from Sir Rob. Wingfield that the Emperor has taken his oath for the league. Hears that the ambassador of Arragon, John de la Nuca, has been dismissed, as Lady Margaret is extremely displeased with him, and insists on his removal. Tunstal has offered to make his peace. Has not followed the King's instruction to tell the King's ministers there that if any harm arise from their refusal of the confirmation he will hold them responsible. Whatever her words, the deeds of Lady Margaret show no dissatisfaction to England. Hesdin is not to be trusted. Brussels, 12 Dec.
	P. S.—Understands that the King has conferred upon Chievres the admiralship of Naples, worth 4,000 ducats. Signed.
	Pp. 18, mutilated.
12 Dec. P. S.	2664. For the ABBEY OF ST. SAVIOUR, ST. PETER and ST. PAUL, ATHELNEY.
	Assent to the election of Ric. Wroxall, prior, as abbot, vice John Wellington, deceased. Windsor Castle, 12 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII.
	ii. Petition of Wm. Warmystre, sub-prior, and the Convent, for the above: to be presented by John Stokes. 2 Dec. 1516.
13 Dec. Giust. Desp. II. 19.	2665. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the COUNCIL OF TEN.
	Dr. Clif (Knight ?), "a prudent man and a good Italian," will write word when he departs. Venice will be debited all the expences of the expedition if she do not desist. A French secretary, who has been resident in Scotland, tells him a truce has been agreed upon with Albany till the 27th of next month. The annual tribute paid by France to the King has lately been forwarded. London, 13 Dec.
13 Dec. R. O.	2666. ANTH. INGE to WOLSEY.
	Thanks him for the preferment (l'aumantation du bien) he has obtained for him from the King, and that which he has given him on his own account. As he considers the scarlet die of France more brilliant than that of England, has endeavoured to send him two scarlet hats. Desires to know if they are satisfactory, that he may send others. Otherwise, if Wolsey will send one of his old ones, they shall be made according to his pleasure. Calais, 13 Dec. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: Mons. le Cardinal [d]Yort, Chancellier d'Angleterre.
13 Dec. Vit. B. XIX. 348. B. M.	2667. [SIR ROB. WINGFIELD] to [HENRY VIII.]
	Wrote last to [Henry] ... month. If his writings and acts had been valued and believed in time, the "building upon which he has spent his time" would not have been so disturbed as it is, and the order which he expected in the same is not likely to appear so fully as he had hoped. Begs the King to accept his acts in good part, "what chaunce [may befall] hereafter." Yesterday he and Sion having heard from the Low Countries "that the fame is there, the Emperor to have accepted the peace of Noyon," and is to meet the French and Catholic Kings at Camereey, the Card. Sion and Wingfield desired an audience, which they had about 7 o'clock yesterday evening. The Emperor first asked if they had had any news from the King or his daughter since last he saw them. They said they hourly expected the messenger sent to the King. He then told them that he had heard from a private friend in Rome that there were negotiations between the Pope and the French King, and that there was some difficulty, for though the Pope had granted the King the "pragmatica sanctio" over all his realm, and "thereto a dysme of all the clergie, and over that no benefice shall pass without his permission, making the Bp. of Aquis Judge therein," the King asks, (1) to have 50,000 fl. in a "friendly loan;" (2) to receive from Florence 50,000 [duc]ats a year, and 200,000 ducats for four years, "which [they h]ave abstained to pay;" (3) that the Pope desist from molesting the Duke of Far[rara. The Emperor] said that the Pope was th ... a secret ambassador to the King of France, spec[ially requesting him] to forbear from aiding the sa[id Duke] against him, when he will consent to the other [points] and join him in a league. All which the Emperor shewed to be much "d ... to have great need of quick and holsom remedy."
	The Cardinal Sion was then asked to declare the business on which he [desired] an audience. He declared what advice from the Low Countries he had had, which he said he did not [believe], "for though he knew well that p[overty] constrained his majesty to deliver Verona into his [nephew's] hands," he did not doubt that he would see the danger to the whole of Christendom which would ensue if the treaty of Noyon should take effect. The Emperor took "God to his judge" that he had done his uttermost to save Verona and break the [treaty of] Noyon, and that his efforts would not have failed if others had done their best in time. He then made a "marvelous discourse, in which was comprised all [suc]h desires as he had made unto your highness since the month of June last past," and the sending of Hesdin, with the answers received from Wingfield and his ambassadors. He said the delay in provision of the sums required by him had given the enemy an advantage in negotiation; that he sent Villynger to the King Catholic to accept the treaty of Noyon, provided he retained Roverett and Rypa, when he was "despaired by the demeaning of Master Pace," and the answers he got from Henry in June before he sent Hesdin. At first the French and Venetians would not consent to leave Roverett and Rypa, which pleased him right well: for then he had received much comfortable aid and news from Henry by Hesdin; but afterwards Henry seemed to be somewhat refrigerate, and would not bind himself to pay [as much as] the Emperor wanted for his journey to the Low Countries. Subsequently the enemy ... "and astute, not only condescended to [leave] Roverett and Rypa, but also made ... so that the Cath. King ex ... the said commission sent by his said treasurer ... with which his majesty said to be nothing con[tented] .. [he] trusted to have holden the same in disputation, [to know if] he should consent or not," until he mi[ght have] been in the Low Country himself, and spoken person[ally] with Henry and his nephew; "so th[at he] might have growndid his matter surely uppon th ... or uppon that other; and that as yet he hath a[ssented] no farther, howbeit he seeth that his poverty [owing to the slack consenting to his desires, is far to weeyke [to be a match for] the diligence and malicious astuce of the enemy." Nevertheless, it shall be clearly seen he will do his utmost to break or resist the enemy's enterprise. He prayed them to wait till the messenger came, and [that] they would not write, for after he had answer from Henry he would reply to them so as to co[ntent] Henry and them. As the [coming] of the messenger is uncertain, Wingfield writes and sends another letter of the Cardinal [Sion] to [Wolsey] in cipher. The [Card.] Gurck desires to be remembered to the King, and to say "that he will not fail to do you honor and pleasure." Hagenaw, 13 Dec. 1516.
	Hol., pp. 6, mutilated.
13 Dec. R. O.	2668. SION to WOLSEY.
	"Trinis meis significavi r^mæ d.v. meam receptionem magnam, optimamque dispositionem Cæsareæ majestatis et gratuitum animum erga Regiam majestatem et r^mam d. v., et quod omnia libere, recte etiam quasi supra quam desiderari queat, implere et perficere vult, petit et intendit, quod ex eo maxime elicere potest d. v. et indubie sperare, cum non solum ad P. Car. descendere ac R. m. colloqui satagit, verum usque in Angliam trajicere, si id melius censitum erit, fidentissime R. m. personali visitatione regnum totum decurrere R. m. et periculis trajectionis maris sumptibusque desuper faciundis exemptam facere; se autem cum R. m. per omnia ita connectere corde, animo, institutis et factis, ut nihil intimius postulari queat. Præterea, nisi omnia hæc, et per me dicta, et tractata, et agitata, et jamdudum oblata, implere, stabilire et libere firmare volet Cæsar, non personaliter comparere, vel seipsum totum usque ad intima regni et in totam potestatem R. m. crederet et conferre auderet, sicuti ante meum reditum per propriam postam R. m. d. v. perdnuntiatum fuit; cujus reditum ac desuper condecentem resolutionem Regiam ac r^mæ d. v. expectantes expectamus unacum Cæsare, et videretur mihi d. v. et R. m. debere præmittere oratores; quoniam si consulant trajici, et dum vel non ita ad consilium faciet Cæsar, reliqua omnia itineri parata sunt. Scripsi deinde quomodo, ut Cæs. iter voluntas et descensus impleri ac sine quacumque irritatione perfici possit, orator R. m. et ego nos obligavimus nomine R. m. et d. v. quod, infra quindecim dies a data præmissorum, decem milia Rhenensium consignarentur in Anverbia, ad manus cujusdam equitis; et inde habito colloquio cum R. m. essent persolvenda alia viginti milia pro residuis expensis more et reditus; et istis mediantibus totum iter residuaque rebus conducendis concludendisque necessaria, possint legitime adimpleri. Forte præsumptionis vel temeritatis nimiæ nos arguere volent R. m. et d. v., sed summa rerum necessitate et qualitate inspecta, id facere aut pati omnia ruere, coacti fuimus; sed neque pari consideratione fecisse pœnitet, rogantes ut R. m. et d. v. ita implere cuncta non differant; nam hic nisi decem milia sorti ponuntur, residua colloquio habito dabuntur; quæ sine promissione etiam nostra, R. m. ess[e]t, ut non ambigimus, etiam largitura multo majora.
	"Sed ne videar in solis verbis me figere, rationes adducendas insuperabiles disposui. Supra omnia R. m. videtur desiderare quod regimen circa P. Carolum, ademptis pessimis, mutetur; quod alius quam Cæsar sine ruina totius facere potest nemo; aut Gallus omnia absorbebit. Videtur quoque Cæsaris benignitas et motus animi in incerto pendere et timeri ne juxta rei expedientiam in his agat; quæ si impleverit Cæsar recte, et fœdus defensivum firmum non solum erit, quod nunc illi regentes renuere videntur, cum nihil in rebus humanis rebus suis servandis P. Carol. salubrius posset desiderari, quin immo et offensivum; et reliqua omnia executiva institui haberique indubie poterunt; et hæc nisi manu Cæsaris fiant confusio aderit non modica rebus omnibus; et ergo spes indubia et certum quod omnia Cæsar perficiet recte, quia se consilio totum auspiciisque R. m. credere vult. Proinde si cum malignis illis pietate vel dissimulatione uti, aut Gallorum practicis se immergere volet Cæsar, cum non desint qui Cæs. Maj. ultricem timent eique varia offerunt, immo ad conventum cum Gallis in Cameraco ac ad condividendam dicunt paratum Italiam, et ad amplectanda oblata persuadere et conducere contendunt; neque deficerent modi expensarum (?) et pecuniæ, ut deficiunt. Et quia ad tales practicas et eorum vota [an]nuere non vult, mille pericula, offendicula, et adinventiones infinitas, ad Cæsaris animum comprimendum iterque irritandum, objiciunt; immo modis omnibus suis progressibus moram addere, tantisque necessitatibus extenuatum iri conantur; prout cum Verona fecerunt; ut quod [nec] ratione nec fraudibus queunt, id necessitate, quæ sæpe etiam ad indecentia cogit, consequantur.
	"Et si recte r^ma d. v. ponderet cuncta, nescio nisi omnia sorti et non moderamini rationabili committere velimus, si melior modus sive remedium excogitari queat. Si etenim de animo Cæsaris est loquendum, est optimus; si de constantia, est insuperabilis; si de fide, est recta; si de consilio, vult se totum R. m. credere; si de promissis, vult ultra ex[s]olvere; si de removendis malis, est lacessitus infinitis injuriis, depressus malis; si de conditione injuriarum in sanguine in filio, in seipso, in regnis et dominiis, in honore et fama quasi ait; etenim pro 300,000 ducatis Gallos Venetosque, a se Caroloque dominiorum terrarum momento sustulisse dolet; in-gemissit ad lachrimas; perstitit octo annis in bello solus, relictus a Papa, ab imperio, ab Italia; omnia sua, redditus, arces, dominia, particularia, obligavit, impignoravit; reliquit eum Car. dudum secum dissimulans; et nunc reliquere supditi, milites (?) in Verona, Hispani maxime, quibus aliquando non nisi per octo dies stipendia defuere, nullo habito respectu jurisjurandi, nationis, honestatis, non solum cessarunt a servitiis, sed turpiter ad Gallos Venetosque declinavere, illicoque contra Cæsarem pugnavere; sed qui in urbe mansere omnia minari ruinis, prædis et violentiis deturpare, et Veronam vendere, et Gallis Venetos prodere palam dicere auserunt; quæ omnia sustinuit expectando si undequaque auxilia venirent, vel posset expeditio in hostes fieri.
	Id octo continuis mensibus quæsivit, petivit, præstolatus est; tamen etsi Veronam in manibus Caroli fuerit coactus relaxare, ne milites prodentes experiretur, tamen necdum Noioni nec cum Gallo pacta subire, aut oblatis Gallorum aurem præbere voluit, nescio quid non temptaverit, sustinuaritque; usque adeo ut iter ad R. m. nequeat propriis su[m]ptibus facere, et a gubernatoribus Caroli, ut dixerim, ita nolit petere, licet dummodo tutos se ab ejus ira sperare possent, omnia facerent. Cogitat potius ista a R. m., cum qua unum esse, cui omnia bona, eundemque extollere cupit, exposcere confidenter; ut valeat condecenter omnibus malis lumen et terminus constitui. Dicet d. v. ubi manent quadraginta milia scutorum restituenda, cum Verona relaxetur, et videntur non fuisse implicita servandæ Veronæ Dico quod, si cogatur Cæsar eam relaxare, ex pecuniis sibi propterea dandis juravit mihi in tre[u]gam solutionem facere. Cæsar exposuit succurrendæ Veronæ 80,000 ducatorum, et erat militibus in totidem debitor, et in istis mensibus aucto numero militum, et Carolus nulla auxilia præstabat, nec a R. m. expetere ulteriora valeret, choactus fuit mortem pro vita et venenum pro medicina in hoc sumere. Primo Hedim inde tertio misit sperans expeditionem fieri; demum dedit propterea mandatum, et meum ante reditum Carolo super Verona conclusit; sed si verba seminentur Cæsarem tractatum Noioni, vel in oblatis per Gallum, aceptase vel convenisse, dico absque veritate id penitus esse vel fieri; immo ea de causa cum R. m. acturus, reparaturus, apud Carolum omnia instituturus, et ejus iter in Hispanias maturaturus: nemo etenim est qui tot injuriis a Gallis lacessitus, tot malis et damnis in se ipso, in filiis utriusque sexus, in regnis, et statubus affectus.
	Præterea nemo mortalium tam totiens perfidiam, perjuria, versutias et fallacias Gallorum, ita ut Cæsar expertus est; qui supra infideles et demones Gallos odit; cujus omnes motus, cogitatus, consilia et verba, nihil aliud continent de Gallo, nisi ut se vindicet, et quomodo Gallorum totalem ruinam procuret; et prop- tera ad Flandriam ire festinat, et minime[?] titubare videtur, non est dubitandum. Tantummodo R. m. et d. v. obstat resolutio, et quod illi optimo Cæsari tam difficile creditur, et fidetur; et quod aliter fieri non potest; quia expensa deest, et mora germinet infinita damna, quia non sortiturum effectum fœdus Papa et formidant Veneti. Et licet Cæsar rectoribus Caroli, et aliis scripserit acerrime intentissimeque, forte non patientur illi maligni; nam sunt Galli plus quam Galli ipsi; et si suo domino pericula, ignominiam, et damna addere contra naturam, fas et debitum, illi non verentur, R. m., quem non diligunt, [non] deferrent. Taceo quod Papæ et ecclesiæ servitutis et tyrannidis de proximo Gallo periculum imminet.
	Dico, ergo, rogo, obtestor, et deprecor, et si valeo conjuro r^mam d. v. quatenus citissime resolvi curet, moras tollat, nec non istam modicam expensam, respective ne tot sumptus, tot expensæ frustra, et labores, et practica[s], et tam sancte conducta fœdera, sed et reliqua tanti momenti, honoris, frugi et incrementi, R. m., divinitus ordinata, non depereant, polliceri, exsolvereque dignetur et procuret. Nam et ducatorum(?) alia decem milia persolvere in Treveri convenit, quæ non istum numerum vel ratam intrant; seque R.m. resolvat; Oratores et mille arcitendentes præmittat ad trajiciendum, si Cæsar velit in Angliam potius descendere; necdiffidat aut differrat in illis mittendis; quo facto aderit Cæsar omnia facturus; cui ad latus quotidie adsunt adversarii dicentes R. m. neque in hac modica expensa, nec in reliquis, subventuram. Suscitant ducem de Wittemberg et alios ad rebellionem, ut neque servent pacem vel interjectas conditiones; quo cogant Cæsarem ut istis immergatur, et a descensu desistat. Multa scripsi, dicerem libentius plura. Deus novit quam fideliter ago, quam recte consistunt res, quam bene ambulat Cæsar, et sitit implere; nec curat d. v. si qua alia scripta dictaque fuerint eidem de Cæsare. Est mille artifex; fingit, dissimulat, et volitare videtur, qui tamen omnia perficiet; d. v. mihi credat. Dico verum." Hagenow, 13 Dec. 1516. Signed.
	Lat., in a different cipher from the previous letters, undeciphered, pp. 5. Add.
13 Dec. Vit. B. III. 95. B. M.	2669. SILVESTER BP. OF WORCESTER.
	"Ex literis D. Wigorniensis die xiii. [Dec.] ... mensis ex Urbe ad me datis." Reiterates what he stated in his letter of the 8th, of the Pope's dislike to this peace between the Emperor and the French. The Imperial ratification is hourly expected. Fra Nicholas, the German, has been sent to the Emperor by the Pope. Lady Margaret, through the artifices of Chievres and the Chancellor, has been won over. This is ascribed to the fault of the English, who can do nothing against the French without money. Worcester replied that England had spent 600,000 ducats without satisfying their greed.
	ii. From letters of the 23rd.
	There is no doubt of the Emperor's agreement with the French, as it has been confirmed by Cardinal Gurk. The Emperor excuses himself that as he could not keep Verona without money he had sent Sion to England to explain matters; and as he could not screw any money out of the English, who never open their purses when time and need require, and he knew that the King was secretly negotiating with France, he thought fit to be before him. The Pope advises the King to join it, and offers his negotiations. Is afraid this union of the Emperor with the French will produce great disturbance in Italy. Antonio Colonna has already declared himself duke, or "capitaneus fortunarius." Fears that when the French have their own way they will invade Italy. The news that Verona was given up to Dominus de Wlreti (Lautrec ?) the French leader, and restored a few days after to the Venetians, is a confirmation of the peace between the Emperor and the French. The Pope is very angry with the old Duke of Urbino for hiring troops and preparing to return to his dukedom. He cannot find out who backs him. News has come from Damascus and Rhodes that the new Sultan has died broken-hearted. The Turk has taken nearly all his dominions; and gone to Cairo, where he has found astonishing wealth. He has shown much moderation and policy, remitting half the imposts, strictly observing justice, restraining the licence of his soldiers. He is liberal to the Christians and the Brethren of the Holy Sepulchre; and is expected to return to Constantinople to prepare for war against Hungary. That done you may bid good bye to Italy.
	In the hand of Ammonius; Lat., pp. 4, mutilated.
13 Dec. Vit. B. II. 190. B. M.	2670. [SILVESTER BP. OF WORCESTER] to [WOLSEY].
	Has received his letters of the 21st ult. The Pope is glad to hear the King is resolved to retain the Swiss, and that the ambassadors are to be sent thither after their letters of the 29th. He is [not] surprised that the French desire to draw the Swiss over to themselves, as they wish to dictate to all Christendom; would be glad to see a closer union between England and the King Catholic; proffers his good offices with the Swiss. He has spoken to such of them as have not been corrupted, and so disappointed the French expectations. The French would persuade the Swiss that by a contract of affinity they have a very good understanding with the Pope, and with their assistance would be able to attack Naples; this the Pope would never permit, as he would then be no better than their chaplain. He begs the King will not pay too much regard to the lukewarmness of the King Catholic; but always keep an ambassador with the Swiss. Could not refuse the Cardinal Sion's brief, as it is a matter of course.
	Copy in the hand of Ammonius; Lat., pp. 3, mutilated. Endorsed in a hand of the 17th century: Idibus Decembris.
13 Dec. Galba, B. IV. 248. B. M.	2671. TUNSTAL to [WOLSEY].
	Thinks the Emperor is better pleased with the governors than he pretends to be, otherwise he would not have given them commission to make peace with France. He will never do anything to displease the King of Castile, as he is now coming of age, and grows very fast to a man. The ambassador [of Arragon] is commanded to avoid the court upon my Lady's displeasure, who is extremely incensed against him. This throws her into the hands of the governors; "and they have offered in times past [to him] many great offices, as the Viceroyship of Sicily, with divers [others,] which ever he hath refused, saying he will not leave his mast[er] unto he see him in Spain." They would gladly get rid of him; and it is said that he shall have some honorable commission to depart, at which Tunstal is sorry. Begs this letter may be shown to the King.
	The toller of Zealand has raised a discussion touching the tolls granted by the intercourse. The Master of the Fellowship has written to Tunstal on the same subject. Will do the best he can in the matter. The person who was lately sent by the Master of the Fellowship into England, and promised to do service, has come to Tunstal, and complained that since May last he had received only 8l. 6s. 8d. He said he was ordered to go to the Deputy at Calais, who asked him for his passport, and did not treat him well. He said he would have nothing to do with Spinelly, because he was no Englishman. "He told me his [name was] Henry Cressent, and that he dwelled in Paris ... and that he was promised by King Lewis, late dead, ... [a] year, for the service that he did him in espial." But as he could not get it, he would never serve the French King. "After long clattering he shewed ... called Michel Cree, which in time past was of To[urnay] ... bores should now be admitted archer of the guard," who, with divers friends, and one John Granier, attempted to make an enterprise on Tournay. He said that the French King had offered to put Ric. de la Pole in possession of England. He promised to bring tidings worth knowing, and said there were many spies in England and some beneficed men. Tunstal gave him two angelotts, though he knows his news will not be worth half the money. Brussels, 13 Dec.
	Hol., pp. 4, mutilated.
14 Dec. Galba, B. VI. 83. B. M.	2672. SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
	The ambassador of Arragon was absent from court, by the King's command, at the Archduchess' complaint. Berghes endeavored to make his peace without effect. The ambassador is gone to Louvain to make interest with the Vice-chancellor of Arragon, the President of Naples, and the Duke of Alva's adherents. She is greatly incensed against him. Understands the King will give him an honorable charge. There are various reports of the cause of his disgrace. "After my poor mind, and though it were so, her honor had been more saved and conserved to keep it secret than to publish it; for by every man's opinion she hath winne but little by the bargain, and the King lostyd a good servant. Many saith that by reason he had largely spoken against the Governor of Bresse, this misfortune is cumyn upon him." Sends a letter from Alamyre, who went two days back into France, where Sir George Nevill is, and will obtain knowledge of his letters. Hopes to learn from the Scultetus of Mechlin the secrets of the two Englismen who, by direction of De la Roche, have gone with money to Richard De la Pole. Speaks of his expenses.
	"Toison Dor showed me in Great Council that he was sent by the Lord Berghes unto the Lady Margaret with a certain message, and how the next morning in the King's Chamber he was called, and declared to him what he had at do with such business; affirming to me that all things been immediately known by the Lord Chievres and the Chancellor." Nothing is said against the peace. The rumor of the meeting at Cambray continues. Refers to the Vice-chancellor's letters for the Bp. of Colonna's answer from the Emperor, and what the King's Council said to him about the confederation. On Wednesday last, on the marriage of Fynes' daughter to the Earl of Agemomt (Egmont), three brothers, nobles of Spain, held the justs. Brussels, 14 Dec.
	Hol., one passage in cipher, undeciphered, pp. 3. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
Galba, B. IV. 246. B. M.	2673. [ALAMIRE to SPINELLY.]
	"... illis duobus Scotis in Francia, et in itinere obviavit ... isti duo Scoti accesserunt ad eum et dederunt sibi illa ... Domino eorum, fidelicet Dux de Albana. Tunc ipse Dominus de Raves[tein] ... ipsum unum diem, et secunda die expedivit eos. Et fecit eos iterum pe ... bene læti, et duxerunt habuisse optimum responsum, &c." Hans Nagell was with him, who had a [letter] from De la Pole to enter France, and find there an ancient friend of his, one George Nevel, "et fuit olim ameral de mare anglicanam." Took the letter, and showed it to Ravestein, with his seal and signet, who was very well satisfied, and told him that the King of France intended to go to Padua (?) and that a great number of ships had secretly been provided, and that the King is well acquainted with what has been done between the King of England "... [Reverendi]ssimi Cardinalis de Wabz de Alfecia, &c." Two Englishmen have come from England to these parts, and bought two horses in the city of ..., where he and Hans Nagell were staying. They belonged to the scultetus of the town of Mechlin. The man who had the care of them was very intimate with this scultetus, and told him that those two Englishmen had money with them, and were going to De la Pole. This scultetus is an intimate acquaintance both of De la Pole and the writer. His name is ..., and he was formerly a great captain, and had a brother [who fought] against Henry VII., and was hanged in England. The King of France has sent an envoy to the Duke of Gueldres, commanding him instantly to make peace with the King Catholic. The Duke has 4,000 foot. Francis has arranged with De la Pole the number that is to go into Scotland with the Duke of Albany. When he was in Germany learned from him; "propterea habeat vestra paternita[s] ... quia circumdatus estis ab inimicis vestris, etc." The devil was never so anxious to destroy souls as he is to destroy the King of England. "Nunquam fuit similis auditum. Et concil ... upero, nolite dimittere Cæsaream majestatem, etc." Begs Wolsey will send him some money. Sealed.
	Lat., hol., pp. 3, badly mutilated. Add. in Spinelly's hand: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
14 Dec. S B.	2674. To the CARDINAL OF YORK, Chancellor.
	For writs of dedimus potestatem to the Abbot of Glastonbury, to take the fealty of Ric. Wrexhall, Abbot elect of Athelney. Richmond, 14 Dec ...
15 Dec. Vit. B. XIX. 351. B. M.	2675. [PACE] to [WOLSEY].
	Since [he wrote his] last letters dated the "x[... of] the last month, two ambassadors [have] arrived here with commission [to treat] upon such things as be compreh[ended in their] proposition made here to [the] five cantons;" of which Pace sends a summary. "I would not that I should propon[e] of those things concludedd in ... for to treate with the Swiss sine ... ratione, showing that our propo ... shulde be contrari if they schulde ... the Swiss ad fedus acceptandum ... pro amicicia sine federe. It is ... that such contrarietes notidde ... should hurt greatly; nitelesse the[y pro]fesse that the manner of treat[ing] ... in England according to my ... shall have more effect than ... cause that the Swiss at this d[iet? ...] be induced to enter con * * * they do not put their seal [unto the Fre]nche peace. And this may well [be], for the Swiss, communi assensu, at the [mo]cion of the five cantons hathe ... ute a diet in this town to be [celeb]rate the 17th of this present mo[nth]," where the whole thirteen cantons shall hear the Emperor's petitions proposed by his orators, and affirmed by Pace in Henry's name, according to the Emperor's order. Another [diet] will then be held for reply.
	"The orators [of th]e Emperor will nothing do nisi me ... because that all credence is given .. them under the King's name, and not [other]wise; and this is the cause that the Emperor would not in any wise that I [should] depart hence." [The Po]pe's ambassadors and Pace have perfect know[ledge of the] Emperor's secret negociations here * * * "the Swiss to this poynte ... neutrales, and by this mea[nes inten] dithe to make the interp[rise in Ita]li with his owne iansken[ights into] the duchie of Milen to him ... spoyle al Itali at his plea[sure]. Bi thys intent the sayde Emperor [doth] put the Popis holinesse in ... cion. And thys is the cause tha[t the] Pope wolde have no Duke of M[ilan] but the Duke of Bari; ne h[abeat] in Italia superiorem. And yff the Emperor schulde obteigne the duch[ie of] Milan for him selfe, he wol[de] attende to nothynge but for [to des]true the Venetians; whyche [inten]tion schulde be agaynst the [interest] of al odre Christian princes ex[cept] hym selfe: wherfore necessar[i it is] that your grace do provide r[emedy] for al these soris at the [meeting] of the Emperor and the King's grace ... causes here doithe stand * * for there moni, yif theye [make this] peace we* shall have a [greater] parte here than the French King. Do [not you]r grace marvayle thoghe you have [no re]solute answer from hense; for [the] Emperor's orators wull have none unto [the] tyme that the sayde Emperor and [the] King haithe mette to gedre; nodre [they] wull suffre me to have ony. And [if [I should labor for any thinge contra[ry] to there intentis, proclamarent me [inimicum] imperatoris; ideo in hoc caute et circumspecte agendum est." Zurich ([Tur]ego), 15 Dec. 1516.
	Hol., part cipher, deciphered; pp. 4, mutilated.
15 Dec. Addit. Charter, 1522. B. M.	2676. SIR EDW. PONYNGES.
	His receipt to Jehan Micault, receiver general of finances of the King of Castile, for 500 livres on account of the pension granted him 1 Jan. 1515. Date, 15 Dec. 1516.
	Endorsement authorising allowance to be made for this payment in Micault's account. Signed: J. De la Laing—Ruffault.
16 Dec. R. O.	2677. LEO X. to WOLSEY.
	Has received his and the King's letters, and has heard what Worcester had to say, to whom Wolsey is to give credence. Rome, 16 Dec. 1516, 4 pont.
	Vellum. Add.
16 Dec. Vit. B. XIX. 353. B. M.	2678. [WOLSEY] to SIR ROB. WINGFIELD.
	The King [understands by] "the contynue" of his letters dated the ... at Hagno, and the letters [sent] by the Cardinal [Sion] to Wolsey, to his great [satisfaction], the escape of the Cardinal from the snares of the French and others, and the joy of the Emperor at his safe arrival. The King is, however, "marvelously angwis[hed] and perplexed to understand" by letters from his ambassador, Mr. [Tunstal], in the court of the King of Arragon, (copies of which are sent herewith,) that "[c]ontrary to all such promises as the Emperor hath made to the [King, yet] without his consent and knowledge, [he] hath taken and [made a truce] with the French King; not only, if it be so to the rw[ine of all] Christendom, but also to his perpetual shame." The King trusts the Emperor's honor, virtue and kindness, and hopes the reports are not true, but "that they [are the] contrived drifts of Mons. de Chievres [to induce] the King to mistrust the Emperor." The King desires, however, that the foregoing should be shown to the Emperor, in order to see what answer he will make; as well as to find out the truth of the report.
	Wingfield is to make the strictest search to discover if any such thing be done or not. If not, and the Emperor will perform his promises, the King will at once cause to be delivered 10,000 fl. now in Tunstal's hands, and at their meeting will pay him 20,000 fl. more, according to promise. If otherwise, "the King is not minded to give him one florin, but shall have cause never to trust him, nor to speak honor of him." The Cardinal Sion is to be warned to have a good eye to the premises, as affecting himself and his honor toward the King and Wolsey. Cannot believe the tidings to be true. If the peace be not concluded "[the King is surprized] to see the boldness of the said Mons. de Chievres [daring] to affirm the same to be concluded; willing [Mr.] Tunstal so to advertise the King's grace, on the King's ... behalf, what answer is made to Mr. Tunstal ... and also what order is taken for the speedy payment [of the] 10,000 fl., ye shall at the large perceive by the [copy of] the said aunswer which I send you here inclose[d]." The French promises, and those of the councillors (of the King of Arragon), will never be kept longer [than] "fear shall continue." All wise men think that [the Emperor] has had so much experience of the nature of the French that he would never have believed them again. Besides, great damage will follow their exaltation. Wingfield will manage everything "accordingly as the ..." The Cardinal Sion and he must remember also [that] the time of the ratification of the amity just concluded [is] almost expired, and the Emperor must press the King of Arragon for it. As yet there is no certainty that he will ratify it.
	Copy, pp. 4, mutilated.
16 Dec. Vit. B. XIX. 355. B. M.	2679. [SIR ROB. WINGFIELD] to HENRY VIII.
	Wrote [last] on the ... of this month, and the Cardinal Sion wrote letters of the same da[te to] Wolsey. Next day received the King's letters dated Greenwich, the 5th inst., with an addition of ... sheets of paper, in answer to his le[tters] of the 24th ult., and giving instructions how to move the Emperor to consent to the King's desire. In the same packet was a copy of the King's instructions to Tu[nstal], his ambassador, to the King Catholic, with [a letter] from Wolsey to Sion. Wingfield and Sion had audience about seven o'clock at night, Gurck only being [present]. Declared the contents of their letters, and gave him "the [copy of the] letters lately sent to the King Catholic ... his majesty." He praised their style, "saying your highness to be marvellously well purveyed of good secretaries, both in Latin and French; and I showed to him that if his majesty understood English he should well perceive that your secretaries in that tongue are as much to be esteemed." Had a long discussion of their charge, in which Sion showed himself "no small doctor," and Gurck did his part well. "Howbeit, in some points his majesty set us up all three, specially in that hitherto he could never attain any of his desires made to your highness at the first, but alway so late that the displeasure and harm hath been too great." He said he would deliberate before answering the overtures they had made. Yesterday he sent Gurck to Sion's lodgings, and the discussion was renewed. Today [Gurck] communicated to them the Emperor's determination, which Sion will declare in cipher to Wolsey. Mentions only that the Emperor desires anyhow [that] the ambassadors sent by Henry [shall go] straight to Bergis, and remain there till [they] receive orders from him; for he desires specially that they should not go first to the King Catholic, [which] "they might not goodly exchewe, if they should [pass] from Calleeyce to Bergis. Wherefore if your say[de am]bassadours come in person to Bergis, they may send [their] horses to Calleeyce, and from thence convey theey[m to] Berghis." The g ... will be forced to employ stratag[em] for the attainment of the desired end ... the enemy strive to "coment the same." Their "venemous conatis" were never better resisted. Hagenow, 16 ... 1516.
	Hol., pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: To the Kynges highnesse.
16 Dec. P. S.	2680. For WM. ATWATER, BP. OF LINCOLN, JOHN VEYSY, doctor of Law and Dean of the Chapel Royal, and JOHN LONGLANDE, D.D.
	Next presentation to the church of Bradnyche in the duchy of Cornwall. Windsor Castle, 11 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 16 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII.
	Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 22.
17 Dec. S. B.	2681. For the BURGESSES of GREAT YARMOUTH.
	Release, for 20 years, of the sum of 50 marks out of their fee farm of 60l. which they owe for the town and a place called Kirkelerode, near the entrance of the port: to enable them to repair the port, the trade of which is much diminished. Del. Westm., 17 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII.
	Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 1.
18 Dec. Vesp. F. III. 41b. B. M.	2682. CHARLES [PRINCE OF CASTILE] to HENRY VIII.
	Credence for Lord Berghes and other ambassadors, from the Emperor and himself. Malines, 18 Dec. Signed.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: Mon bon pèere le Roy d'Angleterre.
18 Dec. Galba, B. IV. 259. B. M.	2683. SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
	Encloses letters directed by the King [to the] Vice-chancellor and councillors of Brabant for the p[ublication] of the peace between the Emperor and France, which was proclaimed here on the ... inst. "Raphael de Medicis, who is here for the Pope, saith th[at] upon divers remonstrances made on this side, and f ... menn both, until his holiness, saying the same [would] empeche the said peace. The Pope only answer[ed] ... yle advertised and that in case it could be fo ... he should be verily glad thereof with generals ... and not further, as they will say. And some consy[dering the] manner of the Emperor proceeding in that matter ... make no difficulty in the restitution of Verona, as p[er]aventura the contrary it is persuaded." Hears that the meeting of Cambray is to take place "these feasts past." Cannot believe the Emperor will trust the French King.
	The Duke of Gueldres has sent 3,000 foot and 200 horse into Friesland. It is evident that the peace will not long continue, "and ... received and consumed the 200,000 cr. [in setting] forthward new inventions and enterprises. Master Charles de la Verdera showed me yesterday in council that Casius shall go in ... who is justly a merchant meet for the Frenchmen; and the audiencer sayeth that the French ambassador will maintain how the King's [grace m]y master hath done contrary to the treaty his highness hath with them; and consequently he laboreth to empeche the confirmation of the [said] amity, whereof I have advertised Master Vice-chancellor. Moreover, the said audiencer affirmeth that when it should fortune war between England and France, that the subjects will rather join with you than with France, whatsoever should be done to the contrary." Brussels, 18 Dec. M ...
	Hol., pp. 2, mutilated; part cipher, with decipher by Tuke, mutilated also.
18 Dec. S. B.	2684. For SIR WM. COMPTON.
	To be sheriff of Worcestershire vice Sir John Savage. The office was granted, in survivorship, to Sir John Savage, jun., knight of the Body, and John his son, by patent 17 Feb. 12 Hen. VII., The former dying, a similar grant was made 27 Dec. 4 Hen. VIII. to the last-named John now Sir John, and John his son, which was rendered void by act of 7 Hen. VIII. (relative to patents surrendered for new ones); and the office was again vested in Sir John Savage, who was indicted in Mich. term last, for abusing his office. Del. Westm., 18 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII.
	Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 3.
20 Dec. Galba, B. III. 267. B. M.	2685. TUNSTAL to HENRY VIII.
	"... as well the ... by me made to the King Catholic and ... the Lord Chievres and the Chancellor as certa[inly] ... they might not, nor ought not, refuse the confirma[tion of the trea]ty, as late was concluded betwixt the orator of Spain ... ent, the Emperor's orator, and your grace's commissioners." An oath was arranged, with other remonstrances, as will be seen by his said letters. An answer was given to the Bp. of Columpna, and they expected to hear from the Emperor. Tunstal forbore to urge the matter three or four days. Yesterday received for answer, from Chievres, that he should go to the Chancellor, who was ill; learnt from him that the King Catholic had assembled his Council to have their opinion touching the confirmation of the new amity demanded by England. He intends to send one of his Council to England to argue for the confirmation, in such form as will be shown, to the King. He will be glad to condescend to this confirmation if it can be done agreeably to his oath to other Princes. Tunstal urged upon the Chancellor the advantages of the league; he said that on that subject the King would declare his mind by his ambassador. "As touching your pension he said it was seen to the ..."
	On the Chancellor expressing dissatisfaction with the proceedings of the commissioners in reference to the articles, Tunstal told him they had changed their minds through the instigation of the French, who would never be their true friends. He said he knew that; but as they were in alliance with both, they could not allow one party to invade the other. It is not yet determined who shall be sent. It will be seen that they only look to the furtherance of their own interests. The Emperor is clearly pleased with what they have done, and the peace is published. Has no hope of any confirmation of the treaty. The Emperor favors the present advisers of the Prince,—a fact unknown to the King at the drawing of his instructions of 5 Dec. The ambassador of Arragon has not yet returned from L ..., the Lady Margaret not being yet appeased.
	"The Lady Margaret sent to me, as I was writing this letter, a sec[retary] of hers called Wm. Barris, with a letter of [crede]ns of her own hand, as he said, but it seemed to [us not] to be her hand. The which credence was that she would ha[ve spo]kin with me, save that these governors should have her [for] suspect, whereby she might less avance your grace's aff[air]s; that her father the Emperor should accomplish all su[ch] promises as the Cardinal Sedunensis had made touching these governors; and where she was inform[ed] one should come out of England to me shortly to inform me thereof, she desired me that when I [had] any such word out of England to make her pri[vy] by her said secretary thereof. After I had heard him, I answered him that I never knew no such practice, nor never was privy to any such matter. If any such matter should come to my knowledge I would advertise her: and so I dismissed him. I believe verily he was suborned by some other than her to feel what I would say touching such matter; and yet if he had been sent by her I would not have said to him further than I car ... to knowledge of these governors, for causes in m[y last] letters, more largely expressed. Howbeit I [perceive] she favoreth your grace and your affairs; but many d[oubt] her matters be not kept secret. Wherefore (fn. 1) I for me p[art be] well war of all such as long to her." From ... 20 Dec. Signed.
	Part cipher in Tunstal's own hand, with mutilated decipher by Tuke in the margin; pp. 6.
20 Dec. R. O.	2686. ALLARD BENTINCK.
	Notification by John de la Saulch that on 20 Dec. 1516 John Le Clement and Anthoine Joseph exhibited certain letters patent from Henry VIII., dated Westm., 28 Oct. 1516, appointing, at the instance of the Archduchess of Savoy, Allard Bentinck, her maître d'hotel, receiver of the 6,000 livres paid annually by the city of Tournay, and ordering that his receipt shall be a sufficient acquittance for money due in that behalf to the King.
	Fr., pp. 3, mutilated. Endd.: Copy of the patent of Alard Bentyvall.
20 Dec. P. S.	2687. For ROGER SALESBURY.
	To be serjeant at arms, with 12d. a day, vice Th. Twyseday, deceased. Windsor Castle, 9 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 20 Dec. 8 Hen. VIII.
	Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 3.