[Francis's anger over his son being a ‘hostage’]
. Bishop of Faenza to M. Ambrogio. 8 June 1535
Hears that the reason Francis was angry with the English was for insisting that the duke of Angoulême should go to England, alleging that he had promised it; which he denies, and says he will not send a son to be hostage in England, with other disdainful words. Nevertheless, knows that the King has said that the marriage will take place.
Hears that the Carthusians whom the King himself tried to persuade to recognise him as Head of the Church are in prison with chains round their necks, and will certainly be put to death, but perhaps not so publicly, for fear of the displeasure of the people, which was shown at the death of the others.
They have also taken in England about 25 Anabaptists, with whom Cranmer, (Dr. Chramuel,) and others of the Court disputed; and, not knowing how to defend themselves, they said that the Holy Spirit inclined them to it.
For this several of them have been already executed, and it appears that the King intends to persecute this sect as much as he can, as it already has firm footing in England. Amiens, 8 June.