Henry VIII: March 1545, 16-20 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 1, January-July 1545. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1905.

Citation:

'Henry VIII: March 1545, 16-20', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 20 Part 1, January-July 1545, ed. James Gairdner, R H Brodie( London, 1905), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol20/no1/pp165-179 [accessed 16 November 2024].

March 1545, 16-20



16 March.	367. The Privy Council to Paget and Wotton.
R. O. St. P., x. 351.	The King, being well amended of his rheum and cough, has, to show his desire for a friendly ending, travailed in person for the more speedy return of the articles (herewith) which they received there and sent hither. Upon the declaration whereof, to the Emperor or his Council, the arrest must, according to Scory's promise, be released generally; for nothing important is altered save that there is no mention of the Spanish soldiers, who were dying of hunger when they offered their service to the King and were accepted (fn. n1) ["whom, like as his Majesty is and wilbe pleased to release if th'Emperor shall persist and algates require them, so, his Majesty, thinking it very much to have it put in th'articles that they be rebels and traitors for offering their service to his Highness, especially in that case of their extreme famine and necessity, hath therefore left out those words of th'articles, being nevertheless the discharge of them employed (qu implied ?) in the general words of th'articles"]. (fn. n2) And the King thinks that, knowing how these Spaniards came to his service, his good Brother will not so earnestly require them, considering that the French king retains a greater number of that nation, and that to require these and leave the others with the King's enemy would seem strange, especially as certain Spanish captains at St. Homers are suffered openly to persuade those Spaniards who serve the King at Guysnes to revolt to the French king. The allowing of the traffic with France might prejudice the King's claim for the declaration against France; but, it may be said that, if the rest is agreed to, the King will wink at it for a time, provided that no victuals or things "for prised by th'articles "are carried.The King remits to them the treating of the place and time of the Diet.As Scory declared that the Emperor means to proceed with the Scottish ambassador no otherwise than shall please the King, offering to make him such answer as the King thinks meet; in case of any further conference therein, they shall say that the King thinks that he should be shortly sent away without hope of further hearing or treaty except the Scots first make suit to reconcile themselves with the King, to whom they have given just cause of wars, as Paget shall relate. And where, in a long discourse made as of himself, Scory said that the Emperor was willing to travail to bring all things to quietness, and that the coming of this Scottish ambassador might give opportunity; the King desires them to feel whether the Emperor is so affected, and to say that they have advertised the King of these overtures, and perceive that he forgets not what advantage these wars in Christendom give to the Turk, and that no man more desires an universal peace in Christendom, for the common wealth of which he entered these wars for his friend's sake, and so would be glad to see the other side practise earnestly to restore this universal peace, and would refuse no reasonable conditions; and much better occasion than the coming of this Scottish ambassador ("which occasion his Highness like the not ") might be taken of the Emperor's friendly disposition, or of the articles which the King sent from Bulloyn to Wotton to be declared to the Emperor "when Arras untruly reported his Majesty's contentation that the Emperor should make his own peace," and the Emperor may, of himself, travail to bring the French king to as many of these articles as possible; and if he bring the French king to offer reasonable conditions the King will doubtless accept them, but he bought Bulloyn dearly and means not to leave it. Finally, as Frenchmen and Scots there make great bruit of the numbers of our men slain at this last journey to Mewrehouse in Scotland, you shall declare the truth, which is that of our men of all sorts there were not slain above 160, and of the Scots 200. The death of Sir Raff Eure makes "the bruit bigger, who, if he had not given too much credit to those false new reconciled Scots," was likely to have good success.
	Draft corrected by Petre, pp. 15. Endd.: M. to Mr. Secretary, Mr. Paget, etc., xvj^o Marcii 1544.
16 March.	368. Anthony Cave to John Johnson.
R. O.	Tykfford, 16 March 1544:—After commendations to you and my cousin your wife, I have received your letter with your news out of Flanders, and "trust God shall send us better when his pleasure is." My house, which you write that Dymmocke and one Lomnar would have, I had rather my cousin Blase or some of my friends had. For the first year I would reserve in it only my "coullhowse," but in other years I will have two or three chambers. I thank you and my cousin Otwell for the answer he made Mr. Baker therein. "I perceive ye have written to Henry Southwyk according to Anthony Byskettes advice. I am glad that ye have so done; and by Mr. Lyghe's answer I perceive well enough what he meaneth." I am sorry you wrote to Henry South wycke for the payment of Mr. Wylkes; for, although his bill was payable the last of February, he should have waited until the payments of the Cold Mart, as others of the Company that buy wools make no payments till then, nor do Bertram Haghe and the best merchants on that side the sea.
	Gives long directions about his wool; and speaks of dealings with Mr. Kellom Throgmerton and Mr. Clement in matters concerning Mr. Catysbye and the evidence of Latheburye.Directions about the reckonings of George Graunt and Mr. Smythe, and business with Henry South wyck.
	P.S. —"Of my Mistress Dacres require other evidences. These received be to small effect. And with Rose, th'Emperowr being our friend and those countries open, proceed as ye think best to have more butchers, so they kill good stuff, and provide money for the King's winter fees. Write me if Mr. Jamys Gage be at the Court; I would the King's fees should not escape my hands. Speak in my name in time."
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: merchant of the Staple at Callais, in Lyme Streat, at London. Endd. as answered on the 19 March.
16 March.	369. William Lucy, the Elder, to John Johnson.
R. O.	John Long, soldier of Calais, who was lately in communication with you for his son to be your apprentice, died on the 11th inst. If you take the son, you shall have 20l. to your use for the first half of his years, so that he may have it again to occupy the other half. Tells further how the widow and other children are left, and how the son, who has been a year at St. Omers, both speaks and writes French well.Calais, 16 March 1544.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: in Lymestreit at London. Endd.: aunswerd the 29 in March a^o 1545 from Lo., etc.
16 March.	370. Mayor and Eschevins of St. Omer to Deputy of Calais.
Harl. MS. 288, f. 50. B. M.	We know not what to say in reply to your letter. True it is that, a short time ago, there were in this town certain Spaniards bearing the straight red cross (croi.c droicte rouge); we know not where they are gone nor whether they had here any communication with the French. We would not suffer that in this town without first informing you. We would not hinder those of your side or of the side of France from coming to this town without lettres d' ordonnance a ces fins from the Emperor; but to practise anything together sinisterily we would not suffer it, for we desire in all things to please you.16 March 1544. Subscribed: "voz humbles serviteurs Maie^r and esch's de S't[O]mer."
	French, p. 1. Add.
16 March.	371. Paget and Wotton to Henry VIII.
R. O.	On the 16th inst. we received letters from your Majesty's Council, and, as the Regent was ridden forth a hunting, we required to speak with the Emperor's Council; and so President Schore, Scepperius, and Secretary Joisse came to us.After hearing our instructions, Schore answered that he was advertised out of Zeland and Flandres that your ship of war, having taken a Scottish ship within the Emperor's stream, brought her to Armuye, where the officers arrested both her and her prize, as is usual. The ship of war, nevertheless, departed and was driven into Sluyse haven, where she was again arrested for breaking the former arrest. Another cause why she was stayed was that certain Portingales complained that she had taken from a Portingale ship bound hitherwards a quantity "of figges and reasons." The matter would be declared to the Queen at her return and an answer given. And whereas we required to know whether the Emperor meant to observe the treaty, he said that the Emperor always intended to observe the amity, and, as for himself and those with him, an ill death might he die that would not employ himself for the entertainment of the amity.
	I, the Secretary, replied that there was no cause why your ships should be arrested here, nor ought they to have their victuals intercepted, but rather should be refreshed, as the Spaniards were who lately passed by England, who would otherwise have perished of hunger; and, as for the Portingales, since they had not complained to your Majesty first, they ought not to be heard here, and your subjects, coming not hither to tarry or to traffic, ought not to be judged here, nor was the matter of a few figs sufficient cause to stay your ships that were so chargeable and necessary to you. And, where they said that the Emperor would conserve the amity, I said that there was an amity and also a treaty, and it was the treaty I now spoke of.
	Schore answered that he thought it better to defer that matter till we had answer "concerning the articles of late delivered unto us"; but I said I thought it better to know the Emperor's mind herein first, for if the treaty so solemnly made should not be observed there was less hope of agreement in other things. Schore replied that he thought as before, but, if we required otherwise, they would report it to the Emperor and learn his answer. He seemed to make little of the ship of war, as though, at the Queen's coming, there would be no difficulty made for her release. As for the Emperor's answer for his observance of the treaty we look for de[lay] until we have answer of your pleasure for the rest. Bruxelles, 16 March, late in the night, 1544. Signed.
	Pp. 3. Add.Endd.
16 March.	372. Paget to Henry VIII.
R. O. St. P., x. 347.	On the 14th inst. Scory and Skipperius came to declare (1) that the merchants bound to discharge Henry's credit here (whose names, with the amounts they undertook to pay, Paget had before delivered) "should have liberty, with their goods, to satisfy the same," and (2) that the Scottish ambassador made such importunate suit that the Emperor had been forced to appoint the Queen to hear his credence, which was, first, that the Governor and nobles of Scotland, understanding that they were comprehended in the treaty with the French king, sent the ambassador to ratify it; second, to deliver the order of the Toyson which their late King had; and, third, to confirm the old treaties with these Low Countries or else conclude new. "Why!" said Paget "and are the Scots comprehended in the treaty?" "No, by God!" quoth Scory "but they would fain, and in the mean time they fantazy so." Scory added that the treaty with England would not be forgotten, and that, as the Queen was gone hunting until Tuesday night, the ambassador was not likely to trouble her again until then, by which time (they trusted) Paget should have a resolute answer from Henry touching that matter and the rest of their conference the other day. Here he paused and, after three or four turns, walking in the chamber, said suddenly, smiling, "What, Monsr. le Secretary, you are waxen of late a great practitioner with the Queen of Navarre." The words so amazed me that he might have seen my blushing had it been day. "'What practitioner ?' quoth I, and began to gather myself together." "Mary!" quoth he, still smiling, "you sent lately letters to her practising therein a peace, etc." Details further talk in which he said it was his custom to arm his spies with such letters, for otherwise they could learn nothing in France, and that he thought Scory too suspicious. Thinks this shows how the Frenchmen work, and that Henry must take his advantage when he may get it; and, as the French ambassador here has evidently shown a copy of Paget's letter, it were not amiss to answer the Queen of Navarre (minute enclosed for approval) and send the letter hence in such a way that it may peradventure be opened and read before it comes to her. Begs instructions in the rest that is to be done here; "for they long sore for it here," and the merchants at Andwerp send hither hourly. Would also know whether Henry will retain more Almains or other men of war, for he receives continual offers of service, but, not seeing how they can pass to serve, and knowing that Henry thought he had already sufficient strangers in garrison, puts them off with promises of answer in seven or eight days.
	That he has not satisfied Henry's expectation touching occurrents is because he has no acquaintance; and, now that Granvele, Darras and Boysot are gone, there is little stirring.The Emperor uses Scory rather as a referendary than a Councillor, and indeed he is thought meeter "for the order of common justice than for the practising in princes' causes." Was visited the morrow after his arrival by the duke of Alberkerq, who, in presence of Wotton and Kerne, passed the time with good words, as he was wont to do in England. On Saturday last he came again and, finding Paget alone, spoke of Henry, the Queen, &c., after his accustomed fashion, and asked about this arrest. Told him of the untrue bruit of the arrest of the Spanish ships and showed him "the treaty in that point." He said he thought it plain, and would not omit to speak therein.Learnt from him that the Spaniards who came out of the Spanish ships to serve Henry were being sent home with but 15 days' wages, to be paid at their landing, and were merely sent hence "to avoid the country of them." Forgot not to tell this to Scory and Skiperius, the same night, adding that, even if they had been sent "for such a purpose as was said,"it was strange to stick at 400 soldiers when the treaty allowed any number. To this they mumbled out a slender answer. The Emperor delays making the declaration for the alternative, with fair words, objecting that the French king's promise is not fulfilled, Stenay not being delivered as it should be, nor the duke of Lorayne's letters of cession of it to the French king, nor is Cahors in Piedmont restored, which was taken since the convention at Nyce, and which the French king says that he bought. All men think this peace cannot last long. Granvelein going up to Germany feared the Landgrave, who has now lately written a book to the Emperor, and therein very slanderously of Granvele. Encloses letters from Mr. Buckler, showing the state of Germany, and advertisements from De Musica of the Bishop of Rome's doings. "This fellow" might have done good service could he have kept his own counsel; but he has been "a blab" and discovered himself to be Henry's servant, He has seen much and has good experience abroad. Bruxelz, 16 March, late in the night, 1544. Signed.
	Pp. 9. Add. Endd.
16 March.	373. Paget to Petre.
R. O.	Thanks for letters.What he writes to the King shows why he cannot easily learn occurrents. As to his desire to come home, protests that, althoughno man travels with more pain than he, and he left his wife "in despair of life," and nine young children and his house out of order, he was glad to take this journey for the sake of his Sovereign's affairs. Seeing it not expedient to tarry here if the first answer touching the arrest was persisted in, and that his instructions commanded it, he was moved to return; and he begs Petre to beseech the King to believe this and that he thinks upon nothing else but how to do best service. Begs that in the answer to their former letters everything may be distinctly signified and nothing left without answer. Bruseles, 16 March, in the night, 1544.
	P.S. (not in his own hand).—I marvel that ye hear nothing of Hipp.; and doubt whether he will come again, for he went upon Saturday or Sunday was three weeks, and has had time to go and come twice. Nor do I believe the answer will be good, for, seeing that it is expected that we should speak first, and that our overtures are used as my letter to the King shows, and, "worst of all, for that he (fn. n3) is made privy to everything which was th'author of that which is past between them and these, and will do what shall lie in his power, doubt you not, from time to time for the con-tinuance of the same, both in respect of his estimation and also of the benefit that groweth to him from hence thereby, besides that it is thought a good bargain for his master." Doubtless the King's experience perceives all this, and that things admit of no delay. The King sees that others rule not their affairs by the straight line of honor and equity; "and why should not we in policy do as the rest doth, viz., Cretizare cum Cretense For we be taught by all the old ancient and sage men, and I think, in my conscience, offend God never a whit. Thus you see a little how I have babbled my fantazie unto you, et iterum vale."
	Hol. except P.S., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
16 March.	374. Carne to Petre.
R. O.	As a despatch is now made thitherwards, signifies that here is no speaking of things between the Emperor and the Frenchmen, but that there is in France great preparation for the wars. Hears nothing of Germany since Grandvelle's departure. Three cardinals are said to be sent by the Bishop of Rome towards Trent, "whereof Poolle should be one." Can hear of none "sent the ther herhens." The Emperor is out of his diet since Wednesday, but keeps his chamber. He is "restored to his limbs that were impotent," and, after Easter, will towards Germany. A certain sect has taken the town of Empden beside Friseland. The Grave of Overempden was here of late for aid to recover it. Others of the same or a like sect have taken Wresell and another town of the duke of Cleves in Juliers. The Count de Buer gathers men in Friseland to repress the said sects.
	After writing the above, received a letter from Mr. Buclere, of the 12th inst., "that Grandvell came to Wormes about the iiijth of this, the King of Romayns is looked for there shortly, the Princes of Germany were not come thith'er then, and that men reckon there that there will be nothing done of any moment unless th'Emperor come thither himself." The Turk is at Adrinople. Bruxelles, 16 March. Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544.
17 March.	375. Henry VIII. to Mary of Hungary.
R. O. St. P., x. 355.	His servant, Baptista Boron, has purchased for him in Millan certain armour and harness, about 400, and to transport it hither only requires her licence, which he begs her to grant. Westm., 17 March 1544.
	French. Copy, broadsheet, p. 1. Add. Endd.: The K's Ma^te to the Regente of Flaund's in the favo^r of Bap^te Brown.
17 March.	376. Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler to Henry VIII.
Add. MS. 32,656, f. 210. B. M. Hamiltion Papers, ii., No. 427.	Send letters arrived from the lord Wardens of the East, West and Middle Marches, together with a letter to Shrewsbury from the earl of Cassilles. Darneton, 17 March 1544. Signed.
	P. 1. Add. Endd.
17 March.	377. Sir Robert Constable to [Shrewsbury].
Skrewsb. MS. A., p. 307. Heralds' College.	A kinsman of the abbot of Perselay's, called Mr. John Hameleton, who has taken me, will neither ransom me nor let me home upon bond, but have me to "relieve home" James Hamleton, the laird of Enderwyke, who is in Lord Ewre's hands.I beg your Lordship to let home the said laird upon bond for 40 days, as they will order me in Scotland as he is ordered in England, and my taker has sold me to Ellysawneder Hamelton, the laird of Endrewyk's eldest son, who for him will free me.I have few kinsfolk or friends in the North, and therefore beg you to be my helper, or else to write to the King for me declaring my services, especially at this time.
	If any man say "that I once pressed to horse or turned my face, but went on still with my lord Warden till he was slain and that there was no remedy, and if your lordship can prove that I was not tane on my feet defending myself," let me be punished to the example of all heartless traitors. Take no displeasure with me until I can speak for myself. Before coming out I borrowed 40l., which I lent among my soldiers. Wherefore, I beg you to let me have wages for me and my men for as long as we served, although few or none of them are escaped ("but I trust these that are not comen home are either tane or slain justly in the King our master's service "); also, at my coming home, help that I may have 100 men again as I had when the army was at Lethe, for without your Lordship's help I am undone. Eddynborwghe, 17 March.
	Hol., large paper, p. 1. Not addressed.
18 March.	378. Chancellor Wriothesley.
R. O. Rymer, xv. 66.	Surrender to the Crown by lord Chancellor Wriothesley of the rectories of Hurseley and Tychefeld, Hants. 18 March 36 Henry VIII.
	Enrolled [Cl. Roll, 36 Hen. VIII. p. 5, No. 27] as acknowledged, same day, before the King in Chancery.
Lansd. MS. 2, f. 20. B. M.	2. Contemporary copy of the above.
	Pp. 9.
18 March.	379. Walter Bucler.
R. O.	Acknowledgment of receipt, 18 March 36 Henry VIII., by John Burges, doctor of physic, from Sir John Williams, treasurer of Augmentations, for the use of Walter Buckler, the King's "ambassador on the other side the seas," of 40l. defrayed for the posting of letters. Signed.
	P. 1.
18 March.	380. The Privy Council to Lord Poynings.
R. O. St. P., x. 356.	Upon sight of his letters containing the credence of Hypolito from Madame de Temps, the Admiral and Longvyll, by which a speedy answer was required, the King's pleasure is that he shall signify to Hypolito that, truly, "those things which have no beginning can have no ending" and where the French have ministered occasion to treat for restitution of the old amity, letters from Court upon the receipt of his credence give assurance that most of those who have the mayning of the King's affairs will willingly travail to restore the old friendship between their master and the French king if they may see that this proceeding is not a mere practice but sincerely meant; and, "because vain curiosity or straining of courtesy who shall begin ought to have no place where very friendship is earnestly intended," as they have so well begun, the most direct way were for them to send secretly a man well instructed and authorised, to whom the King would, doubtless, open his mind frankly; and as for part of Bulloynoys, by which apparently they mean Estaples, without which they cannot well victual Monstrell, when other matters are agreed that will be no impediment. If they will not send a man hither, Poynings may say that, upon one being sent to Bulloyn, the King would doubtless send another; but if they mean only finesse and practices the King will take it more friendly "to stay even here." Hypolito is to be encouraged with good words and required to return with answer with diligence, Poynyngs giving him letters of credence to Longevill such as he brought.
	Touching the contention of the strangers' captains because of the diversity of wages, he shall confer with the lord Deputy, lord Gray and Mr. Wallop so that wages in both places may agree. As for the Spaniards, an experienced man (fn. n4) of that nation is appointed master of the camp of those who shall shortly repair thither, and he will take order for the stay of that sort.
	P.S.—To encourage Hypolito, Poynings shall give him 200 cr., which shall be repaid by the next convenient messenger; and shall advise him to travail that either Longevill or Mons. Dorth, who was ambassador here a little before these wars, may be secretly sent for these matters. Hipolito is to be persuaded to send a certain answer what success is likely to ensue.
	Draft corrected by Petre, pp. 9. Endd.: M. to the lord Poyninges, xviij^o [Marcii] 1544.
18 March.	381. The Privy Council to Shrewsbury and Others.
Shrewsb. MS. A., p. 325. Heralds' College. Lodge, i. 122.	The King has seen Shrewsbury's letters of the 14th inst., and, understanding, by Wharton's advertisement, that the master of Kyllmawres desires a safeconduct to Carlisle, grants it for six days. As his coming may be only to seduce the earl of Lynoux, the Council have written to the earl so that he may be the better armed to meet and answer overtures. Where it appears by Gilbert Swynow's letters that the Scots stay such gentlemen as were taken at Mewrhowse in order to ransom some of the King's prisoners taken at Solenmosse; Shrewsbury shall consider what captains and gentlemen were taken at this journey to Mewrhouse (noting those meetest for service) and what Scottish prisoners or their pledges, not being noblemen, remain here meet to be exchanged. Touching the fortifications at Berwike, because Sir Eichard Lee was come from Tymothe before the receipt of the Council's letters, the King means to despatch Archan thither; whom Shrewsbury shall furnish with money for the said fortifications. Order is taken for sending corn-powder and munitions, but no spears can be sent until they may be provided here. The King has seen "your letters, my lord of Duresme," with the schedule of names meet for the office of captain of Norham, and has named Sir George Bowes thereto, praying you to appoint him. As, amongst others, Read, the alderman of London, is prisoner in Scotland, Shrewsbury shall devise means for his redemption. Westm., 18 March 1544. Signed by Norfolk, Suffolk, Hertford, Essex, Winchester, Westminster and Petre.
	P.S.—Because it appears by Brommeston's letters that the King's enemies in Scotland give out that he will accept no peace but intends the utter destruction of that country, you, Mr. Sadleyr, shall signify, by cipher, to Bromeston the King's "good inclination" as it was shown to the earl of Cassells, so that the report of clemency proceeding from both may have the more credit. We send your lordship the letters to the earl of Lynoux unsealed, for you to peruse and despatch.
	Pp. 3. Add. To, &c, Shrewsbury &c. "and to the rest of his Highness' Privy Council there."
18 March.	382. Gilbert Swynehoo to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS. 32,656, f. 216. Hamilton Papers, ii., No. 428(1)	The Governor, Cardinal, Angus and all the lords on this side Forth are in Council at Edinburgh and have proclaimed that all between 60 and 16 shall be ready to come to the Borders with the Governor and the Lieutenant, with 15 days' victuals, upon 24 hours' warning; and all free holders of Scotland are to be at Edinburgh on the last of March. Assurance is taken between Argile and Huntlee and Donald of the Yles until Low Sunday, and the said Donald has promised to come to Sterling and accompany the Queen to Edinburgh if he may have pledges for his safety. It is devised that 600 wagers shall lie in the Marse and Tyvydale. The Governor, Angus, and the rest are content to refer all causes to the Queen, Cardinal and George Dowglas; so that the Cardinal and George Dowglas rule Scotland. Lord Somervell and the lairds of Fywe and Brunstane came to this last "rode," but Brunstane, falling off his horse and hurting his arm, got the Governor's licence to tarry at Lawdre. On Saturday night (fn. n5) two French ships reached Lethe with certain artillery, gunpowder and "money to fee wagers with." Cornhill, 18 March.
	Hol, p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
19 March.	383 Sir Robert Bowes.
	Lord Warden of the Middle Marches. See Grants in March, Nos. 53, 54.
19 March.	384. [Shrewsbury to Lord Wharton.]
Shrewsb. MS. A., p. 329. Heralds' College. Lodge, i. 127.	This day received letters from the earl of Cumberland, and encloses copies of the same and of his answer. In case the Scots make an attempt to Langhome, and Wharton intends to go in person to the rescue, he should have "a substantial regard" to the town of Carlisle and "to my lord of Lynoux, and specially if he be not gone afore to the earl of Casselles," remembering that lack of good order was the "only destruction" of the late Warden of the Middle Marches, which should be an example to Englishmen hereafter. Writes this as he would to his own son if he were in Wharton's office. Darneton, 19 March 1544.
	Draft, pp. 2.
19 March.	385. Matthew Kent to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS. 32,656, f. 223. B. M. Hamilton Papers, II. No. 429(3).	G.D. (George Douglas) came on Wednesday evening (fn. n6) to Fast Castle near Coldingham, on what business I cannot learn. The C. of A. (Count of Angus) comes also with certain horsemen; and the Governor remains in Edinburgh to keep those "de alla" ready for the C. of A., I mean the horsemen and good footmen of Fyf Anguex. They say that in 3 or 4 days 10,000 men will be ready for this moon, when they expect the English to attack Heume castle. The earls of Arguyll and Huntle are kept busy by him of the Isles, and will not come to this Council. They think themselves as good as the Governor. There is now no suspicion of G.D. and the C. of A. The Cardinal and they go the same way. I only hope to see a better day than we have had.
	Spanish.
	Continued in English in a different hand:—Unless my takers show gentleness I will not importune your lordship with any suit. I hope they will allow me to prove my friends, and if so my only trust is in your lordship, but as long as they keep me in captivity I will move nothing. I am more esteemed here than in England, and have so many enemies that I am in doubt to ride forth. Cobowrne, 19 March. "And now they carry me back to Lawdar."
	P. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
19 March.	386. William Damesell to Henry VIII.
R. O.	Has attended Mr. Secretary Paget, at Bruxels, by whose motion he is set at liberty and has passport to convey hence 1,000 barrels of gunpowder provided for the King, and also 4,000 pikes and certain harcquebutes. With these has, by Paget's advice, freighted two ships of Andwerpe which will be ready to depart in five days. Begs that ships of war may be sent to the Zeland coast to waft them; for if the powder lie long laden it will be both dangerous and chargeable. This bargain, as he has advertised sundry of the Council and the Master of the Ordnance, amounts to 12,000l. st., of which he has only received l,400l. Begs that 4,000l. or 5,000l. more may be sent hither by Sir John Gresham or other, so that he may pay what is owing, most of which should have been paid long since. Andwarpe, 19 March 36 Hen. VIII.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.: 1544.
19 March.	387. The Same to Wriothesley.
R. O.	To the same effect (and almost in the same words) as the preceding. Andwerp, 19 March, 1544.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add. Endd.
[19 Mar.]	388. Charles V.
Spanish Calendar, viii., No. 30.	"Draft reply to the points raised by Paget on the 16th March, the reply being given to him on the 20th." (fn. n7)
	(1) The English ship arrested at Sluys had evaded the embargo in Zeeland, but the Emperor would instruct Praet and his son to release her. (2) As to the declaration, the Emperor would, as he answered Hertford and Winchester, observe the treaty as far as he was bound.
	To this Paget remarked that when they quoted the treaty they were answered that the Emperor was not bound thereby; if the King had consented to the negociations, which he did not, was the Emperor for ever exempt from declaring against France although continuing at war with Scotland? He was answered that during the present war the Emperor was so exempt.
	The King's consent was subsequently debated by Paget, and he was told that to reopen that point he had better go over all the Emperor's reasons against making the declaration, and then, if he was a good servant of the Emperor, he would confess that there was no obligation. Paget thereupon swore that if so he would advise the Emperor to tell the King that at present there was no reason to make the declaration, but if France continued the war he would make it. He was answered that perhaps he would find all the rest of the Emperor's advisers of a contrary opinion.
19 March.	389. The Queen of Hungary to M. de St. Mauris.
Granvelle Papiers d'Etat, iii. 97.	* * *
	You will learn from the Emperor's letters all that has passed here with the French ambassadors, and the resolution which the Emperor has taken upon the declaration of the alternative. Watch what foot they dance upon when it is made, for I think that they will have much ado to hide what they have at heart. * *
	Brussels, 19 March 1545.
	French.
March.	390. Anne Askew.
Foxe, v. 538.	Her first examination. (fn. n8)
	"To satisfy your expectation, good people, this was my first examination, in the year of our Lord 1545, and in the month of March."
	First she was examined by Chr. Dare at Sadlers' Hall. When he (as one of the quest) inquired if she really believed the Sacrament was the very body of Christ, she questioned him in return "Wherefore was St. Stephen stoned?" and, as he confessed he could not tell, she also refused to "assoil his vain question." 2. He then said a woman had borne witness that she had read "how God was not in temples made with hands." She showed him the passages in Acts vii. and xvii., and being asked how she took those sentences, said she would not throw pearls among swine. 3. She confessed to saying that she had rather read 5 lines in the Bible than hear five masses, for the one edified her and the other not at all. 4. She denied saying that if an ill priest ministered, it was the Devil and not God. What she really said was that his ill could not hurt her faith, but in spirit she still received the body and blood of Christ. 5. Her view of confession was, she said, citing St. James, "that every man ought to acknowledge his faults to other, and the one to pray for the other." 6. As to the King's book, she could say nothing, having never seen it. 7. He asked if she had the Spirit of God in her, and she replied, if not she were but a reprobate or castaway.
	Then he called a priest to examine her, who inquired what she said about the Sacrament of the Altar; but she refused to answer, perceiving him to be a papist. 8. He then asked if she did not think private masses helped souls departed. She said, it was great idolatry to believe more in them than in the death which Christ died for us.
	She was then taken before the lord Mayor, who examined her as much as they had done, but laid one thing further to her charge which she had never uttered, viz. whether a mouse eating the Sacrament received God or no? This they asked her and she only smiled. The Bishop's chancellor told her she was much to blame for uttering Scriptures, saying St. Paul forbade women to speak of the word of God. She denied this was St. Paul's meaning, but only that a woman should not preach in the congregation. The lord Mayor commanded her to ward and refused to take sureties for her. She was had to the Compter, and no friend was allowed to speak to her for 11 days. But a priest was sent by the Bp. to examine her. Describes their interview, in which she said she was willing to be shriven, if it were by Dr. Crome, Sir Guilliam or Huntington ; and that she intended to receive the Sacrament at Easter. On which he departed, with many fair words.
	On 23 March "my cousin Brittayne came into the Compter unto me, and asked me whether I might be put to bail or no?" He went immediately to the lord Mayor, who said he could not bail her without the consent of a spiritual officer, and advised him to speak with the Chancellor of London. The Chancellor, when he went, told him that the matter was so heinous that he must make my lord privy. On the morrow he spoke both with the Chancellor and the Bp., who appointed next day for her to appear before him, and that the learned men she was affectioned to should be present to see that she was handled with no rigor. He said he knew of none that she bore special affection to; but the Bishop said "Yes, she is affectioned to Dr. Crome, Sir Guillam, Whitehead and Huntington." And he advised Brittayne to persuade her to utter the very bottom of her heart, and no man should take advantage of her words; but if she said anything amiss he and others "would be glad to reform me therein with most godly counsel."
	Next day the Bp. of London sent for her at 1, though he had appointed the hour at 3, told her he was very sorry for her trouble and wished to know her opinions on the matters laid against her, bidding her not to fear, for whatever she said in his house no man should hurt her. Begged to be excused giving answer until her friends came at 3. He said he had sent for those four men, but she desired him not to trouble them, as the two gentlemen (fn. n9) who were her friends were sufficient to testify what she should say. The Bp. then went into his gallery with Master Spilman, whom he desired to exhort her to utter all she thought. Meanwhile his Archdeacon commenced with her at his request. Account of their conversation, in which the Archdeacon suspected her wrongly of having a book of Frith's in her hand. Then came her cousin Brittayne with Master Hall (fn. n10) of Gray's Inn and others. The Bp. wished she would follow the advice of her well-willers and utter all things that burdened her conscience, and no advantage should he taken of her. She answered that she had nought to say, for her conscience was not burdened. As she persisted in this, Bonner laid to her charge her own report that she said "He that doth receive the Sacrament by the hands of an ill priest, receiveth the Devil and not God." This she denied saying, and explained what she did say as before to the quest and the lord Mayor. The Bp. said "What saying is this, in spirit? I will not take you at that advantage." She answered "My lord, without faith and spirit I cannot receive Him worthily."
	He then charged her with having said that the Sacrament remaining in the Pix was but bread. She denied having said it, though the quest had asked her such a question, which she refused to answer unless they could tell why Stephen was stoned. The Bp. then said she had alleged a certain text out of Scripture. She said she had only cited Paul's saying to the Athenians, Act xvii. [24]. He asked her what her belief was in that matter, and she said "I believe as the Scripture doth teach me." He asked "What if the Scripture doth say that it is the body of Christ?" She said "I believe as the Scripture doth teach me." He again asked "What if the Scripture doth say that it is not the body of Christ?" She still answered "I believe as the Scripture informeth me." He pressed this argument for a great while, to get her to make an answer to his mind; but she would not, and in the end said she "believed therein and in all other things as Christ and his holy Apostles did leave them."
	Gives further particulars of her examination, in which Dr. Standish and other priests tempted her to know her mind, and she confessed there were three score priests against her at Lincoln, where she had remained nine days to see what would be said against her. The Bp. left her, saying he would "entitle" somewhat of her meaning, "and so he wrote a great circumstance" (i.e. a confession for her to sign, clearing herself of imputations on her faith). He read it to her and asked if she agreed. She replied "I believe so much thereof as the Holy Scripture doth agree unto; wherefore I desire you that ye will add that thereunto." He told her she should not teach him what he should write. He then went into his great chamber and read the bill before the audience, "who inveigled and willed me to set to my hand, saying also that I had favor showed me. Then said the Bishop, I might thank others and not myself for the favor that I found at his hand; for he considered, he said, that I had good friends, and also that I came of a worshipful stock. Then answered one Christopher, a servant unto Master Denny, 'Rather ought you, my lord, to have done it in such case for God's sake than for man's.' Then my lord sat down, and took me the writing to set thereto my hand, and I wrote after this manner: 'I, Anne Askew, do believe all manner of things contained in the faith of the Catholic Church.' " (fn. n11)
Ib. p. 543.	Then, because I added "the Catholic Church" he flung into his chamber in a great fury. My cousin Brittayne followed, desiring him, for God's sake, to be good lord to me. He said "that I was a woman and he was nothing deceived in me. Then my cousin Brittayne desired him to take me as a woman, and not to set my weak woman's wit to his lordship's great wisdom." Then went in to him Dr. Weston and said "the cause why I did write there the Catholic Church was that I understood not the Church written afore." So, with much ado, they persuaded my lord to come out again and to take my name and those of my sureties, viz. my cousin Brittayne and Master Spilman of Gray's Inn. This done, we expected that I should have been put to bail immediately, but he committed me to prison again till next morrow to appear in the Guildhall, which I did. But they would not put me to bail there either, but read the Bp's. writing to me as before and commanded me again to prison. Then were my sureties appointed to come before them on the morrow in Paul's church, and did so. Yet they would once again have broken off with them because they would not be bound also for another woman whom they knew not, nor what matter was laid to her charge. At last, however, they took a bond of them for my forth coming, and so I was delivered.
	Written by me Anne Askew."
20 March.	391. Anne Askew.
Foxe, v. 542. (from Bonner's Register). (fn. n12)	"The true copy of the confession and belief of Anne Askew, otherwise called Anne Kyme, made before the Bishop of London, the 20th day of March in the year of our Lord God, after the computation of the Church of England, 1544, and subscribed with her own hand in the presence of the said Bishop and others whose names hereafter are recited, set forth and published at this present: to the intent the world may see what credence is now to be given unto the same woman, who in so short a time, hath so damnably altered and changed her opinion and belief; and therefore was rightly, in open court, arraigned and condemned."
	Confesses transubstantiation and all things taught in the King's Book, and promises henceforth never to say or do anything against them.
	Written 20 March 1544. "By me, Anne Askew, otherwise called Anne Kyme."
	[Witnesses] Edmund, bp. of London, John, bp. of Bedford, Owen Ogelthorpe, D.D., Richard Smythe, D.D., John Rudde, B.D., Will. Pye, B.D., John Wynnesley, archdeacon of London, John Croke, Edw. Hall, Robert Johnson, Alex. Breett, Francis Spylman, Edmund Buttes and others present.
20 March.	392. Durham College, Oxford.
R. O.	Surrender by Hugh Whitehed, dean, and the chapter of Durham cathedral, of their college called Durham College in the suburbs of Oxford, with the grove of wood adjoining it, and all its appurtenances. Dated 20 March 36 Hen. VIII. Seal appended.
	Parchment. See Eighth Report of Dep. Keeper of Public Records, App. II., 37. Enrolled, Cl. Roll, 37 Hen. VIII., p. 4, no. 16, without mem. of acknowledgment.
20 March.	393. Shrewsbury, Tunstall and Sadler to Henry VIII.
Add. MS. 32,656, f. 214. B. M. Hamilton Papers, ii. No. 428.	Send letters received from the Wardens of the East and Middle Marches, with one from Gilbert Swynehoo. The Warden of the Middle Marches makes a wise discourse of his proceedings since his entry into office and other things requiring answer of the King. Darneton, 20 March. Signed.
	In Sadler's hand, p. 1. Add. Endd.: 1544.
20 March.	394. Border Garrisons.
R. O.	Indenture witnessing receipt, 20 March 36 Hen. VIII., by Sir Ralph Sadleyr, high treasurer of the wars, from Thos. Jeffrey, of 5,000l., sent by the Privy Council for garrisons on the Borders and other affairs in the North. Signed: Per me Thomam Jefferey.
	Small paper, indented, p. 1. Sealed.
20 March.	395. Thomas Gower to Shrewsbury.
Add. MS. 32, 656, f. 220. B. M. Hamilton Papers. ii. No. 429 (1 and 2).	Upon Tuesday last (fn. n13) the laird of Cowdaraknowis, who has bought me of my taker, came home from Edinburgh to send me thither by the Council's command. He said that he had much ado to keep me from the Cardinal, whose servant my taker is, and that Sir George Dowglas offered 500l. for me. Seeing that he could not have me, Sir George said that I might as well pay l,000l. as one groat; and it is so indeed, for if worth a groat I am worth 1,000l.—the King paid. The laird was so good as to give me leave to come to Barwik and return to his house on Sunday, so that I may be at Edinburgh on Monday. (fn. n14) Suspects that his sending for to Edinburgh is because of the drunken railing of Robert Rowke, who is much favoured by the Cardinal. Rowke has said in presence of divers of the Marshe and Tevidall that the receiver of Barwik was the occasion of the death of all that were slain at the nunnery of Ekcles, insomuch that his taker dared not bring him through the Marshe, for fear of the friends of the slain, but brought him through Tevidaill with a good company of men, to Ridanburn, and then took his hand to return on Sunday next. Trusts to have his ransom paid by Palm Sunday. (fn. n15) Has received 100l. of Mr. Blonte for the repairs of the walls and bridge, a small sum considering the greatness of the breaks. The discharging of the pioneers, who were in wages to Thursday last, will hinder the works. If Shrewsbury will send him money to continue them in wages, this 100l. will go much further. Also desires warrant to take 10 cart horses in some of the King's parks, of those which drew the ordnance from Edinburgh; for all the cart horses were lost at this last unhappy journey, and no carriage is to be had nearer than Yorkshire. Pending his return from Scotland the foundations will be digged, and he leaves a clerk to pay the money, and the sons of the master mason and carpenter of this town to oversee the workmen. Barwike, 20 March. Signed.
	P.S. in his own hand. (fn. n16) —Begs favour, when any of the pledges are let home, for the preferment of young Mr. Arsken, who lies with Sir Nicholas Farfaxse in pledge for lord Arsken's eldest son. Will be ready to answer the King for so much as it shall be more than his own ransom. Is sued to help home John Carr of Farnyherst, but will first be his "own man," as he trusts to be shortly, unless Sir George Dowglasse oppose it.
	Pp. 4. Add. Endd.: 1544.
20 March.	396. Robert, Master of Erskine to Cassillis.
R. O.	I received [your lordship's] writing this 17th March, and am glad that the King has given you licence to return home. I have spoken with my lord my father for the copy of the writing which came to the Queen's grace here from the King's Majesty, but my father says that he never had it in keeping, and I could not desire it of her Grace without showing her why you desired it. You write that my brother is well and would have word from me. I sent his servant to him with a hawk, which my lord Warden would not suffer to pass; "quharfor I man pray [y]our ll. till advertiss him and pray him till be blythe." I spoke not with your "servant, the bearer" for whom you desire credence; for my servant whom I sent to Edinburgh for him could not find him. Other things I refer to our meeting. Commend me to the Warden, and desire him to send in the goshawk to my brother. Striveling castle, 20 March. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.
20 March.	397. The Scottish Prize in Flanders.
R. O.	Receipt by Thos. Wills, master gunner of the King's Scottish prize taken by Sir Robert Stafford, captain of the New Barke, from Sir Wm. Paget, chief secretary, of 8l. for charges of the same ship now arrested by the Emperor at Escluse in Flanders. Received, 20 March 1544, in presence of Thomas Chamberlein, governor of the Merchants Adventurers, and Blewe Mantell, one of the King's heralds. Signed with a mark, and also. T. Chambrelain : Wm. Hervy all's Blewmantell.
	In Chamberlain's hand, p. 1.