Henry VIII: October 1523, 11-20

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1867.

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'Henry VIII: October 1523, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523, (London, 1867) pp. 1425-1436. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol3/pp1425-1436 [accessed 25 March 2024]

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October 1523

11 Oct.
Calig. B. VI.
291.
B. M.
3415. SURREY to WOLSEY.
Has received his letter dated at Hampton Court, 7 Oct., with another to Sir William Gascoigne. Will take order for defence of his grace's house at Norham; will put in it the most expert gunners that come from Portsmouth. Cannot spare Ringley or Cavendish. His men of Yorkshire will stand as near Surrey in the day of battle as they can stand. Thinks it will be necessary to have a strong garrison on the Borders for the defence of Berwick, Norham and Wark; otherwise there is no hindering the Scots from plundering by night, twenty or thirty in a company. Carlisle is "nothing fortified." Dacre tells him it will be hard to get 4,000 men to enter the town, as Surrey advises. Has provided him sixteen good iron guns. "I wolde ete no flesshe until Ester, and be bounde to goo to Rome upon my fete, upon the covenante your grace were at Duresme unto the tyme this nexte mone light were doon." Newcastle, 11 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: To my lord Legate.
11 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 87.
B. M.
3416. DACRE to SURREY.
Has received his letter of the 9th, with those from the prioress of Caldstreme and lord Ogle, which he returns. Hears that five more ships are come to Kircoubright; four being laden with flour, wine, two cannons and powder; the fifth being a French adventurer laden with victuals for sale. Cannot find out for certain whether any more came with the Duke than he stated. He was with the King at Stirling all Thursday, at Linlithgow on Friday; and if he holds his purpose made at Glasgow on Wednesday, he was in Edinburgh last night. He can easily bring his artillery to Carlisle. Expects the letters to Starkey will arrive at Lancaster today at two. Has made proclamation through his wardenry that all must be ready at one hour's warning, and has sent word to lord Clifford. No gentleman in the shire will remain here unless Dacre does. Asks for as many guns, bows, &c. as he can spare, and a cunning gunner. Will reward him beside his wages. Asks credence for his brother. Carlisle, 11 Oct. 15 Hen. VIII.
P. 1. Headed: Copie, &c.
11 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 90.
B. M.
3417. SURREY to DACRE.
Has furnished him with guns, powder, bows, arrows, bills, &c., and has ordered the power of Westmoreland, Richmondshire, Lancashire and Cheshire to go to him with all speed. If Albany approaches the West Borders, trusts to meet him before he has been one day on English ground. Has fifteen good ships of war ready, and when the Duke is with Dacre they shall land at Leith, and with the aid of 6,000 or 7,000 of the best horsed men he has, who will meet them at Edinburgh, in one day they shall burn Haddington, Edinburgh, Leith, and the best towns on the water, returning with all speed. Doubts not but the Duke in the meantime will have as much business as he can answer unto. Newcastle, 11 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
11 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 91.
B. M.
3418. SURREY to DACRE.
Has just received a letter from the Scotch queen, saying that Albany will not fail to advance on the 20th with a far stronger force than they expected, and will probably attack the West Borders. If he will provide eight or nine carriages, will send him for his fortifications sixteen good guns, which he has taken out of ships. Will send also plenty of powder, bows and arrows. If he and Sir Christopher could be spared for three or four days, would like to consult with them. As Surrey would prefer Albany to attack the East Borders for many reasons, advises him to give out that he is well prepared, and that he knows for certain Surrey will assist him with a main army, and has prepared ships and horse to go to Edinburgh and burn it in the Duke's absence. Sends him a letter to this effect, that he may show it to whom he pleases. The King desires to thank him for his service in Scotland. Newcastle, 11 Oct.
Begs him to come to him with all diligence. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
11 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 89.
B. M.
3419. MAGNUS to DACRE.
He will see by these other letters now sent to him that the Treasurer has him in remembrance. The King is pleased with his service done in Scotland, and says that wars cannot be continued without chances, and he is glad the late loss was rather in horses than men. Newcastle, 11 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
11 Oct.
R. O.
3420. WOLSEY to SIR JOHN DAUNCE.
Orders him to pay to John Offally, the bearer, one of the King's gunners, who is being sent with three others to the earl of Surrey in the North, the usual conduct money between London and Berwick. Hampton Court, 11 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Subjoined is a memorandum of the payment by Daunce, 50s. 12 Oct. 15 Hen. VIII.
12 Oct.
Calig. B. VI.
321.
B. M.
3421. WOLSEY to SURREY.
Has received his letters of the 8th, with the enclosures, confirming Albany's intention of invading England. Supposes the Earl has received the instructions sent to him to follow close upon the heels of Albany, though he has failed to acknowledge them. Thinks (1) these reports of the Duke's numbers and ordnance are greatly exaggerated; (2) that the Duke is compelled for his credit's sake to put the best face on the matter; (3) that, considering the distance between Glasgow and Edinburgh, it is impossible for him to assemble his forces in the short time specified; (4) the difficulty of providing victuals for 30 days in Scotland, for which two or three months would have been little enough; (5) the impossibility of transporting his ammunition across the moors, the rainy weather continually increasing, and the light of the moon being of no great use to a great army, but only to some light exploit in which the Duke would not hazard his own person. "Besides this, it is not unknown that king James, whom your father and you slew, was a man of great courage, well beloved and in great estimation amongst his subjects; and yet was it not little difficult for him to bring the Scots, the King's grace being then out of the realm, and the king of Scots having great treasure, victual, harness, ordnance and provision made of a long season before in the best and most covenable time of the year, to condescend unto the invasion of England, wherein what fortune and success they had may percase be a remembrance and example to those which at a more unmeet time would think to attempt the same."
Encloses him the proclamations desired by him. A letter from the King has gone to the earl of Shrewsbury. The gunners are despatched, and for his comfort the King sends to him my lord marquis, Sir Nich. Carewe, Sir Francis Brian, Baynton and others. Will send him the 8,000l. The lord Marquis will be warden of the East and Middle Marches for the time being. Thinks there is no fault in the posts, and no time lost, notwithstanding the distance Wolsey is from the King. Hampton Court, 12 Oct.
(In Tuke's hand.)—Marvels that he should have complained of not being speedily answered. He will cause men to be more remiss if he shows himself so unthankful for the diligence used. "And the King is not accustomed so oftentimes to make answer to letters containing only news, wherein, peraventure, amongst 20 there is scantly two found true." Praises him for diligence. Signed.
Pp. 5. Add.
12 Oct.
Ashmol.
1116. f. 114.
3422. TOWN OF DORLANS.
Summons to surrender, by Thos. Wall, Rougecroix pursuivant, in the name of the king of England and the duke of Suffolk his lieutenant, to the town of Dorlans, of which Mons. de Rumeny (Pontdormy) is captain. 1523, 12 Oct.
Fr.
12 Oct.
Calig. B. I.
170.
B. M.
Green's Princesses,
IV. 350.
3423. QUEEN MARGARET to [SURREY].
Has received his letter written this Monday, stating that he has not yet received any answer from Henry. Thanks him for the money he has sent her, of which she would not have spoken but for her great need. Hopes the King will allow her to enter his realm. Begs he will advertise her thereof by Patrick Sinclair, as this is the best time; otherwise she must make friends of her unfriends. The Duke "vol gang fordvard this Wedynsday to set apon Ingland." Sends a servant with her letters, to know if he will take peace with this realm, and France to be comprehended. Does this at the bidding of the Governor. He is to send such an answer as she may show the Duke, and to state in it "that vhan ewer ony pece be takyn be tuixt the raulmes," it shall be taken by her, and none others. Thus he will make much of her. All private communications to be made by Sinclar, but by none others. He has always been to her a true servant. Is very anxious he should write speedily. After the "hostyng," will not have so much leisure to write. Hears she is to be detained in St. Johnston, and prevented communicating with him. Edinburgh, this Monday.
Hol., pp. 4.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 94b.
B.M.
3424. QUEEN MARGARET to PATRICK SYNCLAIR.
The Governor takes very well with her, and gives her good words; but she will not fail to do the thing which he knows of. Goes to Lithquo on Tuesday to see her son. "He" (Albany) will be there to muster the Frenchmen, and remain till Thursday, when the King returns to Stirling, and Margaret to Edinburgh. He must not forget to send the money in haste with the news. "And show this bill where ye think best." There is no news as yet but what he knows. Eighteen carted guns have come to Edinburgh. Begs him to be wise; for there is great danger for them both. He must not do what he did last time. Leaves Jame Dogg in Edinburgh.
P. 1. Headed: Sent by my lord of Surrey, lieutenant. Copie.
13 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 94 b.
B. M.
3425. ii. QUEEN MARGARET to PATRICK SYNCLAIR.
The Governor came today to her lodging before she departed, and said he wished she would labor for peace. Synclare, therefore, must ask Surrey what he wishes her to do, for she dares not refuse to write what the Duke tells her; and Surrey must excuse her to the King for writing as the Duke tells her, and answer her as he thinks best about the peace; "but pray my lord of Surrey that I may make it, and none other, when it shall be made; nevertheless, make him stark to defend his matter to the utterest, for it will cause this side to desire the more." Surrey must not tell any one what she has written, or it would be her destruction. This Tuesday, viz. 13 Oct.
P. 1. Copy.
13 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 94.
B. M.
3426. _ to the PRIORESS OF C[OLDSTREAM].
They are fast approaching this coast. On Thursday 15 guns came to the abbey. On Sunday the Governor came to the town with 300 men, "and of them three score of pensales of white and yellow," and tarried with the Queen a quarter of an hour, "and she made evil cheer after his departing; but I trust in God that she shall take no displeasure, for this Monday sin nine hours she has been singand and dansand and the Frenchmen with her, but the Governor was evil disposed, and did not come to her this day." On Tuesday the King came to Lithco, and took musters of the Frenchmen. The Governor permits him to ride about Stirling as he pleases, has given him two gowns of cloth of gold and cloth of silver, and besought him to be blithe and merry, for he would spend his life in his service. The Lords have ordered that no Scotch man or woman should speak to an Englishman on pain of death. They say in this town that the Prioress is an Englishwoman, as she was before. The Earl of Murray is evil contented at her, but the writer does not know why. "Everyilke body is so rad that they dar tell [no] tydyngs for suspecion, for I saw never sa mony fleyt, flay the .. Ingland as they do us. Berwyk, Norham and Wark suld all ... tremble for flaydnes." Edinburgh, this Tuesday.
Begs her to thresh out all the corn she can, and put away the gear out of the place.
P. 1. Headed: Copie. To the priores of C. fra her kynsman.
14 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 88.
B. M.
3427. DACRE to LORD CLIFFORD.
Has seen a letter from him to Thos. Sandeford, Dacre's tenant, bidding him join lord Clifford at Newcastle on the 20th, with his tenants on the land he holds of Clifford. As Sandeford's father and grandfather have always served with Dacre, at the field of Branxton and other places, asks him to be contented that he and his tenants may serve with Dacre as heretofore. Advises him not to be too hasty about riding to Newcastle, upon Surrey's warning; for Dacre has since heard from him, and also from Scotland, that Albany intends to invade the West Border. Will show the letters, if he will send some one who can read. Is preparing for the surety of the Border, and has sent Sir Christopher to Surrey to ask for help if needed. He will return tomorrow, and, if Clifford send a servant, will show him what is to be done. Has laid posts into Cheshire for summoning the gentlemen. If the Duke come towards the East Marches, Clifford, Dacre and the others must all go thither in person. If he come to these Borders, Surrey, Clifford and the others must all come hither. Will send word to Clifford of the way he comes, two days before he enters England; and he had better not stir until he hears either from Surrey or Dacre. Carlisle, 14 Oct. 15 Hen. VIII.
Hears he has written to Dacre's cousin, Sir John Lowther, to the same effect as to Sandeford. Lowther holds his lands of the King, and is retained as household servant by the Legate, whose tenants attend on Dacre.
Pp. 2. Headed: Copie, &c.
15 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 93.
B. M.
3428. SURREY to DACRE.
Sends copies of news from Scotland, and wants them returned, as he has sent the originals to Wolsey. Asks what news he has heard, and what he thinks the Duke means by his words of peace spoken to the Queen. Thursday night.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
15 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 100.
B. M.
3429. HUMFREY CONINGSBY to DACRE.
Thanks him for his kindness to him and his late wife, and for the presence of him and his brother at her interment. Himself and his children are in great need of Dacre's favor and assistance, or his affairs "in that county" till he can go thither himself. Has sent to his uncle Robt. Moresby, Wm. Pikering, Gilbert Louther and others to attend to his affairs till he arrive. Desires Dacre's favor for them. London, 15 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
15 Oct.
R. O.
3430. FLORYS D'EGMONT, LORD D'ISSELSTEIN, to WOLSEY.
Suffolk is writing of their endeavors to meet the enemy. Has sent a short letter to the King. They are pressing so hard on the French, that it rests with the King to be made king of France. At the camp near Dourlens, 15 Oct. Signed: Florys.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A Mons., &c. le legat d'Angleterre.
16 Oct.
Add. MS.
24,965. f. 92.
B. M.
3431. DACRE to SURREY.
Thanks him for his treatment of Sir Christopher, and for the ordnance given to him. Hears from a credible person, who was in Drumbritton, that he saw 33 ships which came in with Albany;—the Rouen, given by the town of Rouen to the French queen; the Bollone, given to the King by Boulogne; the James, sent to him from Scotland, and 30 smaller ones. In these came 2,000 men, 100 being men-at-arms, well horsed, six great horses for the Duke, four great double cannons, fawcons, hagbushes, hand-guns, cross-bows, gun-stones, and powder, with horses and everything required for their carriage. On Thursday week, the Frenchmen slew a burgess of Glasgow and two women; for which they were delivered to the burgesses to be executed; but when Albany had left the town for Comarnawde, lord Fleming's place, where he would have spent the night, 80 Frenchmen came and rescued them. The Duke, hearing of it, returned immediately, and in the town gate, with a bastard sword, ran through two of them, hurt eight or ten, and put eight in the castle prison. The Duke spoke with the King at Sterling on Friday, came to Lithquo on Saturday, and on Sunday he rode with 80 horses to Edinburgh, stopping at the Queen's lodging, where he spoke with her a short space, and then rode down to Holyrodehous, where the Queen came to him. The spy followed him thither from Dumbritton. He says also that the Vice-admiral of France is with the Duke's ships at Dumbritton haven. Carlisle, Friday, 16 Oct. 15 Hen. VIII.
P. 1. Headed: Copie, &c.
16 Oct.
R. O.
3432. LORD DARCY.
The retinue of Lord Darcy in the war against the Duke of Albany and the Scots, from 16 Oct. 15 Hen. VIII.
Household: Gilbert Scott, captain, Crister Hopton, petty captain, Sir Robt. Arthington, and Sir Robt. Best, chaplains, and 98 men.
Agbrig: Arthur Pilkington, captain, and 100 men. Knaresburgh: Rauf Polayn, and 100 men. Hatifeld: Brian Hastings, and 99 men. Osgodcrosse: Thos. Triget, Thos. Portington. Stayncrosse: Thos. Wooderove, Thos. Sotehill. Skyrak: Sir John Everingham, Sir Geo. Darcy. Selby Lordship: Edw. Oglisthorp. Liberty of Saint Mary's Abbey and others: Edw. Gower. Morlay: Sir Walter Calverley and Sir Robt. Nevill. Snayth Lordship: Sir Ric. York. Berkeston: Thos. Ryther.
Retinue of John Melton.
All captains, with 100 men each. Names of petty captains and men given. Total, 1,751.
Pp. 53. The names of the men are given throughout.
17 Oct.
R. O. St. P. I. 144.
3433. WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.
Is sorry to be obliged to call upon the King for money. Has done the best he could, by his own means, and those of his friends, to supply such sums as have been required for the charges sustained by the King, for my lord Admiral, the duke of Bourbon, and the duke of Suffolk, which have been twice as much as he and the King estimated. Can make no provision for Suffolk's next payment, which begins in November, unless the King can spare for a time 10,000l., which shall be restored as soon as possible. Has used all pains in bringing in whatever was leviable, that more cannot be done. Westminster, 17 Oct. Signed.
Add.
17 Oct.
Add. MS. 24,965. f. 95. B. M.
3434. SURREY to DACRE.
Heard last night from one of his spies, who was at Edinburgh last Tuesday, that the Duke is making all preparations to come forward; that he has 2,600 foot and 500 horse, all French; that the earl of Huntley will not come, saying his leg is sore, with which the Duke is not contented; that he has divided his ordnance equally, and sent half to Holyrood, and half to Carlavoroke; and the spy thinks he will draw towards Dacre's March. Wishes for news from Dacre. Expects tonight or tomorrow the lord Marquis, Sir Nic. Carew, Sir Fras. Brian, Sir Edw. Baynton, Sir John Nevell and many others of the court. Saturday, 9 a.m.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
18 Oct.
R. O.
3435. SIR WM. BULMER to SURREY.
This Sunday Edde Storre's (fn. 1) sister came from Davy Home, and informed him that the Duke keeps his journey, and has sent part of his ordnance to Falley and Sowtherey. Home supposes that he will come to Wark. He has sent several of the Frenchmen to make proclamations at Dunse for (i.e. against) intercommunication of English and Scotch, as Surrey has already heard, so that from henceforth Storre dare not speak with Englishmen by daylight. He promises, however, to keep Bulmer well informed. Davy Lawder, a Scotchman, who was in Edinburgh last Friday, confirms the report of Albany's intentions, and says he makes his musters at Lawder on Tuesday next. The French came to Edinburgh on Wednesday night, "and brake open doors and make much revel." Lawder spoke with lord Bortek (Borthwick), whose kinsman he is. On Borthwick asking him, how he did, he said he was prisoner to George Urde. Borthwick said George was his prisoner, and bid him tell him "that he should keep no good within eight miles of the Borders, for if he did it would be tynt." Has caused Urde to write and thank lord Borthwick, and inquire for his own security which way the Duke is to come. Some think no man will know till the day of his musters. Norham, 18 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: to my lord Treasurer.
18 Oct.
R. O.
3436. JOHN [KITE] BISHOP OF CARLISLE to WOLSEY.
Begs him to have mercy on many good men, women and children of Bewcastell in his diocese who have not had sacrament since before last Easter. Also requests a passport for the bearer, a clerk of his diocese, whom he has licensed to study three years at some university. From the Roose Castell, 18 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: "My lord Legate's grace."
18 Oct.
Add. MS. 24,965. f. 96. B. M. Hearne's Otterb. 583.
3437. ROBERT ALANBY, Prior of St. Bee's, to DACRE.
A great number of ships were seen on the coast Friday and Saturday last. They are said to be of Albany's company, intending to land and devastate Cowpland. Begs he will order Christopher Curwen, of Workington, John Lamplew, lieutenant of Cokermouth, Richard Skelton of Brauthuate to give attendance with the whole company of this little angle of Cowpland to resist the enemy. St. Bee's, St. Luke the Evangelist.
Copy.
18 Oct.
Calig. B. II. 244. B. M.
3438. DACRE to SURREY.
Thanks for the news received by Chr. Thrilkeld. Thinks that the Duke's proposal to the Queen for peace is arranged to serve his own purposes. Has received from Surrey another letter, dated yesterday morning. Learns by it that the Duke has sent half his ordnance to Holyrood, the other to Carlaverok. Dacre can only hear that two great guns, which the Scotch call cannons, and other small pieces of little substance, and four field pieces of brass, have been brought to the Border, which are in Maxwell's keeping. The earl of Huntley has a sore leg, and is not minded to come forth. He and other gentlemen muster at Moffat, and there remain till they hear from the Duke. Cannot hear which way he will come. Begs to have the gunners of which his brother Christopher spoke. Carlisle, Sunday, 18 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: "To my singular good lord, my lord of [Sur]rey, treasurer and high Admiral [of] England, lieutenant of the North parties, and warden of the East and Middle Marches of the same."
Add. MS. 24,965. f. 92 b. B. M. 2. Copy of the preceding from Dacre's letterbook.
Vit. B. V. 209*. B. M. 3439. [CLERK to WOLSEY.]
* * * "no new Pope out of the conclave, where there be many old men sick and evil at their ease, but yet they hold fast." (In Clerk's hand.)
"This clause following is written and mentioned in a letter of Dr. Hanybal, written to my lord Legate, touching his own causes.—The 16th day of this month of October a friend of mine sent to me a secret servant, and told me that your grace had twenty-two voices in that scrutiny. I beseech God send you four moo; and then I have quod semper optavi, quod semper concupivi." (In Tuke's hand.)
A fragment.
19 Oct.
Galba, B. VIII. 83. B. M.
3440. KNIGHT to WOLSEY.
Russell arrived here with the King's money on the 15th inst., and my Lady gave him audience the same day. Showed her that the King had sent him hither with 12,000l., to complete the 100,000 cr. promised for 10,000 lanzknechts under count Felix. Hoped that she would receive the noble at 7s. st., as at the last payment, and convey the amount surely to Dole in Burgundy, discharging the King of exchanges. Told her the King did not mean that the payment advanced by him for one whole month should be counted, except from the date of delivery; that it was a great favor in the King to charge himself so much sooner than he was bound to do; and that it was expected the Emperor would contribute 200,000 cr., of which 100,000 at least should be employed upon the lanzknechts, the Emperor paying them for the first month, and the King for the second. My Lady bid them state these matters next day to Berghes and others whom she would depute, and on consultation with them would give answer.
Next day there were in council Berghes, Fiennes, Bevres and Marnix; and it appeared that but for Marnix they would have had no refusal. All agreed upon the first point, that she should see to the conveyance of the money, although she received no profit; to which Knight replied that the increase of the noble ought to meet the costs. On the other two points Marnix said they depended upon the treaty; and he thought the King, having sent this money to the high parts, would not like to see the Almains abandon the enterprise for lack of half a month's or a month's wages, which the Emperor might have a difficulty in sending, when the King was bound to furnish 100,000 crowns, and more if the enterprise required it. After much discussion, my Lady has appointed some merchants of Besançon to convey the money, whom Russell and one of his servants will accompany, disguised as merchants. On arriving at Besançon, Russell will receive the whole sum back, and, if Bourbon has left, wait till he obtain a conduct from count Felix to go to him. If Russell can exchange the noble for more than 7s., he is to pay the cost with the increase; if not, my Lady expects to be recompensed by the King. On the other two articles they request that Russell's commission may be enlarged. Did not receive at the first payment 8,000l., as Wolsey writes, but 7,680l. 19s.; so that 300l. 12d. are wanting (sic), which he begs may be remitted to be sent to Russell. Mechlin, 19 Oct.
Hol., mutilated, pp. 3. Add.: [To m]y lord Legate. Endd.
19 Oct.
Calig. B. III. 57. B. M.
3441. SIR WM. EURE to [SURREY].
Roderforth's wife has been in Scotland, and spoken with James Roderforth, who says he has been at Edinburgh; that the Duke has set his ordnance "forth of Borell More" (Burgh Muir) for Cannabe, which is the way to Carlisle, and had told the Lords he had made much cost to help them. He bid them remember their King and the nobles their fathers, who were slain at Flodden, adding that the Borders were destroyed, their towers and kirks cast down and burned, and it was but an earl of England and his father who had done them all the mischief. On his asking them if they could "find it in their hearts to meet that same man in battle that had done them all that displeasure, they kneeled of their knees, and said that they would do anything that he would command them." Bedelstan, 19 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: This be delivered to my lord Lieutenant.
19 Oct.
R. O.
3442. QUEEN MARGARET to SURREY.
Begs credence for the messenger, an old and trusty servant, and desires a good and honest answer, that she may show the Governor that her writing is thankfully taken, and that the King and Surrey will do for her more than any other, "and that when any good way is that it shall be wrought by me, and none other; not the less to do as ye know best the pleasure and will of the King's grace my brother, and that I be excused of my writing in this behalf; for I must of force do as he will bid me, or else get displeasure; but ye know my mind in all matters." 19 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
19 Oct.
Calig. B. I. 268. B. M.
3443. QUEEN MARGARET to SURREY.
Has spoken to the lord Governor, who is well disposed to peace between the two realms. In time past he had caused the Pope to write to the king of England, "and send hys sarvand vyth the Pepys bryf, and request to my lady Margaret of Flanderz to cause the sam to be convoyd" to the King her brother, which servant and writing were taken by England Wishes to know Henry's pleasure. Desires word by the bearer whether he has power to take truce, and comprehend France. 19 Oct. Signed.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. (at ƒ. 271): To my lord of Soray.
Calig. B. I. 269. B. M. Green's Princesses, IV. 351. 3444. QUEEN MARGARET to PATRICK SINCLAIR.
Thanks him for encountering so much danger for her, "which shall not be longer; for I shall know perfectly the Governor's mind toward you, and if it be not good, ye shall be sure that I shall take such part as ye shall take." Will not fail unless the King her brother refuse her, which she trusts he will not. Surrey writes, in answer to her letter to Sinclair by the prioress of Coldstream's brother, that he has not received Henry's answer; which is strange, as he wrote in another letter, which she sends, that he had received it. Is to ask Surrey for an explanation. Fears the King will refuse to let her come to his realm, in which case she must "seek other ways." Desires him to get a plain answer from Surrey that she may make ready her gear; and when she receives it Sinclair will know the Governor's mind. He makes Margaret the fairest promises, and bids her trust no one else; "and if he doth not well to you, I shall not be content." Still, would rather trust the King her brother, "for the Governor can say one thing, and think another; but all bodies gets fair words now, while this hosting be done; but after that, I hear say that he will be right sharp, by them that know his mind, and I dread I shall have my part." The Duke wishes her to send a servant to Surrey to see if the King will take peace with Scotland comprehending France. Desires an answer from Surrey which she may show the Governor.
Hol., pp. 3.
19 Oct.
R. O.
3445. SURREY to WOLSEY.
This day received Wolsey's letter dated Westminster the 16th, with a commission to my lord Marquis to be warden, and a letter to him. No letter was ever so much to his comfort. Thanks Wolsey for sending these noblemen, gentlemen and money, and trusts that, if Albany will continue his purpose, the King will have such service done as will please him; for there were never men more willing to encounter the enemy. Two Scotch spies saw the Duke coming into Edinburgh, and his ordnance set out of the town. They say he sets forward tomorrow, but no one knows to what border. Has at least 20 spies in his company. Intends to go to Morpeth on Wednesday, to be equally near the East or West March. If Dacre, Bulmer and Evers attend to his instructions, the enemy will find little corn or cattle, but many men to resist them.
The spies all agree that Albany will invade about Friday or Saturday next. He assures the Scots that neither Wark nor Norham dare shut their gates against him, and that Berwick will not hold out six hours. He boasts that Richard De la Pole will not fail to join him, or land in England when he comes to the Borders, and he has the Scots in such fear that no man dare find fault with the weather, which could not be worse with continual snow and rain. Thanks Wolsey for writing in his behalf to my lady of Savoy, by which he has no doubt he will recover his goods. Newcastle, 19 Oct. Signed.
P.S.—Encloses three letters just received from Dacre, Bulmer and Evers. Either Albany doth marvellously dissemble, or Ric. De la Pole has 6,000 or 7,000 ready to invade England.
Pp. 3. Add.: To my lord Legate. Endd.: My lord of Surrey, 19 Octobris, with sundry other letters of noblemen of the North.
19 Oct.
R. O.
3446. SIR W. BULMER to SURREY.
This Monday was visited by the wife of one of his spies, who dared not come himself. He came from Edinburgh yesterday, and says the Duke has such ordnance as Surrey has heard before, and has set them forward to Lawder. The warden of Scotland asked him if he thought Surrey would fight with him. He said, Yes. The warden answered he thought not, for Surrey did not know him well enough. The King was there, and viewed the ordnance. Albany offered a reward of 100l. in land or goods to any one that could show him of any Scotchman that had informed Surrey about his ordnance. The spy could not learn from the warden what way the Duke was going, as he kept it to himself, but believed he would be in England by Thursday next,—Bulmer fears, upon this border. The spy also reports that he has ordnance, which Bulmer does not believe, carts with swords upon either side, and barbed horses to draw them, which will go before him. Expects that he will attack Etall and Forde. Norham, 19 Oct.
P. 1. Add.: My lord Treasurer.
Calig. B. III. 50. B. M. 3447. WOLSEY to SURREY.
Copy of my lord Legate's letters to my lord Admiral." (fn. 2)
By his letter dated Newcastle, the 13th of this month, the King and he perceive that Albany was somewhat abashed at the answer made to him by Carlisle pursuivant of the assembling of the English power in three days. Believes, whatever his wish may be, he will never invade England, hearing of these preparations, but "will put water in his wine;" and as for Richard De la Pole coming into Scotland with 4,000 Almains "with the frask of the French king to make him a king," the French king is sufficiently perplexed by his losses in Italy, where they have found and shall find confusion enough, and by the success of the duke of Bourbon, who has brought Francis to such a pass he does not dare leave the town where he is. 10,000 lanceknights are ready to pursue him wherever he is to be found. The Emperor's army is at Guienne; the King's, prosperous and well victualled, "and favored by the French people as they pass, being now in the bowels of France." Francis will not help to make another king, when he can hardly keep himself king. It is nothing but French brags, "for assured may ye be, as ye well know there can not be more integrity, perfect and sure fidelity in lords and subjects to their prince than, thanked be God! the King's highness hath in this realm."
The King is satisfied lord Dacre should be at Carlisle. If it is necessary to divide his forces, the lord Marquis is to command one part. He is to thank Magnus on the King's behalf, Sir Will. Bulmer, Wolsey's chancellor, Sir Will. Evers and Sir Thos. Tempest, for their diligent service. Gunners and money have been dispatched. Will. Gonson has been sent by him to the King to take order for ships to guard the North seas.
In Tuke's hand, pp. 2.
Oct.
Calig. B. VI. 308. B. M.
3448. SURREY to MARGARET.
Has received her letter notifying Albany's desire for peace. Doubts not that he is advertised of the hard state of the king of France, many of whose noblemen have revolted and joined the Emperor. Paris is in great jeopardy; the King dares not come out of Lyons; the English army and the duke of Bourbon, with 10,000 lanzknechts, 800 men-of-arms and 9,000 French foot, are marching upon Paris. The Emperor's army is in Languedoc, the French army in Milan, greatly distressed. Is not, therefore, surprised that Albany thinks more of the interests of France than Scotland. Urges her to forsake Albany, who wants to carry away her son into France, whom she will never see again. His sole object is to advance Richard De la Pole. It will soon be seen how he will employ French money against England.
Pp. 2. In the hand of Surrey's clerk.
Calig.
B. VI. 307. B. M.
3449. SURREY to the CHANCELLOR OF SCOTLAND, the EARLS OF HUNTLEY, ARGYLE, ARRAN, and LENNOX, &c.
The Queen's grace has written that Albany is content she should be a means of peace between the two kingdoms, if France be comprehended. "The King my master doth not a little marvel of the presumptuous folly of the said Duke, to think that so light a personage as he should comprehend France." The Earl has full power to treat for peace whenever they shall please to "open their ien, and be no longer blinded with the feigned frauds and abusions of the said Duke and Frenchmen." Sends them a copy of his answer to the Queen. In Sept. last the Cardinals entered the conclave. Cardinal de Medicis or my lord Cardinal of York will be Pope, neither of whom are favorable to Albany.
Pp. 2. Copy in the hand of Surrey's clerk.
20 Oct.
Add. MS. 24,965. f. 99. B. M.
3450. DACRE to SURREY.
Sends a letter from Robt. Alanby, prior of St. Bee's, in Cowpland, (fn. 3) late prior of Wedrall and of St. Mary's, York, which he received by Nic. More and Wm. Gryndale, men of good reputation in St. Bee's. Was told by them, that the servants of the latter, being in the Isle of Man on Sunday week, saw 30 sail between it and Ireland, and that they kept watch for them that night and Monday till noon, on the island and the main land; that two great ships were seen on Friday, and one on Saturday, passing from St. Bee's Head to Ravinglas, and so southwards, which put them all in great fear, for they believed them to be Albany's, waiting to land when he enters the realm. His neighbours of Annerdale have made no stir as yet. Carlisle Castle, 20 Oct. 15 Hen. VIII.
P. 1. Headed: Copie, &c.
20 Oct.
R. O.
3451. SIR WM. BULMER to SURREY.
A spy who was in Edinburgh last night says that Huntley and Lennox have told the Duke, that as it is winter they cannot get their men to come forwards, but will come themselves with their households, if he require them. The Duke is much displeased. The town of Edinburgh supplies Albany with 40,000 bread daily, and ale and victual in proportion. Hamilton and Murray are tonight at Lawder, where they "takes" musters today of all the Marsh, Tevedall, Heshdale, and Howsdaill. The Duke has six carts, covered with steel and brass, with eight men in each, and certain guns, "and is carried with barbed horses, and goeth backward." He has 3,000 guns, large and small. Edde Storre's sister also came to him, and says the Duke has sent Maxwell to the West Borders, with 5,000 men, 12 ships and ordnance, commanding him to invade at Carlisle. He himself means to attack Berwick or Norham. "Also she saith there is comen to Dunse and Langton, and in like manner saith one of the Fogards, that there is there 20,000 men; whereof I am sure lies, for the parties where they come from is not able to make 10,000." The first spy says neither Huntley nor Lennox, nor any number of Northland men, had come to the Duke in Edinburgh yesterday at 12 o'clock. Norham, 20 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add.

Footnotes

  • 1. Added in the margin by Surrey: "This Edde Story is chief of counsel with Davy Home, and is one of mine espies without knowledge of his master, and the duke of Albany hath sent for him to be one of his guides.—T. Surrey."
  • 2. Headed "2d."
  • 3. Dated Oct. 18, q.r.