|
May 1.
Greenwich. | 335. Same to same. Informing him that on last St. George's day
the French King had been elected a Knight of the Garter, and that
on the 18th of the present month the Marquis of Northampton, the
Bishop of Ely [Thomas Goodrich], and others are to go to France to
invest his Majesty with the insignia of the Order, and requesting
that he will remain to assist the deputation. [One page. Copy in
Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
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May 1.
Greenwich. | 336. King Edward VI. to Henry II., King of France. Intimating
to his Majesty his election as Knight of the Garter. [One page.
Copy in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
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May 5.
Angsburg. | 337. Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. News have come to
this Court that Prince Doria, having learnt by spies the intention
of Dragut Rey to pursue him, in hope either of lighting on a
straggler, or cutting off a piece of his tail, made no great haste to
be distant from Dragut, but gave orders to his fleet to be ready to
turn when he should do so, and make all sail in giving chase. This
they had done so well as to drive Dragut into a gulf near Zerbi,
where, it is said, he must either fly to land and lose his galleys, or
show fight, and be killed or taken. The Prince has 25 well-appointed
galleys, Dragut only 18, neither so well manned nor armed as Doria's.
The land being friendly to Dragut, Doria has sent to Genoa, Naples,
and Sicily for more vessels; and if they arrive in time, Dragut will
be dashed for ever. Some think that the pirate came out rather to
delay than to fight Doria, and to entice him into this gulf, into
which galleys can only go by one or two at the most at one time;
and as Doria expects vessels from the places before named, so
Dragut looks for the Turk's navy to arrive there before Doria's
departure, which may be if he waits for other aid. These news
have stayed the Prince of Spain, who, five or six days ago, had sent
off many of his train, and was ready to leave on the 2d curt. News
from Venice confirm the report as to the extent of the Turk's navy,
of which 48 or 50 are already abroad; and the appointment by the
Venetians of a Providetor or General for their navy is the best token
that the Turk cometh. Signor John Gastaldo writes from Hungary
that the Bassa of Buda has entered Transylvania with 8,000 horse,
and looks for many thousands more. Fra Giorgio does what he
can to defend the country. Gastaldo has also gone thither with
7,000 men. Great mustering of troops daily throughout Hungary
to meet the Turk. Advices from Constantinople mention the making
of 8,000 barrels of biscuit, and more in preparation in all parts of
the Turk's dominions; and orders are given to all his sangiacchi
and captains to have their troops ready at small warning to put foot
in stirrup. He sent his standard to the new King of the Tartars,
who, in return, sent him a present, estimated at 30,000 ducats, and
richly rewarded the bearers. The Turk may himself march to
Hungary about the end of this summer. The Bishop of Rome has
sent a brief monitory, summoning Duke Octavio to appear at Rome
within 30 days, under pain of being held rebel with forfeiture of
lands, offices, and all. Not content with this, he will also do him a
worse turn, that is, he curseth him with book, bell, and candle.
It is said that, in the hopes of it being intercepted, Duke Octavio
had sent a packet to Rome, containing letters written to divers
Cardinals, and many of his friends, to entreat for him, offering a
will content to do as much as he could to recover the favour of his
Holiness; his object being to stay the Bishop until the corn that
grows about Parma may be gathered into the town. Though Pietro
Strozzi is not in Parma, as he last wrote to their Lordships, yet
Mons. Sipier [St. Pierre], a man of no less, or rather of more, esteem
in France than he, is there for the French King, and has paid the
soldiers two pays, and taken their oath of faithful service to the
French King. The Bishop has horsemen ready at Ancona, and also a
good number of footmen at Bologna. It is thought he will require
to occupy them or others about the sea-coast; and to this end has
required the Venetian Ambassador to write to the Seigniory that
their clergy may help him with tents, &c. It is also noised that
Ferrante Gonzaga is secretly levying troops. Yesterday had merrily
asked the French Ambassador how, since the Bishop of Rome had
excommunicated Octavio, and all who give him aid, it fared with
his master; was he, with all his, yea, and their horses, not excommunicated also? "Ma foy," saith he, "his words are very large,
and perhaps he may stir hornets so long that the sting will stick
when he shall not be well able to pull it out." Knows that the
Ambassador understands the chief points of religion well, and thinks
he would be glad it were lawful in France for bishops to be honest
men. Is certain that he is not a little nettled that the Bishop should
extend his excommunication so far. The French Ambassador in
Flanders wrote hither how an English Protestant was taken in
Flanders with books and letters, and that all the letters are sent
hither to the Emperor. Cannot learn what there should be, but that
there was a fardel of books, and many letters, with instructions to
some in France. (A portion torn away.) Denmark begins to stir
against Sweden, which was once parcel of Denmark, and perhaps
may be again, if these fall out with Denmark and the Hanses.
Hears that the Hanses are angry with the King of Sweden, for that
he did last year practise with the King's Majesty to serve England
with certain wares which were wont to be sold first to those of
Lubeck, and afterwards to come to the English. Magdeburg still
holds out, and is like enough to abide the worst that shall be done
against it this summer. There is no certainty as to the General
Council; none have gone thither from this town, nor have any as
yet come to Trent; but letters from Rome state that even if war
should break out of the affairs of Parma, the Council shall hold on.
This is for many causes unlikely. A proclamation said to be issued
in France that none shall speak evil of the English for their religion,
and therefore many things may follow. "They, whose religion
standeth only by sufferance and silence, cannot abide that it should
come to the trial. Their doctrine hath no metal in it able long to
abide the hammer of a learned disputation. God send it be as well
meant in France, as it might do wonderful good to all Christendom!
If any good be done there, as we call it, or evil as the Papists do
misname it, your Lordships shall have the greatest part of the praise
or blame thereof. If the French King may by any means be brought
to the setting out of God's glory and to the licensing of true doctrine to be taught to the people, whether it be rightly meant or upon
occasion done, yea, though it be to spite some others, as Paul
sayeth he must rejoice and be glad, that Christ may, by any means,
be set out to the people. The Papists are wonderfully afraid that
their doctrine must come to the bar in France, and be as well there
found guilty of a marvellous sort of crimes as it hath been in England. God send that the sessions may quickly be kept, and that
French prelates may be hereafter as willing rightly to teach as they
have been glad hitherto frowardly to seduce!" Whether their Lordships mean that he shall remain here or return home, his humble suit
is that he may be able to pay what he owes here ere he parts, which
is as much as his next half-year's diet cometh to, and will be a good
deal more before he leaves. Begs their Lordships may be pleased to
bestow upon him the licence for dickers, (fn. 1) which he had already
moved to them. [Five pages.] |
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May 5.
Augsburg. | 338. Sir Richard Morysine to Sir Nicholas Throgmorton, one of
the gentlemen of his Majesty's privy chamber. His doings rightly
reported can do him no harm, and he can in nowise warrant more
than his doings. Pen and tongue are out of his reach, and may do as
they are wont, and not as they ought. Minds to please in as many
things as he safely may; farther he cannot vow. He will not
willingly offend the bigger to please the meaner. Will do his
best to do that he ought. More may be looked for, and he never
a whit to blame, though they miss that they look for. Did little
think some one would have made such a matter against him, but
must plead guilty of no more than duty may well discharge him of.
Entreats Throgmorton to cease not his labour for the leather licence.
Such a licence given to the better service of the King needs be no
precedent for others to challenge the like. It were evil done to give
it him, if either he had of his own to help himself withal, or that
there were not plenty of leather in England to serve his licence
without loss to the commonwealth. Is about a couple of genetts,
but he could have them in his stable if his leather would stretch so
far. Knows where he is indebted, and it is some grief to him to be
in such beggary, as he can make no demonstration thereof. His
genetts must go towards England when he has leather to hide them
in; for if they go in sight they may be stayed, unless leather jerkins, or some other things wringed forth of leather, entreat for the
passage. Let Throgmorton make him able to come by genetts, and
he shall see that Morysine knows whither to send them. Supposes
that the French Ambassador here has been no evil mean of such
news out of France as mentioned, but he likes not the coming
hither of Dr. Wotton. For his own part, shall be very glad to return whosoever succeed him, and the sooner the better content.
Knows Wotton to be a worthy man for wit, skill, and all the rest;
yet perceives that it will breed some jealousy in France if he come
to tarry. They have few less loved to the Frenchmen, therefore
thinks he best served his country while he was there. Can but
wonder at Lady Suffolk's heats. They have oft cumbered him, but
never worse than at this time. It is a great pity that so goodly a
wit waiteth upon so froward a will. Has often, but in vain, made
the suit to her that will might wait upon wit another while.
"Your brother needeth none of mine adhortations. I have, notwithstanding what I think, well said to him. To make an end, if
my Lord Marquis and my Lord of Warwick do not all to leather
me, my wife and I shall weep for bread, and so not get it neither.
If you help not, think me marred." [Three pages. Conway
Papers.] |
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May 6.
Greenwich. | 339. The Earl of Warwick [John Dudley] to Sir John Masone.
The delay in Sir William Pickering's return has been by occasion of
this great Ambassade. Recommends his son Lord Lisle, who has been
appointed Attaché to the Embassy. The Marquis of Northampton
is to leave upon Monday in Whitsun-week. [One page. Copy in
Sir John Masone's Letter-Book.] |
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May 7.
Greenwich. | 340. The Council to Sir John Masone. Sending therewith his
Majesty's letter to the French King of the 1st inst., desiring him to
present it officially, and to mention the appointment of the Marquis
of Northampton and the Bishop of Ely as Ambassadors extraordinary
for the ceremony of investiture. [One page and a half. Draft.] |
|---|
| Eod. die. | Copy of the preceding in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book. [Half a
page.] |
|---|
May 10.
Tours. | 341. Sir John Masone to the Council. Eight days since Mons.
St Pierre had come express from Rome and brought intelligence
that the Bishop thereof had adjourned personally Sig. Octavio,
and had levied troops towards an attempt to dispossess him of
Parma. The French King immediately despatched troops to the
frontiers, ordered his heavy horse to Paris and his light horse to
Lyons, and made preparations with so much heat that it was currently rumoured he intended to take the field in person. Sig. Ascanio, nephew to the said Bishop, arrived yesterday, and was very
well received. If the Bishop is obstinately in mind to recover the
seigniory of Parma, war must ensue, "and in that case is the
thing like to grow to a breach with other men; for all men may
well know that the said Bishop is the poorest man that ever came
into the place, and that of himself he is able to do nothing. So as it
must be others that shall be the principal doers, albeit the said
Bishop may have the open name thereof. Others think that this is
but a colour of the said Bishop to blear the Emperor's eye, whereby
he may be made believe that all this train was wrought without the
said Bishop's advice." The excitement has somewhat abated; but
meanwhile every man provides as if the war were proclaimed.
"They have been so long in a readiness, and have their heads so full
of hot young blood, as needs must they be doing, fall where it will."
Immediately on these tidings Sig. Horatio, brother to the said
Octavio, was affianced to the King's bastard daughter, and straightway with M. St. Pierre sent post into Italy. On Wednesday the
6th their Lordships' letters arrived by Francisco, who informed
him that the reports which he had alluded to formerly were utterly
false and in no part true. Believes that such arose of his own countrymen, who being a sort of vile runagates and desperate vagabonds,
resort in numbers daily hither and make a place of receipt in the
Vidame's house. Thinks he is now well harnessed for the defence
and confutation of such speeches as before he wist not how to bear
off. Yesterday communicated the coming Embassy to the Constable,
who was much gratified thereby, and said that the King would probably be at Chateaubriand at the time of their arrival, and that it
was intended to send Marshal St. André to England on a corresponding Embassy. This Marshal is held in great estimation, and is
in such special credit with the King as very few or none are in the
like. Of late has been much consultation touching the marriage of
the Dauphin to the Scottish Queen, which the Constable and the
Chancellor would in any case to be deferred; during this debate
there were some words between M. de Guise and the Constable. If
matters proceed in Italy, M. de Guise will go there as LieutenantGeneral. To-day they send despatches to their Ambassador, who
will apprize their Lordships as to the receiving the Marquis of
Northampton at Boulogne and other places. "The Dowager of
Scotland maketh all this Court weary of her, from the high to the
low, such an importunate beggar is she for herself and her chosen
friends. The King would fain be rid of her, and she, as she pretendeth, would fain be gone." The "trucking" is about money
matters: the King wishes her to go upon a promise of payment, but
she wishes to have the money with her. Was yesterday informed by
the Receiver General of Brittany, who wished that Scotland were in
a fish-pool, that since the beginning 1,900,000 francs had been sent
there out of his receipt and of the receipt of Guienne, and how
much else had passed he knew not. Andrew Doria has driven Dragut Rey into a river on the coast of Gernes in Africa, and blockades
its mouth, so that Dragut must either break through by force, or
else escape by land, losing his galleys. Is informed that one Higgins,
formerly servant to Sir John Luttrell, has become a spy for the
French, and is at present here; his informant having once been a spy
he knows not what to think, but recommends inquiry to be made of
Sir John Luttrell. The Irishmen have not yet gone; they are
much favoured by the Vidame, who had offered to take the island
himself with a very small force; for this offer he is much laughed at
and scorned by some wise men of the Court, he being but a young
man of war. The King and Court leave to-morrow for Angers, and
will take 14 or 15 days in the way. The Marshal St. André's coming will be notified to their Lordships by the Ambassador. Entreats
them to take order for the payment of his diets, they being now two
whole months due. "The Treasurer maketh none other answer but
that he hath no money. I would to God I could be excused with
the like answer to any steward here! Receive them when I shall,
they are spent already." [Six pages.] |
|---|
| Eod. die. | Copy of the preceding in Sir John Masone's Letter-Book. [Four
pages and a half.] |
|---|
| May 12. | 342. Commission from King Edward VI. to William, Marquis of
Northampton, to invest Henry II., King of France, with the Order
of the Garter. [Two pages. Indorsed by Cecil. Draft.] |
|---|
May 12.
Augsburg. | 343. Sir Richard Morysine to Cecil. According to their instructions of 18th April, received on the 8th inst., had offered to visit
Mons. D'Arras, partly being glad that Joannes Leonis Nardi had the
whole blame of the book, letters, and other devices taken in Flanders,
and partly because M. D'Arras had expressed a wish to see him in
reference to the complaints made against him. An interview had
been appointed for one o'clock, prior to which hour the French
Ambassador called, and told him he had delivered the said book
and letters to Mons. D'Arras, so that Morysine might peruse them
when he would, and that he expected to have commission to burn
both book and letters, having besought the Constable he might do
so, because the one was nought, and for the sake of the gentlemen to
whom the others were addressed. On coming to Mons. D'Arras, was
met by him a chamber farther than wont, and conducted by him to
his bed-chamber. Said to M. D'Arras, that he had heard what business Joannes Leonis Asini had made in Flanders, by sending letters
and other fond writings, as he meant, into France, and as it happened
into Flanders. Told him of the letters from their Lordships, wherein
the man and his fond conditions were so set out, as if his doings
were anything like himself, or like unto such copies as were found at
home, there was no doubt but the readers might both have what to
laught at, and what worthily to lament in him. Mentioned that he
sometimes wrote himself Servus Dei, and sometimes was so familiar
with God, and had such plenty of instructions from heaven, that he
was altogether in his revelations a companion for angels, and but of
his gentleness conversant with men. That he had large promises
made unto him, but in the dark, such as to convert the Turk, bring all
the infidels to the true Christian faith, and cause Jews be christened
by his preaching. Morysine farther said, the person might be
thought worthy much blame, that being in such favour with God,
he made no suit that his man might go whither he sent him; and
it was some loss of his credit that his man being sent into France,
should be taken in Flanders, and so the purpose of the Holy Ghost
be disappointed. If it were by force of wind, God being Lord of
wind and weather may seem not to favour the purpose; if, for
want of wit, the man sent is not so worthy to be blamed as he is
that sent him. On this Mons. D'Arras was very merry, and added,
"When God sendeth fools of his errand, yet he doth order the
matter so, as they speed that He sendeth them for. If others serve
Joannes Leonis' turn no better than this his apostle is like to do
whom we have in Flanders, he must take a pain himself." Perceives
that they take the matter as it is, and lay the blame only upon
them that made the fault. Mons. D'Arras had said that if he or
any other had gathered but the shadow of any suspicious practice
on part of any of the English, he would have sent for Morysine;
but finding no such matter, he had delivered the book and letters to
the French Ambassador to be forwarded where they were meant.
Notwithstanding, he said, Morysine might see, how the English
jarring in religion with others brought such men into their country,
where they dare be bolder than elsewhere. May not be bold to say
much while Mr. Wotton has catechised him, but had replied, that if
the man were not mad indeed, and so more deserving of pity than
of punishment, he had by this time learned that the magistrates in
England were as ready to punish strangers that do amiss, as they
are ready to show favour to those who do well. Mons. D'Arras said,
the book was full of heresies, and the man rather to be thought a
counterfeit varlet than a fool indeed, as the book had shrewd
matters in it and unhappily gathered together. Replied, that he
had only heard of the book, but knowing the man, could think him
able to do but small harm, and that also must be to fools; for
whoso buildeth upon revelations, that he winneth among the simple
he loseth among the witty, with large usury. The man that brought
the fardel into Flanders has been examined and the examinations
sent hither, but M. D'Arras says, he was not so well handled as he
should have been, and letters are gone to give him the rack if the
Council there shall think anything hid in him that may by pain be
brought to light. Mons. D'Arras took his coming in very good
part, escorting him where his men tarried for him, which was farther
than his wont, by a chamber. "I suppose he reckoneth I have but
a while to be where he may bestow his gentleness upon me, and
therefore he will for this little season cumber me with kindness."
News have been received that Dragut has escaped without the loss
of galleys or anything. As Doria has not written, it is thought that
the worst of the tale is behind. They say that a great storm arose,
and that Doria, seeking shelter for his navy, did harbour where hope
appointed him, and in the mean season Dragut stole away. The
vessels that left Italy in expectation of finding Doria dragging
Dragut after him as a prisoner, will now meet Doria scarce able to
hold up his head for shame, not of his evil government, but of his misfortune. Some also report that he comes home with fewer galleys than
he carried out, the tempest having taken a double tithe of his vessels.
Others says that Dragut has his part of them, and that Doria is
either hardly escaped, or not escaped. Inclines to believe the worst,
as the Imperialists themselves want countenance to forge good news
at present. That that shall not be, will not be; thinks this is
not the year in which the Imperialists have to triumph. Dragut is
gone towards the Turk's navy, which meets him half way, and is, as
the Venetian Ambassador has declared to the Emperor, a great and
puissant army. The Venetians, who are but lookers on, arm 70
galleys. The Turk is not thought to be so fond as to mean but the
enterprise of the town Africa. Spain, Sicily, and Italy lie in his
way, and he is the liker to rove at some one of them, for that there
may be good help promised him. All this year France has been
suspected, but never so much as now, for every day casteth some
new increase to this suspicion. The French lately practised to have
taken a fair town in Piedmont, not far from Vercelli, called Ivrea,
but failed; three hours more leisure might have put them in possession of it. It is reported that the King of Navarre is dead, and that
Mons. Vendôme, husband to the daughter and heir of Navarre, means
to seek possession of the whole kingdom, his father-in-law, during all
his life, having had only a portion of it. The French Ambassador
says that he has not heard of the King's death; but if he is, M. de
Vendôme has as good title to the whole kingdom as the Emperor has
to Flanders. Because, the King of Spain has no other title to Navarre,
except that when the Bishop of Rome had excommunicated the King
thereof, the King of Spain, as Rex Catholicus, entered upon the realm,
which now, by curse of the Bishop, is not his that was the right owner,
but his that by violence could catch it. Thus the old doctrine serves
well, that a realm may be kept from the right owner, and no grudge of
conscience in the matter. Cannot see what kind of robbery can carry
men to hell, if it be lawful for any to steal kingdoms. This talk
may be spread, to see what will be said of it, and perhaps if the
King be not dead, things upon occasion may be attempted, which
now break out in talk. The castle of Brescello, belonging to the
Cardinal of Ferrara, taken by Giovanni Castellan of Cremona, is being
fortified; men suppose it may help much to annoy Parma. Ferrante
Gonzaga, it is said, has made great provision for scythes, meaning to
mow the corn about Parma. If he can do so, the soldiers within
are like to want bread, but there is likely to be breaking of heads
ere harvest be all had into the barn. The Bishop has sent Cardinal
Medicis to Parma to spend the last and peremptory talk with
Octavio. His bull monitory is abroad, eternally cursing him, if he
do not as the Bishop bids him. Sends copy of it (missing). On
the 16th of April the French Ambassador's letters were taken from
the post at Constance, looked in, and returned to the post. The
King, not a little offended, has sent a new cypher to the Ambassador.
It is said to have been done without authority, and if the persons
are discovered they will be punished. Yesterday came letters from
Rome to the Emperor, who thereupon sent for the French Ambassador. Has been unable to extract the subject from the Ambassador,
who is not so cheerful as he was wont to be. The other Ambassadors
have a great advantage over Morysine, since they may freely talk
with the Bishop's Nuncio, of whom more is for the most part to be
learned than of all the rest of this Court. The Bishop sails in all
ships, and must warrant and assure his wares at all hands, else he
may chance one day to make bankrupt. Supposes the disadvantage
small, for if he might go to the Nuncio, he were like to have as
little help at his hands as any that served here these 20 years.
The French Ambassador in Flanders wrote to M. Marsillac that
Sir Geoffrey Pole was practising sedition and stir in England; had
informed Marsillac the rumour must be false, because Sir Geoffrey
Pole was with the Bishop of Liege in Germany, and was not gone
into England, so far as he knew. Trusts they have some abroad to
hearken and advertise them if any such mischief be meant. The
Protestants here say that the King of the Romans suffers the gospel
to be preached in certain churches of Vienna: this is not likely, yet
not impossible to be true. Maximilian knows there is no way so
good to make him great, nor no such mean to keep the Prince from
the Coadjutoria. Many of the King's Council daily went to the Protestants' churches here, and communicated in both kinds. Men suppose the Emperor will do what he can so to abase the King as he
may work his will for the Coadjutoria. The Prince is still going,
and men may think him already gone, for after Maximilian went, he
came never out of his lodgings, but when he went with the Queen
to christen the Duke of Bavaria's child. "As touching the General
Council, it is begun thus: A few Italian Bishops were there, and
invited the Holy Ghost to a mass, which done, he had leave to go
whither he would. Wise men say the Holy Ghost knew they meant
either no Council, or one to oppugn the truth and to establish wickedness and error, and therefore he came no more to mass than he
meaneth to be at their Council. It had been much to have brought
him to mass, that never was at none since he was the Holy Ghost,
more to have made him wait upon Bishops that send him away ere
he be come to them." The Council is prorogued to September, and
so he thinks it will begin the day after Nevermass. "France may
be some impediment, scarcity of victuals some let; the business of
Parma is of more importance than the Council; better a good many
in this blind Interim lose their souls than the Bishop his town of
Parma." Has just been informed that the Emperor has given notice
to the gentlemen of his chamber to be in readiness for his leaving
on the 28th of this month for Flanders, meaning not to tarry much
by the way till he reaches Brussels. It is thought he has some
suspicion of France. Thanks their Lordships that his diets are
ready to make hitherwards: shall but receive them to pay them,
and so be driven to borrow anew; but there are thanks behind,
which he trusts they will shortly force him to give to them: he
means, for his licence of dickers, which once obtained, he will cumber
them with no more suits, till either he may bear no longer, or they
shall think somewhat not amiss bestowed upon him. [Seven
pages.] |
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| May 14. | 344. King Edward VI. to Henry II., King of France, accrediting
the Marquis of Northampton and Bishop of Ely for the investiture of
his Majesty with the Order of the Garter. [Two pages. Draft.] |
|---|
May 14.
Tours. | 345. Sir John Masone to the Constable Montmorency. Acquaints
him that he has received letters for the King of France, which by
some great carelessness had been left out of his last packet, delivered
eight or nine days ago, and requests to know when he may have
audience to present them to his Majesty. [Half a page. Copy in
Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
|---|
May 15.
Chinon. | 346. The Constable Montmorency to Sir John Masone. In reply
to the preceding, informs him that the King goes on the following
day to Champigny, two leagues and a half from Chinon, where
Masone can have access when he pleases. [Half a page. Copy in
Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
|---|
May 19.
Chinon. | 347. Sir John Masone to the Council. Had received their letters
of the 7th upon Thursday the 14th inst., and had ascribed the
blame of their late despatch to the negligence of the courier or some
inferior minister. On Monday, in Whitsun week, he waited upon
the King, and presented the letter from the King his master. The
French King was exceedingly delighted. "I have not seen him
more jocund, neither at any other time have I noted in him either
a more pleasant or gentle countenance, either friendlier or more
amiable words, which I could not guess but that they proceeded
even from the bottom of his stomach." Marshal St. André seems
to rejoice very much of these outward signs of the increase of this
amity. Is informed that he takes with him either two or three
ships laden with wheat, and intends not to make too much haste to
return, being desirous to have some experience of the English hunting, wherein they do exceed other nations. He also, it is said,
brings with him a great number of the young gentlemen of the
French Court. If so, their Lordships doubtless will not let them lack
convenient entertainment. Signor Ascanio has returned with certain
overtures devised for the pacification of the matter of Parma, which it
is thought will not take effect so soon, the less because that Don Fernando, on hearing of the revolt of Parma, had seized a town called
Bozzelis [Bossolo], not far from thence, belonging to the Cardinal of
Ferrara, and is now fortifying it. Its position being such as to impede
supplies from Mirandola, marvellously troubles the French. The Emperor is again reported to be dying. Has seen a letter from Rome,
in which it is said that the Bishop of Armachan is thoroughly and
very well despatched touching the matters of Ireland. What this
may be he can rather conjecture than know certainly, but either is
it some cursing, or giving the said realm in predam, or some mischief or other, which he trusts shall take the same effect as have other
malicious practices which have hitherto been meant against England
from that see. The French King's ordinance, that all ecclesiastics
shall reside half the year on their benefices, has given much offence
to the Bishop of Rome. Monluc is likely to be sent thither concerning this. Congratulates them on their taking measures for the
reformation of the coinage in England, which will be gladly appreciated both at home and abroad. Marshal St. André will not leave
until he hears that the Marquis of Northampton has crossed the sea.
[Three pages.] |
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| Eod. die. | Copy of the preceding in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book. [Four
pages.] |
|---|
May 20.
Brussels. | 348. Dr. Wotton to the Council. Arrived at Brussels on Monday
in Whitsun-week, having tarried some days at Antwerp for sundry
preparations necessary. Next morning Sir Thomas Chaloner and he
sent notice of his arrival to the President de Mombarry, otherwise
called de Saint Maurice, desiring audience of the Queen Regent.
Her Majesty did not return from hunting until late, but to-day
(Wednesday), about 10 a.m., the President came and brought them
to the Queen, to whom Wotton delivered the King's letter. She
used herself gently enough, made much expression of amity, and
mentioned that the Emperor would leave Augsburg in the beginning
of next month to come downwards. After leaving her they waited
upon the French Queen, and did like commendations from the King
to her; who also seemed to take it very well and used very gentle
words to them. Intends to depart to-morrow, thinking to find the
Emperor at Worms, where it is understood his Majesty will only
wait for ships and boats convenient for him and his train. Wherefore, had he not feared to offend the King, he could have been content to spare this journey to Augsburg or Worms, and have tarried
for the Emperor here, knowing how little pleasure it is for strangers
to travel in that barbarous country of Germany. "As I passed
through Mechlin a servant of mine told me that one in a velvet coat
asked him whether he were an Englishman? My man said, 'Yea,'
The t'other asked him whether he were my servant? My man said,
'Yea.' 'Then,' quod the t'other, 'I pray you show your master that
I would fain speak with him.' 'What is your name?' quod my
man. 'Marry, Geoffrey Pole,' quod the other. When I heard this
I told my man I would not speak with him, he having used himself
as he had done. Likewise here at Brussels, two gentlemen, the one
called Kempe, the other Walgrave, would fain have spoken with me.
I caused answer to be made to them that if they could make it
appear to me that they had leave either to come out of England or
to tarry here, I would be glad to speak with them, and else not.
And so they went their ways." Desires to know his Majesty's
pleasure whether he should have any communication with them, or
other persons, if again sued for an interview. [Two pages.] |
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May 20.
Greenwich. | 349. Commission from King Edward VI. to William Marquis of
Northampton, Thomas Bishop of Ely, Sir John Masone, Sir Philip
Hoby, Sir William Pickering, Sir Thomas Smith, and Dr. John
Oliver, to conclude a treaty of marriage between his Majesty and
the Princess Elizabeth, daughter of Henry II., King of France.
[Three pages. Latin. Copy in Sir John Masone's Letter-Book.] |
|---|
| Eod. die. | First draught (entirely autograph of Sir William Cecil) of the preceding commission. [Six pages. Printed by Rymer, Vol. xv.,
p. 279, 2d edition, 1728.] |
|---|
May 20.
Greenwich. | 350. Commission from King Edward VI. to the same Commissioners to arrange a treaty of strict alliance and defence between
France and England. [Three pages. Latin. Copy in Sir John
Masone's Letter-Book.] |
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| Eod. die. | Copy of the preceding commission, corrected by Cecil. [Six pages
and a half. Indorsed by Cecil.] |
|---|
May 20.
Greenwich. | 351. Instructions from King Edward VI. to the Marquis of Northampton and the other Commissioners aforesaid,—proceeding to
France to invest Henry II. with the Order of the Garter,—to
demand the Queen of Scots in marriage with the King of England;
and in the event of that being refused, to solicit the hand of the
Princess Elizabeth, daughter of the French monarch. With the
various stipulations as to dowry, time for solemnization of the
marriage, &c. [Nine pages. Copy in Sir John Masone's LetterBook.]
The treaty of marriage following upon the preceding commission
has been printed by Rymer, Vol. xv., p. 273, 2d edition, 1728.
First draft of the preceding (Eighteen pages), and fair copy thereof
(Eight pages, indorsed by Cecil), without the three additional clauses
contained in Masone's copy. |
|---|
| May 20. | 352. "A memoriall of such things as be to be considered for the
instructions of the Lord Marquis" (Northampton). "An estimat of
the enterteynement of the Lords that went over with my Lord
Marquis." "A memorie for the enterteynement of my Lord Marquis
and his treyne." In the first of these documents it is settled that
there shall be no book of statutes (of the Order of the Garter), as
hath been accustomed. [Five pages.] |
|---|
May c. 20 or 21.
Greenwich. | 353. King Edward VI. to Henry II., King of France. Informs
him of the appointment of Commissioners to meet M. Lansac for
settling the question of the Scottish boundaries, and giving credence
to Sir William Pickering, who has been appointed resident
Ambassador in France. [One page. Indorsed by Cecil. French.
Copy.] |
|---|
May 23.
Venice. | 354. Peter Vannes to the Council. Acknowledges receipt of their
letter of the 19th ult. from Greenwich, and congratulates them on
the prosperous estate of his Majesty and the realm as therein set
forth. Had communicated its contents to the Seigniory and the
other Ambassadors, and especially declared the friendship with
France and other continental powers, which kind of communication
he did somewhat extend of himself, the rather for to quench a certain
suspicious and untrue rumour here that in England should be little
agreement amongst noblemen, and likelihood of war from outward
parts, and seditions within the realm. The French Ambassador had
previously in his master's name affirmed the Seigniory of the amity,
and the exchange of the Orders of the Garter and of St. Michael.
Trusts they will be nothing aggrieved by his going to solemn places
when formally invited. Little news here in addition to what he had
before written to them. Matters are in the same state in regard to
Parma, likely to end in words merely. The Bishop of Rome is
reckoned of a wavering mind, for the French, beside the unkindness,
do judge and openly speak of his unfriendly doings. The Imperialists
have him in a jealousy, and that he does nothing but for fear of the
Emperor; and so sitting between two stools, he is not long like to
sit upright. For if by any chance he should lose the friendship of
France, he shall lose the best flower of his garland; and on the other
side, if he doth displease the Emperor, undoubtedly he shall put his
temporal estate in danger. The Duke of Ferrara makes precautionary
defences: many suppose he has a leaning towards France. Nothing
is spoken of the Council, or any good expected from it. The second
session is put off till September, and many judge it is rather appointed for the advancing of Princes' affairs, than for any good order
to be established in religion, according to God's law and his honour.
The news in his last letter of the victories of Andrew Doria over
Dragut Rey, as set forth by the Imperialists, prove to be clean contrary to the truth; since, notwithstanding Doria's force, he has got
safely away with all his own vessels, and has taken one of Doria's
best galleys, called the Corona, and two other ships laden with biscuits; while Doria was going towards Naples somewhat sick in body
and mind, being a man of great age and well wearied in worldly
labour. A seditious treatise had lately been discovered at Genoa,
and a gentleman of the family of Spinola, keeping a great bank at
Lyons, has been imprisoned for the same. As he hears nothing of
Horsmonden in Rome or Italy, supposes that he went to Barbary as
formerly mentioned. Four Englishmen have come to Rome. Two
of these, Thomas Crew, a Cheshire man, and John Badger, a native
of Worcestershire, naming themselves gentlemen of a low degree (as
he supposes), have got into the service of Cardinal Pole. The other
two are placed at Sienna as soldiers, with two ducats and a half per
month. One of them is a son of Winslow the Cornish traitor; and
what with his playing upon his harp, they wander their lives without
any superfluity of victuals or ease. An English gentleman, George
Throgmorton, has arrived here, for the purpose of learning the language and gaining worldly experience. As his uncle is chief man
about Cardinal Pole, Vannes has given him advice how to comfort
himself; he seems of a very gentle nature and honest conditions,
and of a true heart towards his country, willing to do well and
haunt honest company. Since writing thus far has heard from a
friend at Naples, to whom he had written about William Hors
monden, that the latter bore a true heart to England, and that his
sudden and suspicious departure only proceeded from necessity and
from no other cause. Incloses three letters. Perceives that betwixt
the Imperialists and Frenchmen here there are burning hearts; each
side watching time and opportunity. For further news refers to
writing inclosed. [Five pages.] Annexed, |
|---|
| 354. I. Some notes of foreign intelligence, containing news of
the capture of Duke Horatio, the Prior of Lombardy,
and others, whose vessels had been driven by stress of
weather into Pietra Santa, within the territory of the
Duke of Florence, and their friendly treatment and
liberation by the Duke. [Italian. Four pages. See
Morysine's letter of May 26, postea.] |
May 23.
Venice. | 355. Peter Vannes to Sir William Petre and Cecil. A note of
complimentary courtesy, inclosing the preceding letter for the
Council. [Half a page.] |
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May 25.
Greenwich. | 356. The Council to Sir John Masone. The French Ambassador
has this day informed them that the French Commissioners in Scotland complain that the English ones are very strait, and allege lack
of instructions to accord what Pickering and Masone had agreed to
the French King. They have now received full instructions. A
dispute has again arisen in regard to the French boundaries, Senarpont having caused to be impounded 60 English cattle which
were pasturing upon Sandingfeld, called by them St. Engelbert's,
and notwithstanding the Ambassador had written to him, he yet,
as it were to maintain the pique, retains one cow, and very quickly
has both written to Lord Willoughby, and also sent him answer by
a trumpeter. Desire him to see the Constable as to this. They
have also heard that Senarpont has obtained the lands of Sandingfeld to his own use, which is not to be liked, since being a man of
charge upon the frontier, he may thereby be the rather provoked to
pick a quarrel for his own commodity. The Marquis of Northampton
has left, and will probably be at Calais to-morrow. [One page and
a half. Copy in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
|---|
May 26.
Saumur. | 357. Henry II., King of France, to the Marquis of Northampton.
Congratulates him on his arrival, and sends the bearer, the Sieur
de Mandosse, gentleman of the chamber, to escort him to the Court.
[One page. Countersigned by De l'Aubespine, and indorsed by
Cecil. Addressed "A Mons. le Marquis de Noranthon."
French.] |
|---|
May 26.
Augsburg. | 358. Sir Richard Morysine to the Council. Signor Ascanio della
Cornia having returned to Rome with a flat answer from the French
King that he will not cast off those whom with gage of his honour
he has taken into his protection, makes men think that the next
letters will show whether large sayings and lusty doings dwell
together, or whether the hollow Father can chide a good, and after
do but a little harm. The person who brought the last letters states
that 2,000 guastatori, with horse and foot, are ready to go to
Parma, and mean, the Bishop having a mind still to mar that which
God makes, to destroy such corn as else might do good. His curse is
running in great storm; would God his soldiers' swords could do
no more hurt to bodies than this his excommunication will do harm
to souls! It is said the Emperor has sent 12 captains from Milan
and elsewhere in Italy to levy men against Octavio; and that
Signor Giovan Baptista de Monte, nephew to the Bishop, and like
to be confaloniere of the Church in room of Octavio, if he behaves
stoutly in the enterprise, is ready to do the Bishop's business at
Parma when ordered thereto. The French, on their part, are not
idle, but labour as men who mean; the more earnestly, perhaps, of
a report that their king was like to lay the whole family of the
Farneses in the dust. Pietro Strozzi, with 12 others, is levying
men throughout Italy, and is said to be now in Parma; he and
Duke Horatio will probably keep abroad, to be the rescue of such as
else may be mured up. Letters from Florence confirm the news that
Duke Horatio with some French gentlemen, coming from France
with two galleys, had by stress of weather been driven to land at
Pietra Santa, a haven of the Duke of Florence, whose officers, aware
of the little good will between their master and the house of Farnese, had stayed the galleys, and fell to rifling of them. But the
Duke hearing of this, sent orders that they should be honourably
entertained, and their property restored to them. Others say that
Horatio made shift and escaped, untalked with and unseen. Some
think that if he could help himself otherwise, though with some peril,
he would rather give the adventure thereof than come into the hands
of the Duke of Florence. Paul III. did Cosmo de Medicis many
displeasures, at which time the Farneses, his nephews, thought it
their part to show enmity where their grandfather had so bestowed
his hatred. Besides, as the Emperor had made him Duke of
Florence, men think that where he might have gratified the
Emperor and the Bishop of Rome by the stay of his own enemy,
whom God had put in his hands unsought for, he would not so
suddenly have let him away. Had he been kept, war might have
been stayed. Others say the Duke acted wisely, both from a desire
to be neutral, and because of the intermarriage of the French King
with the house of Medicis. Horatio is said to be now safe in Parma.
The best of the house of Bentivoglio, who long were Lords of
Bologna till Julius II. drove them out, have come to Italy, practising to see what they may do against Julius III., with small hope
of recovering what they have lost, but some pleasure to annoy him
whom they would fain undo. Shartley is looked for; if he come,
Germans will swarm towards Italy, if the French King have his
troops got ready made for them. Men of experience think that war
has got full possession of Italy for a year or two, if want of victuals
breed not the atonement a long while before good will make them
friends. The French seek as many delays as they can, in order to
have their naval and military operations in hand at once. Octavio
has requested of the Bishop of Rome,—1, that he may give up the
captainship of the Church; 2, that he may serve what and whom
he listeth; 3, that the Bishop will stay his excommunication. The
Bishop replies to the first, it should have been granted without
suit; to the second, he has acted without licence; to the third, he
must look for it, unless he comes home to his mother Church. The
Turk's armata is already about Negroponte. The French say the
Turk cannot be long of coming; the Imperialists that the Sophy
will find enough of work for him at home: but those who have
been in these countries assert that the Sophy can better withstand
the Turk in his own country than by invading him. The son of
Barbarossa. King of Algiers, has been busy with Hereph, King of
Tremecen, and has killed one of his sons, and taken another prisoner.
Duke Maurice's agent here gives out that those of Magdeburg desire
to be reconciled, making much suit for peace, and ask but any
reasonable conditions, willing to bear some pain for their stubborn
withstanding of the Emperor; also that conferences are being held
to that end. On the other hand, it is said that they are perfectly
indifferent to peace or war, being determined to maintain liberty
of conscience; and that the sea cities, Hamburg, Bremen, Lunenburg, and others have sent them great supplies of provisions, and
by this open show of their friendship have so increased these men's
hearts that they can no skill of fear. Some suppose Duke Maurice
is at this Diet, endeavouring by his clergy to win back to him the
foolish Protestants; a sort of men as apt to be deceived, as the
others be glad when they are so. Duke John Frederick's son may,
in this time of his father's captivity, be persuaded to do many things
that, as he may be made to believe, will do his father good. Whatsoever the Assembly means, if the sea cities have gone thus far, it is
like they will need small entreaty to go farther. France has his
practices in all places. Yesterday at eight o'clock, before dinner,
the Prince of Spain left this for Genoa. The Prince of Piedmont on
his right hand, and the Duke of Holstein on his left, almost cheek
by cheek, escorted him out of the town. The Duke of Alva and
Mons. D'Arras brought his Highness a mile or two of his way, and
at parting both dismounted, and kissing his hand, with great
reverence and much ceremony, took their leave on foot. About
2 p.m. on same day, the Emperor left for Monaco, either to essay
himself how he might abide his horse, or that he felt as fathers do,
and would be away from that house a season, where his son and he
had been so long and now were sundered. His Majesty chose the
hottest of the day to travel in, gladdest to be abroad when the sun
heateth most. Both Prince and Emperor went by the Duke of
Saxony, who bareheaded made low obeisance to them. The Prince
put off his cap; the Emperor cast up his eye, and put his hand towards his cap. The Court, that is, Foulkers' [Fugger's] house and all
Ambassadors, remain until his Majesty's return, about 10 days hence,
when, if there be no let or change of will he proceeds to Flanders.
His greatest errand is to make France not too lusty in Italy, and
send too many from home, lest he be doing with him whilst his
captains be elsewhere occupied. Will say little of his own troubles
occasioned by this removing, as their Lordships can guess them by
his wants, and the place in which they have put him. He is
beholden to the Schores, who lend him a good deal more money than
he wots where to borrow at home. |
|---|
| P.S. At the sealing of this a friend brought him letters from Trent,
which he sends herewith (missing). [Six pages.] |
May 28.
Angers. | 359. Sir John Masone to the Marquis of Northampton. Congratulates him on his arrival in France. The King is at present
within three leagues of Angers. Recommends his Lordship for the
more ease to come by water from Orleans, as the Loire is much
greater than in times past at this season it hath been wont to be.
M. de Boisdaulphin, a gentleman of much estimation and chief
maître d'hôtel to the King, is to accompany M. de St. André to
England and remain as Ambassador there. Has just been informed
that the King will be here on Tuesday next, will not remain beyond
three days, but will go to Chateaubriand, 15 or 16 leagues hence.
[One page. Copy in Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
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May 31.
Paris. | 360. The Marquis of Northampton to Sir John Masone. Thanks
him for his letter, and informs him that his entertainment hitherto
by the way has been so gentle and friendly that he is put out of
care for needing of anything while he shall be in these parts. M. de
Mandosse had met him at Boulogne, and M. de Villebon at Montreuil,
and made him right good cheer, continuing their escort of him hither.
Had been visited by the Mayor and principal men of every town
through which he passed, with such presents as they use. If Masone
sees the King or the Constable, requests that he will express the
Marquis's grateful sense of the attentions paid to him and his suite.
Was informed yesterday by M. de Mandosse that the King would
receive him at Nantes. Will leave Paris about Wednesday next,
and spend three days in journey between that city and Orleans,
whence he will take the water as Masone recommends him. Sends
his compliments to Lady Masone. [One page and a half. Copy in
Sir J. Masone's Letter-Book.] |
|---|
May 31.
Venice. | 361. Peter Vannes to the Council. The Seigniory have delayed
sending their General, in daily expectation of some certain intelligence of the Turk's army. A rumour of the Turk's death had spread
in Constantinople, and the people being almost in a tumult, the
Ambassadors and Christians there were in some danger and prevented from sending any despatches. The report had been quenched
by the Turk's very solemn and pompous entry into that city from
Adrianople, to the great comfort of his subjects. Letters from thence
of the 28th ult. state that the whole Turkish fleet does not exceed
110 galleys, besides several pirates, and 50 of them provided with
all things necessary were ready to sail. Whereupon on the 26th
curt. the Seigniory solemnly delivered his standard to their General,
in token of absolute authority, his power being so great that he
can do and undo all things, and so cannot the Duke. Describes the
ceremonial of the delivery of the standard to Maestro Stephano
Teypolo the General, a man of the age of 70 years, goodly, grave, and
witty, in presence of the Duke and about 300 gentlemen of Venice,
all clothed in crimson velvet, damask, and satin, together with the
Ambassadors. The General was clothed with a train of crimson
velvet to the ground, and his under garment down to his foot was
of crimson satin, his uppermost garment being open on the right
side, with buttons of gold on his shoulder as big as hens' eggs, much
after the Parliament robes. After a solemn mass of the Holy Ghost
the same great standard, as peradventure some men thought rather
for the alluring of the rude people, not without suspicion of superstition, was consecrated there even with like ceremonies as the font
and paschal was wont to be hallowed on Easter-even, and then
delivered by the Duke to the General kneeling. The standard
being carried by his Admiral, the General was accompanied to his
galley by the Duke and the rest of the company, with trumpets,
drums, and shot of ordnance. This galley was gorgeously appointed,
having on each side 25 banks, every bank of four oars, and a piece
of ordnance between every bank, beside other great pieces couched
in the fore part and other places, bravely furnished with all things
thereunto belonging. Supposes about 20,000 people were present,
whose respectful and cheerful demeanour towards their superiors
was chiefly to be noted, which, as the General informs him, is to be
ascribed to their education when young, and by reason thereof all
the Government here proceeds with an incredible quiet and good
order. The General told him that Dragut Rey had in the Gulf of
Venice attacked two of their vessels laden with troops, provisions,
and arms for Corfu; but they were so gallantly defended, that they
saved all things, save that one of the ships was so sore bowged with
Dragut's ordnance, that she sank immediately after the discharge of
her burden. The Providetor being 10 miles off, and hearing the
gunshot, immediately directed sail towards them with a good wind,
and chased Dragut into a strait. The Emperor's Ambassador tells
him that the Viceroy of Naples has already furnished certain places
upon the sea coast in these quarters with 10,500 horse and foot,
sufficient ordnance, munitions, and victual. There is a rumour,
which he believes to be absurd, that certain gentlemen of good
families of Genoa are cited there to answer upon a practice detected,
with agreement of the Prince of Spain, for the destruction of Andrew
Doria and to bring the city unto the Imperial satisfaction. Cannot
suppose that a Prince of such honour would in anywise consent
thereto. Conflicting reports of the proceedings of Parma are daily
spread, as their Lordships will perceive by the inclosed news received
from Rome of the 21st curt. (missing.) [Four pages. Much defaced by damp.] |
|---|
May.
Greenwich. | 362. King Edward VI. to Henry II., King of France. Informing him of his election to the Order of the Garter at a Chapter held
at Greenwich on the 24th of April last. [French. One page. Copy.] |
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