Henry VIII: August 1526, 11-30

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: August 1526, 11-30', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530, (London, 1875) pp. 1081-1093. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp1081-1093 [accessed 26 March 2024]

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August 1526

21 Aug.
Calig. B. VIII.
160.
B. M.
St. P. IV. 452.
2414. QUEEN MARGARET to WOLSEY.
Notwithstanding the King her son has now been of age for some time, and is empowered by Parliament to exercise authority himself, he is kept in thraldom by Angus, who has made him write many letters to the Pope and to the King, especially against my lord of St. Andrew's, pretending that he has conspired against James's authority. The Archbishop is, therefore, unwilling to meddle in public matters without letters of request from the King and Wolsey. The bearer, Peter Howstoun, will explain how her son is kept in fear of Angus, whose requests he dare not deny for his life. James has written of it to his mother, my lord of St. Andrew's, and Lennox. Wishes Henry would write letters to these and other lords upon the subject, and also to the Pope in behalf of Margaret's supplications. Dunfermling, 21 Aug. Signed.
Add.
21 Aug.
Calig. B. VIII.
159 b.
B. M.
2415. QUEEN MARGARET to HENRY VIII.
To the same effect, and nearly in the same words. (fn. 1) Dunfermling, 21 Aug. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.
21 Aug.
Calig. D. IX.
237.
B. M.
2416. CLERK to [WOLSEY].
Arrived at Amboise on Sunday the 12th. Was met on the road by three or four bishops, and others, who excused themselves for not having a greater company, as the King was gone on a pilgrimage to Tours, and with him the nobility, except such as were left to wait upon my Lady. Proposed to visit Madame next day, but was told by the bp. of Chartres that she was unwell, and the King would be home the next night. Was with the King on the 14th. Presented their letters, which he took with him apart to the window and read; and as there were many in presence, he had them into another chamber. He then expressed his regret at Dr. Tayler's proposed departure, saying, however, that he hoped that I would employ myself, as he had done, in advancing their common affairs. He then said that he was greatly bound to the King's highness, and "also all his posterity to be ever his perpetual slaves. And in this matter, I assure your Grace, he had very earnest and long language." Among other words he made use of this similitude, "like as when a man will [take] any great leap or skip, the more he doth go back[wards] and recoil himself, the further is his leap; so the stroke of love and amity, which by these wars hath ... now recoiled and put backward by the dissolu[tion] of them, shall be doubtless the further extended." He rejoiced that the reciprocal obligation had passed England, for the Emperor's ambassador would have tempted him with new offers, but he was so bound to his "cousin, the king of England, that without him he might do nothing." He said he had granted for the war in Italy 20,000 ducats a month, besides the 40,000l., with other advantages, and that he did not think much of the coming of Bourbon into Italy, or the taking of the castle of Milan.
He was so long in talking thus, "that, then being Our Lady Even, evensong time drew on, insomuch that my Lady sent him word thereof, and that she would gladly speak with us before evensong. Thus leaving me no space to play my part, his Majesty, without any more words, willed us to repair unto my Lady." This we did, delivering our letters. She asked about our conversation with the King. Conversed much upon the amity of the two Princes. "She asked me how I thought they should please the King's highness;" and I replied that I had come there to advance the League, and exhort them to do what was most beneficial to their own interests; that, remembering the union of the two kingdoms, and the manifold occasions of its interruption, she should, by her great wisdom and prudence, prevent its dissolution. I said that your Grace offered your services to assist in this; and, "whatsoever hath been written out of England from her orators or elsewhere, [I] was not come hither to renew old sores, or to p[ut] in question any title or any other thing displa[cent] unto her hearing." Certain ma[tters], of further conjunction between the realms, had been spoken of in England; but I was commissioned to propose nothing but what was agreeable to herself. She replied that she had been most willingly ruled by Wolsey's advice in these matters, and whatever I had to say to her I should speak it openly, and she would do the best to further it. "Thus, with general words, not touching none other specialties, I made no more business with her at th[at] time." She said we should have time hereafter to speak more at leisure.
"I cannot forget to advertise your Grace how, at th[is] my first audience, there was in my Lady's cham[ber], and fast by her side at my coming in, two goodly [and] well favoured children, and, as I understood aft[erwards], they were the King's children,—the King's daughter and the [King's] younger son. And after that I had delivered the K[ing's] highness' and your Grace's letters unto my Lady, a[nd I] standing somewhat aloof whiles that she read th[em], the King's son, unknown unto me at that time what he was, came and said, 'Soies les tresbien venu, Mons. l'ambassadeur. Me voulez vous mesner veoi[r] mes freres?' I having my mind totally occupied with such matters as I did intend to speak unto my Lady, had little mind or fantasie to harky[n] to the child's words, thinking that they had been some children brought in for the ladies' daliance and pastime, and gave him no answer as the[n]. He still pressed me, replying the same words again. I, willing to avoid him, answered a[nd] said 'Ouy, mon amy; ouy, ouy.' He, hearing that, drew nearer me, and, taking me by the hand, said with a louder voice, 'Voyr, Monsr. l'Ambassadeur, m[e] voulez vous mesner veoir mes freres?' With that my Lady and other lords there about began to laugh; whereby, and calling to my remembrance what the child had said unto me, I then perceived that they were the King's children; which known, with due reverence I kneeled down and kissed both their hands, making recommendatio[ns] in the King's highness's name. My Lady then said that he had studied for that lesson half an hour before. I said unto my Lady that it should be great pity that he should come there as his brethren be, and that it should be better that his brethren were brought there as he is."
On the 17th kept his chamber, having caught cold by riding in the rain, when Tayler went to the council. It appears by letters of the 10th from the Pope's captain, that Langes had been in Switzerland, but as he brought no money the diet there passed an unfavorable resolution. He says he hears nothing of the King's army by sea, whereby their enemies get great advantage. The Grisons are on good terms with the Emperor. All the blame of this is attributed to the French king, who does not keep his promises. The only remedy will be to send an army against Flanders or Burgundy. Cremona is not yet taken. Amboise, 21 Aug. Signed.
Mutilated, pp. 14.
21 Aug.
Vit. B. VIII.
114.
B. M.
2417. GHINUCCI to [WOLSEY].
"Ill. ac R., &c. Post ulti[mas] datas xvij. hujus mensis nil de novo accidit, nisi quod capitaneus ille cui data est cura recuperandæ Cremonæ conatus est eam ingredi c[um] suis militibus, et tandem id ei non successit, quampluribus ex illis militibus et [suis] et de Cæsareis, licet in minori numero, mortuis, quod potissime causatum a ... a paucitate numeri militum confœderatorum, unde conclusum est quod aug[mentetur] numerus ad 2500 plus, et de novo tentetur recuperatio, et ut scribu[nt] inde habent multum spei quod res bene succedat. Re ca expedita ... sive bene sive male succedat, ibit illa pars exercitus Januam versus, et eodem tempore triremium Pontificis Venetorum et Regis Gallorum præsentabit se civitati, sperantque medio præsertim quamplurium civium cum confœderatis sentientium ipsam civitatem in parte[m] confœderatorum trahere. Pontifex videns non posse ex Gallia subsidium aliquod, quod momenti sit, pro negocio regni Neapolitani expectare, tr[actat] concordiam cum Cæsareis et cum peditibus quæ hoc continet ut [civi]tatem Bononiæ citra nihil innovent; hinc inde tamen ea non est ... ut Pontifex dicit quin possit, si velit Rex Gallorum subsidia ministrare, dicti regni recuperandi provincia suscipi, prout Rege Gallorum volente susciperetur.
"Quoad ea quæ scribit D. v. R. per ultimas literas circa congratulationem felicis principii rerum Italiæ, Pontifex dixit, 'Utinam talis fuisset successus!' facto signo non parvæ tristi[ti]æ subjunxit, 'Utinam non sit longe diversus finis!' Placere autem mirum in modum ei visum est quod D. v. R. scribit, viz. quod Rex Gallus non curabit de filiis ut fidem servet confœderatis, asserens quod si hoc erit ab opera Ser. Regis nostri et D. v. R. potissime proveniet. Alia non occurrunt," &c. Rome, 21 Aug. 1526.
The duke of Suessa, the Emperor's ambassador, died three days ago. He fell ill in a town of the Colonnas', and was brought here, and died in three days. He wished his body to be buried beside his wife at Suessa. Signed.
Mutilated, pp. 2. The cipher undeciphered.
21 Aug.
Vit. B. VIII.
113.
B. M.
2418. GHINUCCI to [WOLSEY].
After his last of the 17th, was with his Holiness about the college. He has granted the bulls at Wolsey's desire. Nothing has been changed in the first. In the second the Pope thinks "pro Sedis Apostolica ..." there should be added "de consensu fundatorum," and he thinks that in the former bull those words were ap[pended]. He believes the bull will satisfy Wolsey. In the third, some alteration was made in the words, not in the meaning, to suit the style of the court. The Pope wishes the Holy See had other as zealous members as the King and Wolsey. He wished besides to see the list that was transmitted of students in the foresaid college, and said that he saw all arrangements made for the college as if he had beheld them with his own eyes; and he praised every thing as most admirable. He wished to understand the difference of the canons in the description of the first and second order;—whether they were to be perpetual or not. And he thought it was better they should not be so, because if the students did not have a perpetual stipend they would be compelled to study to gain a livelihood. He said the same of the dean and the subdean, and thought it would be better that they should be elected by the students, with a view to emulation. He wanted to know also the difference between public and private professors. Moreover, as to the lectures, his Holiness does not see, "quod in scientia sophistriæ ... de tempore legatur;" and although he feels sure that Wolsey will not omit Greek literature, there is no mention of it in the account, and he requests that there may be at least two Greek lectures in the college. Rome, 21 Aug. 1526. Signed.
Lat., pp. 2, mutilated.
21 Aug.
R. O.
2419. GIO. MATT. GIBERTO, BISHOP OF VERONA, to WOLSEY.
Has procured from the Pope, for the college at Oxford, all that he by his letters and Ghinucci and Casale asked him to procure; but the Pope would have readily granted it without his recommendation, from his affection to Wolsey and desire for the advancement of learning. Rome, 21 Aug. 1526. Signed.
Lat., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
21 Aug.
R. O.
St. P. I. 172.
2420. KNIGHT to WOLSEY.
Was so vexed with sickness that he could not reach Winchester before Monday. Sent his chaplain to lord Sandys with the packet of letters received from Wolsey at Guildford, advertising him of the coming of the ambassadors. On the said Monday the King rode a-hunting. The King delivered him his signet, with many good words. After his first mass, went to him within his traverse, stating that I had information from you for him since your compendious news of the 23rd, 24th, and 25th ult., if he desired further information. He said he marvelled at the variableness of the Pope, and their desire that he should enter the league, contrary to their former opinion that he should first make certain capitulations for his indemnity. On my saying that it were desirable that his progress should be nearer to your Grace, he replied he did not see great cause why he should alter his progress, for he intended to see my lady Princess, and shortly after to approach within 30 miles of you. I mentioned that you wished that Sampson, Wolman, and I should be coadjutors of such deaneries as Pace holds. The King did gladly accept your honorable and fatherly intention in that purpose. He says that Sir Thomas More has the copy of Luther's letter. I remain here till I have recovered. Winchester, Tuesday, 21 Aug.
Hol. Add.
21 Aug.
Vit. B. VIII.
112.
B. M.
2421. JU. DATI to [WOLSEY].
Has heard from Peter Vannes that on a late occasion, when Vannes had spoken to Wolsey, expressing the writer's anxiety about public affairs, "ac simul ostendisset ... periclitaretur fore ut mea apud S.D.N. gratia et qualiscunque est auctoritas ... retur," that Wolsey had replied he had nothing to fear so long as he was under his own and the King's protection, and had sent him a present (deinde mu[mus?] addidisse). Wolsey had further stated that the King had never failed to assist the Pope, nor would he at this time. Can make no return for their kindness. Has heard that his friend Sanga has been sent to England. Rome, 21 Aug. 1526. Signed.
Lat., mutilated, pp. 2.
Aug.
[Cal. E. I. II.]
I. 113.
B. M.
2422. [FRANCIS I.] to DE VAULX.
Has received his letters and the reciprocal [obli]gation, which he returns ratified to be presented to the Cardinal. He must obtain that of the king of England. The power is returned, altered, though there was no need for it.
Sends also the ratification for the dowry (dou ...) of queen Mary. Will satisfy the King in that as in all other things. Has written what he is doing for the League. Has spent 20,000 cr. more than the obligation, which is for 40,000, with a third of the payment of the 14 .. men with the marquis of Saluzzo, and four galleys more than the 12 he promised. To prevent Milan being attacked by sea from Spain, is content to prepare [a fleet]. Hopes the other confederates will act similarly. The Pope and Venetians marvel at Saluzzo's slow passage, but he has lost no time. It would have been better if the Pope had agreed with the duke of Ferrara, and made him [captain] general of the League. The D[uke] has sent to the Pope to ask for that charge, and for the restitution of a castle [of the] Florentines, which he formerly had. He must ask the King and Wolsey to urge the ambassadors of the Pope and Venice. Tells him that the aid and favor of the King [was] of little importance in Italy, but now he is more esteemed than any other prince in the world. He must himself judge how to act.
Wishes for continual news. Amboise, xx .. Aug.
Fr., pp. 3, mutilated.
22 Aug.
Harl. MS.
442, f. 68.
B. M.
2423. The COINAGE.
Proclamation fixing the prices of the following coins at their current values in foreign parts, in order to check the exportation of English coin. Crowns of the sun, or others of the same weight and fineness, 4s. 6d.;—a new coin is about to be made in England, called the crown of the rose, of the same weight and value. The large single ducat, 4s. 8d.; the double ducat, 9s. 4d. Gold brought to the Mint of the fineness of the sovereign, royal, noble and half noble, shall be paid for in crowns at the rate of 44s. the ounce. Hampton Court, 22 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII.
Modern copy, pp. 4.
22 Aug.
R. O.
2424. WOLSEY to SIR JOHN DAUNCE.
Order to pay to Carlisle Herald his diets for 40 days, as he is sent to Ireland with letters to the earl of Kildare. Signed.
At the foot: Carlisle's receipt for the above sum, 8l. 22 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII. Signed.
P. 1.
24 Aug.
R. O.
2425. JAMES V. to HENRY VIII.
The letter he wrote formerly about the conspiracy of the archbishop of St. Andrew's and his partisans proceeded not from his own mind, but through the solicitation of the earl of Angus, in whose keeping he then was. The Archbishop was acting at the instance of the Queen to obtain the King's freedom, and have him out of partial keeping. Asks Henry to maintain his mother and those who take her part.
Desires him to write to the Pope in favor of her and the Archbishop, notwithstanding any writings in his name to the contrary. "Subscrivit with oure hand, and closit with the signet of oure deerest moder, because oure selis and signettis are withalding." Edinburgh, 24 Aug. 1526. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
R. O. 2426. JAMES V. to HENRY VIII.
Asks him to promote to some benefice in Ireland dene Mawryse O'Congaly, monk professed of the Cistercian abbey of Our Lady de Rupe, in the diocese of Cassillen (Cashel), Ireland. He has resided at the schools in this realm for several years, and is well commended. He now intends to go to England. Edinburgh, _ day of _, 13 Jas. V. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
24 Aug.
R. O.
2427. NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, MARQUIS OF EXETER, and LORD ROCHFORD to WOLSEY.
Encloses letters written to them by the countess dowager of Oxford, stating that the writs from Chancery to the Cambridgeshire justices for removing the force from the manor of Campes, and restoring her, could take no effect; and the justices have certified Wolsey what they have done. Advises that, besides the ordinary remedies, letters missive from the King should be sent to the earl of Oxford, or the justices proceeded against for not executing the writs; and then the said certificate, with information of what has been done, sent to them, that they may inform the King, and ask his further pleasure.
Wishes the requests of the Countess to be effectually accomplished. Sir Wm. Barington's house, St. Bartholomew's day. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate.
24 Aug.
R. O.
2428. SANDYS to WOLSEY.
Received Wolsey's letter on Sunday, 19 (fn. 2) Aug. Dr. Knight, who was to have presented the ambassadors and Wolsey's letters to the King, fell sick at Alton, and only got to Winchester on Monday morning, so that Sandys presented the packet in place of him. Last Sunday the ambassadors came before the King, who entertained them well, and gave them answer as mentioned in the King's own letter writen by the dean of the Chapel. Begs that Wolsey will secure payment to him, by the last day of August, of the sums due to him by certain merchant strangers, by virtue of the recognizances, which were forfeited, and afterwards renewed by Wolsey's command. Has been kept a year and a half waiting for the money, which is over 100l. Desires a scire-facias against Melchior Libblere, of the Steelyard, who is not released of his first recognizance. Thinks, considering their offence against the King in sueing him in another Prince's dominion, and also as they have kept Sandys so long waiting, that they should deliver the money into his possession until the validity of the prize can be ascertained. Is in great need of money. The King is in prosperous estate, and the Queen also. The former will continue his "giestes" according to the last announcement. Thruxton, 24 Aug. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: To my lord [Legat]e. Endd.
25 Aug.
R. O.
2429. CLEMENT VII. to HENRY VIII.
In commendation of Sebastian Sauli and his partners, merchants of Genoa, who have sent two ships laden with alum, (fn. 3) to be sold in England by their agents Giromalc and Balthassar de Spinoli. Rome, 25 Aug. 1526, 3 pont.
Lat., vellum. Add.
25 Aug.
R. O.
2430. JAMES ARCHBISHOP OF ST. ANDREW'S to HENRY VIII.
Sent lately a chaplain with instructions to Henry, and now sends his familiar clerk, master Peter Howstoun, for whom he desires credence. Dunfermline, 25 Aug. 1526. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
25 Aug.
R. O.
2431. RANDULPH BRERETON, of Chester, to WM. BRERETON, groom of the King's Privy Chamber.
On the 23 Aug. received his letter by Robert Irneshagh; and has accordingly written to master Doctor Hulman, (fn. 4) inclosing copies of the offices granted to Brounwynde and William Troutebek, which are both good and proven, and the fees that belong to the office of parker, viz., 1d. a day, eight acres of land, and windfallen wood. Has also stated that all other parkers have had the like. Sends the letter enclosed, unsealed, that he may read it, and amend it if necessary. Has also stated "the greatest value that the agistament of the park hath been answered of," enclosing copies of the accounts subscribed with his hand, that he may perceive the truth of it. No patent has been granted to parkers, containing the herbage. Advises him to get his warrant signed in all haste, as Sir Rauff Eggerton rode on Friday last to my lady Princess, "and so will come up with her, and intendeth to make great labour for all his offices and farms to him and his son jointly, if it cost him 1,000l., as it is me told. Howbeit he speaketh fair, and every day more gentely than other, I trust him the worse, and therefore prepare the best ye can for remedy as well with the King's grace as my lord Cardinal." Advises him to move the lady Princess, my lord of Exeter, and other of her council, to be good to him in the offices and farms the King has given him, and to cause master Knevett, and others that have offices of Eggerton's given them, to do the same.
Would like to know his pleasure concerning warrants that come down from the King and my lady Princess's council to be served in Shotwike park. One has lately come from her for a buck for master Russell, her secretary. Wishes to know whether it shall be served, and what answer is to be made to others who bring any. It were well for master Russell to have his, because he is secretary. Perceives that the lady Princess has, by the King's placard, authority to kill or give deer at her pleasure in any forest or park within the room that is appointed to her; and so, if her warrants are not served, displeasure will ensue. Wishes to know if the present parker is to continue. No one will stay long in the place, unless there are other profits than 1d. a day. "Master Eggerton speaketh fair now, and saith he is glad that ye have it." The sooner he moves him for the occupation of the eight acres and the house, with the profits belonging to the office, the better the King and Council will consider that 1d. a day is too little to live upon. He had better show the copies of the patents made to Brounwynde and other parkers to his learned counsel before Master Eggerton's coming, and take their advice, and find out whether the eight acres and windfallen wood are his, by reason of the parkership; if he has the grants in as large a manner as Brounwynde and others before him. The sooner he "is at a point" for the occupation of the land the better, as it is sown with corn, and the third sheaf belongs to him or his deputy as parker.
Asks him to forward the letter to Hulman when he has read it. Is surprised that his last letter was so long coming. Asks him to remember his matter concerning Robert Johns, and be good master to him therein. Hugh Salisbury has distrained the tenants for their rent. Has done the same, trusting that Robt. Johns will keep the last promise he made at Greenwich. Wishes to know his pleasure in the same. Would not be put to rebuke in the matter, if it be in his power to remedy it, for 100 marks. He can send word about what is to be done if any warrants are served in Shotwyke Park, and about Robt. Johns, by the bearer. Has given him 8s. for his costs, and has hired him a horse, as he could find no other messenger. Chester, 25 Aug.
Paper roll. Add.
25 Aug.
P. S. b.
2432. For the ABBEY OF WALTHAM HOLY CROSS.
Petition for a congé d'élire, on resignation of John Malyn, abbot. 25 Aug. 1526.
27 Aug.
R. O.
2433. DR. RIC. WOLEMAN to WOLSEY.
Has received from him, enclosed in Dr. Stephen's letters, certain letters for the King to sign, concerning the summoning of the bp. of Armagh and the earl of Ormond's matters. Has given them to the King, who thinks the Bishop should not be called now, as Kildare the deputy and others are coming over, and he fears that the absence of so many might cause disorder. He whishes Wolsey to write to him to send secretly the demeanors of both the lords. He has therefore not signed the letter.
Has obtained the King's signature to the letter for the earl of Ormond, concerning the prize wines of Ireland, and that to the mayor of Waterford about a gun called a "batry a brasse," and he has given them to Jas. Butler son of the Earl. Rammesbury, 27 Aug. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my lord Legate's good grace.
27 Aug.
R. O.
2434. RIC. SAMPSON and RIC. WOLEMAN to WOLSEY.
The day before the King departed from Winchester Mr. Secretary (Knight) came thither, and declared to him Wolsey's intent touching the three deaneries. The King commended Wolsey's discretion in the matter. Send this intelligence for fear Mr. Secretary, who remains at Winchester on account of his illness, may have forgotten to acquaint him. Thank him for remembering them. Ramysbury, 27 Aug. Signed.
P. 1. Add.
27 Aug.
R. O.
2435. MAGNUS to WOLSEY.
Informed Wolsey lately how things proceeded at the assize at Newcastle, and what he had done in the causes Wolsey committed to him in Northumberland. Understands Sir Ant. Ughtred is sending to Wolsey for the commissions for handing over the keeping of Berwick town and castle to him from the earl of Westmoreland. There are so few justices in Northumberland, especially of the quorum, that quarter sessions have not been kept for a long time there. Sir W. Evers and Magnus think the gentlemen in the enclosed schedule should be put in the commission with my lord of Richmond's council and those of the bishopric of Durham that were in it before;—Sir Chr. Dacre, Cuthbert Radcliff, now sheriff of the county, and Chr. Metford, learned man, to be of the quorum. Divers commissions of sewers, and for reformation of mills and fish garths, arrived here this week, for the three Ridings of Yorkshire, Westmor., Cumb., and Northumbd. Expects several of the Council here tomorrow or next day, with whom he will consult about putting them in force, though much is done already in cleansing common sewers and mending highways. The clerk of the Green Cloth whom Wolsey appointed to be here is come. Is going to draw up along with him a declaration of the costs of this household, with suggestions for putting it on a better footing. Will see books and inventories made of everything as in the King's household. Sheriff Hutton, 27 Aug.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Unto [my l]ord Legate's good [grace]e.
R. O. 2436. SHERIFF HUTTON.
View of the castle at Sheriff Hutton taken by Tho. Magnus, Sir Geo. Lawson and John Uvedaile.
The lead on the roof is so worn that three of the old webs will scarcely make one; at least 16 fowder will be required to repair it. It is thought the timber is sufficient if any faults are found. There is enough to repair them. The corbels, water tables, stone spouts, and other necessaries of masonry, especially the crests and loops, must be newly set up and mended with lime and sand. Most of the chimneys and draughts require mending, for they are very noisome when occupied. There are three wards; the inner one contains the hall, kitchen, lodgings for the lord, chapel, se .. r, buttery, pantry, and offices. The walls and towers are strong and high, but must be mended with lime and sand. Great part of the mantlewall of the middle ward toward the park is broken down, 21 yds. long, 6 yds. high, and 7 qrs. in breadth. The north wall also requires mending for 14 yds. in length, and to be increased 2½ yds. in height. Another part is also defective 36 yds. long by 6 qrs. high. There is a well of fair water in the inner ward, and ponds for baking and brewing, near the walls outside. The bakehouse, very good, is within the inner ward. The brewhouse and horse mills, both good, are in the outer ward or base court, with stables, barns, garners, and offices. The base court is all open, the walls decayed, and the gates gone. The gate of the inner ward is worn, and needs three tons of iron to mend it. Of ordnance there is 6 brass falcons with their carts, 10 score iron shots, 6 barrels of powder, a barrel of bowstrings, 6 coffins of bows and arrows, 21 hagbushes, 2 bullet moulds. Signed by Magnus and Uvedaile.
Pp. 2.
27 Aug.
Er. Ep. p. 946.
2437. ERASMUS to WILLIAM COPE, Physician.
Gives an account of his complaints, and his sufferings from the stone. Could get no sound advice. They say that Linacre died of the same complaint. His enemies are urged on by Lee, who is now on an embassy in Spain. (fn. 5) Will be glad to receive a prescription from him. Basle, 27 Aug. 1526.
Lat.
Er. Ep. p. 1813. 2438. ERASMUS to FRANCIS, Physician to Cardinal Wolsey.
Sends him a minute account of his complaint. Is afraid it will turn to excoriation of the bladder, a most painful disease, of which Linacre died.
Lat.
Er. Ep. p. 1815. 2439. ERASMUS to FRANCIS, Physician to Cardinal Wolsey.
Is often astonished why England is so frequently visited with the plague. Thinks that much is due to the construction of the houses, which are so full of windows as to admit the light and exclude the air. Complains of the chalk floors, and the rushes, which are so carelessly renewed that the bottom layer remains sometimes twenty years, harboring all sorts of nastiness of men and dogs and offal. Thinks also that the cause is to be found in the abundance of salt water, marsh grounds and the like, and the salt diet of the people. Thirty years ago, if I had entered a chamber which had not been inhabited for some months, I caught a fever. Wishes the streets were kept more clean from mud and other abominations. Would have written to the Cardinal, but had no time.
Lat.
Er. Ep. p. 1815. 2440. ERASMUS to FRANCIS, Physician to Cardinal Wolsey.
Excuses himself for not writing more frequently, as he has been much occupied. (fn. 6)
Lat.
28 Aug.
R. O.
2441. RALPH EARL OF WESTMORELAND to the DUKE OF RICHMOND'S COUNCIL.
When he first entered on the office of deputy captain of Berwick and vicewarden of the East and Middle Marches under the Duke, Wolsey promised that he should receive his fees from the Council, which promise he repeated when the Earl was last at London. Wrote lately to Magnus, who says he will pay him all fees due for Berwick, but cannot pay his vicewarden's fee. Wishes to know if they have power to pay him, or how they would advise him to act. Raby, 28 Aug. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: "To my lord [dean] of Zorke, and unto all other the fellows of my lord of Richmond's grace's council."
30 Aug.
Cal. B. II. 118.
B. M.
St. P. IV. 454.
2442. MAGNUS to WOLSEY.
Has this day received a letter from Sir Chr. Dacre, dated Morpeth, the 28th, which he transmits, with some correspondence between him and Angus, &c. Perceives that Angus will be put in peril, or forced to give up the keeping of the young king of Scots, although he and Arran now take one part. A chaplain of the archbishop of St. Andrew's has passed from hence with a letter from James to the King, stating that he is kept in thraldom by Angus. The Queen hopes by the Archbishop's means to have the rule of her son, and the Archbishop expects to be Chancellor again. Writes this because Patrick Sinclair is now with the King or Wolsey, and two chaplains of the Archbishop, making suit. Sends also a brief declaration of the expenses of my lord or Richmond's council "for an whole year forty and nine days, ended at my repair and coming hither." Has had some consultations with the clerk of Green Cloth about reducing the expences. Sheriffhutton, 30 Aug. Signed.
Add.
30 Aug.
Vit. B. VIII.
115.
B. M.
2443. GHINUCCI to [WOLSEY].
"Ill. ac R., &c. Post ultimas literas, qu[æ datæ] fuerunt xxi. hujus mensis, S. D. N. habuit literas ex Hispania, quibus ei significa[tur] quod Cæsar ordinaverat ut Vicerex cum 8,000 peditibus per mare veniret in Italiam, et q[uod] ipse Vicerex accelerabat adventum suum quantum poterat. Habet etiam literas ex Gallia datas xviiij. hujus mensis quibus ei significatur quod Rex Gallorum, audita præparatione dicti Viceregis, vocaverat oratores Pontificis et Venetorum, e[i]sque dixerat quod cum haberet copiam navi[um] in Provincia et Britannia, erat contentus præparare classem quæ dicto Viceregi se opponeret, dummodo Pontifex pro una tertia et Veneti pro alia tertia expensas subministrarent. Ad q[uod] oratores S. D. N. et Venetorum responderant esse contentos, et idem hinc a S. D. N. et ex [Venetiis] a Venetis respondetur, asseritque S. D. N. donec poterit nullis parcet expensis, [etiamsi] vires suæ non sint tales ut multo tempore has expensas sustinere possit.
"Dixit etiam Rex Gallorum dictis oratoribus quod Cæsar, audito fœdere inter Regem Gallorum et Italos, in quo dabatur sibi potestas intra certum tempus intrandi, dixerat oratoribus ut curarent illu[c] mitti mandata, quia durante dilatione sibi data se super hoc resolvet, et cum ipse Rex Gal[lorum] peteret a dictis oratoribus super hoc eorum opinionem illi responderunt id non esse faci[endum], ne tanta Cæsari auctoritus daretur; et sic conclusum fuit quod dicta mandata non mitterentur. Quoad ea quæ Italiam concernunt, exercitus confœderatorum p ... tentavit recuperationem Cremonæ et semper passus est repulsam, adeo quod ex repulsa ... habita de qua hodie S. D. N. habuit certificationem creditur quod confœderati ab inceptis desi[sterent].
"Classis S. D. N. et Venetorum die xxviij. hujus mensis junxerant se Luburni cum classe Reg[is] Gallorum, ut quam primum irent ad civitatem Januæ, pro ea capienda; interim autem ceperant quamplures [n]aves Januensium, quæ frumentum et alia victualia portabant. Sperant hic ipsam civitatem brevi capere. D. v. R. significabitur de successu.
"D. v. R. ex rerum successu potest comprehendere quæ spes haberi potest de rebus Italiæ. Ego pro certo teneo quod nisi per Regem Gallorum ultra montes, præsertim in Flandria, bellum moveatur, res Italiæ aut male succedent aut saltem longissima febre laborabunt, et hoc ex eo potissime opinor quod video exercitum Cæsaris nescio quo facto quasi sine pecuniis Cæsari inservire. Puto ex magna parte id succedere ex diffidentia salutis. S. D. N. rogat D. v. R. et Ser. Regem nostrum ut ei non desint, urgeantque Regem Gallorum ut tam in præparanda nova classe, de qua supra, promptitudine et celeritate utatur; sperare enim videtur victoria[m]; si cito dicto Viceregi occurratur, non possit Cæsar aliunde suis in Italia auxilium præbere, attento quod provisum est ut lanziknechti non possint in Italiam descendere. Alia non occurrunt, &c."
Cipher, undeciphered; mutilated.
30 Aug.
R. O.
2444. GHINUCCI to WOLSEY.
With his last letters of the 21st, which he gave to the Nuncio, sent the bulls for the college, and said how pleasantly the Pope granted them, how readily the Datary procured their expedition, and how desirous the Pope is of knowing more about the college.
The concord between the Pope and the Colonnas is at last concluded. Rome, 30 Aug. 1526. Signed.
Lat., p. 1. Add. Endd.
[Aug.]
R. O.
R. St. P. I. 173.
2445. WOLSEY to MORE.
Is glad that his proceedings with the ambassadors, in putting of the King's entry into the league, have satisfied the King. Is now in no small perplexity, as commissions have come from the Pope and Venice, and the French ambassador expects the same; and if Wolsey refuses to entertain them, these parties may join the Emperor. Wishes to know the King's pleasure. Thinks he can so order matters for assurance of the King's pension that no conclusion shall be taken this year. Believes that this would be the best course. Is surprised that the King refuses to lend the Peter Pumgarnet to the French ambassador, considering his deserts, and the manifest advantage of so doing. Insists upon the greater customs which will arise from it. The ambassador offers to new-rig her, besides paying 500 marks. Sends the King by lord Exeter crowns of the Rose, freshminted, which he hopes will please, and are current at 4s. 6d. the crown. Is not of the King's opinion that his answer to Luther's letter should be set forth at once, without waiting for a copy of the latter. Luther is full of subtlety, and the King's answer without the copy will be obscure.
Draft, in Wriothesley's hand, corrected by Wolsey.
2446. HENRY VIII. to LUTHER. (fn. 7)
Has at length received his letter, dated Sept. 1, 1525, expressing his sorrow for writing a foolish and hasty book against him at the instigation of his enemies, who represented that the King's book was not written by the King, and for his abuse of Wolsey. Asserts that he is the author of his book, and defends it. Wolsey is too prudent to be moved by Luther's abuse. He will be dearer to the King, the more he is hated by Luther and those like him. Luther calls him the plague of England; but the country owes many benefits to him, not the least being his opposition to heresy. England is well rid of apostate friars, who, deserting his kingdom and Christ's faith, are wallowing in lust with Luther. Inveighs against his marriage with a nun. Argues against Luther's doctrines concerning salvation by faith, and free will.
Would not have answered his letter, if Luther had not asserted that the King favored him. Luther says that he merely wants to be heard, and complains of being condemned before conviction; but the King asks whether he was not heard before the cardinal of St. Sixtus, when legate in Germany; whether he has not been heard publicly disputing in Saxony; and everywhere else by his books. Doubts not that he has been rightly condemned, as Luther himself condemns the Pope and the College of Cardinals. Reminds him that his opinions were condemned by the University of Paris, and others, and by the Emperor at the Diet of Worms; but that he refused to submit to their judgment, and appealed to the next General Council, assembled in the Holy Spirit; thus leaving a loophole for escape, if condemned by any future Council. Defends the Pope and the Papal Court from his aspersions. Refuses his offer to write a book in the King's praise. Advises him to give up his wife, bewail his errors, and the fate of those whom his doctrine has destroyed; and either publicly to preach the truth, condemning his former errors, or else to retire to a convent.
Lat., pp. 40.
2447. GRANTS in AUGUST 1526.
7. Rob. Hogons, the King's master cook. Annuity of 20 marks. Del. Westm., 7 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 1, m. 10.
13. Anth. Burleth, grocer, of London. Protection; going in the retinue of lord Berners, deputy of Calais. Langley, 12 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 13 Aug.—P.S.
17. John Voyar (Wyar?), salter, of London. Protection; going in the retinue of lord Berners. Del. Hampton Court, 17 Aug.—P.S.
21. John Johnson, page of the Queen's Chamber. Grant, during pleasure, of the office of the King's barge and boat, vice John Thurston. Del. Westm., 21 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 1, m. 18.
21. John Williams. Grant of the 10l. annual rent in Suthwark granted by patent 1 May 31 Edw. III. to Ric. Englis, yeoman of the Crown, in tail male, by the service of keeping a coney-warren of the said King; with a provision that it should revert to the Crown after the death of the said Richard without heirs male of his body and of Wm. Aldekar who then held it. Del. Westm., 21 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII.—S. B. Pat. p. 1, m. 17.
27. Martin Polarde, haberdasher, of London. Protection; going in the retinue of lord Berners. Winchester, 8 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII. Del. Hampton Court, 27 Aug.—P.S.
30. Sir Edmund Walsingham. Custody of the manor of Strete, and all lands, &c. in the parishes of Lympne, Burghmerche, Newcherche, Demecherch, and Orgariswike (Kent), late of Rich. Colvile, deceased, during the minority of Geoffrey, s. and h. of Richard, with wardship of the heir, at the annual rent of 18l. Del. Westm., 30 Aug. 18 Hen. VIII.—S.B. Pat. p. 1, m. 7.

Footnotes

  • 1. See St. P. IV. 454 (note).
  • 2. The 19th was a Sunday in 1526.
  • 3. allumina allumeriæ nostræ Sanctæ Cruciatæ.
  • 4. Woolman?
  • 5. On this subject see Gattinara's letter to Erasmus, 10 Feb. 1527, inter Epistolas Erasmi, p. 970.
  • 6. There are three other letters to the same person, without date, containing nothing of consequence.
  • 7. Printed at the end of the "Assertio Septem Sacramentorum."