"[1] What followed is
interesting. Letters asking for the books were sent to the
king, to Mr. John Somersett, His Majesty's physician, "lately
come to influence," to William of Waynflete, provost of the
king's pet project, Eton College, and much in favour; and
to the king's chamberlain (1447). As these appeals were
unavailing, another letter was sent to the king in 1450,
and several others to influential persons, some being to
Gloucester's executors; then, in the same year, the House of
Lords was petitioned. All this wire-pulling failed to serve
its end. The University became angry. An outspoken
letter was sent to Master John Somersett, "lately come to
influence": "Our proctor, Mr. Luke, tells us of your
efforts for us to obtain the books given by the late Duke
of Gloucester, and of your intercession with the king in our
cause: also that you propose to add, of your own gift,
other books to his bequest." All this is very good of you,
the letter proceeds, in effect, "but how is it that, under
these circumstances, the Duke's books, which came into
your custody, are not delivered to us, unless it be that
some powerful influence is exerted to prevent it; for a
steadfast and good man will not be made to swerve from
the path of justice by interest or cupidity.
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