Venice: July 1526 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 3, 1520-1526. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1869.

Citation:

'Venice: July 1526', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 3, 1520-1526, ed. Rawdon Brown( London, 1869), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol3/pp577-591 [accessed 25 November 2024].

July 1526



1526. July 1. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1336. The Doge and College to Gaspaeo Spinelli, Venetian Secretary in England.
	To tell Cardinal Wolsey that the Signory, having heard his right rev. Lordship's intention, have desired the Venetian ambassador with the Emperor, in case the Legate and the English and French ambassadors take leave of him, to do the like.
	After the capture of Lodi the Papal army crossed the Po on the 26th, and joined the Signory's army the same day. They have advanced towards Milan. By the last letters the two armies were at Marignano, and purposed approaching yet nearer to Milan, in which city the Imperialists seem to intend fortifying themselves, especially in the direction of the castle. Will let him know what happens, for communication to the King and Cardinal.
	Glad to hear of the good offices performed by the Papal Nuncio in London, expressive of the indissoluble union between the Pope and the Signory. To notify to Gambara the Signory's devotion to his Holiness.
	[Italian.]
July 1. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. pp. 19, 20.	1337. Marco Foscari to the Doge and Signory.
	On receiving the Signory's letters with the copy of those from France, and the form of publication of the league, went to the Pope, requesting the ceremony might be performed on Thursday. His Holiness said he would celebrate it on Sunday, as it was not possible to do so before, it being requisite to examine the form, and add a few words without changing the substance, and also to consider in what way the King of England should be mentioned.
	The Pope will perform the ceremony pompously, and will have the proclamation printed throughout the Papal towns. Time is also required for the person who will deliver the customary oration concerning the league.
	Rome, 1st July. Registered by Sanuto, 4th July.
	[Italian.]
July 3. Senato Mar, v. xxi. p. 17.	1338. Decree of the Senate.
	As the despatch of the noble Marco Antonio Venier, ambassador elect to the King of England, should not be delayed,—
	Put to the ballot, that as subsidy for four months, at the rate of 140 golden ducats per month, the said ambassador do receive in all 560 golden ducats. Also, for the purchase of horses (at the rate of six livres and four “soldi” per ducat)	150 ducats.
	As a gift for the secretary	30 ”
	For coverings and trunks	30 ”
	For two couriers, 20 ducats each	40 ”
	Ayes, 192. Noes, 10. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian, 10 lines.]
July 4. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 198.	1339. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	Had spoken to the French ambassador [Giovanni Gioachino di Passano], who told him he had treated with the King concerning the mutual obligation for neither party to make agreement with the Emperor unless he release the French princes for a ransom of a million of gold, and repay the money lent to him by the King of England. Cardinal Wolsey had given him a schedule of the remodelled clauses, in case the King of England join the league. The Cardinal stating that mandates would be needed to resettle the clauses, and Giovanni Gioachino had arranged many of the necessary corrections in the margin. Went with the Papal Nuncio to Cardinal Wolsey, and advocated the entry of the King into the league. The Cardinal, said the King would never join until after communication with the Emperor, and that some of the articles required alteration.
	When the Cardinal asked about the mandates, the Nuncio Gambara said he had the one from the Pope, and he (Spinelli) said he had only to assent and to include his Majesty in the league. The Cardinal rejoined, “Enough.”
	Then went to the French ambassador to acquaint him with what he had told the Cardinal about the mandates, which pleased him much. Will return to Giovanni Gioachino, who uses his best offices. The Bishop of Bath, ambassador to France, is on the point of departure; he is also commissioned to negotiate a marriage between the Princess of England and the most Christian King's second son, now a prisoner in Spain. (fn. 1)
	London, 4th July. Registered by Sanuto, 30th July.
	[Italian.]
July 7. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 34.	1340. Embassy to England.
	Motion made and carried in the Council of Ten and Junta, for the payment of certain moneys, as usual, for the despatch as ambassador to England of Ser Marco Antonio Venier, LL.D.
	[Italian.]
July 7. Parti Comuni, Consiglio X., v. ii. p. 39.	1341. Venetian Ambassador in England.
	Motion made in the Council of Ten and Junta no longer to delay the despatch of Marc' Antonio Venier, LL.D., ambassador intended for the King of England.
	Put to the ballot, that the treasurer of the Council, from the moneys of the limitation fund appointed for the ambassadors, do give said ambassador as subsidy for four months, at the rate of 140 golden ducats (fn. 2) per month, in all	560 golden ducats.
	Also, at the rate of 6 livres and 4 soldi per ducat—
	For the purchase of horses	150 ”
	As a gift for the secretary	30 ”
	For coverings and trunks	30 ”
	For two couriers, at the rate of 20 ducats each	40 ”
	On the; expiration of three months after his departure, viz., at the commencement of the fourth month, the said treasurer and his successors to pay from the aforesaid fund to the ambassador's agents in Venice 140 golden ducats monthly, so that he may always have one month's salary in advance, provided no loss be thus incurred by the Signory on account of exchanges.
	To defray his costs for couriers, should he need boats, escorts, and guides, to give him for that purpose 200 golden ducats, of which be he bound to give particular account, and should he require more, to give advice here, that such provision may be made as expedient.
	Ayes, 26. No, 1. Neutral, 1.
	Order made out for the treasurer of the Council and his successors.
	[Italian.]
July 7. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. pp. 180, 181.	1342. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	The King has received letters from the King of England, who had modified certain articles of the league. The most Christian King said:— “To this we would consent, provided once for all he declare himself against the Emperor, and that, without sending other ambassadors, he write to his present ambassador in Spain, to propose that his Imperial Majesty do release the French princes.”
	Ruport (sic), 7th July. Registered by Sanuto, 27th July.
	[Italian.]
July 8. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. pp. 42, 56.	1343. The Holy League.
	Religious ceremonies performed in Venice for the publication of 'the league on Sunday, the 8th of July 1526. Sumptuous decoration of St. Mark's Church; attendance there of the Doge, with the Papal Legate, the French ambassador, the Bishop of Bayeux, the English ambassador, Prothonotary Casal, the Milanese ambassador Taverna, the Ferrarese ambassador Jacopo Thebaldo, and the Mantuan ambassador Giovanni Battista de' Malatesti.
	Procession round St. Mark's square, and pageants exhibited by the religious confraternities.
	The “Scuola delta Misericordia” displayed 28 angels, bearing the arms of the powers forming the league— the Pope, France, England, and the Doge.
	The “Scuola delta Carità” sent forth five footmen (fanti) representing the patron saints of the confederates, followed by their attendants. There was St. Ambrose, signifying Milan, and the Duke behind him; St. Mark, representing Venice, followed by the Doge with the ducal bonnet on his head; St. George in armour, with the King behind him, was symbolical of England. These pageants made a very fine show. Then came one in the garb of a prophet, with a scroll in his hand, inscribed with the words,—
	“Si Deus pro nobis quis contra nos?”
	and he was followed by a Saul, with another motto.
	The “Scuola” of St. Rocco sent forth 13 prophets on foot, with as many admirable legends (ditti) relating to the league. Amongst them was Joshua, with the Doge's arms and the motto,—
	“Propter hoc tætatum est cor meum.”
	The motto of Milan was,—
	“Omnia quæcumque voluit Dominus fecit.”
	St. Mark's motto was,—
	“A Domino factum est istud.”
	That of England,—
	“Domine, in virtute tua lætabitur Rex.”
	France bore,—
	“Misericordias Domini in æterno cantabo.”
	The Pope's motto was,—
	“Confirma hoc Deus quod operatus est in nobis.”
	There was also a stage, with Noah sacrificing to God in praise of peace, when delivered from the deluge, with the dove and the olive branch in its beak, and the motto,—
	“Hoc est signum fæderis.”
	The Carmelite friars had two stages, on one of which were the the confederates, the Pope, the King of France, the King of England, the Doge of Venice, and the Duke of Milan; and all stood worshipping an image of the Virgin in Carmelite array, namely, a large open mantle, under which to receive them all.
	The friars of St. Stephen's (Austin's) represented, on a stage, a damsel on foot with the globe (mondo) in one hand, and in the other a wheel, which she turned with her right hand, representing Fortune.
	Another stage bore the Pope, with a mantle of cloth of gold and a handsome papal mitre, the Kings of France and England, the Doge with the ducal cap, and the Duke of Milan. Before the Pope, and in front, stood Italy despoiled, and the lion came and freed her.
	A third stage carried the Father Eternal, with a live dove over his head, bearing the Imperial crown aloft, in the act of crowning him.
	The friars of St. Francis appeared with their novices apparelled (vestiti) with four silver baskets in their hands, as usual, containing flowers, and inscribed with many apposite legends, amongst which, on one of the baskets, was the following,—
	“Pecunice omnia obediunt.”
	The friars of Sts. John and Paul represented the Pope on foot in a rochet, followed by the Kings of France and England, all preceded by their servants. Then came the Doge, with the ducal cap on his head, in armour, the image of our most serene prince, with a beard and gilt cuirass; the Duke of Milan following, also in armour.
	St. Mark's “Scuola” had a stage with a ship, at whose helm was St. Mark, and behind St. Mark was the serpent, the Duke of Milan's crest. On the sail were the arms of the Pope and of the Kings of England and France, which filled the sail. The ship was empty, and nearly capsized in coming down from the choir, but was kept back. To speak more correctly, the sail was the Pope; the body of the ship, the King of France; the mast, the King of England.
	St. John's “Scuola” had stages with two mountains in silver, behind each of which was an old woman. On the summit of one of the mountains was a legend, thus, “Venetia plena divitiis;” and on the other, “Hic Venetiis aurum et argentum”
	Then three horses were carried, their riders being the following three colleagues:—
	On one the Duke of Milan, preceded by a number of running footmen clad in silk and brocade.
	On another the King of England, with his Englishmen on foot in advance.
	On the third was the King of France, in like manner preceded by his Frenchmen on foot, all in very costly array.
	The inscriptions on the stages of the Minor Friars were as follows: — One stage bore St. Peter, the Pope, and the angel; St. Peter presenting the pastoral crozier to the Pope, and saying to him,—
	“Constanter pugna pro ovibus quæ vocem tuam audiunt, ut in pace sine injuria vivant.”
	Whereupon the Pope replies,—
	“Pastoris nomen mihi amplius non vindico, nisi hos rapaces lupos longius a stabulis propulsavero.”
	The angel then shows the Pope the cross, saying,—
	“In hoc signo vinces.”
	On another stage was St. Denis and the King of France, to whom St. Denis says,—
	“Triumphandum est tibi ut coronam hanc tuto possideas eja ! Age — rumpe moras — nocuit diferre paratis.”
	The King of France answers,—
	“Deo optimo maximo et tibi gratias, Dionisi, qui me servastis, ne gauderent inimici. En bella maxima bella ordior fugiant a facie gladii.”
	Another stage bore St. George and the King of England, whom St. George addressed thus,—
	“Cum bonis ambula et ceptis, Rex maxime, fave, Res tua nunc agitur — si sapis crede momenti.”
	The King replies,—
	“Gressus meos dirige in semitam mandatorum tuorum ut non confundar; dii votis aspirent.”
	On another stage was St. Ambrose, saying to his enemies—
	“O nimium ausi, fines repetite vestros alias moneo; Non capit cæsos Itala terra viros”
	To which the enemies make answer,—
	“Date fugiendi copiam: utinam domesticos liceat vidisse Penates”
	On another stage was St. Mark, addressing the ambassadors of the league thus,—
	“Quid petitis trepidi i”
	The Milanese ambassador replies,—
	“Perpetuum inter Venetos et Principes nostros fædus sanciri, et rebus Italian melius consultum sit, et nos omnes in pace sine injuria vivamus.”
	St. Mark rejoins,—
	“Nil timeatis—consilium, aurum polliceor; sunt omnia salva hoc duce; primos cupientem gressus sequimini.”
	The Cardinal Legate says,—
	“Si quantum Venetus vigor suos terruit hostes, nec consilium usque out aurum belli materia deficit; nunc potissimum Sanctum Marcum sperandum nobis est veteranum jam leonem, et se et socios non magis auro, quam sano consilio tub durum.”
	A land soldier and a sea soldier talking together say,—
	“Terra marique pugnamus, nil præsunt insidiæ.”
	Then there was a dialogue between Victory and Prudence. There was also Fortitude, but she had no inscription. The inscription of Prudence ran thus,—
	“Dic mihi, vivgo potens, geminis quo laberis alis ? Nobile cui donum laurea serta paras?”
The distich of Victory was as follows:—
“Accipe quæ rogitas; omnes his fozdere junctis Hostibus hate victis laurea serta ferent.”
Then there were the bearers of the baskets filled with silver vessels, and carrying the following inscriptions. The first,—
“Quisquis habet numos securd naviget aurâ, Fortunamque suo temperet arbitrio.”
The second,—
“Quod vis numis prcesentibus opta Et veniet; clausum possidet arca Jovem.”
The third,—
“Aurum belli materia.”
The fourth,—
“Per aurum victoria.”
The fifth,—
“Obediunt omnia pecuniae.”
The sixth,—
“Divitice se affluant, nolite timere.”
After the procession the decorations were removed immediately from every place, including such as were in front of the church, lest they should be injured by the sun.
The only personage in the palace was the cousin of the King of England, by name Reginald Pole. He is studying at Padua, and came hither to the house of the English ambassador to see this pageant, which was a very beautiful one.
[Italian.]
July 8. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 56.	1344. The Holy League.
	Account of reioicings for the league. The English ambassador [Prothonotary Casal], resident at San Giorgio Maggiore, made an illumination with lamps, and burnt a boat on the canal.
	[Italian.]
July 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 69.	1345. Letter to England.
	Motion made in the Senate, by the sages of the Council and the sages for the orders, for a reply to the letter from Gasparo Spinelli, secretary in England.
	Are content to modify the articles respecting the King of England, and have written to France that his Majesty and Cardinal Wolsey should be urged to join the league, praising the Cardinal greatly. To notify the publication of the league, and the mention of the King of England as its protector. Transmit advices from the camp.
	The motion was carried.
	Neutrals, 5.
	[Italian.]
July 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 69.	1346. The Holy League.
	This evening the bells were rung at St. Mark's, and the Legate and the French ambassador burnt bonfires, but the English ambassador did nothing.
	[Italian.]
July 10. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 41, tergo.	1347. The Doge and Senate to Marco Foscari, Ambassador in Rome.
	He will perceive what was written to them by their secretary in France concerning the proposals made by Cardinal Wolsey, to the effect that the league be bound not to desist until the Emperor acquit his debt to the King of England.
	Are of opinion the King of England's demands should be granted, provided he join the league; and they wish the Pope to use his influence, so that the annual rental of 30,000 ducats guaranteed to the King of England in the kingdom of Naples may be exchanged for the like sum in the duchy of Milan.
	Ayes, 196. Noes, 5. Neutral, 1.
	[Italian.]
July 10. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 43, tergo.	1348. The Doge and Senate to Gasparo Spinelli, Secretary in England.
	Have received his letters announcing what the Papal Nuncio said to him about his conference with Cardinal Wolsey concerning the clauses of the new league, which had been sent to him from France. Perceive his right reverend Lordship gave it to be understood that he did not think the clauses contained sufficient guarantee for payment of the Emperor's debt to the King, and therefore, before the entry of his Majesty into the league, it was necessary for the Pope and the Signory to send sufficient powers to England for the better modification of the treaty. Suppose the Cardinal will have made a similar announcement to him. Desire him to say that the State will not fail to do their best to gratify him. As they foresee how much repute and lustre will be added to the league by the accession of a King so great, so powerful, and so magnanimous, together with the most sage counsel and authority of his right reverend Lordship, will, therefore, not cease to exhort the Cardinal to induce the King to join the league as soon as possible. To expatiate hereon, and add that yesterday, after high mass, the league aforesaid was proclaimed.
	The Papalists have had important skirmishes with the Imperialists, whom the Signory's forces always repulsed to their disadvantage, so that the Venetians have advanced even to the walls of Milan, where they are quartered; and it is hoped that the undertaking will succeed.
	Have received notice that on the 7th instant the Papal and Venetian armies were under Milan and made a vigorous assault. They found the Imperialists in great force, determined to resist, having on the preceding day been reinforced with men and money by the Duke of Bourbon. Having raised certain platforms, the Imperialists battered the two armies, doing no slight damage to the infantry. The Signory's captain-general and the other commanders therefore decided upon a retreat, the two armies marching in good order, driving back some Imperial infantry who made a sally, and retiring to Marignano, where they halted for the benefit of the undertaking, to await the French and Swiss troops, which the Signory understands are on the point of entering Italy.
	Ayes, 134. Noes, 5. Neutrals, 2.
	[Italian.]
July 10. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 240.	1349. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	The French ambassador [Giovanni Gioachino di Passano] stipulated with the Cardinal the mutual obligation between England and France to the effect that the one was not to make any agreement with the Emperor without the consent of the other, and that even were the French princes released, France should not come to terms with the Emperor unless he acquitted his debt to the King of England. Giovanni Gioachino told him (Spinelli) that this would be of no detriment to the Italian league, about which it had been his wish to insert certain words, but Cardinal Wolsey refused, saying that he requires 30,000 ducats annual rental for the King and 10,000 for himself, to be derived from the Milanese, and not from the kingdom of Naples.
	Today (10 July) having received the Signory's missives of the 14th June, went to the Cardinal, and informed him of the great expense incurred by the Signory for the benefit of Italy, as counselled by the King of England and his right reverend Lordship, wherefore his Majesty should join the league, &c. Cardinal Wolsey replied,—
	“The King for his honour cannot join the league, neither ought he to do so (fn. 3) Our subjects have capital in Spain and elsewhere under the Emperor to the amount of four millions of gold. In the next place, it would be requisite to wage war and cross over to Calais at a cost exceeding 500,000 crowns; and were the King of England to become protector of the league, certain fresh clauses must be inserted, as his Majesty has ties with the Emperor. But on the arrival of the mandates he will negotiate.”
	The Papal Nuncio, Prothonotary Gambara, having received letters from Rome dated the 10th [June], urging the King to join the league, went also to Cardinal Wolsey, who replied ut supra, and said it was desirable that his Majesty should remain neutral for the present, and that he had already determined to send an ambassador to the Emperor to demand the release of the most Christian King's sons and would now send a gentleman post haste with letters to that effect, as the ambassador would be too long on the road. The Cardinal then said that first of all the articles of the league must be resettled, and that his King would be a good medium for negotiating the general peace. When asked by the Papal Nuncio what the King of England would contribute, the Cardinal answered, laughing, “We shall indeed give you nothing,” nor would he ever explain himself. He commended the reply made by the Signory to the Imperial ambassador about treating an agreement with Don Hugo de Monchada on his arrival at Milan, and insisted on knowing what assistance the league would give the King of England (he having to be its conservator) should his Majesty attack the Emperor.
	The Papal Nuncio spoke subsequently with Cardinal Wolsey apart, expatiating on the interest of the Church, the King of England being “ Defender of the Faith,” but could never elicit more than has been mentioned above.
	London, 10th July. Registered by Sanuto, 7th August.
	Note by Sanuto. — That these letters were staler than the others, which came through France.
	[Italian.]
July 11. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 68.	1350. The Holy League.
	Motion made in the Senate, by the sages of the Council and of the mainland, for a letter to the secretary in France, acquainting with the publication of the league with very great pomp, and giving the Signory's consent to the two clauses concerning the King of England.
	A letter was also written to Rome, consenting to the two clauses about the King of England, and to pay one-third of the cost of the 4,000 infantry. His Holiness will therefore write accordingly.
	[Italian.]
July 14. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 240.	1351. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	Sir Thomas More, his Majesty's secretary, has returned from France with the articles of the “mutual obligation” (mutua obligation); and the ambassador [Giovanni Gioachino ?] said he would sign the second draft [of the treaty], which the most Christian King might ratify subsequently, should he think fit.
	Returned with the Papal Nuncio to Cardinal Wolsey, and made the same demands as mentioned in the former letter, but his right rev. Lordship limited himself to general expressions, saying that the King insisted on repayment of the money due to him from the Emperor. Inquired the amount, and the Cardinal said, “Upwards of seven millions of gold,” though the Nuncio Gambara knows for certain that it does not exceed 280,000. He said further that there was an article in the league to the effect that, with regard to the coming of the Emperor into Italy, the allies should abide by the decision of the Pope and the Signory; and the Cardinal wished the King of England likewise to be mentioned. Rejoined that the Pope and the Signory had been mentioned because they were the most interested in the matter. Cardinal Wolsey disapproved the proposal with regard to endeavouring to include the Duke of Ferrara in the league, and to make him captain-general.
	The gentleman who was to go to Spain has not yet departed, still less the Bishop of Bath, ambassador elect to France.
	Nothing will be done. Sends a copy of the mandate demanded from the Signory, and of the articles of the league requiring revision. Considers it desirable to temporize and give fair hopes, lest the King and Cardinal change sides and join the Emperor.
	London, 14th July. Registered by Sanuto, 7th August.
	[Italian.]
July 15. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1352. The Doge and College to Gasparo Spinelli, Secretary in England.
	To press the King and Cardinal no longer to delay joining the league.
	The Papal and Venetian armies are at Marignano, expecting the Switzers. The Pope is more warmly inclined than ever towards the present undertaking, and spares no cost or anything else for its accomplishment. The Signory is acting in like manner. Nothing is wanting save the immediate adhesion to the league of the King of England. To do his utmost to effect this result.
	[Italian.]
July 16. Senato Terra, v. xxiv. p. 98.	1353. Embassy to England.
	Put to the ballot, that the noblemen, Sebastian Giustinian, Knight, and Lorenzo Bragadin, ambassadors to the most Christian King, may take with them silver utensils to the amount of 400 ducats each, at the Signory's risk, to be valued as usual by the new accountants' office; and so in like manner with regard to the noble Marc' Antonio Venier, LL.D., ambassador elect to the most Serene King of England.
	[Italian, 9 lines.]
July 16. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 102.	1354. Embassy to England.
	Motion made in the Senate for a “permit” authorizing Ser Marco Antonio Venier, LL.D., ambassador on his way to England, to take with him plate (arzenti) to the amount of 400 ducats at the Signory's risk.
	Ayes, 157. Noes, 2. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian.]
July 17. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 217.	1355. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	Encloses copy of a letter written by the King of England to the Emperor, and other writings for the Signory's inspection.
	London, 17th July. Registered by Sanuto, 3rd August.
	[Italian.]
July 18. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 238.	1356. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	Told by the Chancellor [Du Prat] that an ambassador from the Emperor [Don Inigo de Mendosa] on his way to England had come to the King [of France]; he is a Spaniard, and fell ill on the way. He was not aware of the conclusion of the league, having quitted the Imperial Court before it took place. He requested a safe-conduct to cross over to England. The King said there was no need for a safeconduct, and that he could go freely, notwithstanding which, orders have been given to stop him on the frontier. (fn. 4)
	Chateau . . . . . ., 18th July. Registered by Sanuto, 7th August.
	[Italian.]
July 18. Sanuto Diaries, v. xx. p. 128.	1357. Marco Foscari to the Doge and Signory.
	Told by the Pope that the castle of Milan is in very great danger, and that the Colonna faction has 7,000 infantry at S. Germano; so a diversion should be made by sending the army into the kingdom of Naples. Tomorrow therefore the Pope purposes despatching the Papal Auditor (fn. 5) post haste to France, and from thence to England, to urge the King to join the league. His Holiness will send him on galley board as far as Marseilles, that he may go quickly.
	Rome, 18th July. Registered by Sanuto, 20th July.
	[Italian.]
July 19. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 10.	1358. The Doge and College to Gasparo Spinelli, Secretary in England.
	Since their last of the 15th some 150 infantry sallied forth from Milan castle on the night of the 16th, who, having broken through the troops on guard in the trenches which surround the castle, forced a passage for about 500 persons, including themselves, women, pioneers, and lads, well nigh all of them, save a few, prostitutes, got through the trenches, and escaped. Understand that 100 of them have already reached the Venetian camp. The besieged were suffering from great scarcity of food; so, in order to hold out as long as possible, they determined to rid themselves of these supernumeraries, and are most anxiously expecting succour. Part of the 5,000 Switzers have already joined the allied armies, and part will arrive tomorrow or next day. The camp quits Marignano this morning, marching in such wise as to be near Milan on Saturday morning to succour the castle.
	The Duke of Bourbon and the other Imperial commanders are in Milan with upwards of 10,000 efficient troops, bent on defence, and insisting constantly on reinforcements of Lansquenets, which, it is said, the Archduke Ferdinand will send them in great numbers from several quarters; and in the event of their coming, the Imperialists, assisted by their forces in Cremona, Pavia, Alexandria, and other places of the Milanese, might take the field with a numerous army.
	Repeat their instructions to him to entreat the King and Cardinal most urgently to join the league forthwith.
	One thousand five hundred Lansquenets of those who sided with the peasants who were routed by the nobles having appeared on the borders of Cadore and Cividal, and requested passage through the Venetian territory on their way to the Valtellina, the Signory granted it, and they are already on the point of taking that road; so, if necessary, the State will he able to make use of them for the present war occurrences.
	The ambassador appointed to his Majesty is ready to depart.
	[Italian.]
July 20. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 47, tergo.	1359. Venetian Embassy to France.
	Commission from the Doge and Senate to Sebastian Giustinian and Lorenzo Bragadino, Venetian ambassadors on their way to France.
	To remind the most Christian King, and urge him to do all he can with the King of England, so that the latter no longer delay joining the confederacy.
	[Italian.]
July 21. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 50.	1360. The Doge and Senate to Marco Foscari, Ambassador at Rome.
	Are certain that his most Christian Majesty will come to the undertaking readily, and also approve of the Pope's sending the Nuncio [Sanga] (fn. 6) from France to England to urge the King to join the league.
	[Italian.]
July 24. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, V. li. p. 53.	1361. The Doge and Senate to the Venetian Secretary Sabadino in Switzerland.
	To urge the despatch of the safeconducts for the two Venetian ambassadors on their way to the most Christian King, and the other apart for the nobleman Marc' Antonio Venier, LL.D., appointed ambassador to the King of England, and who will depart immediately, as written by them to him (Sabadino) on the 13th inst.
	[Italian.]
July 24. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 53, tergo.	1362. The Doge and Senate to Andrea Rosso, Venetian Secretary in France.
	The Pope orders the Nuncio [Sanga], whom he is sending to the most Christian King, to proceed subsequently to England to urge the King to join the league, and to ascertain what he means to do for the benefit of the undertaking, he having been the first author of the league. To request his most Christian Majesty to do everything in his power to that effect.
	[Italian.]
July 24. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. ii. p. 56.	1363. The Doge and Senate to Gasparo Spinelli, Secretary in England.
	Having had no letters from him since those dated the 17th and 18th ult., repeat their instructions addressed to him in previous despatches.
	His Majesty's reverend ambassador resident at Venice [Protho-notary Casal] states that his King was not content that the assignment of the 30,000 ducats to be given him by the league in Italy, and likewise the 10,000 ducats for Cardinal Wolsey, should be made in the kingdom of Naples, but would prefer deriving the sum from the duchy of Milan; inquiring therefore the Signory's opinion, and how they purposed to obtain his debt from the Emperor. Cannot give a positive answer, being without advices from England. To declare that the State will be content and inclined to do whatever may prove to the satisfaction, honour, and benefit of his Majesty and his right reverend Lordship, being, sure that the rest of their confederates are of the same mind.
	The Papal and Venetian armies on the 19th advanced from Marignano to within a mile of Milan. Are advised today that 2,000 Papal and Venetian infantry have taken Monza and stormed the castle, in which were 200 foot soldiers. Although the place is not strong, it is an advantageous position, and detrimental to the Imperialists, who used it as a magazine for great part of the provisions on their way to Milan from the hill of Brianza (dal monte de Brianza).
	In the daily skirmishes the Imperialists have always been repulsed with loss by the Signory's forces. There are upwards of 10,000 able-bodied men in Milan preparing for defence, and reinforcements are expected from beyond the Alps.
	Ayes, 208. Noes, 2. Neutral, 1.
	[Italian.]
July 25. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 152.	1364. Embassy to England.
	Ser Marco Antonio Venier, LL.D., having resigned the post of State Attorney, Ser Anzolo Gabriel was elected in his stead.
	[Italian.]
July 27. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 273.	1365. Andrea Rosso to the Doge and Signory.
	With regard to the King's going to Lyons, the Chancellor told him this was not the moment for his Majesty so to do, lest he disappoint the King of England, who wishes to speak with him on the French side of the Channel; so he will go first to Paris. He will perform the obsequies of the Queen [Claude] there, and fulfil certain vows.
	Amboise, 27th July. Registered by Sanuto, 14th August.
	[Italian.]
July 27. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 273.	1366. The Holy League.
	The Milanese ambassador came into the College, and showed letters from his Duke with advices from England, in accordance with what was written to the Signory, viz., that the King will not join the league. He demands a revenue of 40,000 ducats in the Milanese between himself and the Cardinal, and wishes to reform the articles of the league.
	[Italian.]
1526. July 28. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 183.	1367. Letter to England.
	Motion made in the Senate for a letter to the secretary in England, with a copy of the articles of the league, desiring him to urge the King to join. For the secretary's instruction, inform him that Rosso, the secretary in France, writes that the King of England has made some addition to the clauses of the league relating to himself individually, to which the Signory will consent, provided he become a party to the league.
	Noes, 2.
	[Italian.]
July 28. Deliberazioni Senato Secreta, v. li. p. 59.	1368. The Doge and Senate to Gasparo Spinelli, Secretary in England.
	The castle of Milan has surrendered. By virtue of the capitulation the Duke and his followers went out of the castle on the 25th, and joined the allied armies, accompanied by the Count of Caiazzo and his company of 200 light horse.
	The Duke was met by the Signory's Captain-General and other commanders of the two armies, who accompanied him to his quarters.
	The Duke is much dejected on account of his long illness, and of the constant hardships and famine endured by the garrison. The commanders of both armies have dissuaded the Duke from going to Como and performing other acts in accordance with the capitulation, alleging he could ill trust the Imperialists. It seems, nevertheless, that his Excellency is inclined to take possession of Como at once, because he suspects the Imperialists.
	Have desired their commanders to promise him the State will do its utmost to re-establish him. Therefore, as their proveditor-general proposed to blockade the Imperialists in Milan, the Signory has approved this opinion. Expect the reinforcement of the men-at-arms from the most Christian King, and that of the Switzers, in four days at the furthest. Solicit the despatch of the others who are to be raised, and likewise the residue of the 40,000 ducats for the first instalment of pay. Desire this the more earnestly because D. Georgio Fronsperg, by order of the Archduke Ferdinand, is mustering a considerable body of Lansquenets near Trent to reinforce the Imperialists.
	To communicate this intelligence to the King and Cardinal, requesting them no longer to delay his Majesty's entry into the league.
	The Pope has sent a secretary, Zuan Baptista Sanga, to the most Christian King on board one of Doria's galleys to Marseilles, with orders to urge his Majesty to send with speed his men-at-arms and Switzers into Italy. Sanga, after performing this office in France, is to proceed to England to press the King to decide upon entering the league immediately. To watch for his arrival, and treat him in such form as expedient for the benefit of the league. By letters from their secretary in France, dated the 2nd instant, understand advices had been received from England, announcing that the King had resettled the articles of the league in such parts as related to himself. Should the King and Cardinal speak to him on the subject, to assure them that the State will always be well disposed towards whatever may be to his honour and satisfaction, and that such is the desire and intention of all the princes their confederates. Should the King and Cardinal inquire the Signory's opinion, to tell them that there had not been sufficient time to write and receive a reply, the State not having received any notice from him on the subject.
	Departure from Venice of the ambassador Venier.
	Ayes, 205. Noes, 2. Neutral, 1.
	[Italian.]
July 28. Navagero Despatches, Cicogna copy.	1369. Andrea Navagero to the Signort.
	The Count Palatine has told him so much about the disturbances in Germany and the progress made daily by the Lutherans, that the object of his mission seems rather to ask aid'of the Emperor than to give him hope of receiving assistance from Germany.
	Granada, 28th July 1526.
	[Italian.]
July 29. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 188.	1370. Embassy to England.
	Ser Marco Antonio Venier, LL.D., ambassador to the King of England, departed yesterday. He will go by way of Bergamo, and then through the Grisons to France.
	[Italian.]
July 30. Sanuto Diaries, v. xlii. p. 279.	1371. Gasparo Spinelli to the Doge and Signory.
	On the receipt of the Signory's letters went to Cardinal Wolsey and urged the Bang's entry into the league.
	The Cardinal said that his Majesty would not join it, and that first of all the eight clauses of the league must be settled.
	The Bishop of Bath, the English ambassador appointed to France, is going partly about matters for adjustment between the two Crowns, and partly to negotiate the marriage of the Princess [Mary] to the most Christian King's second son.
	The Bishop of Bath told him he would urge the most Christian King to send into Italy the subsidy to which he is bound by the treaty.
	To assist Hungary the King of England is sending thither 100,000 ducats. The abbot Don Inico de Mendoza is expected in London from Spain; and letters from the Lady Margaret in Flanders announce the rout of the armies under Milan, the news being: contained in letters from the Archduke [Ferdinand] dated 23rd July.
	London, 19th, 29th, and 30th July. Registered by Sanuto, 15th August.
	[Italian.]