1490 - Margaret Beaufort and Henry VII

In 1490, things in England were relatively peaceful for Henry VII. He had a new baby, Margaret, born in November 1489, and Perkin Warbeck was in Europe building support, but not causing too much grief. (Yet.)

In June 1490, Henry wrote to Pope Innocent VIII on behalf of his mother, Margaret Beaufort. Lady Beaufort had requested indulgences for her chapel, and Henry hoped the Pope would grant these for her. Specifically, she wished for some apostolic indulgences; items which have been blessed, in this case, by the pope.

Henry writes, 'we pray that you will accede to her desire and her holy project', suggesting that this request isn't only for her own interest, but those of the people who will visit this chapel, and the souls of those who will be prayed for within its walls.

This letter is a brief but sincere insight into the relationship between Henry and his mother, as well as her own personal piety and devotion to her faith.