Henry VIII: May 1521, 21-31

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: May 1521, 21-31', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523, (London, 1867) pp. 516-529. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol3/pp516-529 [accessed 23 April 2024]

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May 1521

21 May.
Add. MS.
15,387, f. 88.
B. M.
1297. HENRY VIII. to LEO X.
As nothing is more the duty of a Christian prince than to preserve the Christian religion against its enemies, ever since he knew of Luther's heresy in Germany, has made it his study how to extirpate it. The poison has now spread so far that it will not readily yield to one attack. Thought it best to call the learned of his kingdom to consider these errors and denounce them, and exhort others to do the same. Has urged the Emperor and Electors, since this pestilent fellow will not return to God, to extirpate him and his heretical books. Has thought it right still further to testify his zeal for the faith by his writings, that all might see he was ready to defend the Church, not only with his arms, but with the resources of his mind. Dedicates, therefore, to the Pope, the first offsprings of his intellect and his little erudition. Greenwich, 21 May 1521.
Lat., copy, pp. 4.
21 May.
Add. MS.
15,387, f. 90.
B. M.
1298. HENRY VIII. to CARD. DE MEDICI.
Has always desired an opportunity of rewarding the Cardinal's services, which he knows both by Wolsey and by experience. Hearing, therefore, of the death of Silvester bishop of Worcester, has asked the Pope to confer the bishopric on de Medici in commendam, although the gift is not equal to his merits. Greenwich, 21 May 1521.
Lat., copy, pp. 4.
21 May.
Theiner,
No. 937.
1299. WOLSEY to LEO X.
As often as anything occurs worthy of the Pope's hearing, does not omit to confer with the Papal ambassador. Certain proceedings have lately taken place for the suppression of the Lutheran heresy, for a fuller account of which he refers the Pope to the Auditor. Begs the Pope's favor in reference to the legateship. This and other matters Clerk will explain more fully. London, 21 May 1521.
22 May.
R. O.
Ellis, 3 Ser.
I. 227.
1300. SIR ANDREW WINDESORE to WOLSEY.
Three of the King's servants are trying to obtain Dreynford Wood, in Agmondesham, Bucks, lately the property of the duke of Buckingham. It contains the best timber for building within 20 miles of Windsor, and is worth 200 marks or more. There has been, besides, an eyrie of "goosse hawks" for the last 20 or 30 years, and though they have been put from breeding this year "by misorder," they are not far off, and will no doubt return if the wood stands. The said persons are sure of the wood, if Wolsey stay it not. London, Wednesday in Whitsun week. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
23 May.
R. O.
1301. LORD DARCY.
Bill indented, 23 May 13 Hen. VIII., witnessing that Sir Alexander, viear of Chillynggam, has delivered to Richard Pickering, servant to Darcy, 160 lamys (lambs), worth 7d. each.
P. 1. Endd. by Darcy.
23 May.
Budæi Ep.
II. 11b.
1302. BUDÆUS to MORE.
Commends More's wit and native aptitude for writing; was struck with it on receiving his letters from Theobald. Has kept no copy of the letter he sent More by Sir Richd. Wingfield on his departure. Chatillon will present the letter; "eximia morum suavitate gratiosus." He is one of the few noblemen who has a taste for letters.
Divione, where the Court now is, 10 kal. Junias.
24 May.
Calig. D. VIII.
40.
B. M.
1303. FITZWILLIAM and JERNINGHAM to [WOLSEY].
I, Jerningham, left England on Saturday the 11th, and arrived on the Thursday following at Chatillon in High Burgundy. The French king lay in a castle eight leagues distant. To make Fitzwilliam privy to my instructions, I sent to him, and arranged to meet him at Saunsey, three leagues from the King's said lodging. Met there on Friday at 10, and sent to the Admiral to know when we might speak with the King. That day he was out hunting, and on the Saturday I was told I could not see him because the Queen and my Lady were to make their entry into Dijon, which I saw myself. On Sunday, which was Whitsunday, the Admiral told us that the King that day was confessed and healed sick folks, and did many ceremonies, so that I could not see him then. On Monday I had audience, delivered the King's letters, and declared my charge.
As to the sinister reports at Rome and in Almain, of which the King was informed by Fitzwilliam, Francis says he had told them to Fitzwilliam, but the King need not have answered them, for he gave them no credit. As to the article about the dispensation for the Emperor to marry the king of Portugal's daughter, Francis says he still pursues it; but as for the report that the Emperor might have my lady Princess, he never believed it; "[and] he had liever have my lady Princess, and though the King's [grace had] ten children, than the king of Portingale's daughter, w[ith all the] spices her father hath." He thanks the King for his indulgence towards the Scots, and says if they do not send ambassadors to the King, and perform their promises, he will abandon them.
A[t my] arrival there was a Scotch ambassador here, who [had no] audience till this day, Friday the 24th. We know not what his charge is, but the Admiral told Fitzwilliam, before Jerningham came, that the chief cause of his coming was [to get] Albany into Scotland, and he said they would put him off as long as they could, and not grant his desire. Today the French king told us that Daubeny had arrived at Dieppe out of Scotland. The day I declared my charge Francis asked for a copy of such articles in my [instructions] as I desired answer to, and promised to write to the King in reply, "as he would sign with [his hand] and abide by the same on his honor." Send a copy. The answer has been delayed from day to day, for what cause we know not, but they say because they would write nothing but the truth, for which reason they have sent into Picardy and elsewhere, to know what wrongs the Emperor has done. We asked him to desist from war, and submit his differences with the Emperor to the King's arbitration. He said the Emperor had oppressed him so long he could not give up the matter with honor; and that he had 44,000 men, French, Swiss and Almains, of whom 14,000 were with the young king of Navarre.
On Monday last Francis told us the young king of Navarre had entered Navarre with this force, and had taken St. John Peterport; and this day he said that on Saturday last the keys of Pamp[eluna] were brought to him, and that the duke of Nege, the governor, had fled to Spain; that the castle still holds out, but he thinks will not hold long; that the commotions in Spain had increased, and the lords of the realm had withdrawn, but John de Padell was distressed, "and th[at] he hath lost his head;" "that the Emperor hath not only assembled 14,000 men to s[end into the] French county of Burgonne to make war upon him, [but] that he himself intendeth to make an army and to come n[ear him] into Picardy;" that Emery and Lyn[ey] have desired the Emperor's leave to make war on him; that Chievres is sick and given over by the physicians; that there was a report the Emperor was coming to the Low Countries [to go] into England and marry my lady Princess, and that certain Englishmen would be sent over [to meet] him; which he does not believe. My Lady his mother says dom. Provot offered to lay his life that, if there were war, England would take part with his master in two months. We said if all promises were kept with England the breach would [not] come on the King's part. There is no lack of fair words in the King, my Lady or the Admiral, but they lose no time in advancing their causes. My Lady says if the Emperor had known where to find a more pr[ofitable] friendship he would not have sought the King's; whilst the alliance of her son with England was neither for aid nor dread, but only for love. We think they both desire it as much for fear as for love, and the King should look to his own profit as they do. We do not write to Wingfield, not having yet an answer to the articles. When it comes we shall send him a copy, though it must be by Calais, as the posts this way are stopped. Dijon, 24 May. Signed.
Pp. 5, mutilated.
24 May.
Calig. D. VIII.
42*.
B. M.
1304. FITZWILLIAM and JERNINGHAM to [WOLSEY].
After despatching our post, we were told [that Montpesat (fn. 1) ], this bearer, should be despatched with diligence to the King. You will see the news by our letters sent by the said post. According to our instructions, we desired the French king, on our master's behalf, not to commence war till we could inform the King of his answers to the articles we had d[elivered] him; which he refused, saying he had so [many] men in wages that the expense was too great to lose, and it would be long before he heard again from [England]. Jerningham then offered to go and return by post, but he would neither promise to wait till then, nor for 14 days, that we might advertise the King.
He has since heard that Navarre is won, and we think would be more easy to be entreated than before, for he thinks himself now even with the Emperor, who has won a castle of Robt. de la Marche's. We think Mountpeysard's charge is more to entreat the King not to be miscontent with the wyn[ning of] Navarre, and to feel what way the King leans, than to see whether he is recovered, for Jerningham told Francis that he was [recovered of] his fits and whole, and yesterday a servant of Fitzwilliam's brought similar news, which we showed the King. Digion, 24 May. Signed.
P. 1, mutilated.
f. 77. 2. Draft in Jerningham's hand.
24 May.
Calig. D. VIII.
72.
B. M.
1305. [FITZWILLIAM and JERNINGHAM to HENRY VIII.]
To the same effect as their first letter to Wolsey of the 24th of May. Imperfect and mutilated, pp. 7. Draft in the hands of both writers. The order of the folios is 72, 73, 83, 81.
Calig. D. VIII.
51.
B. M.
1306. [FRANCIS I. to HENRY VIII.]
* * * has given me great satisfaction, but hearing that you were unwell I have put aside all other things to send you Montpesat, whom you know, by whom I beg you to send me news of your health. As to the despatch of the said Jerningham I will despatch him in two days, and with him the sieur De la Batye, hoping you will be satisfied. I beg you will send back Montpesat as soon as possible, that I may hear how you are.
Hol., Fr., p. 1, mutilated.
25 May.
R. O.
1307. BONNIVET to HENRY VIII.
My master, hearing you were ill of a fever, sends the bearer, le sieur de Montpesat, to ask after your health. Dijon, 25 May. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add. Endd.
25 May.
R. O.
1308. BONNIVET to WOLSEY.
My master hears that the King is ill of a fever, and sends over the bearer, the sieur de Montpesat, a gentleman of his chamber, to ask about his health. He will not be at ease till he is told of his recovery, and is also grieved to hear of your long illness. Jerningham will be despatched in a couple of days, and la Bastye with him, by whom you will receive an ample answer to Jerningham's chares, which will content your master. Dijon, 25 May. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A mons. mons. le Cardinal d'Yort, legat et chancelier en Angleterre. Endd.
25 May.
Calig. E. I.
144.
B. M.
1309. AFFAIRS OF NAVARRE.
"Copie des articles extraictez de la lettre du dom. Pre[vost] datee du xxvme de May."—Has shown his letter to the treasurer Robert [Tett] (Robertet), who says his master will do nothing [unless] the king of England act as mediator. On Monday, had a fit of the gout; met with the Admiral going to Madame. He says the king of England will entreat no more, and that peace will never be between "you and the King," [until] you have restored the kingdom of Navarre. The writer answered, that would never be, except at the point of the sword. Letters came to the King from Desparroiz, on Thursday the 23rd, stating he had taken St. John Pie de Port, and was drawing towards Pampeluna; they talk as if they had gained the whole of Spain. Knows of no remedy, unless the army against the rebels of Castile be now turned against Navarre. The King has sent forces into Luxembourg, in addition to those that were before Maisieres; is assisted by the duke of Wirtemberg and the Swiss to carry the war into Alsace, and, as the writer hears, to Naples. Wishes to know by Richart the bearer, if it is possible "du dit ..." if the king of England will act as mediator. Has written this morning a long letter to the Admiral. Guillaume Carpentier has been commanded [not] to send letters without the King's leave. After the Admiral had seen (fn. 2) his letters he took them to the King, who gave Robert Tett the answer. At 8 in the evening Robert Tett called, and told him, that (1.) as touching the intentions of the King, if Henry will offer to mediate between himself and the Emperor, the King will give an answer to the English ambassadors lately arrived; (2.) the posts have not been stopped by his consent. Times are such that restrictions are necessary. Makes no doubt of a total rupture.
Fr., mutilated, pp. 3.
Calig. D. VIII.
52.
B. M.
1310. FRANCIS I.
Instructions to De la Batye, what he shall say to the king of England [in answer to] what Jerningham has said on the part of Henry.
Francis thanks the King for his offer of mediation. The King knows his aversion to war, which caused him to forbear his claim to Naples, when he could easily have made it good, with the large army he had beyond the mountains, being in friendship with the Pope and the potentates of Italy. He has also, "... a temps la composition d'Arthois," given the nomination of the officers [with the] emoluments of the greniers à sel in the lands which the Catholic King holds of him. He has forborne his claim to the kingdom of Arragon, and also to a large sum of money which the late king of Spain owed him for Roussillon, and 1,000 livres Viennoises, yearly due to him on the salaries of ..." The King Catholic has always used dissimulation towards him, and violated the treaties in many points, making new attempts against the sovereignty of Francis, and hindering him from collecting tenths and crusade money granted to him by his subjects. He has levied in Artois "la f ... francz fiefz et nouveaulx acquectz," which is a sovereign right. His officers hinder the commissioners of Francis from executing their orders in order to put him to expense. He has made proclamations, "a la Bretes ... Saint Omer," that no one should obey Francis or his officers; "pour l[equel a] Saint Jehan du Mont aux Fauxbourgs de Terouenne" he has given letters of pardon, and has ordered those capable of bearing arms to be ready to serve him, which is an act of sovereignty. Besides, though it is notorious that the Pragmatic is in force in the country of [Artois], by which right Francis nominated the Queen's confessor lately to the abbey of St. Eloy, the King Catholic has prevented the despatch of the bulls, saying that the Pragmatic never extended to Artois, and that the right of disposing of benefices belonged to him. He has cried down the money of Francis, and has forbidden the inhabitants of the said lordships to carry victuals into France. He hinders "les executeurs des amendes," and has caused several of the inhabitants to be condemned in heavy fines and banishment, because they had recourse to the justice of the French king.
Francis had been content that, if possible, the matter should have been amicably arranged; for which purpose he had sent "les presi[dent] Barme et avocate le Lievre" to Arras; but they had been unable to make any arrangement. (1.) By the treaty of Paris, Charles was bound at the age of 20 to do Francis homage for the counties of Flanders and Artois, which he has omitted. (2.) He has made no attempt to obtain the seals of the princes, towns, castles, &c. mentioned in the treaty of Noyon, although Francis is ready to do so on his part on behalf of his daughter Charlotte. (3.) The men of Fontarabia have invaded the inhabitants of H ..., for which redress has been refused, although Francis sent for that purpose John de Barola, "con[sciller]" of the parliament at Bourdeaux. (4.) Francis delivered to him the kingdom of Naples as the dower of madame Charlotte, on condition of receiving from him yearly, before the consummation of the marriage, 100,000 cr., which for some years he has refused to pay. (5.) He has violated the agreement to restore the goods of the Neapolitans who took the part of France. (6.) He has refused since his arrival in Spain to restore the kingdom of Navarre; by which refusal, according to the treaty of Noyon, Francis is at liberty to give assistance to that King. (7.) Although bound by the treaty of Noyon to marry Charlotte, he has sought a dispensation to marry his cousin german, the princess of Portugal. (8.) He has endeavored to persuade the Electors to supply him with men to invade Milan, promising to put the duchy in their hands. (9.) He has sent to [the lords of the] leagues the dukes of Brunswick and Neckembourg, the ... and others, to obtain of them 10,000 men to invade Milan. (10.) Contrary to the treaty of Cambray, he has removed faithful servants of Francis, and supported the rebels of Milan. (11.) His subjects in the Prevosté d Yvoir have made incursions against the towns of ..., Balarin, Francheval and Porau, which belong to the French jurisdiction of Mouzon. (12.) Some Spaniards committed depredations upon Breton merchants, and, after justice had been long denied, Francis was urged to grant letters of marque; but, at the request of the King Catholic, commissioners were appointed on both sides to meet on the borders of France and Castile. Francis named the ... of the French chancery and Pierre Potier, but justice could not be had, and the King was again applied to for letters of marque, when the ambassadors of the King Catholic persuaded him to appoint new commissioners, viz., Jehan de Calumcont and Fras. de. Cadenet, councillor in the parliament of Bourdeaux, who waited at Bayonne six weeks, but were not met by any one on the part of the King Catholic. (13.) Don John Manuel, the King Catholic's ambassador at Rome, has advised the Pope to recover the investiture of Naples by making a defensive league with Charles, saying that an offensive one might afterwards be formed to expel the French from Milan, by which the Pope should recover Parma and Placentia, and the rest of the duchy be given to the duke of Barri. (14.) Manuel has also told the Pope that his master would be married to the princess of England, as soon as he returned to Flanders, on which England would join the said offensive league. Nevertheless Francis does not believe Henry would consent to that marriage, and the English ambassador at Rome told the Pope there was no such project.
All this Francis has borne with for the sake of peace, but the King Catholic has sent him "articles de deffences" (defiance), which he has sent to the king of England, with his reply and justifications, which are so peremptory, there can be no reply to them.
Whereas England thinks that, as Robert de la Marck desists from making war on the King Catholic, an obstacle to peace is now removed, Francis replies that the defiance of the King Catholic bears that as Robt. de la Marck has made actual war upon him, he holds the treaty violated, notwithstanding his subsequent desistance. Since the defiance, Charles has hired mercenaries, who have plundered the lands of Francis in the lordship of Meuzon, and besieged Mezencourt, which holds of the Archbishop and duke of Rheims, first peer of France. Francis, therefore, has no doubt Henry will see that the breach has come from the King Catholic, and he would not refuse the King's mediation, but that he has now his army ready, which he would disband at a great disadvantage; but if the King Catholic is willing to make reparation, he will withdraw it. He understands that Charles makes two complaints against him: (1) that he is the cause of the commotion in Spain; and (2) touching Navarre. The first he denies, and says he knew nothing of the sedition until he heard of it at Abbeville by letters from his ambassador in England. As to Navarre, although he is justified in what he has done by the treaty of Noyon, he put it off as long as possible, hoping that Charles would be reasonable, but since the defiance he has ordered his lieutenant in Guienne to assist the king of Navarre as much as he can.
Fr., mutilated, pp. 11.
R. O. 1311. SIR WM. FITZWILLIAM'S INSTRUCTIONS.
The declaration of the King's mind upon the articles delivered by the French king to Sir Wm. Fitzwilliam, touching the settlement of variances between the said King and the elect king of Romans.
Henry thanks him for consenting to mediation, in spite of all the injuries committed by the king of the Romans, by sending him a defiance in writing and other acts, and for not regarding his expense in collecting an army, and the advantages he now has for remedying those injuries. He is pleased at this proof of his affection, and will endeavor to obtain redress of his wrongs as zealously as he would do in his own causes. As Francis is content that he should send Wolsey to Calais to meet the deputies of the king of the Romans, the form of a compromise should first be devised by the French king and the king of the Romans, authorising him to act as mediator, without which the King and his lieutenant would only be private persons, and have no power to do anything. As Francis is bound not to treat with the King of Romans without the Pope's consent, Henry agrees that he should ask his Holiness to send persons to Calais on behalf of the Holy See. He commends Francis for consenting to a truce during the conference, at the persuasion of his mother, for nothing could be done without this. Advises him to conclude one for eight months or a year, and send out letters from the date of which the truce should begin, with a clause inserted for the further prorogation, in case the differences are not composed by that time, for which Henry will spare no labor.
Pp. 5, with one correction in Wolsey's hand. At the foot of the last leaf, in Ruthal's hand: "The post thro owt Fraunce."
27 May.
R. O.
1312. The BASTARD OF SAVOY to WOLSEY.
Have received your letter about the obligation of 7,000 cr. a year, and have seen the minutes you sent for changing the form of the obligation of Mons. de Samblançay and the generals, and of the King's ratification. Francis has shown the latter to his council; and, after some debate, they think it should not be despatched. As to the obligation, Samblançay and the generals demand the return of the first one despatched by them, and they will then see about the despatch of the other. Dijon, 27 May. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A mons. le Cardinal d'York, legat en Angleterre.
27 May.
R. O.
1313. SIR THOMAS TRENCHARDE to SIR WM. COMPTON.
Enclosing the confession of Agnes Clifton, of Rampsham, against Sir Robert Sherrard, parson of Rampsham, Dorset, which the said Robert denies. He is, however, in prison until the King's pleasure be known. 27 May 13 Hen. VIII.
Hol.
ii. Confession of Margery Stone, of Rampsham, before Sir Thomas Trencharde and William Wadham, at Dorchester, 22 May 13 Hen. VIII. First, that one Agnes Clifton told her that Sir Robert Sherrard "should say, that the King's grace that now is, nor King Henry VII., his father, were not worthy to wear the crown, for he said that the father of King Henry VIII. was a horsegroom and a keeper of horses."
John Clifton deposes, that the said Agnes his wife told him how "Sir Robert Sherrard axed of her, when she heard any tidings from her husband, he then being, as he remembereth, with the King's grace at Tournay; and the said Agnes said she heard no tidings lately of him; and then the said Sir Robert said, that it was marvel if that the King's grace should do well, for he had no title unto the crown more than ye have; and then she said unto him, 'Why say ye so; ye be to blame;' And then he said he came to the crown by dint of sword. And those words were spoken in the church-yard at Rampsham, afore the great tombstone, but what day and year he cannot say."
iii. Desposition of Agnes Clifton to the same effect.
Signed by Trencharde and Wadham.
Pp. 2. Endd.
28 May.
R. O.
1314. The EARL OF ARUNDEL to WOLSEY.
Sends by his servant, the bearer, a person who has been arrested for "divers words inconveniently spoken," with his examination. Downeley, 28 May. Signed.
P.1. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's good grace. Endd.
29 May.
Calig. D. VIII.
46.
B. M.
1315. FITZWILLIAM and JERNINGHAM to [WOLSEY].
On the 28th, received your letter dated Westminster the [20th] inst., enclosing a copy of a letter sent to dom. Provot, [with a] letter from the King to the French king, which, according to your command, we delivered to Marigny on his arrival here. Told the French King of the King's recovery, and that he was going on pilgrimage, which he was glad to hear. Explained the justice done to the duke of Buckingham, and the loyalty of the other lords, and thanked him for the good words spoken to Fitzwilliam of the King. Mentioned that the Emperor, through his ambassadors, had offered to submit to the King's arbitration, and that the King hoped Francis would do the like. Francis replied finally, that he saw the dissimulation of the Emperor, and that he could not afford to lose the opportunity, for the Electors would grant Charles nothing, the commons of Spain were rebellious, and he had failed with the Swiss. He said the Emperor had intrigued to set the King and the Electors against him, and put him from the duchy of Milan; that he had desired the Electors to put their hands to a letter promising to take part against France, to which the Electors replied that they had received letters from Francis which showed that he had no cause to make war upon him; that [Nassu] and Emery had assembled 9,000 or 10,000 men to maintain the siege laid by count Felix to Messancourt, which Francis means to raise; for which purpose Saint Pol and the Seneschal of Armagnac, who is master of the army, have left the court. Francis says the castle and village of Messancourt are upon his ground, though formerly only the village was. He says, he has in Italy 1,400 men of arms, 6,000 Swiss and 4,000 foot; for what purpose he did not say, but, as we are told, for an enterprise on Naples.
Can have no answer to the articles delivered by Jerningham to the French King, except that Mons. [la Batye] will make answer to the King. The reason they give for not answering is, that they have sent to the captains upon the frontier to know in what places the Emperor's subjects have made incursions; which, as far as we can learn, are no great affairs. The greatest is that count Felix, as above mentioned, lies in a village that holds of the French king. Think they only want to gain time for some great enterprise, which they do not wish us to know, for they kept us ignorant of the Navarre affair till he had conquered it. Although they treat us well the delay is very unseemly, considering that Jerningham came with such diligence. The Admiral said it was a month before they had answer from England to the articles they sent, and we think the answer might be made sooner, for, as the Emperor's army lies, a post could get there in a day and a night, and Jerningham has been here twelve days. After these conversations the Admiral said, no one knew the Emperor's dissimulation better than the King and you, and that the Emperor was playing false both with England and France, or there was something else that was not well; and with that he shook his head, but what he meant we cannot tell. Although we have no answer, have sent a post to Wingfield, with the copy [of the letters] which we send you now and have sent before. Are compelled to send the post [by Calais], though the way is twice as long as it should be, all other ways being stopped.
Could not induce Francis to abstain from war till we had advertised the King. He said if Charles meant to treat, he might treat now in the war time; he himself would not lose a minute in his preparations, yet if it came to treating, he would put it in the King's hands sooner than in any other. The night before La Batie left for England, he told us that if [the Emperor] would perform all covenants with England he was sure there would be peace. Digion, 29 May. Signed.
Pp. 4, mutilated.
Ib. f. 82. 2. Draft of the commencement of the above in Fitzwilliam's hand.
  Mutilated, pp. 2.
Ib. f. 48. 3. Draft of the latter part in Jerningham's hand.
Mutilated, pp. 5.
A portion of the draft missing, between the two.
29 May.
R. O.
1316. FITZWILLIAM to WOLSEY.
Since the King came to Dijon, I have often called upon the Admiral, the Great Master and Mons. Semblaunce, for an answer touching the ratification and the obligation. They say now that the King will not grant the ratification, and that the generals will not seal the obligation till they have the one which is in your hands, as you will see by the letters of the Great Master and Semblaunce in this packet. According to my first instructions, told the King "on mine own head" that I wondered he should stick at the ratification, as he had promised in his letter there should be no default in the payment, and the ratification was only desired because the days were so long. He answered it was a matter that touched his generals, for he had no need to borrow money. "And then I said, 'Sir, your grace shall take no displeasure of that I shall say to you. Meseems your grace should not stick at this ratification, seeing how largely ye have promised by your letter, and the said ratification changes no purpose.' And he said roundly to me again, 'This is the mervailloust matter that ever I saw. Would ye have me to borrow money whether I will or not ? I tell you I have no need to borrow money; and so he went from me." Spoke to the Admiral, who said he would never consent to this ratification, since it bound the King, though the matter itself was nought, and he bade the generals do as they pleased. Mons. Semblaunce says the same. Spoke with him myself several times, and sent Bartholomew Salveat to him, who has taken as much pains in this matter as any one could do.
Think they are sorry the first obligation is in your hand; and if they got it, you would never have it again. If you keep it, I think you will bring them to seal this obligation at last. Never saw men speak fairer when they want anything, nor stiffer when any one desires what they do not wish to grant. "For I said to the Admiral, I wist not what your grace would think in this matter; but an I had made request twice by my letters, as your grace hath done, and that they would say me nay to grant that thing they had passed afore, and seeing my desire changed no purpose, I would surely think great unkindness." He said again that I must be content in all things that touched his master's honor. I answered that I did not know it was against his honor; "and he said plainly, Yes." The Great Master gave me ever good words, but his deeds were contrary. The Admiral says La Batie will speak with you about this matter. Digion, 29 May. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: To my lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
29 May.
R. O.
1317. CHARLES V. to HENRY VIII.
Have received by Sir Ric. Wingfield, your ambassador, your letters of the 5th, and am glad to hear of the good health and prosperity of yourself and my aunt. Was pleased with his charge, which showed the continuance of Henry's good wishes and affection. As to his request that Charles should not commence a war, is determined not to be the first to break the peace, as he has always written to the Bishop of Badajoz and Helna. I have not been the first to do so, as I have showed your ambassador; but I cannot endure the continued infractions of treaties, which increase daily. Has spoken more fully to Henry's ambassador, and also written to the Bishop of Helna, for whom he desires credence. Worms, 29 May 1521. Signed and sealed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
29 May.
Calig. E. III.
33.
B. M.
1318. SIR RIC. WINGFIELD to [FITZWILLIAM and JERNINGHAM].
I find no difficulty on this part. The Emperor will be content to give up hostilities, in spite of all provocations, and to submit to the King's mediation, if none of his dominions are invaded by the French king; but if Francis invade Navarre or any other of his dominions, he is prepared to attack France without delay in more parts than one; and, I assure you, is better furnished than the French probably reckon. Chievres died this night, at midnight, who has been the only obstacle hitherto to his breaking with France. The imperial diet [met] on Saturday last, when an aid was granted to the Emperor, such as has not been heard of, to be employed on the expenses of the Emperor's coronation and passage through Italy, and for his defence. The army is ordered to be ready at a short warning. I hear that dom. Pr[ovost] has written to his master here, that he knows well [Robert] Tete will tell him the French king will not consent to the mediation of England, but will be content to refer everything to Chievres. If so, our master will have cause to think that Francis has been dissembling; for which I should be sorry. The Emperor is sending to England a justification of himself against the French king's charges, which proves that not he, but Francis, has broken the treaty of Noyon. "I do write un[to] you this, to the intent that ye may use the knowledge of the same in such discreet manner as, by your wisdoms, ye shall th[ink] most necessary for the bringing to good effect of your charge. Worms, Corpus Christi even. Signed.
In cipher, by Tunstal. pp. 2, mutilated.
Calig. D. VIII.
44.
B. M.
2. Decipher of the above in Fitzwilliam's hand.
Pp. 3, mutilated.
29 May.
R. T. 137.
1319. FRANCIS I.
Warrant for the payment of 180 livres Tournois to Nic. Croismare, who went to Scotland with 5,000 cr. g. for the sieur d'Aubigny and Jehan de Planis, starting from Rouen on the 26th Jan., and returning on the 26th April. Dijon, 29 May 1521.
Fr.
31 May.
R. O.
1320. PIERS EGGECOMBE, ANDREW HYLLERSDON and JOHN WYSE to the COUNCIL.
Had been desired by lord Broke to examine Wm. Warde, of Horebryge, and Sir John Estcott, parish priest of Monkyn Bucland, concerning words spoken by Nic. Parker, servant to Lord Broke. Inclose the exami- nations, in which they were assisted by John Wyse, squire of the Body. Parker denies the words imputed to him, and is in lord Broke's keeping till the King's pleasure be known. Bere, 31 May. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my lord of Devonshire, his good lordship, and to Mr. Marney, chancellor of the duchy, and to other of the King's most noble council.
Endd.: A matter concerning the lord Broke of being of counsel of the duke of Buckingham's treason.
2. Deposition of Wm. Warde, of Horebryge.
R. O. Was sitting in my own house with Sir John Estecott and Nic. Parker, "my lorde Broke ys hunt," on the 16 May 13 Hen. VIII., talking about the duke of Buckingham. Estecott said it was a pity such an honorable man should order himself so against God and his King; and Parker said to the priest and me "in counsel," that the Duke made lord Broke "a council of this matter" seven years ago, and asked him to join his household, mentioning the fee he should have, and how many gentlemen and yeomen he should be allowed, but Parker did not say how many; and then I rebuked him, and said I would tell mine lord of."
Hol., p. 1.
R. O. 3. Deposition of Sir John Escott, parish priest of Monkyn Boclond.
To the same effect as the preceding, and in nearly the same words.
Hol., p. 1.
May.
R. O.
1321. PAYMENTS from FRANCE to ENGLAND.
"Pro milione solutum:"—Before the date of the obligation, 100,000 francs; 1 Nov. 1515, 50,000 f.; 1 May and 1 Nov. 1516, 100,000f.; the same sum in 1517, 1518, 1519, and 1520; 1 May 1521, 50,000 f. Total, 700,000f.
"Pro Tornaco (Tournay) solutum:"—On the day of surrender, 1518, 50,000f.; 1 May 1519, 25,000f.; same sum in Nov. 1519, May and Nov. 1520, and May 1521. Total, 175,000f.
"Pro residuo debiti Tornacensis solutum:"_
Lat., p. 1. Endd.: A bill specifying certain sums of money which should have been paid unto the King out of France.
R. T. 137. "Pensions du Roy d'Angleterre et de ses officiers; 12 comptes;" from Nov. 1514 to May 1521.
i. Copy of letters patent of Lewis XII. to the general councillors of the finances, dated 22 Aug. 1514, stating he has agreed to pay 1,000,000 golden crowns to the king of England, for the acquittance of the 745,000, which king Charles owed to Henry VII.,—that sum being due from Charles duke of Orleans to Margaret duchess of Somerset,—and for maintaining the alliance; 50,000 livres Tournois to be paid every half year at Calais. Astremoine Faure is appointed to make the various payments, and to give pensions to certain princes, lords, and others of the council and house of the king of England.
ii. Deed of the councillors of the finances, certifying that they have taken Faure's oath, &c.
iii. First account of A. Faure, of the payment in Nov. 1514. To the king of England, 50,000 livres; the dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk, and the archbishop of York, 875 livres each; bishop of Winchester, 525; Charles Somerset earl of [Worcester], 1750; earl of Salisbury, lord Talbot, 875; seigneur de Poningnes, 525; Sir Thomas Lovel, 175; Sir William Compton, chief groom of the chamber, 350; Meautys, secretary, 87; Clerencieulx, 87.
iv. Copy of letters patent of Francis I., confirming the appointment of A. Faure to pay money to England. Compiegne, 5 Feb. 1514[—15], 1 Fras. I.
v. Second and third accounts of Faure in May and November 1515.
vi. Payment to Mary queen dowager of France, of 39,000 livres of Tours, for her expences. By her acquittance she acknowledges the receipt of 200,000 crowns for restitution of her jewels.
vii. Payment to the archbishop of York of 1,050 livres, which the French king, by letters patent dated 6 April 1516, ordered to be paid him for the pension of lord Ponynges, Wolsey giving two acknowledgments, dated 1 June and 1 Nov. 1515.
viii. Account of the payments in May 1516:—The King, 50,000 livres; the cardinal of York, 1,400; &c.
Same for Nov. 1516, May and Nov. 1517, and May and Nov. 1518.
ix. Account for May 1519:—To the King, 50,000 livres, in part payment of 600,000 gold crowns for Tournay, 25,000 livres. To Wolsey, 1,400 liv., in part payment of 12,000 in recompence for the bishopric of Tournay, 6,000. To others as above.
x. Accounts for Nov. 1519 and May and Nov. 1520.
xi. Payments in May 1521. To the marquis of Somerset (sic), 1,000 liv., in part payment of 2,000; to Jacques de Castillon, a gentleman of the king of England's, 150, part of 300; &c.
Original in the archives of France.
Calig. D. VIII.
176.
B. M.
1322. FRANCIS I. to [HENRY VIII.]
The terms offered to him by the King Catholic compel him to notify them to the King, in the confidence he entertains of Henry's friendship in matters touching his honor.
Hol., p. 1, Fr.
Calig. D. VIII.
190.
B. M.
1323. FRANCIS I.
Answer to the articles delivered to the king of France on the part of the elect king of the Romans.
(1.) The French ambassador was told that the Emperor consented to the payment of the 100,000 cr., and would make no objection to the overtures which his ambassador the dom. Provost had notified to him, if that were all. It is to be considered that the French king has a clear and evident right to the kingdom of Naples, which he could easily have got into his hands after his conquest of Milan, considering the intelligence he had with that kingdom, his friendship with the Pope and Swiss, and the army which he had already in Italy. Nevertheless, to spare bloodshed, he would have consented to give that kingdom as a marriage portion to his daughter, on condition that the king of the Romans should pay 100,000 cr. a year until the consummation of the marriage. For some time he has omitted this payment, so that there remain 150,000 cr. in arrear, and another term will be briefly due. It is not enough to say that he is willing to pay according to the said article, especially as the subsequent articles mention things which do not touch the French king, and appear only intended to release him from the obligation. (2.) As to the three articles following, Robt. de la Marck justifies his invasion on the ground that he was bound by oath to the peers and "hommes de fief" of his duchy of Bouillon to vindicate their rights, which had been infringed by the lord D'Emerye, who, on pretence of a sentence which he says he has obtained, would have spoiled by force of arms the fort of Jerges. Although the king of the Romans was applied to for redress, it was long delayed, and finally denied; for which cause Robert de la Marck left the service of that King, and returned to that of the king of France. But Francis has not given him the least aid. On the contrary, he has sent to the Swiss to tell them that the men raised by the sieur de Floranges were not for him, and desire that they would stop them, and take those who were engaged in levying them, as they belonged to his own guard. He has also ordered the governors of Burgundy and Champagne not to allow any of his subjects to take the pay of Robt. de la Marcke on pain of their lives; and has sent a gentleman of his chamber to Robt. de la Marcke and Floranges, to persuade them to desist from their enterprise. (3.) The King is not aware that the duke of Gueldres is making any attempt at war, and has not sent him any money. (4.) The reason of the king of Navarre's departure from the French court was to get money from his subjects for the marriage of his sister with the duke of Lunebourg; and if he did make an attempt to recover his kingdom, of which his father and mother were unjustly deprived after possession by their ancestors for 800 years, what wrong was done by the French king, to whom the king of the Romans promised by the treaty of Noyon, that Navarre should be restored to its own king within a year, it being now four years since the treaty was made? (5.) As to the last article, in which Charles threatens to regard any attempt of Robt. de la Marcke as a breach of the treaty, it has been shown already that the above enterprises are no violations of treaties, although the king of the Romans has broken the treaties in several points, as Francis is ready to show, and would have done so already but for his desire to avoid war. But Charles need not be surprised if Francis now put himself in order for defence, especially as he is informed that the king of the Romans has raised a great number of foot to attack the extremities of his kingdom. (6.) The King has since been informed that the King Catholic has declared to the Electors that he regarded the war made upon the lord D'Emery by the lords of Sedan and Florange as a breach between Francis and himself; for which cause he had raised 3,000 lanceknights, whom he intended to join with 12,000 or 15,000 foot, and about 3,000 horse, under D'Emery. (7.) 15,000 or 16,000 foot assembled on the frontiers, on learning that the French king had no wish for war, returned home at the command of Francis. The King will thus see the occasions which the King Catholic has sought for a rupture.
Fr., mutilated, pp. 9.
Ibid. f. 185. 2. Another copy, also mutilated.
May./GRANTS. 1324. GRANTS in MAY 1521.
2. John Burges, B.D. Presentation to the church of Sutton Colfelde, Lich. and Cov. dioc., vice Geo. Hennage, resigned. Del. Westm., 2 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 2, m. 19.
2. Geo. Hennage, LL.B. Presentation to the church of Howbie, Linc. dioc. Del. Westm., 2 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 2, m. 19.
2. Wm. Tanfelde. Custody of lands in the town of Creton, Northt., held by grant of Ric. II. by Hen. Ferror, and leased by Edw. IV. to Wm. Barowe. Westm., 2 May.—Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 19.
3. John Adams and Ric. Lewys. Licence of alienation. The above are seized, to the use of Wm. Jenkins, of land in the More, Shropshire, held of the crown at a rent of 2 knives (fn. 3) yearly, and have licence to alienate the premises to John Hewster, mercer of London, John Gostwyke, Ric. Gresham, John Gresham, Wm. Locke and Ric. Austen. Westm., 3 May.—Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 18.
4. Th. Burnell, of Yate, Glouc. Pardon for killing in self-defence John Dolyng (or Billyng). 4 May.—Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 19.
6. Anth. Savage of Elmeley and Hanley, Worc. Pardon for the murder of John Pauncefote, of Hasfeld, Glouc., justice of the peace in co. Glouc. Greenwich, 30 April 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 6 May.—P.S.
6. John Underhill, the King's chaplain. To have the canonry in the collegiate church of St. Stephen, Westminster, vice Th. Larke, resigned. Del. Westm., 6 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
8. Th. Kayse, of Estgrenewich, Kent. Protection; going in the retinue of lord Berners, deputy of Calais. Del. Westm., 8 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B.
11. Rob. Punsunby alias Ligh, clk. To have the canonry of Onderton, in the collegiate church of Burgenorth, vice Th. Leigh, M.A., resigned. Greenwich, 4 May 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 11 May.—P.S. Pat. p. 1, m. 18.
11. Th. Walle. To be Rougecrois pursuivant, with 10l. a year. Greenwich, 4 May 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 11 May.—P.S. Pat. p. 1, m. 21.
12. John Dodson. Presentation to the church of Hanworth, London dioc. _, 12 May.—Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 19.
12. Sir Wm. Thomas. Lease of the lordship of Drusloyn and appurtenances, for 21 years; rent 8l., and 40s. of increase. Del. Westm., 12 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 2, m. 1.
13. James Bellingham, of London. Protection; going in the retinue of lord Berners, deputy of Calais. Greenwich, 28 April 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 13 May.—P.S.
16. Humph. Hardynge, chaplain. Grant of the perpetual chantry of Brayles, parcel of the earldom of Warwick, vice John Emyns, alias Chesse, deceased. Greenwich, 11 May 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 16 May.—P.S. Pat. p. 1, m. 12.
17. Wm. Alye alias Lyle, of London, tailor. Pardon for breaking into the house of John Webster at Pekham, on 4 Aug. 8 Hen. VIII., and taking a tawny coat, a tunic, a doublet (duploidum) of worsted, and a jacket, value 13s. 4d. Del. Westm., 17 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 3, m. 18.
17. Sir Marmaduke Constable and Barbara his wife. Livery of lands; the said Barbara being sister and heir of Mary, wife of Sir John Normanvyl, who was tenant by the law of England of the inheritance of the said Mary. Del. Westm., 17 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 1, m. 4.
17. Sir Th. Strangways. Livery of lands as s. and h. of Sir James Strangways, and grandson and h. of Sir Ric. Strangways. Greenwich, 7 May 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 17 May.—P.S. Pat. p. 1, m. 4, 5.
17. Sir Ric. Weston, knight of the Body, the King's councillor. Grant, in fee, of the manor of Sutton, Surrey, found by inquisition p. m., at Suthewark, 4 Feb. 12 Hen. VIII., before John Lovette, escheator, to have been held by Margaret countess of Richmond, on whose death it descended to the King. Del. Westm., 17 May 13 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 2, m. 18.
26. Convent of Holy Trinity, Ipswich. Inspeximus of a charter of Edw. [III.], who, at the instance of Wm. de Culfo, granted the convent free warren in their lands of Mendham, ... ham, Preston, Benseligh, Foxole, Chelmington, Todenham, Helvyngham, Ipswich, Stonham and Crecynge, Suff. Westm., 26 May.—Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 16.
28. John Parker, clk., LL.B. Presentation to the church of Southill, Exeter dioc., in the King's gift by the attainder of the duke of Buckingham. Richmond, 29 May 13 Hen. VIII. Del. Hampton Court, 28 May. (fn. 4) —P.S. Pat. p. 2, m. 19.
29. The guild of St. Mary, Boston.
Inspeximus to John Robynson, alderman of the above fraternity, of a patent of 16 Ric. II., licensing Sir Philip de Tilneye to found the guild, and seven other documents, chiefly mortmain licences in its favor, from Ric. II. to Edw. IV. Westm., 29 May.—Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 10, 11.

Footnotes

  • 1. Supplied from the draft.
  • 2. f. 150.
  • 3. The quality of the knives was to be tested before the Treasurer and Barons of the Exchequer. The mode of testing is described, and is very curious.
  • 4. Mistake for June?