Venice: March 1547 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 5, 1534-1554. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1873.

Citation:

'Venice: March 1547', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 5, 1534-1554, ed. Rawdon Brown( London, 1873), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol5/pp203-209 [accessed 29 November 2024].

March 1547



March 2. Esposizioni Principi, vol. i. p. 9.	480. Announcement to the Signory of the death of Henry VIII.
	This morning the ambassador of the King of England came into the College Hall and spoke in substance as “follows :—
	“Most Serene Prince and most illustrious Lords, I cannot without extreme sorrow, I may indeed say without tears, perform this office of acquainting your Serenity with, and condoling with you on the death of his most Serene Majesty my Lord Henry VIII., of blessed memory (di bona memoria), as enjoined me by letters received from the most Serene Edward VI., the King, and now in like manner my Lord, and from the most illustrious Earl of Hertford, his Majesty's Governor and Protector of England.
	“This I say, most Serene Prince, because I know that your Serenity will have much lamented this demise by reason of his Majesty's great prudence and rare virtues (rare virtù), and on account of the love which, like all his predecessors, he bore your Serenity.
	“Before his death his Majesty appointed sixteen commissioners (commissarij) and governors of his most serene son, and of the kingdom, which sixteen, having regard for the Earl of Hertford's relationship to his Majesty (he being the uncle of this present most Serene King), and for his most illustrious Lordship's authority and great prudence, have elected him guardian (governator) of the King's person, and Protector of the kingdom, so that there may be a head to apply to for such negotiations as may be requisite, and he with the other sixteen governors and the members of the Council will despatch them.
	“His Majesty with his most illustrious Lordship have now given me notice of what is aforesaid, with orders to communicate the whole to your Serenity, as to his principal friend, and by reason of the goodwill which prevailed between you and my Lord, his most serene father of blessed memory; and should it seem to your Serenity that I have been tardy in performing this office, you must know that it proceeded from my letters not having come sooner, as they were brought by Messer Francesco Bernardo. (fn. 1)
	“The aforesaid most illustrious Earl of Hertford and Protector also charged me to inform your Serenity that the intention of the most Serene King, and of all the other councillors, is to continue in that ancient goodwill and love with the Signory, which was constantly demonstrated by King Henry and all his predecessors. Therefore they pray your Serenity to do the like by his Majesty, loving him and having his interests at heart during this his minority. And as your Serenity, to the infinitive satisfaction of his late Majesty and of the whole kindgom, had purposed sending him an ambassador; the most illustrious Protector hopes that you will not show less favour to the present King, and therefore prays you so to do, as by means of ambassadors friendships between sovereigns are preserved and multiply. This will give his Majesty great satisfaction and contentment, and prove the account in winch your Serenity holds him; and as my commission, owing to the death of the late King my Lord, is cancelled, his present Majesty, wishing therefore as aforesaid to continue in friendship with this most illustrious State, has by his fresh commission charged me to reside with your Highness as before the said death, to which effect he has written a letter of credence to your Serenity.”
	This the ambassador presented, and after its perusal, he continued :—
	“During my past residence here I have followed the commands of the King my Lord, always to keep your Serenity on the most loving terms with his Majesty, and thus do I offer to do for the future, and also to serve your Highness in whatever shall be ordered me.”
	The most Serene Prince answered him with much prudent condolence with his Lordship on the King's death, by reason of the ancient and excellent friendship, not only between his Serenity and his Majesty, but which subsisted between the entire Venetian nation and that very grand kingdom, alluding to the trade carried on there; but as it had so pleased his Divine Majesty they must resign themselves to his will, and thank Him for having left this most Serene King, his son, from whom so much may be hoped (as they do), from his natural inheritance of the paternal virtues. His Serenity and the entire Republic congratulated themselves on his accession, thanking him and the Protector for the announcement made by the ambassador of his Majesty's wish to continue in his good friendship and peace with the Republic, by whom he assured them that the wish and intention were reciprocated, and that the Signory would always be ready to do what might be to the satisfaction of his Majesty, to whom they would send an ambassador according to his wish.
	In conclusion, the Doge said he was glad to hear the King had confirmed the ambassador in his former post, and that he should therefore hold him very dear, as he had hitherto been held both by his Serenity and the whole Republic.
	The ambassador having thanked his Highness for his gracious reply, took leave and departed.
	[Italian.]
March 5. Parti Secretr, “Consiglio X., File no. 7.	481. The Chiefs of the Ten to the Venetian Ambassador at Rome.
	In addition to what they wrote to him on the last clay of February, touching the Pope's request about the affairs of England, they now announce their resolve to send an ambassador to that most Serene King. On his despatch, and as soon as it is opportune, and required by the nature of the times, will not fail to use their good offices.
	Ayes, 26. Noes, 0. Neutral, 1.
	[Italian.]
March 5. Deliberazioni Senate (Secreta), v. lxv. p. 95, tergo.	482. The Doge and Senate to the Venetian Secretary [Giacomo Zambon] in England.
	By his letters of 3rd February, heard of the death of King Henry, and of the accession of his son Edward VI. Perceive also what he tells them about his conversation with the Secretary Paget concerning the intention of the new King not to admit for purposes of negotiation any ambassador or other agent now at the English Court, from any Prince, unless provided with letters of credence addressed to his Majesty. Subsequently received a letter from the King, presented to them yesterday by his ambassador resident, whose statement confirmed the secretary's account, and gave ample assurance of his Majesty's goodwill towards the State, and that he will maintain the same friendly relations with them as subsisted between his father and the Republic.
	Write to the King condoling with him on his father's death, and congratulating him on his accession; and enclose a copy. In addition to the letter, to acquaint the King orally with the Republic's goodwill towards him, which will moreover be announced to his Majesty hereafter by an ambassador appointed for that purpose.
	To recommend to his Majesty the Venetian merchants, their ships, merchandise, and effects.
	Send him the enclosed letter for his Majesty's guardian (governator) and the Protector of England, with a copy. To perform such offices with his Lordship and the other guardians as he shall deem fitting; thanking his Excellency for the loving announcement made to him (Zambon), by Sir John Masone (per Mastro Massen). To continue to reside with the new King. Will keep him advised of what occurs, and send him the news-letters from Constantinople, as hitherto, that he may communicate them to the King and his Council.
	Ayes, 168. Noes, 28. Neutrals, 7.
	[Italian.]
March 5. Deliberazioni Senato (Secveta), v. lxv. p. 96.	483. Francesco Donato, Doge of Venice, to King Edward VI.
	Heard lately of the death of his father, by the King's own letter, as also by one from the Venetian Secretary in England, and orally from Edmund Harvel, (fn. 2) who acts as ambassador, and fully explained the goodwill which his Majesty bears the Republic. Condoles with him on the catastrophe, but congratulates him heartily on hearing that his Majesty has not only inherited his father's realm and grandeur, but also his prudence and many and great virtues, of which the Doge trusts he will so avail himself, that in like manner as his peers, gentry, and people (fn. 3) have put him in possession of his kingdom, and admitted him willingly, so will he also be loved and respected by foreign powers. Has desired his secretary, Giacomo Zambon, to state most fully by word of mouth his earnest wish to maintain and augment his friendship with the Crown of England, as will be declared more fully by an ambassador to be sent shortly. Bequests credence for the secretary.
	Ayes, 168. Noes, 28. Neutrals, 7.
	[Original draft. Latin.]
March 5. Deliberazioni Seaato (Secreta), v. lxv. p. 96.	484. The Same to the Earl of Hertford, Protector of England.
	Was grieved by the death of the late King Henry VIII, but marvellously pleased to hear that the young King's minority and the administration of everything was to be intrusted to Lord Hertford, as the Doge already knew him to be a most prudent statesman. Therefore congratulates the Protector, the King, and the whole kingdom. The King will doubtless show himself such as easily to surpass his years and the general expectation. Hopes that his Majesty, by the Protector's advice, will persevere in that friendship with the Republic, which was so long and constantly maintained by his ancestors, as has been affirmed, in the name of Lord Hertford and other councillors, by Sir John Masone (Magister Masson) to the Doge's secretary in London, the letters from the King and the Protector giving the like assurance; whilst Edmund Harvel, acting as ambassador to the Republic (apud nos oratorem agentis), has given ample assurance of the fact. Returns thanks for this, and requests credence for the secretary.
	And be it forthwith carried, that by a scrutiny of this Council, an honourable ambassador be elected to the King of England. To receive for his expenses 150 golden ducats per month without being bound to give any account to the Signory. To keep 11 horses and as many servants (including his secretary's servant), and two running footmen, etc. [as in commission to Bernardo Navagero, dated 17th December 1546, which see.]
	Ayer, 168. Noes, 28. Neutrals, 7.
	[Italian.]
March 7. Lettere del Colegio (Secreta), File no. 18.	485. The Doge and College to Giacomo Zambon, “Venetian Secretary in England.
	To communicate the underwritten advices from Adrianople, and to continue giving the news as usual.
	[Italian.]
March 7. Parti Secrete, Consiglio X., Kile no. 7.	486. The Chiefs of the Ten to Benedetto Rhamberti, Venetian Secretary at Milan.
	The courier Pelegrin has brought letters from their ambassador with the Emperor, dated the 3rd instant; send a copy. To go to the Governor and inform him that the Emperor has caused his Excellency to be written to, enjoining the observance of their treaty with the Milanese.
	To request the Governor to deliver Lodovico Da l'Armi into their hands.
	In case his Excellency should say that Da l'Armi has not yet been outlawed for this offence, and that their treaty relates to the surrender of outlaws, to avail himself exclusively of what they wrote to him on the 14th ultimo, namely that Da l'Armi is banished for life from all the Signory's towns and places on account of another most atrocious outrage. If his Excellency meditate quitting Milan speedily, to endeavour to obtain from him such orders, that Da l'Armi may be delivered without difficulty to the persons whom the Chiefs will send for him.
	Should his Excellency be content to satisfy them in this matter, to endeavour that this resolve be kept secret, and to give immediate notice of it to the Signory's Governors at Brescia, to whom the Chiefs will write what they are to do in this matter.
	And be it carried to authorise the College to write to Brescia, and elsewhere as may be thought fit, ordering the necessary preparations to be made, that the said Lodovico may be brought in safety.
	Ayes, 23. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian.]
March 8. Lettere Secrete, Capi Consiglio X., File no. 4. To be read by the Governors face to face.	487. The Same to the Governors of Brescia.
	Lodovico da l'Armi is detained in the power of the Lord Governor of Milan. Are endeavouring to get him into their hands. To get together as many as 40 good cavalry of their light horse and men-at-arms, with one of the Signory's commanders—brave and trusty—keeping them in readiness, without any stir, and not letting them know on what service they are to be employed, until advices are received from the Secretary at Milan. Thereupon they are to immediately despatch the commander with the cavalry to receive (accettar) Lodovico, in such place and in such form as shall be written to them by the secretary; warning the commander to whom they shall give this charge, to use all diligence in bringing the aforesaid Lodovico in safety to Venice to the Chiefs of the Council aforesaid; and to have care for his custody by day and night, so that he may not injure himself by weapon, or otherwise. Should they incur any expense, they are to avail themselves of any sort of monies in the “Chamber” of Brescia, giving notice to the Chiefs, who will have them credited at Venice.
	Alvise da Riva, C.X., III.
	Jacomo Duodo, C.C.X.
	L. Ser^mo. P.D. Cons, et Sap. utr. manus.
	[Italian.]
March 8. Lettere Secrete, Capi Consiglio X., File no. 4.	488. The Chiefs of the Ten to the Venetian Secretary at Milan.
	Have written to their Governors of Brescia; enclose copy. On obtaining a favourable determination from the Lord Governor, to write to the said Governors of Brescia, to send the commander with 40 horse to such place and with such instructions as necessary, for taking Da l'Armi in charge.
	Alvise da Riva, CX, III.
	Jacomo Duodo, C.C.X.
	Lectæ Sermo Principi D. Cons, et Sap. utr. manus.
	[Italian.]
March 11. Secretario alle Voci, v. i. p. 28, tergo.	489. Election of an Ambassador to England.3
	Domenico Bollani, son of Ser Francesco. (fn. 4)
	[Italian.]
March 17. Parti Secrete, Consiglio X., File no. 7.	490. The Chiefs of the Ten to the Venetian Ambassador with the Emperor.
	On the 7th instant received his letters of the 3rd, concerniDg Lodovico da l'Armi, and sent a copy to the secretary at Milan, who was told by the Governor that he had not yet received an order from the Emperor to observe the treaty [for delivery of outlaws], but by letters of the 28th ult., his Majesty commanded that Da l'Armi was to be kept in close custody, and that information was to be sent to him [the Emperor] concerning the matter, together with a copy of the treaty. The Governor added that immediately on receiving the order (which Mons. d'Arras told the ambassador had been given to him, Don Ferrante) he was very ready to satisfy the Signory.
	Subsequently received the ambassador's letters of the 4th, and saw what the Emperor said to him about this matter. Also heard from the secretary Rhamberti at Milan, in date of the 12th, 14th, and 15th, that the Senate of Milan answered the Emperor that they did not consider him bound in law to surrender the said Lodovico to the State; but the secretary was informed that were the Signory to ask him of his Imperial Maiesty as a gift. he would comply with their request. Enclose copies of Rhamberti's letters. To speak again with all earnestness to the Emperor, and Mons. d'Arras, urging the delivery of the said Lodovico.
	Should the Emperor or others allude to any particulars about this circumstance, to answer in the some form as Rhamberti did, but coming to the conclusion that the Signory asks him [Da l'Armi] of the Emperor as a favour.
	Ayes, 28. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 2.
	[Italian.]
March 17. Parti Secrete, Consiglio X., File no. 7.	491. The Chiefs of the Ten to Benedetto Rhamberti, Venetian Secretary at Milan.
	Received his letters of the 12th, 14th, and 15th, concerning Lodovico da l'Armi. Have written again to their ambassador with the Emperor. To persevere in making suit to the ministry at Milan for the close custody of Lodovico, until they receive the Emperor's reply.
	Ayes, 28. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 2.
	[Italian.]
March 22. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), file no. 18.	492. The Doge and College to Giacomo Zambon, Venetian Secretary in England.
	Enclose summaries from the Signory's Bailo at Adrianople, for communication as usual.
	[Italian.]