Edward VI: May 1553 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Edward VI 1547-1553. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1861.

Citation:

'Edward VI: May 1553', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Edward VI 1547-1553, ed. William B Turnbull( London, 1861), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/edw-vi/pp273-287 [accessed 22 December 2024].

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May 1553



May 1. Poissy.	672. Dr. Wotton, Sir William Pickering, and Sir Thomas Chaloner, to the same. The Dean of Canterbury and Sir Thomas Chaloner arrived at Poissy on Friday the 21st ult., Sir William Pickering having met them at Pontoise on the preceding day. On Saturday morning it was notified to the latter by the Constable that the King intended to keep the ceremonies of the Order of the Garter on the next day, being the Feast of St. George, and desired his presence thereat, as well as at the first even song that Saturday. He attended accordingly, where he noted that in the stalls of the chapel the King of England's arms were set upon the right hand of the door, and the French King's on the left side, so attributing for the time of those ceremonies the honour to King Edward. The only ones who wore the robes of the Order were the King and the Constable. The Duke of Guise bore the King's train at his offering and passing to and from the chapel. The French Queen, the young Queen of Scots, the Dauphin, the Princesses Elizabeth and Claude, and the Duke of Lorraine, with some other young Princes, were also at the service. Few of the ordinary courtiers, however, were there, as the whole, with the exception of the ordinary officers, are at present either at their private residences or on duty upon the frontiers. On St. George's day, the King made Pickering accompany him from the church side by side, and thereafter dine with him; the Constable in his robes being the only other of the party. The King was more than usually affable, and among other conversation inquired of Pickering which of the Orders, that of St. Michael, St. George, or the Toison d'Or was the most ancient? Pickering replied that of St. George, having been founded by King Edward III.; which the Constable confirmed. His Majesty also told him that he was informed that the Palsgrave, the Bishop of Mentz, the Duke of Cleves, the Duke of Deuxpont or Sweyburg, with certain Princes of Germany, were met for the election of a new Emperor, he that now is being very sore sick and not like to escape. Farther, that a captain of his, called Cornelio Bentivoglio, keeping a hold within the territory of Sienna, had cut in pieces 2,000 landsknechts, part of the Emperor's army there. ("The number may chance indeed to be 500 or 600.") That the Burgundians encamped by Terouanne were very evil appointed, and no soldiers to be much accounted of. He had likewise heard from the Baron de la Garde, captain of his gallies in Turkey, for whose return he looked shortly, implying that the Baron would bring some Turkish aid with him. As his Majesty was going to ride on hunting next morning, audience to the three joint Commissioners was deferred till Tuesday, St. Mark's day, on the eve of which the Constable sent to the Dean of Canterbury part of the venison killed by the King, and forgot not the next day, before the Dean had leisure to return thanks, to put him straight in remembrance thereof. Audience had, the King gave them most gentle entertainment, and after due attention to their credentials, referred them for consideration of the objects of their mission to the Constable and the other ministers. After the interview the Constable presented them to the Dauphin, who for his years is of handsome stature, and better liking, than his late sickness doth well suffer him to be, and likewise the young Duke of Lorraine. They were then brought to the Queen's bed-chamber, who within these fourteen days looketh to be delivered of child, to whom, and the rest of the young Princesses, they did the salutations appertaining. After leaving, they were in daily expectation of being sent for by the Constable, but did not hear from him till Friday, when M. Villandry informed him that next day was appointed for the meeting. At this were present only the Constable, the Cardinal of Lorraine, and M. Bertrandy, the Garde des Sceaux, when the grievances, complaints, and demands preferred by the French against the Emperor were rehearsed at great length, and are by the said Commissioners fully set forth. These demands of the French, according to the instructions received, they have sent in cipher to the Bishop of Norwich and his colleagues. [Nineteen pages.]
May 5. Brussels.	673. Sir Philip Hoby to the Duke of Northumberland. States the reasons that have moved the Commissioners to make no mean to be heard by the Regent. First, they hear nothing certain of the coming of the Legates, and therefore need not haste the message for them. Next, as to speaking with the Queen, they forbear, in the first place, because they should wish previously to hear out of France, that they may have some ground to walk on before they enter with her; and secondly, to see whether in the meantime the Emperor will amend, so that they may come to his own presence, both for the more honour of the matter, and to ascertain by their own eyes what state his body is in, that therefore they may guess whether it were convenient for them to enter with him in breaking of the other matters for combining the King with the Germans. Because, if they perceive him to be in a dangerous way, it were folly to broach the subject, since by his time it were unlike to take any effect. Wherefore Hoby offers his opinion that it were better one of them should break the matter of the league with the Emperor as a thing of his own device, and the more acceptable such person should be to the Emperor the better ground his argument is likely to take. Incloses the substance of address proposed. Should the Emperor mislike it, it is but a private device rejected, and cannot compromise the King; if he should like it, his disposition thus known will enable them and his ministers to confer thereon; and in the event of his death before the conclusion of the league, their practice with the Germans by these means may be such as will stand the King in great stead. Has considered, in case Ferdinand and his son Maximilian should mean to put in their foot here, what inconvenience this league might breed in such case. Understands that the people are more inclined to Maximilian than to the Emperor's son, and would rather submit to any other nation than to the Spaniards. States the question of succession, and expresses his conviction of troubles in the country after the Emperor's death, and on full reflection upon conflicting probabilities, concludes that any such treaty as is proposed can by no means be prejudicial to England.
	P.S. After this long delay, finding the Emperor in such weak case as to prevent their having audience, they had this day, the 7th inst., had access to the Regent, as their common letters shall explain. As they understand that the Emperor has not been seen, nor has given audience to any one for three months, they think that the prevailing rumour is in some part rather true than otherwise; which is, that some say he is already dead, others that he has lost his senses, and others that he is so feeble that his recovery is impossible; all which together make it be suspected that if he is not already dead, he cannot long continue. His opinion that the practice should be made with Ferdinand, Maximilian, and the rest of the Empire. [Four pages.] Annexed,
	673. I. Proposed speech to the Emperor by the party who should broach the subject of a league. [Two pages.]
May 7. Brussels.	674. The Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Have this day had audience of the Regent and delivered their message: whereunto she made as gracious and courteous answers as could be desired. She is to make the subject of their mission known to the Emperor, and will inform them of his mind therein as shortly as may be, not doubting but they should be answered to their contentation. Five thousand Spaniards in the Emperor's service, garrisoned at Cambray, have mutinied, their wages being seven months in arrear. Not only Don Aluiso D'Avila, the captain of their horse, was fain to fee from them, but also the Arcaldo, who was sent hence to pacify them, had to make hard shifts to escape their hands. They remain in a state of mutiny until their just claims are satisfied. Marquis Albert has taken the town and castle of Bamberg, and chased the Bishop out of his diocese; making such a revel there, that the Emperor has been obliged to summon the Princes of Germany to assemble at Frankfort, for the purpose of pacifying these contentions between the Marquis and the Bishop. News from Italy that 14 gallies have sailed from Genoa to convey 2,000 Spaniards from the coast of Sienna to Naples, for the defence of those parts. Don Garcia, the Emperor's General in the territory of Sienna, had of late taken beside Viterbo 26,000 crowns, which were supposed to have been sent to the aid of Sienna. But, it being said the money belongs to the Bishop of Rome, Don Garcia has deposited the money in the hands of the Bishop of Viterbo until the truth be known. It is said that the Emperor has written to the Duke of Florence to practise some agreement between him and the Siennese. Send herewith copies of a letter from the Bishop of Rome to the Prince of Spain, and of one from Hungary touching the proceedings of Battista Castaldo. Presume they have heard from Wotton and his colleagues, of the unreasonable demands that the French make to the introduction of this peace. [Four pages.]
	674. I. Copy letter from Pope Julius III. to Philip, Prince of Spain, Rome, 8th April 1553. Informs him that he has dispatched Legates to the Emperor and King of France for the purpose of effecting a reconciliation between those Sovereigns, and requests the Prince will use his influence with his father to that end. John Cardinal Poggio, his Legate, and Leonard Bishop of Laodicea, his Nuncio, will fully explain to the Prince the sentiments of his Holiness. Latin. Countersigned by Paul Sadoletus, Bishop of Carpentras. [One page.]
	674. II. Copy letter (anonymous) from Gargotz, 17 April 1553. Thirty-seven days ago Castaldo and his troops left the confines of Transylvania for Hungary, by orders of the King of the Romans, and within the last three days reached Presburg. The delay has been caused by the difficulty of passing the steep mountains and swollen rivers; besides on account of these the baggage, escorted by 300 Spaniards, could not overtake more than two or leagues per diem at the utmost. Six hundred out of 4,000 Germans were either drowned or slain by the natives. The rest of the troops are well, but wearied and thin, and require rest and support. Matters are quiet in Transylvania, and all this country will continue subject to his Majesty, and there is every prospect of an honourable peace or truce with the Turk. It is whispered that the King of Poland and Petrovich Count of Themisnar would have wished to attempt to restore the son of King John, but seeing that the King has entirely fulfilled the covenants made with Queen Isabella, mother of the said son of King John, this is not likely to be. The Sophi is very successful against the Turk's army, and the Bassa of Caramania has revolted from the Turk and joined the Persian; wherefore the Turk makes vigorous preparations aqainst them, and these may be the causes of his making peace or a truce with the King. The Vaivode, who was expelled from this great country, and joined the Turk, has obtained from him a large number of troops to assist him to recover his dominions. The new Vaivode has joined the King, and has brought picked troops, both foot and horse, into Transylvania, together with a large supply of arms, such as helmets, lances, shields, and cuirasses for arming his soldiers, and marches to oppose the enemy crossing the Danube. These two Vaivodes will have between them 100,000 men, but it is thought 10,000 good soldiers would beat both of them. [Italian. One page and a half.]
May [7.] Brussels.	675. Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. When with D'Arras had moved the matter of the kersies taken by Marquis Albert from Lane and Cavalcante, showing the number of the bales, their contents and value. D'Arras said he would with all his heart speak to the Emperor, and was sure that he would as willingly write in their behalf; but his doubt was, the letters would serve only to small purpose. Told D'Arras that his Majesty was advertised that the kersies were still unsold, and the parties in good hope to recover them if the Emperor would write earnest and favourable letters for them. D'Arras smiled, and said "He hath neither title to the kersies, nor right to anything else that he violently hath taken in this his time of spoil and robbery, but having still need of new money, it shall be an hard matter to bring him to restitution." D'Arras says that the Emperor as yet can sign no letters, the gout being in his right hand. Everybody is bold with the Emperor, and give him what disease they will, and in what place they list. The Queen, in counterfeiting more gladness than others can find warrant for it, only increases suspicion. At the audience which she gave to the Bishop of Norwich, she laughed, but at such time as, finding no cause for it, Morysine thought she did so to make the bystanders imagine she had cause of some mirth. The Emperor's deferring of his audience shows but a mean policy, in making the world believe that he has a great desire to talk with the Commissioners, and in so long a time could not find one half-hour to hear what the Bishop of Norwich and Hoby had to say to him. It was reported that an agent sent from the old Queen of Poland had access to him three or four days since; but this is now denied. They that told it said the agent came to his bedside, kissed his hand, but heard him say nothing, neither did he see his face. Now people say that when the Emperor stole from Inspruck, meaning to come privily to Flanders, Adrian lay in the Emperor's bed, while some of the Chamber came in and were after sent off errands. Also that at that time the priests said mass by the bedside, and gave Adrian the pax, believing him to be the Emperor. This done, Adrian rose and fetched in the Emperor's meat, (torn) some think, another in his bed-room. Too much, not to be well an hour or two in so long a sickness ! The Prince of Piedmont takes his Majesty's present exceeding thankfully. [Three pages.]
May 10. [Greenwich.]	676. Memorial for John Sheres, sent from King Edward VI. to the King of the Romans, to endeavour to induce his Majesty to join in the proposed league. On his way, or at such time as is most convenient, to visit Maximilian King of Bohemia, son of the said King of the Romans, for the purpose of understanding his disposition thereto. [Eight pages. Draft.]
May 12. Venice.	677. Peter Vannes to Sir William Petre and Sir William Cecil. Great expectations here that some goodness of peace shall ensue from his Majesty's intervention. Both the French and Imperial Ambassadors much praise the election of Ambassadors lately sent by the King to their Princes, as men of wit, learning, and discretion. The French King has made some provisions in Italy of a certain kind of armories, and already brought them within the dominion of Venice, for to arm a certain band of men, being now upon the French gallies. Requests them to deliver the inclosed letter to the Lords of the Council. [One page.]
May 12. Venice.	678. Same to the Council. Letters from Constantinople of the 11th ult., mention that the gallies for the French King's service will sail about the 15th curt. "The Turk was entered into some suspicion with the French King, having perceived to be in hand a certain overture of peace between the Emperor and him." The Persians continue to be successful over the Turk, wherefore he daily increases his army in those parts. The Imperialists still besiege Montalcino with small hope of winning it; a treaty within the town devised with the Imperialists was lately detected, and the authors thereof put to death. The Bishop of Rome greatly labours for some peace in Tuscany, having great hope of such since the coming to Rome of Mons. de Lansac, the French King's Ambassador, the said King being willing to withdraw his troops if the Emperor will do the same; and that the Bishop as an indifferent person, should place in Sienna a competent number of men of war, under such head as the inhabitants should appoint, for the conservation of their liberties. A conference of Perugia, between the Bishop, Duke of Florence, Cardinal of Ferrara, and the Ambassadors of Sienna, is spoken of, but it is thought not likely to come to pass, the Siennese being considered very poor, and unable of themselves to defend their own liberties. They write from Milan that the French troops in Piedmont are daily increased, it is thought to go to Naples to join the Turk's and French King's army rather than to do any exploit against Milan, and that the Marquis de Marignano, a very expert Captain and assured servant to the Emperor, shall go to Naples to serve him there as occasion shall require. Don Fernando makes great preparations for keeping the frontiers and towns entrusted to his charge on certain assurance; so that the peace looked for by intervention of the King of England is less in expectation. Cardinal Pole is understood to have come from Rome to a certain abbey of his in the States of Ferrara, and thereafter is to spend the summer at the residence of a friend within the dominion of Venice. Mr. Stafford, his nephew, is here for this great feast. (fn. 1) Cannot see that the Cardinal has any great matters to do here, but that he has absented himself from Rome for his most quiet and safety, or for some other particular respects of his own, much misliking these tumults, nothing agreeable to his profession. [Three pages.] Inclosure,
May 12. Venice.	678. I. Intelligence from Constantinople, 11 April 1553. The Beglier Bey of Greece left Constantinople for Chipsala on the 30th March, to collect troops for Natolia, and continue preparations against the Sophy. If the Turk does not go in person, he will send Alcmath Bassa with a great force. [Italian. Half a page.]
May 12. [Greenwich.]	679. The Council to Sir Philip Hoby. Convey his Majesty's and their own approbation of his letter of the 5th to the Duke of Northumberland, and of the very wise discourse proposed to be addressed to the Emperor by one of the Commissioners, who they think should be Hoby's self, as none more acceptable to him. Request him to continue his vigilance in procuring advertisements as to those things mentioned of the King of the Romans, and his son Maximilian. Inform him that one Black Will, who of long times has been a notable murderer, and one of the most wretched and vile persons that lives, is of late staid at Flushing, by the procurement of certain servants of the Treasurer of his Majesty's household; and although there be many divers causes that of conscience more than require that he be sent over to be punished, yet one special case there is, the shameful murder of one Arden, of Feversham, in Kent, which much enforces them to require earnestly that he be sent over. Send Hoby copy of their letters to the Bailiff and other Magistrates of Flushing, and require him to speak to the Regent for her commands to the officers of that town, to deliver the culprit to those who shall be appointed to convey him to England. [Two pages and a half. Draft.]
May 13. Brussels.	680. The Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. On Thursday, the Ascension Day, received their Lordships' letters of the 5th, by Mr. George Cobham. Since their audience on last Sunday, have not received answer from the Queen. On Wednesday the 10th D'Arras paid them a visit, and informed them that the cause of delay proceeded from the Emperor's desire to make his answer personally. Detail their conversation with D'Arras as to the causes of the war between France and the Emperor, the proposals for peace, &c. D'Arras had inquired how his Majesty was, and, in ignorance of his health, they had replied that he was recovered of his cough and was now well. But now they perceive there has been a report of his Majesty's sickness since his going to Greenwich, which had moved D'Arras to put the question. On the afternoon of Ascension Day they were visited by M. Monfalconet, the Emperor's Maitre d'Hotel, M. de Courriers, Count Horne, and M. de la Chau, who, in absence of M. de Rie, is chief gentleman of the Privy Chamber, and ascertained from Monfalconet that the Emperor has been, and yet is, very sick, but cannot obtain precise particulars, because he is kept so close that no man comes abroad able directly to say the Emperor is in this or that case. Have desired Chamberlain to make diligent search into the state of the Low Country, and send his discourse thereon. (Missing.) Horse and foot pass continually towards Terouanne and the frontier. Send advertisements out of Italy (missing). [Three pages.]
May 15. [St. Germain.]	681. Henry II., King of France, to King Edward VI. Expresses the extreme regret occasioned to him by the news of his Majesty's illness, and sends the bearer, M. De L'Aubespine, his Secretar yof State, to make personal inquiries. [Partly holograph. Addressed "Monsieur mon bon fils et frere le Roy Dangleterre."]
May 16. Poissy.	682. Dr. Wotton, Sir William Pickering, and Sir Thomas Chaloner to the Council. Since writing on the 1st inst., they have received letters neither from their Lordships nor from the Bishop of Norwich and his colleagues in Flanders. Yesterday the Cardinal Legate from Rome, called Capo di Ferro, arrived at Paris, where he was solemnly received with the accustomed processions, and, for more special honour, the Bishop of Cahors there met and received him. He comes hither to-morrow, it is thought, as a mediator, since he has effected a truce between the French and Imperial troops at Sienna. Secretary De L'Aubespine starts to night for England, the French King having been advertised that the King has been a little sick and accrased; for what cause he is dispatched they know not, but think there may be some farther matter than errand of visitation. On Saturday evening Basing, captain of one of his Majesty's ships, who had chased the pirates Strangwisshe and the Killigrews into Brest, arrived here, bringing letter from his brother officer Bethell, having spent ten days on the road by occasion of evil horsing. Suspect that, notwithstanding Pickering has a commission under the King's privy seal for their apprehension, there is small likelihood of taking them by reason of official impediments and delays, and that they have private warning to make way for themselves. Yesterday the French Queen, after a long and perilous travail, was brought a-bed of a daughter; and it is reported that in four days the King goes from St. Germain to Paris, and thence to Picardy. Pietro Strozzi has returned from the Duke of Ferrara, who will join the French King if he sends a notable army into Italy, otherwise would be loth to discover himself altogether French without notable purpose. Reiffenberg is said to have agreed with the French King to make up his troops to the number of 6,000 landsknechts, including those whom he has already in regiment. [Six pages. Partly printed by Tytler, Vol. ii., p. 178.]
May [Before 9th.] [Greenwich.]	683. The Council to the Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine. Acknowledge their letters of 28th April by Francisco. Desire them not to proceed farther in matters of the league until they can confer with Mount. Instruct them in the event of the Emperor's death to wait upon the Regent and offer condolence; at same time the Bishop of Norwich and Morysine to take leave, their mission being ended, and Hoby to acquaint her Majesty that he is to remain as resident in terms of the King's former letter. When about to dispatch this letter, have received their's of the 30th April, (fn. 2) and though they doubt not that the staying of his Majesty's letter to the Regent touching Chamberlain's revocation was intended for the more furtherance of the King's service, yet they marvel that, perceiving his Majesty's determinate resolutions, grounded upon such weighty considerations as have not yet been answered, such stay should have been made, and require the said letter to be delivered, so that his Majesty's former resolutions may take effect accordingly. [Three pages. Draft.]
May 19. Brussels.	684. The Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Acknowledge receipt of the letters of 5th and 12th inst. Hoby and Chamberlain had audience of the Regent yesterday afternoon, when the latter delivered his letters of revocation. Her Grace's regret at parting with Chamberlain is equalled by her gratification that Hoby is to supply his place, she having heretofore had experience of him. Although contrary to the laws of Flanders, Black Will is to be delivered up, it being a pity so abominable a murderer should escape unpunished. This morning they went to D'Arras that Chamberlain might take leave of him, who commended Chamberlain as a good minister of amity, and one that was not a little acceptable here, using towards him very great familiarity, calling him "neighbour," and saying that he left so good a pledge behind of his wife and family that he was to be reckoned one of their own, promising his friendship, and assured furtherance in anything within his power. And when Chamberlain asked for his passport, told him that the Queen herself had taken upon her the charge of his dispatch, and would not commit it to any other. Mentioned to them that the Emperor was about the making of a new league in Germany to redress the present stirs there; and on Hoby asking whether he meant to renew the league of Suevia, replied that it should be either that or another. In consequence of the rumours at Antwerp, the camp at Terouanne, and elsewhere, that the Emperor was dying, or mad, and therefore might not be seen, Hoby took advantage of the opportunity of M. de Courriers dining with them three days ago, to talk with him apart on these reports, and set forth the inconvenience likely to arise to the States of Germany therefrom, but which might be repressed either by the Emperor being seen, even although he were unable to walk and needed to be carried in his chair, or by the propagators of such reports being sought out and punished. Had instanced the recent case of the King's Majesty, who being but a little sick of a cough, the lewd people had devised and reported that he was dead; wherefore some of them had been prosecuted, and the King showed himself abroad, both in his garden and other places, whereas enough might see that the bruit was false. Courriers made no farther answer touching the Emperor's sickness or madness, but that, as he was a true gentleman, if the Emperor were dead he died that morning, assuring them that that morning he was alive. As they know right well what Mons. de Courriers is, their Lordships may form their opinion upon his answer: for the state of the Emperor cannot be known here. Three days ago a courier was dispatched hence to the Duke of Florence, to cause the Imperialists to abandon the enterprise of Sienna; but news have since been received from Italy that they have already raised the siege, and haste as fast as they can towards Naples, by sea and land, to resist the Turk's navy which is suspected to be coming there. But the cause of their departing is said to be the great penury in their camp, the Bishop of Rome having for some time stopped the supplies of provisions that the troops before Montalcino were wont to have from Perugia and other places in his dominions. The Spanish mutineers at Cambray have again risen, mistrusting the Emperor's pardon, because in some cases heretofore he has, notwithstanding his promise, caused some of the ringleaders to be executed. They have therefore required the promise of the Prince of Piedmont, and also that he shall be their General; making small account of Don Aluiso Chyssado, the Emperor's Maitre d'Hotel, and less of Don Aluiso d'Avila. They are now reported to be pacified. On Monday last arrived the Legate, Cardinal Dandino. He was met a good way out of town by all the Italian Ambassadors here, and Don Franciso D'Este, whether of his good will or by command they cannot tell. Marquis Albert has again defeated the Bishop of Bamberg, and routed those of Nuremburg. Send intelligence received from Mount. (fn. 3) [Five pages.]
May 20. Venice.	685. Peter Vannes to Sir William Petre and Sir William Cecil. Having no worthy matters whereof to advertise the Council, requests them to deliver the inclosed to their Lordships. [Half a page.] Inclosure,
May 20. Venice.	685. I. The expugnation of Montalcino profiteth very little, and there appeareth small hope to be won. In Sienna has lately been detected a treaty in favour of the Imperialists: the particulars are yet unknown, but Sig. Giulio Salvi, one of the chief gentlemen of the town, has been taken and put in prison as guilty. The Bishop of Rome and the Duke of Florence daily labour for an agreement concerning the matters of Sienna, whereof no manner of likelihood appears. Numbers of troops daily arrive in Piedmont, and about 5,000 Swiss are expected. Don Fernando has gone to Asti in Piedmont, having gathered as much money as he can; and has dispatched several captains to levy soldiers, to oppose the passing of the frontiers by the French, who it is thought will attempt to proceed by that way to Naples, there to join the Turk's army. Letters from Constantinople confirm that the Turk's fleet of 70 gallies, with Dragut Rey as Captain, will sail about the end of the present month, and that Captain Poulin, Baron de la Garde, had gone to Scio to expedite the French King's gallies to join the Turks at time and place appointed. Of this the Imperialists seem not to be greatly affeared. [One page and a half.]
May 26. Brussels.	686. The Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Mount arrived here on the evening of the 21st. They have since conferred with him, and send as the result of their deliberations the doubts which they proposed to themselves as to effecting the league, and the opinions at which they have arrived in resolving the objections. The access to the Emperor is still deferred, although audience promised every three or four days: so also is that of the new-come Legate, with whom D'Arras has been twice. Common report says that the Emperor is not in meet case to be spoken with; and Christopher Woolfe, servant to the Fuggers, has been here eight weeks, waiting for the signing of certain bills for money already received to the Emperor's use, which he cannot obtain because he must be present to see the Emperor subscribe. The Princes of Germany, too, who were first assembled at Heidelberg, received a letter from him sealed, but not signed; which being unusual, they consider very strange. Last Monday night the burgesses here rose in arms, because of injuries done to them by the Spaniards, who had killed two or three of the townsmen on several occasions, and been supposed to go unpunished. The matter was pacified next day by the committal of certain Spaniards to ward; but the people for the time were so excited, that no Spaniard durst show his head in the town, but had to take refuge at the Court until quiet was restored. The French within Terouanne seem to make little better than a mockery of the siege. [Two pages.] Annexed,
	686. I. Doubts of the Commissioners on the question: "If it shall be thought good that the King's Majesty should enter into a straiter amity with the Emperor jointly with the other Princes of Germany?"
	1. Whether, being hitherto opposed to such, the Emperor can be contented that a foreign Prince should join in league and tether the Empire.
	2. Whether he could incline to the Germans confidently with the King of England, since he may fear that their religion might be thereby better established, and less easily altered by him.
	3. Whether the advantages which the present league between the Empire and the Low Countries produce to the Emperor, may not be considered by him as likely to be impaired by any new league.
	4. Whether the Germans would be willing to join such league, because, as it is supposed, they do not observe the present league with the Emperor very willingly, they may have still less inclination to enter into any new one.
	5. Whether the league should be made with the Princes of Germany exclusive of the Emperor.
	6. Whether the disorder amongst the chief Princes should hinder the King's purpose; for having John Frederick, he should want Duke Maurice and the Landgrave, and vice versâ.
	7. A Diet being appointed to be held at Frankfort on 29th of this month for the appeasing of these discords; if the Princes at variance shall be there personally, should his Majesty send any one thither to move them to accord.
	8. Whether in such event the Emperor should be previously apprised of his Majesty's intention, as he might suspect other practices, or consider his imperial prerogative invaded.
	9. If these Princes should be pacified, being divided into Protestants and Papists, whether both sorts can be contented to enter into such league.
	10. Whether the league should be made with part of the Princes, unless they were such as were strong enough to weigh the rest; since otherwise the King might be put to more charge in defending them than he should receive commodity thereby. [Three pages.]
	686. II. The opinions of the Commissioners upon each article. These, disposing of the doubts, are all favourable to the proposed league, save that in regard of Nos. 5 and 10, they think it not good for the King to enter into any league unless the Emperor and his successor Ferdinand are parties to it. And they suggest, that for the moving of the matter, John Frederick is the fittest person to hear of it first; because as he cannot but like, so he is better able to farther it than they, having a man, Francis Burckhardt [Burgarthus], who has been thrice in England, as fit as any in Germany to handle the subject. They might perhaps bring it to pass that the Germans should seek the league at the King's hands, and might entreat the King of the Romans to it; besides if the Emperor is dead, as some think he is, they might prevail with Ferdinand. Then were the King of the Romans spoken to by Frederick, he might communicate it to the Emperor, as if it were the desire of the Germans. And they conclude that it is likely that Ferdinand, knowing his brother's state, will practise what he can, and where he may, to procure all the friendship that is to be got; wherefore, if they neither speak for themselves nor others for them, he may speed himself of such friendship as thereafter he shall think their amity little needful. "He is already allied by marriage of his daughters with the Dukes of Bavaria and of Cleves; and now there is a marriage concluded between the King of Pole and his daughter the Duchess of Mantua. He is esteemed a Prince of a right and good nature, true of his word, much careful of his honour, and therefore is beloved of Protestants and Papists. He travailed very much with the Emperor at Villach, that the article of religion might pass as the Protestants did desire; and therefore will not, as we think, much stick to enter into any amity with England, notwithstanding our religion." [Seven pages.]
May 26. Brussels.	687. The Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine to Secretaries Sir William Petre and Sir William Cecil. According to instructions from the Council, have endeavoured to get a copy of the league between the Emperor and the Germans for defence of the Low Countries, which, when obtained, shall be sent. Think that if search is made among the books, a copy of the same league, translated into Latin by Mount, and sent from Augsburg in 1548, will be found. Were right glad to hear by the Prince of Piedmont that his Majesty is in good health, as it had been reported here that he was dead. Last night the Prince had sent to them the Ambassador of Savoy and a gentleman of his chamber to apprise them of this, and of the gentle entertainment which his servant had received from his Majesty, the Council, and the gentleman of the Privy Chamber. On the 19th had written to the Council viâ Antwerp, and beg that they may be informed by one of the clerks of the receipt of these, and such other letters as they may in future send that way, for avoiding of charge to his Majesty. Send the intelligence of things in Germany, as mentioned in their letter to the Council, but omitted through haste. It is said that Marquis Albert is at Tonevert on his way to Augsburg, there to visit the Fuggers, and to correct them for their usury, wherewith they have undone all the Princes of Germany. Have this afternoon been informed that the Emperor is very well amended, and has appointed to be in person at the diet assigned at Ulm on the 1st of August next. [Two pages.] Inclosed,
May 26. Brussels.	687. I. Letter from Heidelberg, 17th May 1553. Notices the successes of Marquis Albert over the people of Nuremburg, and of Henry Duke of Brunswick in the dioceses of Munster, Paderborn, and Osnaburg. The latter has compelled the three prelates to pay 260,000 dollars for peace, and has taken one of the sees of the Bishop of Munster for his own brother. [Latin. One page.]
May 31. Brussels.	688. The Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Are informed on good authority, that the Emperor undoubtedly is alive, but he is so weak and pale as he seems a very unlike man to continue. He covets to sit up and to walk, and is sometimes led between two, with a staff also in his hand; but like as he desires to be thus a foot, so immediately after he has been a little up, he must be laid down again, and feels himself so cold, as by no means he can attain any heat. The Legate here, has been advertised from France that the other Legate sent there was not only met and received solemnly by the Cardinals, but has had access twice to the King, and is so highly feasted and entertained, that it grieves this Legate to think how much his entertainment here is contrary. Hitherto, besides having no audience, whereby he keeps his house contrary to his desire, he has had no other attention shown to him than two visits from D'Arras, to pray him to be of patience. Wherefore, with snuffling countenance, he has told some of those who resort to him, how he thinks himself but homely handled. The Diet mentioned in their last is postponed to the 16th August. The Count Palatine, the three Bishops Electors, with the Commissaries of the absentees, except those of Duke Maurice, Duke of Brunswick and Marquis Albert, are now at Frankfort. It is thought that the Marquis will be present, having got a safe conduct; as will all the rest, especially John Frederick, whose advice in the greatest matters of their proceedings, the Emperor has instructed his agents to use, and whose lodging is already prepared. It is reported that Duke Maurice and the Duke of Brunswick purpose to aid the Bishops against Marquis Albert, the malice between the latter and Maurice being so great, that Albert cannot bear to hear his name, and denounces him as a violator of his oath and promise. Albert having lost 300 men before Forehem, a town of the Bishop of Bamberg, has raised the siege and gone to Wynsham, a town belonging to Nuremburg: this is contrary to the last accounts that he was going to Augsburg. Send copy of the league between the Emperor and the Empire; in which the Ducatus Lothrichiæ and Marchionatus Sacri Imperii mean Lovain and its vicinity, and the Marquisate of Antwerp. [Three pages.]
May 31. [Greenwich.]	689. The Council to the Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby, and Sir Richard Morysine. Thank them for their letter of the [26], touching the matter of the league. A fortnight since his Majesty has sent to the King of the Romans and Maximilian a special man, the particular points of whose letters and instructions shall be forwarded as a schedule herewith. Urge them to essay to have speedy access to the Emperor, as Wotton and his colleagues in France, in like manner, wait for their answer from Brussels. The French King lately sent Secretary De L'Aubespine to visit his Majesty, with whom he was on Sunday last, finding him well gmended and in good case to speak with. Desire him to watch the doings of Cardinal Dandino, who, although he has not yet had access to the Emperor, may be occupied with some other practises. [Three pages. Draft.]
May 31. [Greenwich?]	690. The same to Peter Vannes. Thank him for his sundry letters, and request him to continue his accustomed diligence. His Majesty in his desire to arrange a peace had sent, as his Ambassadors to the Emperor, the Bishop of Norwich, Sir Philip Hoby and Sir Richard Morysine; and to the French King Dr. Wotton, Dean of Canterbury and York, Sir William Pickering, and Sir Thomas Chaloner; yet, because of the Emperor's long and great sickness having prevented access of the Ambassadors and the Legates of Rome, nothing is done yet of any consequence. As certain vain and untrue rumours of the King's health have been prevalent and may have reached Venice, signify to him that his Highness indeed has been sick of a cold taken, and thereupon a cough ensuing now of a good space; but, thanks to the living God, he is at this present past all danger and well amended, having of late given audience himself both to the French Ambassador and others also. [Two pages and a half. Draft.]
May 31.	691. Same to Dr. Wotton, Sir William Pickering, and Sir Thomas Chaloner. Although De L'Aubespine, who has seen his Majesty, bears with him a special letter of thanks, desire them to wait upon the French King, and express his Majesty's gratitude for the affection shown by the mission of De L'Aubespine. His Majesty is very well amended, and in good towardness of perfect recovery of his late indisposition. His Majesty will continue his efforts to effect a peace between the French King and the Emperor. Instruct them to watch the proceedings of the Cardinal Legate, to endeavour to learn the object of his coming, and how he is likely to succeed therein. [Draft. Four pages.]
May [End of].	692. Plan of the town of Terouanne, with the position of the besieging troops around it. [A pen and ink sketch.]