Henry VIII: February 1527, 1-15

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

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'Henry VIII: February 1527, 1-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530, (London, 1875) pp. 1271-1291. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp1271-1291 [accessed 24 March 2024]

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

February 1527

Cal. D. X. 349,
354.
B. M.
2840. [FRANCIS I. to PRINCESS MARY.]
* * * de b ... t allie ... allye ... y et nous ... tant que ... treshaulte et tres puissante princesse ... e vertu propos continuer perseverer et demourer ... seure que [de] nostre part nostre dit bon frere, cousin et allye, nous trou[vera] ... et allye, desirant lonneur, bien et prosperité de sa personne [comme les] nostres propres, comme par effect luy et vous congnoistrez de ... nous prions, tres haulte et tres puissante princesse, nostre treschere ... [Dieu] vous ait en sa tressaincte et digne garde. Escript à Paris ... Sealed.
Only two burnt fragments of this letter remain. The latter portion of the last six lines is separate, at ƒ. 354.
1 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 26.
B. M.
2841. RUSSELL to [WOLSEY].
A gentleman of the French king's chamber, who left the Pope six or seven days ago, says his Holiness "doth very well, and [that he is] mynded to follow this enterprise." The Viceroy is besieging a town of the Church's, 40 miles from Rome, whither the Pope has sent his army, 9,000 picked men. It is thought there will be a battle in two days. The Imperialists are 12,000 of all sorts. The Pope was lately in great fear for money, but he has now levied 40,000 ducats, besides 30,000 which the French king has sent him by Vaudemont, who left Savona three days ago. His Holiness expects to get 60,000 or 80,000 more in February. Has waited here four days for passage. They are in great fear here, for 5,000 or 6,000 Imperialists arrived yesterday within 24 miles, and the town is not strong. This town is very necessary to Francis to keep Genoa from victuals, for the passage to Rome, and for the lying of the army. It is thought the Imperialists are going to victual Genoa. Has lost 13 days by his stopping at Paris and here. Savone, 1 Feb. Signed.
P. 1, mutilated.
1 Feb.
R. O.
2842. ITALIAN NEWS.
"Ex Pussey, ultimo Januarii."
"Scripsi ultimis meis dubium quod nobis occurrebat ne Ve[neti] fidem non essent præstaturi commissionibus Domini In ... ris et remotæ ab intelligentia actionum, et no[vorum] ... ut hoc R. D. Legato significaretis, ut ... si Mtas Cæs. sincere procedit, posset agent ... tractatu exsequi vellent, quicquid sib[i] ... datum, qua in opinione nunc magis co[nfirmatur] ... Francisci in sua reversione ex Hi[spania] ... commissionem concludendi pacem universalem ... ferens secum, intentionem suæ Mtis Cæs. in omni[bus] ... [cœ]pisset tractare cum Pontifice, supervenit int[erim] ... induciarum tractatu continue auxit i ... tionibus, nec voluit admittere, ne quid ... Generalis. Et ita existimo facturum ... Sermi, nisi sua autoritate aliud prom[iserint].
"Roma habemus literas diei xi. significantes ... num viceregis, quas mitto adnexas, a ... palam dixit, se, si etiam subeundum esset ... periculum, si a Chrmo fierent ea quæ deb[erent et ju-]rabat, affulsisset aliqua spes auxilii ... cum Cæsare. Sed si ab utraque Mte desere[retur] ... non timeret facere, modo esset certus de ... adductum accepturum jugum, quod excuteret ... ego, quod cum per meas literas cognoverit bonam [per litteras] vestras prius missas intellexerit mentem ... [su]perveniente postea D. Ruscello cum majoribus et auxiliis [et] autoritate commissionum, quas affert secum, recusaturam [conditio]nes. Nam cum adventus D. Rentii, cum quo ivit Pandulphus ... ab isto Ser. Rege, adeo firmaverit suam Stem quod ... [a]ugendo exercitui, et ex consilio D. Vitelli miserat ... [P]reneste et totidem Tybur, cum aliquo equitatu et rei ... ponebat Velitris, ut prohiberent ne Vicerex [posset] propius Romam accedere, et hoc animo Pontificis ... anus promiserit se non defuturum urbi ... sis quattuor mille pedites paraverat, quid ... int D. Ruscellus et D. de Vademont, qui ... 20,000 quos D. Rentius debebat deferre; quem ... habeo nova applicuisse Saonam die xv. ... iniquitas postulationum Viceregis et spes [Regis] et Rmi D. Max. quam augebit D. Ruscellus [con]firmabunt animum suæ Stis quod potius mo ... i voluntate suorum confœderatorum ... a D. Locumtenente, ex quibus et ex ... Veneto intelligitur Dominos Venetos maxima [cum celer]itate munivisse Bergomum, ut sint ... ne hostium contra suas civitates et possint libere [ire] ubicumque fuerit necessarium extra ipsorum dominium. [Audiun]t quod dux Urbini Padum transeat in defen ... [q]uotiens opus fuerit, et quando Hispani ... esse trajecto flumine Padi se Germanis conjunxerint, et si dictus exercitus [proficiscatur] in Thusciam, dux Padum transibit ... et marchio Salutiarum cum suis ... peditibus, cum militibus qui eran[t] ... Thusciam proficiscetur, ubi etiam ... et cum spatium et commoditatem t ... dederit, invenient Florentiam s[ecuram] quia ex quo fuit ibi Petrus N[avariæ] circa illam operatum fuit. Ex istis ... quod Hispani cum Burboniensi e ... [pa]raverant transire, quam ... causa tam longæ resolution[is] ... ea quæ nobis feliciter eve[ntura sint ad] hoc attribuunt. Prima est q[uod] ... vident, quod sibi necessarium es[t] ... et invenient Florentiam m[unitam] ... Secunda est quod antequam Germ[an]i ... et sine adminiculo aliquorum ann ... [stipen]dia trium mensium qui sunt q ... quod cum Hispani consueverint ip ... et sint tam pauci numero ... si, qui non sunt nisi 4,000 neque possunt facere quin [Hispan]os relinquant in præsidio Mediolani et Papiæ ... quod istæ aut aliæ ingotæ nunc nobis difficul[tates] ... [r]evocare ab ista expeditione, quod per primas ... quia cogentur Germani facere reso[lutionem q]uam volent facere quamprimum; qui si erunt ... [im]pediti, possent esse magis nocumento ... ibus, quæ cum sint oneratæ tanto pondere ... nt et dirumpentur. Sunt dicti Germani ... os multum a nostris damnificati, nec possunt ... [an]imorum suspensione, et quia etiam ... versus Bononiam, auxiliante duce ... [no]n creditur), illuc tamen præmiserunt ... lo ad illam muniendam et ad præceden[dum] ... hostes arriperent illud iter.
"... [Lu]gduno die xxi., cujus adventu non ... sit futurus animo confirmato, maxim ... no præsentaneo et spe futuri, quod non poterit ... victoria, quam nisi obstiterit inopia, quæ ... potestis vobis judicio omnium expertorum ... polliceri."
"Ex Pussi, kal. Februarii.
"Cum haberem in ordine allegatas diei xx ... supervenerunt hesterno mane literæ v[estræ] ... scriptæ quas vidimus Rmus D. Le[gatus] ... celeritate. Modus procedendi istius ... est tantum circumspectus et pr[udens quod] ... possumus sperare omnes bonos effectu[s] ... ut dare videtur, habent omnes co ... hujusmodi negotia. Ego vero cognosco h ... remedia, aut celerem pacem, aut præsen ... quod difficillime fieri potest, nisi ... quia ego non credo Chrmum moturum ... et promittat nisi sequatur ... sermo Rege pro qua expedi[ret] ... aptandis necessariis itineri ... nobis videtur, quod Cæsar cog ... tendat se habere illius desyd[erium] ... non ostendit illi arma et se ... intentione, quia summo eum ... deponet appetitum monarchiæ qua ... pro sua præda, et quia est necessa ... primo multis cum justificationibus an ... supplicetis suæ Mti quod adimpletis omni[bus] ... præstet fidem verbis et excusationibus Cæsaris ... [om]nes cæremonias, quia nulla alia re magis ... ore."
"... [pru]dentissimus discursus istius Rmi D ... d concilium, quod in loco multum accomo ..."
Lat., mutilated, pp. 6.
3 Feb.
R. O.
2843. ITALY.
"Exemplum literarum R. Legati in castris Pontificiis contra Viceregem ex Frusinone die iij. Februarii, hora xviii., ad R. Legatum."
This morning before daybreak they set fire to certain stores, and left a number of cannon balls and culverines (mediarum colubrinarum), probably because they had not cattle to carry them away. Thus they quietly departed, as some say, with guns in their hands. Our light cavalry infest their rear, hoping to disperse them. When we have got the victory, we intend to make good use of it. Will not hear of the Pope paying 200,000 [ducats]. The Datary must not bind him to such vile conditions as were proposed to him. It is for him to impose conditions, not to accept them. It will be easy for the Datary, by a word or letter, to take from the Pope the citadel (of St. Angelo), Pallianum and Monte Forte. Wishes the Datary to send money and stores, and peace will be made everywhere far and near. Hopes the Pope will forgive him afterwards for not obeying him, unless he thinks they ought not to have followed up their advantage. Requests him to tear up the capitulations, and prepare those 200,000 [ducats] to exterminate the enemies of the Holy See, not to preserve them. Has despatched a German nobleman, a prisoner of those Swiss, who promises that he will bring over 2,000 of the enemy to the Papal side. If he do, hopes entirely to crush them; but in any case will pursue them till they give up. They are taking the road to Ceccanum. Will move the camp tomorrow. No more letters will be sent to Fieramosca, since he would not await their reply. Prisoners are being continually brought in, so that it is evident they will soon be completely routed.
Lat., pp. 2. Endd.: Nova ex literis (?) oratoris Pontificis dat' xvjo. (fn. 1) Februarii.
3 Feb.
R. O.
2844. ANNE CAUSTON.
Lease by Hen. Bures to Dame Anne Causton, widow, of Wherstede hall and lands in Freston, Suff. Dated 3 Feb. 18 Hen. VIII.
Draft in Wriothesley's hand, corrected by Cromwell, pp. 4.
4 Feb.
Vesp. C. IV.
27*.
B. M.
2845. DON INIGO DE MENDOZA to WOLSEY.
In behalf of Master Peter, a Spaniard, who is suffering from the delays of the law. "Ex hac domo suburbana, quarta Febr." Signed.
Lat., p. 1. Add.
Vesp. C. IV.
219*.
B. M.
2846. SAME to the SAME.
In behalf of Peter of Spain, in a suit against a certain priest. From my house in the suburbs. Signed.
Lat., p. 1. Add. Endd.
4 Feb.
Lettere
di Principi,
II. 49 b.
2847. The DATARY GIBERTO to COUNT FILIPPINO DORIA.
The Pope directs me to write to count Peter (of Navarre), who is ordered to Florence, to leave you in command of the remainder of the galleys [at Savona], for the service of the League, and for the purpose of conducting hither the gentleman of the king of England (Russell), who is to bring the money, as also the couriers and money that are to come from France. Rome, 4 Feb. 1527.
Ital.
ii. Similar letter to count Peter of Navarre, dated the 5th.
4 Feb.
Cal. E. I. II. ?]
77.
B. M.
2848. BRINON to the BISHOP OF BAYONNE.
Has not written, on account of the daily despatches of the Grand Master. The procuration of the merchants has not been forgotten. The Grand Master has written the cause of the delay. Hopes to be this week in Paris to convene the merchants and settle this article. All the processes about "le faict des Angloys" have been decided. The King is in good health, and is with his mother, who is suffering from gout, though the pain is better today. The Admiral is going to Burgundy. Most of the other governors are in their provinces. The Cardinal has received his hat and his title, "et si ha os apertum." He has called together a provincial council. St. Germain-en-Laye, 4 Feb.
Desires to be recommended to the Legate. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: A, &c. l'evesque de Bayonne, ambassadeur pour le Roy en Angleterre.
4 Feb.
R. O.
2849. MONTMORENCY to the BISHOP OF BAYONNE.
The English ambassador should have written by the last despatch, but his packet has only just arrived, and is sent by this express post. As soon as the gold seal is made, the draft of the treaty of perpetual peace altered, and the procuration for merchandise settled, all shall be sent. The King is in good health, and went today to see Madame in her chamber, to which she is at present confined by a cold. St. Germain-en-Laye, 4 Feb. Signed.
Fr., p. 1. Add.
5 Feb.
Nero, B. VI. 110.
B. M.
2850. ITALY.
Copy of a letter from the bishop of Pola, dated Venice, 5 Feb.
Wrote last on the 28th ult. Has since received letters from Rome of that date, and later, saying that the Pope has entered into a truce with the enemy for three years, but the capitulations are not yet finished. If the French king and the Signory would join it, the Pope hopes to bring about a good universal peace, and has commissioned the Bishop to ask the Signory to send instructions for the purpose to their ambassador at Rome. Received answer from them at the fifth hour last night, that they had discussed what he had said in the Senate, and saw that if such a treaty passed, the Pope first and then all Italy would be ruined, as the Pope would have no security for the fulfilment of the promises of the Imperialists; they would, therefore, write to their ambassador to exhort the Pope to keep up his courage, and that they would not fail to aid him, especially as the enemy seem in difficulties, while their forces are flourishing. If he wishes to make a treaty, he should wait for a month, so that he can hear from the French king, and conclude what he wishes. Wrote an account of this yesterday to Rome. Received today letters from the Pope's nuncio with the Archduke, dated Vienna, 15th ult., stating that ambassadors came on the 14th from Presbourg to tell the Archduke of his election; and that the Turk is making great preparations, and has sent 20,000 horse to Belgrade. The English ambassador is daily expected by the Archduke.
Lat., pp. 2. Headed: Copia l'rarum Ep'i de Pola. Ex Venetiis, die v. Feb. datis. Endd.: E. Roma. Ex l'ris Dni. Gregorii, dat. 5 Feb. Endd. by Agarde: 20 April 1613.
5 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 27.
B. M.
2851. ITALY.
Extracts of letters of the prothonotary Casale, 5 Feb.
Visited the Doge for a conclusion of the matter, who replied that the Senate had come to no arrangement at present as to the truce, as they thought that the kings of France and England, the two chief heads of Christendom, were not contented with it, and that they had written to the Pope not to condescend to any such thing. He had urged that some treaty should be formed to give the confederates better means of preparation. Now things are changed, and the Imperialists are in worse state than before, for then they had wished to subjugate the whole world. They impressed upon the Pope the necessity of trusting to his allies, and of waiting for aid, which was soon coming. If, however, he was resolved to adhere to his determination, he would allow some opportunity for the kings of England and France to be consulted. But as matters now stood, they refused to make any concession as to the treaty. They begged the writer to urge upon the King and Wolsey, that, considering how zealous the Venetians had been from the commencement of the league, they should not now be abandoned in their great necessity.
Bourbon and the Germans are five miles distant from Piacenza, and have already crossed the Po.
Lat., pp. 3.
5 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 24.
B. M.
2852. ITALY.
"Ex literis D. Gregorii, die ultimo Januarii datis."
Today urged the Pope not to treat further "de hoc fœdere," and, as he valued his own safety, not to help the enemy with money, for he now has everything he can ask for, viz., money for continuing the war, and the conclusion of affinity between the King and Francis. His army will be fit for offence as well as defence, and other princes are intending to help him. Said that Francis would be glad of a suspension of arms, but not of money being given to the enemy. The Germans would wish nothing else than to have money and return home, whence they could return to Italy in twenty days at the Emperor's bidding. Argued with his Holiness for two hours. He showed cold letters from Francis, and said that it was necessary to take a truce for a week while waiting for an answer from Venice. Letters afterwards came from France which satisfied him better, but still he would not decline the negotiations till he heard from the Venetians, whose ambassador says they will not consent to it, and tries to encourage the Pope. Has pressed him about sending mandates. He engages to do as the Venetians do, who have promised Casale's brother to send to France, and, if it pleases the King, to send on to England, for the conclusion of peace there.
ii. "Ex literis, datis 5 Febr."—Alarcon is dangerously wounded in two places by musket balls. Moncada will not go into the camp, and does not meet the Viceroy, because he says he does not wish to break the treaty he made. The Legate has led out all the Papal troops together, and intends to fight if he sees they have courage. The Viceroy has a large force of cavalry, but few guns. The number ... is not more than 12,000.
The Pope's army are picked men,—6,000 arquebuseers and scopetteers,—and say they need no help.
News has come from the marquis of Saluzzo, that the Swiss who were expected for the French have begun to arrive. The news of Russell's arrival has caused the Pope great joy. Hearing that he had come to Savona, sent horses to Civita Vecchia to meet him. Francis writes that as the king of England has offered him his daughter, and he thinks this marriage will benefit Christendom, he intends to send four great personages to England to conclude it. The lanzknechts have agreed to serve for a ducat a-piece, a hat, and a pair of shoes.
His brother Francisco has taken a great booty with the cavalry he had at Lodi. Has presented the King's letter against Luther to the Pope, who received it with great ceremony. The Cardinals and all Rome burn with desire to read it. He has ordered it to be printed, but wishes to keep the one he has received for himself.
Lat., mutilated, pp. 4.
5 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 29.
B. M.
2853. ITALY.
Extracts from letters of Gregory Casale, dated 5 Feb.
The Franciscan general and Cæsar Fieramosca have come from the Viceroy to treat for an arrangement, and the Pope has made a truce with them for eight days, in order to consult with the Venetians. Afterwards news arrived from France which greatly encouraged the Pope, but he would make no reply till he got the Venetian answer. The signor Vadimonte and Robbadange had arrived with 30,000 scudi. News afterwards came that the Legate and Renzo had joined their forces at five miles from Frosinone. The Viceroy at first would not accept the truce, hoping to obtain Frosinone. Gives an account of the discussion between the Papal and Imperial deputies. Eventually the Imperialists were defeated with great loss, and the Viceroy retired to a rising ground. The Papal forces behaved well under don John [de Medicis]. The Pope has thrown the abbot of Farfa into prison for treating with the Viceroy. He is the head of the Orsini faction.
News has come from Fresoloni of the retreat of the Viceroy. The Pope says that he has no intention of conceding the terms insisted on in the late treaty. He is very anxious for peace, and hopes it may be concluded by the means of the King and Wolsey. Robbadange had refused to pay the 30,000 scudi to the Pope, under the supposition that he had arranged a treaty with the Imperialists; but, as I saw that the whole matter was now totally changed, I advised Robbadange to pay them. As to the money brought by Russell, the Pope has bidden him write how much pleased he is with it, and thinks he is restored to life and safety. The Germans are five miles from Piacenza; the Spaniards are reported to be marching on Tuscany.
D. Bozer, who commands the garrison of Bologna, is fortifying Romagna.
Lat., pp. 5.
6 Feb.
R. O.
2854. WARHAM to HENRY GOLD.
Has received his letters, dated London, 6 Feb., stating that Mr. Roo (fn. 2) is committed to the Tower for making a certain play. Is sorry such a matter should be taken in earnest. Gold can speak with him concerning lady Rede, Warham's niece, as he is best instructed therein. Though he cannot be present himself in Westminster Hall, he can advise Golde. Has written to ask Fitzharbard, with Mr. Roddall, to examine the cause between lady Rede and Leonard, her son-in-law. Wishes Gold to ask them for their advice, if they cannot make an end. Wishes him also to find out secretly how many names are mentioned in the citation. Knoll, 6 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: To my chaplain, Mr. Henry Golde, London.
6 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 32.
B. M.
2855. ITALY.
Defeat of the Viceroy near Frosinone. Had the account of it from letters of the Florentine ambassador at Rome. Had a letter also from the lieutenant-general of the Pope, dated Parma, the 7th, of the position of the Germans, who had only had a pay of 2 gold cr. for two and a half months' service, and one pair of shoes.
Had an engagement near Piacenza. The Imperialists were defeated, and the prince of Orange escaped with difficulty.
Lat., pp. 2. Dated in margin, Rome, 6 Feb. 1527.
6 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 33.
B. M.
2856. ITALY.
Roma, die vi. Feb. I should be glad that the truce concluded by you in those parts (istic) should take place for six months, although I doubt whether the Viceroy would consent without a large sum of money. It is not right that the injured should give satisfaction to the injurer. Does not believe that the letters of Ignico will do any good. Suspects the commissions which are said to have been given by the Emperor are merely significant of good intentions and not real, and that the Viceroy has a commission to do what he likes. Begs he will send letters that it may be known to all that the Pope was not averse to honest terms. By so doing we shall gain this at least, that the King and Wolsey may learn that neither the Emperor nor his ministers pay that regard to them which they ought. The Emperor's refusal to be included, except prius alibi conclusum fuerit, induces me to believe that his Majesty would not have been so liberal in appointing the King to be arbiter of the peace, unless he thought he would obtain thereby more favorable terms. I trust, however, that the Emperor, out of dread of the King's hostility, which might prove his destruction, will be compelled to accept peace on the conditions offered by the King and Wolsey. This is the great thing to be wished for by the Pope, who will do whatever they advise, even if it were needful to go into Spain or elsewhere, and not expose himself to every danger. The Pope gives you full powers to do as you please about the conclusion of the truce, as shall seem good to the King and Wolsey, in case we are so pressed that we cannot wait; for although the Viceroy has retreated, yet he has an army entire. There is much fear lest the Spaniards and the Germans should invade T[uscany]. His Holiness has no other means of raising money; and if the 30,000 cr., with the few which have come from France, had not instilled into us a little life, we must have fainted.
ii. From other letters of the same 6th day.
The Pope has made no arrangement with the Viceroy. He has persisted firmly in his resolution, contrary to all expectation. You must not be terrified with rumors of practices, which are set on foot only to gain time. I am surprised we have kept ourselves afoot so long. Is sorry to hear that the rumor has hurt the Pope's cause in France; perhaps, however, it all arises from the indifference of the French, and the little love they have to this expedition. As to the objection that the Pope had better spend his money in hiring troops than in buying terms of his enemies, Florence will contribute to peace, but nothing to war; and the dread of war has caused people to hide and hoard their money.
Lat., pp. 4. Endd.
7 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 38.
B. M.
2857. [CAMPEGGIO to WOLSEY.]
Expresses the satisfaction he felt when he first had the happiness of being personally introduced to Wolsey, his thanks for the care Wolsey has taken of his interests, and especially for his late letters, when Campeggio had fallen into some disgrace with the King, for which there was no foundation. Has now been able to throw aside all trouble, and can sleep safe from fear of detraction. Cannot express the delight with which the Consistory heard from the Pope that the King had sent him an ambassador (fn. 3), who had arrived from Civita Vecchia with a large sum of money, and, in order to display his liberality to the Holy See, had received orders from the King to denounce war against the Viceroy and Bourbon, if they did not forthwith abandon the siege of different cities of the Church. The Cardinals are unanimous in declaring that Henry was God's blessing to them, the patron of Italian liberty, and the real defender of the Faith.
Praises the King's book against Luther highly, which, he says, is to be reprinted in multa exemplaria millia, to show that he can defend Christendom not less by genius and learning than by money and arms.
Gives an account of the attempt of the Viceroy on Frosinone. The Viceroy has prevailed on some men of rank to conspire against the Pope. Capture of the abbot of Farfa. Count Vademonte has reached Pisa with his fleet, and the master of the Rhodians is coming to the aid of the Pope with the knights of Rhodes. News about the proceedings at Milan. Urbino has crossed the Po with the Venetians. The marquis of Saluzzo has arrived, and the Pope is raising new troops. Rome, 7 Feb. 1527. Signed.
Lat., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
7 Feb.
Lettere
di Principi,
II. 51.
2858. _ to NICOLO CAPPONI.
Reviews the state of affairs in Italy. It is very true what you say of the slowness of the French, and of the little reliance we can place on our other friends; but I consider it the lesser evil to have these for friends, whatever they may be, than Spaniards and Tuscans for masters. If the matrimonial alliance between the French king and the king of England take effect, as expected, we shall obtain sufficient support to prevent our ruin, The Pope thinks that you there ought to be of good courage, and not to despair at present. Rome, 7 Feb. 1527.
Ital.
8 Feb.
Vesp. C. IV. 29.
B. M.
2859. GHINUCCI to [WOLSEY].
"Ex literis D. Wigorn., die viij. Febr."
Wrote to him out of France, that he did not think Francis would seriously consent to marry the princess Mary. Thinks he is not inclined for the present to agreement, and will do all that he can to conclude his arrange- ments with the King, lest, if his craft were discovered, they should be broken off. He must not have opportunities for new practices. The Imperialists are mighty civil to himself and to Lee,—I suppose because they think they will gain the friendship of England more readily, which they considered was not so easy previous to the news from France, of which a copy had been sent to Wolsey.
* * * (fn. 4) "et id fuit, quominus ego ad contenta in particulari instructione manus apposuerim." Hopes he will find an opportunity to prevent them. If the expedition against the Turks be resolutely undertaken, the nobles will support and follow the Emperor, but the commonalty and the clergy will grant no money on any other condition. The Chancellor has told us as a secret, which is no secret, that the Emperor had sent the French children into the interior. The Pope's chamberlain has returned to France, on condition of taking no letters with him. Had no conversation with him, as he was angry, and asserted that I had been an obstacle to the treaty of peace. Valladolid, &c.
Lat., pp. 4. In Vannes' hand.
Vesp. C. IV.
28.
B. M.
2860. [LEE to WOLSEY.]
The Chancellor said that the Nuncio also said, "De mandatis non sit scrupulus," as others can be sent; that there were three obstacles to the peace,—the exclusion of Sforza from the dukedom of Milan, the detention of the French children, and the money due to England. What further was done in this matter the Chancellor did not tell us, except that, as relates to the King's debt, orders had been given for its payment. News has come from Italy, of date 29 Nov., that the Pope meditated flight when the Viceroy entered the port of S. Stephano. The Pope had sent to him the Franciscan general to know whether he would be satisfied with the abstinence of six months; which he declined, unless the Pope would in the meanwhile keep the Emperor's army. Afterwards the archbishop of Capua was sent, and offered pay for the Germans, with no better success. Hears that the eldest son of the duke of Ferrara is to marry the Emperor's natural daughter, and Ferrara will pay the Emperor 200,000 ducats. The Orsini and Colonna are at variance. Has written before of the prediction of Cornelius.
Lat., pp. 2. Decipher in Vannes' hand.
8 Feb.
R. O.
Ellis, 3 Ser.
II. 118.
2861. SIR W. BULMER and SIR THOS. TEMPEST to WOLSEY.
Apologise for not having ere this informed him of my lord of Richmond's household and other affairs. On their first arrival were treated by the Council in accordance with the books and instructions sent them by Wolsey. Since Magnus came have followed his advice, as he told the Council at York it was the King's pleasure he should be obeyed. The Council had determined, as the best means to lessen the charge of my lord of Richmond's household, to discharge a number of this servants, and diminish the wages of others; to which latter step Magnus would not agree till the King's pleasure was known. By his advice, however, 18 persons were discharged, some for offences, and others as superfluous; and now they have received letters from the King to readmit several with greater wages than before. Are much perplexed, especially as they believe the others hope to obtain similar letters for their reinstatement. Hope the Duke may be able to live on the lands and revenues assigned him by the King, amounting to upwards of 4,000l.; but are not made privy to the value of the lands, or the money they have in their coffers. Magnus has made "good and formal books of household," and the establishment is in marvellous good order, but the expences are not much less than at his first coming down. Although they could not at first make such perfect books for want of a clerk of Green Cloth, if Wolsey command them to declare my Lord's charges before the coming of Magnus, trust to convince him that there has been no waste. Pomfret, 8 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
Calig. D. X. 45.
B. M.
2862. [CLERK to WOLSEY.]
* * * "immediately ... [mes]sangiers depeche into Spain ... yng, he demanded of me what [letters I had out] of England. I said I had letters but ... that at the writing of those letters, th ... late sent here, was but then arrived ... he had letters very fresh, wherefore he was ... that his said gentleman was arrived a[nd] had audience of the King's highness, and [also] communication with your Grace, and ... your G[race] ... very closely in all matters; and thereupon [he requested] me to write unto your Grace that [he was] willing [to join] freely and frankly with the king of England h ... best able ... off them ... o .. and ... [con]descended to as much of the King's des[ir]ys a ... honor and contentation of his noble [mi]nd s ... he might, and therefore to ask now whethe[r he were] minded to marry Madame Elionora after ... a rupture and breach with the Emperor only in ... King's highness' virtue and your goodness ... but think it strange, and to refer ... advise of the parliament, he sa[id] * * * he should write ... was reason they should speak ... ambassadors had made this overture fo ... such qualifications as should be agree ... e for the heirs of him and of my lady Pry[ncess to]githers, and how that your Grace did not grea[tly mis]like the overture, but ye bade them put it in [writing], that ye might show it the King."
Asked him [where] upon he thought the sticking should be. He said he demanded the delivery of my la[dy Princ]ess, and the offensive league for the recovery of his children, without which he should be in marvellous uncertainty; he did not despair of the League, owing to some words of Wolsey's, and he thought the King would do what was reasonable about the Princess. "He said that ... [my lady Pri]ncess as his orators had certified h[im] * * * ... ir the Emperors a ..., n as yet uncertain, the s ... great hurt. The duke of Urbyn[o] ... army is also passed the Po ... shall be thought most beneficial ... I have been with the queen of Nava[rre, and made congra]tulations unto her of her new ma[rriage, both on the King's] highnesses behalf, and also on your [Grace's. I assure your] Grace she is marvellous affection[ate towards my lady] Princess. She showed [to] me, [that] the Ki[ng her brother], lately talking with her, did greatly commend ... her new husband the king of Navarra, sh[owing her] amongst other things that she should fy[nd him a good husband] unto her, and that taking occasion thereup[on he made] his avant that if he might be once m[arried unto my] lady Princess, whose virtues he highly [commended,] he would pass the king of Nav[arre] her [husband,] and every man else, in that point; which words showed that the King her brother did think much of my lady Princess for l ... and delighted much to talk sp ... also in his * * * ... ay fit for his p ..., ... Grace in my poor advice ... that my said lady Princesses co ... ysed that such general things co ... of princes as it shall be your pleasure t[o] ... with them, or else as they shall otherwise ... y earnestly commune and debate upon the same ... then by the way of counsel in the presence [of] my said lady Princess, which doubtless shall [be a] great quickening and breaking for her, and m[ay] serve to many purposes, specially when m[en are] enured and of their nature disposed, I dare n[ot] say therein to be ruled, but sometimes to follow women's counsel."
An ambassador has just arrived from Venice, an old man, who was ten years ago ambassador in England. He had his solemn a[udience on] ... day, and made a speech, the ma[tter] of which was almost as old as himself, congratulation for the King's deliverance "and ... de of the Holy League. Solemn mention was [made] ... of the King's highness, and also of your Gr[ace] ... de [de]liver extemporarie * * *
Pp. 4; mutilated, and in parts illegible, being much defaced.
8 Feb.
R. O.
2863. JOHN CLERK to WOLSEY.
P.S.—Langeais has arrived from Rome, who is reputed a very wise man. He brings good tidings of victories by the Pontifical troops over the Emperor's in sundry skirmishes. One of their chief men, Captain Arcon, has been wounded. The Pope will stick to the league if he have help from France, "accordingly that he met with Master Rossell at Savona." Learned this of the Legate. Will be with the King tomorrow. Poissy, 8 Feb.
Hol., p. 1. Add.. "To my lord Legate." Endd.
9 Feb.
R. O.
2864. EDW. LEE to HENRY VIII.
Though we despatched Christopher (fn. 5) on the 1 Feb., as the Emperor now sends a post with a duplicate of his letter sent by Christopher, and also for a reason we have written to my lord Legate, we have thought best to forward a duplicate of ours. Have warned the King in cipher of some things which seem important. Thinks Christopher must have mistaken the King in saying he was surprised at Lee's slackness in writing, and had heard nothing of the despatch of Echyngham. He was despatched on the 3 Dec. and promised to be with the King in 14 days. Is in agony at not hearing of his arrival; for the Emperor and his Council declared his despatch "was to the full satisfying" of the King's request. The King also says, as reported by Christopher, "that where I pretended that by France was no conveyance of letters, that your said Highness doubteth not but that all that shall be sent to your Highness shall pass in France, so that there be no fraud." Thought so himself, but had no urgent occasion to send a post. What he meant was that at other times he could not get letters conveyed by France either by John Almain or the French ambassador ; for the latter have sometimes sent his letters to St. Lucars or Bilboa to be conveyed by sea, and sometimes have sent their own in his packet to Bilboa to be conveyed to Bayonne, as the passage was stopped on both sides. Has often answered Wolsey's letters when he had nothing of sufficient importance to write to the King. Valladolid, 9 Feb.
Hol., pp. 3. Add.
9 Feb.
R. O.
2865. EDW. LEE to WOLSEY.
Has not spoken with the archbishop of Toledo, nor John Alemaigne, since sending the letter about the archbishop by Echyngham. Will get a copy of his bull, if possible, and, if Wolsey will send a transumpt of his bulls, will use them only if they can attain the money by no other means. Alemaigne says the bishop of Palentia will keep his days well. He has now paid 2,000 ducats de Camera, 1,000 for Christmas twelvemonths, and 1,000 for Midsummer, and he expects another 1,000 this month for last Christmas. 1,000 ducats de Camera are equal to 974½ ducats of Castille. Has taken 600 ducats for his diets for 100 days ended 26 Nov. This is 5l. sterling more than his diets, and he has therefore written to the prior of St. Mary Overeys to add that amount, at the rate of 4s. 6d. a ducat. Another diet day approaches, and, if Wolsey approves, will take another 600 ducats. Advises him to allow the bishop of Worcester to take his diets from the same money. Sent a bill in cipher in his letter concerning Wolsey's own business, and wishes to know his pleasure, that he and Almaigne may attend to it. Asks him to confirm his yearly gift of 2,000 ducats, which Lee has already offered to Almaigne. The bishop of Palencia would give four years' pension for the redemption. Told him he hoped Wolsey would live many four years, and that he had not so much need of ready money. Begs him to consider their common letters in cipher. Would write more boldly if he dared to write in the old ciphers, "the wiche I take for damned, bicause of the war."
Is disturbed at not hearing of Echyngham's arrival. They say here they could not write more largely to the satisfaction of the King than they have. Valedolit, 9 Feb.
Hol., pp. 3. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
9 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 36.
B. M.
2866. The CARDINALS to WOLSEY.
Complimenting him on the encouragement which he gives the King in defending the Church. Happy is the college that has such a brother and a member. Never has there been any one in past times, or in their own, who contributed more to the advancement of the Holy See, qui optimum regem in dies meliorem suis consiliis efficiat, and who watches over the See Apostolic, non tam ut filius et legatus quam ut patronus et tutor. Placed as he is at such a distance, and in the very corner of Christendom, in piety and affection to the Church he is superior to many who are much nearer. So long as Henry rules, and has such an adviser, the ship of the Church will ride safely through the storm. They are gratified that the King and Wolsey are resolved to persevere in the good cause for which they have reaped the eternal gratitude of the college. Rome, 9 Feb. 1527. Sealed by the heads of the three Orders, now lost.
Lat. Add. Endd.
9 Feb.
Calig. D. IX.
149.
B. M.
2867. DE GRA MMONT and OTHERS to DE VAULX.
Have this day arrived at Lusarche. The King urges us not to waste time till we come to you. Have only delayed as yet because some of us had been travelling (venoient de voiage), and you know time is needed to rest the horses, and prepare to cross the sea. Request him to make their apology to the King and Wolsey. Lusarche, 9 Feb. Signed: De Gramont, E. de Tarbe—De Turenne—Sr Le Viste.
Fr., p. 1. Add.: Au seigneur Jehan Jouaquim, sieur de Vaulx, ambassadeur pour le Roy en Angleterre.
10 Feb.
R. O.
2868. Jo. GIBERTO BISHOP OF VERONA to WOLSEY.
Wishes Wolsey could see the incredible joy which the King's liberality has created here. It has saved the Pope from accepting the most unjust conditions, in which he is confirmed by the coming of Russell. This last has surpassed all other favors. By these means he will have escaped from the worst tempest in which the Church has been tossed since the days of Leo. Will take care to have the bulls corrected for his college at Oxford, and the renewal of the dispensation for the dean of Wells, for whom the writer entertains a great affection, and which, he is glad to hear from Sanga who visited him at Paris, is returned on his part. Rome, 10 Feb. 1527. Signed.
Lat., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
Vit. B. IX. 46.
B. M.
2. Duplicate.
Vit. B. IV. 97.
B. M.
3. Cover of § 2, endorsed by Wriothesley "Ab episcopo Veron', the 10th of February 1527."
10 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 41.
B. M.
2869. J. B. SANGA to [WOLSEY].
Was glad to receive his letters, for he was afraid lest Wolsey would charge him with negligence in expediting the brief for Mr. Dean (of Wells), and the bulls for Oxford. Was sorry the brief was not expedited before as at first. The Pope will give orders for another to the same effect. Will take care that they are sent by the first messenger, unless it will be safer to entrust them to Russell. Expresses his gratitude for the late instance of the King's liberality in these calamitous times. Rome, 10 Feb. 1527.
Hol., Lat., pp. 2.
10 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 42.
B. M.
2870. _ to _
The Pope has received immense consolation in the midst of his distress from the liberality of the King and Wolsey. Three times 30,000 crowns would not have encouraged him more than their kind words, bidding him not fear any danger, for whether a universal peace was made, or the Emperor refused it, they would still support him. Sends copy of brief, in which the Pope has faintly endeavored to express his gratitude. The writer himself cannot express the greatness of his joy. The whole college of Cardinals are loud in their praises of Wolsey, and have written him a letter, of which he also sends a copy; and you are to add what further words you think expedient, to express their obligation, both to the King and Cardinal. They have, as it were, restored his Holiness from death to life; for he saw nothing for it before but to submit to the Emperor's discretion, but breathed again at the first news of the money sent by Henry, and was so far emboldened by the arrival of Russell that he has determined, either if peace be made sure, as he hopes, by England, or even if the Emperor oppose it (as I very much fear, considering the news from Spain of which I wrote on the 5th), to take part with the allies. Nothing would do us more good meanwhile than that either here or at Venice we should have credit (faciant creditum) for 100,000 cr. even if they were not actually advanced.
The Pope is particularly pleased at Russell's commission to the Viceroy, and will be delighted if he can obtain a suspension of hostilities without his being called on to pay money or place towns in the King's hands, even if the Emperor do the same. This will give what he most wants, time for England to conclude a peace. But if the Viceroy insists on the iniquitious conditions he demands, he trusts England will still aid him so that he be not compelled to make terms for himself with the Emperor. Perhaps, therefore, Russell will set out again after two or three days' rest; and God grant he may find the Viceroy well disposed. The Pope thinks it not the least of the King and Wolsey's acts of kindness that they have sent a man like Russell on such a mission.
You will receive with this a duplicate of the power I sent you by the last despatch. The Venetians have been written to to send the like. It will be to the great glory of the King and Wolsey if the Emperor and the Venetians be compliant as well as the French king. Some time ago the duke of Ferrara, either dissatisfied with the Imperialists, or seeing that the Pope was supported by such a strong alliance, began treating with his Holiness, who, though the Duke does not offer so large a sum of money as before, has intimated to him that he will accept his terms, viz., give up Modena, contract affinity with him, create his son Cardinal, and himself Captain of the League; for this he formerly offered to pay 200,000 crowns, but now abates it to 50,000.
The Pope has written to Salviati and the Nuncio in France not to relax their efforts for the marriage between Francis and the Princess [Mary].
The insubordination of our fort at Frosinone has given the enemy another day to withdraw in safety. They have gone to Ceperano, Pontecorvo, &c. They were excited by the hope of gain, for Pompey Colonna had told them he would make them masters of Rome. This will protract the war unless Russell has brought some good conclusion from the Viceroy. 20 Papal and Venetian galleys will be sent against Naples, with 2,000 foot, to be commanded by the sieur de Vademonte, brother of the duke of Lorraine, who is ready thus to serve the Pope without any commission from Francis. Of 30,000 [crowns ?] sent by Francis, we have scarcely had the use of 10,000; the rest being placed at the disposal of the sieur Renzo, who, though the Pope can hardly afford it, means to raise 5,000 or 6,000 fresh foot for the expedition of Aquila.
Cannot imagine what the Imperialists mean to do in Lombardy. Lately they seemed as if going to Tuscany; now they threaten Placentia. Has no doubt things will turn out better if the French do their duty, but they are wonderfully careless. They kept their fleet idle many months; "et nunc quod esset tempus opportunum ... aut in Siciliam aut in regnum, non habet aliquam commissionem ... dendi a Savona, ad hune modum sunt reliqua ipsorum auxilia." For those Swiss whom they said they were sent to hire were never ordered to come. We have now sent them a messenger either to get them to engage in war, or let us accept the best conditions we can have. You must not think us very greedy, if, in addition to England's liberality, we petition for some additional aid in our necessity.
Lat., pp. 6, mutilated.
10 Feb.
Vesp. C. IV.
33.
B. M.
2871. GHINUCCI and LEE to WOLSEY.
Despatched Chr. Mores nine days since, 1 Feb., and another man by sea, notifying that as the Emperor had not entered the town on the 22 Jan. we could obtain no audience till the 25th. Worcester explained the King's desire for the tranquility of Christendom, and asked his assistance therein, wishing his answer on certain particulars which might give the King occasion to mediate for peace and general reunion. The Emperor professed his willingness for peace, but as for the particulars he could make no answer, but if anything reasonable was offered he would declare his intentions. I said he was still a party to the treaty of Madrid, and the King hoped he would mitigate his rigor for the public good. He answered that one Bayard had lately come from France, and that he would hear him and the French resident, or else give them an answer by some other. (fn. 6) A. "Hitherto for this point."
Asked him to disclose his mind as to the state of Milan, and that it should be put in the hands of some one satisfactory to all the confederates. He said it could not be done with justice to the duke of Bourbon. On urging abstinence of war, he said he would be content with a truce for four or five years, but objected to an abstinence for various reasons. Went to the Chancellor in the afternoon, who enlarged on the Emperor's desire for peace, his instructions for that purpose to his ambassadors in England, and that he is ready to treat with the confederates. "And where we said that we thought that afore his time the French king's commission was in England, he said, somewhat smiling after his manner, B."
Continued nearly verbatim as the letter of the 31 Jan.
Gives an account of their conversation with the Chancellor, touching a guide and safe-conduct for Mores. Refused to send the French ambassador's letters by the same courier. Had a communication with the Chancellor and the Emperor. As the former is suffering from the gout, he could not go to court. "And at our being with the said Chancellor amongst other F."
The Chancellor is still ill in bed. Are inclined to think that they still lean to the last instructions sent to Mendosa. Valladolid, 10 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 10.
10 Feb.
R. O.
2872. GHINUCCI and LEE to WOLSEY.
Since their common letter, the Chancellor and De Praet have said that they required copies of their commission from the French ambassadors, and as they refused to give them, they think they are not earnest for peace. The French are not therefore allowed to dispatch any letter. Valladolid, 10 Feb. Signed.
P. 1. In Lee's handwriting. Add.
10 Feb.
R. O.
2873. GHINUCCI and LEE to _.
When some conversation rose about the peace, the Chancellor said that some astrologer had predicted that it either would not be, or would not be lasting. Allemande said to me, "The French are jeering us; we will treat them seriously. We will take the French king's sons out of the city of Burgos, and put them in a place of security." The Diet, we are told, will grant the Emperor a large sum of money for an expedition against the Turk, on condition that the Emperor does not leave them. It is thought he will accede to the demands of the Diet; and it will be satisfied, when it understands the Emperor's design in this expedition. 10 Feb.
Extract, Lat. p. 1.
10 Feb.
Vesp. C. IV. 38.
B. M.
2874. GHINUCCI and LEE.
Instructions given by the king of England to his ambassadors, urging the Emperor to peace, and offering himself as a mediator for the same. With the Emperor's answer, dated at Valladolid, 10 Feb. 1527.
Lat., pp. 3. Add. in Lee's hand to Wolsey.
11 Feb.
R. O.
2875. SIR GREGORY CASALE and RUSSELL to WOLSEY.
I. Russell, arrived at Civita Vecchia on the 4th. Remained a day and a half before I could get horses, although Andrea Doreo did what he could, and accompanied me with certain foot and hand guns. We arrived here the second day after our departure thence, and the Pope sent me a Turkey horse on which he rides himself, with another for Mr. Wyatt, and good horses for my company. These met us twelve miles from Rome. The Datary and other gentlemen met me two miles from the city, and would have lodged me in the palace, but I declined the honor, as the ambassadors of other princes, who came on a like message, were not so lodged. The Datary said the King had done more for the Pope than any other prince; nevertheless, I went for that night to Sir Gregory de Casale's, who also met me four or five miles outside Rome. Next morning was sent for by the Datary to come to the Pope, and declared to him the good mind borne towards him by the King and Wolsey. The Pope said he was more bound to the King than to any other prince, "and rejoiced more that the king's Highness sent him than though any other prince had sent him 200,000 ducats." The city is also much pleased with this sending, and every one says the King has shown himself a real Defender of the Faith. Thinks he never spent money more to his honor. It is no wonder that the Pope was in great fear, for the Viceroy came in great force, and made as high demands as if he had had the Pope prisoner. Besides it is known that there are 7,000 Spaniards living here.
According to Wolsey's advice his Holiness is sending a commission to his ambassadors in England for the treaty of peace, which he puts entirely in Wolsey's hands, who, he thinks, will regard his honor as his own. If there be no suspension of arms, the Pope says he will prosecute the war bravely, to the utmost of his power. He has sold all his patrimony, and as much as he could sell belonging to the Church. He has also written to Francis for the marriage of my lady Princess, as advised by Wolsey, and told the French ambassador here that if the French king did not consent to the marriage, he would be obliged to make peace with the Emperor. The ambassador has accordingly written to his master, urging him to conclude the match. Russell, according to his instructions, offered to the Pope to go to the Viceroy, and persuade him to a cessation of arms; but the Viceroy has withdrawn, and the Pope says his men will pursue him, so that he expects the Viceroy will be fain to speak first, for all his brags. Have urged the Datary and the count de Carpi, the French ambassador here, to send 2,000 men, who are now here, with 20 galleys to Terrezyn, which is between him and Gaeta, so as to surround him. The Imperialists have taken prisoner Jeronimo Morron, and made him pay 20,000 ducats for his ransom, then took him prisoner again, and offered to cut off his head if he did not pay 20,000 more. He agreed, and has given his eldest son in hostage.
Finds the Pope conformable to the articles in his instructions, and has delivered him the money. He says he has found what friendship England bears him, by his necessity. The Datary speaks very highly of Wolsey, and rides about the town with Russell for recreation, which he does with no other stranger, and calls himself one of Wolsey's servants. Is marvellously well treated at the palace, where he lies at the Pope's cost. Many Spaniards have been slain at the late conflict, most of whom were circumcised. Signor Ranse arrived here tonight from the camp, and told the Pope that the Viceroy had divided his army among three of the Pope's towns on the confines of Naples, he himself retiring to another, called Pount Corve. Ranse offers to go with 5,000 or 6,000 men towards a city called Laquela, in the country of Brusse, where he has many friends among the inhabitants, and those banished from Naples. From thence he can go on to Naples, and compel the Viceroy to retire. For this he requires 20,000 ducats out of 30,000 which the French king sent by one Roba Dangieu. Meanwhile, the Pope will maintain his army against the Viceroy, in trust of what Russell has told him. He thinks it unnecessary for Russell to go to Bourbon, who can do nothing without the Viceroy, nor the duke of Ferrara either. Russell told the duke of Ferrara's ambassador this day that he had letters from the King to his master, and was commissioned to speak with him, but could not pass through Lombardy on account of the danger of the roads; that the Duke had better look to his affairs, as the King would be sorry to see him fall into any danger; and that if he would refer his dispute with the Pope to Henry's arbitration it would be better for him than maintaining it by arms. The Ambassador said that his master had been fain to come to terms with the Emperor, as neither the Pope nor the French king had invited him to enter the League. There have been communications between the Pope and the Ambassador for the delivery of Modena, but they came to nothing. The Ambassador says the Duke would be glad to enter the League, if he could honorably part from the Emperor. Russell told him he might well do so, as the Emperor had not kept all his promises to him. Thinks an end might soon be made between them. He and Sir Gregory have talked to the Pope about it. Has endeavored to find out whom the Pope would like to have the duchy of Milan, and thinks both he and the Venetians are in favor of Francis Forceulx (Sforza). It is said that M. de Vaudemont came here to have the Pope's niece, whom the duke of Albany is laboring to get for the king of Scots, and the duke of Ferrara for his son. Russell suggested to Sir Gregory that she would be a meet marriage for my lord of Richmond; and they both hinted it to the Datary, who thought the Pope would be well inclined to it, though they told him they had no commission to speak about it.
The Pope has been often urged in his necessity to make cardinals, but he would never consent to it, saying they were not his friends who advised him so. Russell, however, spoke to him in favor of the Datary, the Nuncios, and my lord of Worcester; on which he said that he made no cardinals, but if he should happen to do so, he would be glad to carry out Wolsey's wishes.
Would have arrived at Rome much sooner, but that he lost 13 days at Paris and Savona, as mentioned in his former letters. Rome, 11 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 6. Add. Endd.
Vit. B. IX. 47.
B. M.
2. Duplicate.
11 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. VI. 563.
2876. RUSSELL to HENRY VIII.
Arrived here on the 6th. Gives an account of his reception, and of his declining to be lodged in the palace for fear of creating jealousy. Lodged with Gregory Casale. Had next day an interview with the Pope, who expressed more joy at what your Highness had sent him than if any other prince had sent him 200,000 ducats. He is in great fear, considering that the Viceroy is coming with a great company, making as high demands as if the Pope were his prisoner. Rance (Renzo) arrived this night from the camp, and intends to go to Brusse. Vaudemont's coming was to marry the Pope's niece, but Albany wishes her for the king of Scots. Sir Gregory and I thought her a fit marriage for my lord of Richmond, and so told the Datary. Would be glad of Wolsey's opinion on the subject. Rome, 11 Feb. Signed.
Add. Endd.
11 Feb.
Lettere
di Principi,
II. 53 b.
2877. BALDASSAR CASTIGLIONE, [Nuncio in Spain,] to GAMBARA.
Wishes to know whether he has the cipher which the prothonotary De Casale had. Might have occasion to write to Gambara in that manner, though at present the negotiations here are conducted with great publicity. Valladolid, 11 Feb. 1527.
Ital.
11 Feb.
R. O.
2878. The DUKE OF RICHMOND to JAMES V.
Is glad to hear of his health. Understanding from Magnus his desire for three or four couple of hounds for hunting the fox, and a couple "fit for the lyam," that will sit on horseback behind men, sends ten couple that he has tried, and with them Nicholas Eton, his "yeman hunte," who will remain a month to show the mode of hunting. Has no "lyam" hounds of the kind he wishes at present, but will send some when he can obtain them. Pountefract Castle, 11 Feb.
Copy, p. 1.
ii. Magnus to James V.
On the same subject. James's letters, dated Edinburgh, 8 Jan., were only delivered here on the 5 Feb. inst.
Copy, p. 1.
iii. Magnus to Queen Margaret.
On the same subject. Is glad to hear she is with her son, and hopes she will promote unity among the Lords. The King her brother, the Queen, the Princess, my lord Legate, and other nobles of the Court are in good health, and merry. There are now at court ambassadors from the Pope, the Emperor, the French king, the Venetians, the potentates of Italy; and there is coming a new solemn embassy from Almayn, and another as solemn or greater from France. It is even thought the French king will come to England, for which great preparations are made in London, and that all Christian princes will make Henry arbiter of their differences.
Copy, pp. 2.
11 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 50.
B. M.
2879. RUSSELL to [WOLSEY].
Has spoken with the Pope for the reformation of Wolsey's bulls. Showed him it was the goodliest college in Christendom; at which he was very glad. Will send the bulls shortly, with Master Dean of Wells' expedition. As to the charge of negligence against Casale, has examined the minutes sent by Wolsey, and finds them full of faults in the names of the churches and dioceses. Has also spoken with the writer, who says he never examined bulls better in his life. He is the best and surest writer of all Italy, and he is much grieved that Wolsey should attribute any fault to him.
Sir Gregory has never been well since he heard of Wolsey's displeasure. He is quite innocent; has done the King great service, "for, and he had not been, as other ambassadors hath showed me here, the Pope's Holiness had made his way long agone; insomuch that at the Viceroy's repair hitherwards the bruit was here that he was the occasion of the Pope's destruction; for that his Holiness did not before make his way with the Emperor."
Was visited by an ambassador from Bourbon, saying that he took Russell for one of the Duke's great friends. I said I had letters from the King and Wolsey, but could not go to him on account of the war in Lombardy; that the King and Wolsey favored him very well, and when he had proved his friends, none would do more for him. Urged him for his own sake to have good peace. Told the man he had something to say to his master, "whereof he should be glad." He replied that Bourbon and the Viceroy would willingly leave it in Russell's hands. "Then I said it was too great a matter for me to meddle withal; notwithstanding, I would move the Pope of it, and see what might be done in it, and that I would do no thing but it should be both for his honor and profit; so that he would not march with his army to tempt no new enterprise." Hopes by these means to delay Bourbon's movements. Rome, 12 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 2.
12 Feb.
R. O.
2880. H. DUKE OF RICHMOND to [HENRY VIII.]
Wishes the bearer, Robt. Markeham, yeoman usher of his chamber, preferred to the offices of bailiff and keeper of Torpell town and park, lately given him by the King,—an appointment now held by John Brede, a man far advanced in age. Has not hitherto had a chance of preferring any of his servants, and wishes Henry would send letters missive to John Brede, desiring him to allow Markeham to be joint patentee with him. Pomfret, 12 Feb.
Hol., p. 1. Endd.
R. O. 2. Modern copy.
12 Feb.
R. O.
2881. DUKE OF RICHMOND.
Writ of supersedeas addressed to the duke of Richmond, high admiral, Arthur viscount Lisle, vice-admiral, for deciding a case between Peter Weldank, of London, brewer, and John Palmer, of Maldon, merchant, concerning a contract within the city of London, contrary to the statute 15 Ric. II. Westm., 12 Feb. 18 Hen. VIII.
Lat.
12 Feb. 2882. ST. PETER'S and ST. HILDA'S, WHITBY.
Petition by William Johnson, prior, for a congé d'élire on the death of Tho. Yorke, late abbot, who died on the 25 Jan. last; presented by Wm. Clarkson and John Hexham. Dated 23 Jan. 1526.
Docketed: "Teste," 12 Feb.
13 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. VI. 565.
2883. LEE to HENRY VIII.
The Emperor has sent to his ambassador in England the answer given by him to the confederates. It seems by Bayard's words that it is not pleasant, and no peace will ensue. On the 12th, John Alemaigne sent the answer to our requests on your behalf, which is (enclosed) in our common letter to Wolsey. It is general, for they trust that the particulars will be disclosed by Inigo. The Dolphin and his brother have been taken from Burgos further inland, and their French attendants dismissed. The prince of Navarre is said to be making warlike preparations. Valladolid, 13 Feb.
Hol. Add.
13 Feb.
R. O.
2884. GHINUCCI and LEE to WOLSEY.
To the same effect. As there are some doubtful points in the Emperor's reply, we shall consult the Chancellor tomorrow. Valladolid, 13 Feb. Signed.
Pp. 2. In Lee's hand. Add.
14 Feb.
R. O.
St. P. IV. 464.
2885. MAGNUS to WOLSEY.
Sends two letters he received lately from the king of Scots and the Queen, asking him to send James some hounds. Believes the messenger was sent to observe the duke of Richmond's household, "bruited in Scotland" of right high estimation, though even when Magnus was with him the young King was very desirous to have hounds, "and such a person as well couth blow an horn." The Duke, as warden of the Marches, thought it right to send ten couple of his own hounds. Sends copy of his letter, and two of his own to the King and Queen. Has also written to the good bishop of Aberdeen and other friends, especially to the archbishop of St. Andrew's, hoping that peace would be promoted among the Lords by him, and by the Queen's being with her son.
The clerk of Green Cloth sent here by the King is dead. The Council, as they informed Wolsey by Dr. Tate, thought they had brought this house into good order before Magnus came. They and the clerk asserted the weekly expence, besides wages, fees and liveries, was not more than 25l. a week, but Magnus proved it was above 50l. His anxieties about this were the cause of his death, and the Council now consent that Magnus shall put the charges in order. Hopes to inform Wolsey before Easter how it may be done. Has been unwell since he came. There is good rule on all three borders, with redress on both sides, except for Liddesdaill, where the delay has been satisfactorily explained by Angus to Sir Will. Eures, vice-warden of the Middle marches. Pountefret, 14 Feb. Signed.
Add.
14 Feb.
Vit. B. IX. 51.
B. M.
2886. ALPHONSO DUKE OF FERRARA.
i. The Duke of Ferrara to D. Matthæus.
Has received with his letters of the 8th the form of the conditions sent by order of the Pope. Is to make his respects to the Pope and express the writer's astonishment at the conditions proposed, tanquam de re inexpectata. Details the conditions on which he had agreed to serve the Pope. Cannot, without a stain upon his honor, change his word, or incur the charge of desertion. If he had cause for leaving with safety of his honor, would comply with the Pope's wishes, and show his devotion. Ferrara, 14 Feb. 1527.
Lat., pp. 2, mutilated.
ii. Same to Same.
An express to him from the Duke of Bourbon asking his advice about laying siege to Piacenza. Has dissuaded it, since, although they have allowed time for fortifying Florence and Bologna, they are not in a condition to resist a siege. Gives other reasons for this opinion. Matthew shall say that the writer has steadily refused great offers made him by the Pope. The Viceroy will know by this the service done by the writer to the Emperor. Complains of don Hugo. Has no inclination to accept propositions sent by an express of Guicciardino. Ferrara, 14 Feb. 1527.
When you tell N. the conditions proposed by the Pope, you are strictly to adhere to what has been offered. If he has got an inkling that you have had a secret interview with the Pope, you must take care to act in such a way as to remove his suspicions.
Lat., pp. 3, mutilated.
14 Feb.
R. O.
Rym. XIV.
234.
2887. FRANCIS SFORZA, DUKE OF MILAN.
Commission to Augustine Scarpinelli, to conclude a peace, in which the Emperor, the king of England, the doge of Venice, and the republic of Florence are to be included. Cremona, 14 Feb. 1527.
Lat.
15 Feb.
R. O.
2888. EXCHEQUER.
Tellers' account of the Exchequer, showing:—
1. The receipts for 1 year, Mich. 17 to Mich. 18 Hen. VIII., from sheriffs and escheators, customers and other officers; total 14,262l. 7s. Of the above revenue, 6,396l. 10s. was delivered to Sir Hen. Wyatt in bonds; 6,642l. 12s. paid in wages to officers of the receipt. The balance is charged upon Sir John Cutte, deceased, under-treasurer of England, John Myllett, deceased, and Jo. Hasylwod, Hen. Everard, Rob. Fowler and Will. Gonson, tellers.
2. Receipts from Mich. 18 to 15 Feb. 18 Hen. VIII., 6,544l. 4s. 1d.; of which 1,193l. 13sd. was applied in payment of wages in arrear to the King's servants at the former date. Names given, with the amount (half a year's wages) due to each.
Pp. 21.

Footnotes

  • 1. Sic.
  • 2. See Hall's Chronicle in this year.
  • 3. Russell.
  • 4. Apparently one leaf or more lost.
  • 5. Chr. Mores.
  • 6. See No. 2828 (2).