Henry VIII: February 1517, 11-20

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: February 1517, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518, (London, 1864) pp. 936-949. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol2/pp936-949 [accessed 25 March 2024]

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February 1517

11 Feb.
Calig. E. II. 85.
B.M.
2902. JERNINGHAM to [WOLSEY].
In his last stated that certain persons of the town were appointed to wait on the King with certain articles. Sends a copy. Sends also instructions given by my Lord Chamberlain and others for advancing the citadel. The King Catholic has made proclamation that no English money be current in his dominions beyond the rates specified, sc., "a royal of gold at ij . . . halfpenny, the angel at 6s. 4d., and so after the rate . . . at 4s. and a Flemish halfpenny, and as for the groats half . . . hath been current." This makes it difficult to obtain provisions. The country people will not take English money. Knows not how to pay the laborers in the citadel. Has written to Jerome Fryskaball. Begs Wolsey to write to Leo[nard.] The sums formerly paid to William Pawne were by authority of Lord Mountjoy. Desires that he may have like authority; also that his commission be enlarged according to the copies sent to William Bartilmeux. Begs, as in his last, to have 1,000l. between payments. Tournay, 11 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 4, mutilated.
11 Feb.
Giust. Desp. II. 33.
2903. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE.
News is come that Ravenna and Cervia have fallen into the hands of Venice, "it being asserted that you had an understanding with the Duke of Urbino, the Duke of Ferrara, the Bentivogli, and others, the captain of the expedition being the Lord M.A. Colonna, with the troops which left Verona." The Signory is accused of being restless and ambitious, especially by the imperial ambassadors here, who never cease defaming it. Was told this day, by a friend [Chieregato] who had been with these ambassadors, that one of them, Count Tationo, whose county is near Aste, said, "What is this King, and what are other Princes doing? They ought all to join against these ribald Venetians, who are worse than the Turks;" adding other words of a like nature. These two ambassadors, on receiving the news of Verona, put on cloth of frieze, most mean apparel, to show the world, perhaps, that this took place contrary to the will of the Emperor, and to his great shame, for the sake of causing the King here to make some fresh stir. Is assured that the King will cross to Calais. The cause is unknown: it is supposed to be for an interview with the Emperor and the Catholic King. Great supplies of wine and other necessaries are collecting at Calais. London, 11 Feb. 1517.
11 Feb.
P.S.
2904. For WM. GOWER.
Grant, in tail general, of tenements in Woodstrete, London, vice Rob. Meltham Wm. Barnard and others, in the parish of St. Peter, London, vice Wm. Campion and Th. Thomson: in the King's hands, Peter Curteys having acquired the same in fee from Humph. Grey without licence. Greenwich, 22 Nov. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 11 (fn. 1) Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 9.
11 Feb. 2905. For SIR JOHN GRENE.
Pardon for acquiring (without licence), from Sir Wm. Fynderne, the manor of Ixnyng called Coggeshales, to hold in tail, with remainder to Wm. Grene his father, in tail, with remainder to the right heirs of the said John. Westm., 11 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 21.
11 Feb.
P.S.
2906. For RALPH ASCUE alias AYSCOGH.
Pardon, as of London, of Beawley, Hants, of Gosberton or Gosberkyrk in Holland, and of Pynchebek in Holland, Line. Greenwich, 4 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 11 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 19.
11 Feb.
S.B.
2907. For JOHN NOREIS of Yatynden, Berks.
Pardon. Del. Westm., 11 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 9.
11 Feb.
P.S.
2908. For TH. BARTELLET of London, draper.
Protection; going in the retinue of Sir Ric. Wingfeld, Deputy of Calais. Greenwich, 8 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 11 Feb.
Fr. 8 Hen. VIII. m. 8.
12 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 67.
B. M.
2909. The EARL OF WORCESTER, TUNSTAL and SIR ROBERT WINGFIELD to [HENRY VIII.]
The Emperor went from Antwerp to Lire on the 9th, desiring them to give credence to his daughter, Gurk and De la Roche. They stated that the King of Castile refused to confirm the amity, as the Emperor required, except in one of two ways; to take out the words "emolumenta et proventus," or add the words "sine præjudicio tractatus conclusi in Noyon," &c. The writers said the treaty had been already concluded by the King of Castile's commissioners as it stood; that without perjury he could not refuse to confirm it; that the thing was unreasonable in itself, and contrary to the whole spirit of the treaty; that it would lead to endless litigation, and they had no authority to allow any change: but they were ready to send the terms to England. They were desired not to do so till word had been sent to the Emperor. On the 11th Gurk offered them four propositions from the Emperor, as in the bill enclosed. Objected to the third way as more dark than the second; and to leave the confirmation to the Emperor, as in the fourth, would be to acknowledge the treaty questionable. Desired a copy of the paper, which was given them after they had spoken with the Emperor.
Requested of my Lady to have audience with the Emperor before he went to Brussels. Told him, on the morrow, that the King of England was anxious to establish the ancient amity between himself and Burgundy, but had been refused; that on the death of the King of Arragon, when so many realms had fallen to his nephew (grandson), it was again offered; and this last summer, when the Emperor made war on Milan, and asked for a stricter league between the three, England had sent ambassadors to his nephew for that purpose, who offered to accept all such articles as suited his purpose, and refused those made for the Emperor's; that his governors, to prevent the alliance, had made a treaty with France, at Noyon, containing many conditions prejudicial to him; that the King of Castile is a young man, but the Emperor reputed "the wisest prince this day living;" and if he confirmed it, the King of Castile could have no pretence hereafter to say he was deceived. The result, they said, would be, that the prince of the greatest inheritance for the last 500 years would be at the beck of France; the natural authority of the Emperor and his daughter overshadowed, the French established in Italy, and France would attain the crown of the empire, which she claims as her right. The Emperor ought, therefore, to encourage his nephew not to submit to his governors, who would treat him like a Duke of Brabant, not like a King. Again, in the expedition against Milan, the governors complained of the King of Arragon, because the Viceroy of Naples did not join, whilst on the last occasion they sent word to him not to join; and all their conduct was for the interest of the French. Concluded by desiring him to induce the King of Castile to confirm the article made for entertaining the Swiss, to prevent them joining with France. The Emperor said, that as these matters greatly concerned the King of Castile, he would consult with him at his going to Brussels. He leaves this day, and on Sunday next will swear to the treaty of Noyon, as they know for certain. Mechlin, 12 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 9, mutilated.
12 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 64.
B.M.
2910. The EARL OF WORCESTER and TUNSTAL to [HEN. VIII.]
Have written a letter, subscribed by them and Wingfield, of the state of affairs, to which they refer. They advise that the arbitrament of the confirmation should not be left to the Emperor, for he has already made peace with France without the knowledge of England, and will use it to his own purposes. As the King of Castile has refused it, and the Emperor will not insist on it, and it is more for their interest than the King's, advise Henry to decline it, and to state he will no longer be bound by it, and that he intends strictly to observe the treaties made with the Emperor, and expects him to do the same; to compliment the Emperor for confirming the same with the King of Castile, "with such other good words." There is no chance the governors will be removed. Their authority has increased and will continue till the King is to Spain. He must take his own way till he find himself vexed. My Lady dissembled when they told her the Emperor was going to Brussels to receive the French money. Sion assured Tunstal "that the Emperor would go to receive those crowns of France," and think it a sin to suffer them to escape his hands. On demanding an audience from him he would give no answer.
Yesternight my Lady sent for Dr. Tunstal, and said she had been in long communication with the Emperor. He told her, if she would keep his counsel, and show it to no person, he would tell her his mind. On her promising to show it to no one without his leave, he said he wished well to England, that he found the King of Castile "as immoveable as an idol, which word I [Tunstal] marvelled escaped her," and to avoid debate he had proposed certain ways contained in their letters. To avoid suspicion she was going with him to Brussels. She told Tunstal, on his asking an audience, that, as the Emperor knew not what they would say, he cared not to defer it. In their audience next morning spoke to the Emperor as mentioned in their letters. Maraton then said he had a great secret; that though the Emperor offers four ways he refers the fourth to arbitrament, that by so doing he could bring the King of Castile to the meeting, and "when your grace and the young King should meet together, and by disports be well acquainted, then mention should be made of his going into Spain. And if his Council would say he were not purveyed of ships nor money, then your grace might say he should not lack ships nor money, if he would make assignations to your grace to pay it again at days. And so, your help had in that behalf, he might so go into Spain." Thinks he was sent by the Emperor to sound them. If his tale be true, it means that England should bear the expence of his voyage into Spain.
My Lady is not candid. She does not dislike the governors, as she pretends, for the treaty of Noyon is beneficial to her lands. All their fair promises were made to get money. "Howbeit our simple advice is, that your grace, shutting your purse in time to come by all good means possible, to be with words devised, to entertain the Emperor and my Lady as they do your grace. We think verily the Emperor will, if he can, cast a figure to come by the 20,000 florins promised at the meeting, (in case he enter not further intelligence with France,) excusing the breaking of his promise by one means or other. At our first coming what good words we had we have written in our former letters, of which we see the contrary effects follow." Will wait for an answer before further communication with him. Think it well to leave them alone in their new amity with France, by which France will lose nothing. Demanded an audience before the Emperor went to Brussels, to obviate all his excuses, and delivered the letters they received dated the 7th. Mechlin, 12 Feb.
P.S.—The King has required by Cardinal Sion that the last overtures made to him should be put into writing to assist his memory. As they suspected the motion came from Gurk, and it referred to the governors, the writers demanded that none should be present but the Emperor. Said they were ordered by their prince to communicate it to him privately, and if he forgot anything they would tell him it: "or else I, Dr. Tunstall, should come to Brussels," and show it him secretly.
Pp. 8, mutilated.
12 Feb.
Galba, B. V. 72.
B. M.
Ellis, I. S. I. 134.
2911. TUNSTAL to [HENRY VIII.]
Among other points in their joint letter there is one article untouched because he would not make his clerk privy to it. Could not write it before as he had been sent for to the Emperor's commissioners. Cardinal Sion in his long discourse stated that one of the secret matters treated between the Emperor and the King, was the resignation by the former of the empire in favor of Henry; "which matter, when I heard, I let as I nothing had marked it, and let him pass on in talking of his tale." After expressing his great anxiety for the increase of the King's honor, Tunstal states such an election cannot be thought about by any means whatever; that if certain points be neglected the election is void:—one is, that the elect must be a subject of the empire, which England never was. "But the crown of England is an empire of itself, much better than now the empire of Rome, for which cause your grace weareth a close crown; and therefore, if ye were chosen, since your grace is not of the empire, the election were void. And if your grace should accept the said election, thereby ye must confess your realm to be under subjection of the empire, to the perpetual prejudice of your successors." Before being made Emperor (which would be by being crowned at Rome) Henry must be King of the Romans,—a dignity Maximilian does not mean to give up, and which cannot be voided except by death or when the King of the Romans is crowned Emperor. Is afraid the offer is so specious that they will get money by it. Advises the King to treat it as a token of the Emperor's good mind, and give him "most exquisite thanks." Mechlin, 12 Feb.
Hol., pp. 4, mutilated.
12 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 74.
B. M.
2912. SIR ROBERT WINGFIELD to [WOLSEY].
Wrote last on the 8th from Malines. Wolsey will remember that in his letters of Aug. last he desired Wingfield to bring the Emperor into these parts. His majesty is well inclined to the King. The people about him are full of "protervity," and the matters secretly treated of not likely to take effect, and he must therefore provide that the last error be not worse than the first. Should this be, "I had leever be at Calcowte in my shirt, or rather there as I shall be a hundred years after this day." Malines, 12 Feb. 1517.
12 Feb.
Galba, B. V. 68.
B.M.
2913. KNIGHT and SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
Motion has been made to them by the Lord Chievres for some reparation to be made to the Prince of Chimay, whose lands were spoiled to the amount of 100,000 crowns in the last war between England and France. Brussels, 12 Feb. Signed.
P. 1, mutilated. Add. and endd.
12 Feb.
Vit. B. XX 37.
B.M.
2914. [ANCHISES VISCOUNTI] to WOLSEY.
"Quonam statu res hic sint satis ac perabu[ndanter] ... Ill ac RR. d. v. percipiet; videtur ... sola et unica virtus offuscetur: frau[di]b[us] ... militatur. In Elvetiis Anglicum nomen vene[ratur] ... harum eam solum instrumentum ac ducem testan[tur]." Has, however, like a noble man, kept his faith, "hue ... mina veni, omnia neglexi ac sprevi. Ad prædictum D. Ric[a]rdu[m] ... dereliqui." Now when Pace goes hence, ... knows not if it will be allowable for him to follow him. Would willingly do so, but is prevented by the wholesome counsel of Sion, who [does not] judge it safe. "Deinde prodigalitatis meæ in Angliam oppositum me cogit even ... " Why should he wish me to protract my business for a month? In his difficult circumstances is compelled to adapt himself to the time, unless otherwise ordered by Wolsey, when he will obey even to the gallows. Zurich, 12 Feb. 1517. Signature burnt off.
P. 1, mutilated. Add.: Illmo, &c. D.D. Card. Eboracensi, &c.
12 Feb.
S.B.
2915. For SIR GILBERT TALBOT of Grafton, Worc., sen., justice of the peace for Worc., alias Deputy of Calais, and GILBERT his son and heir.
Release of several recognizances made 31 Jan. 24 Hen. VII., and release to Sir Gilbert of all dues to the King on account of 20,531l. 6s. 6d. and 270 "deneres Tourneis of Fraunce" (amounting to 2s. 6d. of English money), received for the King's use from John Heron and Sir Ric. Carewe, lieutenant of the castle of Calais. Del. Westm., 12 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 11.
12 Feb. 2916. For HUGH LASSELL, clk.
Presentation to the church of St. Peter Magnus, Chichester, void by death. Westm., 12 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 25.
12 Feb.
S. B.
2917. For JOHN COPYNGER, gentleman of the Household.
Pardon for the abduction of Eliz. daughter and heir of Th. Sothill. Del. Westm., 12 Nov. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 12.
12 Feb.
S. B.
2918. For TH. BURDETTE of Bramcote, in Pollesworth, Warw.
Pardon for the murder of Th. Cartwrygth; and pardon to Wm. Bracebryge of Shuttyngton alias of Bramcote, Th. Eton of Bramcote alias of Burton on Trent, Staff., and Rob. Dypsy, rector of Newton Regis, Warw., for the same offence. Del. Westm., 12 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 11.
12 Feb. 2919. JUSTICE OF ASSIZE.
Oxford Circuit.—Rob. Brudenell jun, with Lewis Pollerd and John Neuport. Westm., 12 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 15d.
Midland Circuit.—John Jenour with Th. Pygot and Brian Palmes. Westm., 12 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 16d.
Western Circuit.—Th. Elyott with Ric. Elyot and John Ernley.
Norfolk Circuit.—Wm. Mordaunt with Rob. Rede and John Butteler. Westm., 12 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 9d.
13 Feb.
Er. Ep. I. 22.
2920. ERASMUS to THOMAS GREY and PETER WHITER (VITERIUS).
Has received their letters. Is very ill, not with a cough but the sickness, under which many are now suffering. Expresses his friendship for both, and explains his reasons for not writing. Commends Grey for embracing the sacred profession. Brussels, idibus Feb, 1516.
13 Feb.
Galba, B. V. 81.
B. M.
2921. SPINELLY to HENRY VIII.
Last week, the Emperor, after promising to be here, went from Mechlin to Antwerp. He is expected at Brussels this evening. Peace will be concluded with France. Chievres, the Chancellor and the Audiencer will go to Cambray to arrange with the Great Master of France the place of meeting. Since his coming the authority of the governors has been much increased. All matters are left to them, and the suits of the Spaniards are discouraged. All displeasure felt against France on the score of Verona has disappeared. From these causes, and the countenance given to Chievres and the Chancellor, his popularity has declined. The Spaniards speak ill of him, and all say he had better have tarried in Almain, as the governors "have him in their sleeves." The great inducement put forward for his joining the meeting at Cambray is an enterprise against the Infidels, of which he shall be captain general, and thus Hungary be secured, where his shall be captain general, and thus Hungary be secured, where his niece is married, with his patrimony of Carinthia and Croatia. For this enterprise the Catholico makes many promises of men, money and ships, and that the Pope shall grant dismes upon the spirituality in Almain. The French offer him in marriage the Lady of Angoulême, with 500,000 crowns. Verona was delivered on the 15th of last month to Lotrecte.
On the 16th the garrison went to Mantua, and were taken in pay by the Duke of Urbino and a cousin of the Marquis of Mautua. Swelled by a number of adventurers, they proceeded to a town called Fynal, belonging unto the Duke of Ferrara, giving out that "the sayd Duc went for to recowere his duchie, and not for to any arm unto no mann." Some say he has taken Ravenna, and the Duke of Ferrara Modena and Regyo, and the Bentyvollys are entered into Bononya: but this has not been confirmed by letters from Rome of the 29th. The Pope sent to inquire of the French King if these things were done with his consent, who denied it, and has commanded Lotrecte to assist the Pope on all occasions. The Catholico has commanded the Viceroy of Naples to do the same. All the Neapolitans there believe that it was a practice of the French with a view to invade Naples.
The Emperor, on his arrival at Brussels, was met by the King a mile hence. On Saturday a feast was prepared. On Monday Chievres, the Chancellor and the Audiencer held a meeting with the Bp. of Paris and the Lord Tornon to appoint the place of congress. With them go also a friar Augustin, an Almain, sent by the Pope, who has great influence. A friend of Spinelly's, intimate with Pottilberg, receiver general of Flanders, and with the Lord Montani, tells him that the Catholico hath lately granted the Emperor 50,000 ducats, to be paid out of the rents of Castile annually, in addition to the 50,000 florins of gold he receives every year out of Flanders; and because Chievres and the Chancellor had fallen under his displeasure, they have found the means of conciliating them at their master's cost. The great Lords, with whom the Cardinal of Spain had been at variance, and had transferred their respect to De la Shaw, have been compelled by the governors here to submit: the Cardinal representing that their hostility arose only because he would not suffer them to usurp the rights of the Crown. His secretary has since procured for him from the King a pension of 500 ducats on the see of Coria. The temporal lords, who were about to assemble the States of the realm, and provide that every town should keep their rents in their own hands till the King's coming, are greatly provoked at this. It is, therefore, thought that the King must go next summer into Spain, or a commotion will ensue. The Cardinal of Sion is expected at Mechlin. Brussels, 13 Feb.
Hol., part cipher, deciphered by Tuke; pp. 7, mutilated, Add.: To the King's grace. (fn. 2)
13 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 77.
B. M.
2922. SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
Regrets the turn that affairs are taking, but expects that the conduct of the French to their new friends will make England more desired. The Emperor is not well disposed to them, but only badly counselled. Merlion (fn. 3) told him that at the meeting of Cambray Chievres and the Chancellor expressed their conviction how the King of England might be sure of his money from France, and the Catholico become security for it, which he might do because he gives as much yearly for the realm of Naples; but this he will not do for the French Queen's dower. Thinks if some gift had been sent from the King of England to Chievres and the Chancellor, he might have advanced his cause, as the former complains he had had many promises but few deeds. Brussels, 13 Feb. 1516.
Hol., part cipher, deciphered by Tuke; pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
13 Feb.
Galba, B. V. 75.
B. M.
2923. TUNSTAL to WOLSEY.
Refers him to letters to the King. The promise made by the Emperor cannot be performed. There is much dissimulation. My Lady pretends to take their part, but dissembles. Pretends, however, to believe her. Is inclined to think that Don John De la Nucha, with whom she pretends to be discontented, was driven by her out of the country because he knew too much of the Emperor's dealings. The Emperor accuses my Lady, and my lady the Emperor, of divulging secrets. "My Lord, at the reverence of God, move the King to take good counsel at this time and refrain his first passions." He must dissemble the past, shut the King's purse in time to come, and make the best of the amity with the Emperor and the King of Castile, or the King will be left without friends. Thinks their importunate seeking of this new amity has been more a hindrance than otherwise, and made the people here believe they can lead the King as they please. It will be of no advantage to England. Cardinal Sion tells him that the briefs which came to the King of Castile, that "salva conscientia" he might from this new alliance, were procured by Gurk. If so, the Emperor was privy to it. "Cardinal Gurk is reputed to be as the Emperor will, like as your grace is with our master: of which point, I pray you, advertise the King's grace." Thinks the King of Castile has not yet consented to any point contrary to their amity with England, which "they keep for a backset." "After such sober manner help so to order all things at this time that our master cast not utterly away these his ancient friends upon this new displeasure. I trust in the end the repentance shall be theirs, if our master will take a little patience." "Arm your grace with patience, which here we do learn, and have not showed us to any to perceive so far as we do." Mechlin, 13 Feb.
Hol., pp. 3, mutilated. Add.. [My] Lord Cardinal of [Y]ork.
13 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 79.
B. M.
2924. SIR ROBERT WINGFIELD to WOLSEY.
Wrote his last on the 12th from Malines, which he will receive with this, as the post was not despatched. Has received his letter dated Westminster, the 7th, in answer to his from Arscott, of 24 Jan., touching the 6,000 fl. due to the Fuggers, and the 2,000 nobles paid by Sion to the Emperor at Hagenaw. Touching the first sum, as he had acted in accordance with the charge given him, hopes he shall be acquitted of all blame. His own letters to my Lady, which she sent to Wolsey, are the best witness. Will write again when he has communicated with my Lady. Had never stated that Sion was to be reimbursed the 2,000 nobles advanced by him. The Emperor is bound, and one half he has restored already. Malines, 13 Feb. 1517.
Hol., pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: My Lord Cardinal's most reverend grace.
14 Feb.
Giust. Desp. II. 35.
2925. SEB. GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE
Visited the Cardinal and the Duke of Suffolk. He drew Sebastian aside, and said to him: "Gratulor vobis fœlicitatibus vestris, but, I pray you, do not molest the Church;—touch not the hem of Christ's garment." On Sebastian saying that he knew nothing of the matter: "Domine Orator," said Wolsey, "I have at present a great deal of business. We will confer together more at leisure." Perceiving he wished to be alone with the Duke of Suffolk, Sebastian took his leave, and visited the Bp. of Durham, who warmly congratulated him. Sebastian told him that the Signory had no ambitious designs, and had nothing more at heart than general peace. As he muttered that those who think of gaining fresh territory do not show signs of peace, Sebastian assured him he knew nothing of the matter, but possibly these towns might have surrendered voluntarily, as they had belonged to Venice before they passed into the hands of Pope Julius on the conspiracy at Cambray. Did not venture to say much, because he wished to avoid discussion. London, 14 Feb. 1517.
14 Feb.
R. O.
2926. SIR RICHARD JERNINGHAM to HENRY VIII.
Has sent forth his spies to Mense in Lorraine, according to the King's command and the Cardinal's last letter, to discover the intentions of Ric. De la Pole. This spy is a man at arms in the same town. Has not yet heard more of the French preparations for war. Recommends Candish, the bearer, who has been diligent at all times, "taking great pain in your works, as devising of engines for the conveyance of water and other necessaries, which hath been to your grace great profit; as Master Pawne, the master of your works here, can more largely advertise your grace; and for his time is as inventive a young man in devising of all manner necessaries, as well artillery, ordnance, as other." Tournay, 14 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. Add. and endd.
14 Feb.
Calig. D. VI. 296.
B. M.
2927. [SAMPSON] to [WOLSEY].
On Wednesday last, 11 Feb., was at Bruges, where appeared the Abbot of St. Bartholomew's, pretensed judge delegate to the elect of Tournay, "whom I found easy, and not rigorous; and as it fortuned that day his scribe was absent. Wherefore, I desired of the judge to have the next Wednesday eight days after." This was stoutly opposed, but in the end the writer succeeded, pretending that he had weighty causes at Tournay that would not admit of his absence. Left Bruges for Tournay the next day, to color his argument. Has thus eight days to spare, "differing ... till your other provision revocatory may be [here]." Begs he may have it with speed, with letters also from the King and Wolsey to the Emperor, the King's off[icers], and Lady Margaret's; because this is usual, and he "had once express prohibition of the said King's Council not to meddle with his lands and countries." Tournay, 14 Feb. 1516.
Hol., pp. 2, mutilated.
15 Feb.
Calig. E. II. 84.
B. M.
2928. JERNINGHAM to WOLSEY.
Has received from the Provost the articles and instructions enclosed. Has not had time to peruse them. Has advised with fit persons what answer should be given. Sends a book of it. Hears nothing of Leonard Fryskaball's exchange. Begs he may be spoken to. Tournay, 15 Feb.
P. 1, mutilated. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal of York.
Galba B. VI. 117.
B. M.
2929. [SPINELLY] to [HENRY VIII.]
"This morrow word hath been privily sent me by [such as] be [your] great friends here," that the peace with France was concluded here last night by the Emperor's commissioners, and sworn to in the presence of the French ambassadors, "which also the Chancellor hath affirmed to your said friends to be true," rejoicing that the universal peace is at last concluded. The Emperor is to have 200,000 ducats, of which one half is to be paid at Christmas. A personal meeting is agreed upon between the Emperor, the Kings of France and Castile, at Cambray. All secrets entrusted to the Lady Margaret come to the knowledge of Chievres and the Chancellor, either through the Governor of Bres or others about her, though she does not favor the French. The King will be cautious, therefore, what he says to any one belonging to her and residing in England.
"Here all matters, &c."
Decipher in Tuke's hand, p. 1, mutilated. Endd.: An extract out of ciphers.
16 Feb.
Galba, B. V. 87.
B. M.
2930. KNIGHT to WOLSEY.
Since the Emperor has come to these parts, his dissimulation is more apparent; for the Spaniards, who expected that when he came he would punish the governors and put down their enormities, now seeing his favor towards them, follow the times. They have caused the surrender of Verona, for which the Emperor will have a pension from Spain. They have concluded a marriage between Madame Eleanor, the eldest daughter of this house, and the Prince of Portugal, for a sum of money, of which the Emperor shall have part. "Thinketh your grace that the Emperor, being always prodigal, and consequently continually in necessity and need, which selleth his blood and honor in this manner for money, will keep any promise that he hath or shall make unto the King? At Villefort, where he did give audience unto the French ambassadors, he said to the King, at his departing, 'Mon filz, vous ales trumper les Françoiz, et moy je va trumper les Angloise; and immediately revoked his word, and said 'Nonne, je va voire ce que je puis faire avecque les Anglois.' " It would be tedious to write all his disimulations. If he might have counselled the Lord Chamberlain, he would have dissuaded him from making any overture about the governors. He might have seen that their authority increased after their communication with the Emperor, and everything was betrayed to them the next day.
Thinks Wolsey's proposition to break the marriage between Spain and France not advisable, because the King of Spain binds himself to renounce Naples, and if he does not fulfil it he will give occasion to the French to annoy him, and great slander to England for being the cause of it. "The Lord Chievres hath begun to satisfy the King's pleasure, and suffered him to enter in ludum Veneris, and therefore I cannot think that he will abide the time of the young Princess of France; so that, with little sufferance of time, your grace shall see that he that was first cause of the said marriage shall be like cause of breach of the same and loss of Naples also." His coming to England will only cause expence, and be no good. He will be governed by Chievres, and all liberality will be thrown away; and if the confirmed any treaty it would be excused that he was not at liberty, as Philip his father refused the treaty concluded at Windsor. The meeting of the King and the Emperor will be loss of money, time and reputation, unless Wolsey will dèscend to the same means as the Emperor, who has "neither money nor ware for any prince to thrive by that meddleth much with him." The money will be better spent in strengthening Tournay or attacking the Scots. As for the resignation, "meræ sunt nugæ." Nothing is more likely to disturb the governors than the discontent of the Duke of Alva, the Duke Del Infantazo, the Constable of Castile, with the Cardinal of Toledo in Spain, and the goverhors here. These malcontents should be moved to send a protest to the King, that Castile was not wont to be governed as it is now; and that whereas the late King did leave Naples free to the crown of Castile, the governors have made it tributary to France; complaining also of the treaty of Noyon as made solely for the interests of France, and requesting him to repair immediately to Castile to consult with the lords there. They are naturally fierce, and will follow out their opinions if backed by England. Now is the time, as the governors and the Cardinal of Toledo are reconciled.
Received on the 13th two letters from the Master of the Rolls at Mechlin, for the Emperor, from the King and Wolsey, which he sent by Richmond. Spinelly, on inquiring about them, said that they concerned the removal of the governors, and that the Emperor had delivered them to Chievres and the Chancellor, who were very angry. If they contained any such thing, the governors knew the contents; if not, Knight thinks Spinelly was suborned to ascertain whether any such thing was thought of. Spinelly says he will write. Thinks the King should call home his ambassadors. The Pope is French, and all from Rome to Calais. Begs Wolsey to excuse his plainness. Brussels, 16 Feb.
Hol., pp. 7, mutilated. Add.. [My L]ord Cardinal of York. Endd.
16 Feb.
P. S.
2931. For the ABBEY of ST. BENET, HULME, Norwich dioc.
Assent to the election of John Salcote, prior of St. John the Baptist, Colchester, London dioc., as abbot of Hulme. Greenwich, 31 Jan. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 16 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 20.
ii. Petition of John Tacolneston prior, and Ric. Norwich, brother of Hulme monastery, for the above. 29 Jan. 1516.
16 Feb.
S. B.
2932. To CUTHBERT TUNSTALL, Master of the Rolls.
To cancel a recognizance of 500l., made by Sir Nich. Vaux of Norton, North., and Sir Th. Parre of London, 31 July 7 Hen. VIII. to Th. Abp. of York, Th. Lovell and John Heron, treasurer of the Chamber, to the King's use. Greenwich, 30 Nov. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. to Mr. Tailor, deputy to the Master of the Rolls, 16 Feb.
16 Feb.
S. B.
2933. For ADAM WILLIAMSON, S.T.B.
Denization; being a native of the diocese of Glasgow, Scotland, Del. Westm., 16 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 23.
16 Feb. 2934. For TH. ARGLASSE of Gowdederst, Kent.
Pardon for killing Alex. Shefe of Hawkeherst in self-defence. Westm., 16 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 5.
17 Feb.
S. B.
2935. For ROBT. SYMMYS.
Lease, for 21 years, of the lordship of Rydlyngton, Rutl., lately belonging to Margaret Countess of Richmond, at the annual rent of 9l. 3s. 8¾d., and 20s. of increase. Del. Westm., 17 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 22.
17 Feb.
P. S.
2936. For HEN. WEBLE, yeoman of the stirrup.
Annuity of 5l. out of the issues of Denbigh; with arrearages. Greenwich, 31 Jan. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 17 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
17 Feb.
P. S.
2937. For ISABELLA PRATTE of London, spinster.
Pardon. Greenwich, 5 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 17 Feb.
17 Feb.
S. B.
2938. To the LORD CHANCELLOR.
Protection for John Newington, mercer of London, going in the retinue of Ric. Wyngefeld, Deputy of Calais. Del. Westm., 17 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
18 Feb.
Calig. E. II. 47.
B. M.
Strype's Mem.
I. P. 13.
2939. JERNINGHAM and the COUNCIL OF TOURNAY to [WOLSEY].
In accordance with Wolsey's letters dated Westminster, 29 Jan., has "exh[orted with com]fortable words the provost and council of the town to send [commis]sioners" to the King and Wolsey. They have sent Nich. Dep[reys], last year high provost, Master John de Puys, great connet[able (?) and] Eloy de la Rue, high procurer of the city, with certain articles (copy enclosed) and desired Jerningham to write to Wolsey in their Favor. Touching the King's wish that the citizens be induced to entertain a certain number of men, &c., sends his opinion, with written instructions by [Robert] Kirk, for whom he begs credence. Have given letters of assurance to those discharged who had offended the King, and dared not go into England, that their charter[s would] be granted under the King's broad seal. Tournay, 18 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 2, mutilated.
18 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 91.
B. M.
2940. The EARL OF WORCESTER and TUNSTAL to [WOLSEY].
On the 14th the Emperor at Brussels swore to the treaty of Noyon in the presence of the King of Castile. This day Chievres and the Chancellor go to Cambray to contract a marriage betwixt Madame d'Angoulême and the Emperor with a dowry of 500,000 crowns. Lewis Maraton, in whom they have no fantasie of fidelity for all his painted words, says the Emperor will come to Mechlin to treat with them respecting an answer from England to their letters of the 12th. He is anxious to discover the feeling of England. They have given their opinion not to trust him, "for here we see nothing but abusion by fair words to suck money from our master and to deceive him in the end." The Emperor refused to see Worcester, who had desired to come familiarly to him as one of his servants. Sion gives good words, but has no such influence as was supposed. Thinks that he knew of the treaty of Noyon before. The King of Castile will not come to the meeting between the King and the Emperor—his pretence to avoid a meeting with the French is a mere blind. Tunstal advises to make the best of the amity as it stands, to consider it as binding, and not remit the matter to the Emperor, my Lady, Cardinal Sion, or any stranger to lead the bridle of his affairs any longer. The King must draw his foot out of the affair gently as if he perceived it not, giving good words for good words; "which yet they give us, thinking our heads to be so gross that we perceive not their abuses." Though the King has spent his money to bring the Emperor down to swear the peace of Noyon, thinks it well spent, as he has his word, and it will avoid a greater expence into which he would have been led by the Emperor. Mechlin, 18 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 2, mutilated.
Er. Ep. II. 12. 2941. JOHN COLET to ERASMUS.
Has received his letter by the One-eyed (Peter); did not know till then where he was. His edition of the New Testament is much sought after; some approving, some condemning it, using the arguments of Martin Dorp. Colet reads it with mixed feelings, glad of the new light, sorry for his ignorance of Greek, "sine cujus peritia nihil sumus." Looks anxiously for St. Jerome. Approves his work, De Institutione Christ. Principis. Wishes Erasmus quietly settled. The Archbishop, whom he visited a few days back, talked much about him. He is rid of all business, and lives in happy retirement (otio felicissimo). Has read his comment on Ps. I. and admires his Copia. Wonders Erasmus should praise his fortune, which is far from ample, and scarce sufficient for his expenses. Erasmus is learning Hebrew.
From his mother's house at Stepney; who is a cheerful old lady and often talks of Erasmus. Translation of St. Edward.
18 Feb.
S. B.
2942. For EDM. SMYTH alias THORNETON, Abbot of St. Mary's near York.
Release of 7,839l. 8s. 3d., left in the treasury by the Bishop of Durham, the late Abbot, for the King's use, as appears by indenture between the present Abbot and John Daunce and Wm. Pawne; of 21,980l. received through John Heron, John Jenyns and Th. Elderton; of 3,402l. 17s. 10¾d., received from the collectors of tenths in the province of York; of 520l. 8s. 0½d. received from the collectors of subsidy in the said province; of 436l. 13s. 4d., received from Wm. Pawne, in payment of 1,000 marks lent to Lord Darcy, captain of the town of Berwick; of 4,000l. received through John Mery; and of 4,201l. 3s. 8¼d. received from the said collectors of tenths. All these sums have been expended by the said Abbot, by the King's warrants. Del. Westm., 18 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 25.
19 Feb.
Galba, B. v. 92.
B. M.
2943. KNIGHT to [WOLSEY.]
Wrote last on the 16th. All his opinions are confirmed. Maraton promised to show him some letters of the French practices, which he had not done, possibly intending to deceive him as he intends to deceive Wolsey. On the 18th Chievres and the Chancellor left for Cambray. Does not intend to go there unless the King commands him. The French and they will soon agree, as they are both vehement enemies of England. Wolsey must be on his guard, as he cannot be sure of anything they will do. They talk of a marriage between the Emperor and the French King's mother; "and many sayth, whatever the personage be, money may make the marriage." Brussels, 19 Feb.
Hol., pp. 2, mutilated.
19 Feb.
Rym. XIII. 581.
P. S.
2944. The BISHOPRIC OF HEREFORD.
Restitution of temporalities. Greenwich, 25 Jan. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 19 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 15.
19 Feb.
P. S.
2945. For JOHN DYNGLEY, groom of the Chamber, and JOHN PARKER, yeoman of the Crossbows.
Licence to export 1,000 quarters of wheat: not to exceed 6s. 8d. the quarter. Greenwich, 18 Jan. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm. 19 Feb.
Fr. 8 Hen. VIII. m. 7.
20 Feb.
P. S.
2946. For ELEANOR VERNEY, wife of SIR RALPH (fn. 4) VERNEY, sen.
Grant of a tun of wine yearly out of the ports of London, Bristol and Southampton, by the hands of the Chief Butler of England. Greenwich, 17 Feb. 8 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 20 Feb.
Pat. 8 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 22.

Footnotes

  • 1. 10 Feb. on Patent Roll.
  • 2. Endorsed by Agarde. The first two leaves are placed after the last two in the valume.
  • 3. Tuke always decipher this name Marraton.
  • 4. "Richard' on Patent Roll.