François I

King of France

Francis I, King of France

Francis I (1494 – ) has been King of France since 1515. He succeeded his first cousin once removed and father-in-law Louis XII, who died without a legitimate son.

Week 11: 'Alas, What Shall I Do For Love?' (Part 2) / Early Mass

Cromwell meets the king at Boulogne. Francis can’t get his head around Cromwell, who is not from “some family of humble Tudor retainers.” He cannot understand why Henry wants to marry his mistress either. “Does he think she is a maid? Myself, I never tried her. When she was here at court, she was young and as flat as a bored. Her sister, however —'

He gives Cromwell a pair of gloves. And inside: a ruby. Henry: “One day Francis will offer you a pension. You must take it.”

Later, after a great feast, Francis looks ready to “try” Lady Anne, before Cromwell makes Norfolk intervene.