Henry VIII: April 1524, 21-25

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1875.

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'Henry VIII: April 1524, 21-25', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530, ed. J S Brewer( London, 1875), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp105-115 [accessed 2 December 2024].

'Henry VIII: April 1524, 21-25', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530. Edited by J S Brewer( London, 1875), British History Online, accessed December 2, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp105-115.

"Henry VIII: April 1524, 21-25". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530. Ed. J S Brewer(London, 1875), , British History Online. Web. 2 December 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp105-115.

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April 1524

21 April.
R. O.
267. DACRE to ALBANY. (fn. 1)
Has received by Unicorn pursuivant his two writings, dated Edinburgh, 18th inst. Thinks it strange that Albany is always making new overtures, and alleges things in Dacre's writings which are not therein. He cannot deny that both he and Wolsey have expressly refused any conjunction of Scotch and French matters. The latter are of too great importance to liken the one to the other. The difference with Scotland comes entirely from France, and to make war on England for the pleasure of France has not hitherto been much to their profit. When they choose to leave France, which the well-advised would do if they had their own way, they shall have peace with England. Albany has been informed that after a peace concluded between the two realms, Wolsey would join with him in treating for a universal peace; but it was neither said nor thought that French affairs should be brought in by a mere comprehension with Scotland, and he must take this as a final and resolute answer on that point.
Has seen Unicorn's articles. A great part needs no answer. As to the rest, he has no power to take a surceance after the 1st of May, and if he could, he would not do it for so long a time, now in the commodious time of the year. Does not think he is so intent upon peace as he says, but that he merely wishes to gain time till the season is past; for Dacre advised him to request a surceance till Allhallowtide or St. Andrew's Day, which, if he really wanted peace, he would have preferred to a shorter time. There is no need to send these articles to Wolsey, as he has lately sent on articles to the same effect. As to Barbon's capture, thinks he should believe the words of princes rather than idle rumor. Considering that Wolsey has promised he shall not be hindered after his return to England, would be sorry for him to know that Albany would write or think thus.
As to the last clause, that unless some good way is found in a few days, he will provide so that matters will perhaps not be so easy to arrange, "I can say but little; for to say or disclose any boasting words I woll not, but one thing wol I say, which neither ye nor none other living can deny, that when all is done, and all the grudges risen that can or may be between these two realms, either Scotland must make pursuit for peace, and the same clear come of them, or else it will never be peace, like as it ever has been and aye will be." Whittingham, 21 April 15 Hen. VIII.
Copy, pp. 3. Endd.
Add. MS.
24,965, f. 215. B. M.
2. Another copy from Dacre's Letter-book.
Pp. 3. Headed: Copie of a lettre to the duke of Albany, sent with Unicorn pursevaunte.
21 April.
R. O.
268. MARGARET OF SAVOY to WOLSEY.
Knight has informed her of the arrival of a religious person, sent by the French king to England to treat for peace, and that neither the King nor Wolsey will listen to him without the Emperor's consent, for which she thanks him. Has informed Knight, and Rousel, as he passed here on his way, of the gathering of the French, as she supposes, to victual Therouenne, which is in great want, and of the siege of Zwol, in the territory of Utrecht, by Charles de Geldres. Sends the count of Bueren with most of the gens d'armes to rescue the latter place. Would like also to prevent the victualling of Therouenne, but she has not power sufficient for both. Has desired Knight by letter, and Russell by word of mouth, to ask the King to send promptly 4,000 pikemen for a certain time. Begs Wolsey to urge her request, as he knows the state of Therouenne, and the great advantage of having it in their hands. Antwerp, 21 April 1524, apres Pasques. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add. Endd.: "From my lady Margaret, 13th, 1524." And elsewhere by another hand: "19th Junii."
21 April.
Galba. B. VIII. 114*. B. M.
269. SIR ROBT. WINGFIELD to WOLSEY.
Was notified by letters from Knighte last week, that some of Arschot's people were to bring a spy last Monday to Bourbourch, in Flanders, where he asked me to receive him. Was there that day, but they did not come. Hearing of their arrival, rode thither again yesterday, though he was suffering from a disease in his leg, and received from two of d'Arschot's servants a letter directed to himself inclosed, and a lad of 18 years of age, born at Monmouth. Answered the letter, and signed a certificate of the spy's delivery. Has locked him in a chamber of the castle, visited by none but his constable. Awaits Wolsey's pleasure what is to be done with him. Calais Castle, 21 April 1524.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
23 April.
R. O.
270. REGNÉ DE BRETAYGNE (?) to HENRY VIII.
Has had no news to write till now, since leaving the King. Hears for certain that Bourbon, the Viceroy, and the marquis of Pescara, with the Emperor's army, have driven back the French as far as Novara, where they are at present shut up. 4,000 Grisons have been defeated near Bergamo. Versay, the largest town in Piedmont, is brought into the power of the Emperor. Hopes the French will be followed into their own country to repay them for visiting Italy. Writes more fully to Wolsey, as also does Henry's secretary, Mons. Pas (Pace), who has spoken with Bourbon. Trante, 23 April. Signed and sealed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
Captivité de François I. p. 53. (Doc. Inédits.) 271. LOUISE OF SAVOY.
Instructions to Jean Brinon, seigneur De Villenes, president of the parliament of Normandy, chancellor of Alençon, &c., sent by her to the Cardinal of York.
Is to say that Louise is grateful to Wolsey for the good reception given by him to Jehan Joacquin, her maître d'hôtel, and for the wish he has expressed for the peace of Christendom. She prays him to continue in this holy purpose until it is accomplished, and despatches Brinon to conclude the matter for which she sent Joacquin to him, after having acquainted the King her son with the communication made by Joacquin. Although Francis is quite prepared for war, he is willing to make peace in order to avoid shedding Christian blood. He has suffered many injuries, but is content to waive all demands which he might make on Henry, and to make peace according to the former treaties between them. As the Cardinal may demand payment of the arrears of the moneys due for Tournay, and on other accounts, he is to be persuaded by all possible means to regard them as acquitted. If this cannot be done, he is to be urged to agree that the arrears may be remitted for the present year, after which all that is due shall be paid in future at fixed terms, as before the war; the first term to be this time next year, or, if that will not do, May next.
Joacquin has written to Louise that Wolsey demanded prompt payment of the arrears, and that the rest should be paid by instalments of 100,000 cr. yearly, as long as Henry lived, and after his death the remainder to be paid at the accustomed terms; but Francis cannot possibly pay the arrears at present, owing to his late expenses. As to the 100,000 cr. demanded by Wolsey at once, he shall be told that this would abridge the terms heretofore agreed on, and augment the amount, for Henry might live so long that more would be paid than was due. Francis is willing to pay 20,000 cr. a year. With regard to Ardres and other places in Guienne, Wolsey is to be told that Francis would never consent [to surrender them]. In case Wolsey should say that he cannot negotiate with Louise, owing to his obligation made with the Emperor, and should request an instrument from Louise to assure himself as to what Francis would give his master, on receiving which he would send to the Emperor for power to make truce or peace, he is to be told that such an instrument shall be given him if he will undertake to abandon the Emperor should he refuse. Wolsey shall receive his pension of 12,000 livres. The arrears of queen Mary's dowry shall be paid at the rate of 10,000 livres a year. Henry will find a more faithful friend in Francis than in Charles, and Wolsey shall be conductor and governor of all enterprises.
Fr.
R. O. 272. FRANCIS I.
Promises to repay the 378,960 cr. at 38 sol. Tour. each, lent to him by Henry VIII., by yearly instalments of 6,316 cr. at Calais, commencing on June 7, 1524, on pain of apostolic censure.
Lat., pp. 9. Draft in an English hand.
R. O. 273. FRANCIS I.
Promises to pay to Henry VIII. 47,368 ½ crowns of gold, at 38 sol. Tour. each, on the 7th June 1585, at Calais, under apostolic censure.
A memorandum occurs upon the back, "Minuta cujusdam obligationis, &c., pro Antonio Cavalori."
Lat., pp. 5. A draft in an English hand.
R. O. 274. FRANCIS I.
Draft of an attestation by A., bishop of _, of the submission of Francis I. to ecclesiastical censures in the event of his failing to pay Henry VIII. in annual instalments, according to the conditions recited in the document, the sum of 378,960 g. c., in conformity with his acknowledgment made in the year 1520. The first payment is to commence on the 7th of June 1524, at the town of Calais, and so to proceed from year to year until the whole is paid.
Lat., pp. 2.
R. O. 2. Draft, to a similar effect, for the payment to the king of England and his successors, of 47,368 ½ g.c., in the town of Calais in 1585.
Lat., pp. 2.
24 April.
Add. M.S. 24,965, f. 234. B. M. Hearne's Otterbourne, II. 598.
275. WOLSEY to DACRE.
Received with his letters dated Whittingham, 17 April, others from the queen of Scots to the King, himself and my lord Admiral, as well as letters from Albany and copies of the writings between him and Dacre. Has read them to the King. Perceives more and more that Albany wishes to delay the time for his own advantage, and to increase his estimation with the Scots by the intelligence which he seeks to have with Wolsey. This is evident from his daily letters to both of them, which are not direct answers to theirs, but full of untrue surmises, to make the Scots believe that the desire for peace or abstinence proceeds from this side. Sends a copy of his last letter, which plainly shows this; for he says that Wolsey has accepted what he proposed when he sent his apothecary and pursuivant. whereas they never came here, but remained with Dacre, and were sent home on receipt of Wolsey's letters, so that Wolsey never saw or heard their instructions. Wrote nothing like acceptance to Albany, but showed him plainly his dilatory demeanor, and sent him a copy of the words he wrote to his agents in France, telling him he neither could nor should abuse him. It was rather a total rejection than an acceptance. He makes no mention of all this, and probably is working craftily by one way with Wolsey, and colorably by another way with the Scots, to increase his credit there. On account of this dissimulation, will not meddle further with him, and he shall not deceive the Scots by showing Wolsey's sign and seal, for he doubtless inserts by forgery what is not in the letters. The King, therefore, desires Dacre not to listen further to him, but to inform him plainly of the above, keeping as near to Wolsey's words as he can, that he may know that his "feigned drifts" are discovered, and that he has lost credit with the King, whereas, if he had used himself honorably, Wolsey would have concurred with him to produce some good effect, which might have increased his reputation, which is now greatly hindered and blemished. He shall say further that, though Albany may think he has caused delay which will benefit the French king, the Scots and himself, the King intends to put his affairs into such order that he shall be disappointed. Dacre must also let the Queen and the Lords know how he has acted, as Wolsey sees by her letters that he boasts of the great intelligence he has with him. Even the French king has not such great confidence in him as he boasts. By informing them of this, his reputation and authority in Scotland may be diminished.
In his letters to Albany he shall also say that, as Wolsey has always said, if ambassadors are sent from the King and Estates without mentioning Albany or introducing French matters, the safe-conducts will still hold good, and shall be prorogued if necessary. The ambassadors shall be favorably heard, and a cessation of arms by land observed till they return. Other way than this the King never intended to take; and he and the Council think Dacre does not act to his honor in answering the Duke in that he seems to propose an abstinence till St. Andrew's Day, without the King's commandment; for he may be sure the King is not so minded, but intends to pursue his enterprises to the uttermost, and compel them to speak in another way. Dacre must annoy them by excourses and warden rodes, for by so doing he will do more to further peace than by hearkening to feigned overtures. Even if they were well meant, it is not honorable or convenient that peace should come that way. In the same paper with the Queen's letter to Surrey was the copy of an instrument between herself and Albany, but in her letters there was no mention of it; and she said she had not seen him since his arrival, that she is with her son, who will do nothing but with her advice, and she makes other demonstrations against the Duke. The instrument, of which he sends a copy, was folded in her letter without direction, and the seals seem to have been broken and closed again. Thinks there is some craft used by Albany or another, and wishes Dacre to find out whether such a convention has really been passed, and how the copy was put into the paper.
He can use the Queen's servant remaining with him to carry his letters to her and the Lords, and must say, in answer to her requests that she may mediate for peace, that when Albany sees that his "tromperies are spyed" he will cause her to make overtures, not for any good purpose, but to abuse her, as he does others. The King thinks that her request for a safe-conduct for a ship to pass to France concerning the promotion of a certain spiritual man is made at Albany's desire, that he may be able to convey his writings to and fro; and he hopes that she will take his refusal in good part.
If Sir Wm. Bulmer and Sir Rauf Evers have gentlemen allotted as captains, with petty captains under them, it is reasonable that they should be paid for them, as is customary in all the King's crews; but if they have only petty captains, it is not reasonable that they should have the captains' wages for their own use. Westm., 24 April. Signed.
Pp. 8. Add.: To, &c. my lord Dacres, warden of the Marches for anempst Scotlande.
25 April.
Vit. B. VI. 25. B. M.
276. CLERK and HANNIBAL to [WOLSEY].
On the 11th received his letters of 26 March. Went to the Pope, and gave him the King's and Wolsey's letters, and declared the contents of the letters to themselves. The Pope was highly contented with the King's readiness to give up his own interest for the sake of the common cause, and wishes other people would do the same; for, if so, he doubts not that he should soon bring matters to an end. He is glad that his delay in declaring against France, and his plain dealing in confessing his poverty, is taken so well by the King. He did not say much; but they see that he is very glad, and that he very much feared that they would insist on the declaration. He promises that no French practices or hope of profit shall alienate his mind from the King and Emperor. He would rather be driven out of Rome than forsake the King. He says he knows the subtilty of the French well enough, and that he would not meddle with them if he did not hope to procure what will benefit all the confederates. He told them that cards. Lorayn and Bourbon had departed into France, and that card. Aux, who left three months ago, was of Bourbon's party. Now they were gone he should have more rest. As to the army of Milan, he had greatly pained and strained himself to maintain the Emperor's army there, and had exhorted other powers to do the same. He would continue to do so, at the King's instance; but it must needs be privily, for the maintenance of his credit with France. He complained of the imperialists for passing over occasions when they might have fought to advantage. He said that means had been found to maintain the Emperor's army for a season; but that, unless the French king were molested at home, he could easily reinforce his army, and wear out the imperialists. Answered that the Emperor would be as able to maintain his army as the French king. His Holiness seems in very good comfort, and in a better opinion concerning Italian affairs than ever since he was Pope. Either the armies will fight, in which case, God being indifferent, they will have the victory or give their enemies a bloody one, or else the Emperor's army will be maintained. If the French king does not reinforce his army, less will suffice; for he has lost 600 or 700 men-at-arms and 5,000 or 6,000 pietons; and at a recent skirmish more than 130 men-at-arms and many light horse of the chief gentlemen in the camp were taken, so that their ransoms will amount to 100,000 ducats.
The camp is sore troubled with plague. The great general of Normandy has lately died of it. They are so straitly kept in on every side that they are half desperate. As to the marriage between the duke of Milan and the French king's daughter, and the other overtures in Wolsey's letter, that he might either withdraw his army out of Italy or not reinforce it, the Pope says that everything has been said long ago, and not regarded. He has himself declared it to the French ambassador, and has now sent the archbishop of Capua to try and find some means of setting the world at rest. He has charged him to ask only, in the Pope's name, that some one may be sent with honorable offers to the King or Wolsey. He hourly expects an answer, and thinks that the Archbishop will be in England at the end of this month. Told him they had certain charters and monuments under the seals of the kings of France and Scotland and their nobles, which the King wished them to show him, that he might see his title to both crowns, which titles, however, he will be contented to give up at the Pope's request, when peace is treated for, if he will assist him in obtaining other demands, which he cannot honorably give up. His Holiness said he would be very glad, and see them at a convenient time. Told him the King's pleasure about Bourbon, and have written to the Duke that, when the King wrote to desire him to come to England, he knew only that he was going to Spain, and thought his presence would have done more good in Flanders than there, especially as the Emperor was there himself, and therefore Henry wished him to come first to England to consult about the common affairs, and also for his own good; but now, knowing what authority the Duke has from the Emperor in Italy, he thinks it better for him to stay there, especially if the Emperor intends, after a victory here, which, God willing, shall be shortly, to advance into France by Provence, of which expedition no one could be a more suitable leader. Have, therefore, written to him to follow out this enterprise until he has further instructions, and have caused the Pope to write the same, "so that we trust ye be rydd of a clogg." Will do all they can for the French pension and the peace and the other matters in cipher in Wolsey's letter. Rome, 16 April.
P.S.—The Pope tells them that he has heard from the archbishop of Capua that he arrived on Easter Eve, stayed 10 days, and on the 11th went towards the Emperor into Spain. He spoke about a truce for one year, with an article for retaining present possessions, and others for the ordering of Milan, and for the Pope, Cardinals, Florentines and other powers to be conservators of the truce, and declare themselves against the violator. He will not "be aknowen" that the [French] king has agreed to these conditions, but says he has "not greatly said nay" to none of them. When the Archbishop has been with the Emperor he will come to England; and the Pope thinks he will be there at the end of the month, or early next month. Asked for a copy of these articles to send to Wolsey; but he said he would send them himself, and he did not wish to have them published until the matter was near coming to some good point. Does not think any mention is made of the King; but the Pope said that was not necessary till he had consented to them, and he might alter them as he chose.
The Archbishop advised Francis to send some one to England, which he did not mislike, but the Archbishop did not say whether he promised to do so or not. The Pope hears from Spain that, after the taking of Fontarabia, the Emperor disbanded his army, and went from the frontiers to visit Castile. The Pope thinks too badly of the Emperor's affairs, and thinks that if the army had continued the French king would have been easier to treat with. The Emperor's agents think too lightly of their own affairs, and excuse the dissolution of the army, saying they had been so beaten by the winter war that they could no longer continue, and that the army in Italy will be maintained, and, after a victory, will invade France, to which they want the King to contribute, "but we have put them [in] desperation thereof." The French army in Italy is decayed, and will probably not return to France, unless they have succors soon. They have retreated from Vegeva to Novara, and in their hurry lost much of their baggage and artillery. They are in evil case for lack of money and victuals. They sent some of their captains to the Grisons, and they have returned with 4,000 foot... the territory of Bergamo, where a good number of horse and foot were sent to meet them by the Venetians; and the Grisons dared come no farther, and returned, taking their conductors as prisoners, on account of their slack payments. The diet assembled by the Swiss about the succor demanded of them by the French is dissolved with great dissension, but four of the cantons, which are pensioned by the French, will do all they can without consent of the rest. It is said 8,000 foot have already set out without money, on credence; but wise men think that if each of these men had one of his eyes at Milan he would not fetch it without being well paid, of which there is no appearance yet. Rome, 22 April.
P.S.—The courier should have left six days ago, but was detained, better news from the camp at Milan being daily expected, as it was thought the French could not have continued as long as they have. 400 spears have come to aid the French, who are besieged, and are now at Susa, and 6,000 or 7,000 Swiss at Ivrea. The imperialists think they can prevent their joining the army; but even if they do, they will not be strong enough to cope with them. A letter has also come from Bourbon, who takes the King's advice very well. He writes to the King and Wolsey. Have caused the Pope to urge the French ambassadors about sending to England, which he has done; but they have no answer from Francis, as he sends letters first to the Admiral, who is besieged in Novara, and cannot forward them. Rome, 25 April. Signed.
Pp. 13, mutilated.
25 April.
R. O.
277. LAURENCE STARKEY to LORD DARCY.
Has been appointed sheriff (fn. 2) of Lancashire, through the influence of Sir Ric. Wingfield, chancellor of the duchy and county palatine. Trusts, therefore, that his young Lord (fn. 3) will have the office when of age. The Chancellor has written to him to come to the court, and is displeased that he did not come immediately after my Lord's death. Sir William Parre was promised the office by the lord Privy Seal, and others of the shire tried to obtain it. Mr. Chancellor has sent him certain privy tokens, and until Starkey comes he will not pass anything that was not granted when he received Starkey's letter. Hears from him of the trouble Darcy has taken for his young Lord. Money must help this matter, or else all will be nought. Desires credence for the bearer, Darcy's old servant, Robt. Parker. Asks that Ric. Banke may meet him at Slaydeburn to tell him Darcy's wishes. Lancaster, St. Mark's Day in the evening.
Hol., p. 1. Add.
25 April.
Add. M.S. 24,965, f. 216b. B. M.
278. DACRE to WOLSEY.
Has made a warden's rode in Scotland. Himself, accompanied by Sir Wm. Eure, lord Ogle, Sir Wm. Heron, Sir Rauf Fenwick, Sir Nic. Ridlee, Sir John Delavale and others, with 1,200 men, 500 being of the garrison, met at Riddlees-Willees, on the Middle Marches, and destroyed Newbigging, Dolphinston, Fawley, Oldhall, Swynside, Swynsidlawes, Oversykes, Nedersikes, Blodylawes, Oxnam town, Oxnam Crag, Ranoldstonrig and Oxnam Manes. Sir Wm. Bulmer, lieutenant of the East Marches, with Sir Wm. Lisle, the garrisons of Berwick, Norham and Elandshires, the tenants of the earl of Northumberland and others, to the number of 1,200, met at Howtell Swyre, and burnt the Wereshill, David Kirkton's peel, Overcralyn and the Manes, with other small villages, and met Dacre's company at Oxnam, whence they all rode by the gates of Cessford, "the bernikyn thereof being bigged again," and so through the East March into England, Dacre entering at the Scawforde, and Bulmer going down the Border to Norham. Sir Christopher Dacre, with 1,200 men of the West Border, went 14 miles within Scotland, and burnt Roull, Langholme and other towns along the Water of Roull, and got some horses and cattle. The knights and gentlemen who came in person, though they had but few attending on them, deserve thanks or rewards; but those who came not when warned, as Sir John heron of Chipches, Wm. Swynburne of Captheton, Sir Wm. Ellerker, who has the rule of the King's tenants of Dunstanburghe, and of the tenants of Withrington, who is the King's ward, Sir Edw. and Sir Roger Grey, the Bastard Heron and Sir Thos. Ilderton, who has the rule of the King's tenants of Bamburghshire under lord Darcy, deserve punishment, unless they have lawful excuses. Thinks the King should send letters to commit them to ward at Newcastle, Morpeth or Alnwick for eight or 10 days, as an example. Of the garrison of 1,200 men, can have no more than 966 for a rode, as the rest are footmen and gunners. This is a convenient number for defence, but not for any great invasion; for though the Treasurer cast down the towers and fortresses last year, the "bernikyns" have been rebuilded, and cannot be won without ordnance. If, therefore, the King wishes sharp and continual war to be made, cart horses and other necessaries for ordnance must be provided, and an additional number of men. The Treasurer knows what will serve and what can be done. When he orders his son or brother to make a journey on the West Marches, he is not so well obeyed as in past years. The tenants of the earl of Northumberland, lord Clifford and the lord Marquis, who are two thirds of the strength of the West Border, will not rise because last year they had wages, and many of them lay in garrison. In times past all the inhabitants of the West Marches were at the Warden's commandment to serve the King; but now it is not so, and the King must either place garrisons, or else send writs to the sheriffs of Westmoreland and Cumberland and to the bailiffs of Cockermouth and Cowpland, commanding them to attend upon the Warden, according to Dacre's patent of 2 July 1 Hen. VIII., of which he sends a copy, and wishes it renewed.
Asks what repairs are to be made at Wark Castle, for it is "sore bett." Sends letters and instructions given him by a pursuivant from Albany on his return from the rode, before he came to his lodging at Whittingham. Sends also a copy of his answer. "Crossed pence" have not been taken for years in the North; and as most of the money he has sent is in pence, he must send commissioners to make proclamation that the subjects be compelled to take them. Morpeth, St. Mark's Day, 25 April 16 Hen. VIII.
Pp. 4. Headed: Copie, &c.
25 April.
R.O.
279. DACRE to WOLSEY.
Has received his two letters, the first dated Greenwich, 31 March, and the other Westm., 6 April, with instructions for the conservation of the Borders, punishment of malefactors, annoyance of the enemy, and for apprehending eight persons named in a schedule. Will do his best, with the assistance of Sir Wm. Heron and Sir Rauff Fenwick, to attach six of them in Tyndale,—as Wolsey will admit of no excuse, notwithstanding that he lives at a distance from Tyndale, and has no property near it,--unless they come to common trysts for good order and reformation, in which case they must be allowed to depart free, even though they had slain Dacre's brother. As for the two in the West March, whose names are Herbert Newton and David Crawe, has already put them in custody in Carlisle Castle. If Wolsey think fit, will deliver them to the sheriff of Cumberland, to be by him handed on to the sheriff of Westmoreland, and so on till they come to Wolsey. Wishes not to have the conveyance of them, as he cannot spare a servant.
Is sorry Wolsey listens to every surmise against him, and that the King is displeased at the Scots being allowed to commit depredations, which make Albany more obstinate. There are no such attemptats committed in any of the Marches as are alleged, though it is impossible to prevent them stealing by night. All that occurred was the rode made by the earl of Lennox when he burnt a part of Forde, which could be repaired for a small outlay. Since then 100 light persons of Scotland set fire to five or six houses of Wooler, which was under Sir Philip Dacre's charge, when the inhabitants rose, and took a dozen prisoners, with many geldings. Assures Wolsey that for one pennyworth of hurt done by them the Scots received 20 pennyworth before they returned that night, although it would not have been wonderful if they had escaped with impunity, Wooler being the outermost town of the realm. Has, moreover, done exploits upon the Middle Marches which have inflicted 20 times the damage done by the Scotch, although he had not one man in wages at the King's charge before his coming to Whittingham, when he caused 100 horse to wait upon him of the 1,200 sent by Wolsey. Thinks such exploits could not have emboldened Albany.
Thanks Wolsey for informing him of the King's opinion that the Borders are not now in the state they were at my lord Treasurer's departure, and must be restored to order before the King discharges Dacre, according to his petition, at the end of May. Assures him that the two small exploits above mentioned are all that has been done by the Scots since my lord Treasurer's departure, as is well known here. The Marches are in better order now than they were then. More robberies were committed during Surrey's time than since Dacre's entry. No redress was made for the insurrection in Tyndale against Sir Rauff Fenwick before my lord Treasurer left, except that his Lordship had communication with some of the Tyndale men, and signed articles of abstinence with them. Begs that a commission be sent to inquire the truth of this. Has now been the King's officer 13 years on the East and Middle Marches, without a penny wages for himself, as appears by indenture under the privy seal. Has, nevertheless, been as diligent as possible to serve the King. Morpeth, St. Mark's day. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace. Endd.
Add. MS.
24,965, f. 219. B. M.
2. Copy of the above by Dacre's clerk, dated Morpeth, St. Mark's Day, 25 April 16 Hen. VIII.
Pp. 4. Headed: Copie of a lettre to my lord Legate's grace, cardinall of York, aunswer to his lettres hereunto annexed.
Add. MS.
24,965,f.218b. B.M.
280. SCOTLAND.
"The contents of this pacquet sent up by post to my lord Legate's grace."
Two letters from the Duke, dated 18 April, and instructions brought by Unicorn; the copy of Dacre's answer, dated Whittingham, 21 April; a letter to Wolsey about the Warden rood, dated Morpeth, St. Mark's Day; another letter from Dacre to Wolsey, in answer to his letter (fn. 4) next following, sewed in this book. The copy of my lord's power of the wardenry of the West Marches should have been sent up and was forgot.
P. 1.
25 April.
R. O.
281. VICTUALLING of the ARMY.
Accounts of Thos. Hatcliff, appointed by the Council to provide victuals for the army in the North under Thos., now duke of Norfolk, then earl of Surrey, and for the army in France under Chas. duke of Suffolk, 15 Hen. VIII., compiled by Thos. Tamworth, auditor, and examined by Sir John Daunce and John Hales, second baron of the Exchequer and general surveyor of the King's lands.
Received, from Sir John Daunce, as part of 7,000l. shared by Hatcliff, Wm. Pawne, deceased, and Edw. Weldon, 1,650l.; by sale of victuals, because the wars at that time intended proceeded not: wheat at 4s. 8d. a qr., malt at 3s. a qr., flitches of bacon, 20d. each, cheese, 9s. 6d. the wey, hops, 9s. 6d. the 100, 476 doz. and 3 bread, 23l. 13s. 1d., 38 tuns 3 pps. beer sold at Newcastle and Alnwick, 50l. 3s. 9d., 1,172l. 11s. 3d. Total, 2,822l. 11s. 3d.
Spent, for wheat, 1,158 qrs. 4 bush., at 4s. 8d.; 3 pieces of boulting cloth, 16s. 4d.; 42 yards hair cloth, 12s.; 40 ells canvas "to make a pastre," 16s. 8d.; 38 sacks at 14d.; carriage of empty vessels from Hull to Skytter mills, 6s. 8d.; mats for the boulting houses, 7s. 1d.; 3 gallons ink to mark the barrels of flour, 4s. 4d.; 4 locks and keys, 2s. 8d.; 12 shovels and 12 trees, 5s. 6d.; 400 lb. lead, 26s. 8d.; an iron beam and scales, 8s.; similar expenses at Grimsby mills; wages of bakers, 34l. 17s. 4d.; wages of 2 men keeping the garners at Grimsby and Sketter mills, 118 days at 6d.; wages of Wm. Atclyff the elder, 2s. a day. The wheat was made into 116 last. 1 bush. flour, containing 1,393 bush., at the cost of 5s. 9 ¾d. a barrel.—404l. 14s. 8 ¾d.
1,463 qr. wheat at 4s. 10d., for Pawne at Berwick and Briswood at Calais; malt, 4,130 qr. 6 bush. at 3s. 2d. and 52 bolls at 2s.; hops, 10,042 lb. at 10s. the 100; cheese, 200 wey at 9s., 10s., and 11s. the wey; bacon, 1,000 flitches at 22d.; for freight from Barro, Barton, Sketter mills, and Grimsby to Berwick, Calais, and Sandwich: to Henry Browne, master of the Mare Galant of Brykesey, John Hawe of the Petur of Grymsby, John Pate of the Barbara of Grymsby, Robt. Demilton of the Mare Grymsby, Robt. Coke of the Mawdeleyn of Grymsby, Robt. Page of the Leonard of Grimsby, and John Johnson of the Erasmus of Grimsby, and to 20 carters taking bread and beer from Holyeland to Belford, Bermewood, and Crokeham, where it was sold, 20d. a day,—27l.; to Chr. Coo, captain of the Mare Galyon of Lynne, for one month, from Nov. 11, wages for himself 18d. a day, 44 soldiers, mariners, and gunners, 5s. a month, 10 dedshares, 5s. a month, rewards to gunners, 10s. a month, a surgeon, 10s. a month, victualling, 5s. 4d. a man, conduct of the men from Dunkirk to Dover, 2s. Each—36l. 2s.; to Chr. Thwaytes, capt. of the Mathew of Newcastle, 100 tons, wages from 24 Nov. 15 Hen. VIII. to 14 April, for himself, 18d. a day, surgeon, 10s. a month, 55 to 69 soldiers, mariners, and gunners, 5s. a month, 8 to 12 dedshares, 5s. a month, rewards to gunners 14s. 2d. a month, tonnage, 12d. a ton a month, victuals, 5s. 4d. each a month—189l. 0s. 6d.; to Edw. Baxster, merchant of Newcastle, owner of the Mathew, 100 tons, and of the Jesus, 160 tons, for portage of the former from 14 April 14 Hen. VIII. to 28 Oct., and the latter from 18 March 14 Hen. VIII. to 2 Sept., 12d. a ton a month, 83l.; to Thos. Magnus, archdeacon of the East Riding, treasurer of the wars in the north, 10 Nov. 15 Hen. VIII., 333l. 6s. 8d.; to Geo. Lawson, to be conveyed to Newcastle, 17 Nov. 15 Hen. VIII., 333l. 6s. 8d.; to Sir H. Wyat, money remaining from the aforesaid provisions, 105l. 0s. 10d.; Hatcliff's expenses in the north, 1 Jan. 14 Hen. VIII. to 20 Feb., and 1 Nov. 15 Hen. VIII. to 25 April, 3s. 4d. a day, and two servants at 6d.; wages of 6 men with him, while in Scotland with Norfolk, 1 Sept. 15 Hen. VIII. to 14 Nov., 6d. a day; expenses of 3 men sent from Newcastle to Hull to convey 500 mks., 15s.; 5 pair of bogetts to carry money from London to the north, 10s.; hire of 6 horses for 12 days to carry it from London to Hull, 48s.—63l. 3s. 8d.
Total 2,829l. 18s. 0 ¼d., exceeding the sum received by 7l. 6s. 9 ¼d. Signed by Sir J. Daunce.
A roll. Mutilated.
R. O. 2. Another copy, also mutilated, giving different periods for the wages in the last item.
25 April. 282. For the MONASTERY OF ST. MARY OSENEY, Oxford.
Congé d'élire to the prior and convent, vice Wm. Barton, last abbot, resigned. Westm., 25 April.
Pat. 16 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 5.
25 April. 283. For the MONASTERY OF ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST, KARMARDUNE (Carmarthen).
Congé d'élire to the sub-prior and convent, vice Thos. Morice. Westm., 25 April.
Pat. 16 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 33.

Footnotes

  • 1. Printed by mistake as of the year 1516 in Vol. II., No. 1797.
  • 2. Starkey's name does not occur in the list of sheriffs given in Baines' History of Lancashire.
  • 3. Monteagle.
  • 4. This letter is missing.