Pynson used heraldic emblems with the helmet of an esquire on some of his bindings; but he appears to have assumed the dignity without official warrant.
Berthelet’s continued presence in England was also considered of sufficient importance to justify a special exemption in his favour from serving the king abroad in his wars in France. (Patent Roll. 36 Hen. VIII., Pt. II.)
In the state papers preserved in the Record Office in London are several notices referring to the official printing work done by Thomas Berthelet. These testify to the importance and confidential nature of the work intrusted to him, and show how he was sometimes, on particularly urgent or secret occasions, ordered to set up the type himself, and also was obliged to take an oath of secrecy. Misprints were evidently a thorn in his side, more than one entry referring to such difficulties, of which doubtless numbers escaped official notice. From these entries I have chosen a few for quotation.
Oct 22ⁿᵈ 1530. To Thos Bartlet (Berthelet) for printing 1600 papers and books of proclamation for ordering and punishing sundry beggars and vacabundes, and dampnyng of books containing certain errors, at 1ᵈ per leaf. £8 6ˢ 8ᵈ.
(Trevelyan Papers. Record Office. Letters and Papers Hen. 8ᵗʰ Vol. 5. p. 322.)
Richard Croke to Cromwell 17ᵗʰ Septʳ. 1532.
After I left, Bartelot, the printer, told me that Goodrycke requested him to advertise the King of certain errors in “The Glasse off Truthe,” which Bartelot refused, saying he had moved the King in such matters beforetime, and his Grace was not content with it. Though this was told Croke secretly, thinks it his duty to make it known to Cromwell, and that he should get out by policy from Goodricke what errors he notes. Thinks that Bartelot will speak of it to others.
(Letters and Papers Hen. 8ᵗʰ Vol. 5. No. 1320. p. 572.)
Cromwell to Sir Thomas Audeley, Lord Chancellor. 11ᵗʰ Novʳ. 1534.
It is necessary to have some copies of the proclamation printed to night, that they may be sent to sundry parts with the books of answer. Desires him to send a true copy by the bearer. Will then send for Bartelet the printer, swear him and cause him to have them printed to-night. The Rolls, 11 Nov.