Son of Ralph Lovell of Beachamwell, Norfolk. Studied Law at Lincoln's Inn and practised in Norfolk. Joined revolt against Richard III in 1483. In 1485 he served as Speaker of the House of Commons in Henry VII's first Parliament, and in the same year was made Treasurer of the King's Chamber and Chancellor of the Exchequer. He was a leading councillor of both Henry VII and Henry VIII. He fought for Henry VII and the Battle of Stoke Field (1487), in France (1492), and in putting down the Cornish Rebellion (1497). In Henry VIII's wars of 1511-1514 he supervised the procurement of artillery and the fortification of Calais. Other offices held included: Treasurer of the King's Household (1503); Lieutenant of the Tower of London (1513), and Steward of the Universities of Oxford (1507) and Cambridge (1509).

Son of Sir John Marney of Layer Marney, Essex, and Jane Throckmorton. Served as Privy Councillor for Henry VII in 1485-1487 and for Henry VIII in 1509. Fought for Henry VII at the Battle of Stoke Field, 1487, and in putting down the Cornish Rebellion in 1497. Fought for Henry VIII in France in 1513. He held positions of power in Essex, including J.P. and M.P., and by Henry VIII was given offices including Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (1509), Vice-Chamberlain and Captain of the King's Guard, constable of Castle Rising, steward of the Duchy of Cornwall, and Lord Privy Seal (1523).