Sheffield, Sir John St Leger, Sir — Wymbish, Sir Christopher Danby, and Vernon of the Peak, for baronies. The King entered opposite to each name the grants which should accompany the titles; and Paget had then submitted the Royal intentions to the different candidates.
Some of these gentlemen, however, were unambitious; others, perhaps, considered the estates allotted them too small to maintain an increased rank. There was a general expression of dissatisfaction, and the King hesitated what to do. Paget was directed to make another list, entering himself the endowments which would be thought adequate. A dukedom he again fixed for Hertford, and an earldom for his son, 'with 800 pound lands, and 300 pound of the next bishop's lands which should fall vacant.' Sir Thomas Seymour should be Lord Seymour of Sudleye, with 500l. lands; and he suggested grants on a similar scale for all the rest of the executors except for himself. The new schedule was read over to Henry in the presence of Sir William Herbert and Sir Anthony Denny.
'Mr Secretary has remembered all men save one,' said Herbert. 'You mean himself,' replied the King. 'I remember him well enough, and he shall be helped.'
But no distinct conclusion was arrived at. The grants were profuse and the Crown was in debt. Henry 'put the book in his poke,' and died without returning to the subject.[1]
The silence, however, was construed favourably,
- ↑ Records of the Privy Council: Edward VI. MS. Council Office.
