Henry VIII: October 1535, 21-25 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 9, August-December 1535. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1886.

Citation:

'Henry VIII: October 1535, 21-25', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 9, August-December 1535, ed. James Gairdner( London, 1886), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol9/pp218-231 [accessed 29 November 2024].

October 1535, 21-25



[21 Oct.] R. O.	650. Sir William Poulet to Cromwell.
	On my reporting to the King your intention to come to his Grace at Easthampstead, he ordered me to say that if any causes required haste, you should repair to him at Easthampstead, where your lodging should be made. If not, you had better come to Windsor. Basing, Thursday morning.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Sealed. Endd.
21 Oct. R. O.	651. Thomas Legh to [Cromwell].
	I have received your letters the 17th inst., and I find you think that in my last "I went partly about" to excuse enormities and abuses unjustly laid to my charge. I had no object except to signify the truth, and to show that the charge committed to me by the King is substantially executed. It would be folly in me to excuse myself if my actions did not correspond; and though a man is given to sensual appetites I am not addicted to such notable sensualities and abuses as you are informed. I believe that you wrote out of your love and zeal to me on the subject, and that your admonition was for my welfare. I desire that such as have slandered me may justify it before you at my return. Whereas you speak of certain things, as, first, my velvet gown as not fit for me to wear, I am content to leave it. I know right well, in some things I can wear no worse. I have worn none since I came from London, "but one that Richmond's wife bought for me of Garter's son immediately after his death, fur and all for 4l.; and because it was light and warm I took it with me." Secondly, wherein you desire me to discharge my servant and horse, I have no servant but what I had these six years, except John Akers, whom I have taken of late to be my clerk, and this bearer, Mr. Lampelew's sister's son, who bought himself a coat of the colour of your livery at his own cost, unknown to me, at St. Alban's, and desired to hear me company till the term began. Thirdly, whereas you wish me to follow my injunctions, I have done so without any altention and I have not been against them who for lack of age have been discharged of their habit, but permitted them to dwell where that will, within the abbey or without, "so that the abbey or monastery hath not been charged by me to keep them, nor that they should under that colour keep them as monks still." I wish [to know what I shall do with them who are above 24 years and wish to leave their vows, as in Deny Abbey. It would be right that we visitors should observe a uniformity in these and other matters. As my brother buried his wife of late, and is not very expert in the world, I willed him to ride with me to see the countries and manners of men, and for no other cause; and as I did not dare to ask you to take him into your service, I have sent him for a time to my lord of Chester. The abbot of West Dereham, in the diocese of Norwich, is dead. (fn. 1) I wish to know your pleasure for his successor. Cambridge, 21 Oct. Signed.
	Pp. 4.
R. O.	652. [Richard] Bowyer to [Cromwell.]
	I beg you will remember the signature of my bill for Bothum. The monastery of Westderham is void by death. Is it your pleasure my lord of Welbeck shall proceed to a new election, and that I shall continue, as before, registrar to that Order with fee of 40s. ? As the King is Supreme Head, and nominates all bishops, I think he ought to nominate all abbots and priors, exempt and non-exempt, and translate them when necessary. It would be enough for the ordinances to restore them and put them in possession. I think also where bishops and abbots have patronage of benefices and give the next advowson, this privilege should be reserved to the King. For this purpose an office should be established that no man have two promotions, nor two men entitled to one promotion, with the exception to plurality according to the statute. If this office should be erected, would be glad to be its registrar. I beg you will write to the prior of the Trinity, York, for a lease to be made to me of Heedley manor, with the hospital of St. Nicholas, at the rent now assessed in the King's books; also that you will write to your commissary to see the same lease sealed at your visitation. A prebend in York called Fridaythorpe is void by Shorton's death.
	Hol., pp. 2.
	653. The Convent of Worcester Priory to [Cromwell.]
	We perceive that you are informed that our brother Thomas Sudbury, now cellarer, is a dilapidator of our monastery, and does not regard its profits. You desire that he should be expelled, and our brother Fordam he admitted in his place. No men know better the providence, learning, and good husbandry of the said two persons than we do, and we trust you will not be offended if we disclose to you our conscience. We consider that Sudbury has been a good husband to the profit of the monastery, and has substantially repaired its manors, &c. He has a frame ready to be set up in the "brewerne" of the monastery, which was decayed in the time when Fordam was cellarer. The vault of the infirmary fell down suddenly, we conjecture, through an earthquake which shook not only that but other ruinous parts of the house. This Michaelmas Sudbury would have gladly surrendered his office but for the entreaties of his brethren. Fordam is a troublesome person, and has put our house to great expense and vexation. Our master prior, John Lawherne, sub-prior, and Sudbury have paid Fordam's debts to the amount of 280l., as will be seen by bills under his own hands. He has also, under the name of the monastery, borrowed money and converted it to his own use, as of one Gardoner, of Barnet, and John Knottysforde, and Walker, of Tewkesbury, now dwelling in London. For this Walker arrested our prior, being in London at the convocation. He is infected with the pox that no man may abide him. What with physick for his disease, prowling to his friends, and other misuses, we think he will be the ruin of our house.
	Signed: Johannes Lawerne, sub-prior: Will'mus Lemster: Humfridus Webley, Sacrista et in Sacra Theologia bacalarius: Will'mus Hanbury, Master of the Chapell: Joh'es Multon, chanter: dompnus Thomas Blockeley: dan William Bordysley: Thomas Sturbryge (?): Thomas Wlstane, tercius prior: Thomas Grymley: Will'mus Benett: Rogerus Balenall, subsacrista: Thomas Oswalds: Joh'es Hardwyke: Robartus Gregory: John More: Will'mus Hedynton, Elemosinris (sic): Humfridus Grafton, pittensarius: Rogerus Stanford, Cumbarius (?) et in Sacra Theologia bachalarius: Rogerus Bewdeley, capelanus: Edmundus Ledbury, hostelarius: Joh'es Crowlle: Nicholaus Sihypystun, subscelararius: Johannes Newnam: Henricus Hymmulton: Thomas Bredwas, succentor: Joh'es Cropthorne.
	Pp. 2.
21 Oct. R. O.	654. Thomas Sudburi, Cellarer, to Cromwell.
	I perceive by the letters I received from you that you are informed I let farms and other holdings at my pleasure, without the consent of Master Doctor, to whom the governance of this monastery is committed. I have done nothing of the kind since my master, the prior, was in trouble, though I did so before, as was the custom of my predecessors. Worcester priory, 21 Oct.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary.
21 Oct. R. O.	655. Sir Nich. Wadham to Cromwell.
	When you were at my Lord Chief Justice at Redlynch, you spake a merry word to me sitting at dinner, "that if I could be contented to occupy forth my office of the sheriffwicks of Somerset and Dorset," whereunto I answered no; but now I beg that I may continue in the office another year. Otherwise my undersheriff tells me I shall lose a great part of my advantage, as many are reprieved to the next assizes. My son, John Wadham, would have waited upon you but his horseman fell suddenly sick, and until the danger be known I have counselled him not to approach you. Meryfelde, 21 Oct. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
21 Oct. R. O.	656. Lady Margery Sandys to Cromwell.
	I write to you of the prior of Worcester, Dan Wm. More, who remains in Gloucester at the King's pleasure and yours. I beg the matter may be examined, for he is a true monk to God and the King, and his accuser, Dr. Nekam, is very well known. He was elected to his room by the whole convent and the gift of the bishop of Winchester, Dr. Fox, without giving a penny for his promotion. He will be glad to give you in ready money as much as any other man will give, and therefore my trust is you will be good to him. At the Vine, 21 Oct. 27 Hen. VIII. Signed.
	Pp. 2. Add. Endd.
21 Oct. R. O.	657. John Husee to Lord Lisle.
	Sends by the bearer, Jas. Roberts, six pieces of ulrons, which he has got with much ado as none are to be had for money, price 10s. 6d. the piece. Is bound for the amount. If he had done no more than others Lisle wrote to, his Lordship would have been disappointed. Jas. Roberts chose them himself, and there are scarcely so many more to be had in London. It hath stayed me two days the seeking of the same. London, 21 Oct.
	There is not one poldavy to be had for money.
	Hol., p. 1. Add. Endd.
21 Oct. Vit. B. xiv. 148. B.M.	658. Sir Gregory Casale to Cromwell.
	"Molto ............................. Ancora che non o ........................ per non mancare ................... l'imperatore ancora che h .............. de volere mandare nova armata ......... desarmare del tutto, et ha remandato ............. dicono questo essere causato de Andrea Doria ........... retornare per questi tempi in Affrica, et maxime .......... volta partito con l'armata che haveva destinata ............ sa, la fortuna lo rebuto in Scicilia: l'imperatore .......... apresso de lui 2,000 lanzichinecchi, et 3,000 Spagno [li] ......... se resoluto volere desarmare per non spendere, et .............. che gli dole de quello che ha speso, et come sara ............. Scicilia vole andare a revedere tutti li porti et ............ Puglia, et farle fortificare per essere sicuro, ............. non lo possa offendere, havendo a tornare in Aff[rica] ............. nira in Napoli, et de li a Roma, dove il papa ........ male se non se ajuta con Francesi, et che non faccia ........... fece papa Clemente, in Bologna al imperatore. Il qu ........... che volendo l'imperatore da lui molte cose exorbitante .......... dava molto imperiosamente. Papa Clemente fece ................ imperatore como la Maesta Christianissima haveva mandato li ................ a recercarlo de parentato, et amicitia con offerir ................ conditione, quando l'imperatore intese questo se tolse q ................ mande, et gli parse assai potere octenere de ................. lega deffensiva de Italia cosa de poco m[omento] ................................................ demora che l'Imperatore fara ......................... una ancora che l'Imperatore ........................ [S]ede Appostolica, non dimeno commo ....................... maxime in Roma, sara tanto stimulato ..................... [Ita]liani, quali hanno differentia con la Sede Appostolica ................ quelli, alli quali la Sede Appostolica ha occupato li stati loro, ................. ponere al Imperatore, che essendo remessi da lui in casa saranno [al Imperato]re fideli servitori, offeriranno il stato, la vita, et danari [et] per questa via farlo sicuro signore d'Italia, talche faranno per [ogn]i modo intrare l'Imperatore in questo ballo.
	" ... occorre ancora doe belle stravagantie. L'una sie chel papa ........... de animo de non volere mai comportare che il duca de Urbino [ott]enga Camerino, et il duca de Urbino vole piu presto morire [che] lassarlo. L'lmperatore fa grandissimo conto del duca de Urbino, et [sem]pre l'ha favorito et favorisce, et a esso imperatore importa molto [ha]verlo per amico in Italia. L'altra sie che e cosa certa, che l'imperatore [fa]ra ch'el papa entri in la lega deffensiva de Italia, et in ... persuadera il papa, ab honesto, dicendo 'Havendo io a fare [im]presa contra il Turcho, et contra li Mori, non e honesto che tu .......... a per beneficio de questa santa impresa pigli la protectione ............. de assigurarme che essendo io a ditta impresa, et volendo il [Re de] Francia disturbarla con venire in Italia, che tu me deffende ........... [in]scieme con li altri principi Italiani. Pero e necessario che tu ............... in questa liga deffensiva con loro.' Hora haveti a saper, che il .............. to volere piu presto morire, che lassare la sua neutralita, et lo dice liberar questa domanda e co one de dolersi de lui, et sua in Roma S^re si po dire terre de Collonesi, et del paese del D[uca] parte fino in Peroscia, per certo io vedo questo pap mine si che staremmo a vedere la festa. Rengratio D[io] bisogno de lui, et che non ha cosa alcuna delle nostre in .................
	"Io ho havnto lettere de M. Francisco, mio fratello, quale me che fu in corte parlo con il cardinale de Parisi, et con il C[ardinale] della forma ch'io gli havevo dato in commissione, secondo ......... a V. S. et che tutti doi loro lo sconfortorno a parlare ............ con il papa dicendo che il papa e tanto alterato, che non ........ ne alcuno, et che queste ragioni erano di poco mom[ento] .......... dice que molti Cardinali gli dissero per cosa certa, che ...... il papa fusse in Roma procederia contra il Re nostro .................. nem. Non dimeno subbito che fu a Roma il papa .................. Francesco l'ando a trovar secondo la com missione ch'i .......... imposta, et venne a dirli il tutto, et dice che il pap[a] .......... buona audientia, et che stette in gran consideratione ............... ando molto interrogando sopra quelle ragione che le ............. da parte mia, dice bene che il papa intro a fare ................. et lamenti, ma che alla fine mustro de remanere ................ fatto. Et prego ditto M. Francesco che gli volesse lass [ar] ................ lettera di V. S. per poterla molto bene considerare ............... olta sopra cio. Domandogli se ........... perche io non andavo, talche mu ...................... ad hora non ha fatto cosa alcuna .......................contra la Maesta de Re, talche quelli Cardinali che ..................... uti sono remasti scornati. Mio fratello me ha scritto ........ to quello di momento che intendera, et che succedera che me ne ra. Me avisa commo l'imperatore e venuto a Messina, el deli presto ............. ra in Calabria. Et che ha alicentiato tutti li lanzichinecchi, in [Ita] lia lassa 1,500 Spagnoli, il resto menara con lui, non venira pri[ma] che a Natale in Napoli, ma dice che in Napoli non se vole ferma[re] niente, ma che subbito venira a Roma, dove stara um-mese con [il] papa, et poi andara a Genova per preparare la impresa nova de [A]ffrica, dove e Barbarossa signore de Algieri, et de molti altri lochi, … se retrova 50 vele, et da gran disturbo in la rivera de Spa[gn]a. La cosa che io scrissi a V. S. de Minorica fu verissima.
	"[Il Go]vernatore di questa terra sie il vescovo Sipontino, nepote che fu del [cardina]le de Monte, et il Papa ne fa un grandissimo conto, et gli da gran .............. io lo conforto a stare apresso il papa alla venuta di questo Imperatore ........... che mantenghi il papa in proposito de non intrare in lega alcuna con [l'] imperatore.
	"Ditto vescovo per la buona memoria de suo zio mustre ...................... re molto servitore della Maesta del Re. Il ditto vescovo fa [gran] lamento che il papa mantenera il proposito de non intrare in lega [prima di p]onere l'accordo con il Re de Francia, quale accordo il papa ......... certo de poterlo octenere, et spera che il re de Fran[cia] ......... acordare forsi de meno de quello che ha domandato peril pas (a leaf lost ?) Io non so anda ..................... commesso a Gurone .................. volunta del Re circa ...................... che io aspetta la resposta, quale ................ di V. S., alla quale humilmente me racoma[ndo]."
	21 Oct. 1535. Signed.
	P.S.—"I .................................... fratello de xvi. del ....................... che la lettera che me ha scri[tta] ............... rita pontificia, mustra che habbia ............. il cardinale Ghinuccio, et con Simonetta, havera ................. quelle parole Nemini mortalium sit fattorum suorum .............. ratio, ma mio fratello, quale era bene advertito ................... cosa dice haverli resposto, che questo a questo, ne ................. ne alcun Cardinale pensino, che il Re sia mai per ................ obedientia, ne conto di se per obligo, ma quello che .......... ha scritto e stato solo per mustrare che queste ............. chimere che trovano, et predicano questi impe[riali sono] false fitione. A questi giorni ditti imperiali ha[nno fatto] stampare un opera, de morte Rofensis et Mo[ri, le] piu gran chimere del mondo, da movere a pieta ........ Et vanno drieto a queste sue baglie."
	Mutilated. Add. Endd.
21 Oct. Nero, B. vii. 103. B. M.	659. Bernardin Sandro to Starkey.
	Received your letter yesterday on returning from Padua. Has written to Jonys, as you advised, and il Signore (Pole) bade. I hope you will soon have him there. There has been a flood in Venice, and your books were in the basement of M. Edmondo's (Harvel's) house, but, fortunately, I had placed them on a chest, so that they were not injured. Today or tomorrow will remove them to M. Donato's house, where I hope we shall stay for the winter. We have a fine house on the grand canal, between the house of Foscari and the ferry of St. Barnabas. M. Edmondo has not yet returned from Sicily. If he had stayed here, he would probably have taken a better house. His present house is so small and cold and foul that it drove away il Signore, because, since you went away, he left that of St. Boldo, and took this. Within a fortnight Basil will be finished. If you wish, I will keep my copy for you, which is "di bella carta fabriana grande." M. Aloisio Priuli wished to have it, but I wanted to keep it for myself. Being in need of money, I offer it to you, that so I may have the use of it. I spoke to the parent of Messer Jaques at Padua about your money, but he said he had heard nothing from him or his friends for more than a year, and was ashamed of his villainous behaviour towards you. Many others besides you have been taken in by him. He has promised to write to him by the first messenger and try to make him acknowledge his error. M. Cortino left Padua for France eight days ago, and came to take leave of il Signore. The Pope has returned to Rome, and the cardinal Contarini with him, whose brother Federico has just died. The Pope has given the Cardinal 200 cr. a month for the provision of himself and his family, with lodgings in the palace, till he can give him a larger revenue. The Emperor has not yet left Sicily, but is expected at Naples by Christmas. It was hoped he would come sooner, and all the lords of Italy were ready to go and meet him; but now they remain at home raising money, a sign of future war. Has written to Jonys what you entrusted to me, and Lylio has sent him his sister's letters. Belson and Matthio recommend themselves to you. Venice, 21 Oct. 1535.
	Hol. Ital., p., 1. Add.
21 Oct. Add. MS., 8,715, f. 129 b. B. M.	660. Bishop of Faenza to Mons. Ambrogio.
	Particulars about the illness of Francis I. Hears, by letters from England, that the King has made an ordinance that church goods shall come to the Exchequer, reserving only enough for the present holders to live. Digiun.
	Ital., p. 1. Copy headed: Al Signor M. Ambrogio. Da Digiun, 21 detto (October).
22 Oct. R. O.	661.John ap Rice to Cromwell.
	I have sent you an abridgment of the comperts of the places we have visited since we came from London. We will obey your pleasure lately notified for not expelling any above the age of 20; but we have dismissed many above that age already. We are now at Cambridge, where I observed in the heads great pertinacity to their old blindness. If they were gradually removed, learning would flourish here, as the younger sort be of much towardness. Of the old sort are Mr. Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Metcalf, Dr. Blyth, master of this college, Dr. Harrison, Dr. Buckmaster. When we were late' at Walden, the abbot, a man of good learning, as I examined him alone, showed mo secretly "upon stipulation of silence, but unto you as no judge," that he had secretly contracted marriage, because, though he might not do it by the laws of men, he might do it lawfully by the laws of God for avoiding of more inconvenience. He trusts you will not do anything prejudicial to him, but that, as many good men who dare not speak would be glad to have that remedy, you might be induced to help them. Rather than he should live in a monastery contra conscientiam he would yield it to you. There are now only seven persons left, and they very old; he had so persuaded the rest in his lecture, which he kept daily among them, that there was no sanctity in monkery. You might soon have the house clean abandoned if you would. You may see by the comperts of that house how all live that profess chastity, for this house was of as good name as other whereof we have no comperts, and here they declared the truth, because their master always exhorted them to do so. But in other houses they did not. At St. Alban's we found little, although there were much to be found. The master of the Savoy had need be looked upon by you, for he observes not the King's ordinances. It were well to suppress the nunnery of Sapwell, of the abbot of St. Alban's foundation, as you may see by the comperts. Cambridge, 22 Oct.
	Hol, pp. 2. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
22 Oct. R. O.	662. Sir Nicholas Carew to Cromwell.
	I and the other Commissioners have taken certificates of the yearly values of benefices within our division, whereof the auditor, Edw. Chamber, has engrossed a book in paper, which I send. I think it should have been in parchment. Shall it be done anew, in rolls or otherwise ? Let me know if you be at any point with Warram for Halyng. Pardon me that I have not seen you since your being at Stepney. I was informed you had gone to the Court eight days ago. At my house, 22 Oct.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
22 Oct. R. O.	663. W. Lord Sandys to Cromwell.
	The King and Queen came to my poor house on Friday the 15th of this month, and continued there till Tuesday. I expected to have seen you, which would have been a great comfort to me and my poor wife. Please to remember that on behalf of my friend, John Awdelett, of Abingdon, you were pleased to befriend him; but I hear from him that the matter at variance betwixt the abbot and him has not been committed, as you promised, to be decided by certain indifferent persons. The Vine, 22 Oct. 27 Hen. VIII. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Mr. Secretary.
22 Oct. Fuller, Hist. Univ. of Camb., 216. Cooper's Annals of Cambridge, I. 376.	664. Cambridge.
	Injunctions by Dr. Thos. Leigh, Cromwell's vicar general, for the University of Cambridge, given 22 Oct. 1535.
	1. That all students or scholars are to observe the statutes and customs of the University and colleges, where not repugnant to the King's or these injunctions. 2. That no master or fellow shall sell fellowships or take money for reception of scholars. 3. That all factions shall cease, and college elections be on the merits of the candidates. 4. That the vice-chancellor and proctors, and the heads of houses, shall send to Cromwell their charters, statutes, bulls, &c., with a rental and inventory. 5. That the University shall maintain a lecture in Greek or Hebrew. 6. That all heads of houses, scholars, and students shall be present at a mass in St. Mary's church for the souls of the founders, and for the happy state of the King and Queen Anne. 7. That every provost, &c. shall provide a copy of these and the King's injunctions, and cause them to be read monthly to the scholars.
	Lat.
22 Oct. Vienna Archives.	665. Charles V. to [Chapuys].
	Received at Palermo his letter of 11 Aug., and since then, those of 25 Aug. and 6 Sept., notifying the receipt of the Emperor's from Goleta. Supposes he has since received those from Tunis and Trepana. Recapitulates their contents. Andrew Doria was not able to sail on account of adverse winds. Has determined to postpone the expedition on account of the time of year, and Doria has been sent to guard Goleta and the frontiers, and attack the ships which have remained with Barbarossa, who has taken Maho in Minorca, and is now at sea plundering. Supposes he has heard from the queen of Hungary about the interview between the two Queens. Touching the proposals of Dr. Adam, Ferdinand and the Emperor will overlook what is past, but he must not practise to their prejudice in Germany.
	As to the pressure put upon Chapuys to know the Emperor's decision, and also upon the Sieur de Likerke by the English ambassador, has determined to delay answering during his voyage to Tunis. The matter must be kept on foot until Chapuys has communicated with the Pope, and seen what his Holiness will do touching England, and also how the French king will behave and what he will do as to the overtures made by the Admiral to the Queen Dowager of Hungary, at the said interview of which the Sieur de Vely has also spoken.
	As long as the king of England remains in his present abominable condition with his concubine, and holds the divorce valid and the Princess not his heir, refusing to submit to the Council, it is impossible with honour and a good conscience to treat with him. Mecina, 22 Oct. 1535.
	Fr., from a modern copy, pp. 3.
23 Oct. Add. Ch. 12827. B.M.	666. Cambridge University.
	Notarial attestation by John Rheseus, LL.B., principal registrar of the King in ecclesiastical causes, of the oath taken by Thos. Cromwell, Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, and the University, acknowledging the King as Supreme Head of the Church. In Domo congregationis nostræ, 23 Oct. 1535, 27 Hen. VIII.
	Signed: Joannes Crayford, vice-cancellarius; per me Nicolaum Metcalf; Johannes Watson, theologie professor; Joannes Edmondes; Gulielmus Bukmastre, and 16 others. Seal cut off.
	Lat. Vellum. Endd.
	2. Modern copies in Harl. 7, 033 f. 158, and 7,041 f. 193.
R. O.	667. Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, to Cromwell.
	Express their gratitude to Cromwell for getting their tenths remitted, and their satisfaction in having him for their governor. If they fail to gain their cause, which has now been running on for six years, they will suffer great loss and have to reduce the number of their scholars.
	Lat., pp. 2. Add.: Amplissimo viro, Magistro Thomæ Crumwello, Regio Secretario, Cantabrigiensis Academiæ Cancellario. Endd.
[23 Oct.] Cleop., E. iv. 127. B. M. Wright's Suppression of the Monasteries, 75.	668. Richard Layton to Cromwell.
	On Friday, 22 October, I rode back to take an inventory of Fowlstone and thence went to Langden, where I sent Bartlett, your servant, with my servants to circumcept the abbey and keep all starting holes. I went alone to the abbot's lodging "joining upon the fields and wood even like a cony clapper full of starting holes," and was a good space knocking at the door. I found a short pole axe and dashed the door in pieces, and went about the house, with the pole axe, for the abbot is a "dangerous desperate knave, and hardy." Finally the abbot's whore, alias his gentlewoman, "bestirred her stumps towards her starting holes," where Bartlett took "the tender damoisel." After examination, sent her to Dover to the mayor to set in some cage or prison for eight days. I brought holy father abbot to Canterbury, and here in Christchurch will leave him in prison. Your servant, John Antonie, and his men marvelled what fellow I was. I found her apparel in the abbot's coffer. By this it shall appear to all, that ye do not deprive or visit but on substantial grounds. This morning I ride to visit the Archbishop and "now when I have visite his see, this night I will be at Feversham abbey." Scribbled this Saturday.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Thos. Cromwell, chief secretary. Endd.
[23 Oct.] R. O.	669. Richard Layton to Cromwell.
	This Saturday I came to Christchurch, Canterbury, where one of my servants called me up suddenly, else I had been burnt in my bed. The great dining chamber, called the King's lodging, where the bishop of Winchester lay before I came, took fire by some firebrand or snuff of a candle setting the rushes on fire. My servants were nearly choked in their beds. After I had found a back door I called up the house, and sent to the town for help; but before water came the great lodging was past recovery. Only three chambers were burnt, called the new or the King's lodging. The gable ends of the house, made of strong brick, kept the fire from the houses adjoining. As soon as I had set men to quench the fire, I went into the church, and set four monks with bandogs to keep the shrine, and put the sexton in the vestry to keep the jewels, appointing monks in every quarter of the church with candles. I sent also for the abbot of St. Augustine's to be in readiness to take down the shrine, and send the jewels into St. Augustine's. If I had not taken this order, harm would have been done. Such bedding as was cast into the cloister was embezzled by poor folks, who came rather to spoil than to help.
	The prior of Dover and his monks are as bad as others. Sodomites there is none, for they have no lack of women. The abbot of Langden is worse than all the rest, the drunkenest knave living. His canons are as bad as he, without a spark of virtue. The abbot made his chaplain take a woman and brought her up to his own chamber, and made his chaplain's bed in the inner chamber, and made him go to bed with her. The house is in utter decay, and will shortly tumble down. You must depose him at once, and take an inventory of the goods. I have pronounced him perjured, reserving the punishment to you. Langden is three miles from Dover. There is another priory, called Fowlstone, 10 or 12 miles from Canterbury, wherein is a prior and a sick monk. It is in the gift of my lord of Canterbury. Lord Glynton (Clinton) pretends to be the founder, but the King is surely the founder. The parish church belongs to the priory, and with the glebe land is its whole revenue, which amounts to 70l., of which the vicar has 10l. The benefice is 40l. and 20l. of glebe. The priory was first a nunnery, then a parsonage with a vicar; but when the parson died the archbishop, who was a Black Monk, turned it into a priory. The house is in utter decay. It consists of one hall, one chamber, a kitchen, and a little parlour under ground, not meet for a monk. The prior's monk maximus sodomita; the prior, an apostate and a runagate. He should be sent home and punished for his apostacy, and his monk returned to Canterbury. He has a few "catel," but no household stuff. The barns are well filled with corn. Send word whether I shall depose him, and turn the priory into a parsonage with a vicar, and make the King patron, and give it me for a parsonage. I am informed the prior has much money.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: Chief Secretary. Endd.
23 Oct. Cleop. E. iv. 53. B. M. Wright's Suppression of the Monasteries, 80.	670. William Prior of Bridlington to Cromwell.
	Your mastership, by your last letters, advised me to recognize the King to be our patron and founder, as nothing in our original grant to us by Sir Gilbert de Gaunte, cousin to our original founder, appeared to the contrary; or else appear before your Mastership and other of his Grace's Council on 31 Oct.
	We have been without interruption in this behalf nigh 200 years, and I beg we may be now. As I cannot, because of infirmity, appear before you, I beg credence for the bearer, my brother, of whom you shall receive a token. Monastery of Bridlington, 23 Oct.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: To, &c., Thos. Cromwell, Secretary to the King's highness. Endd.
23 Oct. R. O.	671. Dame Mary Capell to Cromwell.
	Her annuity of 40 marks, granted by Henry VII. and confirmed by the King, is in arrear for two and a half years ended at Michaelmas. Begs Cromwell's assistance to obtain it, and will give him 20l. to buy a hobby. Rayne, 23 Oct. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.
23 Oct. R. O. St. P. v. 7.	672. The Bishop of Aberdeen to Cromwell. (fn. 2)
	Writes to express his sense of the kindness shown by the English ambassador to him and his colleagues. Have informed their master of the King's good will by the abbot of Kinlose, James's secretary, of whose inclination to peace, Cromwell may remind the King, the writer spoke to his Highness on St. George's Day. Has advised him to speak to the King at this time. Desires to be commended to the duke of Norfolk, the Chancellor, and others. Dijon, 23 Oct. Signed.
	Add.
23 Oct. Nero, B. vi. 157. B. M.	673. G. Lily to Starkey.
	Had not intended to write to him till he re-read his letter, and his expression of a desire to hear from him. Has returned to his studies. Servants are scarce, and they are obliged to pay attention to their master's (fn. 3) wishes, not their own. Spends what time he can spare from his service in study, but has no leisure. Are settled at Venice as of old. Their master, as Starkey knows, prefers this air to that of Padua. Was wearied at Padua by having to accompany his master about out of doors, as is the custom there. Here one rower relieves us of all the trouble. Excuses himself for not writing to Joannus (Jones). Does not understand that his (Lily's) sister is thinking of marriage. Wrote to Starkey a letter of congratulation on the recovery of his patron's brother. (fn. 4) Wishes to know if it was delivered, and asks for news of the said person's son, his patron's nephew. Asks him to salute his old friend Sworder.
	Marcus Fortia of Avignon has arrived at Padua, to study here with Lazarus. "Eum mihi vix dum adire et coll........ tamen..... justum in eo consalutando officium meum, et de rebus suis communicandi facultatem omnem eriperent; hoc tamen scias velim, eum Lazar ... propter ingenium ejus et suavissimos mores summis laudibus in coelum efferre." Cortinus is returning to France. Asks for letters. Has determined to consult Walker. Venice, 10 kal. Nov.
	Hol., Lat., mutilated, pp. 2. Add. Londini.
23 Oct. Granvelle, Papiers d'Etat, ii. 387.	674. Charles V. to his Ambassador In France.
	Had a conversation lately with the French ambassador, who said he had no charge concerning peace. Desired him, nevertheless, to talk to Granvelle about it, that Francis might see that the Emperor did not wish to rest content with general words. Granvelle proposed again to the said ambassador the marriage of the princess of England with Mons. d'Angolesmes, saying that if Francis had listened to the proposal when it was first made they would have done the king of England much good, both as regards his conscience and his honor, and the evils which every one expected would have been avoided; moreover, if he were willing to listen to the proposal now, the matter could still be arranged, for the great benefit of the king of England and his kingdom, and to prevent further evil, both as regards the Faith and the Church. Francis should consider that if Charles did not desire the greatness of his children, and had not confidence in establishing a good peace, he would have nothing to do with such a match. It is true that the Princess is not in the Emperor's power, but if they were united the marriage would be feasible. One difficulty, the Ambassador alleged, was that when a marriage between the Princess and one of the children of France was heretofore proposed, it was feared that it might revive the old quarrels between the kingdoms; but our countries and France could be united so as to prevent such contentions for ever; and, besides, the king of France had already spoken of such a marriage, which was ill-taken in England, but by this means it would be more feasible. The ambassador happening to speak of the marriage of the Dauphin (for whom the English marriage was formerly proposed) with our niece of Portugal, he was answered that if the Dauphin were to marry her by this means we should be more obliged to preserve the said kingdom of England, and that our good-will to our relatives must be considered, as shown in our marrying the two princesses of Denmark at great expense, notwithstanding that their father Christiern behaved so badly to us. Granvelle also offered that the Emperor would give one of the French king's sons 40,000 or 50,000 cr. annually from Milan if the King would leave the Duke in peace.
	Thanks the Ambassador for his information touching the coming of Melancthon to France, the considerations touching the Council, the fear the king of England has of it, and the practises in Germany to hinder it.
	As to the marriage of the Scotch king with the daughter of Vendosme, since the thing is done it must be held good. That King has written to say that though he marries in France, he will always remain in good friendship with us. The Ambassador is to keep this secret. * * * *
	Has intentionally delayed to answer the French ambassador, and does not mean to do so until he has communicated with the Pope, and heard what he intends to do concerning England, and also whether the French king will do what has been mentioned. Cannot, of course, treat with the king will England if he intends to live with his concubine, and hold the divorce valid, and therefore the Princess not to be his heir, without submitting to the Council.
	Complains of the conduct of the Sieur de Vely, the French ambassador, during the voyage to Tunis, and in the camp before Goletta. He has published false news in England. He was well provided for, and the English ambassador, who was always with him, has expressed his thanks. Messina, 23 Oct. 1535. Fr.
23 Oct. Add. MS. 8,715, f. 130. B. M.	675. Bishop of Faenza to Mons. Ambrogio.
	Hears now that the difficulty about the Scotch marriage is that as Francis (questa maesta) promised to give the bride 15,000 a year beside the dowry, which is said to be 200,000 francs, "ben che M. di Vandomo vi corra," the Scotch king (quel Re) wishes an assignment of this sum to be made with the consent of Parliament and the Royal Chamber. The King gives him to understand that he does not mean to fail in his promise, but will not he bound to this condition. The ambassadors have written about it to their master, and are waiting for an answer.
	Ital., pp. 2. Modern copy. Headed: Al medesimo alli 23 detto [Oct.] da Digiun.
24 Oct. R. O.	676. Stephen Bishop of Winchester to Cromwell.
	After a good passage, and the loss today of my servant Wodal by the great sickness, wherewith he was infected at his late being in London longer than I would he should, tomorrow I leave for the French court. My journey, though slow, is, I fear me, "more speedy than my horse, by reason of their travail on the seas, will maintain." The bailly of Troyes left me word to make no haste. If you think greater speed necessary, I shall use the post. I write you this that you may explain to the King the delay in my journey, which, in the "strange watery weather" in France, is more cumbrous than wont. Calays, 24 Oct. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Chief Secretary. Endd.
24 Oct. R. O.	677. John Abbot of Tewkesbury to Cromwell.
	I thank you for your goodness at my preferment, and your loving commendations to the King when he was at Tewkesbury, as yet undeserved of me. I had trusted to have provided a gelding for you, and I now send you one, with 5l. to buy you a saddle. Whereas I have heretofore been slack in my duty, I trust henceforth I shall better recompence your deserts. Teoxbury, 24 Oct. Signed.
	P. 1. Add.: Secretary.
24 Oct. R. O.	678. Ric. Vowel, prior of Walsingham, to Cromwell.
	At my latest suit to you for valuation of the oblations in Our Lady's chapel, you desired me to make suit to you again when the certificate of the commissioners was brought in. I beg credit for Rob. Towneshend, to whom I have made known my mind more fully than I can write. Without your aid our house shall never be able to bear the charges. 24 Oct.
	Hol., P. 1. Add.: Secretary.
24 Oct. R. O.	679. Ric. Blownt to Lady Lisle.
	On my arrival at Bruges I went with John Smytt to the goldsmith with your jewel. He demands three weeks to make it, and 4 angels 12 styvers for the work. I have therefore deferred breaking it till I hear from you. I have delivered him 7 cr. towards it, "weronne 4 lyis in cownterpasse with your juyll," which cownterpasse I have delivered to John Smytt, and your 3 pearls. I enclose a pattern of the goldsmith's doing, "and the xx. wyth spottes be the plassys wer the dyamondes shullde stonde." Bruges, 24 Oct.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.
24 Oct. Add. MS. 8,715, f. 130 b. B. M.	680. Bishop of Faenza to M. Ambrogio.
	It is more than a month since the Scotch ambassadors have had the brief, which they said they would send to their King. Yesterday they gave him to understand that they had not sent it, having had no opportunity, but would send it with their letters if he approved, but that as the sea was not safe this time of year, they send their letters by England, by which way the brief might easily go wrong. Rather suspects that, perhaps, they would be pleased that it should not] come otherwise to their King, so as not to have to make the answer which is asked for, the King being friendly with England. Conjectures by the delay that they have written to their King, and this is in consequence of his answer. Answered that he must send it somehow to the King, but was sorry they had not told him this when he first gave it to them; that he would have sent it by a courier, as he was commissioned to do, in which he has failed through their fault.
	Will now find some other way of sending it.
	Ital., pp, 2. Modern copy. Headed: Al medesimo Sig. M. Ambrogio, da Digiun, 24 Ottobre.
24 Oct. Add. MS. 28, 588, f. 31. B. M.	681. Dr. Ortiz to the Empress.
	Wrote last on the 8th. The Imperial Ambassador in London wrote on the 25th Sept., that the Queen and Princess were in good health. On the 14th he had written that the Princess had been ill and was getting better, and that the governess of her household, la Ana's aunt, had concealed her illness for 12 days, so that he could not provide her with physicians. Neither the Ambassador nor his servant are allowed to visit her, which shows the Queen and Princess have special need of God's protection. The state of England is getting more and more disorderly. It is publicly said that mass is a great abuse; that Our Lord is not in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, and only was so when He consecrated it; that saying the Ave Maria is folly; and that Our Lady cannot help those who pray to her and invoke her aid, for she is only a woman like others. Blasphemous words are said of images. The rents of many churches are taken away, and it is said that they will take away images, shrines (templos), and the principal temporalities of the Church. Is much grieved at the danger to the lives of the Queen and Princess, and begs the Empress to have continual prayer made on their behalf. Sees no remedy if nuestro Señor does not take them out of the kingdom.
	Is much grieved to hear that the earl of Kildare has been deserted by his confederates, and persuaded by an uncle of his in England to go thither with a promise of pardon. Hostages have been left in his country, but that is of little importance. It is evident that he will be either martyred or perverted.
	In the Charterhouse of London, revelations have been had from a deceased person, showing the glorious crown of martyrdom obtained by the cardinal of Rochester and the other martyred saints in England. Cromwell, who procures everything that Anne wishes, has forbidden these revelations to be published. Rome, 24 Oct. 1535.
	Sp., pp. 5. Modern copy.
25 Oct. R. O.	682. John Husee to Lord Lisle.
	Repaired to Mr. Treasurer at Guildford to know what was done touching the lands, &c. of Leonard Mell, woolpacker. The finding was sent by me from Mr. Treasurer to Mr. Norres, the King then being at Easthampstead, to whom Norres delivered it. The King said though he was satisfied you should have it, he would know the value of the gift, which was determined to be five marks lands and five marks goods. Thinks it has been insinuated to the King that the gift was of higher value than it was. Therefore obtain the Comptroller's and Mr. Wingfield's certificate, specifying it to be as you stated. The Treasurer gave me a doe for you, which I send by Jas. Roberts, packed in canvas, desiring Mr. Porter may have a part. I also send you six ulrons; no poldavys to be had for money. Mr. Treasurer says that Jas. Hawksworth was with him touching the reparations of Porchester, and is appointed to be with him at Windsor on Friday, when he will inquire the King's pleasure about him. Your audit has been kept at Kingston Lisle. Hopes order has been taken for the 100l. for Mr. Saymour. It is hard trusting to his courtesy, for he hath small conscience. Clifford brought letters for me, but would not leave them with my hostess. As he took them away, does not know their contents. London, 25 Oct.
	Tell Mr. Porter that Harry Knyvet will have him in remembrance when Mr. Secretary comes to Court.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add. Endd.
	683. Hugh Bishop of Worcester to Cromwell.
R. O. Latimer's Rem., 370.	I was near "an axis" yesterday, which prevented me from coming for the draft you wot of. This day my lord of Westminster hath put unto me to preach there with him, else he would be disappointed. If you would send it to me by the bearer, I would apply my little wit "to they imitation of they same," and I will certify my lord of Canterbury, according to your advertisement.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: Secretary. Endd.