Henry VIII: April 1518, 1-15 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1864.

Citation:

'Henry VIII: April 1518, 1-15', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 2, 1515-1518, ed. J S Brewer( London, 1864), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol2/pp1252-1267 [accessed 5 November 2024].

April 1518



1 April. R.O.	4055. PACE to WOLSEY.
	This day the French Queen arrived, the Duke of Suffolk and my Lord Steward. The King has expressed his pleasure at Wolsey's being joined in commission with the legate elect, who is coming to England, and is satisfied with Pace's letters therein. The legate will not then be able to attempt anything against the King's laws. Dr. Clerk and Mr. More desire Wolsey to write to my Lord Steward that they may have their daily allowance of meat which has been granted by the King. "Here is such bribery that they be compelled to buy meat in the town for their servants, which is to them intolerable, and to the King's grace dishonorable." Is himself no better served. Abyndone, 1 April.
	P.S.—"Cornysche doth greatly laud and praise the child of your chapel sent hither, not only for his sure and cleanly singing, but also for his good and crafty descant, and doth in like manner extol Mr. Pygote for the teaching of him."
	Hol., pp.2. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
2 April. Vesp. C. I. 130. B. M.	4056. SPINELLY to HENRY VIII.
	Wrote last on the 23rd March from Valladolid. All the ambassadors being commanded to follow the King, who was at a place called San Martin, "scant of 200 barren houses, 10 leagues hence," the French and Venetian went to a village three leagues from the court, and Spinelly and the Pope's nuncio to another more nigh. The French ambassador being sent for, Spinelly wrote to Lord Chievres to know the cause, and received an answer, which he in- closes. Next day he came to this town of Arranda, and went to collation with the Lord Chancellor, "who showed me that their ambassador resident with the French King had plainly declared unto him, in the name of the Catholic King his master, that in case he should begin any business with your highness, the Catholico by all ways and means possible with his whole power will not only assist you, but invade him as his enemy, saying other requisite words for that purpose, and such intimation. Whereunto the French King said if he intended to enterprise anything against your highness, it was for to recover his own, showing no little marvel of such message and declaration, as more plainly he will charge his ambassador to say unto the Catholic King, remitting the full answer unto his ambassador; and demanding of him what news he had, he began to rehearse the great love that his master had towards the Catolico and also towards confederation, with many long circumstances that was between them; offering his power, and of all his friends, for the conserration of the King Catolico's honor and dominions, thinking likewise on his side he wol do the semblable for him, desiring D instantly that he should not meddle of the affairs that might succeed and grow between your highness and them. Whereupon, as the Chancellor hath affirmed to me that the King, more constant than ever he was, said unto the French ambassador that, having sufficiently by divers precedent communications declared unto him his resolute mind in the premises, he thought not well done to be importuned thereof, desiring him not only to desist hereafter of such pursuits, but also to persuade the King his master without aptente (attempting) anything against you his uncle, whom he is bound to help, and shall do it.
	"And the Chancellor said to the French ambassador that gladly he would know what his master do call his own; and if he speak for Tournay, it is evidently notory the King his predecessor and the present, by the peace and the treaty with your highness, have in meliori forma renounced for them and their successors unto all right and actions that they might pretend to have to the said Tournay. Whereunto the French ambassador, without any shame, affirmed their law and statutes of France do in no manner permit to any King the alienation of the Crown's goods, and that for the same reason the contract and promises was of none effect or value: and so the Chancellor concluded who so ever hath to do with them, he must make his reckoning upon his power, and not upon their treaties and promises. One day after me, that was the 30th of March, arrived here the King, and the next morning I went to visit the Lord Chievres, giving him great thanks for the matters shewed me the Chancellor, and for the King's wise answer unto the French ambassador; who said to me it was superabundant, because the King and his Council know manifestly your conservation and prosperity is their own, thinking your highness reciproce suppose and desire the semblable for the common weal of you both and of all Christendom, wherefore it is requisite and necessary to persevere together jointly and indissolubly, and so doing whatsoever the avaunting Frenchmen say, it is to be thought they wol be well advised before they come to any breach.
	"Moreover the Lord Chicvres saith that, notwithstanding the answer given unto the French ambassador, and the charge beareth Courteville, they have newly commanded unto their ambassador, in all communications with the French King concerning such affairs, to be plain unto him accordingly.
	"Item, that of all the inquisitions and diligences caused to be made for to come to the knowledge of the French preparations and minds against your highness, and by what means and way they intended to offend you, he could no further perceive, except that by some appearances the footmen entertained by the Duke of Gueldres was done with the French money, the which since the truce prorogued for one year betwixt the Catholico and him been dissolved and separated.
	"Item, that Richard de la Pulla was in France about Christmas last, and had money and promises enough at his return to Messe in Lorraine.
	"Item, that the King of Denmark had sent one into France showing much miscontentment of your highness, and how the French King was determined to send somebody to him again, for to better know what he wol say or what ground he hath to do you harm.
	"Item, that of late Bonivet, Admiral of France, upon the news they had of your highness preparing for the war, went in Normandy for to put some garrisons in certain towns standing to the sea side, and to command some ships to be new dressed, and, after the Lord Chievres' opinion, rather for a demonstration than for any effect, as one that wol in no wise believe the Frenchmen shall avance themselves to begin anything, knowing his master's mind. Howbeit he and every wise man affirm your highness hath done prudently to put you in aredines, whereby appeared your great power and good provision of money, certifying your grace the bruit and fame is marvellous, and that from it proceedeth a great part of the estimation and reputation wherein you be amongst all Christian princes.
	"As touching the King of Denmark, the Catholico hath written to him, putting in his remembrance how he hath married the niece of the Queen your spouse, and consequently the alliance of blood is between you both: and if he pretend to have any difference with your highness, the said Catholico, kinsman and friend to the parties, desire to be mediator and compositor thereof; and for this and many other considerations your highness may effectually perceive the benevolent and faithful mind the King and his Council hath toward your causes and affairs, whereof the Lord Chievres and the Chancellor, rulers of all, do deserve from your highness right special thanks. And, as the Chancellor saith, the Queen of Denmark is with child, and amongst the news lately come out of France the Lord Chievres is advertised that division in Council and in the King's presence of the Catholico's demeanor in the business of Tournay. The Duke of Bourbon said unto [the] Great Master of France that by his cause and default they were at such point, having he, by his own opinion, contrary to all others, done the Catholico King so great as he is, inferring it was proceeded from the subornations and gifts coming to him out of this court, and that any day the King his master and all the realm shall suffer thereby.
	"Furthermore, I signify unto your highness that this afternoon the Chancellor showed me in secret how they been in great pratiques with the King of Portugal for the marriage of the Lady Eleanor, saying she was infortunate being of so nobles and vertuoses condition, and for lack of youngist (youth), almost compelled to take a husband of forty-eight years, with eight children, the which before those that God might send her, unto the crown and all other things shall be preferred; and though the Chancellor speak but of the conclusion I suppose it is very nigh, and that in such case the young sister shall be marry unto the Prince of Portugal; and consequently seeing no marriage in age convenable for the Catholico that he shall in the latter end take the daughter of Portugal, with the which, I am credibly informed, the King her father offer in dower 600,000 ducats in ready money. The Lady Eleanor, by the testament of her father, and by the ancient custom of the crown of Castile, should have for her marriage 200,000 ducats: howbeit, the King of Portugal demand nothing, the apparel for her body, and is content to make her a fair dower upon sure land and rent; the sum as yet I know not.
	"By letters dated at Rome, the 15th day of March, the King hath knowledge of the death of his ambassador Don Pedro D'Ureas, and being Don Louis Carrots in commission to Naples, he is commanded to come to Rome and to join with a Fleming, named Master William Ingevorde, and serve there for ambassadors till the King shall send from hence some other born in Castile, and none in Arragon. The Lord Chievres saith they been in hand with three that ever of them ware sufficient for such charge, one is named Don Alonzo Telis, brother to the Marquis of Villiena, the other Hernando de Vega, Commandor Mayor of Spain, and the third Don Johun Manuel.
	"The King and his Council been greatly discontentis with the alliance made the Pope in France against all reason, having at his holiness instance sent unto the Duchess of Terra Nova for the marriage of her daughter, and before the answer, doubting the long tarrying should not had grieven unto the Pope, sent unto his holiness the consent of the Lord Chievres' niece with all appurtenances according to the said Pope's desire.
	"And as well for that as for the great feast and triumph made since for the deliverance of the Queens and other favorables demostrations toward the Frenchmen, I promise your grace they have here not small jealousy of the Pope and all his adherents, and been determined to answered. Touching the truce published at Rome amongst the Christian princes they wol first know the Emperor's and your grace's mind, then give resolution: and, in case the conditions been good and satisfables to the parties, then for more authority and honor of the them to accept the said truce jointly, together with such clausis that may repress the ambition and tyranny of the Frenchmen. Touching the Cardinal that is coming from Rome hitherward, if he come without faculty and as ambassador, as the Pope's nuncio saith, he shall be received, otherwise they wol not accept him.
	"The bulls of the archbishopric of Toledo arrived three days past, and the De Cabra his brother is gone to take possession for the Cardinal of Croy, who, with the reservation of all his benefices, and for the sedia vacante of four months belonging unto the Pope, hath paid in all 18,000 ducats, as the Lord Chievres showed me.
	"The Catholico King hath given charge to Fellinger to treat with Swissers. The Lord Chievres and the Chancellor gladly would that your highness had here one in your name for to perform jointly the same that hath been spoken of heretofore concerning that matter.
	"And, as I am informed, the King writ at this time unto his ambassador resident with your grace to offer you to increase the alliance and confederation he hath with your highness, by the form that shall be thought honorable and profitable to the parties; howbeit for my part I can see no way of any augmentation if the Catholico wol regard to the bownds (bonds) and promises made to the Frenchmen, the which many do affirm to be extinct, having the French King on his side, not observe and kepeth the treaty, but this I have not heard, neither of the Lord Chievres nor of the Chancellor.
	"Don Fernando shall depart from hence toward Biscay and Bilbao within ten days at furthest, and here shall take his shipping for Flanders, and if upon the coast of England the wind be contrary the Lord Chievres saith he shall land there. By the next I wol send a bill unto your highness of the Lords and gentlemen that been appointed to go with him."
	Encloses a letter from Sir J. Stile, notifying the arrival of the English ambassadors. On the last day of March Windsor arrived, desiring to know where they shall meet the King. As they landed at St. Sebastian, they are directed to go to Saragossa, whither the King is about to proceed in the end of next week. He has sent them an agousyll (alguacil) to convey them through the country. Arranda, 2 April 1518.
	Hol., pp. 9, mostly cipher, undeciphered. Add.
3 April. R.O.	4057. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The King received his letters this morning, and is much pleased with his diligence. He is of the same opinion as Wolsey respecting the messenger from D'Iselsten, viz., "that he intendeth none other thing hereby but for to be entertained by his grace under the color of this sending of Richard de la Pole into England." The King desires that thanks be sent to the Emperor for his notice of entertaining the Swiss, and is content to pay them the annual pension specified by him, whenever his majesty and the King of Arragon will do the same. He thinks that the Pope ought to be induced to bear his part in the same payment, according to the terms of the confederacy, especially as in his last brief to the King he promises to observe every article faithfully. The King is not of opinion that Pace should be sent into Switzerland, for the diet demanded by the French King, "intending to corrupt them with money," was held last Mid-lent Sunday. The King thinks the Emperor would rather have Sir Robert Wingfield, which he will not allow, and thinks that Dr. Knight should be sent, who is well forward on the journey; but, if necessary, Pace is to go.
	The King thanks Wolsey for the final clause of his letter "touching great personages," and praises Wolsey's special regard for the surety of his person. "And his highness doth signify unto your grace that he hath not been negligent herein himself; but at such time as his grace had perfect knowledge of the coming of the said great personages unto him, his grace did secretly provide that they should be advertised by their own servants resident in the court, as well of the strait lodging here as the penury of horse meat, and for these respects to bring with them a very small company. And Sir Henry Marney is executor of this the King's pleasure, and doth look thereunto both wisely and faithfully, as well within this town as nigh thereunto." The King is satisfied with the coming of the Provost of Cassel, but thinks he has some other message than that specified by Wolsey's letter, viz., to persuade war between England and France. He is to be told that the King will not break the peace between them. Pace intended to come to Wolsey, but the King commanded him to stay and write. He also wishes to see a letter mentioned in the Emperor's instructions to be sent to the Swiss from the French King's secretary, which has not been sent. There is so little horse meat at Abingdon that the King intends to return to London on Monday post dominicam in Albis (12 April), and wishes to know if there is any infection there. The Duke of Buckingham arrived today. Pace read every word of Wolsey's letter to the King, who approved of his wisdom and diligence. Abingdon, 3 April.
	Hol., pp. 5. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
4 April. R.O.	4058. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The King will return to London, as stated in his letters yesterday. The Lord Steward is to make preparations. The King will continue at Greenwich if not compelled by the sickness to leave it. Has offered himself to the King to go into Switzerland, as Wolsey had written to him in a letter of his own hand, which the King read; but the King will not permit it, as Pace wrote yesterday. For the King has observed that both the Emperor and Wolsey were advertised of the same things three months ago, and since then war is like to cease unless England stir it again. As the King is inclined to peace, and has sent a herald to Francis that he does not intend to break it unless provoked, and urged the French herald when lately here that all suspicions of war should be removed, as, e.g., sending Albany to Scotland and treating with the Swiss; if the King now treat with them, Francis will think that the King is not true to his word; and though he is bound to send an ambassador to the Swiss whenever the Pope, the Emperor and the King of Arragon will do the same, it can only be done when all the confederates are agreeable, and then only in such a way as not to break the promise made to France by Clarencieux. Abingdon, 4 April.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
5 April. Er. Ep. XI. 2.	4059. PACE to ERASMUS.
	Could not assist Peter Luscus, whom Erasmus mentions in his last letter, as the King did not think of the book Erasmus speaks of. Has read the Comedies and Tragedies which Erasmus has sent to More. Advises him to continue in his present course. Has perused his paraphrase on the Corinthians. Never thoroughly understood St. Paul before, "nunc sancta illa præcepta, quæ antea mihi sapiebant aloen, conversa sunt in mel." Wishes he would explain the remaining epistles in the same manner. Is very glad to hear that he intends to come to England next summer. If he does, the King will show him great kindness. Richmond, non. April.
6 April. R.O.	4060. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The King has this day summoned his Council, and stated that London was still infected with sickness; therefore he must avoid it. He thinks that the infection is kept from Wolsey's knowledge, as it was from his when he was there; and notwithstanding the scarceness in the country about Abingdon he is compelled to remain in places thereabouts, as comprised in the bill enclosed. Wolsey is to certify the King whether there are a sufficient number of the Council in attendance on him for the business of the next term, and advises him to leave London when it is over. Will be heartily welcome to the King if he chooses to come. Wishes a train of horses to be appointed betwixt himself and Wolsey every seven hours. Of the noblemen now about the King and their order, the King will remember such communication "concerning some of them" as has been between himself and Wolsey. He wishes to know of the progress of the sickness.—"When I had written thus far the King's grace commanded me to add unto the premises, that both his highness and all his Council doth fear the said sickness now at the beginning of these heats, which be great here considering the time of the year." The Queen said yesterday that she had perfect knowledge of the sick- ness being in London, and "that, though she be no prophet, yet she would lose her finger if some inconvenient should not ensue unto the King's person if he should at this time repass towards London. Et has ego judico esse causas istius subitæ mutationis." Sends, by the King's command, the names of all the councillors waiting on him this day. Abingdon, 6 April.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
7 April. R.O.	4061. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The Council here have desired him to advertise Wolsey that the change in the King's mind anent his return to London has procceded of himself. As far as Pace can perceive, the King is afraid of the sickness. When the Duke of Suffolk moved the King and Sir Henry Marney "that no conclusion might be taken for his grace's abode here unto such time that his grace had been advertised from your grace of the great sickness in those parts, if any be, his grace made answer that he was well at ease here, where no man cometh [to] tell him of the death of any person, as they were wont daily." He has ordered each man to provide horse meat as he can. The Dukes of Buckingham and Suffolk will leave shortly; but, by reason of his sister, the King is content Suffolk shall remain till after St. George's feast. After Suffolk had received the sacrament on Easter Day, he desired Pace to hear him speak, and said "that he had been accused as untrue to the King's grace, as well in the accepting of a protection offered unto him by the French King, as in putting the French orators at their late being here, or afore their coming, in comfort of the restitution of Tournay." This he denies upon oath. Abingdon, 7 April.
	P.S.—The King wishes to know Wolsey's opinion touching his journey to the North. He hears there is some death at Nottingham.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace.
8 April. R.O.	4062. KNIGHT to WOLSEY.
	Wrote yesterday the news received from Lady Margaret. Letters have come to her from Chievres and the Governor of Bresse, out of Spain, confirming them. She has heard from the Lord of Nassan, of his having driven into the abbey of Senloo, in conjunction with the Bishop of Cologne and the Duke of Cleves, a company of Almains who have done great hurt, and who had agreed to surrender on certain conditions, and have been slain, to the number of 3,000 or 4,000, on breaking them. Hears from La Roche that the Bishop of Luke and Robert de la Marche intend to be true Burgundians, and take the oath of fidelity to the King of Spain. Desires money for his diet if he is to remain. Mechlin, 8 April.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: Lord Cardinal of York. Endd.
8 April. [Calig. E. I. II.] 169. B. M.	4063. STEPHEN [PONCHER] BP. OF PARIS to [WOLSEY].
	Sends his secretary urging Wolsey to employ his efforts for the promotion of peace, in conformity with a conversation held with him at the composition on the business of Tournay. Came to Paris to celebrate Easter, and was desirous of sending off these letters before returning to the court. The Turk is threatening Christendom. Is anxious to use his efforts for peace, as he did in the days of Lewis XII. Paris, 8 April.
	Hol., Lat., pp. 2, mutilated.
8 April. Calig. D. VII. I. B.M.	4064. NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN ENGLAND AND FRANCE.
	Instructions from Stephen [de Poncher] Bishop of Paris to his secretary, John Gobelin, for his negotiations with Cardinal Wolsey.
	He is to remind the Cardinal that the Bishop has not forgotten the desire expressed to him by Wolsey, when he and De la Gwiche were ambassadors in England on the business of Tournay, for contracting a marriage between the daughter of Henry VIII., then two years old, and the Dauphin, if the Queen of France, who was then pregnant, should have a son. For divers reasons he has not been able to treat of this subject before. He now offers his services for that purpose. The King of France is aware of Wolsey's desire to preserve the amity between the two crowns, and hopes for his good offices in the matter. Proposes the meeting should be at Boulogne or at Calais, and that it should take place as soon as possible. Is not to be astonished that so weighty a business has been broken to him by the Bishop of Paris. (Signature burnt off).
	ii. From the same to [the same] on a similar mission.
	He shall express to the Cardinal, for his credence, the wish that he feels for a closer alliance between the two crowns by promoting the abovementioned marriage. Had resolved to send and discover if Wolsey remained of the same opinion. Is moved to do so, (1) for the good that would redound to Christendom by such a union, and the discomfiture of the Infidels; (2) by the pacific state of France, and its league with the Catholic King and the Swiss; (3) his good understanding with the Pope, consequent on the marriage between [Lorenzo] Duke of Urbino and the second daughter of Boulogne, "ditissimam et formosam." If he is agreeable, requests the negotiation may be speedy and secret, and under the color of a treaty about Tournay. He is to urge the Cardinal not to neglect so fair an opportunity. 8 April 1518.Signed.
	Lat., pp. 6, mutilated (in the hand of Vannes?)
9 April. S.B.	4065. For the WARDENS and COMMONALTY of the MYSTERY OF GROCERS, LONDON.
	Mortmain licence to acquire possessions to the annual value of 30l. from Sir John Pecche, knight of the Body, or others, for uses to be expressed in Pecche's will, on surrender of patent 24 Dec. 7 Hen. VIII., granting licence to found a chantry at Lonnyngton. Del. Westm., 9 April 9 Hen. VIII.
	Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 22.
9 April. P.S.	4066. For JOHN KENDALE, gunner.
	To be gunner in the Tower of London, with 8d. a day. Abingdon, 26 March 9 Hen. VIII. Del. Westm., 9 April.
	Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 22.
10 April. Vit. B. III. 209. B. M.	4067. The COLLEGE OF CARDINALS to WOLSEY.
	Requesting his influence with the King to secure the coadjutorship of Tournay for Cardinal St. Clement. Rome, 10 April 1518.
	Lat., p. 1, mutilated. Add.
10 April. Vit. B. III. 204. B. M.	4068. SIL. BP. OF WORCESTER to PACE.
	Expected to have heard from him by the last messenger, who came with letters of the ... ult. in answer to various things. Really greater diligence must be shown. The Pope complains every day of the slowness of letters from England, and that he never has an answer to his briefs in less than two months, which seems very strange when so much diligence is shown here, and especially seeing the activity of the Florentines. All other Princes write, even if they have no business of importance, in order to secure the interest of the Pope. The Pope has asked him ten times in two days what is the cause of this remissness. Has excused the Cardinal as well as he could. His holiness was very anxious to know the cause of the mission of the French herald to England with "Mæstro Clarensa" (Clarencieux), of which Worcester had no intelligence. Is daily asked if he has had an answer to the great offers, of which he wrote to the Cardinal, made by Cardinal Colonna and the Adorni of Genoa. But for three months he has had no answer. While Ammonius lived, Wolsey used to say to him, when he deciphered Worcester's letters, "In such a matter, answer thus; and on that other, thus;" and told him the news; which Worcester was thus enabled to communicate to the Pope; "et ad quel modo poteva poi esser sua Signoria Reverendissima un pocho piu morosa allo scriver dei medesma, et per conclusionc finc che Ammonio visse le cose... dorno molto bene et per li pedi soi et honorevolmente."
	Since then, things have been much neglected. Knows well this has been owing to the plague. Begs Pace will press this upon Wolsey, who makes such difficulty in giving audience to his subcoll[ector] and Peter Vannes. The King and Cardinal desired him formerly to write everything important to Ammonius, and to give credence to his letters. Thinks the same should be done as regards Pace; and, as it might be too much trouble to Pace to answer at length, it would be sufficient for him to give directions to the [sub]collector or to Peter Vannes. Writes under correction of Pace, from whom he is expecting letters, having heard that he had gone to court; and had received the briefs, and was well satisfied with them. The Pope says he never gave a dispensation for changing the office, but Worcester will see what he can do. Pace must have heard of the Duke of Urbino's going into France. No one has a good opinion of this affinity. "Distantia (sua Santita) e cascata in questo errore per troppa affectione che li porta; non gia che non se ne penti in secretis, et che non cognosca che non pol durare in amiciciacon pinguedo (Francia) per la sua insolentia. Fino ad qui pinguedo (Francia) si monstra molto utile, et va secundando distantia (S. Santita), quanto sia possibile; ma come il ducasia in Francia, che ad questa hora vi debbe essere, ad ogni modo fara qualche bestiale domanda, et distantia (S. Santita), ha di cio grande paura; et pur dice continue non esser per conceder cosa, che sia prejudiciale ad alcuno, quando ben dovesse abandonare il suo nepote.
	Questa e cosa difficile ad credere, et ego (il Orator Inglese) tiene che [a]d ogni modo distantia (S. Santita) habbi a fare qualche scappuccio ... contra sua voglia, et cosi par si creda in Hispania et... [q]uesti giorni vennero lettere come haveanno preso grande gelosia in questa affinita, et distantia (S. Santita) secura pur ingenium (Orator Hispanus), come fa anco ego (Orator Angliæ) che per niente se dubiti per ... ad ogni modo la pace universale, saltem la [Regna] per cinque anni, et dice che cosi pinguedo (Francia) li fa instantia di volere. Ego ha resposto che la sua mente si ... credere; ma la troppa affectione al duca fac ... ogni homo suspectare, et anco che una armata d ... galee, che incertitudo (Rex Franciæ) ha facta a Genna, dava assai e ... ecti, non vogli dicta incertitudine inovare qual cosa. Dis[tantia] (S. Santita) responde et jura che lei non sa cosa alcuna, immo che lei ... anco cinque galee, in compagnia delle 13, per incontrare cer ... sari mori, che sono usi ogni anno scorrere questi nostri mari, et che quando Pinguedo habbi altro animo che epsa forte ingannata, et per niente lo pol credere, et piu o ... dicta Distantia juro ad ego che lei non vorria per modo al[cuno] la grandessa de Pinguedo, et comisse cosi lo scriv ... virtu (Henry VIII.) et fortessa (Wolsey), per che ben cognosce che non fa per lei ... grandemente desidera la strecta unione fra virtu (Inghilterra) et P[inguedo], per che Pinguedo non sia insolente, come sa che saria quando al ... fusse. Brevemente Distantia (S. Santita) dice et promette molto ben ... si vedera quello producera questa affinita ad og[ui] ... queste galee armate ad Genua danno pur ... suspitione delle cose del regno Nea [politano]. Molti desidereriano per la ruina de Pinguedo che ... inganno di assaltare decto regno p ... sa che saria causa de sveglare Prolixita (lo imperatore), che hora mai trop[po] dorme."
	The truce between the Emperor and the Venetians is nearly concluded. The Emperor, according to his wont, will touch the money. Don Louis Carroz, formerly ambassador here from the Catholic King, is expected as ambassador here, in consequence of the death of Don Pedro. Don Jeronimo Vich retires, to the general regret. All the legates, except the Cardinal Farnese, who is ill at Viterbo, will start in two days. The said legates have no faculties, and they are prohibited in the bulls. It is thought, however, that when they reach their destination they will make instance to procure faculties; a request to which Wolsey ought not to consent, because it has been already refused in Spain.
	News of the Turks. Will be with the Pope in a few days, touching the deprivation of Cardinal Hadrian, which Worcester thinks is certain, by reason of the promise made him, and the brief sent to the King. The Pope is, however, by nature dilatory. The Cardinal must provide the money for expediting the matter of the church of Bath, which will amount to six [thousand] ducats, because Wolsey does not partake in the privileges of [Cardinals] not being at Rome, "saltem una volta Cardinale; come anc[o non ne ha] participato il nepote di Cevres Cardinale, che e bisognato paghi[are] la spesa della ecclesia Toletana, come se non fusse stato Cardinale." Desires his compliments to Mr. Lark, Wolsey's servant, whose modesty and virtue every one talks of.
	"Se intende de novo pur da Agilita (Re Catolico) che non resta per niente satisfacta de questa affinita de Distantia con Pinguedo; benche epsa Agilita simuli et vadi monstrando haver fede in Distantia, che por questa non sia per innovare to lassare innovare cosa alcuna, come continue dicta Distantia promette. Et per questo ad Ego non pare per niente, che sia di riposare sul dire di decta Distantia, ansi che sia da star ben con li occhij aperti, perche e troppo facile et troppo affectionata al Duca de Urbino. Ma stima Ego che sara ben facto, che virtu et fortessa (Henry and Wolsey) scrivino a Distantia, che benche questa affinita habbi data loro admiratione assai, tamen visto quello Distantia scrive et promette ad Ego de continuo, existimandosi che sia per observare quanto promette che loro restano ben contenti di quello, si e contentata decta Distantia, o come meglo occorrera a diligentia (Pace); ma ad ognimodo ad Ego (mi) pare per concludere che sia da simularla, et non pero da fi .. rsi che Pinguedo con suoi artificii non sia per far Distantia [tra]boccare in qualche grande inconveniente, maxime poi che il Duca de Urbino sara in Francia, come diligentia (Pace) optimamente intende; et ego p ... diligentia (Pace) che vogli far tucto bene ad fortessa (Wolsey) legendoli tucta la lettera et dandone particolare adviso." Rome, 10 April 151[8].Signed.
	Ital., pp. 9, mutilated. Some passages in cipher. Address pasted on below the signature: [Reveren]do Domino Ricardo Paceo [con]siliario ac secretario [Regis], London.
11 April. Vesp. C. XIV. 64b. B. M.	4069. HENRY VIII. to the CITY [OF LONDON].
	Edward Vaux, one of the King's purveyors, has sundry times been with them to provide carriage of wine for the King's household from London to Abingdon, but without effect. Commands them to be more obedient in future. The Monastery of Abingdon, 11 April.Signed.
	P. 1.
11 April. R.O.	4070. PACE to WOLSEY.
	In behalf of the bearer, the abbot of Valle Crucis, recommending him as successor to the late Bp. of St. Asaph. He is the King's chaplain and doctor of both laws. Abingdon, 11 April.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
11 April. R.O.	4071. PACE to WOLSEY.
	Has received his letters expressive of the great pleasure he has inbeing advertised by the King of all occurrences, and has thanked the King, as desired. "His highness is no less contented with your grace's contentation than though ye were his own father." Is glad to do him any service he can, "signifying unto your said grace that ye shall find no servant of yours within England more studious to do faithfully that thing as shall appertain to your power, or surety of your person, than I." Is glad of his opinion touching his return to the Swiss. At his coming to Abingdon with the King, was ready to have done so, but abandoned it at the King's command when Clarencieux returned from France. Had begged leave of the King to repair to the Cardinal's presence, as he commanded, to treat on the subject, offering to ride to the Swiss without delay. Hopes he will take in good part what he has stated of the danger he would be in through the Emperor's displeasure, and not suffer him to be cast away. Thinks the French King would be provoked if he were sent to the Swiss. The Bastard of Savoy openly said, when Pace was in Switzerland, that to compel the King to desist from entertaining the Swiss, he would induce the French King to send Richard de la Pole into England and create great dissension. Has not said this from any wish for his own ease. If the King's money is wasted there as before, the last error will be worse than the first. Thinks he can do Wolsey greater service whilst he is absent from the King by staying in England. Abingdon, 11 April.
	Hol., pp. 5. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
11 April. R.O.	4072. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The Queen commands him to ask Wolsey for Mr. Christopher Plummer, her grace's chaplain, to remain with her this term, as she has none other to say matins with. Abingdon, 11 April.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
11 April. Martene Amp. C. 1282.	4073. WOLSEY to SILVESTER BP. OF WORCESTER.
	Regrets greatly to hear of the incursions of the Turks. A joint expedition of Christian princes appears absolutely indispensable. Of this the King is fully aware, and has laid aside his private animosities for the general welfare. Wolsey, out of his regard for the Christian religion, would not fail in urging the King to this course, but he does not require urging. Has informed the King of the Pope's intention to send a legate for this purpose to all the princes of Christendom, and that Cardinal Campeggio is to execute this commission in England. Although it is not usual to admit any foreign cardinal to exercise legatine authority in this realm, the King is content to waive that objection, provided that all those faculties which are conceded to legates de jure are suspended, and that Wolsey be joined with Campeggio in equal authority by papal mandate. Otherwise the King will in no wise allow Campeggio to enter England: "neque hujus regni municipalia jura, quæ sancte regia majestas observare astringitur, hoc sinerent." Recommends to him John Salvaggi, a Genoese. London, 11 April 1518.
12 April. R.O.	4074. PACE to WOLSEY.
	Received his letters dated the 10th, with those of Cardinal Sion to Wolsey, and the instructions of the Provost of Cassel and "the Kinge's giestis" to the North. The King wishes Sion to have the rest of his commission and the pension promised, but exceedingly dislikes the provost's instructions, as Wolsey does, touching Tournay. Thinks the arbitrament of the same as unreasonable, "as though a man should put his own gown in compromise of other persons." The King thinks there is some crafty design in Spain, to which the provost is not privy: they have sent him therefore with a slender message. He is also surprised at the King of Castile's statement that he had credible information of the King having prepared an army against France. He ought not to have given credence to so great a matter before he had been advertised by the King. He is satisfied with the arrangements for his northern progress, but wishes inquiry to be made about the sickness, as four or five persons have died of it at Nottingham, as appears by a bill enclosed. It is secretly said that the Queen is with child. Prays God heartily it may be a prince, to the surety and universal comfort of the realm. Begs Wolsey will write a kind letter to the Queen. Praises Lord Mountjoy as Wolsey's faithful friend. Has been told today that the King will give "Sancte Asse to Freier Standyche; wheroff I wolde be ryght sorye for the goode service he was lyke to do to the churche. Erit tamen difficile huic rei obstare (ut mihi videtur) quia majestas regia illum mihi jampridem laudavit ex doctrina, et omnes isti domini aulici eidem favent de singulari quam navavit opera ad ecclesiam Anglicam subvertendam." Abingdon, 12 April.
	Hol., pp. 3. Add.. To my Lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.
12 April. R.O.	4075. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The King desires Wolsey to write to Mr. Controller, and command him to attend his grace. The King has given the Duke of Buckingham "a goodly courser, a rich gown, a like jacket doublet and hosen." Abingdon, 12 April.
	Hol., p. 1. Add.: To my Lord Cardinal's grace. Endd.: 12 April. Also in Agarde's hand: Richard Pace's court news; also his negociation with the Switzers. Ex. XXV. Maii 1612.
12 April. Giust. Desp. II. 178.	4076. SEBASTIAN GIUSTINIAN to the DOGE.
	On visiting the Cardinal was shown a document addressed to the Pope, empowering the Bp. of Worcester to act as the King's ambassador, and authorizing him to join the Christian expedition and ratify any peace sanctioned by his holiness. He then asked Giustinian whether the Signory wished for peace or war with the Emperor. On his saying "Peace," Wolsey replied that the King of France was the greatest obstacle to this; and accused him of cajoling the Emperor. Sebastian distrusted this intelligence; and Wolsey hinted that he had received it on the authority of Cardinal Sion. When Sebastian said that Francis had always evinced great friendship for the Signory, "the Cardinal made answer, 'Don't be surprised, for you have often been deceived by the Kings of France.' To this I said that 'Alius fuit Ludovicus, alius Franciscus'; and he replied, 'Omnes sunt Galli.'" On Sebastian endeavoring to press the subject of the wines, Wolsey promised that a fortnight hence, when Parliament met, Sebastian should be heard. London, 12 April 1518.
12 April. Calig. D. VII. 4. B. M.	4077. FRANCIS I.
	Contemporary copy of a commission [from Francis I.] to ... Comte d'Ast, Sieur de Gennes, Adam Fumer, knt., Sieur des Roches, maître des requestes ordinaire of the King's household, and Merlin de St. Glaiz, Sieur de St. Sevrin, his first maître d'hotel, for enforcing the concordat lately concluded between the King and the Pope, in the country of Dauphiné, and to appear in Paris there to collect information against the preachers and others who have taken part in the late seditious assemblies. 12 April 1518, 4 Francis I.
	Fr., pp. 4, mutilated.
12 April.	4078. For the MONASTERY OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, ATHELNEY.
	Assent to the election of John Harte, as abbot. Westm., 12 April.
	ii. Writ to the escheator of Somerset and Dorset for restitution of the temporalities. Westm., 20 April.
	Pat. 9 Hen. VIII. p. 2, m. 21.
12 April. S.B.	4079. For HENRY LYMSTER.
	To be gunner quartermaster in Tournay, with 8d. a day; void by surrender of John Kendale.
	Endd.: Entered into wages the 12th day of April, anno regni Regis Henrici VIII^vi 9^o.
12 April. Er. Ep. App. 391.	4080. JOHN BABHAM to ERASMUS.
	Thanks him for his letters; finds himself unequal to the task of writing to such a one as Erasmus. Oxford, 12 April.
13 April. Adv. MS. 27.	4081. LEO X. to PATRICK PANITER.
	Prolongs for one year more the dispensations which had already been granted on his promotion to the abbacy of Cambuskenneth; the first, allowing him one year to take the habit and profession, and afterwards a second and a third, in consideration that he has been sent to France by the King of Scots, and now resides there. Rome, 13 April 1518, 6 pont.
	Copy, Lat., pp. 3.
14 April. Vit. B. XIX. 46. B. M.	4082. [PACE] to [WOLSEY.]
	... The King [has received Wolsey's] four letters dated the 11th ... of this month, with my lord the [Cardinal of Sion's] (fn. 1) instructions, the letters from [Dr. Knight*] and the Deputy of Calais, and the answer to the Pope's articles. Is desired by the King to make answer: first, that he is well pleased at the overthrow of the Black Band of the Almayns, as also with the other news that the Bp. of Luke and Robert de la Marche intend to [join with the] Burgonyons, which, if true, will be a great aid to the King of Castile, against the Duke of Gueldres. Touching the answer to be made to the Lord d'Isselstein, the King gives [Wolsey] permission to write it in his name. Touching the Cardinal of Sion's instructions, though the King clearly sees, as Wolsey suggests, that it may be a drift to disturb the French King "his [enny]mys" affairs in Switzerland, he is [conten]ted that Pace shall go to the Swiss to treat with the ambassadors of the Emperor and the King of Castile upon the acceptance of the league concluded in England. The King will be glad to pay, according to his late promise made to the Emperor, his part (viz., 20,000 florins) of the annual pension to be given to the Swiss, and also to send by letters of exchange his part of 24,000 crowns ... florins, as well for sustaining the ... of the diets in Switzerland as for the ... of our friends there against the ... "[his] grace hath noted by the said ... great effusion of money employed [by the French] King to corrupt the Swiss ... [con]tented to expend money as liberally as ... entertaining of them, and to establish ... with them, if it may be." This liberal disposition of the King's [must be] kept very secret, for if the Emperor or the Cardinal of Sion should discover it they would "never cease from asking of me, the denying whereof might be destruction." It will be sufficient if they be informed in general terms that nothing shall be wanting there to the accomplishment of the premises on the King's part.
	The King has commanded Pace to send to Wolsey for [correction] the instructions lately made by Pace himself [touching] the Swiss "... [m]y house at London, and I have written to ... and in his absence to the Master of the [Rolls] ... thence and to deliver them unto ... and at such time as such instructions [shall be] finished and sent hither to his grace to [be rea]d and signed. His grace's pleasure is that then I [sha]ll depart towards your grace and set forward [on my] voyage." Meanwhile money is to be provided for Pace, so that he may have it at Basle or Lyndowe, whatever difficulties the bankers make. Pace's departure is to be kept secret, and no person to be made privy to the instructions but my Lord of Du[rham]. All the money which is to be expended on the King's business had better be paid into the bank of Velzers. If the Fucars had it they would retain as much for themselves as [should be] of them demanded, "for the loan of money ... by them unto Sir Robert Wingfield." The best provision must be made for Pace's sure passage out of the lands ... of Robert de la Marche. Fears, if he repair to the Emperor, who expects to see the ambassador sent by England to the Swiss, he will not be welcome; [if] not, the Emperor may put him to trouble, "or worse than trouble." The King greatly approves of Wolsey's reply to the ... "Touching the last article ... his grace tanquam vere Christianissimus Rex, it should be added that [if] that such as doth dwell in the ... of the oriental parts, shall not be [suf]ficient nor able to resist the Turk's invasion, they shall have aid in money of all Christian princes, under security." When his instructions are sent back requests that Peter, who writes the Latin letters, may be sent with them to make out letters for the safety of his person. Abyng[don], 14 April.
	Pp. 6, badly mutilated.
14 April. R.O. Ellis, 3 S. I. 184.	4083. PACE to WOLSEY.
	Before Wolsey's application for the advancement of the Prior of St. Bartholomew's [W. Bolton] to St. Asaph, the King promised that see to a learned friar. Though Masters of the Works have heretofore been promoted, the King thinks it was not for their skill in building, but for some other good quality annexed, as profound learning. He will reward the Prior with some smaller preferment. Pace is mortified to think that the friar is probably Standish, who is not to be compared with the Prior: "sed principum voluntatibus arduum est refragari." Abingdon, 14 April.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: My Lord Cardinal's grace.
15 April. R.O.	4084. SILVERSTER BP. OF WORCESTER to PACE.
	Was displeased at receiving no letters from Pace by the courier of the 18th ult.; and much more so when he got no letters either from the Cardinal or Pace by the 29th, notwithstanding the importance of what he had written on the part of the Pope in regard to occurrences here, and the briefs of his holiness. Has often signified to Wolsey how displeasing this backwardness was to the Pope; and it is most ill-timed and dishonorable to both the King and Cardinal. Nor does his being engaged in most important and arduous negotiations excuse him, as he could easily employ somebody else to write to the Bishop of Worcester. Silverster, Worcester's vice-collector, would be the best man for anything of the kind, being a most honest man and a good writer; and if the Cardinal could not see him oftener, he should have an audience once a week at least. Requests Pace's good offices in assisting in bringing this about. Has written to the Cardinal on the subject. Is himself very busy in answering letters, and asks Pace's advice how to proceed in the matter, in which, after the death of Andreas Ammonius, he remembered nothing had been done. All the ambassadors have left. They ought to have had some reply as to the mind of the King and Wolsey before they did so; but the Pope, receiving no letters, though the time had been ample, did not wish them to defer their departure. Hears from France that they eagerly expect the ambassador destined to be sent them, whose name is Sancta Maria in Porticu. Has heard nothing of the confirmation of the five years' truce, except that the one between the Emperor and the Venetians was looked upon as concluded. The Turk has been again much troubled by the Sophi, and has commanded all his people round about Constan- tinople to find him, on peril of their life. The French orator, by the order of his King, greatly favors Hadrian, which, though not dangerous, has greatly incensed the Pope, as did the rare correspondence of Pace and the Cardinal in the matter; still the Pope proceeds to the deprivation. The affair will suffer some delay, as the Pope has left Rome for fifteen days, for his health's sake. Will urge it upon him, however, on his return. Rome, 15 April 1518.Signed.
	Ital., pp. 3. Add.: Reverendo Domino Ricardo Paceo, Consiliario ac Secretario Regio.