Henry VIII: August 1521, 1-10 | British History Online

Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1867.

Citation:

'Henry VIII: August 1521, 1-10', in Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, Volume 3, 1519-1523, ed. J S Brewer( London, 1867), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/letters-papers-hen8/vol3/pp595-610 [accessed 5 November 2024].

August 1521



1 Aug.	1452. WYNCHECOMBE ABBEY.
	Inspeximus to Richard the abbot, of a charter of Hen. IV., exempting the abbey from toll; another of Hen. II.; another of 35 Hen. III.; and of patents 4 & 35 Edw. I., 14 Ric. II., and 20 Edw. IV., all in favor of the abbey. Westm., 1 Aug.
	Pat. 13 Hen. VIII. p. 2. m. 25.
1 Aug. R. O. St. P. I. 25.	1453. WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.
	According to his letter sent yesterday from Canterbury, being stopped at Dover by contrary winds, he has devised a book for the archers, as he promised. Sends a copy of two short letters, one to the Emperor, the other to my Lady, which he begs the King will copy out and return by the bearer. Will not advance towards the Emperor till he has taken some convenient order with the ambassadors of France, to avoid all jealousy and suspicion. Will advise the King from time to time how he proceeds with both parties. Dover, 1 Aug. Signed.
	Add.
R. O.	2. Copy of the same, in the same hand.
Aug. R. O. St. P. I. 24.	1454. PACE to WOLSEY.
	The King has received his letters, dated July 31st, advising Sir William Sandis to command the army of five or six thousand archers. He has carefully noted the tidings from Sir Richard Wingfield concerning the Emperor's ambassadors. As Sandis has such good qualities, the King will have more need of him at home, and cannot with his honor send an army out of his realm under any captain lower than an earl; and as many good knights of experience must go with it, they would disdain to be under Sandis. He is not pleased with the variation of the Emperor's ambassadors, who now refuse to treat jointly with the French ambassadors before Wolsey, as had been determined. He quite agrees with the remedy proposed by Wolsey. He does not propose to proceed in the enterprise for the destruction of the Frency navy, till Wolsey has completed the arrangement with the Emperor. Windsor,—Aug.
	Hol. Add.
1 Aug. R. O.	1455. PACE to WOLSEY.
	After sending off a letter to you today, a post arrived with your letters to the King, dated yesterday, enclosing a copy of a letter to Sir Ric. Wingfield from the Audiencer, and an extract of news from Spinelly. The King thanks you for your diligent advertisements. No letters of importance have come since you were here. The King has seen them all, and will continue to do so. He is well pleased with your quick passage to Calais, according to the Emperor's desire, to avoid the suspicion and jealousy mentioned in your letters. Windsor, 1 Aug.
	Hol., pp. 2. Add.: To my lord Legate's grace.
2 Aug. Calig. D. VIII. 84. B. M.	1456. FITZWILLIAM to [WOLSEY].
	Montpesat arrived here on Monday the 29th J[uly]. Next day he sent [us your] letter, which day the King wasout hunting. On Wednesday I told him such things as you desired me, and he said he understood by Montpesat that the Emperor would take no truce, whereof he was very [glad], for, seeing the Emperor had refused it, he would not consent to it; for under color of this truce the Emperor does him all the displeasure he can. His men had almost taken Montpesat upon the sea; and if he had not been helped by the English, who were fain to arm a ship for him at Dover, and a little boat to go by her, they would have taken him. As it was, they chased him so close that they were fain to set him on land at Whitsand. They have taken many French ships, but Francis says he will be meet with him shortly, and have 40 or 50 sail ready for war within these 20 days. I said the King had written to the Emperor to compel his men to abstain from war, and I requested him to do the same, as the meeting at Calais was so near. He replied that, whatever came of the meeting, he would not let slip his advantage now; meaning, as I suppose, the army he has in Italy, where he is far too strong. He told me that the Spaniards have taken and razed St. John Peterport, but said nothing of what men he had lost there, although he told me before that there were 3,000 French there. Am told the Spaniards got it by assault, and slew every man in it; but this comes through a doubtful channel.
	Francis said the mutiny in Spain was never greater than now, and that he had received a letter within these two days, written by the constable of Spain to a Spanish lord, saying that he would be compelled to leave Navarre in danger of being lost, which he had won with great honor, "and all through these ungracious rebels aforesaid, whereby he sayeth he know[eth that the Emperor] returneth back; and without fail the Admiral, in case the [treaty be] not made by your grace now at Calais, shall enter into Nav[arre within] 3 weeks at the furthest," along with the best captains in France, [25,000] foot and 1,400 spears. Francis says "he hath commanded Mons. de [Bourbon] together with 6,000 foot more and 2,000 horse, and he shall be chief in Burgundy, and not La Tremoyle." He looks every day for the Swiss of whom I wrote, and says he is informed surely that the Emperor will lay siege to Tournay, which if he do, [he can]not raise the siege, for they have broken all the passages, [but will] lay siege to St. Omer or Betwyn; that the Emperor had been at Ghent, and there preached to the people himself, telling them he was born there, and hoping they would help him at his need, "for [either] he would leave the French king in his shirt, or else he should [so leave] him;" on which they have granted him 4,000 f[oot], to be found at their charge; other towns also have granted to their powers.
	The day I spoke to the King, my Lady was somewhat accrased. Wished to see her to find whether she was as well minded to the peace as formerly. Today I came to her presence, and she told me Montpesat had shown her as the King told me before, and said I should see, before the month was out, what the strength of France was; for she trusted, though the Emperor vaunted of the journey of Navarre, as though he had won all the realm, that before this month and the next were at an end he should have no cause to boast. Was sorry to hear her speak so like a man of war. She was ever my comfort for peace, and I besought her to be a mean for the same still. She said, as the Emperor had refused the truce, her son would never consent to it, and she had great doubt even about peace, though she would be gladder of that "than she maketh fair of." She bid me say Francis was content with Montpesat's message, and the good words spoken to him by the King. He gave a good report of the King and Wolsey; but, as I have heard, he said, "all England after cared not and all the Frenchmen were in the same case they were in Navarre."
	Am told there were many men slain in St. John Peterport. A little before the Spaniards arrived there, a dozen gentlemen were sent into the hold to encourage those within, and they were all slain; but, if this be true it is kept very secret. The Spaniards have been before Salvatere in Guyenne, and, it is supposed, have won it, as it is not strong. Was with the King's sister, who told me many of the Pope's acts, which, if true, are little to his honor. She said twice or thrice that it was a strange thing the house of France ever used a plain way without dissimulation, and yet all princes were glad to hear of their loss. I said the King was not glad of the loss or dishonor of Francis; and she said, laughing, If so, there is one, but no more. I see they do not trust England in the least, but give us good words for fear. Advises that Calais be victualled, and a barque or two rigged for war against your going over, for I believe they care not what they do. I am told the duke of [Vendosme] is commanded to raise 12,000 foot. The letter written to the King is word for word like this. I have ordered the bearer either to present or return it as you think fit. I beg leave to come and meet you at Calais. "A le Ch[ateau] de Vyleneff," 2 Aug. Signed.
	Pp. 4, mutilated.
2 Aug. R. O. St. P. VI. 77.	1457. FITZWILLIAM to [HENRY VIII.]
	On Monday, 29th July, Montpesat arrived, and sent a letter he had received from the cardinal. The rest of the letter is a verbatim copy of that addressed to Wolsey. Vyleneff, 2 Aug. Signed.
2 Aug. Ashmol., 1113, f. 1.	1458. WOLSEY'S JOURNEY to CALAIS.
	"The landinge of my lorde Cardynall[es] grace at Caleys, the seconde of August," with the names of the French ambassadors, and "of our noble men of Englande," and the manner of the meeting.
3 Aug. R. O. St. P. I. 26.	1459. PACE to [WOLSEY].
	Rougecross, the bearer, arrived yesternight, whom Pace took to the King, requesting his grace to write the letters to the Emperor and my Lady, as Wolsey wished; "and his highness promised unto me that he would exspeed them in the morning, as he hath done, and would neither superscribe them, nor put wax upon them, because the French king's letters of his own hand was so lately sent unto him, and it was his pleasure to use that manner as a precedent, saying that in what manner soever his letters went by your grace's hands, they should be well accepted. I have made an E upon the Emperor's letter, and an M upon my Lady's. As touching the book, and the minute of the letters to be sent forth for making of archers, his grace hath deferred to see the same till tomorrow, saying that certain harts were so lodged for him that he must needs hunt them." He approves of Wolsey keeping Fitzwilliam in France, of which Pace and Marny were glad, as they had expressed the same opinion. He continues in the same mind with reference to Sir William Sandys.
	"Where your grace commandeth me to [show] unto the King all such letters as I shall write in matters of weight and great importance by his commandment to your grace, I have continually so done, and shall not fail in time to come to do the same; and his grace is well contented to hear them, as he commanded me to write unto your grace in my last letters, and I by my will would write no letter of importance that should pass by my hands not viewed by his grace, for mine own discharge, and especially in such causes as be now in hand; wherefore, I shall be greatly bound unto your grace, if it shall please the same to move the King by writing to be contented that all letters of importance touching these great affairs may pass under his sign and seal for the surety of all those that shall meddle with them." Windsor, 3 Aug.
	Hol.
R. O.	1460. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
	Has sent the Archbishop of Palermo, provost of Saint Donas, Bruges, chief master of Requests, the count of Cariati, one of his council, and the seigneur de Traseignes, chamberlain, and knight of my Order, to wait upon Wolsey. Similar orders have been given to those who will meet him in the Emperor's towns. Would have done more, but that the chief part of his people are with the army. Gand, 3 Aug. 1521. Signed. Countersigned: Lalemand.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: A mons. le Card. legat, primat et lieutenant general d'Angleterre.
3 Aug. R. O.	1461. ABBOT OF STRATFORD.
	Receipt by Dan Robt. Parker, vice Wm. Tyder, abbot of Stratforth, 3 Aug. 13 Hen. VIII., from John a Parysse, Parker's father-in-law, of 40l. which the abbot sent for the King's money.
Galba, B. VII. 57. B. M. St. P. I. 27.	1462. [WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.]
	As I wrote in my last, on the following day I had communication with the Emperor's ambassadors, and not only endeavored to feel their minds as to the marriage of their master with my lady Princess, but also as to providing for your indemnity, in case, either by rupture of the espousals with France, or by giving assistance to the Emperor, the duties now paid by France, with the dower of your sister, were witheld. As to the marriage, they were highly favorable, but took exception to the provision for the King's indemnity, stating that this would be buying friendship, and that Henry was bound to give aid to the Emperor against invasion. To show that the invasion had proceeded from the French king, they produced many evidences, especially intercepted letters, addressed by the French king to the count de Carpi at Rome, signed with his hand, and subscribed by Robert Tett, giving full account of his intended enterprise, as well by Robert de la Mark, as by the commotion of Italy and disturbance of Naples. They thought assistance should have been given against such invasion before it was demanded, and there was no stipulation in the treaty for the King's indemnity. To these allegations, "being in the first appearance right quick and pregnant, I made such answer that, after long debating and much difficulty, I induced them to take sad consideration to the damage and loss that ye should sustain" in joining with them against France. And I have good hope that whereas you have now out of France 16,000l. or thereabouts, you shall have yearly 40,000 mks. until you have recovered your righteous inheritance in France, or be otherwise recompensed.
	Desired, finally, to know what powers they had to treat on these matters, offering to show his own. They exhibited two commissions, the one for the marriage, and the other for the stricter amity and entry of the wars, On examination, some errors and insufficiency were pointed out in the wording, which they acknowledged, and offered to get commissions renewed in the same terms as Wolsey's. They continually urged me to advance on my journey towards the Emperor, which I refused, for the reasons stated in my last, telling them I would not leave Calais till everything was concluded, both for the alliance and for the indemnity, so that on my coming to the Emperor nothing should remain except the declaration of the King's constant mind towards him, which no one could tell him but myself. On this they fell to capitulations, which will be engrossed with all diligence, and made in the manner most to your honor. Today the French ambassadors entered this town, and were honorably received at the entry of the English pale by the M[arshal,] spears and other horsemen of this town, and by my lord Chamberlain and your councillors here. I have not yet spoken with them.
	Draft, pp. 3, mutilated.
Vit. B. XX. 255. B. M. St. P. I. 29.	2. After writing the above, received letters from the secretary [in answer to such] writings as he [has sent] from time to time during his progress. Does not think there is any ground for the objections which the secretary makes to the appointment of Sir Wm. Sandes as captain of the archers, to aid the Emperor, saying that the knights in the army would not recognise him as their superior, though he is ... and a knight of the order. Thinks he is the most fit person. The earl of Shrewsbury, is as active as any captain in the realm, but should be reserved in case the Scots attempt any invasion, to which the French king will incite them if Henry aids the Emperor, and he will probably send Albany thither for that purpose. Shrewsbury is better fitted for this, on account of his strength in those parts, and his alliance with lord Dacre. The earl of Worcester, as Wolsey lately wrote, has experience and activity fit [to command an] army royal, "and therefore ye may in no wise lack him, but to keep him ..." The lord Marquis is valiant and active, but would be more expensive than a lower person, and for other reasons, "specially when fortune in acts martial ha ..." might well be forborne at this time. As to Henry's fear that other knights would disdain to follow Sandes, when Wolsey lately devised the book of retinue sent to the King from Dover, some of the best knights present, as Sir John Hussey and Sir John Petchie, were the better minded to go, because Sandes was named as their chieftain. Thinks these are the best knights, except Sir Ric. Sacheverell, in whom he supposes no disdain nor untowardness will be found. If it is necessary to send the archers over while Wolsey is here, though he is a spiritual man, he will order the retinue at their coming, and cause the Emperor to set forth his whole puissance with them in person. Will also proceed with them himself, with his cross, that Henry's purpose may not be disappointed, or his money spent in vain.
	Draft, corrected and added to by Ruthal, mutilated.
Calig. D. VIII. 131. B. M.	1463. [FRANCIS I. to WOLSEY.]
	According to [agreement], sends his Chancellor to the conference which is to take place at Calais in Wolsey's presence, hoping that through his affection to England the matters in hand may have good effect, and that Wolsey will take care of Francis' honor.
	Hol., Fr., p. 1, mutilated. Add.: A mon bon amy.
4 Aug. Galba, B. VII. 90. B. M.	1464. SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
	Was informed of your landing by Echyngham, my servant, who came from thence by post on Friday last at midnight. Told the Emperor yesterday morning, as soon as he rose, who appeared very glad of the news, and called the officers of his house to prepare for his going to Bruges as soon as the notification should come from his ambassadors. It arrived this morning, and he leaves tomorrow, when he will rest at Eclo, and on Tuesday at Bruges. He said he was entirely satisfied with the communications between you and his ambassadors. Count Nassau has removed with his army along the Meuse against Masieres. Count Felix is before Bullyon, which they expect to win shortly. Don John Manuel writes from Rome, 21st ult., that the viceroy of Naples, the marquis of Pescara, and the count de Potentya have by this time joined Prospero Colonna. Their numbers will now be 1,000 spears, and as many light horse, which, with 4,000 Spanish foot, the Pope's army of 800 spears, 6,000 foot, and the rebels of Milan, will invade the duchy. The French have left in Parma 200 spears, and the lord Frederic of Borgery was in Placentia, with 2,000 Italian foot and Lescu. The affairs of Genoa are in the same state, and it is resolved to lose no time there, but bring all forces to bear upon Milan; this gained, the rest will fall.
	Sion has written from Zurich that the diet at Baden was kept on the 24th, and nothing determined but that the foot who had gone without leave to join the French shall return upon pain of rebellion and confiscation, which they began to do on the first commandment. 2,000 of them that remained in the Pope's service were countermanded. An answer will be made to the Pope at another diet, on the 4th inst., about the 10,000 he requires to restore the duke of Bary. For all the money the French king has wasted upon the Swiss, they will not serve him. Ghent, 4 Aug. 1521.
	Hol., pp. 3, mutilated. Add.
5 Aug. R. O.	1465. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
	Have received your letter by the bearer. Am much pleased that the King has accepted the horses I offered him, and that you have sent this gentleman for them. The chief equerry has taken him through the stables to choose some, and three remain of those which pleased him most. Gand, 5 Aug. Signed. Countersigned: Haneton.
	Fr., p. 1. Add.: "A mons. le cardinal d'York, legat et primat d'Angleterre."
5 Aug. Mon. Habs. 233.	1466. WOLSEY to CHARLES V.
	After several communications with his ambassadors, thinks there is hope of bringing matters to a good end. Wishes to take part in his affairs as one of his servants and councillors. Hears he intends to take the field in person with the army raised by Francisque Sekyn, but advises him not to do so, seeing that he knows for certain that Francis will not lead his army, and that the year is too advanced to do more than waste the country. It will be a useless expenditure and loss of time. The honor will be the same if Sekyn is successful, and if unsuccessful the dishonor will not be as great. Calais, Monday, 5 Aug. Signed.
	Fr.
5 Aug. Le Glay, II. 535.	1467. DU PRAT and the FRENCH AMBASSADORS at CALAIS to FRANCIS I.
	Arrived on Sunday, and were honorably received. The Chamberlain came to tell them that Wolsey would see them the next day, Monday, at 1 p.m., when they delivered their letters, and said that they came, in compliance with the king of England's request, to put an end to the differences between their master and Charles, for which he thanked them, and said he would visit in person Francis and the King Catholic, and even go on foot to Rome, if necessary for this object. Said it was necessary to know what powers the Flemish ambassadors had, and whether they had sent letters to the king of England similar to those sent by the French, and that they (the French) were furnished with everything necessary. He said that since the victory obtained by the King Catholic in Navarre, the Pope had taken his side, and that he had obtained money from his countries here, by means of which he had raised an army; that Fras. Sekinghen was in his service, and his ambassadors no longer spoke of peace or abstinence of war, and had shown him no writings or powers; that this might be feigned for the better accomplishment of their purpose; and that a truce or abstinence would be greatly to the profit of Francis, for at its expiration Charles would find himself in poverty. Answered that their stay would be useless, if the other ambassadors had no power to treat for a peace, for Francis' affairs were such that he had less need of it than Charles; that as Charles was the infringer of the treaties, Henry was bound to assist France; that an abstinence or truce would damage Francis, owing to his large forces in Milan, Guyenne, and elsewhere, and his readiness for immediate war while the King Catholic holds Naples and Navarre. His expenses, which have been greater than those of Charles, would thus be lost. As to the six weeks' abstinence, it would be no use, for the time would be passed before the heralds had proclaimed it in the necessary places. Showed him at this point Francis' letters dated Commarien, 29th ult., and told him peace would be much easier to conclude than truce, and the conclusion would be short, if the other party demanded only what was reasonable, as Francis did, but that they wished for a truce while waiting for the succors of the empire. Wolsey, however, always answered to the same tune, that he wished to make a truce, which would be to the profit of Francis; that the succour from Almain was nothing; that he was very glad the French affairs were in such good order, for it would give the others alarm, and make them more conformable. He said he had warned Francis eight months ago of the trick the Pope had played him, and that the Pope had offered him 50,000 cr. to let things take their course without interfering. He desired them to meet the Flemish ambassadors tomorrow, and see if they had anything more to propose. Said it would be right first to arrange the order of sitting (l'assiette), which Francis left entirely to Wolsey. Wolsey said he saw no other expedient at present but that the Flemings should be the first to arrive, and for us to find them seated; so that as they had preoccupied the place, we should pretend not to notice it. Thought this would do very well if at the second meeting they should be allowed to take the right hand, and be seated when the Imperialists arrived. "No," said Wolsey, "I will have you seated indiscriminately, so that it shall not appear who is first or last." Desired him to arrange so at the first sitting, but he said he could not. On consideration, thought it best not to insist on the point, as it might cause reports to be spread that they had hindered the meeting; and so left it to Wolsey without expressing either agreement or dissent. Think the reason he makes this arrangement is that the Catholic king is king of the Romans elect, and has full imperial administration by his golden bull, without confirmation or coronation. The Pope also, in acknowledging him Emperor, has dispensed with his oath. Hear on good authority that the other party wish for neither truce nor peace, which will give Wolsey an excuse for going to Bruges to the King Catholic; in which case Francis must consider what is to be done, if he attempt to play false. Have heard also that Charles has been so enraged at certain words said to have been spoken of him by Francis, that he is angry with every one who mentions peace, and that the ambassadors on their way said they had no charge to treat of anything with France. Wish to know, if Wolsey goes to Bruges, and desires them to wait for him, whether they shall wait or return. If the latter, he may take it for a rupture, and make some treaty with Charles.
	Wolsey told them that on Friday some sailors from Tresport had taken several English ships at the mouth of the Thames, that Francis delays the payment of the 50,000 fr., and that on Sunday a servant of De la Bastie was found measuring the walls with a plumb line, for which he has been arrested. De la Bastie told the Cardinal he was an Irishman, and had only been in his service eight days, having been sent to him by a gentleman of the king of England, and wished him to be tortured that the truth might be known. It has since been found that he was fishing from the wall, and used a lead to sink the bait. By appearance and in words, Wolsey is favorable to Francis. Chabannes hears from Flanders that the people have granted Charles 150,000 fr., and those of Artois 50,000 fr., payable in two months. It is quite true there are 20,000 lanzknechts, and some cavalry, in bad order. Calais, 5 Aug.
	Fr.
5 Aug. Vit. B. IV. 135. B. M.	1468. [CAMPEGGIO to WOLSEY.]
	All are in great expectation, hearing yesterday of Wolsey's crossing. The papal forces, although under arms, have yet done nothing. The imperial troops which had collected at Bologna, on the 24th marched to Parma. They are in strong force. The marquis of Mantua and Prosper Colonna will have under them 30,000 men. It is reported that the French have thrown a bridge over the Po, near Cremona, which has been thrown down by a thunderstorm, with the palace of Lescaut, the governor there, whose cook was killed by lightning. Had already written of the injury done to the fortress at Milan. The populace consider it an omen of the fall of the French. It is thought they would have evacuated Italy, especially after the blow they received in Navarre. All now rests with England to augment these victories, or demand peace from the French on any condition. Rome, 5 Aug. 1521. Signature burnt.
	Lat., mutilated, pp. 2. Add. in modern hand.
6 Aug. Calig. D. VIII. 86. B. M.	1469. [FITZWILLIAM to WOLSEY.]
	Yesterday the French king told me that he heard you would go to the Emperor at Gaunt or elsewhere, when you had finished the matters you have to treat of at Calais; that it was said in Flanders you would take a tru[ce] at Calais for a time, but that, notwithstanding, Capt. Francisco would invade Burgundy, and the Emperor would say he was merely his pensioner, and could no more prevent him than Francis could prevent De la Marche from invading his dominions. If he comes, he will find 20,000 men ready to receive him.
	My Lady showed me that the Spanish rebels are stronger than ever. They have taken the king of Naples' son out of prison, and made him their captain.
	After leaving the King, Robert Tete told me the King said he did not believe you would go to Gaunt, but, whether you did or no, his men should go no further than Calais, and so he bade me tell you. I hope you have sent for me to come to you, for three of my servants are sick, and I know not how to send to you from time to time. Enclose a cipher with other news. Awcton, 6 Aug. Signature lost.
	P. 1, mutilated.
Calig. D. VIII. 113. B. M.	1470. [FITZWILLIAM to WOLSEY.]
	"Also, I assure your grace, here be the greatest shift made for money that hath been seen, for the King borrows of every man that hath any, and if any man refuse to lend he shall be so punished that all other shall take ensample by him, and also offers land to be sold; insomuch that the governors of the church of this town of Oton (Auken) have bought as much as they have paid 2,600 cr. for. This I know is of a truth, for mine host, who is one of the chiefest governors of the said church, showed it me. And I assure your grace a man would pity to see how this duchy of Burgundy is pilled; and in case your grace make not peace at this time, and if the Emperor come into these parts, ye shall see a great part of this country revolt against the Frenchmen; for I hear them speak very mistely, and I cannot blame them, for they eat up all they have, to their shirts; and, Sir, by that I perceive by common bruit, I never saw men more afraid of war than they be, nor gladder than they be when they hear any comfort of peace, and that is in manner universally.
	"Also, Sir, I will not write this article to be of a truth; howbeit it was showed me within these two days, by a person that hath showed me things aforetime which I have found true, that the cause for why the King went to Langers was this: it was said the Emperor's folks had or would have laid siege to Mesencourt and Jamais, both at once; and the King would assemble suddenly all his men, and with great diligence come and raise one of the said sieges, but I hear say now that the Emperor's folks be so strong that he will not meddle with them."
	Hol., cipher, undeciphered.
6 Aug. R. O.	1471. The NUNCIO in HUNGARY to the POPE.
	1. Your Holiness will see the news from Varadin by letters from the archbishop of Kolocza (Colocensis). The bishop of Bosnia arrived here from the Archbishop, and stated that on Sunday, 15th July, about the first hour, the Turks attacked the castle and a ford at the same time. The defenders killed more than 1,000 janissaries, as they say. Those at the ford, though they had no more than 40 small ships, which they call "nazadas," about 1,000 horse and 3,000 rustics, sunk one great Turkish ship, and killed many of their men. Only eight of little importance were lost by us. Almericus Zibacha, who brought your brief, had his horse killed. The battle was kept up on both sides till night. During the night the archbishop of Kolocza resolved to abandon the ford of Varadin, and retreat to another, two miles off, seeing that with so few ships they could not resist the Turkish fleet, which consisted of 100 ships like ours, 23 galleys and other vessels. The Archbishop is at Baccia, with a few people, and resists the enemy as well as he can.
	On the Monday following the Turks retired from the castle, so that our men could water at the Danube. On Tuesday another attack was made, the Turks thinking they would easily succeed, on account of the lowness of the walls; but after fighting all day they were driven off, and many of the janissaries killed. On Wednesday they began to batter the town on four sides, by night and day. Fears the event, as the castle is weak. The archbishop of Kolocza thinks it can be held for eight or ten days, and asks the King for 10,000 men, with whom he will attack the Turkish navy, take the ford and succor the besieged. Arrangements are now made for sending assistance. When the ford had been lost, the Turks burnt the fort at Futachum, and several other towns across the Danube. Are in much fear for Petra Varadin, as the King cannot succor it, having neither ships nor infantry, except what your Holiness sent. Everything between the Save and Drave must be considered as lost. The King will make a stand at the Drave, and perhaps protect the ford, which will be difficult, considering his plans and his poverty. Have paid the infantry of your Holiness for a month and half, and agreed to pay them the same amount in Buda. They number 5,000 foot and 200 horse.
	Lat., pp. 2.
R. O.	2. Copy of the letters of baron de Burgio, nuncio at Buda, 5 Aug.
	Wrote on the 3rd instant of the taking of Petra Varadin, on the banks of the Danube. When the Turks had taken the castle by a mine, the garrison fought in the courtyard until the blood of Turks and christians reached to their knees. Ninety alone escaped into the belfry of the church, the only building which was uninjured. As they resolved to defend themselves to the death, the Turks sent them unhurt to the archbishop of Kolocza, but cut off the heads of the wounded, and flung them into the Danube. At the same time they stormed and took Vylac, a fort about twice the size of Petra Varadin, about four Hungarian miles distant from it. 600 soldiers only were in it, 300 belonging to your Holiness. What he will do next is uncertain. It will be some days before the King can join his army. It is reported that he intends to go to Tolna, and defend the passage of the Drave. If unsuccessful there, he will retreat to Illyria, because, the bishop of Zagrab and the bann of Croatia being faithful to him, he will not be afraid of treachery, and the province contains many strong places. If he do this, I know not what I shall do, but hope for orders from you by the first courier I sent. The archbishop of Kolocza has assembled 4,000 cavalry, who have sworn to die rather than disband or retreat; but the King has advised them to change their purpose, and fight only where they will be of service. Of 500 horsemen who crossed the Danube to attack the Turks, part have been taken and part killed. The Queen is still at Buda, and no plans are fixed for her departure. Expects she will not be able to leave when she wishes.
	P.S.—One of the 90 who escaped from Petra Varadin has arrived here, and narrated the whole affair. He says they did not surrender, but that some of the Turkish officers saved them from the multitude. The Turk says he wishes to take the kingdom, and will not retire until he has fought with the King. Among the said 90 there are some of your Holiness's infantry, and I have given them a garment each on account of their valor. It is said that Vylac is taken and burnt. The 500 horse who were thought to have been destroyed have returned, with the loss of only 25 or 30 of their number. The archbishop of Kolocza and Bacchia, who was the chaplain of the King in Syrmium, desires a new office and bishopric, saying that Syrmium no longer belongs to the King, and he has lost the revenue of Bacchia.
	6 Aug., Buda. News came last night of the loss of Vylac, Athia, Zatha, and all the fortresses as far as Erdend, which is a mile from the Drave. The King is now setting off to defend the Drave, and asks the Queen to send some Viennese artillery. He has written to know if I can send him any money. Perhaps it would be as well to give him the little that remains, not because he can do any good with it, but because it is only a small sum, and he is in such necessity. Will act according to your letters.
	Lat., pp. 3. Endd.
6 Aug. R. O.	1472. LETTERS from BUDA.
	After his last letters, on Friday the 27th ult., although some say it was Wednesday, the Turks attacked six or seven times the castle of Petra Waradin, and were repulsed with great loss. Their corpses filled the ditches. The Hungarians could not bear the stench. Afterwards the Sultan undermined the walls, and blew them up with gunpowder. Of 1,000 Hungarians in the castle 100 only escaped to a small rock, who afterwards surrendered on condition of their lives. The Turk then attacked Vylac, where the body of St. John de Capistrano is buried. The King is at Tolona collecting forces. Is uncertain of the result. All the nobles and prelates are with the King. Every 100 peasants have to furnish 20 horses. Had reinforcements been sent in time, Petra Waradin might have been saved. Buda, 6 Aug.
	Lat., p. 1. Endd.
7 Aug. Galba, B. VII. 92. B. M. St. P. I. 34.	1473. PACE to [WOLSEY].
	The King this day received your two letters, dated Calais, the 4th with extracts of news from Rome, Bologna and Sir Thos. Spinelly. By one letter he understands your communications with the Emperor's ambassadors for his reimbursement of all such sums as he may lose if he break with France, and that you hope to secure for him 40,000 mks., instead of 16,000l., now paid; and that the ambassadors consented to reform their commissions, that they might treat upon the premises. The King is much pleased that the ambassadors showed themselves so desirous of the alliance and the marriage with my lady Princess, and has taken note of the manifest breach of amity by the French king, as shown in his letters to the count of Carpi, which he thinks must be kept, that he may break with the French king when he pleases, and save his honor, and also discharge his conscience to God. The King approves of the reception of the French ambassadors at Calais, and hopes to hear how they agree with the Emperor's. He commends your wisdom that you will not depart from Calais until you have concluded all his affairs with the Emperor. As to Sir Wm. Sandys he has told you his mind by my last letters, to which he awaits your answer. He agrees with you about keeping my lord Marquis, my lord Steward and my lord Chamberlain at home, and leaves to your wisdom, in case the 6,000 archers be sent, to proceed with the Emperor, as you propose, and see that the King's money is not spent in vain. If you go to prepare a place for the King in his hereditary kingdom, he will follow at time convenient.
	As to your other letters, the King understands the order you have taken for redress in the matter of the engagement between the French and Spaniards at the mouth of the Thames, and the taking of the Spanish ship laden with English goods. The King is very angry at the presumption of the French, and is determined to have satisfaction, especially as the French lately misconducted themselves in a like manner in his ports, as mentioned in my former letters. By the extracts of news, the King perceives that great war is toward, and that the French king is "at a great fardredeal." "Wretyn at [Okin]ge, 7 Aug., 12 at night."
	The King has ordered two great harts, of those he has killed himself, to be baked and sent to you.
	Hol., pp. 5.
Calig. E. II. (16). B. M. St. P. I. 31. Strype's Mem. I. 52.	1474. [WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.]
	By Pace's letters dated Windsor, 4th inst., perceives that the King is satisfied with the arrangements for the 6,000 archers for keeping the town of Calais, but proposes that the earl of Essex, for his hardiness, should be appointed their commander rather than Sir Will. Sands. Wolsey thinks that an earl will be more costly; that as the King's archers will be joined with the Emperor's, there will be no danger to Calais from the French. Sir Randolph Brereton, with the other knights, will be sufficient to replace the knights of Kent. Thinks the year too far advanced to make preparations for another army. Strongly recommends that letters should be sent immediately; that the archers be levied without further delay, and that their numbers be increased to avoid casualties. Had placed Sir Richard Sacheverell in the book to be treasurer [of the] wars, both for his wisdom, and "for that betwixt the lord Hastings and him a good number of archers might be provided."
	Draft, in Ruthal's hand, mutilated, pp. 2.
7 Aug. Galba, B. VII. 95. B. M.	1475. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
	Understands by his letters of the 5th the zeal he bears for the union of the King and himself. Is determined to follow out what he has taken in hand, and go thither (d'y aller) in person. You have always told me that you would apprise me of certain things that no man should know, except the King, you and me, and for my part I have told you I will show you the bottom of my heart. I am determined to be guided entirely by your counsel, and but for this I should have been already with my army. Delay is injurious to my affairs, which are now gone so far that I cannot retract. Beg you will be at Bruges by Sunday next, till which day I shall expect you, and I doubt not we shall have finished in two or three days, for you and I will do more in a day than my ambassadors will in a month. If you will not come on that day, but wish to go further and see my camp, I will show you my army; so you will see that I do not intend to sleep. Escloz lez Bruges, 7 Aug. Signed.
	Fr., pp. 3, mutilated. Add.: A mons. le Cardinal d'York, legat, primat, et lieutenant general d'Angleterre.
7 Aug. Vesp. F. I. 73. B. M.	1476. LEWIS II. OF HUNGARY to WOLSEY.
	Credentials for Hieronymus Balbus. Theth, 7 Aug. 1521. Signed. P. 1. Add.
8 Aug. Vit. B. IV. 136. B. M.	1477. CLERK to [WOLSEY].
	Received his letters of the 25th June on the 8th July, and on the 9th dispatched a courier to Wolsey in answer. Has written twice since, but there is such intercepting of couriers that he fears his letters have miscarried. The Pope has received a lamentable letter from the king of Hungary, stating that he is sore oppressed by the Turk, who has a great army on his confines, and will probably take one of his strongest castles, and shortly after the rest, unless he be succored. At this news the Pope is greatly abashed, but continues in the same purpose against the French, saying that no expedition can be made against the Turk till the French be brought into such case that they dare not stir, and that "he will spend his mitre, but he will have them out of Italy." The lord Prosper Columna, chief conductor of the Pope's camp, is now between Modena and Reggio. By the middle of this month the Pope will have there 1,500 men-at-arms and 10,000 foot, besides 6,000 lanceknights, which the Emperor has promised to send. It is said that all the Frenchmen in the duchy of Milan do not exceed 500 men-of-arms, and intend to withdraw nearer to the chief towns, Milan and Pavia. For surer passage they have made two new bridges over the Po, which have been struck down by a tempest of hail and thunder; "so that these men think verily here that God fighteth for them."
	On 27 July the certainty of the last overthrow of the French in Navarre came to the knowledge of the Emperor's ambassadors, who made "many fires and solemn triumphs, as blowing of pipes and trumpets, and shooting of guns," at Rome. The Pope made no open demonstration. The French king has required of the Venetians the men-of-arms which they have in Brescia. They refused, as the Emperor may invade them, but offered him a large sum of money. "Monsior de lo Stoo, who is one of the head rulers of Milan, with divers others, have taken away and interrupted a certain liberty, the which the Pope's holiness had, in selling of salt." For this and other attemptats in withholding the fruits of the Church from divers beneficed men, adherents of the Pope, his Holiness has sent out monitories, and fulminated censures against them.
	The French king, on account of pretended injuries, has detained all the Florentine merchants in his realm, and confiscated their goods; and the Pope, in retaliation, has taken surety of all Milanese and Genoese merchants to the value of their substance. News is come that the French king, pretending the said seizure was done by his officers without his knowledge, has revoked it, and only bound the merchants to be forthcoming.
	"My lord of Armagh is translated to the archbishopric of Thebe, and his bulls of Carlisle been sped and sent him by this corrar; and albeit the world be very hard here," yet for Wolsey's sake he has release of 275 ducats. "The whole expedition of his bulls of translation and of Carlisle, with the retention of his other benefices," amounts to 1,790 ducats. "We have word here of your arrival to Calais." Rome, 8 Aug.
	Hol., cipher (except last paragraph), deciphered in margin in modern hand; pp. 7.
8 Aug. Le Glay, II. 540.	1478. FRENCH AMBASSADORS at CALAIS to FRANCIS I.
	Account of the conference the day before.
	The ambassadors of the Pope and Flanders were at the bottom of the right-hand side, the French at the bottom of the left-hand side, and the Venetian ambassador after them. No others were present, except some of the king of England's council. Speech of the Nuncio, followed by the ambassadors of Flanders. The French chancellor praises the pacific intentions of his master; but thinks it of no use to continue the conference, as their opponents have no powers. At the close the Cardinal stated that he intended to go to the King Catholic at Bruges to persuade him to agree to a truce or peace, and asked the French ambassadors to wait till he returned. He would not return till he had accomplished this object; and if he did not succeed, his master would declare for France. Calais, 8 Aug.
	Fr.
Vit. B. XX. 239. B. M.	1479. [WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.]
	"And surely to appoint or conclude upon that matter it requireth right [mature] and good deliberation, which without personal communica[tion can]not be firmly established for your honor and surety, whereunto [I to] my best power shall take special regard. And this, Sir, albeit the books f[or the] al[liance] and indemnity were put in good order, yet in the sums for the dote joynt ... was the variance, which I hope by the help of God shall be brought to the desire[d end]," either by the Emperor's answer and reso[lution], which is hourly expected, or at my coming to his presence. Will not leave this town till the books of alliance and indemn[ity] are perfected and signed by the Emperor's ambassadors. Finds no difficulty with any of them but the Chancellor, who sticks to his own opinion, and pretends that no other ambassador has any knowledge of the Emperor's intent; at which the lord Barges (Berghes) and the others are ill content, thinking he "more demoryth in ceremonies than substance." Being informed of this change on the part of the Emperor's ambassadors, though he had sent out his "harbygers," and provided his carriages to take his "stuff" to Bruges, Wolsey caused his wagons and carriages to be discharged till a more towardly answer came from the Emperor. To prevent the French ambassadors forming any suspicion from this delay in his journey, Wolsey called them to him, and told them, "for a colour," how the Chancellor was opposed to peace, that it was he who had been the cause of the "bruleryes" in Spain, Italy, Almayn and these Low Countries against the French king, not for his master's honor, but for the advancement of his own authority in Italy, his native country; to remedy which Wolsey had put off his journey till he had more satisfactory answer from the Emperor. With this explanation they appeared quite satisfied.
	Would not consent to treat upon the third book, touching the straiter conjunction and aid to be given to the Emperor by England, and the time when Henry should enter the war against France, until he had spoken with the Emperor, "and perfectly understood his foundation for continuance of his wars, in avoidin[g] the manifold dangers and inconvenients that may thereof ensue; for if I may see his puyssan[ce] well put in ordre, and treasure convenient to ma[nage] the same, then your ayde may be determined to be sent unto [him], as the case shall require, to be participat of hys vict[ories] *** the honor and suerties of their maister ... gete thank they woll oftyn tymes make demonstration of difficulties and ambiguities; thow they in the end will relinquish the same, and condescend to reason."
	Draft, in Ruthal's hand, mutilated, pp. 2.
Calig. E. III. 7 b. B. M.	1480. [WOLSEY to HENRY VIII.]
	*** "would rather than ... [o]nly to move and persuade him to peace or ... some equal and indifferent way for pacify[ing] ... yng the said French ambassadors, that inasmuch as they said that they were ... sid na instruct to condescend to such treaties of peace tha[t] ... pe wrote to the King their master for the attaining of more and ... [th]at purpose, which they promised to do. And surely, Sir, with this determination [of mine] to resort to the Emperor they were marvellously well contented, not suspec[ting aught, but] surely believing that the cause of my going thither was to persuade [the Emperor to a] peace. [And] thus for that time the said ambassadors departed from me. And inasmuch as I had received letters from the Emperor responsives t[o such thi]ngs as I directed to him, [a co]pie of which letters ye shall receive herein enclosed, wherein, amongst other things, he desired me to accele[rate my journe]y towards him, I forthwith sent for the Emperor's ambassadors to perfect the books dy ... marriage and your indemnity. And albeit they in effect were before ag[reed upon the] said books, yet the Chancellor at that time made difficulty in subst ... ayn, demanding other novelties that never were spoken of before that [time, as, to h]ave the deliverance of my lady Princess your daughter in their hands a[s soon as] she should be seven years of age. Of which sudden alteration I could n[ot but marvel], remembering the unreasonableness thereof, whereby many great in[conveniences might en]sew by repudiation, violation or disparaging of her in some other ma[nner, inasm]och as parilitie oweth to be regarded among princes, and that no equiva[lent] ... could be devised in this case, unless they would deliver Flanders [and] the [Lo]w Countries into the King's hands to be kept by his soldiers and ... [to his] use ... at their proper costs and charges. I said that if those or greater bonds [were not given for great]er surety, it were against all reason she should be delivered by[fore the s]olemnisation [of] the marriage. And so, passing over that matter for the time, w[e came to the] reading of the books devised for the marriage. And forasmuch as ther[e are vo]yde places left in the book for the assignation of my lady Princess's jointure and dower, I demanded dominions, lands and tenements to be assigned to her, part in [the parts] of Flanders, and part in Spain, to the yearly value of 20,000 marks; [which they] thought over-large, considering that I would not agree to give unto thEmp[eror in] dote more than 100,000 marks. And inasmuch as it is accustomable [for] the dote to be proportioned after the rate of the tenth part of the dower, [and] that 20,000 mks. was far above the said tenth part, they made difficulty ... thereunto; howbeit I caused the sum of 100,000 mks. by your grace to be yeve[n] * * * ... expedient to send your ... cion, therefore in avoiding all uncertain[ty] ... such diligence be used in the preparation of ... may be in prompt areadiness to serve for all purposes ... whereunto I beseech your grace to take special regard ... counsayle to lachesse no time therein."
	Draft in Ruthal's hand, mutilated, pp. 2.
9 Aug. Galba, B. VI. 196. B. M.	1481. CHARLES V. to WOLSEY.
	Perceives from the letters of his ambassadors that Wolsey and they cannot agree. It will be necessary that they understand each other's intentions, which for his part he would not declare to any one but Wolsey. As Wolsey had intimated that he would propose an abstinence of war (knowing that the imperial ambassadors would refuse, as they have done, as a pretext for going to the Emperor), Charles has been waiting till now, to his great loss, and expects him every day at Bruges. To go and send so frequently creates great delay. Affairs require despatch, and this fine opportunity must not be lost. Hopes to have an answer from him tomorrow. Bruges, Saturday, 9 Aug. (fn. 1)
	P.S. in his own hand.—Being a bad clerk (mauves secretaire) has not written the above in his own hand, but hopes Wolsey will regard it as if it were his own, and come to him. Signed and sealed.
	Fr., pp. 3.
	"Mons. le cardinal d'York, legat, primat et lieutenant general d'Angleterre."
9 Aug. Galba, B. VII. 97. B. M.	1482. SPINELLY to WOLSEY.
	Wrote last on the 4th, from Ghent. The Emperor came to this town last night, and expressed the greatest desire that Wolsey should come here shortly, saying one hour now is worth 100 at another time, and that he could not sufficiently reward him for his diligence in crossing in such dangerous weather. Bullion was taken by assault, as he wrote yesterday to Wingfield to tell Wolsey. Nassau is lodged in the French ground, and news is shortly expected of his success.
	News came from Rome this morning, of the 26th, of the detention of all Frenchmen, Genoese and Milanese by the Pope's command. Prospero Colonna, with the Pope's army, kept the field between Reggio and Parma. On the arrival of the Neapolitan men-at-arms he will invade Milan. Florence has granted an extraordinary aid to the Pope of 150,000 ducats. The Venetians, seeing no advantage on the French side, take no decided part, and let the Emperor's posts pass free. The Belzers have advices of the 28th from Basle, that, notwithstanding the corruption of the French, the Swiss cannot be induced to assist them. As soon as the crowns of gold are delivered "the pleasure is forgotten," and it is believed they will take money on both sides, and remain at home. Francis Seken was in Luxembourg, twelve leagues from Tyenvylla. Never was better force assembled. Was told by the bishop of Utrecht, a good Burgundian, well disposed to England, that one cause why Wolsey delayed coming hither was, that his horses were still beyond sea, and that he would rather have sent his own than that time should be lost; adding that the French, with their lies, abuse the world. The 6,000 lanceknights raised at the Pope's request in Tyrol, were about Trent, and have by this time entered Italy. Bruges, 9 Aug. 1521.
	Lord Sevenberg is dead at Spires on his way to the Swiss.
	Hol., mutilated, pp. 3. Add.
9 Aug. R. O.	1483. SIR WILLIAM CONSTABLE the Elder to LORD DARCY.
	It is thought the bishop of Armawghecayne (Armagh) and Carlisle, Sir Thomas Nevyle, Sir Andrew Windsor, and others, the King's commissioners, will be with Darcy "on our Lady's even the Assumption next, and right so from thenceforth northward, with your lordship as principal in the said commission." As he is driven to speak with the bishop touching variances between his brother-in-law Arden, the tenants of Dryffeld, and himself as steward of Dryffeld, prays Darcy to inform him of "their sure being with you as before," and also of "their abode and departure." Desires to be recommended to my Lady, Darcy's wife, and to "my young lady." St. Lawrence's even. Signed and sealed.
	P. 1. Add.. Endd.: Sir Wm. Constable's letter the elder kt. to my lord, in August anno 13.
10 Aug. Nero, B. III. 71. B. M.	1484. ERIC ABP. OF DRONTHEIM (fn. 2) to WOLSEY.
	Credence in behalf of Melchior Johannes. Ex Trajecto, day of St. Laurence the Martyr, 1521. Signed.
	P. 1. Thomæ Cardinali, &c. legato.
10 Aug. R. O.	1485. CHARLES V.
	Copy of a portion of the treaty of Noyon for the marriage of Louise, daughter of Francis I., with Charles the King Catholic. [See Dumont, iv. 225.] Authenticated by Gedoyn, Calais, 10 Aug. 1521.
	Fr., pp. 13. Endd.: Articuli et Tractatus de Noyon.