Henry VIII: July 1544, 11-15

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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Citation:

'Henry VIII: July 1544, 11-15', 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/pp552-564 [accessed 16 November 2024].

'Henry VIII: July 1544, 11-15', 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/pp552-564.

"Henry VIII: July 1544, 11-15". 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/pp552-564.

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July 1544, 11-15

[11 July.] 889. Commission of Regency.
R. O. Commission to Queen Katharine and —— (blank), at the least, of the Privy Councellors named in the commission of regency (which the King, taking his "voyage at this present over the seas to invade the realm of Fraunce," has made to her,) to address warrants to the King's treasurers, receivers, &c., for the payment of money.
Draft in Paget's hand, pp. 2. Endd.: Copy of the commission for payment of money. See Grants in July, No. 88.
890. The Regency.
R. O. "Instructions given by the King's Majesty to his trusty and well beloved A., B., C., D. whom his Majesty hath appointed to do and execute in his absence these things following."
Calling as many of the justices of the peace and others named in the commission herewith as are within the shire, they shall divide themselves as most convenient for the speedy execution of the said commission, and thereupon shall make certificate how many able men be in every hundred, how many of them are archers or billmen, or furnished with bows, arrows, harness and weapons, and how many horses there are able to serve; taking order for all to be ready at one hour's warning both for defence, upon the burning of beacons, and to set forth as it shall please the King or the Queen, "regent of this realm in his Grace's absence," to appoint. Order is to be taken that such as are bound by the laws and statutes to furnish themselves with harness and weapons prepare them; and regard had to the observance of the watches in towns and villages. The said A., B., C., D., calling to them such justices of the peace as are thought convenient shall, at least once a month, assemble in the principal towns and enquire of all misdemeanours, especially unlawful assemblies, riots, vagabonds and breaking of the peace. They shall also order all clothiers and artificers to keep their servants "in labour, good order and obedience." Once a month they shall certify to the Queen and the Council attendant upon her the state of the county and their proceedings in the premises, and all noteworthy occurrents.
Draft, pp. 2. Docketed at the head in another hand, "For mustars in the inland sheres."
R. O. 2. Similar instructions (without heading), evidently intended for shires on the coast, containing, after the order to keep watches in towns and villages, the following additional passage, viz.:—
Order is to be taken that justices of the peace and others inhabiting near the sea coasts cause old trenches, bulwarks of earth and other defences to be repaired or new made, and instruct dwellers near the sea to notice ships of enemies hovering near the coast or preparing to land. If these ships exceed not 7 or 8, the countrymen shall resist the landing; but if the number is much greater, so that it is thought that the country cannot repulse them, bridges are to be broken and trenches cast to stay the enemies from entering far into the country until aid come—cattle being driven inland and things which might succour the enemies carried away. As enemies may "make a face of landing when they mind it not," order is to be given not to be over hasty in the firing of beacons.
Draft, pp. 3. Endd.: Instructions for taking of musters and for having respect to good ordre in all parties of everie countie.
11 July. 891. Mortgaging Lands to Londoners.
R. O. Commission to Thos. abp. of Canterbury, lord Chancellor Wriothesley, Edw. Earl of Hertford, Thos. bp. of Westminster and Sir Wm. Petre, to. sign bills for the assurance of lands appointed under certain conditions to be granted to the mayor, aldermen and citizens of London. Westm., 11 July, 36 Hen. VIII. Pp. 2. See Grants in July, No. 87.
ii. Grant to Ric. Turke and others of the manors of Barnaby super Donne, Bramwith, Sandebecke and Hutton Slade, Yorks., etc. 22 Aug. 36 Hen. VIII. Pp. 2. See. Grants in August, (in next Part).
iii. "Differences between the manner of assuring of the lands mortgaged and the commission by virtue whereof they were to have been assured." Being arguments that the patentees should be asked to take their money back and return the lands to "her Highnes" (Queen Elizabeth) or else pay somewhat nearer the value of them. Pp. 2.
iv. "Lands assured to divers persons for money borrowed by the King upon condition for the repayment thereof within one year," viz:—
Thos. Blanke, etc.: Collinges (Herts), Caldecott (Essex), Shellingford (Oxon). Ralph Warren, etc.: site of the hospital of Newport, etc. (Essex and Midd.). Jo. Allen, etc.: Baldock, etc. (Herts and Midd.). Ric. Turke, etc.: Bolton super Derne, etc. (Yorks.). Morgan Wolf, etc.: Barnebye super Donne, etc. (Yorks.). Wm. Laxton, etc.: Shepeheth, etc. (Kent). Jo. Gresham, &c.: Codicote, etc. (Herts.). Ph. Gunter, etc.; Barkby, etc. (Leic.). Paul Withpole, etc.: fee farm of Hayley, etc. (Wilts, Worc., Leic., Herts.). Michael Dormer, etc.; Brokesdon, etc. (Herts.). Augustine Hind, etc.: Gildon Sutton, etc. (Chesh. etc.). Wm. Forman. Dullesworth, etc. (Surrey, &c.). Wm. Butler, &c.: Bauclif grange, &c. (Ebor., Linc.). Ri. Dobbes, etc.: Walkeringham (Notts.). Jo. Clerke, etc.: Aspesden (Herts, &c.). Ro. Regnolde, etc.: Claton (Ebor., Leic.).
"None of these (except Ri. Turke), found to be enrolled in the Chancery." (fn. n1)
In an Elizabethan hand, pp. 7.
R. O. 2. "Commoners."
Paul Whithipawle, merchant tailor, 200l. William Denham, ironmonger, 200l. Thos. Huntlowe, haberdasher, 200l. ———(blank) Turke, fishmonger, 200l. Wm. Butteler, grocer, 300l. Wm. Locke, mercer, 300l. Austin Heynde, clothworker, 200l. Barnard Jennynges, skinner, 100l. Humph. Packyngton, mercer, 200l. Robt. Cherssey, mercer, 300l. Wm. Myrry, grocer, 200l. Chr. Allen, mercer, 200l. John Malt, merchant tailor, 200l. Robert Buckeland, merchant tailor, 100l. Stephen Kyrton, merchant tailor, 200l. Robt. Wyllford, merchant tailor, 100l. John Garawaye, mercer, 100l. Wm. Browne, mercer, 200l. ———(blank) Maye, merchant tailor, 200l. Ambrose Wyllyes, grocer, 200l. Wm. Robyns, mercer, 200l. John Clarke, draper, 100l. Robt. Melles, merchant tailor, 100l. Nic. Wyllfford, merchant tailor, 100l. Thos. Looge, grocer, 200l. ———(blank) Alltam, clothworker, 200l. Robt. Trappes, goldsmith, 200l. Nic. Spakeman, haberdasher, 200l. Thos. Offeleye, merchant tailor, 100l. John Machyn, clothworker, 200l. Ric. Botell, merchant tailor, 100l. Wm. Hewett, clothworker, 100l. ———(blank) Ypgrave, broderer, 200l. Thos. Bower, grocer, 200l. John Skutte, merchant tailor, 200l. Thos. Blancke, the younger, 200l. Ric. Holt, merchant tailor, 100l. Morgan Wollffe, 200l.
"Aldermen":—
The lord mayor 1,000l. Sir John Allen 500l. Sir Ric. Gresham 500l. Sir Wm. Farman 300l. Sir Mich. Dormer 500l. Sir Martin Bowes 500l. Sir John Gresham 500l. Ralph Allen 500l. John Hampcottes 300l. John Wyllfford 200l. Andrew Jude 500l. Ric. Jervys 500l. George Barnes 200l. Ric. Reede 200l. Thos. Whyghte 500l. ———Dobbys 200l. Wm. Laxton 300l. Thos. Lewen 200l.
Pp. 3
R. O. 3. Copy of the above names in § 2 (taking the aldermen first), without the other particulars.
Pp. 3.
11 July. 892. The French War.
Exemption from attending the King to the war. See Grants in July, No. 86.
11 July. 893. Denization of Aliens.
Roll. See Grants in July, No. 94.
11 July. 894. Henry VIII. to the Bishop of St. David's.
R. O. Being entered into league with the Emperor, and having covenanted to invade this year the realm of France, minding to pass the seas in person with a puissant army; forasmuch as he will have occasion to use great sums of money, either by tarrying longer upon some incident than he intended, or by winning places and leaving money for their keeping, has thought it expedient to foresee that he does not want sufficient furniture. As the time is too short to use other means, he is bold of such of his loving subjects as he knows will press themselves to satisfy his desire; and reputing the Bp. to be one among the rest of that sort who will and can gratify him in this, requires him to lend the sum of 100l. to be delivered here at London to Sir John Williams, treasurer of the Augmentations, within 26 days next ensuing. Thus doing he will follow the steps of divers of his degree who have already frankly declared their love upon like request. Promises assuredly to cause the same to be repaid within eighteen months after this date. Westm., 11 July, 36 Hen. VIII. Signed at the head with the stamp.
Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: L'res to bisshops for money.
11 July. 895. Suffolk and Others to the Council.
R. O. We send your lordships "such [letters] as we have receyved from Chamberlain t[ouching] the Ladye Regentes answer in wryting to his [requests]. By which l'res, albeit we perceyve that Landerbe[rges] company wold nowe gladly serve, as they saye, [yet,] because the said Landerberge now reparith, [as] my lady sayth, to the K[ings majestie, and doth] in our jugement demaund unreasonably to [be] payde for oon moneth passed and oon moneth to [come] before hand, considering that Landerbergh ha[th] himself receyved the hol payment for his num[ber] for oon moneth, which if he hath not distrib[uted] is his lak oonly, and, wt the Kinges Mates soo gret [charge], not to be redubbed in or opinions after this so[rt], for theis respectes we have forborn to wryte t[o the] Kinges Mates commissioners to retayne the said La[ndenberg's] company." Camp at Whitesande, 11 July. Signed by Suffolk, Gardiner, St. John, Gage and Browne.
In Gardiner's hand, p. 1. Slightly mutilated. Add. Endd.
11 July. 896. Vaughan to the Council.
R. O. Signified yesterday, by Nycolas the post, that Thos. Chamberleyn was, by command of Suffolk and Winchester, gone to Bruxelles, to the Lady Regent, for lymoners and carriages. After "their" departure came another letter from Suffolk and Winchester, showing that Chamberleyn need not provide more lymoners or carriages than Mr. Hall lately provided. Forthwith sent a copy after Chamberlain, to the intent he might return and take Lightmaker's musters, and expects him back within 3 hours. If he come, no other need be appointed to take Lightmaker's musters, who wrote yesterday that he would be here today with 337 horsemen to serve the King. Andwerp, 11 July.
P.S.—While writing this, came Mr. Fane to him from Suffolk and Browne, willing him to make shift to send Landenberghes horsemen forward; who still cry gelt, gelt, but it is doubtful whether they will march even if they get it. Fane would write, but, "by falling in a ditch under a wagon" is somewhat evil at ease. Thinks that "if these horsemen might have some money they would gladly march forward." If Chamberleyn return with the money Vaughan will have about 4,000l. Fl.
P.S. (Signed R. Fane).—Landenbergh's horsemen are 1,200, who will not go except all together. Their solde by the month amounts to 40,000 phillips gilderns which is 8,333l. 6s. 8d. Fl.; "howbeit Landenberghe, we are ascertained, is taken into the service of th'Emperor with all his footmen and cannot be had."
Hol. pp. 2. Add. Endd.. 1544.
11 July. 897. The Queen of Hungary to Chapuys.
R. O.
[Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 151.]
By the Emperor's letters herewith he will learn his Majesty's resentment of the damage done by Landenberger's men, to his subjects and those of Liege; who have sent deputies to her for compensation, because, upon her assurance that they would live honestly and pay reasonably, they were received. By several previous letters Chapuys has learnt the diligence which she has made, and makes, to persuade them to remain in the King's service, and the difficulties; and especially that the footmen wanted pay for one month and fifteen days' return, as passed at muster, and the English commissioners would only pay for one month at the rate which the Emperor gives. Now she has letters from Scepperus giving hope of satisfying them, as Chapuys will see by the copy herewith. The horsemen want pay for the month they have served and the current month, or they will not march either way, alleging a promise (fn. n2) of the commissioners, as he will see by the copy herewith. Has cause to be aggrieved that the commissioners leave the horsemen upon the Emperor's country until satisfied, without ever having spoken to her about it or having sent any message to the said horsemen since the 13th ult., when they made the said promise; and although they may have treated since with one of the captains of the horsemen named Frederic Spedt, the said Frederic, in delivering acquittance of the 4,000 cr., stipulated that the commissioners should fulfil their promise, which they have not yet done. The Emperor, being advertised that, by means of the said difficulties, his subjects continued to suffer, sent to assist in drawing them to the King's service or making them disperse; and, in default, to avoid worse, although he had no need to burden himself with them, ordered that they should be retained in his service. Does not wish to blame either party; but, if Landenbergher did ill not to fulfil his first promise, the commissioners have not done well to pass the muster above that promise and afterwards refuse to pay according to the muster; also it was not well done not to keep their promise to the horsemen. Chapuys shall in gracious and moderate terms advertise the King of this, and especially, that, in case they can by no means be got to remain in his service, they may, to give them no occasion to go to the French service, be taken to the service of the Emperor. Of the issue of it she is not yet certified, but will advertise Chapuys with speed (par le premier).
The Duke of Suffolk has written her letters upon which the bearers represented the want of victuals, horses and wagons at the King's camp, requiring a thousand more wagons and to know what provision of victuals she had made. As they wished to impute the want to those here, she required them to deliver their demand in writing (letters and writing herewith, although it is more moderate than their words, which were very sharp, and for her justification she has answered also in writing (copy herewith) (fn. n3). It grieves her, after being so diligent to provide the King's camp with every necessary, to have the fault imputed to her, which (if it exists) will be found due to those who in the past ought to have provided for such necessities. Thinks that she has greater occasion to complain of the King's ministers, who after so solemn requisitions deferred to give suitable instructions, so that not even yet has there come commissioner or money to make provision of victuals. Do they wish to ask her what victuals she has to send them, as if she ought to furnish the victuals at her own expense, a thing which she has not done for the Emperor? Cannot refrain from telling Chapuys, in confidence, that if the King of England's ministers do not wish to make great effort against France (as the King of France affirms that he is assured) there is no need to blame her; for the result will show too plainly to whom the fault is to be imputed, without the possibility of excuse, if they had other wish than to do well, as she hopes they had not. Requires him, upon opportunity, to make her excuses to the King, and represent what endeavours she has made to serve him in the setting forward (a l' adresse) of his army.
At making this despatch received his letters of the 6th inst. together with those to the Emperor, which are answered as far as touches affairs of her government. If the King questions whether the Emperor's army was in the enemy's country at the day appointed, because Commercy and Ligny were not of the kingdom, although they took part with the king of France, being held in fief from him, and have by force been reduced to the Emperor's obedience, he could not say that his own army is yet in France, for the Boulognois, Ardre and Montreul are not of the kingdom but members of the county of Arthois. As to the money; the duke of Norfolk wrote to her to value the new groz of England at six groz of Flanders and three patarts of Brabant, but, on making assay, she found it not worth above four groz of Flanders or two patartz of Brabant, "en descomptant le droict, signoriage et labeur, comme l'on donne en la monnoye de sa Majesté," and therefore wrote that she could not so value it. Also the carters complain that they were promised 7 sous a day for each horse, which they understood to be in money such as the Emperor paid last year, and at their levying they were given the crown at 38 sous, but when they came to Calais it was given at 45 sous and that which had been paid at 38 sous rebated to 45 sous, to their discouragement. The carters of Waes have sent word that daily they are beaten and robbed of their horses and mares, and know not to whom to have recourse, and that, unless other order is imposed, they mean to steal away from the camp at the risk of hanging. It does not seem reasonable that when delivered to the King for his service they should be illused. Unless the chiefs and captains protect the carters they will find themselves without carts. Has ordered the chastisement of those who steal away without passport, but if they are treated as they send word she would do wrong to punish them.
As to the horsemen coming from Oostland, whom the King does not now want, his commissaries have continually solicited her to write to the count of Benthem to give them passage. Offered to do so if they would send to the said Count on the King's part, which to her surprise they would not do. Perceives that, if she had written, the men would have remained upon the country like Landenberger's. Lytmalier (sic) has only brought about 80 horses. The rest remain still about the county of Benthem and could not be at the King's camp for three weeks. Octavian Bosch denies that he ever confessed in England, to the Secretary who was with him in the Tower, that he promised the Dauphin service, by advertisements or otherwise. His process and that of his accomplice will be made within two days and if they confess anything important she will advertise Chapuys to impart it to the King.
Fr. Modern transcript of the original minute at Vienna, pp. 5. Original headed: "A l'ambassadeur Chapuis en Engleterre de xie de Juillet, 1544."
Spanish
Calendar,
vii. 145.
2. Answer of the lieutenants and captains of Landenberg's band, to the message brought from the Queen of Hungary by Cornelis Scepperus, that they are willing to serve the King of England "provided they get two months' pay in advance, besides having their expenses paid up to the day."
From a Vienna MS.
11 July. 898. Chr. Mont to Henry VIII.
R. O. Since the Emperor's departure nothing worth writing has happened in these parts. Sends a Latin translation of the statutes and decrees of the late Diet. There is a certain rumour that the duke of Brunswick has raised a great force for the recovery of his lost government. Such a tragedy at this time will dissolve the Emperor's expedition into France and the promised loan to the Emperor will drop; and this civil war will cause great commotion in Germany, as many are secretly implicated in it. It is hoped that the Emperor's prudence will prevent it. Spires, 11 July, 1544.
Lat. Hol., p. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd.
11 July. 899. Chr. Mont to Paget.
R. O. As one who has experienced his patronage, begs his commendation of a Latin translation of the decrees of the late Diet of Spires which the writer sends to the King. Much wished to send a copy to the lord Chancellor, but as he is unable to afford a secretary, time did not permit. Begs to be commended to the lord Chancellor and also to Paget's colleague, Dr. Petrus. Spires, 11 July, 1544.
Lat. Hol., p. 1. Add. Sealed. Endd.
6 & 12 July. 900. Matthew, Earl of Lennox.
See Grants in July, Nos. 62, 63, 95, 96.
R. O. 2. Copy of the grant to Matthew, earl of Lynox and Margaret his wife of the castle of Whorleton, Yorks., etc., 12 July, 36 Hen. VIII. [See Grants in July, No. 96.]
Large paper, pp. 6. Endd.: A note of the earl of Lennox lands in Yorkshire, 1,213l. 16s. 4d.
12 July. 901. Henry VIII. to the Archbishop of York and the Prebendaries there.
Add. MS.
5,884, f. 73b.
B.M.
Has nominated to the deanery of York vacant by the death of Dr. Leyton, Dr. Wotton, now ambassador resident with the Emperor. Understands that by their statutes whoever is elected dean should first be prebendary of the said church, but desires them notwithstanding to elect him and see him put in possession; also to provide him a prebend there on the first opportunity. Westminster, 12 July, 36 Hen. VIII.
Modern copy, p. 1.
12 July. 902. Sir Robt. Southwell and Sir Edw. North to Paget.
R. O. According to the King's commission, have taken the account of Sir John Gresham for the goods of the 7 ships sold at Portsmouth, amounting to 12,745l. 6s. 6d. and for 18,500l. delivered by exchange to William Damesell. He has served the King truly and painfully. Some of the goods from the ships, worth 785l., are still in Gresham's custody at Bridewell. The ready money "remaining upon the foot of both accounts" amounts to 203l. 11s. 7d. and Damasell is accountable for the 18,000l. Pray God to send him "a prosperous journey and a good return." London, 12 July. Signed.
P. 1. Add.: Chief Secretary. Endd.: 1544.
12 July. 903. Paget to Suffolk.
R. O. After seeing his letters to the King and to the Council and those to him from Norfolk and the lord Privy Seal, with the trumpet's declaration by mouth, the King commands Paget to write that, albeit Boulloyn does stand upon a rock, yet is it the better to be mined, although more painful to the pioneers; for why is not his Majesty as well able to mine through rock as those within to countermine as they do? His purpose is not to win by mining, but (the ground being commodious and the housing thick and near the walls) to shoot with his ordnance and mortars and make terrible frayes against those within, and so "astoune" and torment them to "fall to composition."
And, as for Montereul, you shall signify to Norfolk that, as he knows, every frontier town is made as strong as possible; and if, because they are strong, no man has courage to essay the winning of them, little good is to be done in France; also that, howsoever the town be now, his Highness is sure it was as the platts purport when these platts were made, as Thomas Palmer of Guisnes and Sir George Carew, who was there last of any Englishmen, can tell. Considering the scarcity in Norfolk's camp, the King sees no likelihood of being able to pass the Soomme, and, therefore, if you make both Montereul and Boloyne impregnable his Majesty may return home without doing anything, which shall neither be to his honor nor the reputation of those in charge under him. As the enemies study their defence, so men of experience must devise how to invade, as the King doubts not but they will; and, as for the 4,000 within Montereul, Norfolk knows how Frenchmen count their numbers, "which vaunt always commonly two for one;" and even if there be so many they are mostly but Frenchmen, and Norfolk has Englishmen with him. As for the difficulty in joining the boats the King thinks that, with practice, it will be found easy enough.
The King is glad that all things are in such forwardness, and trusts to be at Calais "shortlier" than you write; for had not the wind blown this morning at Dartforth as it did when you were constrained to land at Gravesend, his Highness intended to be, if the weather served, at Calais on Tuesday, (fn. n4) and yet hopes to be there on Wednesday. "His Majesty dineth even now at Gravesende and intendeth to lie this night at Reynam, and so forward without much tarrying till he come over." Gravesende, this Saturday, 12 July, at 12 of the clock, 1544.
Draft corrected and finished in Paget's hand, pp. 4. Endd.: Mr. Secr. Mr. Paget to my l. of Suff., xij Julii, 1544.
12 July. 904. Shrewsbury and Others to the Queen and Council.
Add. MS.
32,655. f. 93.
B.M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 280.
Enclose letters from the wardens of the East and West Marches and from Robert Maxwall to his father. Because Angus and Sir George Douglas make some assembly of their friends (probably to make themselves the stronger against the time of the Parliament) the warden of the East Marches seems to mistrust some invasion. Believe it not, but will have due regard thereto. Yesterday Sadler received 5,000l. from Sir Ric. Riche by the hands of James Rokeby. Darneton, 12 July, 1544. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
13 July. 905. The King's Party in Scotland.
See Grants in July, 62-3, 95-6, and 101-5.
13 July. 906. The Privy Council to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS.
32,655. f. 95.
B.M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 281.
Enclose six letters from the King to be delivered with all diligence, as they "concern matter of great importance." Westm., 13 July, 1544. [Signed by Cranmer, Wriothesley, Hertford and Petre.] (fn. n5)
Enclose also two letters from Brownston to Arren and to Sir George Douglas with copy of that to Arren to be conveyed to Sir George.
The King took his journey hence towards Calays on Friday. (fn. n6)
P. 1. Add. Endd.: Mynute to th'erle of Shrewsbury, xiijo Julii, 1544.
13 July. 907. Norfolk and Others to Suffolk.
R. O. Thanks for divers letters and for promise of aid with drink, which they regret to perceive shall be but 20 tun. Have laid siege to Monstrell, but not like a siege, for two gates are left open and a third may be used freely at night. Are enforced to give this liberty because the Burgundians "woll in no wise lie in any quarter but near unto one of us." The lord Privy Seal is lodged in a little vale two flight shots off the town, "continually visited with their ordnance very quickly," and has begun a trench for the great ordnance. Norfolk is lodged half a mile from Abbevile gate, because he finds no place to lay his company out of danger, and they of the town often shoot into his camp. Will trench towards the town when the pioneers finish the first trench. The town stands so ungraciously that save the little hole where the lord Privy Seal lies there is no place out of danger; and on the side which Mons. de Reux said was easy men cannot be lodged to defend the ordnance within a mile of the town, and even if the ordnance might be brought near, it would have to shoot so upright that it would be long ere a good breach was made. In the town are between 4,000 and 5,000 men, with Mons. de Bees, Mons. La Guysche, and other captains. Have 4 cannons, 8 demy-cannons and 4 culverins, which the Burgundians say is too little to make one battery; and having only powder and shot for———(blank) days' battery, they will make none till all the trenches are made. Jheronymous says "he never marked the town without but only within," and that at his being there, the great bulwark without Abbevile gate was not made, which now scours so many places.
Beg him to help them to be furnished with bread and drink, for without his help they cannot continue here. It is painful to send horsemen and footmen day by day to St. Omer's to convey victuals, and dangerful too, with the garrisons of Headyng and Turwaine so near the way. There are 900 horses in Turwaine. Camp beside Monstrell, 13 July.
P.S.—The masters of the ordnance say there is not powder and munitions for more than eight or ten days' battery. Powder and bullets for the great pieces should be sent to St. Omer's, to be fetched thence if needed. It will be six days before they finish the trenches and can begin battery. Signed: T. Norffolk: J. Russell: T. Cheyne: H. Surrey: W. Howard: Water Devereux: T. Wentworth: Franssys Bryan.
Pp. 3. Endd.: My l. of Norff. [and my] 1. Pryvey Seale to the duke of Suff., xiijo Julii, 1544.
13 July. 908. Edmond Harvel to Henry VIII.
R. O. Wrote on the 6th inst. The Imperial soldiers that were in Carignan have, with the supplement of 3,000, taken Bricel, a town of the cardinal of Ferrare worth 8,000 cr. yearly, and are destroying the country about Mirandula to prevent any assembly for the Frenchmen, who intend to make a new army in Italy by the Bishop's help, who lately made 4,000 men in Rome for Piero Stroci. The Bishop has "nigh hand accomplished the fortification of the burgo of St. Petir in Rome," where 6,000 men are labouring continuously. The Bishop lately, in presence of the Emperor's daughter, said that the Emperor did worse to join with Henry than the French king did to be confederate with the Turk; "also he declared in great presence of men what great cruelty your Majesty had used against the Scotts, and caused the patriarch Grimany to confirm the same, who, at the Bishop's instance, spake of those matters at length and also much odiously; whereby appeareth what extreme rage and impudency reigneth in the Bishop, who, being author of all the evil followed in Scotland, by th'interdicting of the capitulations made between your Majesty and the Scots, so equally would give unto the same most unworthy blame, where, to the witness of all mankind, the said Bishop sustaineth the whole imputation himself of all the ruins followed in Scotland, by the sending of his legate Grimanye thither to exhort that nation, by his authority, to declare themself to the world of most execrable perfidy." It is death to the Bishop to see Henry prosper against the Scots and Frenchmen, reputing their ruin conjoined with his; and he hates this Signory for refusing to join him and the French king. "The Bishop is certainly esteemed of all men of a passing cruel, vindictive and furious nature; which shall be to his confusion at length." Barbarossa made great preys in Naples, and demanded of the Viceroy 30,000 cr. of ransom. When last heard of, he was in Calabria going towards Constantinople. The Turk "was gone to Burcia in Natolia for solace of hunting." The Frenchmen in Piedmont have asked truce, which Guasto will not grant. Guasto remains in Millan sick of the gout and Don Joan de Veglia has the government of the Imperial army. The taking of Ligny is divulged here, and also the entry of Henry's army upon the enemy's lands "with great power and provisions." Venice, 13 July, 1544.
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
14 July. 909. The Council with the Queen to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 97.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 282.
Bearer, Mr. Hutton, deputy of Carlisle castle, declares that it is not furnished with gunners as the necessity of the time requires. Shrewsbury shall write to the captain to know its state and take order accordingly.
Draft, p. 1. Endd.: A mynute to th'erle of Shrewsbury, xiiijo July.
14 July. 910. Shrewsbury and Others to the Queen and Council.
Add. MS.
32,655, f. 98.
B. M.
Hamilton
Papers,
ii., No. 283.
Herewith are letters from the wardens of the West and Middle Marches of exploits done in Scotland, other letters from the Warden of the West Marches, with letters to him from Glencarn and Robert Maxwell, the copy of a letter from Argile to Arren, and a short letter from Anguishe to certain Armestronges (in which "he seemeth to challenge them because they be Englishmen"). Yesternight received the Council's letters to Shrewsbury, with the King's answer to be made by Wharton to Robert Maxwell's demand for assurance, who has accordingly written to Wharton. Darneton, 14 July, 1544. Signed by Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler.
P. 1. Add. Endd.
14 July. 911. Vaughan to Paget.
R. O. On the 14th inst. Tadeus, the King's post, arrived at 5 a.m. with your letter to me, and a packet of Bonvise directed to his house here, which I delivered, and "received again, of the merchants to whom I delivered the same, ij proxies, th'old which before was sent hither by Bonvyxe and a new also made according to the draft of the Welsars" lately sent to the Council by me. Upon seeing the new proxy the Welsar promised to speak with Jasper Dowche at his return from Brussels, and then talk with me; so, I can write no more till Dowchie's return, who will be here tonight. On the 11th I despatched John Dymok and Thos. Locke to Saynt Omer's with 14,000l. Fl. for my lord of Norfolk, according to letters from my lord of Suffolk and Sir Ant. Browne; who wrote to us to send 10,000l. st., which is impossible as we receive only Flemish money, but 14,000l. Fl. is more than 10,000l. sterling. Begs to be hereafter ordered to pay in Flemish money, as sterling money rises and falls with the exchange, and they cannot keep account unless they pay as they receive. If other shift can be made for money it were pity that the King's lead should come hither, "for so great a 'trowpe' of lead will greatly hurt the price thereof." With the world full of wars, merchants dare not give credit for great sums, lest the bruit thereof hinder the credence of their companies. As he perceives the Council desirous to have money furnished from these parts, he will earnestly strive to get it. Writes not this in answer to the letter by Tadeus, but as advice pending the coming of Tadeus. Is in great trouble for lack of help and would like Mr. Chamberleyn or "some other sober, sad and witty folks" joined with him. "It is too much for me alone, in th'absence of Dymok and Lock, both to receive money, keep account of money, run and go to and fro the merchants without ceasing, and when the money is received to see it well and safely kept, whiles I, being out of my lodging, shall be driven to run so many ways." The Welsar has just come to say that he is pleased with this last proxy and, if I "cause the Bonvixes here to promise to make their bond," will straightway pay the rest of the money; and now I am alone, wherefore pray "help that Mr. Chamberleyn may be kept here." Andwerp, 14 July.
Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.: 1544.
14 July. 912. Gardiner to Paget.
R. O. I send herewith Stephen Vaughan's letters, which my lord Great Master this afternoon [sent] (fn. n7) to my lord Chamberlain and me, and which I trusted to have myself delivered this evening, as all expected to see the King here at this tide, "and now we trust his Majesty did not essay it, the weather was so calm." Calays, Monday night, 14 July.
Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
15 July. 913. Arrangements for Victualling.
R. O. The Emperor's commissaries general for victuals, horses and wagons, in pursuance of the order given this 15 July, 1544, by the duke of Suffolk, the King's lieutenant general, in presence of the Council at Calais, to write out the order which might be kept, according to their declaration of it yesterday to the said Duke (at the camp at Marquise, by command of the Queen Regent), which he has reported to the King, say as follows:—
Coming towards the said Duke, they spoke at St. Omer with the count du Roeux, governor of Arthois, who thought that, to conduct victuals to the camp at Monstureul, a staple should be fortified at Faulquemberghe; so that the convoy of St. Omer's might deliver victuals there, to be convoyed thence by the Camp, and return to St. Omer with the empty wagons from the Camp. Thus, instead of going twice a week, on account of the great distance, they might go three times or oftener. The marshal of the host and his provosts should treat victuallers well and pay them reasonably, or they will not return a second time. Long ago the Queen made proclamation for victuals to be brought to the King's camp, and granted freedom from tolls and from arrest to such as carried them, and declared to the late ambassador (fn. n8) with her, and to others, her intention to assist the King's servants therein, and she will if necessary renew her proclamations. At the place where the staple is made the King should have commissaries to deal with the victuallers. The commissaries at the principal staple should always have 200 or 300 wagons, to send victuals to the Camp or to help the victuallers. It is needless here to mention the order for horses and wagons, as an ample memoire was delivered to Mr. Halle of the Emperor's usage therein last year. With regard to the 20 conductors of this country allowed yesterday by the Duke for conduct of the wagons; if the King will appoint Mr. Halle or some other, the Commissaries will devise with him of their duties and salaries, or else will give it in writing.
French, pp. 4. Endd.: For the conduct of victails to the camps.
15 July. 914. Landenberg's Men.
Add. MS.
5,753, f. 180b.
B. M.
Value of harness specified delivered to certain captains of Landenberge's 4,000 footmen at Aconne, 4 June 1544, to be rebated out of their month's wages, viz. to captains Jacobe Goet, Frederic van Hambooch, and Jacobe Knoringer. Total, 288 Phs. 20 sts. rebated, 15 July 1544, in presence of "the master of the bysshope of Luke's palles," at Luke, out of their month's wages "which Mr. Scaperius made according as the Emperor's majesty giveth," viz. 6,144 pays at 4 Phs.
Pp. 2. Endd.: A bill of harnes.
15 July. 915. Wotton to Henry VIII.
R. O.
St. P., ix. 733.
On Sunday, 6 July, the Emperor departed from Metz and journeyed by Pontamouson and Toul to St. Digier's, with about 10,000 footmen and 2,000 horsemen, who marched in battle array. Arrived at the camp on the Sunday following and marched round the town to their lodging place. Were shot at by the town, but all shots fell short save one that went over them. The fall of a piece of the wall, of which so much was spoken, was of no importance. There are 3,000 footmen within, of whom is captain La Lande, who was at Landrecy. It is said that there are also 100 spears of Orleans's band; if so, the count of Sanxerre, who has charge under Orleans, or else Tavanes, his lieutenant, or both, must be within. St. Digier lies beside the Marne in a plain, and seems about the size of Dunkerke. Battery began two days before our arrival. "The continual rain until the last quarter of this moon hath much letted th'Emperor's army." Describes how on the morrow of their arrival the prince of Orange was dangerously wounded. The same evening there was a great alarm, and certain footmen came out of the town and returned in while two horsemen escaped out to the woods. After shooting all the following night, assault was made at 9 a.m. next morning by five ensigns of Spaniards, who returned four times to the breach but finally retired, while 12 ensigns of lanzknechts who were commanded to succour them did nothing praiseworthy. About 300 Spaniards are slain and as many hurt, but Wotton hears of no gentlemen lost save one Italian belonging to the Viceroy. The Emperor cannot with honor now depart, but, if he were still at Toul or Metz, Wotton thinks he would not make haste hither. Dr. Carle, who is now the duke of Cleves's agent with the Emperor, says that during the assault a French herald was taken by the Emperor's men. The physicians have no great hope of the prince of Orange.
Had written thus far when John Honnyng reported "that the Prince is departed." Camp at Sainct Digier, 15 July, 1544. Signed.
Pp. 3. Add. Endd.
15 July. 916. Wotton to Paget.
R. O. The Emperor, departing from Metz towards the camp, tarried nowhere past one night save at Pontamouson, where he lay two nights and visited the queen of Sicylye, (fn. n9) the present duke of Lorayne's granddame, sister to Charles of Egmont, the last duke of Geldres, who lives now professed in a monastery of St. Clare. "She is called queen for because that René duke of Lorayne, her husband, by whom duke Charles of Burgundye was discomfited, wrote himself, as his predecessors did, king of Sicilye, howbeit that he never saw neither the one Sicilye nor the other." Never heard of so slender provision of victuals as in this camp, and so dear that Wotton has to fill his servant's bellies with wine at 7 stivers the quart; although he has bought another car since leaving Spire, he needs another great cart, for unless he provides his own bread and drink "we shall suffer as great misery as they did in Provence." Already victuallers are robbed, and what will it be "when we are en l'Isle de France"? The Emperor seems earnest, but, if his affairs speed no better here than they do hitherto, Wotton cannot see how he can achieve his enterprise. Fears that more men are slain at this first assault than is allowed, for a servant of his saw seven ensigns of Spaniards go to the assault, of whom few returned, and many Dutchmen are also slain, so that there seem to be above 1,000 of the best soldiers slain and hurt. The fault is laid in the Spaniards for going too soon to the assault. "Written at the unhappy camp of Saincte Digier, the 15 of July, 1544."
Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.

Footnotes

  • n1. Privy Seals for all of them except the last have been found and will be noticed among the Grants in August (21 and 22 Aug.).
  • n2. See No 697
  • n3. See No. 877 (2 i, ii.).
  • n4. July 15th.
  • n5. Signatures struok out.
  • n6. July 11th.
  • n7. Word omitted?
  • n8. Layton.
  • n9. Philippine of Gueldres, widow of René II., duke of Lorraine.