Richard was brought into the court of King Henry VIII by an alliance with Thomas Cromwell , the great favourite of Henry , whom that monarch raised from a humble situation to be Earl of Essex , Vicar-General , and Knight of the Garter . Introduced to Henry VIII , by so powerful an interest as Cromwell , and possessing many qualifications , Richard Williams soon benefitted from the royal bounty which Henry lavished on his favourites . He was entrusted with considerable appointments early in the administration of his relation ; and it appears that he was active in suppressing the Pilgrimage of Grace insurrection
Pilgrimage of Grace
Pilgrimage of Grace
Richard Williams (alias Cromwell)