|
April 5.
Venice. |
313. Peter Vannes to the Council. Since his last letter to their
Lordships of the 21st March, has received theirs of 26th Feb.
by M. Bartholomew Compaigne. Has had various conversations
with the Ambassadors and divers other gentlemen of the state in
reference to the proceedings against the Bishop of Winchester. The
French Ambassador said, that although he had judged the said
Bishop to be a learned man, yet notwithstanding in France he was
always taken for a man of great pertinacy in all his doings, and
nothing their friend. Had also on Easter-day communicated to the
Seigniory the whole matter, but it is little spoken of here, although
perhaps some curious persons might suppose otherwise, for here it is
thought most necessary, and exactly observed, that for the conservation of great estates, obediency and conformity of orders ought
chiefly to be advanced and maintained. Has perceived their Lordships' remarks concerning Horsmaden [Horsmonden], and has already
appointed a very discreet and wise friend, who is lately gone to Rome
on private business, to bring himself by some feigned occasion in ac
quaintance with such fugitives and wandering Englishmen as be there,
allowing in some part their sayings, to the intent that the more
boldly they may enlarge their communication, as Friar Peto, Pates,
and a Scot, being Bishops titulares et nulla tenentes in England
and Ireland. Horsmonden has divers kinds of bare shifts, using
commonly one of them, appointing one way and taking another,
not tarrying long in a place, shifting his journeys according to his
wit. After secretly leaving Venice, he went to Milan, where he met
a person, from whom, making his moan, as he was wont to do, that
he was robbed of great sums of money, making himself of the King's
blood, and going in great affairs, he borrowed 20 crowns and
certain letters of favour. Thence he went to Lucca, having with him
Winslow, showing secretly that he knew Vannes well in England,
but saying nothing of his often dining with him in Venice, boasting
that if some gentleman of Lucca who had for a while been Ambassador to the Emperor, should see him, he would speak with him cap in
hand. For all this, being nothing set by, he went his way, wandering
all his journey on foot for falling, though as he pretends, for his pleasure and exercise. So that wherever he may presently be, he is
no doubt known for a light merchant. Such light wanderers, for all
their devices and babbling words, can do no prejudice to England,
as all the noblemen and gentlemen of Italy are greatly affectionate
to the King's Majesty. As to what he had written to their Lordships respecting Englishmen repairing hither under the protest of
studying languages and seeing countries, all he means to do is to
ascertain after what sort they departed out of England, and as nigh as
he can to have knowlege of their conversations and communications.
Has publicly denied the report set forth by the Bishop of Rome's
Legate, that a number of soldiers were going out of England into
Ireland to defend that country and for rebellion. Has no certain
knowledge of the Turk's preparations, but was informed by a friend
that he heard the Cardinal of Trent say that there was likely to be
no war in Hungary this year except defensive skirmishings on the
frontiers. Nevertheless the Venetians prepare to send 300 or 400
men for the defence of Corfu. The Prince of Spain is expected in
Italy, with a good number of horse and foot; some think he will go
to Spain, others that he will spend the summer in Italy, and levy
large contributions, for what use unknown. |
|
P.S. Two days ago a young Scotsman of the name of John Bog,
brother to Nichol Bog, of the Lohene [Lothian], servant to Lord
Bothwell, visited him on his way from Rome to England through
Germany. Was informed by this Bog that a certain Scottish friar,
blind of both his eyes, named Archbishop of Armachan, accompanied
with another Archbishop and Bishop of Ireland, being both Irishmen,
was prepared to go to Ireland after Easter, the Bishop of Rome having
granted to him divers kinds of faculties, as pardons, dispensations,
and the like. He has got the palm which the Bishop of Rome carried
last Palm Sunday, and has caused it to be dressed solemnly, to be
taken with him into Ireland, there to make a relic of the same. Bog
had travelled with this blind Bishop to Rome from France, the French
King at his departing having given the Bishop a certain reward and
letters of recommendation to the Bishop of Meryposey [Mirepoix]
beside Narbonne now at Rome, who should both bear his charge and
farther his business there, and in whose house the same blind Bishop
with two of his men resided. Bog also told him that, being in Genoa
at the time of Andrew Doria's departing to Africa, he there met
Horsmonden, whom he had well known previously both in Scotland
and in France. Addressing him by the name of Horsmonden, he
denied it, saying that it was a name given him for pleasure by the
Scottish Queen, and that his real name was Stafford, being bastard
son to the Duke of Buckingham, and that he did there labour to be
retained on wages and to go with Doria into Barbary. Horsmonden,
Bog described as a banished man from England, who being a servant
of the Scottish Queen, passed into France, and while there always
associated with one Stourton, till at length, by reason of his ill
behaviour with certain Italians, he was compelled to leave the
country. He told Bog that when at Milan he had met with a Dutch
merchant belonging some time to the Duke of Suffolk, to whom he
showed that he had coming out of England from the Lord Stafford
his brother, by exchange into Antwerp, the sum of 100 crowns
(doubtless a lie), the receipt whereof being far from his journey, he
agreed with this Dutch merchant to receive of him upon his credit
certain ready money, and had a bill unto Sardinia, there to receive
certain harness to the value of 30 crowns and 70 crowns in ready
money, for the repayment of which he had given to the Dutchman
his letter of credit to Lord Stafford and the merchant in Antwerp.
Bog thinks plainly that he has gone to Africa in the galleys. Thus
their Lordships may see how this man shifts the world with lyings
and crafty inventions. [Eight pages.] Annexed, |
|
313. I. "Intelligence from Mr. Peter Vannes," containing
chiefly the incidents mentioned in subsequent letter of
26th April. [Italian. Two pages.] |
| April 6. |
314. Draft letter. The Council to Sir Richard Morysine. Have
received his letters of the 10th, 16th, and 24th of March. Recommend him to reciprocate the great gentleness and familiarity of the
French Ambassador and to use all such parts of friendship and good
office towards him as may answer to the good amity which is between
their masters. On the sending hither of a special gentleman, Sir
William Pickering had been sent to the French King on the affairs
of Scotland. The King's men of war have ever since these last wars
kept a little house near the frontiers of Berwick, which the Scots
call Edrington and the English Cawe Mill. They have also forbidden
the Scots to fish upon any part of the river of Tweed, and have held
in their private possession some part of the debateable ground adjoining to the West Marches, which before the wars lay waste and
common to both the realms. These things, which are neither of any
value nor indeed worth the keeping, are agreed to remain as they
did before these wars. A few hostages, which have been remaining
here for the ransom or re-entry of some of those prisoners that were
taken at Solomoss [Solway Moss], are agreed to be restored; and
it is agreed that their merchants and ships coming into any of the
King's ports, by tempest or for want of victuals, shall be used as they
have been before the wars, and English subjects and ships heretofore
in Scotland. For the full appeasing of these, which were all the differences between the Scots and them, the gentleman of France that
before was here has returned, and goes straightway to Scotland with
the Master of Erskine; and Commissioners for both realms are to
meet out of hand upon the frontiers to end all these matters. The
Emperor's Ambassador had been with them six or seven days before
they heard what the Emperor had said to Morysine as to the matters
of the Lady Mary and Mr. Chamberlain. He was very earnest to have
a direct answer how the Lady Mary should be used touching her
masses, and how he should be used himself. They told him that as
they perceived Morysine's earnest talk in matters of religion had
somewhat offended the Emperor, the King would forthwith send
Doctor Wotton to his Majesty with such answer as should in honour
and reason give good cause of contentment; and touching himself,
he should continue his masses as he had done; but if thereafter, upon
any necessary respect for the conservation of the policy of the realm,
it should be otherwise ordered, he shall have reasonable warning
thereof. Dr. Wotton is now almost in full order to go. The Ambassador said he thought the Emperor would be well enough contented to have an answer from Morysine, and would like his continuance so as he had advertisements hence not to attempt the
Emperor in their matters of religion. The Ambassador seemed
nothing so earnest at the doing of his message as he was before.
[Four pages.] |
[1551 ?]
April 6.
Rome. |
315. "Advertisements from Rome." The French King had written to Cardinal Tournon, from Janville, on 25th of March, that he
was much laboured by Duke Maurice and other confederates in Germany to hasten his journey. The confederates were very strong in
the field, and had already passed Frankfort, meaning shortly to join
with the French King. The Constable was at Tulle with the foreward. The French King will bring with him 13,000 Almains;
17,000 Gascons and Picards, footmen well exercised in the wars in
the name of Venturers; 1,500 men of arms, most part barded; 2,000
light horsemen; and 60 pieces of ordnance. These have with them
a bridge drawn with 800 horse, in such wise that there may pass at
one time in the way of battle ordnance, horse and foot, and they are
very willing to follow this enterprise. The French King's money
had safely arrived in Strasburg. He has left in Picardy 500 men of
arms, 600 light horsemen, 12 ensigns of foot, and 6,000 Swiss. He
has revoked Cardinal Tournon. The said Cardinal has told the
Bishop of Rome that the French King has no inclination to war
with him and the Turk, but if the Bishop will make war, he shall
always defend himself without any thought for offending the Church
of Rome. At Rome it is thought for a destiny that the ruin thereof
is nigh at hand. The rumour of Pietro Strozzi having lately been
in Italy in disguise is untrue. Proposals had been made to the
Bishop of Rome by the Frenchmen that he should withdraw his
army from Mirandola: certain conditions made, of which the French
are not likely to accept. The Parmese have lately taken some
castles from the Imperialists, and destroyed some forts constructed
by the Marquis of Marignano. The Bishop of Rome is in an evil
case on both sides. "The last of March, somewhat afore midnight,
was seen at Rome, over Castle St. Angelo, a great fire in the air like
a great round ball, giving a great light the space of one quarter of an
hour, insomuch that for the time a man might have read any letter;
and then the said fire brake in three pieces, the one towards the Bishop
of Rome's palace, the second towards the people of Rome, and the third
towards the River of Tiber; being these reckoned tokens of fearful
signals." The Emperor does all he can to have in his hands the
Prince of Solerno, who for his safety presently resides at Padua. He
is a man of great credit and reputation in the realm of Naples, highly
beloved there and elsewhere, and much esteemed by the banishment
of the Emperor, into whose hands he seemeth nothing willing to
come. The King of Romans endeavours to raise 3,000 or 4,000
footmen in Italy to be sent into Transylvania, but as yet few will
venture that way, the rather for the daily advertisements from those
quarters of the great preparations making by the Turk. [One page
and a half.] |
April 7.
Augsburg. |
316. Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Hearing that the
Lady Regent meant to make towards Flanders to-day, had on
Saturday last requested an audience, which was granted the next
morning at nine o'clock. Her Grace's professions of friendship on
part of the Emperor and herself were great. Had told her that the
news of this Court, which are that three French ships should be
going into Ireland and drowned by the way, made him afraid the
English should have good need of powder ere they should have leave
to fetch it out of Flanders, if her Grace did not both help him to
speak, and after help to speed such as should be appointed to fetch
it. That the Emperor had given him a very gentle answer, showing
a desire to furnish as much as could be conveniently spared; yet he
saw the suit would finally be committed to her Grace's order, and
therefore prayed her as her plenty might serve their need to help
them. He had very good words, "if there were to spare, and we
should have occasion to spend powder, we should," &c.; but his
prayer is and shall be that there may be no more need of powder
than they have will to afford it, and then it must either be wanted or
fought hard for before it is had, or shortly after. M. D'Arras had
been at Council with her Grace a great while before he came. Whatsoever the matter was, he saw by her countenance she was in dumps,
although, smiling twice or thrice, she did what she could to keep
cares in the dark. Here be more posting and little audience given
to foreign matters. The Bishop of Jaen, as yet, has not spoken with
the Emperor since his coming. Pigghinus would fain take his leave.
The King of Sweden's men hitherto cannot get to his Majesty. The
King of Poland's Ambassador has been there these two months upon
taking his leave; he abideth his good hour. It is said that the
Queen of Poland is either stark dead or not like to live, and that
France will practise with him for a marriage. Has waited upon
two Polish gentlemen that came to see the Lady Elizabeth's Grace.
Knows that they both went home great praisers of her person and of
her bringing up. The Frenchmen that were here have gone, as their
Ambassador told Bernardine, towards Vienna. Cannot imagine why
they should travel that way, unless it be that France may give from
thence better advices to the Turk. Rumours here that France
meaneth a voyage into Ireland. Letters from their Ambassador at
the Turk's Court had arrived at Venice late at night. In the morning they called a Council, and forthwith despatched 600 new soldiers
to Corfu, with money and victuals for themselves and those already
there. The Turk is said to have at Vallona, hard against Italy, 200
vessels to ship over horses, every vessel able well to carry little lack
of 40 horses. To-day, Signor Gastaldo, who was Master of the
Emperor's camp in his wars of Germany, goes towards Vienna.
Some Spaniards lately slain by the Turks. Africa not thought to
be the mark the Turk shooteth at. Italy and Sicily never fitter to
be assaulted, both being so weary of the Spaniards that they care
not who comes, so they may trudge away. Great dearth of corn
and victuals in both. The General Council, it is said, will be prorogued to September; because of inconvenience to those that are
called and are now on their way to it, supposes they will counterfeit
a beginning, but there be few likelihoods that it should last any
while. Germany is unquiet, and like to wax madder now that cold
and snow have almost left. Two of these French gentlemen that
came hither of late did communicate at the Protestants' church under
both kinds. Duke of Oldenburg is said to have entered into Magdeburg with 300 men well horsed and well hearted. Will know more
of the matters of that town by copy of a letter received from thence
sent herewith (missing). Since then news have come that on the
25th March the inhabitants had given Duke Maurice's men another
great overthrow, and taken prisoner his chief captain, Peter Pfefferkorn, with 200 more, whom, after disarming, they drove altogether
before them into the town. Mutual complaints of the Emperor's
Council and Duke Maurice; the former thinking that the Duke
might have done more than he hath, and the latter that he was
promised better aid than hath been sent to him. Men mutter that
the Duke will procure himself no longer the hatred of Germany by
farther offering displeasure to these men. The three Bishops-Electors and the Palsgrave, who have been always confederated, are, as
it is said, together; some think for the Coadjutoria, others because
the Emperor has taken into his hands Superiorem Palatinum, and
the decease of this man doth make a claim ad Inferiorem. The
Court will be but meanly furnished now King Maximilian has gone,
the Queen going, and the Electors and Princes have left. The Prince
of Spain is also ready to depart. The Emperor has here a guard of
2,000 foot, and it is said intends to bring 1,500 cavalry into the town;
if so, the horses there, that now can hardly get meat, must starve,
or seek victuals in other places, there being no hay within a dozen
English miles round about. People supposed his Majesty would have
removed hence, because wine and all kinds of victuals wax not only
unreasonable for their price, but not to be had for their scarceness;
yet now it is thought they shall lie here most part of the summer. Physicians think it perilous for his Majesty to remove till his
health is stronger. Knows not whether it were better to be at the
expense of removing where things may be had cheaper, or to remain
here, dearth notwithstanding. Trusts their Lordships will devise,
or rather have devised already, some help for him. [Four pages.
A few lines in cipher, deciphered.] |
| April 10. |
317. Draft instructions by King Edward VI., with the advice of
his Council, to Dr. Wotton, Dean of Canterbury and York, sent to
the Emperor as Ambassador. He is to explain that no offence was
intended by his Majesty, and if any discontent has been caused by
the over-earnest speaking of religion to M. D'Arras or the Emperor
by the Ambassador now revoked, it is to be ascribed to the excessive
zeal of the man. That his Majesty, on grounds of natural equity,
expects that his Ambassador in Flanders shall have the same free
exercise of his religion in Flanders as the Emperor's has in England.
And in regard to the Lady Mary, that no promise of the exercise of
religion had ever been made; that a prescribed form of common
prayer has been established by Parliament, and that as a subject she
is bound, as well as his Majesty, thereby, so should he not but do
unjustly to violate it, or in any point to agree to the breaking of it.
[Ten pages.]
Two copies of the above, with slight variations, attached. |
April. 11.
[Greenwich.] |
318. Instructions by the King and Council to Sir William
Pickering, sent to France to notify to the French King the appointment of the Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry [Richard Sampson],
Sir Robert Bowes, Sir Leonard Beckwith, and Sir Thomas Chaloner
as Commissioners to meet with those of France, for settling the
boundaries of Scotland and England, about the beginning of May
next, and to commence his duties as Ambassador on the departure of
Sir John Masone. [Draft. Seven pages.] |
April 14.
Augsburg. |
319. Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. So long as he hears
not from their Lordships, he will pay no attention to the rumours
that come abroad. And yet when it is reported that the French
King meaneth to be busy in Ireland, and his Ambassador here says it
is most false, he might both answer others, if he knew the state of
matters at home, and believe the Ambassador as he should see cause.
It is said to be very certain that the French King has 28 galleys at
Marseilles, and has lately sent thither 140,000 crowns to do such
things withal as are in hand; there is also much making of biscuits
and such like provision. Further, that a Turkish galiot has arrived
there, to solicit the French King to be in readiness, that both their
forces may be abroad at the same time. The Emperor has also new
ships and galleys at Barcelona. The Prince of Spain's departure is
delayed, either because the French galleys may cumber his passage
or because Andrew Doria has not yet returned from the succouring
of Africa. Some say he means to seek out Dragut Rey, in hope to find
him in certain straits where he must either fight or yield. Heard
this day that Doria is very sick, and some think that by this time
he is stark dead. Was told yesterday that letters from Venice
mention the capture of a castle of the Duke of Ferrara by Ferrante
Gonzaga; but heard to-day that it is a castle belonging to Parma,
called Brusa. Whether it be the one or the other, it is thought that
war will follow. Yesterday came from the Bishop of Rome one
Dandino, a bishop, to commune with the Emperor in matters of
Parma; so that the Bishop has three bishops here, who severally
practise with M. D'Arras. Dandino, having risen by the house of
Farnese, is like to favour Duke Octavio's desires, being thought to
be full Farnese, as the Bishop of Jaen is thought to be Imperial;
but both, notwithstanding, use all their friendship to the service of
a third. Some reckon that the Bishop of Rome, either to dash the
Council or for some other reason, so mindeth to cause a jar between
the two Princes, that he will give to the Emperor all the interest that
Rome has in Parma, and suffer him after to deal with France for the
recovery of it as best he can. Carolo Vic [Carlowicius], agent here for
Duke Maurice, was sent four days ago to his master by the Emperor,
with instructions, it is supposed, to agree those of Magdeburg,
finding less hope now to do them harm than at the beginning.
Their Lordships must take all these things as reports, and not as of
his own certain knowledge. Hears that an old fellow with a long
beard has gone from this Court to serve the Lady Mary; he was a
good while servant to Chapuis, and after that to Dilphius, and he
has letters, to whom Morysine wots not, from the French Ambassador,
which he wrote with leisure and very diligently. Three days since
the Admiral of Flanders wrote hither that the French King's naval
preparations are great, and thought it convenient the Emperor
should have a good eye to his doings. To-day or to-morrow the
Emperor entereth into the Diet, and it is thought will not tarry in
it past 10 or 12 days: if he means to accord with Magdeburg
and Bremen, as some suppose, it is like enough other things are in
hand. All men think certainly that war will be proclaimed ere
May be quite expired. Pigghinus has taken leave of the Emperor,
and goes, they say, to the Council. The Emperor has again written
to all his, that they fail not to be at Trent on the day appointed.
Thinks that the more show there is of a Council, the less it is meant;
and that the Emperor's taking of guaiacum and writing of new letters
is but to make men imagine that he thinks of nothing but of the
Council; for if the Council were certainly meant, the first letters from
the Emperor would serve well enough to command as many of his
subjects as must and mean to obey. Yesterday heard that the
Bishop of Rome has imprisoned two Bishops in the Castle of
St. Angelo, because they have become Protestants: one of these is
the Bishop of Bergamo, a Venetian of good house; the other's name he
knows not. Paulus Vergerius has set them a goodly example; if these
be come, more may follow. Vergerius has done a marvellous deal of
good by leaving his bishopric and forsaking his hope of growing
great in the world; but he has done much more good by printing
daily of new books, which go in great numbers into Italy. Many
of these are dedicated to the King's Majesty. The man has left all
to follow Christ, and lives very hardly. Many there are can
gladlier commend well doing, than provide that virtue go not
a-begging. "Bucer's death has raised up again the bruit that was
here, that we are become Jews. The tale is thus told: the King's
Majesty asking Bucer how the Bishop of Rome's authority might be
quite extinct? His answer was, 'Sir, Messias is not yet come,
and therefore the authority that Christ hath given him is to be
accounted as none.'" Their Lordships see what lust they have to
lie, that lie thus, not so much as colouring it with some likelihood of
truth. "Bucer is safely laid up, and our country not the worse of a
mite that they, which know no more of Christ than his name and
dwelling-place, do take us all for damned souls." Many Spaniards
and Italians this Lent past went to the Bishop of Rome's Nuncio to
be absolved, for that they had served in the wars the King of England. Yesterday saw a letter from Ferdinando's Court that as yet
little harm has been done on either part, but the Bassa of Buda has
gathered a great power, rather to defend himself than annoy others,
although some think he waits a larger force from Adrianople and
Belgrade, and then, on all sides at once, to set upon Transylvania.
Sends herewith a letter from Wittenberg to an honest man of this
town, containing the matters which have been done at Magdeburg
during the last month. [Four pages.] Incloses, |
|
319. I. From Wittenberg, 23d March. Here they are building
boats for making a bridge across the Elbe. They make
frequent sallies, and beyond all expectation defeat
Maurice's troops. They intercept ammunition and
provisions and convey them into the city. So vigorously
do they fight, that two days ago heavy firing was heard
about 12 miles from this, and is still occasionally. All
say that it is quite impossible they can take the city. The
day before these letters were written many country people
came to Wittenberg severely wounded, who said that they
had saved their lives by concealing themselves behind the
dead bodies. When Maurice's troops surrounded the gate
to prevent issue from the city, these countrymen were told
to leave or abide the consequences. While they delayed
2,000 soldiers rushed out of the city, slew about 300 of
them, and attacking a large number of troops who were
defending the trenches, killed some, dispersed others,
captured several together with a standard, and took them
to the city. These on the same night they dismissed,
with white rods in their hands, after disarming them
and writing down their names. John Margrave of
Custrin desired to reconcile them to Maurice, and a
convention was held at Corbet, but without results. [One
page.] |
April 18.
Amboise. |
320. Sir John Masone to the Council. George Paris, the Irish
agent, mentioned in previous letters, has arrived, in company with
a great gentleman from Ireland, offering the service of the rebels,
with their country, to the French King, if he will send troops
thither. They have had very good countenance both of the King
and of the Constable, and have been in communication with the
Bishop of Rome's Ambassador; but it is understood that they have
been informed they may look for no aid hence. Details the political
intrigues and differences among the Scots at the Court. The Emperor is exceedingly displeased with the Pope, whom he believes to
have been a worker in the affair of Parma; and it seems that he has
no fancy to be doing with the French King, by whom he has been
so pricked lately, as, if he had any mind thereunto, he could not
have kept his patience. Rumours that the Emperor mindeth to have
war with the English. The Scottish Queen's shipping is hasted very
much, and it is supposed that she will embark a month sooner than
was determined. General musters through France. No great haste
making there for sending to the General Council. The reports as
to the Turk's intentions against Africa are dying away. The
frontier of France upon Spain is very straitly kept. The King of
Navarre has been dangerously ill, but is recovering. Lady Fleming
departed hence with child by the French King, and it is thought
that upon the arrival of the Queen Dowager in Scotland she shall
come again to fetch another. States his objections to corporations.
Complains of the long absence of Pickering, of his continued feeble
health, want of money, and relative discomforts and inconveniences.
[Nine pages and a half.] |
| Eod. die. |
Copy of the above in Sir John Masone's Letter-Book. [Nine
pages. Printed by Tytler, Vol. i., p. 351.] |
April 19.
Brussels. |
321. Sir Thomas Chamberlain to same. A Secretary of this
Court, named Matthew Strick, leaves in four or five days for Scotland, in the capacity of Ambassador resident there, and a like Ambassador from Scotland is expected. Bremen and Hamburg are reported
to have agreed with the Emperor, but Magdeburg still holds out.
Great warlike preparations are made in Spain, and all the merchant-vessels are pressed into service: their destination is not known,
but is supposed to be for another voyage to Algiers. [One page.] |
April 20.
Greenwich. |
322. The Council to Sir John Masone. Sir William Pickering
has been detained by them until the Scottish matter should be farther
proceeded in. He now leaves, and they request he may be thoroughly
instructed by Masone before he enters upon his official duties. [Half
a page. Copy.] |
April 21.
Augsburg. |
323. Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Had received their
letters of the 6th curt. on the 17th. With reference to their instructions how he shall behave himself to the French Ambassador, shall so
follow their order as he shall be thought friendly enough. Touching the complaint elsewhere of his earnestness, having already
communicated to them what had been said on either side, is content to leave the cause in their hands, feeling assured that he may
upon good cause rather be blamed of them for saying too little,
than worthy to be shent for saying anything too much. If Mr.
Wotton comes to tarry (as he prays God he do), he hopes he shall
be better able to warrant all his words spoken to the Emperor, than
able to excuse himself if he be charged for that he said no more.
The matters of Parma wax every day warmer; and there is much
talk in the Consistory at Rome against Octavio. They say the
Bishop means first to excommunicate, and thereafter, if there be
any that dare trust him with money, to make war against Octavio.
Dandino, his Secretary and Nuncio, has long conferences with
Mons. D'Arras, and is much made of by the Emperor, with whom
he has been twice. It is said that the Bishop would fain have the
Emperor to win with him, and lend him money till he be better
able to make wars. His friends say, his Holiness will not suffer
unpunished that Octavio, confaloniere and captain of his Church,
shall work this spite to the see apostolical. Dandino has been
with the French Ambassador, charging the King his master with
lacks in amity that he should take Octavio's part against the Church.
Mons. Marillac, as he says, willed him to give the Bishop counsel
not to be too busy with Octavio, since if his master has taken him
and his town in protection, he is sure he will do his best to protect
him against all men; and the Ambassador thinks that neither the
Emperor nor the Pope dare offer any harm to Octavio. Dandino
looks hourly for his despatch from the Emperor, who wise men
suppose is afraid to trust the Bishop of Rome, since in leaving so
suddenly the French King, by whom he was made Pope, he has
taught the Emperor that for a need he can deceive his best friend.
Perhaps the Emperor thinks that if he lent the Bishop money there
should be some hurry in Italy to disturb the General Council, and
thereafter the Bishop would easily be entreated to leave Octavio and
Parma alone. The French Ambassador says that he knows certainly the Electors will not come there till September; and there is
much talk that his master has commanded every man of his bishops
to remain in his diocese for six months. The French King has
commanded his Ambassador at Rome to say that he has made no
promise to send to the Council, and that he will wait to see whether
the German, for whom it is called and Trent appointed, come thither
or no. There is a muttering that in the Bishop of Treves'
country soldiers are secretly appointed to be in readiness for the Emperor's service. Letters from Venice, received on the 19th, mention
that the Turk has sent Dragut Rey to Constantinople: his army is very
strong, and it is thought will shortly do much business in Hungary
by land, and Africa by sea. Last night Francis, a Counsellor to
Duke Maurice, came here and told Bernardine that he had orders
from his master to visit Morysine, the English being the nation that
he bare affection to. He also told him that Magdeburg is still
besieged, but as the Emperor will lay out no money, it is no marvel
that things go no faster forward. He confesses that many of the
Duke's subjects refuse to go against Magdeburg, and will rather go
to prison than obey. Duke Maurice has many disadvantages:
1, that he came by his dukedom as he did; 2, that he succeeds a
man so loved and honoured of all people; 3, that he is thus occupied against Magdeburg. Francis much laments his master's infelicity, that for the service of the Emperor at this time he loses the
good will of his country and subjects. He brought with him this
paper (missing), containing three suns, and says that he saw them
himself with many others. Had heard of it seven or eight days
ago, and thought that they who see so oft more moons than they
should, may sometimes find more suns than other men can; yet
now thinks such a thing might be seen, and let astronomers divine
the causes of such disorder in heaven. The opinions of Pliny on
such wonders. Heard here that there were three tides in the
Thames in nine hours; if so, their Lordships will see whether these
tides there and these three suns here were about the same time or
no. Duke Otho Henry, brother of Duke Philip, has written to him
by his agent here, who in a long and earnest talk has besought him
to request their Lordships to be suitors to the King for the Duke to
have part of the pension due for a year and three quarters to Duke
Philip, to whom as brother he becomes the right heir. The Duke
makes no claim, but a suit, to which he is rather forced by necessity
than encouraged by title to challenge as due. The Emperor has taken
away his land, more, according to his agent's statement, because he
misliked Duke Philip's serving his Majesty than that any fault of
his had made forfeiture thereof. Had informed the agent that he
could not write to the Council, but would mention the matter to one
or two of their Lordships, with whom he might be bolder. Perceives
that his whole stay now is upon his brother the Count Palatine; a
little, if it might be spared, would at such season be thought a great
deal. If he would receive the Interim, it is supposed he might with
favour save his lands again; but he is very constant in his religion,
and knows that if he outlives the Emperor, he shall come by his
own well enough; and if he dies before, he supposes he shall not
long want it. His agent, Dr. Vitus Polandus, is a handsome man.
Desires to know what answer he shall make. Has just heard that
Dandino left this forenoon, but he cannot tell after what sort and
with what conditions he was despatched. [Four pages.] |
April 22.
Amboise. |
324. Sir John Masone to the Council. The name of the person who
came with George Paris is Cormac O'Connor, the eldest, as he says,
of nine brothers all alive; and he states that his father is the great
worker of all this rebellion, and could never be induced to submit,
notwithstanding the general coming in of the rest of the Irish
nobility, in the time of King Henry VIII., although he has one
house within a stone's cast of the English pale, and another within
20 miles of it. He charges the French King's messengers with
causing the whole stir, and has requested from the Constable an aid
of 5,000 men, which, with their own force, would suffice not only
for defence but for offence. He has been put off with fair words,
and is likely to receive nothing else; but the Queen Dowager of
Scotland and the Vidame would fain have them helped. The Scots
here are much discontented, and mislike the yoke that foolishly they
have put their heads in. Mr. Dudley and Mr. Stukeley, who have
been made very much of, return to England in seven or eight days.
Schertel, the Protestant captain of Augsburg, despairing of pardon
from the Emperor, has within these three days come to the Court
and having offered his service to the French King, is very well
entertained for the first coming. Hears nothing of Pickering, whose
tarrying he can only impute to his own ill-luck. To-day news have
arrived that the Queen of Bohemia has been brought to bed of a
son, and that both her husband and the Prince of Spain were departing for Spain, the one to see his wife, and the other to keep the
ordinary Courts held every fourth year in Castile, Aragon, and
Catalonia, to the great advantage of the King. [Two pages and a
half.] |
| Eod. die |
Copy of the preceding in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book. [Two
pages and a half.] |
April 26.
Venice. |
325. Peter Vannes to the Council. Letters from Corfu of the 5th
curt. state that at Lavallona great provision of stores, biscuits, and
horsemen is being made for the Turk's army, which amount to the
number of 150 galleys, including those under the command of Dragut.
This intelligence is confirmed by another letter of the 10th, which
farther mentions that a small galley was passed to Constantinople,
sent, as supposed, by the French King. From Constantinople
letters of the 21st and 25th likewise speak of the active preparations
of the Turk, who already has sent forth 60 galleys. In consequence
of these movements the Senators of Venice have, notwithstanding
their friendship with the Turk, sent divers provisions, with 700 or
800 men to Corfu; and on the next advertisement from thence
intend to appoint a general providetor for the sea, and send out a
competent number of galleys for defence of their places on the sea
coast. The Prince of Spain and King of Bohemia said to leave for
Italy by 1st of May, and to be met near Trent by Don Fernando
Gonzaga, with a great number of horsemen, who shall escort them
to Genoa, where the Prince shall take shipping for Spain; the King
of Bohemia remaining in Italy to await the coming of his wife from
Spain in the same fleet that conveys the Prince. Letters from
Rome of the 18th state that the Bishop thereof being sore aggrieved
with Duke Octavio for the agreement with the French King as to
Parma, made without his consent, has cited him to appear within a
month under pain of being denounced rebel to the Church; and
that Cardinal Farnese has posted from Rome to endeavour to induce
the Duke to annul the agreement and restore Parma to the Church,
having in recompence therefor the dukedom of Camerino, with
10,000 crowns yearly. Some think that the Cardinal only goes to
avoid the dangers of war, or to the French King in reference to
these matters. The Bishop of Rome has lately sent to Ancona,
Bologna, and elsewhere to raise 300 horse and 3,000 foot, as he says,
for defence of his places on the coast against the Turk; but others
think for the purpose of employing them against Duke Octavio for
the recovery of Parma, aided by the Emperor. The Duke of Ferrara
is reported to be about to confederate with the Venetians for the
defence of their confines and in the meanwhile with diligence
fortifies his holds. Notwithstanding all these rumours, letters from
Rome assert that the Council shall be held as appointed, and
Cardinal Crescentio being appointed president, has already left
Bologna for Trent; and a friend informs him that by special
messengers sent from the Emperor, the French King, and the Bishop
of Rome jointly, King Edward shall be laboured and required for
the sending unto said Council. This seems unlikely, the rather
because he sees no hearty agreement between the French King and
the Bishop of Rome. There is another rumour that the French
King will not suffer the prelates of France to attend the Council,
but rather to have a Consilium Nationale within his realm. If
so, a schism and great disorder in the Church of Rome may be
engendered, of which they are greatly afraid. The Bishop of
Bergamo, a Venetian, of the house of Soranza, and kinsman of the
Ambassador appointed for England, being a man of 50 years of
age, well learned, a preacher, and keeping good order in the clergy
of his diocese, has been imprisoned by the Bishop of Rome for
matters of religion. Cardinal Pole had much spoken in his favour
to the Bishop of Rome, and he answered that if his heart were
well known touching these matters, perchance he should otherwise
appear than he is known. [Four pages.] |
April 26.
Venice. |
326. Peter Vannes to the Council. Since writing to them to-day,
has learned that last night the Seigniory received letters from Con
stantinople of the 29th ult., confirming all the previous reports of the
Turk's preparations. His fleet is to consist of 150 galleys, and to
be joined by all the pirates and robbers of the sea, of which sort
Christendom is more afraid than of the Turk's own galleys. Although
pretended for the recovery of Africa, yet being far beyond what such
an enterprise requires, it is thought they will attack Naples and
other places, and that there is a great intelligence between the Turk
and the French King therein. Towards the cost of the Venetians'
defence the Bishop of Rome has granted to them certain tenths or
dimes to be levied from their clergy; and therein they have used
the said Bishop's authority, rather for a ceremony than otherwise.
This business of Parma is like to kindle a great fire. M. de Thermes
has spoken very largely to the Bishop of Rome in his master's name,
threatening that if the said Bishop should show himself against the
French King and his friends, otherwise than right required, his
Majesty would withdraw from the Church of Rome, and see his Church
of France well ordered, for which purpose he shall not want good and
well learned prelates and bishops within his realm. But the Bishop
is in great fury, crying out against Duke Octavio for the having of
Parma out of his hands, in all things proceeding as Signor Dondego
[Don Diego] appoints him in the Emperor's name, and saying that
rather than fail, he will go in his own person in that expedition.
He has required the aid of Venice, as a member of the Church, but
they will not meddle, intending only to mind their own affairs, and
keeping of friendship with fair and loving words. The Duke of
Ferrara, who always desires to live in peace, is, we understand, in
great agony of mind, being importuned to join one side or other.
He is rather French than Imperial. The war is likely to be commenced in his own confines, and he is supposed of late to have been
here secretly, and to have conferred with the Seigniory of these
matters. Some think that by his doings the Bishop of Rome will
minister occasion to the Emperor to possess himself of Rome and
other cities of the Church, and bring the Turk's army upon Ostia
and Civita Vecchia, to the destruction of Christendom. The going
about of such matters is greatly misliked, as an affair unmeet for
the Bishop of Rome. Has sundry times desired to know their
Lordships' pleasure as to his accompanying the other Kings' and
Princes' Ambassadors in attendance upon the Duke and Seigniory
at such solemn feasts to which he is formally invited, some five or
six times a year, when the Senators take the same for great honour
and kindness. Also, whether in such places he shall give or take
the upper hand of the French Ambassador. Their Lordships shall
understand that the resorting in such churches and places is not for
the worshipping of idols or images, but rather for the Ambassadors
to confer together familiarly of divers things, and observe what may
stand there to their masters' behoof and advancement. By the
English Ambassador being present, the King's authority, honour,
and name would be better known and advanced. As for other
secret and mutual visitations of Ambassadors, they are reckoned for
a set course or purpose of encherching. A man absenting himself
from these companies is not known, but rather reckoned an abject
and derelict man, and of no manner of estimation, and less able to
serve his master. In his own private house shall endeavour himself
according to his bounden duty. Touching the precedence of the
French Ambassador, he is informed that both here and at the Emperor's Court, the French Ambassador has precedence not only of
the Ambassador from England, but pre-eminence over the Ambassadors of all other Kings and Princes. Commonly the Bishop of
Rome's Legate and the Emperor's Ambassador go together, and
the English Ambassador goes jointly with the French King's Ambassador, giving him the right hand as time serves. Until he
receives instructions from their Lordships, he shall for the reasons
aforesaid, when solemnly required, be amongst them as he shall
think good, and not sequester himself as an unknown person. [Four
pages.] |
April 27.
Amboise. |
327. Sir John Masone to the Council. The Irishmen mentioned
in his last letter were on Friday willed to keep their lodgings, and
to resort no more to the Court until they should be sent for. Supposes they will be despatched away very secretly, or that the object
of their mission being so clearly known, it is not deemed expedient
to entertain them so openly. The departure of the Scottish Queen
is deferred again; some think because of a fancy that the French
King has for one of her train; Mr. Dudley has behaved himself in
this Court very honestly, and has communicated to Masone all that
he could learn by haunting the company of the Vidame, than whom
a more superstitious man is not in all this realm, and who has done
all in his power to have the Irishmen aided. Longs to hear from
England, having had no tidings from thence since the 26th of
February. Begs to be informed if there is any alteration touching
Pickering, in order that he may provide for such things as are
necessary for his office, whereof, by too much trust, he is at this present so destitute as never was there in any Court a more miserable
Ambassador. Yesterday arrived a Danish nobleman, called the
Count D'Igles, who was brought up at this Court, and has come, as
he alleges, to christen a son of Marshal St. André. A post from the
Commissioners on the frontiers of Scotland has just arrived by sea,
and two days ago the Baron de Courton was despatched thither.
[One page and a half.] |
| Eod. die. |
Copy of the preceding in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book. [One
page.] |
April 27.
Augsburg. |
328. John Hales to Cecil. Thanks him for sending the commendations which at his coming he received from the Ambassador.
The news which he has learnt since he came hither are that every
thing is excessively dear, the cause of which is assigned to the
Emperor's long abode, the multitude that were at the Diet, and
those that daily resort here. But the truth is, all the land
hereabouts, and what he has seen by the way, albeit it is tilled to
the uttermost, and where the plough cannot go digged with the
spade and the mattock, is of nature sandy, and not to be compared
with England for natural fertility. The diligent labour of the
people far surmounts the English. Pastures several or common
there be none; all saving meadows be turned into tillage or vineyards, which for the most part be on such steep hills, as would seem
impossible to be climbed or to bring forth any good thing. They
make such stone walls to keep up the earth as are to be wondered at.
Learns that for the keeping of an acre of vines they have after the
rate of 40 shillings per ann, which when the worst year comes
will bear a fodder of wine at the least, that is, a tun. Among the
vines grow apple-trees, pears, peaches, and almonds; and the like in
the corn-fields, besides great number of walnuts wherewith they
make oil. In many places the meadows are also tilled, and in many
they set and sow herbs. Their cattle be kept with straw for the
most part in the house, and of the ground where they stand is made
the great plenty of saltpetre which the English lack, and need not if
they would take pains. The spear-shafts be rent out of the great
fir-trees called Abietes, whereof the English may have plenty out of
the east land, and need not to send or sue for them in Flanders, and
so set a great many on work. Where religion is most favoured here,
there also the Interim hath his place. In most places the Papists
and Protestants have their service in one church, one after the other;
but here and at Strasburg the Protestants have their own particular churches. Here, the Emperor being present, the people be so
fervent and earnest in religion as he never saw; is sure yesterday
there were in a little church of the Protestants, not so big as the
Parliament house, about 6,000 persons, stages being purposely made
round about, as be used in England at disguisings. Because things
be so dear, prays Cecil to remember to move suit for the leather.
Morysine both hath and shall have great need of it, or some other
help, which it is believed neither will be so easily obtained nor may
be so well spared. In good hope of success has caused his brother to
bring a bill thereof ready drawn. |
|
P.S. The Protestants prepare for the Council; and they of Strasburg have sent their pastor Marbachus to Wittenberg, to ascertain
the intentions of those of Saxony. They be fully resolved all together
to make their confession, and to take exceptions contra judicem et
judicium, and so to depart; but it is thought that those that were
most desirous of the Council will be the greatest hinderers of it.
Apologizes for his blotted letter, the consequence of haste. [Two
pages; five lines in cipher, undeciphered. Attached to the following letter from Morysine of April 28.] |
| April 27. |
329. Abstracts of instructions from the Council to Sir John
Masone and Sir William Pickering, and of letters from them to the
Council, contained in the preceding documents of Feb. 25th and
27th; March 7th, 18th, and 23d; and April 18th, 22d, and 27th.
[Twenty pages. Imperfect.] |
April 28.
Amboise. |
330. Henry II., King of France, to King Edward VI. Has
instructed his Ambassador, the Sieur de Chemault, to request that
his Majesty will cause to be delivered up to him a Scotsman, named
Stuard, implicated in a conspiracy against his grand-daughter the
Queen of Scotland. [French. One page.] |
April 28.
Augsburg. |
331. Sir Richard Morysine to Cecil. Though Germany cannot
match England in sweet herbs, it can in nettles and such as have
skill in stinging. He is a proof who wrote to the Council that
Morysine was a messenger (αποστολος) rather than an Ambassador
(πρεσβυς). Will not regard John Hales' complaints. Knows who
says, it is strange if we can endure the cauteries of the physician,
and not advice administered when we do wrong. Begs he will
stand his friend, as he did by his attorney, when J. H. was there.
Knows the thanks that good advice deserves. Gives a quotation in
Greek to this effect, and adds, "My Lady Cecil can easily spy my
theft, and so see what I might a-stolen more. I must say my
Lady Cecil, and not change an opinion so imprest in me." Must
stick to his opinions in that Court like his grandfather. "Knight
it you when you can, I may no more unknight you than I can unlady my wife, and yet her ladyship on working-days is very well
content to be wrapped in English clothes, and like shortly to
mourn for silk if leather make me not able to barat with some
shifting mercer." Thanks him for leather, as he expects to be
baited when Wotton comes. Will be able to cast off the dog let
loose upon him, if it be not the mastiff himself. Is sorry that
Cecil would have him speak French, which he hardly understands;
"Dieu vous garde, Mr. Buttes was wont to add, de bon jour." The
French Ambassador has many advices that the two heads will not
easily be reconciled. Cecil must induce him, for whose safety they
are both most anxious, to yield a little of his state if the other
cannot stoop. Their chief object must be the security of the King
and kingdom. Considers he is writing not only to Cecil, but to the
Duke of Somerset. Cecil's lady must kneel for him, and pay his
compliments to the Duchess. "In earnest, if I have no leather my
men will go barefooted." Has written to Northampton and
Warwick, in whom is all his trust. [Three pages. Holograph, partly
in Greek, partly English in Greek characters.] |
April 29.
Amboise. |
332. Sir John Masone to the Council. A conspiracy to poison the
young Queen of Scots has been detected. He that took the matter
upon him is an archer of the guard, who has escaped into Ireland.
Much search is made for him, and it is reported that he has been
already stayed to be sent into Scotland, and so again into France.
The old Queen is fallen suddenly sick upon the opening of these news
unto her. The design is supposed to have been devised by some miscontented Scots. The same post that brought these tidings also brought
word that the Lady Fleming is brought a-bed of a man child, whereat
the women here do not much rejoice. On Monday a French post
arrived from England, and since then there has been much talking
of dissensions among certain of the English nobility. These he
deplores, and thinks that the Ambassador ought to be informed of
the truth of occurrents at home so as to stop such rumours: as for
himself, these 10 weeks he is more ignorant of any occurrents of
England than is the worst pack of this Court. Is in continual hope
of the return of Pickering. The Princess of Navarre is with child,
to the great rejoicing of the whole house of Vendôme. The King of
Navarre has settled 400 francs per ann. on the bearer who brought
the news from his daughter, and on his heirs for ever. The Duke of
Vendôme is still with his father-in-law, not far from the frontiers;
and it is thought that if the Emperor is not encumbered with the
Turk, there shall be some exploit attempted for the recovery of
Navarre. Has not heard from his doers in England touching the
receipts of his diets, and beseeches their Lordships' aid herein. He
has lived on credit these two months, not without great interest,
and as all his plate and moveables have been sent off, he has no
help for himself on this side. His diets are not much more than 37
shillings a day, which only defray his horses and house rent. [Two
pages.] |
| Eod. die. |
Copy of the preceding in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book. [Two
pages.] |
April 30.
Venice. |
333. Peter Vannes to the Council. Takes advantage of the departure of a courier extraordinary to inform them that the Turk's
preparations are daily more and more certified to be great, and
besides the 109 galleys which he has ready, he is providing 40 or 50
more. The doings of Andrew Doria are very prosperous to the
Emperor's affairs, as will be seen by the inclosure communicated to
him by the Emperor's Ambassador. The Bishop of Rome's demonstrations against Parma are like to turn into a calm, as it is reported
that the Emperor is unwilling to kindle a war in Italy, and the
Bishop of Rome is unable of himself to take any such enterprise in
hand. The Venetians are very busy, and in eight or ten days their
general with the galleys shall set forth. The Prince of Spain,
it is said, defers his journey to Spain until the return of Andrew
Doria. This day Signor Daniel Barbaro has had his first audience
of the Seigniory, and is understood to have reported very honourably of the King's Majesty and their Lordships. [One page and a
half.] Inclosure, |
|
333. I. Merely elaborates the Turkish preparations, the efforts of
Doria against Dragut Rey, and the Pope's attempt to gain
Duke Octavio by the Dukedom of Camerino, as previously
detailed. [Italian. Three pages.] |
April 30.
Greenwich. |
334. The Council to Sir John Masone. Six persons have committed a robbery in Jersey, and all escaped to Coutance, where
they have been apprehended. The ancient custom of extradition
between Normandy and Jersey, having been refused in this instance,
desire that he will apply to the King or the Constable that these
felons may be delivered up for execution to the officials of Jersey;
the more earnestly that they have secret intelligence that these
individuals are plotting for the betrayal of the castle of that island
to the French.—A note, autograph of Masone, states that this was
forthwith attended to by the Constable, who delivered to the bearer
of the message (the son of Sir Hugh Paulet) the French King's
letter to the Bailli of La Foi for speedy redress of that and some
other robberies. [One page and a half. Copy in Sir J. Masone's
Letter-Book.] |
