Kingston
(who his
had cost him twenty thousand pounds upon condition had lived.
had cost him twenty thousand pounds upon condition had lived.
Complete Collection of State Trials for Treason - v01
—11.
the same. —4. Also, the said lord
his presumptuous mind divers and many his Letters and Instructions sent out of this
realm outward parties, had joined himself with your grace, saying and writing his
said etters and Instructions; “The king and And, would should thus. The
ğ.
king and give unto you our hearty thanks. ’ Also, the said lord cardinal hath granted Li Whereby apparent that used himself cense under your great seal for carrying out more like fellow your highness, than like grain and other victual, after the restraint hath
-subject. —5. Also, where hath ever been ac been made thereof, for his own lucre, and sin
customed within this your realm, that when gular advantage him and his servants, for noblemen swear their household servants, send thither he bare secret favour, without
the first part their oath hath been, That they your graces warrant knowledge thereof— should true liegemen the king and his 12. Also, the said lord cardinal used, many heirs kings England; the same lord cardinal years together, not only write unto your caused his servants only sworn him, ambassadors resident with other princes his
there had been sovereign above him. — own name advertisements concerning your And also, whereas your grace our so graces affairs, being their charge; and
vereign lord and head, whom standeth the same his Letters wrote many things his
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375] STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII. 1529. —Proceedings against [376
own mind, without your graces pleasure being executors, refuse meddle. —18. Also, the known, concealing divers things which had been said lord cardinal constrained all ordinaries necessary for them to know ; But also caused England yearly compound with him, else them to write their Advertisements unto him : will usurp half the whole their juris and of the same Letters he used to conceal for diction prevention, not good order
the compassing of his purposes many things the diocess, but extort treasure for there both from your other counsellors, and from never poor arch-deacon England, but yourself also. -13. Also, where good hospitality that paid yearly him portion his
hath been used kept houses and places living. —ig. Also, the said lord cardinal hath Religion this realm, and many poor people not only his untrue suggestion the Pope,
thereby relieved, the said hospitality and relief shamefully slandered many good religious now decayed and not used; and com houses, and good virtuous men dwelling
monly reported that the occasion thereof because the said lord cardinal hath taken such
then, but also suppressed reason thereof above houses religion; and where, by
so
such religious houses, such yearly and con number: and thereupon hath caused divers
impositions the ruiers the said houses,
authority his Buil, should not suppress
any house that had more men reli-ion in riors, for his visitation, his authority number, above the number hath
well for his favour making abbots, and
and yet, nevertheless, taketh yearly suppressed divers houses that had above the
tinual charges, they not able keep hos offices found verdict, untruly, that the pitality they used do; which great religious persons, suppressed, had volunta
many vagabonds, beg rily forsaken their said houses, which was un gars and thieves. —14. Also, where the said trüe, and hath caused open perjury
cause that there
lord cardinal said, before the suppression committed, the high displeasure Almighty such Houses hath suppressed, that the God. —20. Also, the said lord cardinal hath
possessions them should set farm examined divers and many matters the among your lay-subjects, after such reason Chancery, after Judgment thereof given the
laws; and
have been put from their lawful possession their lands and tenements. And, such means, hath brought the more party the
able yearly rent they should well thereupon common law, subversion your
live, and keep good hospitality; and now the made some persons restore again
demain possessions the said houses, since party condemned, that they had
the suppression them, hath been surveyed, virtue the Judgment the common law. mete, and measured the acre, and now –21. Also, the said lord cardinal hath granted set above the value the old rent; and also many injunctions writ, and the parties never such were farmers covent-seal, and called thereunto, nor hill put against them. copy-holders put out, and moved their
farms, else compelled pay new fines, con
trary equity and conscience. —15. Also, the said lord cardinal, sitting among the lords,
And, reason thereof, divers your subjects
and other your most honourable council,
used himself that any man would shew his
mind according his duty, contrary the
opinion the said cardinal, he would take wrongs. —22. Also, the said lord cardinal,
him with accustomable words, that they were better hold their peace than speak, that would hear man speak, but one
augment his great riches, hath caused divers pardons granted the Pope suspended, which could not be revived till that the said lord cardinal were rewarded, and also have
two great personages, that would have
all the words himself, and consumed much time yearly pension the said pardon. —23. Also, with fair tale. —16. Also, the said lord cardi the said lord cardinal, not regarding your laws
nal his ambition and pride, hath hindered nor justice, his extort power, hath put out
and undone many your poor subjects for want dispatchment matters; for would no man should meddle but himself. Inso.
divers and many farmers his lands, and also patents the archbishoprick York, and bi shoprick Winchester, and the abby St.
much, that hath been affirmed many wise Albans, which had good and sulficient grant men, that ten the most wise, and most ex thereof your laws. -24. Also, the same lord
pert men England, were not sufficient cardinal many times when any houses re convenient time order the matters that he ligion have been void, hath sent his officers
would retain himself: and many times thither, and with crafty persuasions hath in deferred the ending matters, because that duced them compromit their election him. sutors should attend and wait upon him, where And that, before ere named confirmed
might
had small pleasure that house any them, and his servants received replenished with sutors. -17. Also, much great goods them, that manner
the said lord cardinal, his authority lega hath been the undoing the house. —25. time, hath used, any spiritual man having any Also, his authority legatine, the same lord riches substance, deceased, hath taken cardinal bath visited the most part the reli their goods his own; reason whereof gious houses and colleges this your realm, their Wills not performed and one mean hath taken then the twenty-fifth part
had, put them fear that were made their livelihood, the great extortion your
sutors this your realm before himself, where and divers his servants have gotten much riches, and your subjects suffered great
the other execution
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377 STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII. 1529. —Cardinal Wolsey. [375
subjects, and derogation of your laws and pre which ready proved. —33. Also, the rogative; and no law to bear him so to do. — said lord cardinal's officers have divers times 26. Also, when matters have been near at compelled your subjects serve him with carts
Judgment by process at your common law, the for carriages. And also his servants have same lord cardinal hath not only given and taken both corn and cattel, fish, and all other sent injunctions to the parties, but also sent victuals your graces price under, though for your judges, and expressly by threats com had been for your grace, which contrary manding them to defer the Judgment, to the the laws. -34. Also, the said lord cardinal evident subversion of your laws, if the judges hath misused himself your most honourable would so have ceased. —27. Also, whereas nei court, keeping great estate there ther the bishoprick of York, nor Winchester, your absence, your grace would have done,
nor the abby of St. Albans, nor the profit of you had been there present your own per his legation, nor the benefit of the chancery, son. —35. Also, his servants, virtue your nor his great pension out of France, nor his commission under your broad seal him
wards, and other inordinate taking could not suffice hita, he hath made his son Winter to spend 2700l. by the year, which he taketh to his own use, and giveth him not past 200l. yearly
them given, hath taken cattel, and other victual, low price your purveyors have done for your grace your prerogative, against the laws your realm. --36. Also, where
to live upon. —28. Also, where the said lord hath been accustomed that your purveyors for
St. Albans 300
suffered
be hurt offended; and upon that condition, Star-Chamber, that they nor other for them
other, was admitted your grace should make labour, legate within this your realm, which con directly indirectly, dition he hath broken, well known all your gracious favour
cardinal did first sue unto your grace to have
your assent to be legate de latere, he promised
and solemnly protested before your majesty,
and before the lords both spiritual and tempo the lord cardinal had the room
ral, that he would nothing do or attempt by your said purveyors could not
virtue of legacy, that should contrary him and his officers, take any wheat within your gracious prerogative regality, the the said town liberties. —37. Also he hath damage prejudice the jurisdiction any divers times given injunction your servants, ordinary, and that his legacy man should that have been for causes before him the
and
your subjects. And when that made this presumptuous intent for any subject. –38. Also,
promise, was busy his suit Rome,
visit the clergy England, both exempt and
not exempt. —29. Also, upon the suit the
said lord cardinal Rome, have his autho Chester, and afterwards his power and rity legatine, made untrue surmise the might, contrary right, committed the said Pope's holiness against the clergy your
realm, which was, that the regular persons the said clergy had given themselves repro
bum sensum; which words St. Paul writing the Romans applyed abominable sin; which slander your Church England, shall for ever remain the register Rome against the clergy
John Stanley the prison Fleet the space one year, until such time compelled
this your realm. —30. Also, the said lord displeasure taken his heart, made himself cardinal had the more part the goods Dr. monk Westminster, and there died. —39. Smith, late bishop London, bishop Savage Also, time your grace being Albans,
York, Mr. Dalby, archdeacon Richmond, according the ancient custom used within Mr. Tornyers, Dr. Rothal, late bishop of Dur your verge, your clerk the market doing his
ham, and Dr. Fox, late bishop Winchester,
contrary their wills and your laws and justice.
–31. Also, the Oyer and Terminer York,
proclamation was made, that every man should
put their bills for extortion ordinaries,
and when divers bills were put against the gates your honourable household, and also
officers the said lord cardinal extortion, the market-place within the town Al for taking 12d. the pound for probation bans, ancient custom hath been used; testaments, whereof divers bills were found be and the lord cardinal, hearing the same, pre fore justice Fitz-Herbert, and other commis sumptuously, and not like subject, caused the sioners, the same lord cardinal removed the aforesaid prices which were sealed with your same indictments into the chancery Certio graces seal, accustomably used for the same, rari, and rebuked the same Fitz-Herbert for be taken off, and wodown the said mar the same cause. —32. Also, the said lord Car ket-place where they were up, and the dinal hath busied and endeavoured himself same place own prices sealed with crafty and nutrue tales make dissention and his seal, and would, had not been letted, debate amongst your nobles your realm, semblable manner used your seal standing
your honourable household have had yearly
out your town and liberty 400 quarters wheat, truth
that since abbot there,
the said lord cardinal did call before him sir
John Stanley, knight, which had taken farm covent-seal the abbot and covent
the said sir John release his covent seal one Leghe Adlington, which married one Lark's daughter, which woman the said lord cardinal kept, and had with her two children. Whereupon the said John Stanley, upon
office, did present unto your officers your most honourable household the prices all
manner verge; and
victuals, within the precinct the
officers
was commanded your said set the said prices both the
any manner way your grace, obtain
pardon, which was
of
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379] STATE TRIALS, 20 Henry VIII. 1529–Proceedings against [380 upon your graces gates; and also would of his reign amongst the students and scholars of
presumptuous mind, have openly set in the the same,
stocks within your said town your clerk of your and opinions,
market. By which presumption and usurpa informed
tion your grace may perceive, that in his heart said two bishops that behalf, expresly inhi he hath reputed himself to be equal with your bited and commanded them no wise so to
royal majesty. —40. Also, the said lord cardi do. By means whereof the same errors (as nal, of further pompous and presumptuous they affirmed) crept more abroad, and took mind, hath enterprised join and imprint the greater place: saying furthermore, that was cardinals hat under your arms your coin not their defaults that the said heresics
groats, made your city York, which like were not punished, but the said lord car
dinal, and that was reason any blame lack should be arrected unto then for his of
Whereby evidently appeareth
fence. that
deed hath not been seen have been done any subject within your realm before this time.
Also,
41. where one sir Edward
Jones, clerk, Bucking am, the 18th year your most noble reign,
F.
let his said parsonage with tythes, and other
profits the same one Wm. Johnson
indentures for certain years, within which years
the dean the said cardinal's college Ox
ford, pretended title certain portion
tythes within the said parsonage, supposing your most royal majesty, that the lord cardinal
Crowley the county
the said lord cardinal, besides
other his
the said portion belong the parsonage Chichley, which was appropriated the priory
his outragious pride hath greatly shadowed long season your graces honour, which
possessed the said portion, time out mind: whereupon subpoena was directed the said Johnson appear before the said lord cardinal
Hampton-Court; where without any bill, the said lord cardinal committed him the
and treasure without measure, hath griev ously oppressed your poor subjects, with manifold crafts bribery and extortion, that the commonwealth this your graces realin thereby greatly decayed and impoverished:
Fleet, where remained the space twelve and also his cruelty, iniquity, affection and
would not depart with the partiality, hath subverted the due course and the last, upon recog order your graces laws, the undoing
weeks, because
said portion and
nizance made, that
the said lord cardinal wheresoever he was com your most royal majesty therefore your manded, was delivered out the Fleet. excellent goodness towards the weal this Howbeit, yet the said portion kept your realm, and subjects the same, set from him, that dare not deal with it. —42. such order and direction upon the said lord
Also, where one Martin Docowra had lease
the mannor Balsal the county War
wick, for term certain years, injunction
came him out the Chancery, writ, upon ded for, that never have any power, juris- pain 1000l. that should avoid the pos diction, authority, hereafter trouble, vex, session the same mannor, and suffer sir Geo. and impoverish the commonwealth this your Throgmorton, knt. take the profits the realm, hath done heretofore, the great same mannor, the time the matter depending hurt and damage every man almost, high
the Chancery between the lord St. Johns,
and the said Docowra were discust; and yet the said Docowra never made answer the
law. —43. Also, whereas the parliament
and low. Which for your grace doing, will
Chancery, never was called into the Chance
majesty long
endure pleasure
for that matter. And now of late he received the like injunction, upon pain 2000l. contrary the course the common
health,
most desire.
God, your and
hearts
should appear before great number your loving people;—Please
ii.
daily pray, their duty
for the prosperous estate
Almighty God,
your most royal
honour and good
our sovereign lord chamber, and the open parliament, commu king Henry More," Norfolk, Char.
nication and devices were had and moved, wherein mention was, incident, made matters touching heresies, and erroneous sects.
was spoken and reported one bishop there being present, and confirmed good number the same bishops presence the lords
spiritual and temporal then assembled, and two
the said bishops were minded and desired repair unto the University Cambridge, for examination, reformation, and correction
such errors then seemed, and were reported
Suffolk, Tho. Dorset, Exeter, G. Shrews bury, Fitzwater, Jo. Oxenford, Northum land, Darcy, Rochford, W. Mountjoy, Wm. Sandys, Wm. Fitz-William, Henry Gulde ford, Anthony Fitz-Herbert, John Fitz-James. ”
Concerning these signatures, lord Coke, Inst. 95), observes “So these Articles began subscribed Thos. More, lord chan
cellor, and ended with the two judges the law. ”
well touching the Lutheran sect otherwise; the lord cardinal
the good minds and intents the
offences,
disturber of due and direct correction of here sies; being highly the danger, and peril
the whole body and good Christian people
heinous
hath been the
impeacher
and
this your realm. —44. Finally, forasmuch the aforesaid articles evidently declared
Tykeford, lately suppressed, where truth,
the parsons Crowley have been peaceably avarice and ravenous appetite, have riches
most highly regarded, and his insatiable
cardinal, may the terrible example others beware offend your grace and your laws hereafter: and that provi
the
“Subscribed the 1st day 21st year the reign
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381] STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII: 1529. —Cardinal Wolsey. [382
These Articles being agreed to by the whole house were presented to the king by the lords, and then sent down to the lower house: where
insomuch, that wrote the king, humbly, his knees, with weeping eyes, that the college Oxford might stand, and importuned
Tho. Cromwel (obtaining the place of a bur Cromwel this purpose, since they are
gess) so wittily defended the cardinal his master, manner, saith lie, “Opera manuam tuarum. ” that no Treason could be laid to his charge. But Cromwel returned him comfort herein, Yet could not the resisting of this brunt, nor saying, “the king was determined dissolve even the gracious Messages received frequently them, though whether meant restore them from the king, chear up the cardinal. For as again, and found them his own name,
he found the Pope had now a long while neg knew not; but wishes him be content, &c. ”
York, i. o
moved so much compassion, as not only he, means, which also signified the king; but, by his intreaty, mistress Anne Bolen, who thereupon sent him thousand
whom the cardinal had in vain importuned to with which and train, reduced now about intercede for him, also sent him several tokens; 160 persons, set forth, giving the way whereof one was a ruby, wherein the king's much alms, and not few other arguments image was curiously engraven, a gift heretofore devotion, which also made him gracious with
cardinal's, together gracious the people, who resorted from ad of the §. with a mes places
Butts, physician; joining, him. And thus with slow and un sage delivered by his
* That his highness was not angry with him in willing removes, came Cawood castle his heart, which he should know shortly. ” near York, about the end Sept. 1530, where Whereupon the cardinal recovered his prepared according the antient custom, health, for the king, so confirming his pro installed with much ceremony about mises, sealed his pardon, Feb. 12, and three month after access the choire, being
lected to give the king any satisfaction, which howsoever, the traffick these and other certainly was the only way to procure the car lands, well negociating his masters busi dinal's restitution, and that, for the rest, no ness, Cromwel shewed that dexterity, which evident sign of the king's relenting appeared, last won him much credit, both with the king so being not able to support any longer his and his principal counsellors. And now the
many
being
news whereof being brought to the king's ears, excuse for retarding his journey, but want
Fwhe.
sup
he fell
dangerously
sick. The cardinal
commanded
had
days after, by letters patents, restored him to the archbishoprick of York. Moreover, he
sent him money, plate, rich hangings, and fur niture for his house and chapel, in that quan
till then forbidden. But whether the solem
nity this action was thought our king unreasonable, and misbecoming one dis
grace; that otherwise the cardinal had cast forth some discontented words, which were re lated again the king; here certainly began
tity, as the cardinal was for the present much
recovered: hoping also, that since he had re
signed his house called York-house, but after his final ruine. Which, his enemies (at this
ward by the king styled the Mannor of West minster, now Whitehall, that his punishment
ended there, and himself now upon terms of regaining the king's favour. The confidence
distance) did with more boldness and advan tage procure, had less means repair
himself. Insomuch, that without being able discover prevent their machinations,
was forced suffer all that could be either to the king, that, for his health's sake, truly, almost falsly surmised against him.
Ncither had other hope, but that the punish ments had already endured, might accept ed as an intire satisfaction for all his offences.
reof also made him to be an humble
ight
we have leave to remove to Richmond
m
house, the use ofwhich he had received in ex
change from the king, for that his sumptuous
palace which he built, and called by the name of Hampton-court.
The Cardinal sent to Bishoprick York.
The Cardinal arrested Treason.
York, High
And now Cardinal Woolsey, seems, had
tried his utmost skill for recovering the with one Walter Welsh, gentleman the
kings favour; whereof also some hope was given him his being permitted remove
Richinond. But his enemies suspected would make use this nearness, obtain cess the king, they laboured instantly
send him the north. Whereinsthey pre vailed length, obtaining further, that the Revenues the bishoprick Winchester, and abbey Saint Albans, also some other places, his, forfeited the Praemunice, might applied part the kings servants;
pension only out Winchester, being re served the cardinal. The revenues also of
his two colleges were torn and divided, which grieved him more than any other affliction:
kings privy chamber, came the kings com mand Cawood, arrest the cardinal,
And now his stallation grew near, when the earl Northumberland, warden the marches,
used that diligence and secresie, had placed his guards the hall, be
wherein
that
fore any escaped advertise the cardinal thereof. Neither did he, the earls coming
stairs, receive him other terms than those guest, till entring into private chaumber
together, the earl low and troubled voice arrested him High Treason. The dismayed
and pensive cardinal stayed while before answered, but last recovering spirits, de manded the sight the earls commission, pro testing that otherwise would not obey; urging further, that was member the
a
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3S3] STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII. 1520. —Proceedings against [384
college of cardinals at Rome, and so excempt Kingston came again comfort him, but the from princes jurisdiction. But while the cardinal, finding now that death would dis earl replied, that might not shew his com charge him Trials, but that before God, mission, sir Walter Welsh, who had now ar spake this effect:
rested Dr. Augustine the cardinals physician, comes in, and confirms what the earl had said.
The cardinal believing, this time, that they
were good earnest, yields Walter
Welsh, the kings servant, and not the ‘me most humbly the king, desiring him earl; whom said would not submit call to remembrance all matters that have himself, before was better satified his au ‘past betwixt us, and specially about queen thority. Which whether did out stub ‘Catharine, and then shall his grace know bornness the earl, who had been heretofore ‘whether have offended him. He prince educated his house, out despight
mistress Anne Bolen, who (he might conceive)
had put this affront upon him, finding means
employ her antient sutor take revenge
both their names, doth not appear me
my author. Howsoever, protested
no way faulty his allegiance. Dr. Augus could never dissuade him from it. There
tine, whose offence yet doth not appear me, “fore master Kingston, warn you, ever you was dispatched London, the posture his council (as for your wisdom you are traitor, his legs tied his horse. But the ‘meet) that well assured and advised cardinal had some respite though yet com ‘what you put his head, for you shall never
prepare for his journey; which length that deliberate manner,
removed slowly before from the
‘put out again. '
After which words, Cavendish hath them,
manded began
whom, being the steward
began exhortation take heed the him. In Lutherans, “by the example those Bohe
“Had served God diligently have ‘done the king, would not have given me “over my gray hairs; but this my just re “ward. Notwithstanding, pray commend
royal courage but rather than will want miss any part his will pleasure, will
‘endamage the loss one half his realm. “For, assure you, have often kneeled before
him, sometimes the space three hours, was ‘persuade him from his will and appetite, but
that king,
moved now more slowly somuch that had not the earl
Shrewsbury, mia, lest they should likewise subvert the secu the kings lar power. ” But the prosecuting this
houshold, the earl Northumberland was discourse his speech failed him, did his
commanded deliver him, till the kings fur breath presently after, insomuch that he
ther pleasure were known, told him, that the died, and was buried there the Abbey
king commanded should used kindly, Church, Nov. 30, before day. And not, where
one whom highly favoured; probable, had begun monument for himself, long
that the afflicted cardinal would have fallen since, wherein appears our Records
under the burthen his own griefs. Further
more, the earl assured him the king's part,
that, though highness could less than
put him his Trial, yet that was more for the satisfying some persons, than out mis
had not omitted his own image, which one Benedetto, statuary Florence, took hand
1524, and continued till 1529, receiving for much was already done 4250 ducats. The design whereof was glorious, that exceeded far that Henry Nevertheless, find the cardinal, when this was finished, did purpose
make tomb for Henry but dying this manner, king Henry made use much
trust his traiterous doings.
Speech,
The Cardinal's last
and Death.
And thus Sheffield castle,
night, when wind-colick, which ended
fort
staid
dysentery, took him. which state, Wm. tomb the cardinal partake the same fortune
Kingston, captain the king's guard, and con stable the Tower, attended with yeomen the guard (all them formerly servants
with college, being assumed the king;
news the cardinal's death being brought
the cardinal) did find him. that, notwith our king, did much afflict him, that wish
standing the many incouragements the earl, seconded sir. Wm.
Kingston (who his
had cost him twenty thousand pounds upon condition had lived. Howbeit omitted not enquire about one thousand and five hundred pounds, which the cardinal had lately got without that the king could ima gine how. that, appeared borrow
knees saluted him) the cardinal remained still
sick and comfortless. Neither did avail him,
that Wm. Kingston (on the king's part) gave
him many gracious words, adding furthermore,
that should make no more haste than stood edit divers persons, might perchance sus with his health and convenience. For the cardi pect the remainder some his an nal became still more and more dejected. Not cient acquisitions. -
withstanding, considered that delay would but argue guiltiness, could, proceeded
And thus concluded that great cardinal.
man whom ability arts, and industry were equally eminent, though, for being employed
ways, they became dan power active and
journey the best he till he came
Leicester abbey, where feever, complicate
with his former disease, seizing him, lan gerous instruments
guished, not without manifest, signs mutable times.
end. Being thus upon bed, William means govern not only the chief affairs
found fit, and called his. Thus did the
both which yet remain still imperfect. The
wholly ambitious
these arts yet found
his a he on
;
in he to to
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385] STATE TRIALS, 26 HENRY VIII. 1535. —Sir Thomas More. [386
this kingdom, but of Europe; there being no home. Wherewith again served the Potentate, which, in his turn, did not seek to king's turn, made him think the less
him; and as this procured him divers pensions,
so, when he acquainted the king there with, his
manner was, so cunningly to disoblige that
prince who did see him last, as he made way
thereby oftentimes to receive as much on the
other side. But not of secular princes alone,
but even of the pope and clergy of Rome he seemed exhaust all. Since becometh
was no little courted ; of which therefore he princes like good husbandmen when they
made especial use, while he drew them to se
cond him on most occasions. His birth being
otherwise so obscure and mean, as no man had
everstood so single : for which reason also,
his chief endeavour was not to displease any
great person, which yet could not secure him breaking As for his learning, (which was against the divers pretenders of that time. For
as things passed through hands, the who failed their suits generally hated him,
which, though did but exasperate
nature, yet this good resultance followed, that
just
his king, question disserv
far from exact) consisted chiefly the subti lities the Thomists, wherewith the king and himself did more often weary than satisfy each other. His style missives was rather copious than eloquent, yet ever tending the point. Briefly, true (as Polydore observes) that
man ever did rise with fewer virtues,
true, that few that ever fell from high place had lesser crimes objected against him Though yet Polydore (for being his first coming into England committed prison by him, we have said) may suspected
partial author. that probability
might have subsisted longer, when either his pride and immense wealth had not made him obnoxious, and suspected the king, that
other than women had opposed him Who
made him take the more care
whereof also obtained the reputation
Publick hearing causes. For
no body, his reason carried him. And thus
loved
using his own authority. One error seemed
common licity
both, which was that such multi offices and places were invested
lm. For
dinal particular, derogated little
drew much envy upon the car
from the regal authority, while one man alone
sow their grounds, which scatter, and not
throw one place. He was great dissembler, for qualified person order
ing his businesses for the Inost part cautious got more keeping his word than
was useful minister oints, where there was
ing the Roman church;
which (at what Price soever) find was zealous servant;
hoping thereby aspire the papacy,
whereof (as the factious times then were) seemed more capable than any, had not
inmoderately affected
was not hard judge
prince, who was ablest
Whereby also his inclinations. That help him this dig
they are vigilant and close enemies,
for
the most part, they carry their businesses that manner, they leave fewer advantages against themselves, than men do. conclu
sion, cannot assent those who thought him happy for enjoying the untimely compassion
the people little before his end, can not but account principal felicity, that dur ing his favour with the king, things succeed
help, though could not obtain that supreme
dignity passionately desired, yet pre doubted whether the impressions gave, did
nity, being ever preferred him, which there
fore was the ordinary bait which the empe
ror and French king one after the other, did
catch him. And, upon these terms, doubt
ed not to convey vast treasures out of this
kingdom, especially unto Rome, where had
not few cardinals his devotion. By whose
better than afterwards, though yet may
vailed himself much their favour,
kind absolute power spiritual matters
got not occasion divers irregularities which were observed to follow.
MoRE, knight, Lord Chancellor 26 Henry VIII. 1535. [Hall. Lord Herbert's Life
30. The Trial Sir THoyt
England, for High Treason, denying the King's Supremacy:
Hen. VIII.
More's Life
A BILL being preferred parliament, Nov. 1534, attaint Elizabeth Barton, and several
Sir Thomas More. ]
ressed him compliance, yet the chancellor influenced the king far, that the matter Misprision was dropt. —Sir Thomas, was also
others, High-Treason, bishop Fisher and
Thomas More were also brought into for examined other times the lord chancel
Misprision Treason for the refusing the lor, dukes Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Secre
Oath Succession—says my lord Herbert. tary, and others
The saine author avows the Bill did pass;
but Thomas's great-grandson, his Life,
shews the contrary, and that notwithstanding
the archbishop Canterbury, the lord chan being loth aggravate the king's displeasure,
cellor, duke Norfolk, and secretary Crom would say more than that the Statute was well, the king's command, went him and like two-edged sword, for spoke against
WOL.
pressed him, with think of, own the and open terms,
plainly deny but
the privy-council, who the arguments they could king's Supremacy direct
i. by
sir
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of o
387]
STATE TRIALS, 26. Henry VIII. 1535. -Trial qf Sir T. More [383
should his body; and
the cause the death assented shoul his soul. Those Exami
Cromwell, Thomas Beade, John Tregonnel, &c. whom professed had given over
purchase the death
nations being over, Richard Rich, newly made
thoughts titles either popes
princes, given him,
solicitor general, and afterwards lord Rich,
with sir Richard Southwell, and Mr. Palmer, ille second time before the lord chancellor, Scoretary Cromwell's man, were sent the the duke Suffolk, earl Wiltshire, and king take away his books. Rich, pretend
ing friendship him, and protesting had
no commission talk with him about the for
mer affair the Supremacy, put case
hin thus: were enacted
Presently after the Indictument was read, the lord chancellor and the duke Norfolk spoke him this effect; “You see now how
parliament that Richard Rich should king, and that
grievously you have offended his majesty; yet very merciful, that you will lay aside your obstinacy, and change your opinion, we Sir Thomas More answered, that he should hope you may obtain pardon and favour his offend said so, because was bound sight. ' But sir Thomas stoutly replied, “Most the Act; but that this was casus levis. Where noble lords, have great reason return
may continue the mind am in, through his grace, unto death. ’—Then having intimation given that might say what thought
should Treason any body deny what offence were contravene that Act
upon Thomas said,
higher Case: suppose
liament, Quod Deus non
were Treason contravene, whether were
not offence say according the said
Act Rich replied, yea; but said withal, will his own Defence, began thus: “When
ropose middle Case, because this too
consider the length my Accusation, and what heinous matters are laid my charge,
am struck with fear, lest my memory and un derstanding, which are both impaired, together with my bodily health, through long indispo sition contracted my imprisonment, should
would propose
were enacted par Deus, and that
though the whole world should being fully determined only
thers, before whom compared that Oath two-edged sword, before observed.
thanks your honours for this your great civility, but beseech Almighty God, that
serve God.
igh the king, you know, constituted su preme head the Church upon earth; why should not you, master More, accept him for such you would me, were made king
the aforesaid supposition. More answered,
the Case was not the same, because, said he, now fail me far, make me incapable
parliament can make king, and depose making such ready Answers my Defence, him, and that every parliament-man may otherwise might have done. ’
give consent thereunto, but that sub The Court being sensible his weakness,
ject cannot bound the case ordered chair brought in, wherein Supremacy. Quia consensum Parlia might seat himself, which did accordingly,
mentum praebere non potest (so, says my lord
Herbert, my copy not mistaken. ) quanquam Rer acceptus Anglia, plu
rima tamen Partes ertere idem non affirmant. Sir Thomas, having continued prisoner the Tower somewhat more than twelvemonth,
for he was committed about the middle of April 1534, and was brought his Trial
and then went thus “This my Indictment, mistake not, consists four principal Heads, each which purpose, God willing, answer
order. As the first Crime objected against me, that have been enemy out stubborn
ness mind the king's second Marriage; confess, always told his majesty my opinion, according the dictates my conscience, which
neither ever would, nor ought have con leaning his staff, because was much cealed: for which am far from thinking
the 7th May, 1535, went into the Court
weakened his imprisonment, but appeared
with cheerful and composed countenance. The persons constituted try him, were,
Thomas Audley, lord chancellor, Thomas duke Norfolk, John Fitz-James, lord chiefjus
tice, John Baldwin, Richard Leicester, sir John Port, John Spelman, Walter Luke, Anthony Fitz-Herbert.
The Indictment was very long, but where
procure copy
said general,
myself guilty High Treason, that the con trary, being required give my opinion
great prince affair much import ance, upon which the peace the kingdom
depended; should have basely flattered him, and my own conscience, had not spoke the
that could laid rious malefactor; and
then indeed might justly most wicked subject, and God. have offended
can an offence tell contained the Crimes one's mind freely when his sovereign puts the the charge any noto question him; suppose have been suffi
ney-General; and
secmed plainly
Succession, already
this, his double Examination the Tower was
could never learn;
the king herein;
Thounas professed could scarce remember the third part what was objected therein
against him. was read aloud the Attor
was long, that
Thomas's mortal sin his refusing the Oath
mentoned. —To prove alledged against him, the first before Secretary
truth thought
have been esteemed perfidious Traitor
ciently punished already for the fault, the
great afflictions have endured, the loss
my estate, and my tedious imprisonment, which
has continued already near fifteen months. The second Charge against me That have vio lated the Act made the last parliament: that being prisoner, and twice examined,
would not, out malignaut, perfidious, obsti nate and traitorous mind, tell them my opinion,
in
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389] STATE TRIALS, 26 Henry VIII. 1535. -for High Treason. [390
never said nor done any thing against it; nei ther can any one word action mine al ledged, produced, make me culpable.
Nay, this own was then my Answer their
whether the king was Supreme Head of the his own mind. God my witness, and Church or not ; but confessed then, that I had hope will save my soul, gave him other nothing to do with that Act, as to the justice answer; and this presume breach the or injustice of because had benefice laws. -As the principal Crime objected the Church yet then protested, that had against me, that should say upon my Exami
honours, that
hereafter, but
Saviour, and
world. wish
does not keep me alive, desire not live; lowing disallowing that Act; and therefore,
would think the bitter Passion my exit out
nothing else our Blessed this miserable
any thing else his conscience
come now the third principal Arti
and perfidious practices against that Statute, the words therein alledge, because wrote,
conscience, world; especially
the whole not the
E. law, late the same
encouraged
any thing you other would have with
than
pray were
may never see God's face, which, otherwise, imprecation would
injury his prince and country for here sincerely protest, that never revealed any man
occasion some sedition and great
guilty gain the whole world. ’
ooli
cle my Indictment, which am accused Tower, truly and sincerely was, added: of malicious attempts, traitorous endeavours, “In good faith, Mr. Rich, am more concern
while the Tower, divers packets
for your perjury, than my own danger; and
must tell you, that neither myself, nor any body else my knowledge, ever took you
man such reputation, that any
bishop Fisher;
letters him vio
and
insist that these letters
whereby exhorted
him
court, which may
lye
Some my letters related only our private
affairs, about our old friendship and acquaint
ance: one them was answer his, wherein he desired me let him know what Answers
like obstinacy.
and read
the
matter of importance. You know that
acquitted
but
have been acquainted with your manner life
long time, your and conversation even from
youth the present juncture, for we lived the same parish; and you very well know,
either
because you say the bishop burnt them all, will here tell you the whole truth of the matter.
convinced
nation the Tower, That this Law was like two-edged sword; for consenting
should endanger my soul, and rejecting should lose my life: ’tis evidently concluded, you say, from this Answer, because Fisher made the like, that was the same conspiracy, To this reply, That my Answer there was con
body any harm, and this ditional, there were both danger either al
which know, would not transgress any like two-edged sword, seemed hard thing
law, become guilty any treasonable crime: should put upon me, who had never hither for this Statute, nor no other law the world to contradicted either word or deed. These
can punish any man for his silence, seeing they were my words; what the bishop answered,
can more than punish words deeds;
'tis God only that the judge the secrets our hearts. '
know not his Answer was like mine, did not proceed from any conspiracy ours, but from the similitude our learning and under
The Attorney General (Christopher Hales. ) standing. To conclude, sincerely avouch,
. Thomas, though spoke against
“Sir we have not one word that never word this law
deed yours object against you, yet we have any man living, though perhaps the king's ma your silence, which evident sign the jesty has been told the contrary. ’
malice your heart: because dutiful sub
being lawfully fuse to answer it. ”
asked this
question,
will re
There was little reply made this full Answer, Mr. Attorney, any body else;
Sir Thomas More. “Sir, my silence
sign any malice my heart, which the king
himself must own my conduct upon divers either words actions: nevertheless, set
occasions; neither doth convince any man the best gloss that could
of the breach the law; for maxim Mr. Rich was called
amongst the Civilians and Canonists, Qui tacet court upon oath, which
consentire videtur, that holds his peace, seems affirming what we have already related con
give his consent. And what you say, cerning conference between him and Tho fT that good subject will refuse give direct mas the Tower. To which sir Thomas
answer; really think every good subject, except
the duty
made answer, “If were man, my lords, that
will than man;
sion here offend his every body,
bad Christian, rather be more cautious
such
had regard
subject obey God
my oath, had had occa this time, well known
criminal; and this oath, Mr. Rich, which you have taken, true, then
good name and the Temple, where made upon my Examinations concerning the you was educated, Can, therefore seem
Oath Supremacy; and what wrote him upon was this, That had already settled my conscience, and him satisfy his according
likely your lordships, that should weighty affair this, act unadvisedly,
trust Mr. Rich, man had always mcan
the word Malice was what was principally in sisted on, and the mouths the whole court, though for proof body could produce
not
More having recited the face the Court
the discourse they had together the
am sorry am forced lay under the odium
speak you always very lying tongue,
great gamester, and character either there
upon the matter,
give evidence open immediately did,
I
I
to: is ofI toorI
i*. * ×
I heit as
of
in ofofno
by do beto to it Iittotobeto
no of
as to
all
it in noofofdoor ofasofin beIofnoIIIor
ofofa :
I to do to ofofI
to I of no it,
let do do ifof he byin is I
or in
inIby itan I
of Iaaa iftoI
totoof
a ofI to bein is
or to
; into toIIbetoas to of
is of
no orof
be
to
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a I
is
it or a of to no
in
so I it
to it, do
as is
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so
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to
to no
it in it,ofas
in
of Iin .
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aIa
beit tono in I
in
he
to Ito as Ibe a : beorif antoit byifto
of ofasatto orin as a toaIof
it he II
of
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no I
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of beif
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in
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in
391]
an opinion
honesty,
STATE TRIALS, 26 HENRY VIII. 1535. Trial of Sir T. More [392
reference his truth and This touched the reputation Mr. Rich very much before my sovereign the very quick, and was slur that could not
lord the king, whom am decply indebt effaced, without the utmost difficulty; and
for his manifold favours, any his noble the only way was, possible, pro and grave counsellors, that should only in duce substantial and creditable Witnesses to
part Mr. Rich, the secrets my conscience attest the contrary and therefore caused respect the king's Supremacy, the particu sir Rd. Southwell, and Mr. Palmer, who were
lar subject, and only point about which have been long pressed explain myself? which never did, nor never would reveal, when the
the same room with sir Thomas and Mr.
Rich when they conferred together,
sworn the words that passed between Act was once made, either the king himself, them. Whereupon Mr. Palmer deposed,
any his privy-counsellors, well known That was busy thrusting sir Tho
your honours, who have been sent upon mas's books into sack, that took no notice other account several times his majesty of their talk. ” And sir R. Southwell likewise
take care conveying his books away, gave ear their discourse. ’
asserted, but only cases put without any Charge the Jury. Whether
offensive circumstances; cannot justice challenged any the pannel, when they were said, that they were spoke maliciously, and returned serve, does not appear; but the where there no malice, there no offence. twelve persons whose Verdict his life now Besides, my lords, cannot think many re depended, were these Thomas Palmer, knt. werend bishops, many honourably person sir Tho. Peirt, knt. George Lovell, esq. Tho. ages, and many virtuous and learned men, Burbage, esq. Geoffry Chamber, Edw. Stock
proceed judg
me the Tower. refer
ments, my lords, whether this can seem credi ble any your lordships. -But supposing
your judg swore, “That because his business was only
what Mr. Rich has swore should be true, see
ing the words were spoke familiar and pri own Defence, the discrediting vate conversation, and that there was nothing Evidence; the Judge proceeded
Sir Thomas having urged other reasons his Mr. Rich's
give the
Thomas had
whom the parliament consisted the enact more, Jasper Leake, Wm. Browne, Tho. Bil ing that law, ever meant have any man lington, John Parnel, Rd. Bellaine, George punished with death, whom Malice could Stoakes, gents.
be found, taking the word Malitia for Malevo Now the Jury having withdrawn, scarce tentia; for Malitia taken general were out quarter hour before they re signification for any crime, there man can turned with their Verdict, which they found be free wherefore this word Maliciously the prisoner Guilty; upon which the lord chan far significant this Statute, the word For cellor, chief the Commission for this
cible that Forcible Entry; for that Trial, immediately began
case any enter peaceably, and puts his ad ment: which sir
versary out forcibly, offence; but enters forcibly, shall punished that Statute. —Besides, the unspeakable good ness his majesty towards me, who has becn
said
lord, who has dearly loved and trusted me, even from my first entrance into his royal ser vice, vouchsafing honour me with the dig
hereupon stopping his sentence, wherein had already proceeded part, asked Thomas. ‘What was able say the contrary
#. bim, ‘My lord, when
observing,
was concerned the
law, the practice such cases was ask the prisoner before Sentence, whether had any thing offer why Judgment should not pro
many ways my singular good and gracious nounced against him. ’ The lord chancellor
nity being one his privy-council, and has who presently made Answer these words:-
most generously promoted me offices great reputation and honour, and lastly that
lord high-chancellor, which honour never did any layman before, the same being the highest dignity this famous kingdom, and next the king's royal person, far beyond my merits and qualifications; honouring and exalting me his incomparable benignity, for these twenty years and upwards, heaping con tinual favours upon me and now last, my own humble request, giving me liberty dedicate the remainder Iny life the service
God for the better saving my soul, has been pieased discharge and free me from that weighty dignity; before which had still heaped more and more honours upon me: say, this his majesty's bounty, long and
plentifully conseried upon me, enough, my opinion, invalidate the scandalous accu
sation injuriously surmized and urged this man against me. '
‘For much as, my lords, this Indictment grounded upon act parliament, directly re- pugnant the laws God and Holy Church, the supreme government which,
art thereof, aw presume right belongs
temporal person may any take upon him, being what
the See Rome, which
special prerogative was granted the mout
our Saviour Christ himself St. Peter, and
the bishops Rome his successors only, whilst lived, and was personally present here
earth: therefore, amongst Catholic Christ ians, insufficient law, charge any Christian obey it. ’ And order the proof his
assertion, declared among other, things, That whereas this kingdom alone being but one member, and simall part the Church,
was not make particular law disagreeing
with the general law Christ's universal Ca tholic Church, more than the city London,
being but one member respect the whole
so
of
in of so
ifso of toso
so all
of
of
so
of at
all to
to toor I in
ed to
to
he
is to
he
as a
to to
no as
of
his
sir
of
*
to
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it as to
to
in so of to
at to in
of
he at
so
isin noa
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isso
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to
in
to
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to
in of to of
ofin of:
aain to
ofto
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do it,
to
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an sir to by
to
in to
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if
to to
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of
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to
be
393] STATE TRIALs, 26 Henry VIII. 1535–for Irgh Treason. [394
kingdom, might enact a law against an act of from thence drawn hurdle through the parliament, to be binding to the whole realm ; “city London Tyburn, there hanged so he shewed farther, That law was even con ‘till he should be half dead; that then he trary to the laws and statutes of the kingdom, “should cut down alive, his privy parts cut yet unrepealed, as might evidently be seen by “off, his belly ripped, his bowels burnt, his four Magna Charta, wherein are these words; Ec “quarters set over four gates the city, clesia Anglicana libera sit, & habeat omnia jura ‘and his head upon London-Bridge. ’
This was the Judgment pronounced upon this great man, who had deserved well both the king and kingdom, and for which Paulus prince, always take with great solemnity, at Jovius calls king Henry another Phalaris. their coronations. So great was Thomas's This scvere Sentence was afterwards, the zeal, that further alledged, that was worse king's pardon, changed beheading, because the kingdom England refuse obedience had borne the greatest office the kingdom; the See Rome, than for any child which mercy the king's, word being his natural parent: for St. Paul said the brought Thomas, merrily said, “God
received Sentence Death, spake thus with resolute and sedate aspect: “Well, seeing am condemned, God knows how justly, will freely speak for the disburdening my consci
integra, & libertates suas illaesas : and it is con trary also to that sacred Oath which the king's majesty himself, and every other Christian
Corinthians, have regenerated you, my forbid the king should use any more such mercy
children, Christ:" might that worthy Pope IRome, St. Gregory the Great, say
Englishmen, “Ye are my Children, because have given you everlasting Salvation for
St. Augustine and his followers, his immediate messengers, England first received the Chris tian faith, which far higher and better inhe
any my friends, and
bless
my
ence, what think this law. When per-> ritance than any carnal father can leave his ceived was the king's pleasure list out children: for son only generation, we from whence the Pope's authority was derived, are regeneration made the spiritual children confess studyed seven years together find
č.
posterity from such pardons. ” When had
Christ and the Pope. ” out the truth and could not meet with
f Here the Lord Chancellor took him up, and the works any one doctor, approved the
*said: “That seeing the bishops, Universities, Church, that avouch layman was,
and the most learned men the kingdom had could be the Head of the Church. ”
every
agreed that Act, was much wondered that Chancellor. “Would you esteemed wiser,
alone should stiffly stickle, and vehe or have sincerer conscience than all the mently argue there against it. ’ His Answer bishops, learned doctors, nobility and commons
was, “That the
Universities were
seemed make
reason why that thing should make any change hundred Holy and Catholick bishops for my
ofthis realm
number Bishops and
material his lordship More. am able produce against one
then, my lord, see bishop which you can produce your side,
my conscience for doubt not, but the
learned and virtuous men now alive, do not
speak only this realm, but Christen
dom, there are ten one my mind this
matter; but should take notice those
learned doctors and virtuous fathers that are
already dead, many whom are saints hea necessity the cause obliges me for ven, am sure there are far more, who all the the discharge my conscience and call while they lived thought his case God witness, that nothing but this has ex now. And therefore, my lord, not think cited me to it. ’
myself bound conform my conscience the After this the Judges kindly offering him their counsel one kingdom, against the general favourable audience had any thing else
consent of all Christendom. ”
Here seems the Lord Chancellor not will
say answered most mildly and charitably, have more say, but that the blessed Apostle St. Paul, we read the Acts the
ing take the whole load his condemnation
upon himself, asked open court the advice Apostles, was present, and consenting
the sir John Fitz-James, the lord chiefjustice protomartyr Stephen, keeping their clothes
England, Whether the Indictment was valid that stoned him death, and yet they are no who wisely answered thus: “My lords, all, both now holy saints heaven, and there shall St. Gillian' (for that was always his oath) continue friends eternity; verily trust,
must needs confess that the act par and shall therefore heartily pray, that albeit liament not unlawful, then the Indictment your lordships have been earth my Judges
not my conscience invalid. ” Some have condemnation, yet that may hereafter wrote, That the Lord Chancellor should here meet joyfully together Heaven our ever upon say, Quid adhuc desideramus testimonium, lasting salvation; and God preserve you, espe reus est mortis, and then presently proceeded cially my sovereign lord the king, and grant him
give Sentence this effect: ‘That should faithful counsellors. ”
London, Sir Thomas, after his Condemnation, was ‘the help William Kingston, sheriff, and conducted from the bar the Tower, axe
carried back the Tower
opinion and against one realm, the consent Christendom for thousand years. ”
Norfolk. “Sir Thomas, you shew your obsti nate and malicious mind. ”
More. “Noble sir, malice obsti nacy that makes me say this, but the just
betois*Ibyof
in he of oftoin to I by
toto
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so of to
395] STATE TRIALs, 26 Henry VIII. 1535–Trial of Fisher, Bishop [396 being carryed before- him, with the edge to and demanded some Papers she said she had
wards him.
Sir Thomas More having remained a prisoner
in the Tower about a week after his Sentence,
left his hands, when was lord chancellor, whom said, “Good woman, have pati ence but for an hour, and the king will rid me of
on the 6th of July early in the morning, his old the care have for those Papers, and every
friendsir. Thomas Pope came to him with a thing else. ' Another woman followed him,
message from the king and council, to acquaint
him, That his Execution was appointed to be
before nine that morning. Whereupon sir
Thomas said, “He thanked him heartily for
good news. have been,’ says he, “much
obliged his majesty for the benefits and ho
nours has most bountifully conferred upon Lieutenant, ‘Pray, Sir, see me safe up and me; yet am more bound his grace my coming down, me shift for myself. ” assure you, for confining me this place, Being about speak the people, was where have had convenient place and oppor interrupted the sheriff, and thereupon he
tunity put me mind my last end.
am most bound him, that his majesty pleased rid me out the miseries this
wretched world. ” Then Thomas Pope ac
only desired the people pray for him, and bear witness he died the faith of the Catholic
Church, faithful servant both God and the king. Then kneeling, repeated the Miserere Psalm with much devotion; and rising up, the Executioner asked him forgiveness. He
quainted him, was the king's should not use many words
pleasure the place
ac kissed him, and said, “Pluck thy spirits,
execution. “Sir," said he, “you
quaint me with the king's pleasure; for had
well
man, and not afraid thine office my neck very short, take heed therefore thou strike not awry for saving thine honesty. " Lay
crying, had done her much wrong when he was lord chancellor, whom said, “I very
well remember the Cause, and were decide now, should make the same Decree. ” When he came the scaffold, seemed
ready fall; whereupon said merrily the
otherwise designed the people; but
conform myself
And beseech you, sir, you would become tioner stay till had put his beard aside, for suitor his majesty, that my daughter Mar. that had committed no Treason. Thus he garet may attend my funeral. ’ To which Pope suffered with much chearfulness; his head was replyed, That the king was willing his wife and taken off one blow, and was placed upon children, and other friends should present. London-Bridge, where having continued for
have made speech matters not, and am ready
Sir Thomas Pope being about take leave,
some months, and being about be thrown into the Thames make room for others, his daughter Margaret bought inclosed
his highness's pleasure. ing his head upon the block, bid the execu
Whereupon
could not refrain from tears.
Thomas More said, ‘Let not your spirits
cast down, for hope we shall see one another leaden box, and kept for relique.
better place, where we shall free live said, when news his death was brought and love eternal bliss. ’ And divert Pope's the king who was that time playing grief, took his urinal and shook saying tables, Anne Bullen looking on, cast his merrily, “I see no danger but that this man eye upon her, and said, “Thou art the cause may live longer, the king pleases. ”
About nine was brought out the Tower; his beard was long, his face pale and thin, and carrying red cross his hand, often lift
eyes heaven; woman meeting with him with cup wine, refused saying,
this man's death:’ and presently leaving his play betook himself his chamber, and thereupon, fell into melancholy. More's great grandson, his ‘Life,' relates that money
was miraculously supplied the purchase
his windingsheet, and that one his teeth pre served relic was miraculously converted
“Christ his Passion drank wine, but gall
and vinegar. ” Another woman came crying, into two.
the same. —4. Also, the said lord
his presumptuous mind divers and many his Letters and Instructions sent out of this
realm outward parties, had joined himself with your grace, saying and writing his
said etters and Instructions; “The king and And, would should thus. The
ğ.
king and give unto you our hearty thanks. ’ Also, the said lord cardinal hath granted Li Whereby apparent that used himself cense under your great seal for carrying out more like fellow your highness, than like grain and other victual, after the restraint hath
-subject. —5. Also, where hath ever been ac been made thereof, for his own lucre, and sin
customed within this your realm, that when gular advantage him and his servants, for noblemen swear their household servants, send thither he bare secret favour, without
the first part their oath hath been, That they your graces warrant knowledge thereof— should true liegemen the king and his 12. Also, the said lord cardinal used, many heirs kings England; the same lord cardinal years together, not only write unto your caused his servants only sworn him, ambassadors resident with other princes his
there had been sovereign above him. — own name advertisements concerning your And also, whereas your grace our so graces affairs, being their charge; and
vereign lord and head, whom standeth the same his Letters wrote many things his
6. if
3.
to ot in all
is to all as
to
of do ait ‘I of is
or dein
orto
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be Ito
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by
of
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it to by
of
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of
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no
to
he is
or
375] STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII. 1529. —Proceedings against [376
own mind, without your graces pleasure being executors, refuse meddle. —18. Also, the known, concealing divers things which had been said lord cardinal constrained all ordinaries necessary for them to know ; But also caused England yearly compound with him, else them to write their Advertisements unto him : will usurp half the whole their juris and of the same Letters he used to conceal for diction prevention, not good order
the compassing of his purposes many things the diocess, but extort treasure for there both from your other counsellors, and from never poor arch-deacon England, but yourself also. -13. Also, where good hospitality that paid yearly him portion his
hath been used kept houses and places living. —ig. Also, the said lord cardinal hath Religion this realm, and many poor people not only his untrue suggestion the Pope,
thereby relieved, the said hospitality and relief shamefully slandered many good religious now decayed and not used; and com houses, and good virtuous men dwelling
monly reported that the occasion thereof because the said lord cardinal hath taken such
then, but also suppressed reason thereof above houses religion; and where, by
so
such religious houses, such yearly and con number: and thereupon hath caused divers
impositions the ruiers the said houses,
authority his Buil, should not suppress
any house that had more men reli-ion in riors, for his visitation, his authority number, above the number hath
well for his favour making abbots, and
and yet, nevertheless, taketh yearly suppressed divers houses that had above the
tinual charges, they not able keep hos offices found verdict, untruly, that the pitality they used do; which great religious persons, suppressed, had volunta
many vagabonds, beg rily forsaken their said houses, which was un gars and thieves. —14. Also, where the said trüe, and hath caused open perjury
cause that there
lord cardinal said, before the suppression committed, the high displeasure Almighty such Houses hath suppressed, that the God. —20. Also, the said lord cardinal hath
possessions them should set farm examined divers and many matters the among your lay-subjects, after such reason Chancery, after Judgment thereof given the
laws; and
have been put from their lawful possession their lands and tenements. And, such means, hath brought the more party the
able yearly rent they should well thereupon common law, subversion your
live, and keep good hospitality; and now the made some persons restore again
demain possessions the said houses, since party condemned, that they had
the suppression them, hath been surveyed, virtue the Judgment the common law. mete, and measured the acre, and now –21. Also, the said lord cardinal hath granted set above the value the old rent; and also many injunctions writ, and the parties never such were farmers covent-seal, and called thereunto, nor hill put against them. copy-holders put out, and moved their
farms, else compelled pay new fines, con
trary equity and conscience. —15. Also, the said lord cardinal, sitting among the lords,
And, reason thereof, divers your subjects
and other your most honourable council,
used himself that any man would shew his
mind according his duty, contrary the
opinion the said cardinal, he would take wrongs. —22. Also, the said lord cardinal,
him with accustomable words, that they were better hold their peace than speak, that would hear man speak, but one
augment his great riches, hath caused divers pardons granted the Pope suspended, which could not be revived till that the said lord cardinal were rewarded, and also have
two great personages, that would have
all the words himself, and consumed much time yearly pension the said pardon. —23. Also, with fair tale. —16. Also, the said lord cardi the said lord cardinal, not regarding your laws
nal his ambition and pride, hath hindered nor justice, his extort power, hath put out
and undone many your poor subjects for want dispatchment matters; for would no man should meddle but himself. Inso.
divers and many farmers his lands, and also patents the archbishoprick York, and bi shoprick Winchester, and the abby St.
much, that hath been affirmed many wise Albans, which had good and sulficient grant men, that ten the most wise, and most ex thereof your laws. -24. Also, the same lord
pert men England, were not sufficient cardinal many times when any houses re convenient time order the matters that he ligion have been void, hath sent his officers
would retain himself: and many times thither, and with crafty persuasions hath in deferred the ending matters, because that duced them compromit their election him. sutors should attend and wait upon him, where And that, before ere named confirmed
might
had small pleasure that house any them, and his servants received replenished with sutors. -17. Also, much great goods them, that manner
the said lord cardinal, his authority lega hath been the undoing the house. —25. time, hath used, any spiritual man having any Also, his authority legatine, the same lord riches substance, deceased, hath taken cardinal bath visited the most part the reli their goods his own; reason whereof gious houses and colleges this your realm, their Wills not performed and one mean hath taken then the twenty-fifth part
had, put them fear that were made their livelihood, the great extortion your
sutors this your realm before himself, where and divers his servants have gotten much riches, and your subjects suffered great
the other execution
he of orso
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as as
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: by he
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377 STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII. 1529. —Cardinal Wolsey. [375
subjects, and derogation of your laws and pre which ready proved. —33. Also, the rogative; and no law to bear him so to do. — said lord cardinal's officers have divers times 26. Also, when matters have been near at compelled your subjects serve him with carts
Judgment by process at your common law, the for carriages. And also his servants have same lord cardinal hath not only given and taken both corn and cattel, fish, and all other sent injunctions to the parties, but also sent victuals your graces price under, though for your judges, and expressly by threats com had been for your grace, which contrary manding them to defer the Judgment, to the the laws. -34. Also, the said lord cardinal evident subversion of your laws, if the judges hath misused himself your most honourable would so have ceased. —27. Also, whereas nei court, keeping great estate there ther the bishoprick of York, nor Winchester, your absence, your grace would have done,
nor the abby of St. Albans, nor the profit of you had been there present your own per his legation, nor the benefit of the chancery, son. —35. Also, his servants, virtue your nor his great pension out of France, nor his commission under your broad seal him
wards, and other inordinate taking could not suffice hita, he hath made his son Winter to spend 2700l. by the year, which he taketh to his own use, and giveth him not past 200l. yearly
them given, hath taken cattel, and other victual, low price your purveyors have done for your grace your prerogative, against the laws your realm. --36. Also, where
to live upon. —28. Also, where the said lord hath been accustomed that your purveyors for
St. Albans 300
suffered
be hurt offended; and upon that condition, Star-Chamber, that they nor other for them
other, was admitted your grace should make labour, legate within this your realm, which con directly indirectly, dition he hath broken, well known all your gracious favour
cardinal did first sue unto your grace to have
your assent to be legate de latere, he promised
and solemnly protested before your majesty,
and before the lords both spiritual and tempo the lord cardinal had the room
ral, that he would nothing do or attempt by your said purveyors could not
virtue of legacy, that should contrary him and his officers, take any wheat within your gracious prerogative regality, the the said town liberties. —37. Also he hath damage prejudice the jurisdiction any divers times given injunction your servants, ordinary, and that his legacy man should that have been for causes before him the
and
your subjects. And when that made this presumptuous intent for any subject. –38. Also,
promise, was busy his suit Rome,
visit the clergy England, both exempt and
not exempt. —29. Also, upon the suit the
said lord cardinal Rome, have his autho Chester, and afterwards his power and rity legatine, made untrue surmise the might, contrary right, committed the said Pope's holiness against the clergy your
realm, which was, that the regular persons the said clergy had given themselves repro
bum sensum; which words St. Paul writing the Romans applyed abominable sin; which slander your Church England, shall for ever remain the register Rome against the clergy
John Stanley the prison Fleet the space one year, until such time compelled
this your realm. —30. Also, the said lord displeasure taken his heart, made himself cardinal had the more part the goods Dr. monk Westminster, and there died. —39. Smith, late bishop London, bishop Savage Also, time your grace being Albans,
York, Mr. Dalby, archdeacon Richmond, according the ancient custom used within Mr. Tornyers, Dr. Rothal, late bishop of Dur your verge, your clerk the market doing his
ham, and Dr. Fox, late bishop Winchester,
contrary their wills and your laws and justice.
–31. Also, the Oyer and Terminer York,
proclamation was made, that every man should
put their bills for extortion ordinaries,
and when divers bills were put against the gates your honourable household, and also
officers the said lord cardinal extortion, the market-place within the town Al for taking 12d. the pound for probation bans, ancient custom hath been used; testaments, whereof divers bills were found be and the lord cardinal, hearing the same, pre fore justice Fitz-Herbert, and other commis sumptuously, and not like subject, caused the sioners, the same lord cardinal removed the aforesaid prices which were sealed with your same indictments into the chancery Certio graces seal, accustomably used for the same, rari, and rebuked the same Fitz-Herbert for be taken off, and wodown the said mar the same cause. —32. Also, the said lord Car ket-place where they were up, and the dinal hath busied and endeavoured himself same place own prices sealed with crafty and nutrue tales make dissention and his seal, and would, had not been letted, debate amongst your nobles your realm, semblable manner used your seal standing
your honourable household have had yearly
out your town and liberty 400 quarters wheat, truth
that since abbot there,
the said lord cardinal did call before him sir
John Stanley, knight, which had taken farm covent-seal the abbot and covent
the said sir John release his covent seal one Leghe Adlington, which married one Lark's daughter, which woman the said lord cardinal kept, and had with her two children. Whereupon the said John Stanley, upon
office, did present unto your officers your most honourable household the prices all
manner verge; and
victuals, within the precinct the
officers
was commanded your said set the said prices both the
any manner way your grace, obtain
pardon, which was
of
of of
by no
be
in
in
or
of
if to it
to
in
as
if it
his
in to of sir
to by of be
set in
it
to
of is,
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in
St. on ofofof
a
of in
to
by it to in
a
of by as
or
of
he at of to
he
in
all
be no
of toof at
in to
he
or
or his
by of
to
by all of
is
as
at
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379] STATE TRIALS, 20 Henry VIII. 1529–Proceedings against [380 upon your graces gates; and also would of his reign amongst the students and scholars of
presumptuous mind, have openly set in the the same,
stocks within your said town your clerk of your and opinions,
market. By which presumption and usurpa informed
tion your grace may perceive, that in his heart said two bishops that behalf, expresly inhi he hath reputed himself to be equal with your bited and commanded them no wise so to
royal majesty. —40. Also, the said lord cardi do. By means whereof the same errors (as nal, of further pompous and presumptuous they affirmed) crept more abroad, and took mind, hath enterprised join and imprint the greater place: saying furthermore, that was cardinals hat under your arms your coin not their defaults that the said heresics
groats, made your city York, which like were not punished, but the said lord car
dinal, and that was reason any blame lack should be arrected unto then for his of
Whereby evidently appeareth
fence. that
deed hath not been seen have been done any subject within your realm before this time.
Also,
41. where one sir Edward
Jones, clerk, Bucking am, the 18th year your most noble reign,
F.
let his said parsonage with tythes, and other
profits the same one Wm. Johnson
indentures for certain years, within which years
the dean the said cardinal's college Ox
ford, pretended title certain portion
tythes within the said parsonage, supposing your most royal majesty, that the lord cardinal
Crowley the county
the said lord cardinal, besides
other his
the said portion belong the parsonage Chichley, which was appropriated the priory
his outragious pride hath greatly shadowed long season your graces honour, which
possessed the said portion, time out mind: whereupon subpoena was directed the said Johnson appear before the said lord cardinal
Hampton-Court; where without any bill, the said lord cardinal committed him the
and treasure without measure, hath griev ously oppressed your poor subjects, with manifold crafts bribery and extortion, that the commonwealth this your graces realin thereby greatly decayed and impoverished:
Fleet, where remained the space twelve and also his cruelty, iniquity, affection and
would not depart with the partiality, hath subverted the due course and the last, upon recog order your graces laws, the undoing
weeks, because
said portion and
nizance made, that
the said lord cardinal wheresoever he was com your most royal majesty therefore your manded, was delivered out the Fleet. excellent goodness towards the weal this Howbeit, yet the said portion kept your realm, and subjects the same, set from him, that dare not deal with it. —42. such order and direction upon the said lord
Also, where one Martin Docowra had lease
the mannor Balsal the county War
wick, for term certain years, injunction
came him out the Chancery, writ, upon ded for, that never have any power, juris- pain 1000l. that should avoid the pos diction, authority, hereafter trouble, vex, session the same mannor, and suffer sir Geo. and impoverish the commonwealth this your Throgmorton, knt. take the profits the realm, hath done heretofore, the great same mannor, the time the matter depending hurt and damage every man almost, high
the Chancery between the lord St. Johns,
and the said Docowra were discust; and yet the said Docowra never made answer the
law. —43. Also, whereas the parliament
and low. Which for your grace doing, will
Chancery, never was called into the Chance
majesty long
endure pleasure
for that matter. And now of late he received the like injunction, upon pain 2000l. contrary the course the common
health,
most desire.
God, your and
hearts
should appear before great number your loving people;—Please
ii.
daily pray, their duty
for the prosperous estate
Almighty God,
your most royal
honour and good
our sovereign lord chamber, and the open parliament, commu king Henry More," Norfolk, Char.
nication and devices were had and moved, wherein mention was, incident, made matters touching heresies, and erroneous sects.
was spoken and reported one bishop there being present, and confirmed good number the same bishops presence the lords
spiritual and temporal then assembled, and two
the said bishops were minded and desired repair unto the University Cambridge, for examination, reformation, and correction
such errors then seemed, and were reported
Suffolk, Tho. Dorset, Exeter, G. Shrews bury, Fitzwater, Jo. Oxenford, Northum land, Darcy, Rochford, W. Mountjoy, Wm. Sandys, Wm. Fitz-William, Henry Gulde ford, Anthony Fitz-Herbert, John Fitz-James. ”
Concerning these signatures, lord Coke, Inst. 95), observes “So these Articles began subscribed Thos. More, lord chan
cellor, and ended with the two judges the law. ”
well touching the Lutheran sect otherwise; the lord cardinal
the good minds and intents the
offences,
disturber of due and direct correction of here sies; being highly the danger, and peril
the whole body and good Christian people
heinous
hath been the
impeacher
and
this your realm. —44. Finally, forasmuch the aforesaid articles evidently declared
Tykeford, lately suppressed, where truth,
the parsons Crowley have been peaceably avarice and ravenous appetite, have riches
most highly regarded, and his insatiable
cardinal, may the terrible example others beware offend your grace and your laws hereafter: and that provi
the
“Subscribed the 1st day 21st year the reign
December, the
of to
of
of
of of by a by byof
by of in
of
of so
toof it
of
of of It in
of
at
of
to (4 * be
it
to
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381] STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII: 1529. —Cardinal Wolsey. [382
These Articles being agreed to by the whole house were presented to the king by the lords, and then sent down to the lower house: where
insomuch, that wrote the king, humbly, his knees, with weeping eyes, that the college Oxford might stand, and importuned
Tho. Cromwel (obtaining the place of a bur Cromwel this purpose, since they are
gess) so wittily defended the cardinal his master, manner, saith lie, “Opera manuam tuarum. ” that no Treason could be laid to his charge. But Cromwel returned him comfort herein, Yet could not the resisting of this brunt, nor saying, “the king was determined dissolve even the gracious Messages received frequently them, though whether meant restore them from the king, chear up the cardinal. For as again, and found them his own name,
he found the Pope had now a long while neg knew not; but wishes him be content, &c. ”
York, i. o
moved so much compassion, as not only he, means, which also signified the king; but, by his intreaty, mistress Anne Bolen, who thereupon sent him thousand
whom the cardinal had in vain importuned to with which and train, reduced now about intercede for him, also sent him several tokens; 160 persons, set forth, giving the way whereof one was a ruby, wherein the king's much alms, and not few other arguments image was curiously engraven, a gift heretofore devotion, which also made him gracious with
cardinal's, together gracious the people, who resorted from ad of the §. with a mes places
Butts, physician; joining, him. And thus with slow and un sage delivered by his
* That his highness was not angry with him in willing removes, came Cawood castle his heart, which he should know shortly. ” near York, about the end Sept. 1530, where Whereupon the cardinal recovered his prepared according the antient custom, health, for the king, so confirming his pro installed with much ceremony about mises, sealed his pardon, Feb. 12, and three month after access the choire, being
lected to give the king any satisfaction, which howsoever, the traffick these and other certainly was the only way to procure the car lands, well negociating his masters busi dinal's restitution, and that, for the rest, no ness, Cromwel shewed that dexterity, which evident sign of the king's relenting appeared, last won him much credit, both with the king so being not able to support any longer his and his principal counsellors. And now the
many
being
news whereof being brought to the king's ears, excuse for retarding his journey, but want
Fwhe.
sup
he fell
dangerously
sick. The cardinal
commanded
had
days after, by letters patents, restored him to the archbishoprick of York. Moreover, he
sent him money, plate, rich hangings, and fur niture for his house and chapel, in that quan
till then forbidden. But whether the solem
nity this action was thought our king unreasonable, and misbecoming one dis
grace; that otherwise the cardinal had cast forth some discontented words, which were re lated again the king; here certainly began
tity, as the cardinal was for the present much
recovered: hoping also, that since he had re
signed his house called York-house, but after his final ruine. Which, his enemies (at this
ward by the king styled the Mannor of West minster, now Whitehall, that his punishment
ended there, and himself now upon terms of regaining the king's favour. The confidence
distance) did with more boldness and advan tage procure, had less means repair
himself. Insomuch, that without being able discover prevent their machinations,
was forced suffer all that could be either to the king, that, for his health's sake, truly, almost falsly surmised against him.
Ncither had other hope, but that the punish ments had already endured, might accept ed as an intire satisfaction for all his offences.
reof also made him to be an humble
ight
we have leave to remove to Richmond
m
house, the use ofwhich he had received in ex
change from the king, for that his sumptuous
palace which he built, and called by the name of Hampton-court.
The Cardinal sent to Bishoprick York.
The Cardinal arrested Treason.
York, High
And now Cardinal Woolsey, seems, had
tried his utmost skill for recovering the with one Walter Welsh, gentleman the
kings favour; whereof also some hope was given him his being permitted remove
Richinond. But his enemies suspected would make use this nearness, obtain cess the king, they laboured instantly
send him the north. Whereinsthey pre vailed length, obtaining further, that the Revenues the bishoprick Winchester, and abbey Saint Albans, also some other places, his, forfeited the Praemunice, might applied part the kings servants;
pension only out Winchester, being re served the cardinal. The revenues also of
his two colleges were torn and divided, which grieved him more than any other affliction:
kings privy chamber, came the kings com mand Cawood, arrest the cardinal,
And now his stallation grew near, when the earl Northumberland, warden the marches,
used that diligence and secresie, had placed his guards the hall, be
wherein
that
fore any escaped advertise the cardinal thereof. Neither did he, the earls coming
stairs, receive him other terms than those guest, till entring into private chaumber
together, the earl low and troubled voice arrested him High Treason. The dismayed
and pensive cardinal stayed while before answered, but last recovering spirits, de manded the sight the earls commission, pro testing that otherwise would not obey; urging further, that was member the
a
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3S3] STATE TRIALS, 20 HENRY VIII. 1520. —Proceedings against [384
college of cardinals at Rome, and so excempt Kingston came again comfort him, but the from princes jurisdiction. But while the cardinal, finding now that death would dis earl replied, that might not shew his com charge him Trials, but that before God, mission, sir Walter Welsh, who had now ar spake this effect:
rested Dr. Augustine the cardinals physician, comes in, and confirms what the earl had said.
The cardinal believing, this time, that they
were good earnest, yields Walter
Welsh, the kings servant, and not the ‘me most humbly the king, desiring him earl; whom said would not submit call to remembrance all matters that have himself, before was better satified his au ‘past betwixt us, and specially about queen thority. Which whether did out stub ‘Catharine, and then shall his grace know bornness the earl, who had been heretofore ‘whether have offended him. He prince educated his house, out despight
mistress Anne Bolen, who (he might conceive)
had put this affront upon him, finding means
employ her antient sutor take revenge
both their names, doth not appear me
my author. Howsoever, protested
no way faulty his allegiance. Dr. Augus could never dissuade him from it. There
tine, whose offence yet doth not appear me, “fore master Kingston, warn you, ever you was dispatched London, the posture his council (as for your wisdom you are traitor, his legs tied his horse. But the ‘meet) that well assured and advised cardinal had some respite though yet com ‘what you put his head, for you shall never
prepare for his journey; which length that deliberate manner,
removed slowly before from the
‘put out again. '
After which words, Cavendish hath them,
manded began
whom, being the steward
began exhortation take heed the him. In Lutherans, “by the example those Bohe
“Had served God diligently have ‘done the king, would not have given me “over my gray hairs; but this my just re “ward. Notwithstanding, pray commend
royal courage but rather than will want miss any part his will pleasure, will
‘endamage the loss one half his realm. “For, assure you, have often kneeled before
him, sometimes the space three hours, was ‘persuade him from his will and appetite, but
that king,
moved now more slowly somuch that had not the earl
Shrewsbury, mia, lest they should likewise subvert the secu the kings lar power. ” But the prosecuting this
houshold, the earl Northumberland was discourse his speech failed him, did his
commanded deliver him, till the kings fur breath presently after, insomuch that he
ther pleasure were known, told him, that the died, and was buried there the Abbey
king commanded should used kindly, Church, Nov. 30, before day. And not, where
one whom highly favoured; probable, had begun monument for himself, long
that the afflicted cardinal would have fallen since, wherein appears our Records
under the burthen his own griefs. Further
more, the earl assured him the king's part,
that, though highness could less than
put him his Trial, yet that was more for the satisfying some persons, than out mis
had not omitted his own image, which one Benedetto, statuary Florence, took hand
1524, and continued till 1529, receiving for much was already done 4250 ducats. The design whereof was glorious, that exceeded far that Henry Nevertheless, find the cardinal, when this was finished, did purpose
make tomb for Henry but dying this manner, king Henry made use much
trust his traiterous doings.
Speech,
The Cardinal's last
and Death.
And thus Sheffield castle,
night, when wind-colick, which ended
fort
staid
dysentery, took him. which state, Wm. tomb the cardinal partake the same fortune
Kingston, captain the king's guard, and con stable the Tower, attended with yeomen the guard (all them formerly servants
with college, being assumed the king;
news the cardinal's death being brought
the cardinal) did find him. that, notwith our king, did much afflict him, that wish
standing the many incouragements the earl, seconded sir. Wm.
Kingston (who his
had cost him twenty thousand pounds upon condition had lived. Howbeit omitted not enquire about one thousand and five hundred pounds, which the cardinal had lately got without that the king could ima gine how. that, appeared borrow
knees saluted him) the cardinal remained still
sick and comfortless. Neither did avail him,
that Wm. Kingston (on the king's part) gave
him many gracious words, adding furthermore,
that should make no more haste than stood edit divers persons, might perchance sus with his health and convenience. For the cardi pect the remainder some his an nal became still more and more dejected. Not cient acquisitions. -
withstanding, considered that delay would but argue guiltiness, could, proceeded
And thus concluded that great cardinal.
man whom ability arts, and industry were equally eminent, though, for being employed
ways, they became dan power active and
journey the best he till he came
Leicester abbey, where feever, complicate
with his former disease, seizing him, lan gerous instruments
guished, not without manifest, signs mutable times.
end. Being thus upon bed, William means govern not only the chief affairs
found fit, and called his. Thus did the
both which yet remain still imperfect. The
wholly ambitious
these arts yet found
his a he on
;
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385] STATE TRIALS, 26 HENRY VIII. 1535. —Sir Thomas More. [386
this kingdom, but of Europe; there being no home. Wherewith again served the Potentate, which, in his turn, did not seek to king's turn, made him think the less
him; and as this procured him divers pensions,
so, when he acquainted the king there with, his
manner was, so cunningly to disoblige that
prince who did see him last, as he made way
thereby oftentimes to receive as much on the
other side. But not of secular princes alone,
but even of the pope and clergy of Rome he seemed exhaust all. Since becometh
was no little courted ; of which therefore he princes like good husbandmen when they
made especial use, while he drew them to se
cond him on most occasions. His birth being
otherwise so obscure and mean, as no man had
everstood so single : for which reason also,
his chief endeavour was not to displease any
great person, which yet could not secure him breaking As for his learning, (which was against the divers pretenders of that time. For
as things passed through hands, the who failed their suits generally hated him,
which, though did but exasperate
nature, yet this good resultance followed, that
just
his king, question disserv
far from exact) consisted chiefly the subti lities the Thomists, wherewith the king and himself did more often weary than satisfy each other. His style missives was rather copious than eloquent, yet ever tending the point. Briefly, true (as Polydore observes) that
man ever did rise with fewer virtues,
true, that few that ever fell from high place had lesser crimes objected against him Though yet Polydore (for being his first coming into England committed prison by him, we have said) may suspected
partial author. that probability
might have subsisted longer, when either his pride and immense wealth had not made him obnoxious, and suspected the king, that
other than women had opposed him Who
made him take the more care
whereof also obtained the reputation
Publick hearing causes. For
no body, his reason carried him. And thus
loved
using his own authority. One error seemed
common licity
both, which was that such multi offices and places were invested
lm. For
dinal particular, derogated little
drew much envy upon the car
from the regal authority, while one man alone
sow their grounds, which scatter, and not
throw one place. He was great dissembler, for qualified person order
ing his businesses for the Inost part cautious got more keeping his word than
was useful minister oints, where there was
ing the Roman church;
which (at what Price soever) find was zealous servant;
hoping thereby aspire the papacy,
whereof (as the factious times then were) seemed more capable than any, had not
inmoderately affected
was not hard judge
prince, who was ablest
Whereby also his inclinations. That help him this dig
they are vigilant and close enemies,
for
the most part, they carry their businesses that manner, they leave fewer advantages against themselves, than men do. conclu
sion, cannot assent those who thought him happy for enjoying the untimely compassion
the people little before his end, can not but account principal felicity, that dur ing his favour with the king, things succeed
help, though could not obtain that supreme
dignity passionately desired, yet pre doubted whether the impressions gave, did
nity, being ever preferred him, which there
fore was the ordinary bait which the empe
ror and French king one after the other, did
catch him. And, upon these terms, doubt
ed not to convey vast treasures out of this
kingdom, especially unto Rome, where had
not few cardinals his devotion. By whose
better than afterwards, though yet may
vailed himself much their favour,
kind absolute power spiritual matters
got not occasion divers irregularities which were observed to follow.
MoRE, knight, Lord Chancellor 26 Henry VIII. 1535. [Hall. Lord Herbert's Life
30. The Trial Sir THoyt
England, for High Treason, denying the King's Supremacy:
Hen. VIII.
More's Life
A BILL being preferred parliament, Nov. 1534, attaint Elizabeth Barton, and several
Sir Thomas More. ]
ressed him compliance, yet the chancellor influenced the king far, that the matter Misprision was dropt. —Sir Thomas, was also
others, High-Treason, bishop Fisher and
Thomas More were also brought into for examined other times the lord chancel
Misprision Treason for the refusing the lor, dukes Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Secre
Oath Succession—says my lord Herbert. tary, and others
The saine author avows the Bill did pass;
but Thomas's great-grandson, his Life,
shews the contrary, and that notwithstanding
the archbishop Canterbury, the lord chan being loth aggravate the king's displeasure,
cellor, duke Norfolk, and secretary Crom would say more than that the Statute was well, the king's command, went him and like two-edged sword, for spoke against
WOL.
pressed him, with think of, own the and open terms,
plainly deny but
the privy-council, who the arguments they could king's Supremacy direct
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387]
STATE TRIALS, 26. Henry VIII. 1535. -Trial qf Sir T. More [383
should his body; and
the cause the death assented shoul his soul. Those Exami
Cromwell, Thomas Beade, John Tregonnel, &c. whom professed had given over
purchase the death
nations being over, Richard Rich, newly made
thoughts titles either popes
princes, given him,
solicitor general, and afterwards lord Rich,
with sir Richard Southwell, and Mr. Palmer, ille second time before the lord chancellor, Scoretary Cromwell's man, were sent the the duke Suffolk, earl Wiltshire, and king take away his books. Rich, pretend
ing friendship him, and protesting had
no commission talk with him about the for
mer affair the Supremacy, put case
hin thus: were enacted
Presently after the Indictument was read, the lord chancellor and the duke Norfolk spoke him this effect; “You see now how
parliament that Richard Rich should king, and that
grievously you have offended his majesty; yet very merciful, that you will lay aside your obstinacy, and change your opinion, we Sir Thomas More answered, that he should hope you may obtain pardon and favour his offend said so, because was bound sight. ' But sir Thomas stoutly replied, “Most the Act; but that this was casus levis. Where noble lords, have great reason return
may continue the mind am in, through his grace, unto death. ’—Then having intimation given that might say what thought
should Treason any body deny what offence were contravene that Act
upon Thomas said,
higher Case: suppose
liament, Quod Deus non
were Treason contravene, whether were
not offence say according the said
Act Rich replied, yea; but said withal, will his own Defence, began thus: “When
ropose middle Case, because this too
consider the length my Accusation, and what heinous matters are laid my charge,
am struck with fear, lest my memory and un derstanding, which are both impaired, together with my bodily health, through long indispo sition contracted my imprisonment, should
would propose
were enacted par Deus, and that
though the whole world should being fully determined only
thers, before whom compared that Oath two-edged sword, before observed.
thanks your honours for this your great civility, but beseech Almighty God, that
serve God.
igh the king, you know, constituted su preme head the Church upon earth; why should not you, master More, accept him for such you would me, were made king
the aforesaid supposition. More answered,
the Case was not the same, because, said he, now fail me far, make me incapable
parliament can make king, and depose making such ready Answers my Defence, him, and that every parliament-man may otherwise might have done. ’
give consent thereunto, but that sub The Court being sensible his weakness,
ject cannot bound the case ordered chair brought in, wherein Supremacy. Quia consensum Parlia might seat himself, which did accordingly,
mentum praebere non potest (so, says my lord
Herbert, my copy not mistaken. ) quanquam Rer acceptus Anglia, plu
rima tamen Partes ertere idem non affirmant. Sir Thomas, having continued prisoner the Tower somewhat more than twelvemonth,
for he was committed about the middle of April 1534, and was brought his Trial
and then went thus “This my Indictment, mistake not, consists four principal Heads, each which purpose, God willing, answer
order. As the first Crime objected against me, that have been enemy out stubborn
ness mind the king's second Marriage; confess, always told his majesty my opinion, according the dictates my conscience, which
neither ever would, nor ought have con leaning his staff, because was much cealed: for which am far from thinking
the 7th May, 1535, went into the Court
weakened his imprisonment, but appeared
with cheerful and composed countenance. The persons constituted try him, were,
Thomas Audley, lord chancellor, Thomas duke Norfolk, John Fitz-James, lord chiefjus
tice, John Baldwin, Richard Leicester, sir John Port, John Spelman, Walter Luke, Anthony Fitz-Herbert.
The Indictment was very long, but where
procure copy
said general,
myself guilty High Treason, that the con trary, being required give my opinion
great prince affair much import ance, upon which the peace the kingdom
depended; should have basely flattered him, and my own conscience, had not spoke the
that could laid rious malefactor; and
then indeed might justly most wicked subject, and God. have offended
can an offence tell contained the Crimes one's mind freely when his sovereign puts the the charge any noto question him; suppose have been suffi
ney-General; and
secmed plainly
Succession, already
this, his double Examination the Tower was
could never learn;
the king herein;
Thounas professed could scarce remember the third part what was objected therein
against him. was read aloud the Attor
was long, that
Thomas's mortal sin his refusing the Oath
mentoned. —To prove alledged against him, the first before Secretary
truth thought
have been esteemed perfidious Traitor
ciently punished already for the fault, the
great afflictions have endured, the loss
my estate, and my tedious imprisonment, which
has continued already near fifteen months. The second Charge against me That have vio lated the Act made the last parliament: that being prisoner, and twice examined,
would not, out malignaut, perfidious, obsti nate and traitorous mind, tell them my opinion,
in
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389] STATE TRIALS, 26 Henry VIII. 1535. -for High Treason. [390
never said nor done any thing against it; nei ther can any one word action mine al ledged, produced, make me culpable.
Nay, this own was then my Answer their
whether the king was Supreme Head of the his own mind. God my witness, and Church or not ; but confessed then, that I had hope will save my soul, gave him other nothing to do with that Act, as to the justice answer; and this presume breach the or injustice of because had benefice laws. -As the principal Crime objected the Church yet then protested, that had against me, that should say upon my Exami
honours, that
hereafter, but
Saviour, and
world. wish
does not keep me alive, desire not live; lowing disallowing that Act; and therefore,
would think the bitter Passion my exit out
nothing else our Blessed this miserable
any thing else his conscience
come now the third principal Arti
and perfidious practices against that Statute, the words therein alledge, because wrote,
conscience, world; especially
the whole not the
E. law, late the same
encouraged
any thing you other would have with
than
pray were
may never see God's face, which, otherwise, imprecation would
injury his prince and country for here sincerely protest, that never revealed any man
occasion some sedition and great
guilty gain the whole world. ’
ooli
cle my Indictment, which am accused Tower, truly and sincerely was, added: of malicious attempts, traitorous endeavours, “In good faith, Mr. Rich, am more concern
while the Tower, divers packets
for your perjury, than my own danger; and
must tell you, that neither myself, nor any body else my knowledge, ever took you
man such reputation, that any
bishop Fisher;
letters him vio
and
insist that these letters
whereby exhorted
him
court, which may
lye
Some my letters related only our private
affairs, about our old friendship and acquaint
ance: one them was answer his, wherein he desired me let him know what Answers
like obstinacy.
and read
the
matter of importance. You know that
acquitted
but
have been acquainted with your manner life
long time, your and conversation even from
youth the present juncture, for we lived the same parish; and you very well know,
either
because you say the bishop burnt them all, will here tell you the whole truth of the matter.
convinced
nation the Tower, That this Law was like two-edged sword; for consenting
should endanger my soul, and rejecting should lose my life: ’tis evidently concluded, you say, from this Answer, because Fisher made the like, that was the same conspiracy, To this reply, That my Answer there was con
body any harm, and this ditional, there were both danger either al
which know, would not transgress any like two-edged sword, seemed hard thing
law, become guilty any treasonable crime: should put upon me, who had never hither for this Statute, nor no other law the world to contradicted either word or deed. These
can punish any man for his silence, seeing they were my words; what the bishop answered,
can more than punish words deeds;
'tis God only that the judge the secrets our hearts. '
know not his Answer was like mine, did not proceed from any conspiracy ours, but from the similitude our learning and under
The Attorney General (Christopher Hales. ) standing. To conclude, sincerely avouch,
. Thomas, though spoke against
“Sir we have not one word that never word this law
deed yours object against you, yet we have any man living, though perhaps the king's ma your silence, which evident sign the jesty has been told the contrary. ’
malice your heart: because dutiful sub
being lawfully fuse to answer it. ”
asked this
question,
will re
There was little reply made this full Answer, Mr. Attorney, any body else;
Sir Thomas More. “Sir, my silence
sign any malice my heart, which the king
himself must own my conduct upon divers either words actions: nevertheless, set
occasions; neither doth convince any man the best gloss that could
of the breach the law; for maxim Mr. Rich was called
amongst the Civilians and Canonists, Qui tacet court upon oath, which
consentire videtur, that holds his peace, seems affirming what we have already related con
give his consent. And what you say, cerning conference between him and Tho fT that good subject will refuse give direct mas the Tower. To which sir Thomas
answer; really think every good subject, except
the duty
made answer, “If were man, my lords, that
will than man;
sion here offend his every body,
bad Christian, rather be more cautious
such
had regard
subject obey God
my oath, had had occa this time, well known
criminal; and this oath, Mr. Rich, which you have taken, true, then
good name and the Temple, where made upon my Examinations concerning the you was educated, Can, therefore seem
Oath Supremacy; and what wrote him upon was this, That had already settled my conscience, and him satisfy his according
likely your lordships, that should weighty affair this, act unadvisedly,
trust Mr. Rich, man had always mcan
the word Malice was what was principally in sisted on, and the mouths the whole court, though for proof body could produce
not
More having recited the face the Court
the discourse they had together the
am sorry am forced lay under the odium
speak you always very lying tongue,
great gamester, and character either there
upon the matter,
give evidence open immediately did,
I
I
to: is ofI toorI
i*. * ×
I heit as
of
in ofofno
by do beto to it Iittotobeto
no of
as to
all
it in noofofdoor ofasofin beIofnoIIIor
ofofa :
I to do to ofofI
to I of no it,
let do do ifof he byin is I
or in
inIby itan I
of Iaaa iftoI
totoof
a ofI to bein is
or to
; into toIIbetoas to of
is of
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be
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a I
is
it or a of to no
in
so I it
to it, do
as is
or
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so
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to
to no
it in it,ofas
in
of Iin .
Iin to
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aIa
beit tono in I
in
he
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of ofasatto orin as a toaIof
it he II
of
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in it
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is
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ofor in
of beif
to
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391]
an opinion
honesty,
STATE TRIALS, 26 HENRY VIII. 1535. Trial of Sir T. More [392
reference his truth and This touched the reputation Mr. Rich very much before my sovereign the very quick, and was slur that could not
lord the king, whom am decply indebt effaced, without the utmost difficulty; and
for his manifold favours, any his noble the only way was, possible, pro and grave counsellors, that should only in duce substantial and creditable Witnesses to
part Mr. Rich, the secrets my conscience attest the contrary and therefore caused respect the king's Supremacy, the particu sir Rd. Southwell, and Mr. Palmer, who were
lar subject, and only point about which have been long pressed explain myself? which never did, nor never would reveal, when the
the same room with sir Thomas and Mr.
Rich when they conferred together,
sworn the words that passed between Act was once made, either the king himself, them. Whereupon Mr. Palmer deposed,
any his privy-counsellors, well known That was busy thrusting sir Tho
your honours, who have been sent upon mas's books into sack, that took no notice other account several times his majesty of their talk. ” And sir R. Southwell likewise
take care conveying his books away, gave ear their discourse. ’
asserted, but only cases put without any Charge the Jury. Whether
offensive circumstances; cannot justice challenged any the pannel, when they were said, that they were spoke maliciously, and returned serve, does not appear; but the where there no malice, there no offence. twelve persons whose Verdict his life now Besides, my lords, cannot think many re depended, were these Thomas Palmer, knt. werend bishops, many honourably person sir Tho. Peirt, knt. George Lovell, esq. Tho. ages, and many virtuous and learned men, Burbage, esq. Geoffry Chamber, Edw. Stock
proceed judg
me the Tower. refer
ments, my lords, whether this can seem credi ble any your lordships. -But supposing
your judg swore, “That because his business was only
what Mr. Rich has swore should be true, see
ing the words were spoke familiar and pri own Defence, the discrediting vate conversation, and that there was nothing Evidence; the Judge proceeded
Sir Thomas having urged other reasons his Mr. Rich's
give the
Thomas had
whom the parliament consisted the enact more, Jasper Leake, Wm. Browne, Tho. Bil ing that law, ever meant have any man lington, John Parnel, Rd. Bellaine, George punished with death, whom Malice could Stoakes, gents.
be found, taking the word Malitia for Malevo Now the Jury having withdrawn, scarce tentia; for Malitia taken general were out quarter hour before they re signification for any crime, there man can turned with their Verdict, which they found be free wherefore this word Maliciously the prisoner Guilty; upon which the lord chan far significant this Statute, the word For cellor, chief the Commission for this
cible that Forcible Entry; for that Trial, immediately began
case any enter peaceably, and puts his ad ment: which sir
versary out forcibly, offence; but enters forcibly, shall punished that Statute. —Besides, the unspeakable good ness his majesty towards me, who has becn
said
lord, who has dearly loved and trusted me, even from my first entrance into his royal ser vice, vouchsafing honour me with the dig
hereupon stopping his sentence, wherein had already proceeded part, asked Thomas. ‘What was able say the contrary
#. bim, ‘My lord, when
observing,
was concerned the
law, the practice such cases was ask the prisoner before Sentence, whether had any thing offer why Judgment should not pro
many ways my singular good and gracious nounced against him. ’ The lord chancellor
nity being one his privy-council, and has who presently made Answer these words:-
most generously promoted me offices great reputation and honour, and lastly that
lord high-chancellor, which honour never did any layman before, the same being the highest dignity this famous kingdom, and next the king's royal person, far beyond my merits and qualifications; honouring and exalting me his incomparable benignity, for these twenty years and upwards, heaping con tinual favours upon me and now last, my own humble request, giving me liberty dedicate the remainder Iny life the service
God for the better saving my soul, has been pieased discharge and free me from that weighty dignity; before which had still heaped more and more honours upon me: say, this his majesty's bounty, long and
plentifully conseried upon me, enough, my opinion, invalidate the scandalous accu
sation injuriously surmized and urged this man against me. '
‘For much as, my lords, this Indictment grounded upon act parliament, directly re- pugnant the laws God and Holy Church, the supreme government which,
art thereof, aw presume right belongs
temporal person may any take upon him, being what
the See Rome, which
special prerogative was granted the mout
our Saviour Christ himself St. Peter, and
the bishops Rome his successors only, whilst lived, and was personally present here
earth: therefore, amongst Catholic Christ ians, insufficient law, charge any Christian obey it. ’ And order the proof his
assertion, declared among other, things, That whereas this kingdom alone being but one member, and simall part the Church,
was not make particular law disagreeing
with the general law Christ's universal Ca tholic Church, more than the city London,
being but one member respect the whole
so
of
in of so
ifso of toso
so all
of
of
so
of at
all to
to toor I in
ed to
to
he
is to
he
as a
to to
no as
of
his
sir
of
*
to
heof
it as to
to
in so of to
at to in
of
he at
so
isin noa
sois in be
isso
byinI toat
to
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to
of to no
no in to an
to of
he to
to
in of to of
ofin of:
aain to
ofto
inin on aso
do it,
to
of to
I
an sir to by
to
in to
he
if
to to
ifis of in :
of
toby is of,
ofin
of; isbeit I
of of by
in
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heto
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of I
or
of byof hebein
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t
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to
be
393] STATE TRIALs, 26 Henry VIII. 1535–for Irgh Treason. [394
kingdom, might enact a law against an act of from thence drawn hurdle through the parliament, to be binding to the whole realm ; “city London Tyburn, there hanged so he shewed farther, That law was even con ‘till he should be half dead; that then he trary to the laws and statutes of the kingdom, “should cut down alive, his privy parts cut yet unrepealed, as might evidently be seen by “off, his belly ripped, his bowels burnt, his four Magna Charta, wherein are these words; Ec “quarters set over four gates the city, clesia Anglicana libera sit, & habeat omnia jura ‘and his head upon London-Bridge. ’
This was the Judgment pronounced upon this great man, who had deserved well both the king and kingdom, and for which Paulus prince, always take with great solemnity, at Jovius calls king Henry another Phalaris. their coronations. So great was Thomas's This scvere Sentence was afterwards, the zeal, that further alledged, that was worse king's pardon, changed beheading, because the kingdom England refuse obedience had borne the greatest office the kingdom; the See Rome, than for any child which mercy the king's, word being his natural parent: for St. Paul said the brought Thomas, merrily said, “God
received Sentence Death, spake thus with resolute and sedate aspect: “Well, seeing am condemned, God knows how justly, will freely speak for the disburdening my consci
integra, & libertates suas illaesas : and it is con trary also to that sacred Oath which the king's majesty himself, and every other Christian
Corinthians, have regenerated you, my forbid the king should use any more such mercy
children, Christ:" might that worthy Pope IRome, St. Gregory the Great, say
Englishmen, “Ye are my Children, because have given you everlasting Salvation for
St. Augustine and his followers, his immediate messengers, England first received the Chris tian faith, which far higher and better inhe
any my friends, and
bless
my
ence, what think this law. When per-> ritance than any carnal father can leave his ceived was the king's pleasure list out children: for son only generation, we from whence the Pope's authority was derived, are regeneration made the spiritual children confess studyed seven years together find
č.
posterity from such pardons. ” When had
Christ and the Pope. ” out the truth and could not meet with
f Here the Lord Chancellor took him up, and the works any one doctor, approved the
*said: “That seeing the bishops, Universities, Church, that avouch layman was,
and the most learned men the kingdom had could be the Head of the Church. ”
every
agreed that Act, was much wondered that Chancellor. “Would you esteemed wiser,
alone should stiffly stickle, and vehe or have sincerer conscience than all the mently argue there against it. ’ His Answer bishops, learned doctors, nobility and commons
was, “That the
Universities were
seemed make
reason why that thing should make any change hundred Holy and Catholick bishops for my
ofthis realm
number Bishops and
material his lordship More. am able produce against one
then, my lord, see bishop which you can produce your side,
my conscience for doubt not, but the
learned and virtuous men now alive, do not
speak only this realm, but Christen
dom, there are ten one my mind this
matter; but should take notice those
learned doctors and virtuous fathers that are
already dead, many whom are saints hea necessity the cause obliges me for ven, am sure there are far more, who all the the discharge my conscience and call while they lived thought his case God witness, that nothing but this has ex now. And therefore, my lord, not think cited me to it. ’
myself bound conform my conscience the After this the Judges kindly offering him their counsel one kingdom, against the general favourable audience had any thing else
consent of all Christendom. ”
Here seems the Lord Chancellor not will
say answered most mildly and charitably, have more say, but that the blessed Apostle St. Paul, we read the Acts the
ing take the whole load his condemnation
upon himself, asked open court the advice Apostles, was present, and consenting
the sir John Fitz-James, the lord chiefjustice protomartyr Stephen, keeping their clothes
England, Whether the Indictment was valid that stoned him death, and yet they are no who wisely answered thus: “My lords, all, both now holy saints heaven, and there shall St. Gillian' (for that was always his oath) continue friends eternity; verily trust,
must needs confess that the act par and shall therefore heartily pray, that albeit liament not unlawful, then the Indictment your lordships have been earth my Judges
not my conscience invalid. ” Some have condemnation, yet that may hereafter wrote, That the Lord Chancellor should here meet joyfully together Heaven our ever upon say, Quid adhuc desideramus testimonium, lasting salvation; and God preserve you, espe reus est mortis, and then presently proceeded cially my sovereign lord the king, and grant him
give Sentence this effect: ‘That should faithful counsellors. ”
London, Sir Thomas, after his Condemnation, was ‘the help William Kingston, sheriff, and conducted from the bar the Tower, axe
carried back the Tower
opinion and against one realm, the consent Christendom for thousand years. ”
Norfolk. “Sir Thomas, you shew your obsti nate and malicious mind. ”
More. “Noble sir, malice obsti nacy that makes me say this, but the just
betois*Ibyof
in he of oftoin to I by
toto
I : it so is
“I
of
of
he by
of
as of I so toIin in of
:'
of toto do
in
he is to I he
on to8, a
in
be
it of
to
to
of of of
to
totoasto
to
no
of
ofa of up
be
he
“I a of I I of to ? ’ sir
to if if a
in he
of to : so it all is a
in I so
as
if of in of
I of asof
in by
to
orof
byI us to
; it of
do allI
it sir
to
*I: , Iatoofheof‘
do no
to
to
it, ofof in if it a of
to on
wesoin no be hein
to I as ; on
an toItoor orI be
of
to
of a I
to
it byto I heall by
so of to
395] STATE TRIALs, 26 Henry VIII. 1535–Trial of Fisher, Bishop [396 being carryed before- him, with the edge to and demanded some Papers she said she had
wards him.
Sir Thomas More having remained a prisoner
in the Tower about a week after his Sentence,
left his hands, when was lord chancellor, whom said, “Good woman, have pati ence but for an hour, and the king will rid me of
on the 6th of July early in the morning, his old the care have for those Papers, and every
friendsir. Thomas Pope came to him with a thing else. ' Another woman followed him,
message from the king and council, to acquaint
him, That his Execution was appointed to be
before nine that morning. Whereupon sir
Thomas said, “He thanked him heartily for
good news. have been,’ says he, “much
obliged his majesty for the benefits and ho
nours has most bountifully conferred upon Lieutenant, ‘Pray, Sir, see me safe up and me; yet am more bound his grace my coming down, me shift for myself. ” assure you, for confining me this place, Being about speak the people, was where have had convenient place and oppor interrupted the sheriff, and thereupon he
tunity put me mind my last end.
am most bound him, that his majesty pleased rid me out the miseries this
wretched world. ” Then Thomas Pope ac
only desired the people pray for him, and bear witness he died the faith of the Catholic
Church, faithful servant both God and the king. Then kneeling, repeated the Miserere Psalm with much devotion; and rising up, the Executioner asked him forgiveness. He
quainted him, was the king's should not use many words
pleasure the place
ac kissed him, and said, “Pluck thy spirits,
execution. “Sir," said he, “you
quaint me with the king's pleasure; for had
well
man, and not afraid thine office my neck very short, take heed therefore thou strike not awry for saving thine honesty. " Lay
crying, had done her much wrong when he was lord chancellor, whom said, “I very
well remember the Cause, and were decide now, should make the same Decree. ” When he came the scaffold, seemed
ready fall; whereupon said merrily the
otherwise designed the people; but
conform myself
And beseech you, sir, you would become tioner stay till had put his beard aside, for suitor his majesty, that my daughter Mar. that had committed no Treason. Thus he garet may attend my funeral. ’ To which Pope suffered with much chearfulness; his head was replyed, That the king was willing his wife and taken off one blow, and was placed upon children, and other friends should present. London-Bridge, where having continued for
have made speech matters not, and am ready
Sir Thomas Pope being about take leave,
some months, and being about be thrown into the Thames make room for others, his daughter Margaret bought inclosed
his highness's pleasure. ing his head upon the block, bid the execu
Whereupon
could not refrain from tears.
Thomas More said, ‘Let not your spirits
cast down, for hope we shall see one another leaden box, and kept for relique.
better place, where we shall free live said, when news his death was brought and love eternal bliss. ’ And divert Pope's the king who was that time playing grief, took his urinal and shook saying tables, Anne Bullen looking on, cast his merrily, “I see no danger but that this man eye upon her, and said, “Thou art the cause may live longer, the king pleases. ”
About nine was brought out the Tower; his beard was long, his face pale and thin, and carrying red cross his hand, often lift
eyes heaven; woman meeting with him with cup wine, refused saying,
this man's death:’ and presently leaving his play betook himself his chamber, and thereupon, fell into melancholy. More's great grandson, his ‘Life,' relates that money
was miraculously supplied the purchase
his windingsheet, and that one his teeth pre served relic was miraculously converted
“Christ his Passion drank wine, but gall
and vinegar. ” Another woman came crying, into two.
