Henry VIII: October 1528, 11-20

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: October 1528, 11-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 4, 1524-1530, (London, 1875) pp. 2089-2103. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol4/pp2089-2103 [accessed 24 April 2024]

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October 1528

11 Oct.
R.O.
4835. SIR CHR. DACRE and GEOFFREY LANCASTER to the DUKE OF RICHMOND.
Received his letters on Saturday at quarter sessions,—the one touching riots committed by lord Dacre's tenants, the other touching those between Sir Will. Pennyngton and Thos. Dykes. Declared to the inquest impannelled by the sheriff the causes according to the bills in both cases. The inquest sat all day till 8 p.m., and would give no verdict, so we left them in the sheriff's custody till they should make up their minds; but they departed without leave into the town, and next morning at the Mute hall we found only six or seven of them. Could get no satisfactory explanation from the sheriff. Asked those present if they were agreed upon a verdict; but they were not, and gave none till noon, when Sir Christopher had to go, as he had to keep my lord Legate's court and sheriff's turn at Hexham next day. At 1 they gave in their verdict to Geoffrey Lancaster. Copies enclosed. Carlisle, 11 Oct. Signed.
P.1. Add.
ii. Indictment against Thos. Dacre, of Nawartt, Cumb., and 101 other persons, named, for a riot committed at Carlisle, at the instigation of Will. lord Dacre, on 21 July 20 Hen. VIII., when they broke into a meadow called Swyft medoy, in the tenure of Sir Thos. Clifford, and attacked eleven of his servants, whose names are given. Signed by Sir C. Dacre and Lancaster.
Lat., pp.2, large paper.
iii. Indictment against Will. Threlkeld, of Burgh upon the Sands, Cumb., bailiff of the same, and 140 others, named, for a riotous meeting at Stanxx (Stanwix), at the instigation of Will. lord Dacre, on the 25 Aug. 20 Hen. VIII., when some of their number crossed to Swyft Hyll to a place in the tenure of Nich. Denton of Carlisle, and assaulted his wife Margaret, and three of his servants, named. Signed as above. In margin: Billa vera.
Lat., pp.2, large paper. Endd.: Copies of the indictments within the county of Cumberland.
iv. Indictment against the above Will. Threlkeld, and twenty-three others, named, for a riot at Swyft Hyll, committed at the instigation of lord Dacre, 7 Sept. 20 Hen. VIII., when they assaulted Gerard and Thos. How, sons of Ric. How, of Carlisle, and took the said Thos. prisoner to Naward castle.
Lat.
v. Indictment against Will. Threlkeld, and seven others, named, for a riot committed 31 Aug. 20 Hen. VIII. at Carlisle, when they broke into the house of Nicholas Denton, carried off grain to the value of 10s., and assaulted Geo. Haysty, his servant. Signed as before.
Lat. This and the preceding are on one large sheet of paper.
vi. Indictment against Ric. Sewell, of Blakell, and thirteen others, named, for a riot instigated by lord Dacre, at le Garthes, in Bochardgaytt feld, Cumb., on the 24 Aug. 20 Hen.VIII., when they assaulted Ric. How, servant of Sir Thos. Clifford, and took him prisoner to Nawartt castle.
Lat.
vii. Indictment against Ric. Sewell, of Blakell, and nine others, named, for a riot committed at lord Dacre's instigation, 9 Sept. 20 Hen. VIII., at Over Cuerok, when they assaulted Rob. Sanderson, of Upryghtby, and took him prisoner to Nawartt castle. Signed as before.
Lat. This and the preceding are on one large sheet of paper.
viii. Indictment against Nich. Denton, and thirteen others, for a riot at Swyft Hyll, near Carlisle, 25 Aug. 20 Hen. VIII., when they assaulted John Calvert, of Carlisle, weaver, and John Heythryngam, of Rychargait, and drove the former to Carlisle in fear of his life. Signed as before.
Lat., p.1.
12 Oct.
Vit.B.x.113.B.M.
4836. JOHN CASALE, the Prothonotary, to WOLSEY.
Has been unable to write, from the scarcity of couriers. Trani, Barletta and Monopoli remain subject to the Venetians; and, as his brother Francesco, captain of the cavalry there, writes, can be easily kept, for the Imperialists are too few to attack them. The Signory are preparing to send assistance by sea. News came today that Renzo had arrived at Senegaglia. The Signory will send ships as soon as they can sail. It is reported that St. Pôl is at Genoa with his army. He asked the city to surrender, but the citizens replied that they wished to preserve their freedom. He was unable to besiege, as his army was reduced by desertion, and so departed.
The last letters from France state that the King had agreed with the ambassadors of the Allies that 25,000 foot, 800 men at arms, and 1,500 light horse should be kept in Italy this winter,—10,000 in the kingdom of Naples, and the rest in Lombardy. The King promises to pay 10,000. The same number are to be immediately levied for Naples,—3,000 by him, 4,000 by the Florentines, and 3,000 by the Venetians. The Florentine ambassador told Casale that they would willingly provide the number assigned; but Visconti, who is at Florence in the name of the French king, says that 2,000, with 100 horse, would be enough. The Venetians will send 800 foot; the rest are already in Apulia. Visconti has wages for his own men. St. Pôol wrote to the Florentines to retain the infantry for certain reasons. The Florentines wrote to the Venetians not to send their ships so soon; by which they now excuse their slowness.
The ambassador of king John of Hungary tells him that the ambassadors sent to France have obtained a promise of 100,000 gold pieces, and the King has written to the Signory to ask them to assist. One of the ambassadors is going to England. King John is on his frontier, and with a little help could do great harm to Ferdinand.
The son of the duke of Ferrara will act as captain general of the Florentines.
Sends a copy of a letter from his brother, who is with the Pope. His brother, the knight (Gregory), is going to Our Lady of Loretto after his illness. Venice, 12 Oct. 1528. Signed.
Lat., pp.3. Add. Endd.
12 Oct.
R.O.
4837. JOHN CHEKYNGE to CROMWELL.
Gregory and the rest of your scholars are in good health, and getting on well in learning. Are now in Cambridge, the University being free from sickness. Have been long in the country, where they had country fare, and paid well for it, with simple lodging. Desires him to send, for Gregory, to keep him from the cold this winter, five yards of marble frieze for a "galberdyne," for Christopher nine yards, and for Nich. Sadler seven yards; also a bed and a pair of sheets. Pembroke Hall in Cambridge, 12 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Maister Thomas Crumwell, beside the Augustyne Freyrs in London.
12 Oct.
R. O.
4838. SIR JOHN NEVEYLL, Sheriff of Yorkshire, to WOLSEY.
Asks Wolsey to help him to retain the office for another year, as his expences were so heavy last year in consequence of the dearth. The duke of Richmond's council, the justices of assize, and Wolsey's servants can inform Wolsey of his demeanor. "From the Chett," 12 Oct.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my [lord C]ardnall gud graice. Endd.
12 [Oct. ?]
R. O.
4839. T. MAGNUS to [CROMWELL].
"... u[n]to youe ... And [for] somyche as ... being fatte doth fall ... he canne not contynue ... to be devided, the oone ... the other halve to be ... that Sir John Houseman ... good cher made unto ... for thair parte and ... good ale, pigeons and ... to commaunde me to ... [y]ong shovellards may ... [t]ymes in case thay shall ... geven unto thaym. ... arke besides guttes and ... oos the said shovellards ... [sho]vellards to reasoorte and ... that this thing wer ... hider. ... for tenne pounde moor ... and the other for the ... Cawsay ther coustide ... te purchase with myn ... e repairing and ... and to spare money ... ecte thenne the laste ... litle ... nd mought have doon ... clied to some good [e]ffecte. At that ... and not mete to have spared so myche ... good and a grete acte with some further ... doon with the same. Sory I am that I ... tune craving, requeste and desir of ... er cometh to noe better purpoos. Yf ... for the said Cawsay, it shalbe doon by ... soe light an oppynyon as I have ... [wi]sdome or discretion.
... the said buk. I had lever thay were ... ther shulde be any suche withynne my ... that shulde be thoccasion of that disseas and ... [su]che as it is, that thay be not well stirred ... ous and specially at the begynnyng of the ... n myche from eding and sleping in the ... [c]anne moor at large shewe unto youe. This ... or els ther wolbe noe remedy. This ... places for saving of der, specially with myche ... ye well. At Sherefhooton, the 12th ... ase provide that the timber ordeyned ... led, with drawne, nor taken away, and as to ... to lye ther, notwithstanding I remitte that to ... en in that behalve. Your owne. T. Magnus."
P. 1. More than half lost by mutilation. Signed.
P. S. on the back "... the said buk to Thomas Gibon ... to make cher to my neighbors."
12 Oct. 4840. The MONASTERY OF NOTLEY.
i. Writ to the escheator of Beds and Bucks for restitution of the temporalities on the election of Robert Brice, late prior of Burcestre, vice John Marston, the last abbot, deceased; the fealty of the new abbot being ordered to be taken by John London, clerk. Westminster, 12 Oct.
ii. Similar writs for cos. of Oxford, Lincoln, Hants and Middlesex.
Pat. 20 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 1.
[13 Oct.]
Vit. B. X. 160. B. M. Pocock, I. 181.
4841. The DIVORCE.
Notarial attestation made in the presence of Cuthbert bishop of London, John bishop of Ely, John bishop of Bath and Wells, and Robert Shirton, S.T.P., by William Claiburgh and John Talkern, that Katharine of Arragon promises to send to Spain for the original brief concerning her marriage with the King. Greenwich, 1528, 5 Clement VII., "mense ... [tert]ia decima."
Lat., vellum, mutilated.
R. O. 4842. The DIVORCE.
"A divise to be gyven to the Quenis grace by hyr cownsellours."
Have delivered the copies of the bull and brief concerning the marriage to the King. The brief cannot be found in the treasury, and is considered a forgery. The copy will be of no advantage when the process begins; and she must endeavour to obtain the original, which is in the Emperor's custody. They advise her to write to the Emperor to send the original, telling him that the King will send to receive it at Bayonne; the want of it may ruin her cause, and endanger the inheritance of her child; that a lawful copy made by some judge or bishop will be as useful to him as the original, but nothing can serve her purpose so well, as it is a common instrument of the King and herself, and that she has promised to exhibit it in three months,—which failing, sentence will probably be delivered against her.
If it appears that she has not done what she ought to do to obtain the brief, it will be imputed greatly to her hindrance. They themselves would consider they ought to act as if no such brief had been spoken of.
Advises her to ask the Emperor's ambassador, from whom she had the copy, to write to the Emperor also, and say, if he refuse, the Queen will ask the Pope for compulsories and other reminders. In order that the King may not have cause to think that she intends any frivolous delay, she should depose before a notary that she intends to use all possible means and diligence to recover the brief, wherever it be, and that, to her knowledge, it is in Spain, and nowhere else.
Pp. 10. Endd.
13 Oct.
R. O.
4843. THOMAS BYRD, Priest, to CROMWELL.
Reminds him of the 5 mks. of his pension which is behind from Lady Day, and that he promised him, his uncle and son, to get him the patent for the pension. Hears that my lord of Salisbury is come to London, and one word to him will be enough. Will lose his pension if the bishop is translated by the vacation of Winchester, unless he has his patent. Sends the copy of his writ, and the patent that his predecessor had. The benefice of Boscombe was given to one of the chapel five weeks before it was void. Hynxsey Hall, Oxford, 13 Oct.
Another half year expired at Michaelmas last.
Hol., p. 1. Add.: To, &c., Mr. Thos. Cromwell, dwelling by the Friars Augustines in London. Endd.
13 Oct.
Vit. B. X. 114*. B. M.
4844. ITALY.
Extract from letters of Paul Casale, dated Rome, 13 Oct.
Confirmation has arrived of the report that captain Simon Romanus had defeated the count Burelle in Calabria, killing 1,500 Spaniards whom he had brought from Sicily, and taking him prisoner. The Venetians have sent money to raise cavalry.
Lat., in Vannes' hand, p. 1.
14 Oct.
Cal. D. X. 360. B. M.
4845. TAYLER to BRIAN TUKE.
"Right worshipful and my singular loving friend, [after most hearty] commendations, I thank you for your friendly and ky[nd letter, which bears] date the 6th of Oct., and came to my hands the 9th [of this present,] delivered by Thadeus, the which hath used very [great diligence] and departed in post incontinent after his letter delivered [by the which] I was marvellously comforted, and if I could recognize [in myself] any of those qualities, the which you so accumulate [upon me,] I would be very joyous. You write discreet, substancia[l] ... diligent, and circumspect. If there had remained [any way] whereby a man might be brought into a foles p[aradize] you would not have left it behind, but would [have discovered every] one of these things in me, the which you of your go[od nature impute] unto me, whereby you bind me for ever, so fully and ... [to] certify me of such things as I was desirous to [know] of. And no man know better to do it than you [by virtue of] your authority and place. And to these great bonds and ... yet you have added a great hope and accumulation p ... so heartily to be friendly to me in the authority of your off[ice concer]nyng my diets, the which cause I heartily commend [unto you; sed] de his hactenus.
"And whereas you write that you had in co[mmandment] to show unto me somewhat of the cause of T[addeo his] coming, according to your writing and tenor of th[e same] the morrow I went to Fonten de Blewe, where th[e King and] Madame was returned from Blese, were with both ... which there speaking after commendations made of th[e King's] highness and my lord Cardinal's grace behalf ... declared and showed the great cordial affe[ction and] good mind they had to the affairs of France ... that they had sent a post in great diligence ... [to] recover Andreas Doria, if it were po[ssible] ... to the King such promises as should ... Andrewe. The King told me that he will s[end word of] all things that the King our master promiseth ... and that he had offered aforetime as much to [the said Andreas] as he could desire. And because other letters I had ... from you, therefore an answer I write to you, desiring [you to] certify my lord's Grace of the same, thinking not best ... (both for lack of news, and because also the bishop [of Bayonne] hath writ unto the Grand Master all the said ma[tters, who is] writing to him answer of all things which he shall de[clare unto my] lord's Grace,) to trouble my said lord's Grace with any [letter] at this time, whom, as soon as any news shall occ[ur or] happen worth writing, I shall with diligence certify [thereof]. The King was very desirous to have known some ty[dings] of the cardinal Campegeus coming, and the Gr[and] Master covetous to hear what news came out of Sp[ain since] the last letters, for hither cometh nothing out of Spay[n] ... I pray you send this letter to my priest at the Rolls. Th[us God] have you in his keeping. From Meldune, four leagues from Fonten de Blewe, in haste, the 14th of Oct. 1528; wh[ere I] am commanded to get me a lodging to be nigh the Court."
Signed. Add.
14 Oct.
R. O. St. P. II. 143.
4846. P. EARL OF OSSORY to WOLSEY.
On the arrival of the lord of Kilmainham with the King's letters, instructions and commissions, was invading the earl of Desmond. Left part of his retinue to defend his lands, and went with the other to the Pale. Oconour has made several invasions of the Pale with Kildare's brethren and adherents, and attempted to stop Ossory's coming. These practices have been devised by Kildare, thinking that he will necessarily be sent home as his father was, when his brethren and kinsmen made war. The King's subjects in the Pale, seeing that Kildare and his father have been pardoned and set in authority after committing high offences, bear allegiance to him, trusting that he will come again and rule. Showed this when in England, and it might have been prevented if his desires had been followed. Drogheda, 14 Oct. Signed.
Add.: To my lord Legate's good grace. Endd.
14 Oct.
R. O. St. P. II. 144.
4847. LORD JAMES BUTLER to WOLSEY.
Thanks him for his letters expressing the King's confidence in his service. Has certified the perverse and heinous demeanour of the brethren and adherents of the earl of Kildare, to the sore decay and impoverishing of the King's true subjects. Considers himself unequal to the charge committed to him by the King, to execute all exploits and journeys upon the King's rebels, in consequence of the smallness of his revenues, his youth, and lack of experience, and the certainty of high malice being borne him. Asks for assistance. Desires credence for Robert Cowley and the prior of Kilmainham, the bearer. Dublin, 14 Oct. Signed.
Add.: To my lord Legate's good grace. Endd.
15 Oct.
R. O.
4848. THOS. WYNTER to WOLSEY.
Hampton, the bearer, will tell him all about Wynter's affairs and the house. Has before written of his great desire to please Wolsey. Expresses his great obligations to Lupset. There is a report that Wolsey is displeased with him, which has grieved both of them very much. Could not bear to be separated from him. Has before written, and Hampton will tell Wolsey of the trouble Cyprianus the Italian has taken in teaching him. Paris, id. Oct.
Lat., Hol., pp. 2. Add.: R., &c., card. Ebor. Angliæ primati Sedis Apostolicæ a latere Legato, &c. Endd.
15 Oct.
Vesp. C. IV. 260*. B. M.
4849. LEE to TUKE.
Mr. Silvester writes now the uttermost that he can get from the Emperor, which is much the same as they sent by the bishop of Pistoja on Sept. 30, and by sea. The Emperor desires particular peace with the King before any treaty of universal peace, saying that then the King may, if he likes, mediate for the universal peace, but Darius could not tell whether he meant with the condition mentioned by Alemand, that the particular peace is to be of no effect if the universal peace does not follow. Darius told the Emperor that he seemed to fall from the universal peace. He answered there is no mediator. Cannot tell whether Alemand spoke with authority when he mentioned that condition. As they are always speaking of the divorce, desires instructions thereupon if it is mentioned during the negotiations. Thinks a good answer would be that the King does not act from displeasure towards the Queen or any other private cause, but only for the discharge of his conscience, and that he will not be his own judge, but will follow the judgment of the Church. Does not think the Emperor can reasonably reply to this. To express ignorance or dissemble would increase evil opinion, and perhaps hinder the treaty. Haste should be made, for they are raising men here, though for what purpose he does not know, but the Emperor's journey to Italy is commonly spoken of. Two new councillors have been appointed for the Queen, the archbishop of Toledo, who is never away from her, and the count of Miranda, her chamberlain, brother of Don Ynigo, the ambassador in England. 15 Oct. 1528.
Hol., p. 1. Cipher, deciphered by Tuke. Add. Endd.
15 Oct.
Harl. MS. 421, f. 34. B. M.
4850. HERESY.
Examination of a heretic, not named.
15 Oct.—About four years ago was contracted to Joan, daughter of one Dyer of Fynchenfeld, now dead, who taught him the 1st chapter of James. One Quyntyne, butcher of Coggeshall, now dead, taught him the 2nd chapter of James, and erroneous opinions about the Sacrament of the Altar, pilgrimages, images, and fasting. Worked at Bumstede at Towre, with John Tyball, who read Paul's Epistles and the Evangelists to him, and taught him heresy. Went with Sir Richard Fox, John Tyball, John Smyth of Bumstede, friar Topley, and friar Gardyner, to the house of one Gilbert, shipwright, where they read the New Testament and talked of heresies. They also met at Bowre Hall, Mother Bocher's, and Mother Charte's, where sometimes Fox, or the respondent, or John Smyth, would read the New Testament in English, in presence of them and their households. John Smyth, of Redeswell, also resorted there, but "he saith he never heard speak of any manner of opinions." About a year ago last Whitsuntide, being in London with John Tyball, went to friar Baron at the Friars Augustines, to buy New Testaments. Found him reading the New Testament to a young gentleman, with a chain round his neck. Tyball told him Sir Richard Fox was well learned and would do well, and asked him to write him a letter. Does not remember what was in it. Each of them bought a New Testament for 3s. Kept it until the Sunday before last Mid Lent. Read it in the houses of Roger, a tanner of Bures, Gyfford, Bower Hall, Mother Bocher's, and Mother Charte's, and at last sold it to Fox.
Sentence given:—"Quod citra septimam in quodam die festo, offeret cereum unius libræ imagini Beatæ Mariæ et quod jejunet quinque diebus Veneris in pane et aqua in honore Quinque Vulnerum citra festum Paschæ. Et proficiscatur peregre in abbatiam de Ipiswico citra festum Purificationis. Septem spalmos (sic) penitentiales et quinquies spalterium Beatæ Mariæ."
Pp. 3. Contemporary foliation, cccclx–i.
16 Oct.
Le Grand, III. 169.
4851. DU BELLAY to MONTMORENCY.
Wrote on the 6th of the arrival of Campeggio, which did not take place next day in the way expected, for he was so tormented with gout that he could not endure to be borne in his litter. He was taken to Suffolk's lodging, and next day passed secretly by water to the bishop of Bath's, where he is at present confined to his bed. Wolsey has paid him three visits, and had on each occasion a long conversation with him. Knows not what will be the issue. Expects that those who manage this business will have to use all their understanding to conquer the difficulty. Those of this country talk plentifully, but if that be the only obstacle they will go on, for the whole thing is well arranged. A good number of the lords of the kingdom are assembled here, and shortly there will be others, more than have been seen for a long time, and it will not be the fault of the one party if the affair is not despatched very soon. The other makes such cheer as she has always done in her greatest triumphs, nor could one perceive anything, looking at the two together, and to this hour they have but one bed and one table. I have been to see Campeggio, who is much gratified by his reception in France, and speaks wonders of the Pope and his good will, not forgetting to speak about Ravenna and Cervia.
Received on Wednesday morning the packets of my lord of Bath, sent me by the bailly. I sent them to him, and went to him yesterday to learn what he had to say about the contribution, about which I am much vexed to see the despatch dragged on to this hour, after having written so long ago that the affair was ready. More than four times since my last letters I have sent to Wolsey for an audience, but have been quite unable to obtain it. This I showed to my lord of Bath in as gentle manner as I could, and he has promised to represent the matter to Wolsey, and get me an answer by Sunday. He excuses the delay by the great complication of affairs at present, which will in that time be a little cleared up.
"Or, Monseigneur, il fault que je vous en dye ma fantaisye, la chose estant baillée pour preste de maniere que je pensoye dedans deux jours toucher deniers, Maistre Bryant va venir, dict que pour affaires de consequence, et mesmes pour mettre sur le bureau nouvelles deliberations et entreprises, Montpezat devoyt bientost venir decza." From that time, although I did not at once perceive it, I have been continually put off. I know what they want to do, but I think they will try to put off till Montpezat's arrival, that they may always have some excuse to put before you, and, if asked to grant anything for the future, may always pay you with present things. I have warned you sometimes, when sending a gentleman hither, not to notify it so long before; and for this I had my reasons, for I have found by experience it only makes the despatch of business more difficult.
As to news from Spain, my lord of Bath says no answer has yet been made to the offers of Silvester, which are the first he had to propose, but that the Emperor continually puts him off for want of leisure to read them. At the very time that Silvester was writing, Andrea Dorea had agreed with the Emperor, at which they were making great rejoicings. His conditions were only what the others report, viz., the maintenance of so many galleys, with a large pension assigned in Naples, and assurance of the liberty of Genoa, including the town of Savona. It is said Gueldres has agreed with the Emperor, having been surprised in one of his towns without provisions; but I doubt this report, especially as the ships which brought Mons. de Reu are now upon the coast waiting for wind to go to Spain, and in them are several Spaniards going back with him. Among them also are three Portuguese vessels. London, 16 Oct.
P.S.—I wrote lately of the arrival of a brother of the earl of Angus at this court. He has come to complain of the Earl's treatment, who has been banished from Scotland, while they say the Queen has taken another husband, who is a still finer fellow than himself. On the Borders great inroads are made on both sides. The Legate will no longer be their neighbor, for he has this taken the bishopric of Winchester, the richest hereabouts, and will give up Durham. The Imperial ambassador speaks much about the affair of Mons. de Gueldres, even showing a copy of the capitulation, which bears that he has agreed with the Emperor to be friend of friends, and enemy of enemies, leaving the Emperor his heir should he die without children. The Spanish ships have come, and the merchants say that the Emperor has caused 200,000 ass-loads of corn to be brought from Andalusia into Biscay, apparently intending to seize a new opportunity of making war in that quarter.
French. Add.: Mons. le Grand Maistre de France.
16 Oct.
Vesp. C. IV. 262. B. M.
4852. LEE to HENRY VIII.
On Sept. 30 sent the Emperor's answer to Darius by the bishop of Pistoja. On Oct. 6 sent by sea a reply conceived by them and sent to Darius, but he was unable to find out whether the Emperor would be content with the condition expressed by Alemand. It is evident that he wants a mediator. The success in Italy makes them more close than they otherwise would be. Men are being raised both openly and secretly. The people of the country disapprove of the Emperor's journey to Italy, and impute it to the Chancellor. Some think his money will not serve, and it will be hard to get any more here. The great men are summoned to Toledo. The Emperor's confessor is removed from the secret council. The archbishop of Toledo and the count of Miranda are now of the council. They are perhaps chosen to attend on the Empress during the Emperor's absence in Italy, and he perhaps intends through them to get money from the great men. He used the same policy two years ago; for, before calling a Parliament, he took to his council the said Archbishop, the duke of Alva and others, but discharged them as soon as the Parliament was dissolved.
Has already written the words said to Darius by the count of Nassau concerning the divorce. Wishes for instructions what to say if it is mentioned. Has hitherto pretended ignorance, and said that if the King had any such intention, it was only to follow the judgment of the Church, and for the discharge of his conscience, and not from any displeasure towards the Queen. The report that the King has sent for advice to the doctors of Paris has confirmed this. Some say that the French are the original movers of this trouble, by their doubts as to the legitimacy of the Princess. Said that if such a doubt were moved, the King could do no less than try the sufficiency of the matrimony, on which it depends. They say here that Campeggio is arrived in England to judge the matter. Tell them that if it is so, it is plain that the King does not intend to do anything of his own will, but to abide what justice may require. Hears that the Emperor has sent to the Pope, by the general of the Observants, lately made Cardinal, (fn. 1) certain considerations against granting the King a dispensation for the divorce. Said that the King would not want a dispensation, but a declaration whether the marriage was valid or not. Valladolid, 16 Oct. 1528.
Hol.; cipher, deciphered by Tuke; pp. 3. Add. Endd.
16 Oct.
Vesp. C. IV. 261. B. M.
4853. GHINUCCI and LEE to [WOLSEY].
John Radecliff, who brought Wolsey's letters of 26 April, asking them to assist him in obtaining restitution for a ship taken at Bayona in Galicia, went to Madrid, but, not finding the Emperor there, made supplication to the Queen and her Council, of whom he obtained a good provision, which was afterward revoked on the suggestion of the other party that Spanish ships have been taken by the English. He is renewing his suit. Had other letters from Wolsey, of June 2, and a letter from Don Ynigo to the Emperor, concerning two ships of Dartmouth, but the party never came. Have agreed with the captors of the ships. Another poor man of the West country has obtained provision for his ship, but is not able to answer the costs. Gives an account of the suit of a young merchant, who has been here three months, for two ships taken. In consequence of a safe-conduct of don Ynigo, he has at length obtained power to sell the two ships, and have half the proceeds. Thinks that others will have much worse speed. Valladolid, 16 Oct. 1528. Signed.
Lee's hand, pp. 2.
16 Oct.
Vesp. C. IV. 263*. B. M.
4854. LEE to TUKE.
After writing his other letter it came into his mind to write fancies to him touching the answer to be made to the new demand of the Emperor of a particular peace with the King. Thinks there are many things to induce the French king to allow it. Otherwise it will be hard for him to find a mediator. If he will consent, it would be well to find out whether the Emperor will accept that condition. This will soon appear if answer be made that the King trusts the Emperor will desire him to do nothing contrary to his honor; which saved, that is to say, the universal peace ensuing, he can be content either to make a new treaty with the Emperor, or else to declare the old treaties in force, as before the intimation. Thinks this answer will save the King's honor and discover the Emperor's mind; for if he is not content with the answer, he does not mean to conclude the universal peace. Must endeavor to prevent the Emperor's accustomed delays, for he may agree, and yet put off the time for his own advantage, finding cavillations to have everything for the universal peace concluded before the particular peace is taken. He may make vain excuses about the judges or arbiters. Perhaps after the conclusion of the particular peace "he will give ears, which he will not give yet;" for they declare nothing of their mind to us now.
It is said that the Emperor has sent for don Ynigo. Does not wish Tuke to mention what he says, except to those whom he knows to be Lee's friends. Has written to the King much in the same manner. It is said here that Campegius has arrived in England. Valladolid, 16 Oct. 1528.
Hol., p. 1; cipher, deciphered by Tuke. Add.: To the right honorable Mr. Brian Tuke, 16 Oct. Duplicate.
16 Oct.
R. O.
4855. HIGDON, MAGNUS and BOWIS to WOLSEY.
Sir Thos. Clifford has exhibited to my lord of Richmond's council, on behalf of the earl of Cumberland, a complaint against lord Dacre for misdemeanors in Cumberland against the Earl's tenants, and that a special sessions of peace to inquire into it was "disappointed" by Dacre. The Council, therefore, wrote to the justices of peace, and a sessions was appointed at Carlisle, when heinous indictments were found against many persons. Send copies, signed by Sir Chr. Dacre and Hen. Lancaster, justices. Advise Wolsey to adjust matters between the Earl and Dacre, who both intend to be at London this Mich. term. Have committed four of Dacre's servants to ward at York, and sent for others of the chief rioters. Sheriff Hutton, 16 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: U[nto] my lord Legate's g[ood] grace. Endd.
16 Oct.
R. O.
4856. WALES
Notification to Wolsey by the King's tenants of the lordship and town of Breknok, S. Wales, that they have appointed John ap Ll's Havard and others as their proctors, to petition the King for reformation of "unlawful customs, usages and laws here occupied," and to "bargain and conclude for the redemption of the King's last sessions in oyer there holden" about arrears of taxes and talliages. 16 Oct. 20 Hen. VIII.
On parchment.
17 Oct.
Theiner, p. 570.
4857. CAMPEGGIO to SALVIATI.
I have not written since leaving Paris. When I arrived within four miles of London I wrote to Di Feltro. On Wednesday, the 7th, I reached the suburbs of London, and lodged at the house of the duke of Suffolk. It was arranged that my entry should be made publicly the next day, and the cardinal of York was to take part in it. But I was so prostrated by the gout, that I could not travel any further, either in a litter or on horseback. So I remained in the Duke's house all the next day, and in the evening the Cardinal conveyed me to the river, and I proceeded in a barge to the lodging assigned to me, namely, Bath House, without any noise or pomp. I have remained there till this present time, and am confined to bed, my agony being greater than usual, owing to the journey. I do not know when I shall be sufficiently free from pain to be able to visit the King.
The day following Wolsey came to see me. I had believed and hoped that he would not discuss any business with me; but he entered immediately into the cause of my coming. He showed me that, in order to maintain and increase here the authority of the Holy See and the Pope, he had done his utmost to persuade the King to apply for a legate on the ground of the desire and scruple which he has in his conscience, although many of these prelates declared it was possible to do without one. The Pope will have received abundant information on this point from Wolsey's letters.
As the Cardinal and the King were both resolved to proceed to the dissolution of the marriage, I presented the Pope's letter of credence. I told Wolsey that at my departure the Pope anticipated that he would be willing to labour with me in inducing the King to change his mind. (Here follows a long account of his conferences with Wolsey, as in his letter to Sanga of 28 Oct.)
As soon as I am able to stand, we shall go to the King. At the first interview I shall do not more than listen to and interrogate the King, in order to make discoveries, and to see how far his mind coincides with the information I have received about it. On presenting the Pope's letter I will exhort him according to my instructions. This has been arranged by the cardinal of York and myself. Subsequently I will do my utmost to persuade the King (i.e., to abandon the divorce), though I feel sure it will be in vain. I will do the same with the Queen, who, I doubt not, will show less repugnance. Although the importunity and solicitations of these people are well known to you by their past negociations in this affair, I thought it necessary to write all this discourse, even though I have not yet spoken to the King, in order that I may obtain a speedy reply [from the Pope], and some remedy for the great burden under which I labour, and which I cannot bear for long. Let me know how far I am to proceed in this cause.
I will endeavor with all diligence to procure the peace. Wolsey tells me he has the management of it, having heard from Spain of [the Emperor's] good intentions by letters from Darius, who writes that the most Reverend General was about to be despatched to the Pope.
This matter has come to such a pass that it can no longer be borne, and it is unnecessary to leave all the burden upon me, because the cardinal of York and all the kingdom take so much interest in it that they will wait no longer. I pray you to solicit for a determinate answer to be given me, either one way or the other; and let the answer be sent with diligence and in duplicate. As York found me so firm and constant in persuading that the separation should not be attempted, and as the Spaniards have been so successful in the kingdom [of Naples], he suspected that on the way I had received fresh commissions to delay the matter. He said to me that although the affairs of Italy since my departure may have been diverted, they have not been subverted (inversæ, non tamen sunt eversæ). I denied it with all earnestness, but I do not know how in this dilemma they will be able to procrastinate, or what they will think. Some resolution must be taken [by the Pope].
The King, being desirous to give me audience, removed to his palace here in London on the river, not far distant from my lodging. Although I could neither ride nor walk, and could not sit without discomfort, I was compelled on the 22nd to go for my first audience. I was warmly received and welcomed by his Majesty. The ambassadors and all the prelates and princes of the kingdom were assembled in a large hall. Public audience was given us, and, in the name of us two Legates, my [secretary] Floriano made an appropriate speech. (fn. 2) Dr. Fox replied. The King then withdrew with us into another chamber, where I presented the Pope's letter. The King was well disposed to the universal peace. I then read to him your letter of 3 Aug., respecting Ravenna and Cervia. The King replied that he had done all in his power, and that he and the cardinal of York had a very bad opinion (sono molto male edificati) of the Venetians. I urged him to use his influence with the Most Christian King to procure the restitution of Cervia and Ravenna, and of the territory held by the duke of Ferrara, on pain of their losing his (Henry's) assistance and favor.
The King told me plainly that the king of France wished that a fresh arrangement should be made by the League, and that this matrimonial cause should first be effected according to his (Henry's) desire; otherwise he (Francis) could not see why Henry should compel him to obtain so much from the Venetians, who were such good friends in this war, and who would not fail to make the restitution so soon as Henry attained his object with regard to the marriage; for they had expressly declared that they would make no restitution until the cause were despatched. I used many arguments to show it was not right to compel the Pope to do anything for the restitution of property of which he had been unduly deprived. The King replied, "We did not deprive him of it, but the Venetians." I rejoined that it was enough that they (Henry and Francis) were their confederates. But they have evidently resolved as above.
In these and other words, and in his manner, the King exhibited a most ardent desire for this divorce; and he seems to me to be so persuaded of the nullity of the marriage, and so firmly to believe it, that I have come to the conclusion that it will be impossible to persuade him otherwise.
Next day the King visited me privately. (Here follows an account of his interviews with Henry and Katharine, as in his letter to Sanga of 17 Oct., word for word.)
This post is despatched [to Rome] to obtain the bishopric of Winchester for the cardinal of York. Considering his merits, I recommend him to the Pope and the Sacred College.
London, 17 Oct. 1528.
Ital.
17 Oct.
Laemmer, Mon. Vat., p. 25.
4858. CAMPEGGIO to SANGA.
As the King was desirous to give me audience, he removed to his palace here in London upon the river, not far distant from my dwelling. My friend Florian made an appropriate speech, composed of such matter that he gained an attentive hearing from all present. When, insisting upon a universal peace, he alluded to the calamity of Italy and of Rome, all were moved to tears. Dr. Fox made an elegant reply. After this public ceremony, his Majesty drew us two [Legates] into another chamber, where I explained to him the Pope's good will, and presented the Pope's letter, which he read. At this first interview I did not discuss particulars, but spoke only of the general peace. The King seemed heartily to desire it, and promised me, sopra la sua testa, that he would not fail to do everything in his power.
Next day after dinner the King visited me privately, and we remained together alone about four hours, discussing only two things. First, I exhorted him not to attempt this matter, in order to confirm and clear his conscience, to establish the succession of the kingdom, and to avoid scandals; and that if he had any scruple, he could have a new dispensation. I adduced many reasons which appeared to me very efficacious, and the whole was patiently listened to. The King's reply was evidently premeditated. I believe York (Wolsey) had well instructed him, because his Lordship used the very same reasons.
In the second place, we disputed whether the prohibition existed in the Divine law, or whether the Pope could grant a dispensation; and, if he could, whether the dispensation would be valid. His Majesty has so diligently studied this matter, that I believe in this case he knows more than a great theologian and jurist. He told me plainly that he wanted nothing else than a declaration whether the marriage is valid or not,—he himself always presupposing its invalidity; and I believe that an angel descending from Heaven would be unable to persuade him otherwise.
We then discussed a proposal for persuading the Queen to enter some religious house. With this he was extremely pleased; and, indeed, there are strong reasons for it; "et fra l'altre che la Regina non perde se non l'uso della persona del Re, quale ha perso piu di dui anni, ne è per rihaverlo quomodocunque res cadat." In all other matters the King is determined to allow her whatever she demands, and especially to settle the succession on her daughter in the event of his having no male heirs by another marriage. It was concluded that I and York should speak to the Queen about this on the day following.
Accordingly on Saturday the 24th, being conveyed in a boat by the Cardinal (Wolsey), we went to execute this mission; but first of all we had another private interview with the King. He desired to see the bull of the commission, which I read. His Majesty then stated he had some suspicion that he should be abandoned in this affair, saying that within the last twenty hours, since he had spoken with me, he had heard from some merchants of London that they would engage their credit that his Holiness would come to an agreement with the Emperor. I replied that the Pope would do nothing unworthy of a good pontiff, but he was bound to have regard to many things. The King professed to be satisfied.
Taking leave of his Majesty, the Cardinal and I repaired to the Queen, with whom we conversed alone about two hours. After our greetings I gave her the Pope's letter, which she received, and read with good cheer (cera). She then inquired what I had to say to her. I began by telling her that as the Pope could not refuse justice to any one who demands it, he had sent the cardinal of York and myself hither to understand the state of the question between her Highness and the King's Majesty; but as the matter was very important and full of difficulty, his Holiness, in right of his paternal office and of the love which he bore her, counselled her, confiding much in her prudence, that rather than press it to trial she should of her prudence take some other course which would give general satisfaction and greatly benefit herself and her affairs. I did not further explain the means to her, in order to discover what she would demand. The cardinal of York spoke to the same effect, as far as I could understand, though he spoke chiefly in the English language.
Her Majesty replied that she knew the sincerity of her own conscience; that she wished to die in the holy Faith [and in] obedience to the commands of God and of holy Church; that she wished to declare her conscience [only] to our Lord; (fn. 3) and that for the present she would give no other reply, as she intended to demand counsellors of the King her lord and consort, and then she would hear us and make answer. She stated that she had heard we were to persuade her to enter some religion. I did not deny it, and constrained myself to persuade her that it rested with her, by doing this, to satisfy God, her own conscience, the glory and fame of her name, [and to preserve] her honors and temporal goods and the succession of her daughter; that she would lose nothing, "se non l'uso della persona del Re," which she had lost already, and which I knew she would never recover; that she should rather yield to his displeasure (ira) than submit herself to the peril of a sentence, considering, if that went against her, in what grief and trouble she would be, and in how little honour and reputation; and that she would lose her dowry, because in cases of matrimony it was concluded that on the dissolution, whensoever and howsoever, of a marriage, the dower could not be recovered. I begged her to consider the scandals and enmities which would ensue. On the other hand, instead of all these inconveniences, which should be avoided, she would preserve her dower, the guardianship of her daughter, her rank as Princess, and in short all that she liked to demand of the King; and she would offend neither God nor her own conscience. Then I alleged the example of the queen of France that was, who did a similar thing, and who still lives in the greatest honor and reputation with God and all that kingdom.
The same arguments, and probably more, were impressed upon her by the cardinal of York, who requested her to ponder these counsels, and to recognise their importance, and the good or the evil which depended on both sides of the question, hoping that of her prudence she would resolve for the best.
Thus we left her, resolved, as she assured us, to manifest to our Lord the sincerity of her conscience; to which I replied, that I was sent by the Pope to hear whatever she chose to explain to me, and that I would faithfully tell him my opinion, seeing that I should relate the whole to his Holiness, by whose reply she would be convinced that I had sincerely done my duty. She rejoined that she intended to demand counsellors of the King her consort, as she was a foreigner without any friend; (fn. 4) and then she would give us audience. London, 17 Oct. 1528.
Ital.
17 Oct.
R. O.
4859. WOLSEY to MAGNUS.
Bids him cause the abbot of St. Mary's to pay 100l. to Geo. Douglas the bearer, brother of the earl of Angus, whom the king of Scots is endeavoring to annoy. Wishes him to have intelligence with the Earl for the furtherance of his affairs. Sends the copies of the King's and his own letters to him. Duresme Place, 17 Oct. Signed.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
18 Oct.
R. O.
4860. JAMES V. to HENRY VIII.
Requests a safe-conduct for Will. Stewart, ambassador of France, with sixteen servants in his company. Edinburgh, 18 Oct. Signed.
P. 1, broadsheet. Add. Endd.
18 Oct.
R. O.
4861. SIR ROBT. WINGFIELD to [WOLSEY].
Sends a list of all the books, bound and unbound, and all the quires, which he found in Sir Ph. Smethis chamber, and committed to the commissary's keeping by desire of the bp. of Bath. It is signed by himself and the commissary. Has packed them up in canvas, and sent them sealed to Sir John Butler, another of Wolsey's commissaries, who wrote for them from Dover. Sends also Smith's confession. Calais, 18 Oct. 1528.
Hol., p. 1.
R. O. 2. Letters and books referred to.
(1.) 12 letters to Philip Smith. (2.) 24 small books in print, bound either in leather or parchment, sc., Nov. Testament. Erasmi, Salamonis Sententiæ per Malangtonem, Franc. Lambertus in IV. Ultimos Prophetas, The same in Primum XII. Prophetarum, The New Testament in English, The same in Dutch, Luther in Epist. Pauli ad Galathas, "Ad Gasperis, &c," Melancthon in Epistolam Pauli, Lambertus de causis Excæcationis multorum sæculorum, Œcolampadius in Epistolam Pauli, Sermo Mart. Lutheri, Enarrationes Lutheri in Epistolas Petri, Hyperaspistes, Adversus falso nominatum ordinem episcoporum, "Ad Gasperis," Jac. Latomius de Confessione Secreta, Symbolum Fidei, In Jesaiam Prophetam, Postulatio Johannis Bugenhagii, Epistola Regia contra Lutherum, The same in English, A written book of certain authorities, Œconomica Christi.
Of eight unbound books, besides those already mentioned, Lambertus in Amos, De Servo Arbitrio. Various quires of paper, some printed and some written. Signed by Wingfield and William Petreson.
In Wingfield's hand, pp. 2.
18 Oct.
R. O.
4862. THOS. STRANGWAYS to WOLSEY.
Rode by Wolsey's command to Daventre, and made a clear reckoning with Master Dean of Wolsey's college. Hopes the Dean will report that Strangways has paid all duties. Sent his Deputy to Berwick to discharge the duties of marshal, but the vice-captain would not admit him, nor more than 12 soldiers of the retinue. Got Dr. Gardiner, Henege and Arondell to write for him to the vice-captain, but he disregarded it. Came, therefore, to Berwick with his whole retinue of 24, which has lain at his cost since the date of his patent; but the vice-captain allowed only 12 to enter, saying, his patent allowed him to put in and dismiss soldiers at pleasure. Never was marshal so treated since the town was English. Requests that Geo. Lawson, who, he thinks, has been chief cause of the difficulty, be instructed to pay his whole retinue from the date of his patent. Lawson is at Berwick receiver and treasurer, master of the ordnance, letter and setter of the King's revenues, customer and controller, bridgemaster, master carpenter, and master mason. Wishes Wolsey knew how these offices are discharged. Durham, 18 Oct. Signed.
Pp. 2. Add.: To my lord Legate's good grace.
18 Oct.
Vit. B. XXI. 49. B. M.
4863. The TURKS and BOHEMIANS.
Account of a defeat of the Saxons, Bohemians and Austrians by the Turks, owing to the desertion of John Catzianer and the Styrian cavalry. 18 Oct.
Lat., pp. 2.
20 Oct.
S. B. Rym. XIV. 268.
4864. For THOMAS CARDINAL OF YORK.
Grant of the custody of the see and temporalities of Winchester, void by the death of Richard the last bishop, during such voidance. Del. Westm., 20 Oct. 20 Hen. VIII.
Pat. 20 Hen. VIII. p. 1, m. 37.

Footnotes

  • 1. Francis Quignones.
  • 2. See the letter to Sanga, 17 Oct.
  • 3. i.e., the Pope. Campeggio often calls the Pope "nostro signore."
  • 4. "che era femina forestiera et senza alcuno."