Thomas Cromwell's downfall

On 12th June 1540, two days after his arrest, Thomas Cromwell wrote to Henry VIII pleading for his life. The letter, written from the Tower, was probably not read by the king. Fortunately it still survives and is currently on display at the Henry VIII exhibition at the British Library. Within Cromwell implores: "ffor myne offencys to your grace which god knowyth wer neuer malycyous nor willffull and that I neuer thought treson to your highness your Realme or posteryte so god helpe me ayther in woorde or dede, neuertheles prostrate at your magestes [feet] in what thing soever I have offendyd I appell to your highnes ffor mercy grace and pardon". Later, after realising he was to die, he wrote a final letter to Henry, asking him to be kind to his family. However he could not help but make one last plea: "Most gracyous prynce I crye for mercye mercye mercye"