Historiae Cantebrigiensis Academiae ab urbe condita, liber primus [-secundus]

(as I have reported), as can be known from the monuments of ancient writers. To this author, the Academy traces the glory of its origin; him it acknowledges as its founder, as is clear from his letter to Philip, King of Spain, written on the 4th of the Kalends of August August 29, in the year of salvation 1554. To this, the same most illustrious King replied in these words: "Faithful, learned, devout, and beloved by us, the letter which you sent to our majesty on the 4th of the Kalends of August was most pleasing to us, because from it we understood how welcome our arrival into these Kingdoms has been to you, and how much you both wish and ought to hope for from us. Nor is this without reason, for we, both because of the charity and benevolence we feel toward all students of the fine arts and letters, and especially because that Academy of yours had those beginnings or increases which we are bound by so many causes and titles to protect and promote. Therefore, we shall embrace the Cambridge Academy in such a way that we shall not concede the primary role in any matter to him whom you boast of as your author, nor to those kings (however many there have been in this kingdom) who were most favorable to you. You, therefore, be strong, and with the diligence and assiduity you are accustomed to, apply yourselves to these studies of yours: expect from us all grace, favor, and munificence. New Windsor, 3rd of the Ides of August August 11, 1554." But whoever doubts these things, let him read our book On the Antiquity of Cambridge. Whoever was in charge of this Academy was called Rector for many centuries; later he was called Chancellor; in our age, he is called Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor, the vicar of the Chancellor, about whom more later, for today the Chancellor is not a private man of the Academy, as he once was, but someone of the nobility who favors letters, in whose place a Pro-Chancellor is now appointed, who nevertheless is elected and performs all duties as the Chancellor once did, looking to and consulting the Chancellor only in doubtful and difficult matters.

Rectors of the Academy.