From Bishop Nicholas West of Ely to Wolsey

Since he (West) went to his cathedral fourteen days before Michaelmas to give orders according to Wolsey’s ordinance, he has been so surrounded with water that he cannot leave and no-one can come to him without great danger, except by boat. The cattle is nearly all lost. Men who had 100 pounds worth have now scare 20 pounds. Has had great trouble and expense in keeping the banks lest all the low country of Marsheland should be drowned. Five hundred men were lately working at the banks at one time; for the water was risen so high that a man might have swept it over the banks with a feather. A hundred men and sometimes more have been watching at night in case the water broke in, that they might stop it or else ring the bells to warn the country which they have done several times.

This has prevented him (West) from doing his duty to Wolsey but the honourable renown and great fame of your grace in administration of indifferent justice and keeping this noble realm in such good order tranquillity and peace as never was seen within memory of man, specially in punishing misdoers and exalting noble and virtuous men, so spreadeth over all to your great honour, glory and merit; that it is to me specially your daily bedeman, faithful lover and chaplain; and all other your lovers and faithful servants, a singular great comfort; for I rejoiced so to hear of it and I repute and count all my said charge and pain but as a pastime and a punishment for my sins and misdeeds. West asks for three or four words from his (Wolsey’s) secretary to assure him of his good health.

Somersham