Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 1, January-July 1544. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1903.
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'Henry VIII: July 1544, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 1, January-July 1544, ed. James Gairdner, R H Brodie( London, 1903), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol19/no1/pp510-531 [accessed 16 November 2024].
'Henry VIII: July 1544, 1-5', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 1, January-July 1544. Edited by James Gairdner, R H Brodie( London, 1903), British History Online, accessed November 16, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol19/no1/pp510-531.
"Henry VIII: July 1544, 1-5". Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 19 Part 1, January-July 1544. Ed. James Gairdner, R H Brodie(London, 1903), , British History Online. Web. 16 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol19/no1/pp510-531.
July 1544, 1-5
1 July. | 814. Suffolk and Browne to the Council. |
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R. O. | This morning, coming towards the ship, met many hoys coming "inwards." As within these two or three days it will be seen how many will be needed afterwards, it were well to despatch the rest, so that the King "be not charged with the number longer than needeth." Beg the lord Chancellor to despatch their (the writers') commission with speed. Desire to know if the King will commission them to look in such letters as pass through their hands. From before Grenewich, 1 July. Signed. |
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
1 July. | 815. Suffolk and Browne to the Council. |
R. O. | About noon, arrived here in the King's ship, and landed because the wind had changed and would bring them no further, as the master of the ship can declare, whom they send herewith. Order should be taken in case like chance happen to the King; for, being compelled to take this way, they found only such horses as they "were fain to take out of the carts." This ship is "special good," and, in sailing, outwent all others. Gravesende, 1 July. Signed. |
P. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd.: 1544. | |
1 July. | 816. Russell to Henry VIII. |
R. O. | Begs pardon that he has not the rather written of proceedings here. Removed yesterday from Cowshey and encamped 7 miles thence at Bowrdes, within a mile of my lord of Norfolk. Finds much scarcity. Norfolk's ward have drunk nothing but water since Friday last, and almost no bread could be had till to-day. The lady Regent and Mons. de Rues keep not their promise to provide victuals; and the poor soldiers make great clamour, and we are at our wits' end what to do if we go forward. De Rues advises us to lay siege to the one part of Montrell; to which Russell answers that he never heard of a town so won, with one gate left open. As De Rues says that the French King may at any time man it and make it impregnable it is evident that they "care not much whether we win it or no, so that we may lie there and be as a defence and buckler for their country, and to leave your Majesty's treasure among them for such our necessary expenses there." Has seen some part of the King's own travail and that of others sent into France heretofore, and calls this a "wild war," for they only wander; and now, if they enterprise what (for lack of victuals) they cannot attain, the Frenchmen will set little by any army that passes hereafter. Two things are easy to be had in France, viz., Bulloine and Arde, neither of which, as De Rues affirms, could hold out two months, even if no ordnance were laid against them. Durst himself, with 7,000 or 8,000, enterprise Arde; but Bulloine would require more. With the King and his army in the field the French king could not succour them, and then Montrell could doubtless be environed and won; and there is not a more fertile country in France than between that and Guisnes. With the King's great power lying at Montrell the French king could not succour Bulloyne and Arde, and indeed the country between Bulloyne and Arde is so devastated that no army could pass it; and Montrell has always been the staple for victualling them both, and also Tyrwyn and Heading. Begs pardon for this bold-writing. Bowrdes, in the camp there, 1 July. Signed. |
Pp. 3. Add. Sealed. Endd.; 1544. | |
1 July. | 817. Russell to Sir Anthony Browne. |
R. O. | Describes, much as in his letter to the King (No. 816), his removal from Cowshay and encampment beside Norfolk and Bowrdes, the scarcity of victuals and failure of De Rues and the lady Regent to keep their promise therein, and selfish motive in advising the siege of Montrell. Has seen the King make, with this, four sundry voyages into France, and yet he has not there one foot more than he had 40 years past. "And in case we should after this sort wander, as I may well call it, in a wild war, dispending so much, to the King's no little charge, the same cannot sound so much to his Highness' honor; besides that to be bruited in the world that so noble and prudent a prince, the father of all Christendom in this world, as he is, and so reputed and taken, should return home without winning anything, this should encourage the Frenchmen little to set by any army that shall pass over hereafter." Repeats and enlarges on his reasons (in No. 816) for taking Arde and Bulloine. |
Have come through such straits that 500 might well, in defence of their country, have ventured upon 5,000; "so that if the Frenchmen had been men they might have so staid us that it should have been to our shame." Would be glad to hear from him now and then. Begs to be recommended to friends and fellows of the Privy Chamber. Bowrdes, 1 July. Signed. | |
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
2 July. | 818. Church Plate at Canterbury. |
Close Roll 36 Hen. VIII. p. 2, No. 17. Rymer, xv. 35. |
Warrant declaring that the King has received from Sir Anthony Sentleger, gentleman of the Privy Chamber, certain parcels underwritten of the plate, jewels and ornaments of the late abbey of St. Augustine's nigh Canterbury and other places delivered to him by Sir John Wyllyams, then master of the Jewel House. Westm., 20 April, 35 Hen. VIII. |
i. "First a cross standing upon a foot of silver and gilt with a byrrall to put in the Sacrament." And 48 other items similarly described of plate and vestments, the values of the vestments being given. | |
ii. The inventory of all such ornaments, copes, and vestments as remained in the custody of Sir Ant. Sentleger, lord deputy of Ireland, at the King's house at Canterbury, not meet for his Grace's use, appraised 21 March, 35 Hen. VIII., by John Freman, mayor of Canterbury, Wm. Coppen, alderman, and Walter Trotte, viz.:— | |
"First a vestment, deacon and subdeacon, of red silk with lions of gold, 40s." And 20 other items similarly described and priced. | |
Memorandum that, 2 July, 36 Henry VIII., Sir John Williams acknowledged the above warrant and schedule before the King in Chancery. | |
2 July. | 819. Suffolk and Browne to the Council. |
R. O. | Arrived here this Wednesday at 2 p.m. and found a great number of men and horse shipped and departing with the tide, which then served well, so that they will be at Calays within 3 or 4 hours. My lord Chamberlain and Mr. Comptroller have been wonderfully diligent, so that few men and horses remain to pass, and within a day or two all will be over except those assigned to attend the King. Will tomorrow about 3 or 4 a.m. depart for Calays and set forward things there; and then the King may "come onwards somewhat the rather." Will find things the more ripe as my lord of Winchester is this night gone over. Wrote yesterday their opinion about the despatch of the hoys upon the Teames, and now remind the Council that no more of the hoys here should be reserved than "the small number behind shall require." Mr. Sowthwell reports that there is not sufficient money here for "the prest for this number which is already come"; and, for that and for the despatch of these hoys no little sum will be wanted. Will send to the King's agents in Flanders for such money as remains with them; and beg that Mr. Sowthwell's clerks at London may be despatched with money, and order left with Mr. Treasurer there to "despatch those that are to come which (besides the King's Majesty's band for hi3 own person) we think to be very few." Dover, 2 July, 6 p.m. Signed. |
P.S.—Desire to know whether, when the number now come are passed, which will be within two or three days, my lord Chamberlain and Mr. Comptroller shall come over, where they will have enough to do with musters, &c. A proclamation should be made to hasten stragglers that tarry behind in London. Would know what number of hoys are necessary for the transporting of the lead and to what places they shall resort for it; for, once these hoys are despatched, it may be "hard having of them again." | |
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
2 July. | 820. Griffith Appenryth and John Broke to the Council. |
R. O. | Answered on the 21st June the Council's letters of the 18th and wrote again on the 27th. The effect of those letters was that on 30 June the King owes 59 hoys one month's wages above the month's wages already paid to them, that on 9 July the King shall owe 139 hoys one month's wages, and that on 15 July the King shall owe 100 hoys one month's wages above the month's wages "which they [have rec]eived." The shipmen whose month ended on 30 June call extremely for money, alleging their great charges in repairing their ships and the dearness of all things. Humbly require that money may be sent, and that it may be in English and French crowns and whole groats. Would also know whether to discharge any hoys. |
On 4 Aug. a new mayor is to be chosen for this town and Griffith Appenrith, who is appointed to the charge of the hoys "with me, doubteth to be chosen mayor." As he could not supply both rooms and is so far entered into the charge of overseeing and paying the hoys, I beg your Lordships to write to the Deputy and Council and also to the mayor and "burgesie" that he may not this year be put in election. Calais, 2 July. Signed. | |
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
2 July. | 821. Camp Discipline. |
Add. MS. 10,110, f. 204. B. M. |
Proclamation that "my lord Lieutenant of the King's Majesty's army royal" has commanded "these ij soldiers," taken prisoners by the Frenchmen and now returned for their ransoms, to be hanged for leaving the camp without his licence or that of their captains, contrary to the proclamation made in that behalf. Others following their example have been "wilfully slain by th'enemies yesterday and this day." Hereafter all who leave camp without licence shall suffer death. No one shall cut down the bodies of these without commandment. All proclamations hereafter shall be kept on pain of death. Given, 2 July, 36 Hen. VIII. |
P. 1. Endd.: God save the King. | |
2 July. | 822. Vaughan and Others to the Council. |
R. O. | On the 25th ult. received, by Blewmantell, the bearer, their letters dated Westm., 23 June, with two new bills of Ant. Vivalldes and one of John Giralldye, besides a packet of letters of Ant. Bonvize enclosing his proxy directed to his company here to credit 100,000 cr. Sent thereupon to our broker, Jaspar Dowche, to set forth the matter; but he was gone to Court and did not return until 30 June. Meanwhile sent for one of Bonvize's house and told him that the Council had got of Ant. Bonvize a new credence of 100,000 cr. of 36 stivers, because the other was rejected, and asked whether they would grant it. He answered that they had received new letters and a proxy whereby they might bind Ant. Bonvize, which they were ready to do. That done, sent for "th other compagnys of the Vivalldes" and showed them new bills of credence directed to them from London. They answered that they had already credited for a great sum and would credit for no more. The same day came John Giralldy, who, having already heard that his factors in London had given the Council a bill of credence for 10,000 cr., consented thereto and brought with him one of the house of John Carlo who promised to perform it. The Wellsers, as we wrote before, wait to hear from their chiefs out of Allmayne before they can answer. As the lack of answer to our last letters has been much hindrance, we will briefly repeat what we wrote, viz. that the merchants here would each credit only half what they were desired to credit, and so we concluded with the broker that, the bills being consigned by Ant. Bonvize and Vivalldy to three sundry houses here, each house should credit 38,772 cr., at 10½ per cent. for three marts (which interest amounts to 3,500l. Fl.), or the third part of 100,000 ducats and not of 100,000 cr., "as your honours wrote," of 36 stivers, for our bargain was for 100,000 ducats, which with the said interest is 116,316 cr. of 38 (sic) stivers; and we wrote that Bonvize and Vivalldy must write to these three houses to credit us for this, to be repaid next Cold Mart. Your letters by Blewmantell made us no direct answer; wherefore we have taken a new order with our broker, viz., that Vivalldye shall write to the two houses to which he wrote before, that is, to John Carlo Affetati and Company to credit us for 35,000 cr. of 36 stivers (25,000 cr. for Vivalldi and 10,000 cr. for John Giralldi) and to Gwinygye and Balbanye and Company to credit us for the other 25,000 cr.; and we, through Bonvize's proxy, shall have here 62,778 cr. of 36 stivers. All together, with the interest aforesaid, is 122,778 cr. to be paid next Cold Mart, which is for nine months. |
1544. | When that first bargain is concluded, there remains of Bonvize's credit only 37,222 cr. of 36 stivers towards another 122,778 cr.; the balance whereof, or rather more in case greater interest is required, may be obtained (since the aforesaid merchants make courtesy to credit more) by Vivalldy's bills consigned to Fornado Dacie and to Mychaelly and Arnollfyne, or the heirs of Frances and Diego Mendus, to give bonds for 25,000 cr. each, and the remaining 35,556 cr. may be had by bills of Pantaleo Spynola to two houses which "do for him here." Again, credit may be had of John Callvecante, John Geralldi and certain others in London, whose bills consigned here to Affaitaty, to Gwynygi and Balbanye, to Fornando Dacie, to Mychaelle and Arnollfini, or to Leonard Spinola, these five are good for the whole sum. Describe how their broker threw doubt upon their receiving the money of this second bargain within the present month of July, as the bills of credence were not yet come out of England; but they think he has it. "Peradventure he will look to have his bills made to be bound to pay in the Paische Marte, for he it is that setteth the day of payment between the merchants and us, and not we; for such credit hath he with the greatest of them, and so consequently with all, that what he appointeth that they grant unto." |
Advise the sending of a good stock of lead to remain here, the sight of which would get them credence easier and cheaper than the merchants' bills. For this month of July (having only credence for 37,222 cr. of the 100,000 ducats) the least sum for which they must have credence is 85,556 cr. of 36 stivers; as appears by a draft remembrance of Jasper Doche's, their broker, sent herewith. | |
Continued in Vaughan's hand.—On 30 June arrived Francis the post with another letter from your honors showing that, as you sent the new bills of Bon vice and Vivalde, by Blewmanter (sic), you supposed that we had credence here. Explain, as before, that the "howsows (sic) of the Vivaldes" would only grant 50,000 cr. and the rest of "the first credence of the last month of June" was John Gyralde's 10,000 cr. and the portion taken out of Bonvyce's credence. Perceive also that they have gotten credence of Bartilmew Compeigne for 40,000 cr. and of Bartilmew Fortune for 10,000 cr. and trust to have of John Geraldi, 40,000 cr. more; but nothing can be done here until the bills come. We do our utmost, "but we have to do with foxes and wolves, which are shrewd beasts whose natures are well known to your Honors." If Sorer will cause the company of the Pymelles to give us credence we shall have some more help but, I fear, dear money. | |
I, Stephen Vaughan, by appointment of Thos. Chamberleyn have paid Lightmaker 1,500 cr. of gold; and to Mr. Fane, for Landenberghe's horsemen (because Mr. Wyndebank was absent with his money), 4,000 cr.; and to Mr. Hall 3,000l. Fl. Landenberghe's footmen are dismissed; but the Queen yesternight wrote to Mr. Fane that she had letters from Landenberghe that he was not paid "their month's wages, after the Emperor's entertainment," by 7,000 cr., for which Fane and Wyndebank repair to the Queen today. We have obtained the Queen's licence to convey out of these parts, to the King, a good sum of money. Andwerp, 2 July. | |
In the latter end of Jasper Dowche's remembrance he desires to have a certain sum of money lent to the Queen, "which her Grace, though he name her not, would pay again in the same kind that it shall be lent," whereby appears what lack there is. "Wherunto we could if your Honours dyd not make answer good yno[ugh], as we gesse yow wold departe wt none so shuld th'answer be framyd accordingly." Signed: S. Vaughan: J. Dymock: Thomas Lock. | |
Pp. 8. Flyleaf with address lost. | |
2 July. | 823. Chamberlain to the Council. |
R. O. | Arrived here today; but Lightmaker, by his assignment, afore the receipt of the Council's last letters, had received 1,500 cr. of Stephen Vaughan and returned to Utrecht to his men, to be at Tornay, 7 July, to give their musters. Reflecting that to go thither, either with or without the King's treasure, for their dismission, would be nothing pleasant to them after they have come so far, has sent a post to Utrecht, 18 leagues hence, for Lightmaker himself to come hither and learn the King's pleasure before his men march further. Andwarpe, 28 June, 1544. |
P.S.—Had "this other" ready, waiting for a messenger, when Francis the post brought him the Council's letters of 28 June, showing that the King was now pleased that, even if Mons. de Bueren's last horsemen and Lightmaker's were already dismissed, means should be procured to retain them and hasten them forward to the army. Found Lightmaker, who came hither on receipt of the writer's letter, very tractable, and perceives his demoure after his day due to the stoppage of his people by the lords whose countries they passed through; who mistrust men of war because of the levies of the duke of Borneswike and others whose purpose is not known, and for fear that the Anabaptistas newly risen about Utrecht "should likewise entertain any men of war for upholding their naughty sect." Lightmaker has 80 and odd good horsemen at Utrecht, who had been already past this town but for "the stay I made him upon your Lordships' former advice." He is now to send forward as many of them as he can, to be at St. Omer about the 14th inst. For such as he said were stopped 14 leagues beyond Utrecht, bade him beware of charging the King "with any great 'interesse' for their return," and yet to satisfy them, that they should make no exclamation. He promised that the King should be well satisfied; and so departed to Utrecht, promising to send continual letters to Mr. Vaughan to keep the writer informed of his approach. His whole number is 300 and odd, but he fears he will not get passage for 250 that are 14 leagues beyond Utrecht. Delivered him no more money. This night the Regent wrote to Mr. Vane requiring that if Lightmaker's band at Utrecht was of his charge, they should either be discharged or brought forwards. Departs tomorrow to Bruxelles to desire her letter for their despatch if stopped. As for De Bueren's last number, which, at St. Omer, it was almost concluded to dismiss, writes by Francis to Mr. Palmer and Mr. Vaughan, sending them the copy of the Council's last letter to be followed by them with De Bueren. On returning from Bruxelles will repair, with his treasure, to Calleis to abide Lightmaker's coming. The Council take Landenberghe's band of horsemen and footmen to be clear dismissed by the commissaries, who declare that they have dismissed the footmen and entertained the horsemen. Explains that he was, therefore, doubtful what to do, but, seeing that Lightmaker's men at Utrecht had come so far (even from Denmark) and were so few, thought he could not err much in accepting them, and Lightmaker lamented that he would be undone if he should not come to serve. If, upon the copy of the Council's letter, Palmer and Vaughan do not accept De Bueren's last number, cannot tell what De Bueren will think when he perceives Lightmaker's to be entertained (which, to make him conformable, he was told, were dismissed also) and not his own which are already at Tornay. Begs them to instruct Palmer and Vaughan who are at the Camp. Andwarpe, 2 July, 1544. | |
Hol., pp. 6. Add. Endd. | |
3 July. | 824. War Expenses. |
Commission to Sir Robert Southwell and Sir Edw. North. See Grants in July, No. 27. | |
3 July. | 825. O'Connor. |
General pardon. See Grants in July, No. 28. | |
3 July. | 826. Ireland. |
Commission to lease Crown lands and sell wardships. See Grants in July, No. 29. | |
Confirmation of Sir Ant. St. Leger as Deputy. Ib., No. 32. | |
Charter to Galway. Ib., No. 33. | |
3 July. | 827. Chapuys to the Queen of Hungary. |
R O. [Spanish Calendar, vii. 139.] |
After having very expressly made to the King and Council all the representations contained in her letters of the 26th ult., and also declared the danger to the King's agents and servants, and to all his subjects and merchants in Germany, unless he dismissed Landenberg's men honorably and with reasonable pay if he would not use them, can obtain no other resolution than he wrote in his last, viz., that the King desired the horsemen and had good hope of getting them, his commissioners having since delivered them 4,000 ducats, and as for the footmen the King would not use them because of their unreasonableness, and also could not well do so because the Emperor advertised him not to pay more than he (the Emperor) did; and the King could not be persuaded to deliver the footmen money for their despatch and return, he affirming that he had delivered Landenberg 18,000 ducats, without counting the "lauwfghelt," and they could take it from him (Landenberg). |
The King departs on Monday (fn. n1) next. Please God there may happen no occasion of delay! | |
Fr. Modern transcript of the original at Vienna, pp. 2. Headed: 1544, Juillet 3. | |
3 July. | 828. Chapuys to the Queen of Hungary. (fn. n2) |
R. O. [Spanish Calendar vii. 140.] |
John Mary Toullant, a Piedmontese, having here robbed Baptiste Borron of gold rings worth 1,500 cr., was, in his flight to France, captured by Mons. de Villemont on the frontiers of Luxemburg, as a Frenchman. Toullant had already given his booty into the charge of a priest who, upon his detention, consigned it to John Chevallier, nephew of John Tirry, for greater surety. These latter, upon the proofs given by Borron, were ready to restore it, provided that Villemont desisted from molesting the priest and them; but, although the Queen has already written to him, he refuses to desist. The Duke and Duchess of Suffolk, whose servant and argentier Borron is, have requested Chapuys to write to the Queen to command Villemont to desist and Tirry to restore the goods to Borron. |
Fr. Modern transcript of the original at Vienna, pp. 1. Headed: 1544, Juillet 3. | |
3 July. | 829. Chapuys to Granvelle. |
R. O. [Spanish Calendar vii. 142.] |
Chapuys' letters to the Queen show the King's absolute resolution touching Landenberg's men. The Duke of Alburquerque grows daily in credit and grace with all the Court, as well lords as ladies, and the King daily shows him favour, as also does the Queen; of which he makes little, as, but for the Emperor's service, he would not abide here an hour for divers considerations. Now, it seems to Chapuys, that the Duke would much like it to be known, in the Court (fn. n3) and elsewhere, that the Emperor holds himself greatly served by his abode here, he doubting that the Emperor takes it so and thinking that his Majesty only wrote to him of it to please the King. Would beg Granvelle to write two words about it to the Duke, and also to say something to Don Barthelome, his brother, and others. London, 3 July, 1544. |
Fr. Modern transcript of the original at Vienna, p. 1. | |
3 July. | 830. Sir Thomas Palmer and Edward Vaughan to the Council. |
R. O. | Declared to Mons. de Bureyn the King's pleasure for the retaining of his latter band of horsemen. As he was ready to despatch them at the King's first request, so now he was ready to retain them and sent their captain to hasten them forwards to St. Omer's. Delivered the captain 2,000 fl. and De Bureyn 3,000 fl. for the payment of such as are now in the camp. Delivered this "apon the bonn cont tyll Chamberlaynes retorne, who at hys comyng shall make all rekenynges parfytt that ar past betwene hym and us syns our fyrst begynnyng." Have now 175l. of the 800l. left with them by Chamberleyne; and desire treasure to pay the horsemen when they pass their musters. Saynt Omer's, 3 July. Signed. |
P.S.—We trust the same band, which is 500 and upward, will be at the Camp by Tuesday or Wednesday next. | |
P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
3 July. | 831. Francis Halle to the Council. |
R. O. | According to his last short letter from Calais, 25th ult., came to Andwarppe on Friday last, received 2,000l. "great Flaunders money" of Stephen Vawghan, rode to Maakelyn to bed and next morning delivered the Council's letter to the Queen. Describes at length how the Queen forthwith appointed commissaries, who began by representing in writing what complaints were made that the conductors sent with the wagons and lymoners for the fore and rear wards were dismissed, and replaced by Englishmen who beat and outraged the carters, and how the King only paid 5 stivers for a horse whereas the Emperor paid 7 stivers; and they took his answer in writing. Named the author of these untrue reports, but they "would not be aknown of him"; and yet, while sitting with them despatching messengers to send the wagons and lymoners to Calais by the 6th inst., viz. 1,000 wagons and 1,200 lymoners (for the 297 wagons and 121 lymoners for supplement of the fore and rear wards were despatched to George Gower the day before his arrival), a messenger came from Cassell with a letter declaring that the man before named by the writer, Peter van Hall, had carried away 100 cr. of the money delivered to him for the horses of Cassell. Peter van Hall was then called in and has since paid the 100 cr. to the messenger of Cassell. Sunday, all day, was little enough to write letters and get them signed by the Queen. On Saturday, having made an estimate with the commissaries, wrote to Mr. Vawghan at Andwarppe, who sent next day 1,000l. odd more. |
That Saturday afternoon, was sent for by Mr. Fane, who had spoken with the Queen and was sitting with Syperius and the audiencer in her dining chamber; "whyche Syperius, the presydente Scoore and curttys (courteous) Monsr. de Pratte, that semyth to effectyon Inglyschemen soo weell, bene chyeffe and the oonly dooars abought the Quyene." Syperius, who seems "a right wise, cold, temperate and discreet man," and is learned and languaged in Flemish, High Dutch, French, Spanish and Italian, proceeded, by writing, to fish out of Mr. Fane the truth of Landenberg's demeanor and the leaving of those footmen and retaining the horsemen—as the commissaries did with the writer, to pick out the truth of the untrue reports of the carters. Mr. Fane refused to sign this inquisition, and, being called in to the Queen and her Council, sent for the writer, as speaking French better. The Queen concluded that Syperius and another gentleman (fn. n4), with two commissaries to be appointed by Mr. Fane, should go; the one to despatch the footmen to the Emperor (who retained them because otherwise they would serve the French king) and the other to conduct the horsemen to Eeyrre; because, without great danger, Mr. Faane and Wynddybankke might not come near them. She would have had Mr. Fane send the footmen money for 14 days more than the full month, for their withdrawal, but this he would not grant. She alleged that she thought the King (although Landenberg had acted naughtily) would despatch the bands one way or another, and not suffer them to remain destroying the Emperor's country as they have long done; and she spoke "wondrous graciously and gently." | |
The said Monday, after dinner, received their letters of the 26th and 27th ult. by Wm. Leghton, to whom he, accordingly, paid 60l. 8s. 6d. st. Trusts they have received his of the 24th, 25th and 30th ult. Excuses his slackness in writing by his diligence otherwise, and hopes that, as the wagons and lymoners for the fore and rear wards were despatched at their day. so those for the battle may be at Calais by 6 July; for which the Queen has deserved thanks, as also has the secretary Burgoyse who, with his fellow, expects to be sent to Calais, but secretly desires "not to goo farre from his nyew bueldynge (?) that he maaks att Bruxselles." Sends copy of their inquisition and his signed answer, that my lord of Suffolk may order the conductors accordingly. Has not time to turn it into English. Also sends copy of a bill of the money delivered to messengers to prest the wagons and lymoners to be at Calais on the 6th. | |
Has with much ado obtained passport for the King's 200 mares and sent it to the frontier this morning; and tarries here to write this, which was begun yesterday at Bruxelles, as he will have less leisure at Calais, "being then called upon and having my head broken on every side." Describes at great length how he obtained the passport, which he could not solicit on Monday as the Queen went a hunting. On the Tuesday morning, spoke with the President, who (in reply to the suggestion that he had caused the mares to be stopped) answered cholericly that 200 mares was a great matter; but, on Hall's telling him that it was a "right small matter for a King's affairs, especially such as were now in hand," said, "reasonably and coldly enough," that he would learn the Queen's pleasure. Spoke with the Queen coming from mass, who thereupon debated with her Council (in which he understands that Mons. de Pratte was "very heavy lord that the mares should pass") from 8 till 12 o'clock, and, in going to dinner, told Hall, who still gave attendance, that the President would make the answer; which was that it could not be, seeing that so many wagons, horses and mares were already despatched, but the King might have so many horses. Pointed out the unkindness of such a refusal and the President offered to speak again with the Queen; and so, after dinner, brought him to her, "being in her long gallery toward supper, and her young nephew Fadynando's (sic) second son called (as some men say) archduke of Awstryse, who is a well-favoured young gentleman [and] goodly prince of his age of xvne years or thereabout, and came to Bruxse[lles] the same after dinner." Told her what a small number 200 mares was for a King's business, specially at this time, and how "ungraately" the King must take their refusal; and, the President and her great councillor, Mons. de Pratte, standing by, said that Wm. Leghton, brother to the late ambassador and now present in Bruxselles, told him (when here first) that the King should have passport for such mares as he would demand, so that the Queen knew the certain number (the President denied this, but Leghton still affirms it). She answered, very gently, that she would write to the King; as if they thought him a "coloured and deceitful messenger," although he offered to show the President the point in the Council's letter, who declined as not understanding it. Said that Suffolk also had written for licence for 14 mares (she answering "that she was too fine to grant licence for my lord of Suffolk and to deny the King's Majesty"); and that the reports of the carters' evil handling were untrue (which the President confirmed and told the offence of Peter van Halle); and so departed to his lodging, where he received a letter from the Emperor's ambassador in England to the Queen concerning the passing of the said mares. Took the letter straight to the Queen, as she was risen from supper, asking her to look in it; and "followed her down into her harburs and gardynges," without any gentleman giving him any countenance, who are so full of "gentle humanity" that when forced to speak they speak,—"yet but disdainfully and hollowly." When she had read the letter, and all seemed ashamed or afraid of his company, he asked Mons. de St. Py to remind her of him. She turned about and said she would answer next morning, which was yesterday; when he again reminded her, coming from mass, and was promised answer straight, "but all the Council were assembled first." At last it was granted that the King should have the 200 mares; and to know the answer Hall followed the President into the Chamber of Fynaunsys. In it was Mons. de Pratte, "who began to swell as though he would have burst (I think the sight of an Englishman is so pleasant unto him) and right spitefully and irefully said to me 'You may tarry without door well enough.'" Describes how he answered that he was attending upon the President to know the answer touching the 200 mares; wherereupon De Pratte flew into a great passion and spoke wildly, and would have accused Hall of saying that if not despatched he would go without answer. Was "never so taken up of a stranger," and thinks that De Pratte's gentle nature may not abide the sight of an Englishman, especially a servant of the King. Went from him into the Chamber de Fynaunsys where the President said that the secretary would despatch the passport, asking if the 200 mares "were for the King's Majesty's self" and saying, gently, that De Pratte had misunderstood him and was too hot without cause. "He said also that a cokkard, one of the least of least, did speak to him for the passing of the foresaid mares; which matter of such importance, he said, was not to be passed at the only speaking of so light a merchant; and, by the resolute denying of me till the Emperor's ambassador's letter came, it seems I was counted little better but a forged or 'obornyd' messenger, for all the acquaintance that I should have here in these parts, which acquaintance will be acquainted but when they list." Reflections upon the ungracious nature of most people here. | |
No news but that the Emperor was still at Messe in Lorrayne and his army before Lygny castle, which castle "did begin to speak"; and no certainty of anything but the overthrow of the French Italians beyond the mountains. Will be at Calais on the 6th. Andwarde, 3 July, 1544. | |
P.S.—Tidings have come that the town and castle of Lygny are rendered, and Mons. de Lygny and Mons. de Genever prisoners. | |
Pp. 14. Add. Endd. | |
R. O. | 2. Articles setting forth that where Francis Halle, man of arms of Calais, says that he is come to beg the Queen to deliver him 1,000 wagons, besides the 800 already ordered, and 1,200 draught horses besides the 1,228 already ordered, to be at Calais on 6th July next, it is impossible to provide so many, considering the wasted state of the frontier countries and the heavy imposts levied for this war. But she will make as many as possible, on the understanding that there be no complaints hereafter of ill-payment or ill-treatment; for it has been reported that the conductors of those already sent were dismissed, and replaced by Englishmen, who did not know the language of the carters and paid only 5 patars or sous for a horse (whereas the Emperor paid 7 patars last year) and also illtreated the men and horses. She will have them conducted by men of this country, each in charge of 25 or 30 wagons and receiving for his pains 25 patars. |
To which Hall has answered that he has express charge to hire the number specified, and will give in prest to those of the Council of Arthois and Lille 2 carolus per horse, to those of Haynau 3 car., to those of Namur 4 car. and to those of Maestricht, Lembourg and thereabouts 5 car. With regard to the aforesaid reports he says that the truth is (here follow many details of names and proceedings of the conductors who brought the former supply of wagons and horses, showing that there is no cause of complaint). As to conductors of this country, Hall himself thinks that gentlemen of velvet robe would prove too dear; but his charge extends no further than to take conductors as far as Calais. For the wagons and horses already in the King's service plenty of men were found there who knew Walloon, Flemish and English, some for 3 stoetters a day, and gentlemen for 1 carolus; and he knows not if the King would give more to men of this country. He says that the carters are well treated, and that the Queen may trust the King and his ministers therein. | |
French, pp. 7. Headed: Du xxviije de Juing, xvcxliiij. | |
R. O. | 3. Statement of the names of those despatched to levy horses and wagons 30 June, 1544, in presence of Francis Halle, commissary of the King of England; showing the place of each man's commission, the number of horses to be taken from each district of it, and the money delivered to him for them and for his own expenses. Total 1,005 wagons, 1,260 horses; 16,642fl. 10s., and to the clerks 3 ducats or 6l. 1s. Made 1 July, 1544. |
French, pp. 4. Endd. in Hall's hand. | |
3 July. | 832. The Queen of Hungary to Chapuys. |
R. O. [Spanish Calendar, vii. 143.] |
By her letters of the 24th and 26th ult. he would learn the great trouble which Landenberger's men of war have given the poor subjects of Liege and of her government. They have since remained upon the flat country oppressing the poor peasants, so that there has been likelihood of a rising to drive them away. Those of Liege blame her, they having given the men passage over the Meuze upon her assurance that they were friends. All has arisen from the misunderstanding between the English Commissioners (who were not sufficiently instructed for dealing with High Almains) and the footmen, whose custom is to ask more than reason and increase their demands when they find inexperienced men. Nothing in this war has troubled her so much, for to let the said footmen be driven away would discourage all others, they having been levied for the King's service; and the commissioners will not go to them for fear of being illtreated, and meanwhile her subjects have been pillaged. Has reason to resent such a company being brought into her government and dismissed unsatisfied, and cannot believe it to be the King's intention; for, as she wrote, if the commissioners would have paid for one month's service and 15 days for their return the footmen would have been satisfied; but they have never settled (descompté) with the said footmen, only giving money on account, to the profit of the captains and great dissatisfaction of the men. Knows not what to think of Chapuys's not having sent any message upon the Emperor's last letters of the 24th ult., seeing that Altesteyn, whom the Emperor sent to the said footmen, awaits Chapuys's answer, and that she has so much commended the affair as important. |
Yesterday evening received his letters of the 27th ult. persuading her to release 200 mares arrested at Dunekerke which are bought for the King's service, as the Council say. Wrote on the 24th that she had refused a secretary of the King's ambassador, lately deceased, passport for two mares, which servant next day delivered a bill for 200 mares. It seemed mockery after being refused two to demand two hundred, and she caused him to be told that such a request, if it was for the King, was too important to be made by a servant without any other certificate (certitude). The commissioner (fn. n5) sent for the wagons has since continued this suit, without having instruction that it was for the King, and, seeing her unwilling, has used high words, saying that perhaps this would hinder something more important. Finally, he presented Chapuys's letters, by which she learnt for the first time that the mares are already at Dunkerke. Has just cause not to let so many pass (so as not to strip the country, which partly depends upon the rearing of horses and would easily be deprived of them if they could be carried away, which from all time has been strictly forbidden), the more so as she is advertised that the ships which she allowed to go for the passage of the King's army carried away, without licence, more than 700 mares, several of which are not fit to serve at present. Thinks that the King would wish that honesty to be observed which he would desire her to enforce upon her subjects in his realm, whom she will not suffer to carry away forbidden things secretly and without his licence. Has not failed to satisfy the number of horses which the King asked for his camp, although her subjects would rather have granted a very great aid than sent the said wagons; and those of Flanders alone caused her to be told that if she would have supported them about the wagons they had granted her 100,000 cr. for the multitude of the said horses, which exceed 8,000. When the King has requested horses for him and his she has made no difficulty; nevertheless, upon Chapuys writing that it was for the King's service, she has, for his (the King's) sake, released the said 200 mares for this once, hoping that he will order his subjects to abstain from transporting any more, to which in truth she could not consent. Although the Council have sent word that it is for the King's service, she much desires to know if the King ordered the buying of them for use in this enterprise, seeing that there are some of them which he will not be able to use. Chapuys shall look to this, as very important to these countries. | |
Chapuys shall thank the King for sending Octavian Bos; upon whom she will do justice, as his service and the Emperor's require. | |
Since writing the above, has received his of the 29th and forwarded those to the Emperor; and she knows not what to say, except that she is troubled by the outcry of the people at the damage done them by those whom they thought friends. Is now advertised that from about Utrecht some horsemen are coming to the King's service, who go hither and thither eating up the poor people. Had no notice of it until the people came to complain, and thinks that the King's commissioners have not in this fulfilled his intention. | |
After the above was written, came news that Ligny has surrendered to the mercy of the viceroy of Sicily, and the counts of Ligny and Rochy are prisoners. | |
Fr. Modern transcript of the original minute at Vienna, pp. 4. Original headed: A l'ambassadeur Chapuys en Engleterre, du iije de Juillet, 1544. | |
3 July. | 833. The Sieur d'Ecke to Mary of Hungary. |
R. O. | The escuier Altensteyn says that the footmen have all passed the Meuze and wish to join the horsemen; and they keep good rule. He declared his charge from the Emperor to the chief officers, who advised that it should nowise be spoken of to the footmen until they had been thanked on behalf of the king of England, and were quit of their oath to him and paid; and they were not content with the letter of the King's commissary but would be thanked in their own manner. After they are paid, they will readily enter the Emporor's service provided they have his letters of retainer. The captains have obtained safeconduct of the bp. and town of Liege, and will be here tomorrow to treat of their pay with the English sub-commissioners. Captain Souastre arrived here last night and is today gone towards the horsemen, who, it seems, do not wish to separate from the footmen and are not satisfied with these 4.000 cr. but require full payment of three months, "disans que leur bestellinge est de celle teneur." |
The money here will not nearly satisfy the captains, who, besides a month's wages, demand "leur depart ou abzug," but we will hear what they will say. | |
French. Extract, pp. 2. Headed: Extrait des l'res du Sr Decke, escriptes a Liege le iijieme de Juillet, 1544. | |
3 July. | 834. Lucas Fringhur to Fane and Wyndebank. |
R. O. | Laus Deo! adi 3 Julij, 1544:—Wrote on the 2nd. Landenburg's secretary tells me that the footmen and horsemen are together and will not separate, and say "the wylbe lycensyd by those thatt toke monstres off them, and to have, after ther artikell bowck, alff a monett wages as the ar sworne unto by the Kynges promesse, and wyll have ther mony as they by monsstryd by ther rolles, or els the saye the wyll fynde wayes to be payd be the furst Inglisman the can mytte wydhall." Nicholas arrived yesterday about 2 p.m. and so did the captain of the Queen's archers; but Nicholas might as well have tarried there, for he will not go today with the Queen's gentleman to the horsemen, so that I must leave all things with your servant Hottson and go myself with the captain. Tomorrow here will be Landenburg and all his captains of footmen with Schaperius for their money, for they have this day gotten the Bishop's safeconduct to come to this town. If possible, "send me the book whereas Landenburg is bound to the King's Majesty to serve him for 400 men 500 pays, for he denies it, and the Bishop and Scaperius would fain see it; as for this letter we have here, is to no purpose but only to know where the mustering should have been." |
Hol., p. 1. Add.: Au sygneurs comisaires de la Mate du Roy Dengleterre, sygneur Raff Fane et sygneur Rycchard Wynebanck logie a lotrice dor presdes Cordeliers, en Anvers. | |
4 July. | 835. Suffolk, Gardiner, and Browne to Henry VIII. |
R. O. | Yesterday, incontinently upon their arrival, they began to put things in order, and despatched (copy herewith) to the Lady Regent for acceleration of sending the carriages. The Council of this town declared the scarcity of hay and pasture like to ensue from the great number of horses and cattle transported, and that, by the unseasonableness of the year and the drowning of the low grounds, there was less hay than was looked for, and also the great spoil "made by the vowarde and rerewarde in their passage." The writers, having made secret enquiry and found this true, have distributed at Guisnes and elsewhere in the East Pale m . . . . footmen, for defence, and will depart hence tomorrow. Have today sent the lord Marshal, the Master of the Camp, Sir Rafe Elderker, Sir John Lee, the Knight Marshal, and others to view the camping ground, and are preparing sufficient ordnance and munitions. Besides the preservation of the Pale, the victuals will be better uttered to the King's advantage there than if the soldiers lay in this town. It is just reported that they will be lodged near certain French villages which are yet untouched, and will provide plenty of corn and grass, water and mead, lying 10 miles from this town and two miles from the seaside, betwixt Marguison and the sea. When forage fails they will remove elsewhere, foreseeing that they keep on this side of the water of Marguison and waste no ground that might serve for the King's "intended purpose which we have in memory." The waste done by the "vowarde and rerewarde" compels them to leave Calais and they have nowhere else to go to. |
Yesternight Palmer, bailiff of Guisnes, declared to me, the duke of Suffolk, his communication with Mons. Deurax, which seemed so strange, after what I had heard to the contrary, that I willed him to write it and take heed of what he affirmed of Mons. Deurax's mouth. We send his writing (fn. n6) herewith, and have sent the copy to my lord of Norfolk and my lord Privy Seal, to show how Mons. Deurax "speaketh apart," whatsoever language he has used to them. Calais, 4 July, late in the evening. Signed. | |
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
R. O. | 2. "Instructions given by the duke of Suffolk, the King's Majesty's lieutenant, and other of his Highness's Council at Calais to Fraunces Hal, (fn. n7) Steven Vaughan, Chamberlain and Wynnebanke, whom they have by letters required in the King's Majesty's name to repair to the lady Regent of Flandres and, as agents to the said Duke and on his behalf, to say as followeth," viz., after delivering the Duke's letters:—That the King, perceiving the hindrance to the "vowarde and rerewarde" by lack of carriage and victuals out of Flanders, desires the Duke to solicit and accelerate preparations; so that the King may, upon knowledge of the readiness here, haste or slack his passage over the seas. The Duke desires her to take in good part his earnestness in this and his declaration that, by slackness of furniture from thence time has passed without damage to the common enemy, and, through the slackness of her ministers or others in providing victuals, the voward and rereward have "idly consumed almost one month. Victuals were promised in plenty unto the "waiter of Summe" (water of Somme); and yet on the border of Flanders they suffer great scarcity, and want almost 300 carriages, although the King made great provision of them from his own realm, only counting upon such number as the lady Regent herself promised. Let her note the King's proceedings with the Emperor, how he sent over at the day, and 12 days before, the men of the voward and rereward, and how they are yet staid for want of carriages, and discouraged from further entry into France for want of victuals; and if the like should chance at the King's arrival the enemies should be much encouraged. And they shall desire her to cause 1,000 carriages and as many lymoners as were lately written for to be at Calais within six days; and to give a determinate answer therein, for upon her answer the King will "defer or haste his coming over." If she answer with good words, and promise to redubbe what has been amiss, they shall commend her good intention, blame the negligence of her officers and ministers and, frankly, tell her that in all wars hitherto the like delay has been used, so that some doubt whether it is done to retain the King's army near as a strength to this frontier. Time has been lost thereby that cannot be recovered. As to victuals, they shall desire to repair with her commissaries to the places from whence victuals should come, so as to certify hither what may be trusted unto, specially in bread and drink; and as of themselves they may suggest that staples of victuals should be made at Sainte Omers, Ayre and a town in Brednarde. |
Draft, pp. 4. Endd.: Copie of my 1. of Suff. instructions. | |
4 July. | 836. Norfolk and Others to the Council. |
R. O. St. P.. ix. 727. |
Yesternight, received the Council's letters by Richemount, the herald. Might have been at Monstrell three or four days past, but that their guides have taken them up and down the hills, through hedges, woods and marshes, and all to lodge them on French ground and save their own friends. A good part of the army has only drunk water since yesterday sevennight. Norfolk has twice written to the Lady Regent "very quickly," showing that unless the promise of victuals is better kept the King cannot accomplish his promise to the Emperor. Messrs. de Reux, Bewers and Countye de Wynes all said we should remove this day to a place within two miles of Monstrell, but Surrey, lord Warden and Poynenges, being sent to view it, found there neither grass nor forage and the passage to it impossible, so that we cannot go so far. Norfolk and others will ride to view the place for the camp tomorrow night, within a league of Monstreull, as "their reports" are not to be trusted,—and yet we must handle them with gentle words or they may displease us by stopping victuals. |
Hear no word of money either from Stephen Vaughan or out of England. When next pay begins on 8 July they can only pay their men for eight days. Know not yet for how long the strangers are paid nor at what rate, but have sent to the King's agents in Flanders to bring their books. Beg the Council to speak to the King for money, without which nothing will be done here. Norfolk has twice written to the Lady Regent, and also spoken to the lords of those parts, to order that our groat may go for three stivers, as it was wont, but can get no redress. Neither St. Omer's. nor any place in these Low Countries, will take a groat above 2½ stivers, which is but 3¼d. The King should write to the Lady Regent therein, for the loss is too great. | |
Tomorrow we trust to lodge within 2 miles of Monstreull, with which we might have been in hand ere this but that there is too much "cosonaige" in those parts. As to laying siege, as mentioned in your Lordships' letters, either all of those parts are much abused or else that is not the way to get it; for here they say that quarter is the best fortified and that the town must be won near the castle. We have too few pieces to make two "batters" upon a place fortified as this is. | |
P.S.—Norfolk has viewed the place for the Camp tomorrow night. From the Camp, 4 July. Signed: T. Norffolk: J. Russell: T. Cheyne: H. Surrey: Walter Devereux: T. Wentworth: Wyllyam Howard: J. Seynt John: Thomas Ponynges: Gylys Strangways: John Haryngton. | |
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
ii. (fn. n8) A paper pasted into the above and marked in Norfolk's hand "newes sent to me iiij days past," viz:— | |
"Rapport qui me a este faict d'un veneant de Monstroeul." | |
That they are busy there on all sides, and that, on the side of the "bacq dattin," 300 feet of the walls fell but is being remade with earth and will be finished in three days. The Sieur du Biez is within, intending to await the siege, with 3,000 footmen, Boulognians, Italians and Picards, and 100 men of arms of the Constable and 25 of his own will be put in if you do not besiege Boulogne. The Italians have been in mutiny these three days and have slain three or four of the men of the Sr. de Lignon. The French king has commanded the towns and castle of Rue, Crottoy and St. Wallery to be thrown down. They are working hardest at Beauvois in Beauvoisis. | |
French, p. 1. | |
4 July. | 837. Norfolk to Suffolk and Sir Ant. Browne. |
R. O. | Desires to know what the King intends to do, and will keep it secret to the lord Privy Seal, Mr. Treasurer and himself. Yesterday the three earls, Bewres, Rieux and Wymes, were here and asked Norfolk if the King would go over the Somme. Replied that he thought so, unless they failed to furnish victuals; and asked which way they thought his Highness should take. They said by Daverne and so towards Monstrell, and then, at his pleasure, either to Crotay or by Bray. "I dyd w[ell] perceyve by their wordes they wold his Highnes shuld ........... moch per ......... they have brought us, wich is only to save their frendes contrees"; and my advice is nowise to come by their way, but by Turneham and Seint Omer. "As for us I trust upon Sunday to hear the guns of Monstrell shoot, and for my part I beshrew their hearts that have kept us so long therefrom. My lord Great Master, I heartily require you to help me with a cast of your office for my money, that is to say to send me one tun, or less as ye think, of the King's wine at Calais for here is none to be gotten." From our camp, 4 July. |
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
4 July. | 838. M. de Souastre to Mary of Hungary. |
R. O. | Madame, this day I have been at the village of Herben in Lembourg where I found Frederic Spet with most of the horsemen; and presented your letter to him, saying that you understood that he was again with the the King of England's commissaries on the 26th ult., offering to bring 1,000 German horsemen to Ayre or elsewhere to serve him for 4.000 cr., and had received it, and that you sent me to learn whether he intended to march. He answered that he had so concluded with the commissaries and received the 4,000 cr., but, at his return from Antwerp (retour dud. anvers (?)), the horsemen had changed their minds; and now they would not march unless paid both for the past month and the present. The clerk of the King's commissaries was with me, and was told that on the above condition they would march without fail, and that they had nothing to do with Landenberges. Liege, 4 July, 1544. |
French. Copy, pp. 2. Headed: Copie. | |
4 July | 839. Lucas Fringher and Wm. Hudsun to Fane and Wyndebank. |
R. O. | This morning I went with the Captain of the Guard to Frederick Spede and the rest of the horsemen; and asked if they would march, after their promise made by Spede to you. They said they would gladly do so, and were sorry that they tarried so long from the King's enemies, but they desired full payment of the month past and to have money for this month, at least half month. With regard to his promise, Spede said that on coming back to his company, because the footmen were come over the water, they would not receive this 4,000 cr. upon any such promise. I asked their account and they showed how they had received of Landenburg upon 500 horse 6,296 fl. and another time 1,000 cr.; so they rested to have about 3,436 fl., "tho thys one captayne of 500 men rekenyd by hys hothe ther 24 crutzar a daye for every one off hys men and ther wagyns and all that belonghyd therto"; and they promised me a copy of their musters and whole account for the 1,000. I asked if, this money paid, they would part from the footmen against Landenburg's will. They answered yea; and that they were sworn to the King and had nothing to do with Landenburg, who had always been among footmen and knew not what belonged to horsemen, or he would not have left them so long upon the poor "howsmen" doing no service. They will tarry for their "bestellyngh," if they had money, for they pay for all they take. Showed them that the money received by Landenburg might serve for their first month, but they said they could get none of him. Landenburg has been sent for, but comes not; and Schaperius doubts that he will absent himself to avoid reckoning; "for horsemen and footmen complain of their payments," so that we cannot tell where all the money is become. Schaperius is glad to hear that the horsemen will depart from the footmen. Signed: Lucas Fringher: Wm. Hudsun. Dated at the head: Liege, 4 July 1544. |
P.S. in Hudsun's hand.—"Owr logyng ys calyd la Rouge Porte a Liege." | |
In Fringher's hand, pp. 3. Add. like No. 834. Endd.: L'res from Mr. Fane's servantz to him from Liege. | |
5 July. | 840. Henry VIII. to the Deputy and Council of Ireland. |
Irish Pat. Roll, 36 Hen. VIII. m. 1d. |
Enrolment of the articles comprised in letters dated 5 July 36 Hen. VIII. viz.:—Robt. Sentleger, brother of the lord Deputy, is to be keeper of Dungarvan. John Parker, constable of Dublin Castle, is to have an annuity of 20l. All those in "petty wages" are to be discharged. The dean of Christchurch is to be sworn of the Council. The parish church of Loughesede is to be united to the bishopric of Meath; and, at the Queen's suit, Edw. Abecke to have 20 marks annuity in recompense. Con O'Negall, chaplain to O'Donell, is to be bishop of Elphin, and David Sutton to have the commandry of Tully, co. Kildare, late of St. John's of Jerusalem. The lord Deputy is to have 200l. a year over his old accustomed fee. Westm., 5 July, 36 (fn. n9) Henry VIII. |
See Morrin's Calendar, p. 112. | |
5. July. | 841. Henry VIII. to Mary of Guise. |
Add. MS. 32,655, f. 85. B. M. Hamilton Papers, ii., No. 276. |
Has received letters of 21 June, subscribed by her and written in the name of his "dearest pronept" with the advice of such as she affirms to be of the Council (contents recapitulated). Has alway3 eschewed occasions of war with that country, out of affection to her late husband and to his niece, as sufficiently declared by his accepting peace, which, by him that they took for Governor and other evil disposed counsellors, was broken, so that, being constrained to commence war by Arran and those with him, the fault should be laid on them and not on him. As the authority of the late Governor is, as she writes, suspended, and no one there has power to give a sufficient commission to ambassadors, albeit Henry were never so well inclined to peace, he could not consent to be bound where he could retain no sufficient counterbond. And yet, to show that he would gladly give ear to peace if sure to have it continue, he will grant a safe-conduct with an abstinence for four or five months (as it will be long ere the power can be established by Parliament for the ambassadors) upon the following conditions viz.:— |
1. That all his prisoners named in the enclosed schedule, within 20 days after the arrival of these letters, present themselves to his wardens of the Marches (which they are bound to do by all laws). 2. Considering that pacts and promises heretofore have been slenderly observed and that there is yet no one authorized to conclude such weighty matters, he requires as hostages one of the next kinsmen of each of the earls of Arrayn, Argile and Huntley, the masters of Morton and Hume, the sheriff of Ayre, Dunlaveryk and one of the best of the Carres, to lie as pledges that the abstinence shall be observed, that his friends in Scotland shall not be annoyed meanwhile, and that anything concluded by the ambassadors shall be confirmed by Parliament with the assent of all parties. | |
If these things are forthwith done, he will be pleased to grant the safe conduct and to treat of honorable conditions of peace; but if she refuses this offer it will be apparent that such inconveniences as shall ensue are due to her. Intending within few days to pass with his army into France he requires answer with diligence. Prays God to give her grace to consider her daughter and the country wherein she is born, rather than seek the commodity of the country she herself comes from to their ruin. | |
Draft, pp. 3. Endd.: Mynute to the Douagiere of Scotland, vo Julii, 1544. | |
Ib. f. 83. | 2. Earlier draft of the above, corrected by Paget. |
Pp. 3. | |
5 July. | 842. The Privy Council to Shrewsbury. |
Shrews b. MS.,A., p. 125. Heralds' College. Stevenson's "Selections," 6. (Maitl. Club.) |
The King, having lately received (as his Lordship knows) a letter from the Dowager of Scotland, answers as in the copy herewith. Pray him to forward it. Enclose "a double of the names of all the prisoners which be called in at this present," not doubting but that "if any of them come in," he will take order for them. Will, as he lately desired, learn the King's pleasure for his proceedings in his Highness' absence. Westm., 5 July, 1544. Signed by Cranmer, Wriothesley, Hertford, Westminster and Petre. |
Pp. 2. Add. | |
5 July. | 843. Shrewsbury and Others to the Council. |
Add. MS. 32,655, f. 82. B. M. Hamilton Papers, ii., No. 275. |
Enclose sundry letters from the wardens of the East and West Marches, although they contain nothing of great importance, to show the King what exploits the wardens have done in Scotland. Still detain the Scottish herald and would gladly know what answer to make him. Hear sundry tales of the King's royal voyage into France and of Norfolk's proceedings, and desire their lordships to remember them, that lie far off, with news. Darneton, 5 July. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler. |
In Sadler's hand, p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
5 July. | 844. Gardiner to Henry VIII. |
R. O. | My lord of Suffolk, at his departure this day, willed me to open letters from Mr. Hal, and, if the matter required haste, send them straight forth and advertise him of the contents. Accordingly, this being the "time of passage" and the letters showing that the carriages are prested by Francis Hal against the 6th inst., I send the letters to your Majesty. "I retain here the passeporte for your Majesties meres to put in execution accordingly." The letters are a little perished with water, but legible. Calais, 5 July. |
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544. | |
5 July. | 845. Suffolk, Gardiner, and Browne to Norfolk and Russell. |
Harl. MS. 6,989, f. 125 B. M. |
Since our arrival here, the bailiff of Guisnes made report to me, the duke of Suffolk, of his late communication with Mons. de Reux, so discrepant from what De Reux said to you that I would not believe him and charged him to write it (copy enclosed). As we must signify it to the King we advertise you, to the intent you may compare the communications and note their variance. This day Suffolk, with as many of the battle as are arrived, departs to lodge on French ground between Marguison and the sea. Communing together of the advantage of a uniform valuation of the King's coins throughout the camp, we desire to know what your Lordships have done therein and your advice; and at what valuation strangers have taken the King's coins "and whereunto ye think they will be brought, by such experience as ye have had of them." Calays, 5 July. Signed. |
P. 1. Add. Endd.: Rec. Bremewre, 8o Julii 1544o. | |
5 July. | 846. Henry Palmer's Report. |
R. O. | On Tuesday last, 1 July, went hence to Gravelyn, and thence to Remyngham, where he found Mons. de Vandeville and one of the commissioners of the wars, and told them he would speak with Mons. Deuras. They sent a page into the castle, who brought word that Mons. Deuras was at his rest and would within half an hour speak with Palmer. Meanwhile the gentlemen showed him a brick tower which is in building and will make the castle impregnable without cannon. When Mons. Deuras came into the base court, Palmer delivered letters from my lord of Arundell. He read the letters and asked whether the two men desired were not two guides; and when Palmer said Yea, asked what way the army would take. Replied that he knew not, "but that some would say to Parys." "How then (said he) should I provide good guides and know not what way the army shall go?" For Parys they must have guides thitherwards, and so in Normandy or any other part of France they must have sure guides. Palmer answered that "my lords." intended "to have store of such as knoweth all parts of France." This conversation was as they walked up and down alone outside the castle. After a pause Mons. Deuras said that, if the army went into France, leaving the frontier fortresses behind, they could neither get victuals nor return easily; and, therefore, they should besiege Mountroyll; and, that taken, Heading, Tourowen and Boloyne must yield. Even without battery it might be besieged and victuals kept from it and the others, keeping good garrisons meanwhile at Guisnes, St. Omer's, Ayre and Tornaham; and with men in the castles of Lyekes and Focquelsolles they would soon have Arde. "This day (said he) I have sent to the castle of Focquelsolles 20 horsemen and a sufficient number of footmen to keep the same, and I would that of your part the like were done to the castle of Lyekes." Palmer agreed with his opinion and desired him to declare it to the King at his coming. He said he would; and gave order to Mons. de Vandeville, captain of Gravelyn, to send two guides to Calys next day by noon. Palmer then took leave and came with the captain to Gravelyn. |
By the way, the captain expressed the same opinion touching Mountroyll. Told him it seemed no light matter to besiege so strong a town with such a notable captain as Mons. de Bies in it. The Captain then said, upon promise of secrecy, that if earnestly assailed De Bies would do to us as Mons. Canaplis did to them, who said it should be kept to the last man, and shot very proudly at them, but afterwards was glad to render it up. He, too, spoke of the danger of entering France and leaving such fortresses behind. In Gravelyn castle he showed Palmer a "plat" of France showing the way which the Imperials might take towards Parys, and also that which our army is like to take, which seemed much the more dangerous. Like sayings to the above have been held to the writer by Mons. Deuras, both at Gaunt and St. Omer's. Written at Calis, 5 July, "by Henry Palmebe." | |
Hol., pp. 3. Endd.: "The conference of Henry Palmer with Monsr. Deurax." | |
5 July. | 847. Suffolk and Browne to Henry VIII. |
R. O. | Winchester reports that he has letters from Mr. Halle declaring that the wagons, lymoners and mares out of Flanders will be at Calais tomorrow, as by Halle's letters to the Privy Council will appear. Have with their whole number departed from Calais this Saturday because of the scarcity of horsemeat (of which they wrote yesterday) and to leave the town clear against Henry's coming, which they think should now be "the rather the better," and they trust he will here find nothing lacking. Are tonight encamped at Cawkewell and will tomorrow night lodge in the enemy's ground between Marguison and the sea, 10 miles from Calais, as they wrote yesterday. Camp at Cawkewell, 5 July. Signed. |
P. 1. Add. Endd. | |
5 July. | 848. Suffolk and Browne to Paget. |
R. O. | As nearly all now appointed to serve are come over, except a few that take shipping at Harwich and those that must attend the King, these hoys might be despatched. Had the writers had money here they would have discharged 150 ere this, since they can do no service and yet cost 40l. a day; "wherefore, the rather the money shall come from thence the more shall his Majesty save." From the camp at Cawkewell, 5 July. Signed. |
P. 1. Add.: "To our very good friend Mr. Secretary Pagett, and in his absence to Mr. Secretary Petre." Endd.: 1544. | |
5 July. | 849. Norfolk, Russell and Cheney to Suffolk and Others. |
R. O. | Forbear to advertise them of the strange and horrible weather of "this day and this night past," as they may well perceive it. The lord Privy Seal, marching to encamp this day within two miles of Monstrell, was constrained to encamp near the duke of Norfolk, where they lack both water and horsemeat. Without help of the guides provided by the lords of those parts, found yesterday a good way thither, but this excessive rain has so moisted the ground that, even if the weather change, it will take "a good time" to reach the place where they meant to lie tomorrow. Never men were so evil handled. Few shall drink other than water this night and many have drunk no beer these ten days, "which is strange for English men to do with so little grudging." The selling of the King's beer at the beginning at 50s. the tun gave such ensample to the Flemings that they are not ashamed to ask——(blank) a gallon for their "coyte." Have, among them, but——(blank) of English beer "which we have kept for ourselves." |
Give as their opinion that the King should not go over the river of Some before he has won Monstrell, Boleyne and Arde, thinking it impossible to victual his armies to pass that river. To enlarge his pale this summer with these three places would "make a great conquest and profitable;" and, if they are won in good time, he might then go over to Normandy, or else put Abvile in jeopardy. He must either do that or pass the Somme without tract of time; and, by his league with the Viceroy he may choose whether to pass the Somme or not, considering that we cannot for money get the 20th part of the drink we need and "that little we have sold at so unreasonable price that no soldier (sic) can live of their wages unless they live with water." | |
Desire to know what the King is minded to do or they will think themselves not taken as Privy Councillors. "And yet every hour they have our curses that conveyed us these ways for saving of their friends' countries and losing of our time." | |
Mons. de Bewers has sent word that he intended to camp with them today but the weather has forced him to tarry a mile and a half off, whence it will be impossible for him to depart tomorrow. The masters of the ordnance of both wards think it impossible to convey the great ordnance until the ways mend. Beg that, if the money which Stephen Vaughan should send them be at Calais, it may de sent hither with diligence. Would themselves conduct it from St. Omer's. Desire, in any case, to have money, as they have not enough to pay the Almains and their own men for more than ten or twelve days. "We desire you also to send us a dozen or twenty tun of good English beer, for us old fellows to drink, who can ill away with Flemysche coyte." Desire answer to this by bearer, with speed. From the camp at Wymmyngh[en] this vth foul night of July." Signed. | |
Pp. 4. Flyleafwith address lost. Endd.: My l. of Norff. and my l. Pryvey Seale to the Duke of Suff., etc. | |
5 July. | 850. Charles V. to Chapuys. |
R. O. [Spanish Calendar, vii. 144.] |
Has received his letters of the 29th ult.; and, since the King of England cannot be persuaded to use Landenberg's men, is constrained to take them because of the damage his Low Countries and Liege have received by them and (the footmen having joined with the horsemen) the fear that they might pass into France. It is a great additional charge; and Chapuys must let the King know that by his means the Emperor is put to expense. As to the Councils saying that they cared not if the said men did go into France; cannot understand the English, who sometimes make the forces of the French so little as to be disregarded and sometimes so great as to be feared like the whole power of the world. As to the King's coming in his army, and that meanwhile it may go against Monturel; Chapuys shall (as the Emperor lately wrote) move the English to march as far forward as possible without stopping on the frontiers as they do. As to his suspicion that the King should not be too well furnished with money, recommends careful enquiry therein and about the time the King intends to maintain his army. |
Leaves tomorrow for Thou[l], and so to his army, which is now before St. Desir. Metz, 5 July 1544. | |
Fr., pp. 2. Modern transcript from a copy at Vienna, subscribed with a note by the Queen of Hungary ordering President [Schore] to send this letter at once into England and, if he thinks fit, to advertise Sceperus of the article mentioning Landenberg's men. | |
5 July. | 851. Wotton to Henry VIII. |
R. O. St. P., ix. 729. |
They of Ligny have not kept promise, for, on the 29th ult., after breach was made, the count of Roucy came out to treat, and would depart with bag and baggage, or at least with their lives saved, to which latter the Viceroy was induced by Mons le Grant to agree; but, while this was in question, the Spaniards, loth to lose the sack, entered by the breach and slew certain of the Italians. To save the rest, the Viceroy then entered after them. There were taken the Count of Brienne (who is also count of Ligny) and his brother the count of Roucy, and Eschene otherwise called Mons. de Tynteville (who is said to have taken Marane from the king of Romans) and other gentlemen. In the town were 2,000 footmen, of whom 600 were Italians and were loth to yield. On the 3rd inst. the army was to depart to Sainctedigier on the Marne, where the garrison, to strengthen the town, conveyed the water of Marne into the town ditches, where it has undermined a great piece of the wall, so that now they dare not abide siege. The Nuncio, yesterday, told the ambassador of Ferrara that a spy out of France says that the French king has sent the Dolfyn into Picardy and seems in fear of Henry's army. The duke of Lorayne departed on Monday, 30 June, without making any overture for peace. The Venetian ambassador has shown Wotton the copy of a letter from the governors of Sene to Prince Dauria for help against Barbarossa, who has taken the towns and castles of Talamone and Port Hercule. Wotton said that, doubtless, the Bishop of Rome, who lately moved question against the Seneses for these towns, has thus set Barbarossa a-work. Whereat the ambassador and a secretary that was with him laughed merrily and showed a letter from Genua affirming what Wotton had said; and the ambassador said that the cardinal of Ferrara (who went from Venice to Rome) had requested Barbarossa to tarry longer, and that the prior of Capua, Peter Strozze's brother, who is with Barbarossa, had written to the Bishop that Barbarossa offered him (the prior) the said towns, which, as the Bishop claimed them, he would not take without his leave. It is said that Carignano is abandoned, or at least cannot be held longer, as Guasto will not again hazard a battle. The duke of Camerine is looked for here in two or three days. The Emperor will depart hence on the 6th inst for Pontamouson, and thence by Toulle or St. Mihel towards Sainctdigier. The army has taken Malatour, Chambley and other frontier castles, and will leave garrisons in them and at Ligny. Metz, 5 July 1544. Signed. |
Pp. 3. Add. Endd. | |
5 July. | 852. Wotton to Paget. |
R. O. | Three days past, received the enclosed letter directed to Paget, which seems not very fresh and should have been delivered to Paget at Spyres. The Emperor departs tomorrow, although it be Sunday. Hitherto Wotton has been content to follow him a day or two later, "but from henceforth it shall be no wisdom so to do, ne forte, etc." The count of Brienne, his brother, the count of Roussy, and Chesne are brought hither and shall be sent to Vuilvorde in the Low Countries. Is often asked or news of our army, and would himself enquire of these men but that "a Spaniard that dined with me of late showed me that, not long ago, Mons. de Granvele told certain other that dined with him, for a merry tale, that my lord of London would send to him to know news out of England the which (he said) all other should have learnt of him." Encloses a letter to be delivered to the duke of Alburquerque's chamberlain. Metz, 5 July 1544. |
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd. |