No More Learning

Two days after this, she was ordered executed the Green on Tower-Hill. How she received these tidings, and how stedfast she continued the protestations her innocence, will best appear
this time, and past my pain.
should pain, was sottle.
seen many men, and also women, executed; the following circumstances. The dav be and that they have been great sorrow, and fore she suffered, upon strict search her my knowledge this lady has much joy and Past life, she called mind, that she had play pleasure death. Sir, her almoner con
the step-mother too severely lady Mary, tinually with her, and had been since two
and had done her many injuries. Upon which, she made the lieutenant the Tower's lady down the chair state; which the other,
clock after midnight. This the effect any
thing that here this time, and thus fare you well, Yours, William Kingston. ”
Mary, and ask her forgiveness for the wrongs
she had done her. And she said, she had no
quiet her conscience, till she had done that.
But though she did this what became Christian, the lady Mary could not easily
pardon these injuries; but retained the resent ments of them her whole life.
This ingenuity and tenderness conscience about lesser matters, great presumption,
that she had been guilty more eminent faults, she had not continued the last deny ing them, and making protestations her in
nocency. For that same night she sent her last message the king, and acknowledged
her self much obliged him, that had con tinued still advance her. She said, had, from private gentlewoman, first made her machioness, and then queen and now, since could raise her higher, was sending
particulars are repeated the Act that, passed the next parliam;ent, touching the Succession the Crown. seeins this was secretly done,
advertise you, there was divorce made between the king and have received your letter, wherein you would her, upon her confessing precontract with ano have strangers conveyed out the Tower, and
ther before her marriage with the king: that they the means Richard Gressum, was then only talkt but not generally known. and William Cooke, and Wytspoll. But the The two sentences that were past upon the number strangers past not thirty, and not
queen, the one attainder for adultery, the many those armed and the ambassador
for Spelman writes thus: was said,
any part was left out “Sir, These should
copier imployed the lord Herbert has not
writ out faithfully; for
cannot think that design.
she said, heard say the csecutioner was very
good, and have little neck, and put her
hands about laughing heartily. have
ed by
in he;noaifof in ;
sit
of
his to
if be
it no is it
ofon :on by
of
if
of so his
to in
so of
:
a by of of or
of ofat so
of to ofof It of of
to be of of, to it
ofa toitor aof ofa a bebe ofitin
;no a is if in so ifto beit
it
toinof Itto it it
ofit is
of in to
isof
so
be
to of it,
byI as so it
to
atin to be
it
be :of byhe inas
in I I at to be of be
is Ino bebebeofbyit ato
it, ata if to
ataitIIa by ofIin; in
as
as beI to is in insoI ofIofnoa a
isofatoon it I to Ian of : toof to
a it
go
toI ;of
is I be be of so to of I he to
as
ofIa ainon o
to a if
I
r
421) STATE TRIALS, 2s Hesky VIII. 1536. -and others, for High Treason. [422
A little before noon, being the 19th of May, the Tower, (which will found the Collec she was brought to the scaffold, where she tion,) she pleaded her innocence, strain made a short speech to a great company that much wit, and moving passionate eloquence, came to look on the last scene of this fatal perhaps can scarce parralleled: certainly tragedy: the chief of whom were the dukes of her spirits were much exalted when she wrote Suffolk and Richmond, the lord chancellor,
and secretary Cromwell, with the lord mayor, the sheriffs and aldermen of London. “She
said, she was come to die, as she was judged by the law; she would accuse none, nor say any thing of the ground upon which she was
for pitch above her ordinary stile. Yet the Copy take from, lying among
-
and heartily desired they would pray for cretion, lead one all those things that were her. ' After she had been some time in her proved against her; and therefore they conclu
devotions, her last words being, ‘To Christ ded her chaste, though indiscret. Others blam
thought that some freedoms and levities her judged. She prayed heartily for the king; had encouraged those unfortunate persons
and called him a most merciful and gentle speak such bold things her, since few attempt
prince, and that he had been always to her a good, gentle, sovereign lord, and if any
see some invitations, least their carriage. them to judge the best. And so she took Others thought that free and jovial temper her leave of them, and of the world : might, with great innocence, though with dis
would meddle with her cause, she required
! commend my soul;’ her head was cut
the hangman Calais, who was brought over
more expert beheading than any England her eyes and lips were observed
move after her head was cut off, Spelman
the king, and taxed his cruelty proceed severely against person whose chastity had reason assured of, since she had
writes; but her body was thrown into com cused him.
mon chest elm-tree that was made
put given just cause
being
king
Her brother with the other four did also
suffer; none them were quartered, but they
were beheaded, except Smeton, who was
hanged. was generally said, that was
corrupted into that confession, and had his had now divorced the king second time, which life promised him but was not let
arrows and was buried the chappel within the Tower before twelve clock.
the rage
temper, conceiving against one
him live tell tales. Norris had been much the king's favour, and offer was made him his life, would confess his guilt, and
accuse the queen. But generously rejected that un-handsom proposition, and said, “That his conscience thought her innocent these things laid her charge; but whether
shewed that his conscience was governed the king's pleasure his supreme law. But what he did was unavoidable. For whatever motives
she was not, would not accuse her tence upon formal confession. Some loaded any thing, and would die thousand times, all that favoured the Reformation and said,
rather than ruin innocent person. ”
These proceedings occasioned great va riety censures, there were diversity in
now appeared what woman their great patro
ness and supporter had been. But those was answered, That her faults, true, being
terests. The popish party said, the justice
God was visitole, that she who had supplanted
queen Catherine, inct with the like, and harder.
measure, the same means. Some took no
tice her faint justifying her self the scaf
sold, her conscience had then prevailed
far, that she could longer deny thing, for
which she was soon answer another Popes continued court and magnifie, after
tribunal. But others thought her care her daughter made her speak tenderly; for she
her barbarous murder her son, with other acts unsatiated spite and amb. tion. Therefore
they had reason think the worse per had drawn the kings indignation her daugh sons for claiming the protection quo en,
had observed, that queen Catherines obs' inacy
ter; and therefore that she alone might bear her misfortunes, and derive no share them on her daughter, she spoke stile, that could give the king just offence: and she said enough justifie her self, she said much for the kings honour, could expected.
Yet letter that she wrote the king from
whose faults she was criminal,) were unknown to them when they inade use her.
Some have since that time concluded
great evidence her guilt, that during her daughter's long and glorious reign, there was full nor compleat vindication her published. For the writers that time thought enough
Cromwell's other Papers, makes me believe was truly written her.
Her carriage seemed too free, and people
upon the chastity, make declarations love, persons exalted quality, except they
ing
resisted his addresses near five years;
gitimated them
marriage. But
certain her carriate had
some jealousie,
whom
man, was wooder
had signally obliged, was trans
ported into unjustifiable excesses. —Others con
demned Cranmer, man that ob-equiously followed the king's appetites; and that
drew from her the confession that pre-con tract, was obliged give sentence upon
and that which she confessed, being such made her incapable contract marriage with the king, could not decline the giving *en
secret, could cast no reflection on those, who being ignorant then, made use her pro tection. And the church of Rome thought not their cause suffered the enraged cruelty and ambition the cursed Irene, who had convened the second council Nice, and set the wor ship images again the east; whom the
in as of a to if
of
all
to
so in a
of
of
of
as
a of is be
to or a
I
as
to so
he
an
it
a in
be on aon as
as
of
at all
a it a it be in
as
as of
at
fit
to he
it
noa
(, a
to
ti
all toit
it
if itItas: hea
(if
It
so of by to
so
a
of of
of
so of ofof
toa
off to in by
by
or
if
to
It
in, : of
o of
no so he he of
no
he
as an heto a
;
at
in ofin
as
of he of so
it noso ofis
to
by
of up of
in
in in a
of
of by
noofin
of he all hehis
toofbyaato as
ofin toaaattobe
if
:
of
it no
it
of
he ed to
it, asso
423] STATE TRIALS, 28 Henry VIII. 1536. -Trials of 2ueen Anna Boleyn, [424
to speak honourably of her; and in general, to such way, soften the king (for she knew call her innocent, but none of them ever at his temper) such humble deportment, tempted a clear discussion of the particulars favour her daughter. She was brought her laid to her charge. This had been much to her trial without having any advocate allowed her; daughter's honour, and therefore, since it was having none but her maids about her. chair not done, others concluded it could not be done; was set for her, and she looked her judges and that their knowledge of her guilt restrained with chearful countenance, she made her
opens. curtsies them, without any fear: she behaved their But others do not at allow
that inference, and think rather, that was the herself she had been still queen she spoke great wisdom that time not suffer such not much her own defence; but the mo things called question since wise desty her countenance pleaded her inno government will admit debate about the cence, much more than the defence that she clearness the princes title. For the very at made; that who saw heard her, be
the busie emissaries
Ertract from The tragedy
Rome and Spain.
Burn. Reformat. 118.
still protested her innocence. When she heard the Sentence, that she was beheaded,
prove weakens more, than any lieved her innocent. Both the magistrates
the proofs that are brought can confirm
it; London, there, and several others who were
therefore was prudently done and her great ministers, never
that queen said, they saw evidence against her only
appeared, that they were resolved rid of her.
suffer any vin dication apology written. Some indis
cretions could not be denied, and these would have been catched hold and improved
She was made lay aside the characters her dignity which she did willingly but
queen Anne followed soon after this: broke out the first
Meteren,
wrote
which
by French gentleman, Crispin, who was ‘ment you all. believe you have reasons. then London, and Meteren relates the and occasions suspicion and jealousy, upon matter, wrote without partiality. He begins which you have condemned me: but they
put prison: but were found guilty,
did not confess, and should suffer the extre Norris answered, would
that excellent History that
the Wars the Netherlands,
will not say that nor presume, that preferred the judg
took from full relation given
thus: “There was gentleman who blamed must be other, than those that have been
produced here court; for am entirely in nocent all these accusations; that
cannot ask pardon God for them. have been always faithful and loyal wife the king. have not, perhaps, times shewed him that humility and reverence, that his
goodness me, and the honour which
raised me, did deserve. confess, have had
fancies and suspicions him, which had not strength nor discretion enough manage but God knows, and my witness, that never failed otherwise towards hin and
shall never confess any other, the hour iny death. Do not think that say this, design prolong my life: God has taught me
know how die; and will fortify my faith. Do not think that am so carried
that was false, which was ready jus my mind, not lay the honour my
his sister for some lightness that appeared her behaviour, she said the queen did more than she did; for she admitted some her
court come into her chamber undue hours:
and named the lord Rochford, Norris, Weston,
Brereton, and Smeton the musician; and she
said her brother, that Sneton could tell much
more: this was carried the king. ”—When
the matter broke out the first May, the king who loved Norris, sent for him, and said,
would confess those things with which the queen was charged, he should neither suffer
his person, nor his estate; nor much
mity the law.
much rather die than guilty such falshood:
tify combat against any person whatso ever; he was sent with the rest the Tower: the confession of Smeton was all that was brought against the queen he, was
chastity heart; small account now not maintained
which should make my extremity, had
my whole life long, inuch ever queen did. know, these my last believed, was prevailed accuse her: yet words will signify nothing, but justifie my
was condemned contrary the promise that honour and my chastity. As for my brother,
had been made him but was pretended that and those others, who are unjustly con his crime was, that had told his suspicions demned, would willingly suffer many deaths,
others, and not the king and when was deliver them but since see pleases alledged that one witness was not sufficient, the king, must willingly bear with their was answered that was sufficient. He adds, ‘death, and shall accompany them death, that the queen was tryed the Tower; and ‘with this assurance, that shall lead an end that she defended her honour, and modesty, “less life with them peace. ” She said this,
burnt, she was not terrified; but lifted
her hands God, and said, “O Father' May “O Creator Thou, who art the way, the
1536, but seems was concerted before; for “truth, and the life; thou knowest that parliament was summoned, least the writs have not deserved this death. ’ And turning were tested the 27th April before. There herself her Judges, (her uncle, the duke
long account her sufferings given
Norfolk, being the lord high steward)
she said, “My lords, ‘your sentence unjust “my opinion ought
in
I inofto of to
be I
all
asif
I of
:
I to
to; A ; be
to
to
it he:
of to
of it in
it
in itto
as
he
to to as
of
of
no
he
if init isa all of
to as to
a
a
soa
of
all
to
to be
init in he to
a a in heof
all
in
it itof3
heif
:iton to inonof,a
a a of
beheon asofbeof
intotohe
: of so at
at toit;
of to
it all of
bein
he by
of
of it,
p.
I
so of asto
of Iasto| byas
I to to
of
to
inif
: to ainofis to:noall it Ito
to
I IisofI ;
I Ihe atI toall or asto
it in so
to Iat all be :all
to Ito
to
Iso
inonofII:he I I of
it
or
it
to of
by of“ uporof
it
to
425] STATE TRIALS, 28 Henry VIII. 1536. —and others, for High Treason. [426
and a great deal more : and then, with a mo undressed her neck with great courage, and dest air, she rose up, and took leave of them ended her days. ”
all. Iler brother, and the other gentlemen, This long recital have translated out were executed first. “He exhorted those who Meteren; for not find taken notice suffered with him, to die without fear; and said any our writers. leave thus, without to those that were about him, that he came to any other reflections upon but that seems die, since it was the king's pleasure that it over credible. Thevet, Franciscan fryar, who should be so. He exhorted persons, not for years, had wandered and down trust courts, states, and kings, but God Europe, prepare materials for his Cosmo only. He had deserved heavier punishment graphy, (which published the year 1503,)
give him long, and good life. With him, sins, being the point death and
all the rest suffered death, which they had among other things, the injury and the crime way deserved. Mark Smeton only confessed, committed against queen Anne Boleyn, who
cleared me that publick shame has brought
me Alas! fear his soul suffers for and
that now punished for his false accusation. But for my brother, and those others, doubt not, but are now the presence of that
Great King, before whom am morrow. '”
seems, that gentleman knew nothing
partiality for queen Anne. We must leave those secrets the great day.
".
for his other sins; but not from the
had never offended. Yet prayed God that king Henry expressed great repentance
whom says, many English gentlemen him, that assured
he had deserved well die which gave occa
sion inany reflections. When the queen
heard how her brother and the other gentlemen
had suffered, and had sealed her innocence
with their own blood but that Mark had con
fessed, deserved die; she broke out into ing queen Catherine, not suspected some passion, and said; Has he not then
the judgment that passed
nulling the marriage for
secretly. could have
lour, but from that story mentioned Caven also received the blessed sacrament upon the
dish's Life Wolsey, the lord Percy's ad same before the duke Norfolk, and other dresses her. He was now examined upon the king's highnes council learned the spi
that: but will appear from his letter Cromwell, that solemnly purged both him self and her, from any precontract; being exa mined upon oath the two archbishops; and that received the sacrament upon before the duke Norfolk, and some the king's council that were learned the spiritual law; assuring them his oath, and the sacra ment that had received, and intended receive, that there was never any contract,
romise marriage, between her and him.
This wrote the 13th May, four days
before the queen's execution; which will
found the collection. This shews plainly,
that she was prevailed on, between fear and “what write, what excuse, am alto hope, confess precontract, the person not ‘gether ignorant. Whereas you send unto me being named. ‘(willing me confess truth, and obtain
The French gentleman gives the same ac “your favour) such one whom you know count the manner her death, and her ‘to mine antient professed enemy; speech, that the other writers that time ‘sooner received this message him, than do. “When she was brought the place ‘rightly conceived your meaning; and execution, within the Tower, says, her looks “you say, confessing truth indeed m–ay were cheartui. ; and she never appeared more ‘procure my safety, shall with willing. beautiful, than that time. She said those ‘ness and duty perform your command. about her, not sorry see me die thus; “But let not your grace ever imagine that
but pardon me from your hearts, that have “your poor wife will ever brought ac not expressed about me, that mildness “knowledge fault, where not much
that became me; and that have not done ‘thought thereof preceded. And speak that good, that was my power do. She “truth, never prince had wife more loyal
prayed for those who were the procurers her duty, and true affection, than you have death. Then, with the aid her maids, she “ever found Ann Boleyn, with which name
was falsly accused, and convicted that which was laid her charge. true, Thuanus has very much disgraced that writer, vain and ignorant plagiary but having been the order that suffered much for their adher
The Earl Northumberland's Letter Crom
well, denying any Contract,
Promise Anne and himself.
signifie unto Raynold Carnaby, ‘that there supposed precontract between
Marriage,
between Queen
to “Mr. Secretary, this shall ‘you, that perceyve
Lambeth, an ‘the queen and me; whereupon was not only
was transacted “heretofore examined upon my oath before the foundation co archbishopps Canterbury and York, but
rituall law; assuring you, Mr. Secretary,
the said oath, and blessed body which affore received, and hereafter intend receive, that the same may uny damnation, ever there were any contracte, promise marriage between her and me. At Newyng ton-Green, the xijth day Maye, the 28th year the reigne our soveraigne lord
‘king Henry the 8th.
Your assured. “North UMBERLAND. ’
Queen Ann
Boleyn's
last Letter
king Henry.
‘Sir; Your grace's displeasure, and my im ‘prisonment, are things strange unto me,
It
oftoin to ishe a
he
to at a on by he
all by
he
he
i.
to
he? to to
of of it of It Beallhe I
of
to ; a inof : toa
Ito in noitI" : all of he of at he
to by of he toof intoI
it,
in
ofin a
I to
‘ * ofofby
of
of
or
be it,
in asto alla a
if, I asIno
in
of
be
or to
to
of
noto to
be
to
or to 18
of
I of
allbyor of hedoI
to ininatoofisto I
Iaana be aby so: a
I toso of to of sir is It it,
it
be he is in
by to of Ito to of it
be
so Ior orbeofupit
to all
so
to in Iby
to as a;
as
ofif
of of
all ofof so
to
his
17
of
at
427] STATE TRIALS, 28 HENRY VIII. 1536. -Trials of Queen Anna Boleyn, [428
‘and place I could willingly have contented “myself, if God and your grace's pleasure had
‘ been so pleased. Neither did I at any time “so far forget my self in my exaltation, or re
‘ ceived queenship, but that I alwayes looked * for such an alteration as now I find ; for the * ground of my preferment being on no surer
“foundation than your grace's fancy, the least ‘ alteration, I knew, was and sufficient
Ertract from Strype's Memorials, vol. 279.
This year, (1536) the month May, queen Anne Boleyn was beheaded: great friend and patroness the reformed religion. She was very nobly charitable, and expended largely
manner acts liberality, according
her high quality. And among the rest her ways shewing this Christian virtue, she being
favourer learning, together with her father, draw that fancy some other subject. You the lord Wiltshire, and the lord Rochford, her
have chosen me, from low estate,
brother, maintained divers ingenious men
the universities. Among the rest, were these men note, Dr. Hethe, afterward archbishop
your queen and companion, far beyond my
desert desire. then you found me wor thy such honour, good your grace not
York, and lord chancellor; Dr. Thirlby,
any light fancy, bad counsel mine ene
mies, withdraw your princely favour from me; ward lord Paget, and secretary state:
neither that stain, that unworthy stain disloyal heart towards your good grace,
cover cast foul blot your most dutiful wife, and the infant princess your daughter:
try me, good king, but let me have lawful
which her time were favourers of the Gos pel, though afterwards they relapsed. Of Paget one hath observed, that he was most earnest Protestant, and being Cambridge, gave unto one Raynold West, Luther's book, and other
trial, and not iny sworn enemies my books the Germans, Franciscus Lamber
accusers and judges; yea, me receive open trial, for my truth shall fear open shame; then shall you see, either mine inno cency cleared, your suspicion and conscience satisfied, the ignonimy and slander the would
tus Sectis: and that,
Melancthon's rhetorick
and was maintainer
the Protestants then
that time he read openly Trinity-hall; Dr. Barmes, and all Cambridge, and helped
proved, your grace
liberty, execute
É.
punishment
follow your associion, already settled that party, for whose sake am How am, whose name could some good while since have pointed unto; your grace being not norant my suspicion therein. —But you have already determined me, and that not only my death, but infamous slander must
bring you the enjoying your desired happi ness; then desire God, that will par
don your great sin therein, and likewise mine enemies, the instruments thereof; and that will not call you strict account for
ferers, and her high esteem Iythe Queen.
the word God.
and
not me
wo, thy
man,
only
unlawful wife, but
your unprincely and cruel usage me, his
general judgment-seat, where both you and ‘that with speed and favour convenient,
my self must shortly appear, and whose “woll cause this good and honest merchant, judgment doubt not, (whatsoever the world “being my lords true, faithful and loving sub may think ine) mine innocence shall ‘ject, restored his pristin freedoin, openly known, and sufficiently cleared. —My “liberty and fellowship aforesaid. And the
last and only request shall be, that my self ‘sooner this our request: and your good may only bear the burthen your grace's ‘plesure hear him such things hath
displeasure, and that may not touch the in “to make further relation unto you nocent souls those poor gentlemen, who, half. Yeven under our signet,
this be my lord's
understand, are likewise strait impri ‘mannor Grenewich, the day
sonment for my sake. ever have found Such material piece history the king's
favour your sight, ever the name Anu Boleyn hath been pleasing your ears, then
reign, besides what written our historials, may deserve divers particular remarks be shewn, concerning this queen's behaviour and
let me obtain this cquest; and will leave
trouble your grace any further, with mine her speeches, from the time her commitment
earnest prayers the Trinity have your the Tower, her execution. Which am grace his good keeping, and direct wou enabled give from five six letters sir
your actions. From my doleful prison Willian Kyngston, constable, (as others) the Tower, this May. Your most lieutenant, the Tower, secretary Crum
loyal and ever faithful wife, ANN Boliy wel. And the rather, represent
afterward bishop Ely; and Mr. Paget, after
stopped, my guilt openly declared. So This queen was also great favourer those
that whatsoever God you may determine me, your grace may freed from open
censure; and mine offence being
that suffered for religion. Let this Letter en suing, writ her Crumwel, stand upon re cord here, shewing both her love such suf
lawfully both before
many religious persons out their cowles.
“Anne the Queen. Trusty and right well “beloved, wee greet you well. And whereas,
“we credibly enformed, that the bearer “hereof, Rychard Herman, merchant, and citi ‘z Antwerp Brabant, was, the time
the late lord cardinal, put and expelled
from his freedom and fellowship and ‘English-House there, for nothing else, “affirmeth, not only for that, that did, both
with his goods and policy, his great hurt and hind ance this world, help the set ting forth the New Testament English. Wee therefore desire and instantly pray you,
the
May. ”
‘ ‘ • • • • • • • inIn to as
*
• • • • * •
• • • • • • he
• • • -
• • 4. •
• . . . • • • • • • • • . . . • • • • • • • • •
N. '
to
be igto an of beto
I to of
of toat be of all of by
to
to or
or
of
of
all in
I
in
of
of let or
of
I on
I
of I or letso
a orIfto of If a ofof be on a
to
h ifit to Ianator
6'
of an
as is to
to to
so
of
of
in
I Iin of
let
fit
of
of at ifI as let
in
he
so
ason
an
no sita
to‘ 4. &‘‘‘‘of ofain
ofI to
he
of
of
of
n deofall a to ofbe aofin of
do
itis ininto of
of
to
of
in
of
to
of atas ofin a
by14
to
a
in at at of in as
he of in
to
of
of
of
a
in aininof
ye
asin he
all at
to
in to
1. p.
42) state TRIALs, as Hosoy VIII. 1536—andola, High Treason. Loo
matters concerning this queen her afflictions letter. Mrs. Cosins, gentlewoman appointed
the more largely, exactly and distinctly; which
bishop Burnet bath set down from the same papers, more briefly and imperfectly. And perhaps upon the reading what follows, some things which that reverend author attributes
fits and vapours the queen, may find better and truer interpretation. The lord Herbert
wait upon the queen here, and that lay her palate bed, said, that Norris (one those
also has given things.
added, enquire her present
only some short- hints these -
Norfolk, and some other
into dungeon answered her, No, ought should come the king, but good, you madam you shall into your lodging, that would look have me. Then said, he you lay your coronation. Upon which should have any such thought, would his she said. too good for me. And further head were off. And then she said, she could said, “Jesu have mercy me. ’ And then undo him, she would. And therewith they
kneeled down, weeping great pace. And
After the duke
the kings council who had conducted queen
any such
Anne the Tower (which was the
May) were departed, the said constable the
Tower went before her into her lodging. And
then she said him, ‘Mr. Kyngston, shall said she, You look for dead men's shoes. For
great laughing. And so she did several times afterwards. Then
fell out.
And then she said, more fear Weston
the same sorrow fell into
she desired Mr. Kyngston, move the king's
highness that she might have the sacrament
the closet her chamber, that she might pray
for mercy. “For Iain clear,’ said she, “from one the queen's maids, that courted. ] the company man, for sin, am clear And further, Kyngston related another saying,
from you and again, “the king's true wedded wife. ’ And then she said, ‘Mr.
Kyngston,
you know wherefore am here? ' and
Nay. And then she asked him, when
the king said, not since saw him Tilt-Yard, [which was but the day before Greenwich, when seemed first take displeasure against her. ] And then she asked him, pray you tell me, where my lord my father He told her, saw him afore dim ner the court. where my sweet bro ther? (for she feared the king's displeasure against her, would reach unto her relations,) Kingston replyed, left him York-place:
which the queen spake him concerning Wes ton, [whom also she had sometimes talk with, coming often her way; which might create
jealousy concerning him. ] That she had spoke with him, because did love her kins
said, saw
the
woman, Mrs. Skelton. And said
loved not his wife [spoken
him, that way re her again,
thinking convenient conceal from her,
though was committed the same day.
hear say, said she, that shall accused
three men. And can say more but, Nay: and courteous nature, would exchange words though you should open my body; and there
with she opened her gown. Adding, O! Nor
ris, hast thou accused me? thou art the Tower with me. And thou and shall die
sometimes, and enter into some talk with such she met the court; and with these gen. tlemen, who were the privy chamber: and
happened often come where she was. And some their discourse happened
together. And Mark, [another that accused
her] thou art here too. And then with much brought the king some officious person, -
compassion she said, O' my mother, thou that owed her good will.
wilt die with sorrow. And then she much la another Letter secretary Crumwel,
mented my lady Worcester (being with child) wrote these passages concerning the said queen: because her child did not stir her body. And That she much sired have there her
when the constable's wife, being present, asked, closet the sacrament; and also her amner for what might the cause, she said, was for one hour, when she was determined die
the sorrow she took for me.
Then she said, Mr. Kyngston, shall die without justice which resolved, The poorest subject the king had, had justice. And there with she laughed. All these sayings hap pened that night. The next morning con versation, with her, these specches happened; related W. Kyngston, his foresaid
[that suffer death. After examina tion her Greenwich, before some the council, the said Kyngston sent for his wife and Mrs. Cosins (who both were appointed
always with her) know them, how she had done that day. They said, she had been very merry, and made good dinner; and after, call
for supper. And then called for him,
that were accused about her) did say day last unto the queen's amner, that
speaking the queen, [as minding her concerning the occasion
trouble] Madam, why should there
unatters spoken Marry, said the queer",
bade him do so. For asked him, why he did not through with his marriage [with some lady, seems, Norris courted]. And made answer, would tarry time. Then
swear for the queen, that she was woman. And then the said gentlewoman
[another that was cast into the Tower about
Her business. ] For Weston had said unto her, that Norris came more unto her chamber for
Satur would good
her, than did for Mage [the name, suppose,
proof. ] And made answer
that he loved one her house better than
them both. And the queen said, Who that gave this answer, yourself. And then
she defied him, she said Kyngston [in scorne and displeasure, reflecting upon her
honour, undoubtedly]. These passages be tween the queen and them, was the cause all their deaths; coming some way other the jealous king's ears. For she, being frce
by
sir be
heit
:’
Itin ; a to by ! isat
in
hein no he toaon be atallis
in
a
In of is,
It
inI in
to
I
a
to
do no
of as
of
to. . . a
at
he in
in
I is.
of to us to IIO! heIgof"of
in
toto ofgo
an
tobyto of
heI
he
be to heIon
to by to
It in
to
a
for
of in
he
if to it
he of
to
to asis to I I he
is tohebe *
of to in to
atoof
if
of
a heonof
he
Itohe asasahe
of
Iit as on
inhehe
byI aat do in in I of to
edbe soas heheaof ifofto
or heof
go of
ofof go
a
431] STATE TRIALS, 28 HENRY WIII. 1530. -Proceedings against the [432
and asked him, where he had been day. And did, when put two such about her, my after some words, she began talk, and said, lady Boleyn, and Mrs. Cosins. For they could she was cruelly handled Greenwich with the tell her nothing my lord, her father, and no
Nor thing else. But that she defied them all. And that [Meaning any about her whosoever, able
said, [to what she had spoken,
her own defence] “Tut, tut, tut;' and shak But then upon this, my lady Boleyn [her kins
king's council namely, with my lord folk [who was indeed her enemy. . ]
seems charge her with any dishonourable act. ]
ing his head three four times. And for Mr. Treasurer, was, said she, the forest Windsor. You know, added the writer the letter, what she meant that. And then named Mr. Comptroller (another the coun
woman] said her, Such desire you have had such tales, [tale-carriers tellers, some perhaps her women were] have brought you this. Then said Mrs. Stoner, [another gentlewoman about her] Mark |Smeton, the musician, another committed the Tower, an accuser the queen] the worst cherished any the house. For weareth irons. The queen said, that was because was gentle
cil) very gentleman. But she queen, and cruelly handled, was
never
seen. “But think the king doth
prove me. ’ And then laughed withal; and was very
merry. And then she said, shall have jus man. And never was my chainber;
tice. Then said the constable, Have no doubt therein. Then she said, any man accuse
me, can say but nay. And they can bring witness.
And some communication with the lady Kyngston and Mrs. Cosins, would God, said she, had my bishops. For they would
[and could know less, she meant, than any,
what was done her, any with her there] but Winchester, and there she sent for him, play the virginals: for there my lodging
was above the king's. And never spake with him since, but upon Saturday before May day
[that fatal day, when the king first conceived
his jealousy. ] And then found him standing
the king for me. For think the
most part England prayeth for me. And the round window my chamber pre
die, you shall see the greatest punishment for sence. And asked him, why was sad. me within this seven years, that ever came And answered and said, was no matter. England. [This she spake doubt the And then she said, You may not look have confidence her innocency; and God's right me speak you would nobleman: eous and visible judgments for the most part, because inferior person. No, no, for shedding innocent blood. And indeed said he, look sufficeth me: and thus fare you within the seventh year following, happened well. This shews him some haughty dreadful pestilence London, and many com person; and thought the queen gave him not motions and insurrections the end of this respect enough. And might take this op reign. ] “And then,' said she, “shall portunity humble her; and revenge himself Heaven. For have done many good deeds this means her not thinking would
my days. ' Then she took notice divers cost him his own life.
women set about her, that she liked not; say Another letter William Kyngston
ing, think much unkindness the king put Crumwel, giving account this queen's be
such about me, never loved. Then Kyngs ton shewed her, that the king took them
good
honest and women. But would have
had my own privy chamber, replyed she,
which favour most,
another Letter Kyngston
relates, how she desired him
letter the said Crumwel [of whose friendship she had belief. ] But (it seems not think ing safe for him carry letters from her) said her, that she would tell him mouth, would For which she gave him thanks: and added, that she much mar welled, that the king's council came not her,
haviour her execution, published the History the Reformation, which began thus;
Crumwel, carry
Sir, o you,
this shall advertise that have
‘received your letter; wherein you would have ‘strangers conveyed out the tower. And
“so they be, the means Richard Gresham, ‘and William Loke, and Withepole. But the number strangers past not thirty; and not ‘many hothe “Armed' added in
Letter. Another Letter hers the king, beginning, “Sir, your grace's displeasure,’ &c.
same day she said, we should have rain, till she was delivered out the Tower being
vindicate her, giving, withholding the message the queen Anne, being prisoner clouds Heaven. ] To which Kyngston re the Tower; willing her confess the truth,
[thinking probably
that God (who takes care innocency) would lating imperfectly, viz. The king sending
season that wanted rain
plyed, pray, may shortly, because the
fair weather: adding, you know what mean
[that the king's reconciliation her]. Other occasional speeches hers, were
these. She said concerning such women was set about her, That the king wist what
she said, “She could confess no more, then she had already spoken. And she said, she must
“conceal nothing from the king, whom she ‘did acknowledge her self much bound for ‘many favours: for raising her first from ‘mean woman Marquess; next
ori ginal letter. Other mistakes there, this more exact transcription will rectify thus far the
the said History
, which word not the
seeming ready justify her self. The 426), published the said History. But
this passage following wrote the end her Letter, think worthy be transcribed, and
set here, the reverend author that book re
a as he
in
I all
go I to
of inhe
is,I toit InIof I of he ato
to in be ofofI a
to
itbe asI Iso
:
by
beoftoit. &.
I
heas § “‘
toto be by
be as toifno aof
to
be an on anas by to of I
of to
of
it I
he of totoI
if
he dotoof in - or
of: he at
Iitto of
as ofI in to toto itof
: no
to I itit of in
all
of in to I If by
or
ofto I no I to
it to
by a be in a
by
be he
he
*
in to
to
at so in to to tois ofatayeonof
be
ainsir: is
to bea
of
in
I in
as
so
at
of
be doit I athe to
to
oras
it no to to soof be
to so inIorhe to of ofofis to
in a
to
of as
of
is
to inis
to he a
438] STATE TRIALS, 33 HENRy VIII. 1541. -the Earl of Essex, for Treason. [434
‘ his queen. And now, seeing he could bestow flicted queen confessed to save her life, or to
* no further honour upon her on earth, for pur change the way of her execution, from burning
* posing to make her, by martyrdom, a saint in to beheading, that there never was any such
* Heaven. ”—I add one remark more concerning precontract, the said earl protested solemnly
this queen: that at this time of her being in in a letter to secretary Crumwel: who it seems the Tower, a former charge was revived against had now desired to know the truth from him
her : namely, the contract of marriage between self. Therein telling him, how he had formerly her and the present earl of Northumberland, before the two archbishops, viz. Warham and before her marrying with the king: designing, Wolsey, utterly denied it upon his oath, and ifthey could prove this, to make her former the receiving of the sacrainent : so he now marriage with the king unlawful and void ; and confirmed it in this letter. See further Fuller's
to make the smoother way for his marrying Church Hist, book 5, p. 206, 207. with the lady Jane. But whatsoever the af
34. Proceedings against Thom As CRoMw ELL, earl of Essex, for Treason : 33 Hen. VIII. A. D. 1541. Kennett's Compl.
Hist. 222. Fox's Acts and Monum. 512. Cobb. Parl. Hist. 544. ]
THAT beauty and attraction which should take the kings eye in Anne of Cleve, not a pearing, nor that conversation which should Please his ear; and her brother besides excus ing himself in the performance of some Arti cles of the Treaty, he did more willingly think of a Divorce; for which purpose, the pre-con
that any man, who medled much great and public affairs, should not divers kinds inistake, forget, and err, incur the note
criminal, when severe inquisition were made against him. And now the king caused Cromwel, arrested the Council-Table
tract with the duke of Lorain's son was chiefly pretended. For though Olesleger, chancellor of Cleves, had according to his promise, 26
edit: which Cromwel obeyed, though judg ing his perdition more certain, that the duke
Feb. 1540, procured an
out of the Records of Dusseldorp, dated Feb. 15, 1535, testifying the Sponsalia heretofore made by the parents betwixt the duke of Lorain's son, and the lady Anne, should not take effect. Yet this it seeins either was not
now affect. The
shewed, or did not satisfie our king. Howso ever it was not deposited in Archivis Regiis,
acclamations witnessed their joy; impatient are they usually the good fortune fa vourites arising from mean place, and insolent over the ill: Whereof the king being informed, proceeded more overtly, both his Parliament
ed what price soever separate himself from Anne Cleve, and together ruine Cromwel. For though had not long before
our Authors) foresaw his fall two years before, and therefore provided for his family; neither
made him knight
and high chamberlain
was odious reason
the Garter, earl Essex, England, yet
his low birth the
did the late honours give him unuch comfort security, when thought they were conferred
only make him the greater sacrifice.
Crimes and Accusations brought against the Lord Cromwell.
After this was attainted parliament;
nobility, and hated particularly Stephen
Gardiner, and the Roman catholics, for having
and that the Reformers themselves found he could not protect them from burning; and last that besides Subsidy that the clergy gave 4s. the pound, had gotten the pre sent parliament, not without much reluctation, one tenth, and one fifteen parts lay
Crimes, Surmises, Objections, and Accusa tions were brought against him, but chiefly and
above other was charged and accused
fo
the duke Norfolk, when least suspect
in
writing
king began
but found among Cromwel's Papers after his business, and the Divorce; and the rather, apprehension. And now although scruples that former faults being now imputed seemed the more considerable, that many Cromwel, every body began hope better doubts had been already cast concerning the age. But Cromwel (if we may believe some kings former Marriages, yet the king determin
operated much the dissolution Abbies; the which Attainder, divers and sundry
his autho mens goods; was universally hated which rity and letters written sheriffs and justices
our king considering, and having besides divers divers shires rescued, and discharged out Articles brought against him, now judged prison. Also that did divulgate and dis him longer necessary therefore gave perse abroad among the king's subjects great way his enemies accusations; which numbers Books, containing, they said,
could not but material vol.
being impossible manifest matter much heresy, diffidence, and
the lady Catharine Howard,
was uncle
whom the
news whereof, and his commitment the Tower being divulged, the people with many
Heresy, for that was supporter
(whom they recounted for heretics) Clark, and many other, whom
them Barns,
I.
be
to no all
in
so
;: it
he
to
2
of
he
of
[2
of
to
to of be
he he
of in : all
of by
to of to
in so
all
he
to
a
at
as
as
as of
so
he
by
of
of
he by
in
to
he
to inso
of ly,
he
ofof
he
a
in
he
he
by
ofof orofto
allas he
in 2a
in
F all to all to
at
to
1
of
a in
of to
by ofso
435] STATE TRIALS, 33 IIENRY VIII. 1541. -Proceedings against [436
misbelief. Item, that he caused to be trans John, Henry and Richard had had such lated into our English tongue Books compris counsellor about them, suppose they should ing matter expressly against the Sacrament of never have been traiterously abandoned, the Altar, and that, aster the translation there and overthrown those good princes were of, he commended and maintained the same After which, says again, loved him
for good and Christian doctrine. Over and my friend, for took him be, but chiefly besides this, they brought certain wit loved him for the love which thought saw nesses, what they were, the Attainder ex him bear ever towards your grace singularly presseth not, which most especially pressed, above others: But now, Traitor, rather oppressed, him with heinous words am sorry that ever loved him, trusted spoken against the king the Church St. him, and am very glad that his treason Peter the Poor, the month March, the discovered time; but yet again am very thirtieth year the king's reign. Which words, sorrowful; for who shall your grace trust
they true, the Attainder doth purport, hereafter, you might not trust him Alas! three things, says Fox, have here much bewail and lament your grace's chance marvel at. First, his adversaries had sure herein, wot not whom your grace may trust. hold and matter against him, then what should But pray God continually night and day move them make such hasty speed, send such counsellor his place, post haste have him dispatched and rid out whom your grace may trust, and who for all
the way, and case could abide him his qualities can and will serve your grace come his purgation? Which, might like him, and that will have much so have done, not otherwise thought, licitude and care preserve your grace from but would easily have cleared himself there. dangers, ever thought had. ' . . . All
Secondly, this marvel, that the words which, being character Cromwell had been heinous against the king, his Cranmer's opinion, have faithfully copied
enemies did pretend, why then did those wit out the Original. Not yet that will pre
nesses which heard those words St. Peter's Church, the thirtieth year the king's reign,
tend excuses for him, whom the laws have con demned; (though Fox doubts not say, “That as General Councils have sometimes been ob served err, princes and parliaments may
sometimes informed sinister heads;") but that his punishment may serve caution for those that serve severe princes, procure suf
that they do. The Cromwell seeming
long, the space almost two years, and now uttered
conceal the said words such treason
the same king's reign,
the two and thirtieth year the the month July. Thirdly, marvelled, the king had
here again
known believed these words be true, and
that Cromwell had indeed been such traitor Crimes objected
his person, why then did the king shortly chiefly usurpation
after lament his death, wishing have his certain persons not capable and granting Cromwell alive again What prince will wish certain Licences, and making certain Com
suspecteth undoubtedly missions high affairs, without the king's traitor his life and person Where knowledge: For which, though Cromwell
by may appear what judgment the king had his discretion might have found due motives; Cromwell himself, howsoever the parlia yet proceeded not warily therein, fell
ment sinister information was otherwise in into the danger the law. Furthermore, censed judge upon him. was accused for being Heretic, and favour The proceedings against him were thought ing them (But then, that the head the
the life him whom
rigorous, but few pitied him, that was
easily passed over: nevertheless, find
Original, that Cranmer wrote the king
his behalf boldly, considering the times; ‘for merriment. ) As for his speaking certain high though, letter, heard yesterday presumptuous words concerning the king, and
jesty He that was advanced your ma Cromwel thus unheard, and almost unpitied, jesty, whose surety was only your majcs being condemned while was the Tower,
ty, who loved your majesty, ever thought, omitted not write unto the king. Amongst. less than God; who studied always the rest of the Commissioners which came unto
set forward whatsoever was your majesty's will him, one there was, whom the lord Cromwell and pleasure; that cared for man's dis desired carry for him Letter the King,
his grace's council, that Traitor; yet, sundry the nobility, many thought pro he saith, who cannot be sorrowful and amazed ceeded rather out of mistaking and rashness, that should traitor against your ma than any intertion.
pleasure serve your majesty; that was which when refused, saying that
would Traitor; least to
such servant, my judgment, wisdom, diligence, faithfulnes, and experience,
carry Letter the king from then the lord Cromwell desired him
from him message the king. To that the other was contented, and granted, that Treasons, that few could secretly con were not against his allegiance. Then the
prince this realm ever had that was vigilant preserve your majesty from
ceived, but detected the same the begin lord Cromwell taking witness the other ning? the noble princes niemory, king lords, what had promised; you shall com
ficient warrant for
Churches vicegerent spiritual affairs, should an Heretic and favourer them, some
seemed strange, others gave occasion
power, set liberty
he
a
he . . "to
to toofto aIa Ias
to to he
as is
all
of be :
hehe is
in
inheno by to in if beif so a so he
it
II toillof:heantoas Iall
allso no do
to
in an
to all to or
noinoftoto ofofif a he . itbe
Ifin hehe tobyofor
in in
to be to to
in
behis a
he
he so
to
of
in so
in
so it is
a is he
he*
no
of
sohe IbyatoI toif to ofin
as
of
as all of soin by as in of
no
be beallto as of to I
in
if inI
toin
beof Iin ifasin
in ofall Ito Iso toahe an by
I
ofto
in
to as
of
in
he
of
of it,to
if Ito“I
2,
ata
so ofheto I
he
at
of he in be in
a
or 1
it to
of
I
in
so as
so he
2,
atohe I Iso be
is as:”
a
437] STATE TRIALS, 33 Henry VIII. 1541. -the Earl of Essex, for Treason. [438 mend me, said he, to the king, and tell him, which die in thee; I wretched sinner do submit
myself wholly unto thy most blessed will, and
being sure that the thing cannot perish which committed unto thy mercy, willingly now
leave this frail and wicked flesh, sure hope that thou wilt better wise restore me
by that he hath so well tried, and thoroughly
proved you as I have done, he shall find you as false a man as ever came about him. —Besides
this, he wrote also a Letter from the Tower to
the king, whereof when none durst take the carriage upon him, Ralf Sadler, (whom
again the last day the resurrection the also had preferred the king before, being just. beseech thee, most merciful Lord Jesus
ever trusty and faithfull unto him) went unto Christ, that thou wilt thy grace inake strong
the king understand his pleasure, whether he would permit him bring the letter not, which when the king had granted, the said master Sadler, was required, presented the Letter unto the king, which coinmanded thrice read unto him, insomuch the king seemed moved therewith.
my soul against temptations, and defend me with the buckler thy mercy against the
assaults the devil. see and acknowledge that there myself hope salvation, but my confidence, hope and trust thy most merciful goodness. have merits nor good works, which may alledge before thee. Of sins aud evil works (alas) see great heap; but yet through thy mercy trust
the number of them whom thou wilt not
impute their sins; but wilt take and accept me for righteous and just, and the inheritor everlasting life. Thou merciful Lord was
born for my sake, thou didst suffer both hunger and thirst for my sake; thou didst teach, pray, and fast for my sake: thy holy actions and works thou wroughtest for my sake; thou suf feredst most grievous pains and torments for my sake: finally, thou gavest thy most pre cious body and thy blood shed the Cross for my sake. Now most merciful Sa viour, let these things profit me, that thou freely hast done for me, which hast given thy self also for me. Let thy blood cleanse and wash away the spots and foulness my sins. Let thy righteousness hide and cover my un
The Lord Cromwell brought
lord Cromwell, oppressed his enemies, and
condemned the Tower, and not coming his Answer, the 28th July 1541, was brought
Notwithstanding,
the Act
reason
Parliament afore passed, the worthy and noble
the scaffold on Tower-hill, where these words following;
said
purge Fo
“I myself,
the Scaffold.
For and
should do, were very wretch miser. am the law condemned
am ceine hither die and not some think peradventure that
die, and thank my Lord God, that has ap
pointed
sithence the time that have had years
cretion, have lived sinner, and offended my
Lord God, for the which ask him heartily for
giveness. And not unknown many
you, that have been great traveller this righteousness. Let the merits thy passion world, and being but base degree, was and blood-shedding satisfaction for my sins.