Charters of the abbots: William Postard (nos. 307-26)

Westminster Abbey Charters, 1066 - c.1214. Originally published by London Record Society, London, 1988.

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'Charters of the abbots: William Postard (nos. 307-26)', in Westminster Abbey Charters, 1066 - c.1214, (London, 1988) pp. 160-175. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/london-record-soc/vol25/pp160-175 [accessed 17 March 2024]

William Postard (nos. 307–26)

307. Agreement whereby Abbot William and the convent demised to Alfwin the dyer the house which William de Camera and Elfgiva Lombard his wife gave to the abbey, to hold for eight years at a yearly rent of 9s. [c. 21 April 1196]

Hec est conventio facta inter + Abbatem + Willelmum Westmonasterii et eiusdem loci conventum et Alfwinum teintere, videlicet: quod idem abbas et conventus dimiserunt ei domum suam quam Willelmus de Camera et Elfgiva Lumbard' uxor eius eis dederunt, tenendam de eis usque ad viij annos completos; reddendo inde annuatim predicto abbati et conventui pro omni servicio ix solidos, videlicet: quatuor solidos et vj denarios in Festo Sancti Michaelis, et totidem ad Pascham. Completis itaque octo annis dicta domus quieta et absoluta remanebit predicto abbati et conventui. Terminus autem octo annorum predictorum inceptus ad proximam (fn. 1) Pascham post mortem abbatis de Cadamo qui venit cum Magistro Philippo Dunelmensi electo in Anglia. Hiis testibus: Willelmo de Camera; Magistro Ernaldo; Magistro Simone de Bareswrth; Simone camerario; Jacobo hostiario; Roberto marescallo, et aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 486.

Rubric: Cirographum inter abbatem et conventum Westmonasterii et Alfwinum teinterer de quadam domo ad terminum octo annorum.

Date: Robert, abbot of St Stephen's, Caen, d. 11 April 1196 (William of Newburgh, Historia Rerum Anglicarum, in vols. I and II of Chronicles of the Reigns of Stephen, Henry II and Richard I, ed. R. Howlett (4 vols., RS, 1884–9), Newburgh II, 465; Howden, Chronica IV, 5). Easter 1196 fell on 21 April.

308. Assignment by Abbot William to the abbey chamberlain of 9s. from land which Elfgiva Lombard gave, and 1s. from our headland, to be paid to Godfrey de St Martin until he receives one of our churches within the walls of the City of London. [1196 × 1200]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Willelmus abbas Westmonasterii assignavi camerario conventus nostri quo pro tempore fuerit, novem solidos de terra quam Elfgiva Lumbarda ecclesie nostre in elemosinam dedit, et duodecim denarios de caputio nostro, per manum suam annuatim recipiendos, et Godefrido de Sancto Martino solvendos, donec idem Godefridus unam ecclesiarum nostrarum inter muros civitatis London', quam ei promisimus, habeat. Cum autem iamdictus G[odefridus] ecclesiam a nobis receperit et habuerit, camerarius conventus nostri prefatos decem solidos amplius non percipiet, sed sicut fuerunt prius in (libera)c nostra libera disposicione erunt. Et ut hec nostra assignacio stabilis interim perseveret, huic scripto nostro sigilli nostri munimentum apposuimus. Testibus: Philippo, et Adam, et Gilebert, capellanis et monachis nostris.

MS: WAD, f. 650.

Rubric: Littera Willelmi abbatis Westmonasterii de ix solidis assignatis camerario Westmonasterii.

Date: Later than 307 and 353.

309. Quitclaim by Abbot William and the convent to Henry Fitz Reygner of 3s. rent at the gate of his house, which he holds of the abbey's chamber, in exchange for certain land near the white monastery of the Holy Innocents towards the Thames. [1191 × 1200]

Noverint omnes ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit quod ego Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et totus eiusdem loci conventus relaxavimus et quietum clamavimus Henrico filio Reygneri et heredibus suis inperpetuum tres solidatas redditus ad portam domus sue quas de camera nostra tenuit et warantizabimus in escambium cuiusdam terre prope album monasterium Sanctorum Innocentium ex altera parte, scilicet versus Tamisiam. Que terra versus vicum habet in latitudine xxxj aune; in medio xxxvij aunes, et versus Tamisiam xxxiiij aunes; in longitudine centum et deus (fn. 2) aunes. Predictus autem Henricus warantizabit nobis terram predicti escambij contra omnes homines et contra omnes feminas. Et ut hoc ratum et firmius permaneat sigilli nostri apposicione roboravimus. Hiis testibus: Thebabaldo senescallo nostro; Magistro Waltero de London', Penthecoste de Wanleswrth'; Rogero Enganeth; Ricardo portario; Stephano de Berkinge; Jacobo hostiario abbatis; Johanne pincerna abbatis, et multis aliis. Et hec sunt nomina illorum qui terras predicti escambii tenuerunt et quietas clamaverunt in curia domini regis cum uxoribus et heredibus suis inperpetuum pro octo marcis quas propter predictam terram acceperunt, scilicet, Ansgod le corveser et Bertelmeu le fiz Godwine.

MS: WAD, f. 472v.

Rubric: Escambium abbatis et conventus Westmonasterii de quoddam redditu iij solidorum iuxta portam Henrici filii Reygneri pro quoddam terram iuxta album monasterium Sanctorum Innocentium.

Note: For the Holy Innocents (St Mary le Strand), see Brooke and Keir, 140.

310. Final concord between Walter, son of Thurstan of Colham, and Abbot William and the convent of Westminster, whereby Walter quitclaimed his right in the seneschalcy of the abbey, in return for an annual payment of five marks from the abbey's chamber, until they recompensed him with £10 worth of rents for his lifetime, or less if it should be acceptable. Curia Regis, Westminster 27 Aug. 1198.

Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia domini regis apud Westmonasterium die Jovis proxima post Festum Sancti Bartholomei anno regni Regis Ricardi ixo, coram H[uberto] Cantuariensi archiepiscopo, G[alfrido] filio Petri, Ricardo Eliensi archidiacono, Magistro Thoma de Husseborne, Ricardo de Herierd, Willelmo de Warenn', Osberto filio Hervei, Johanne de Gestling', justiciariis, et aliis baronibus et fidelibus domini regis ibidem tunc presentibus, inter Walterum filium Thurstani de Coleham, petentem, et Willelmum abbatem de Westmonasterio et conventum eiusdem loci, tenentes, de senescaucia abbatie de Westmonasterio, unde placitum fuit inter eos in prefata curia, scilicet: quod predictus Walterus remisit et quietum clamavit predictis abbati et successoribus suis totum ius et clamium suum quod habuit in predicta senescaucia, de se et heredibus suis in perpetuum. Et pro hoc fine et concordia et quieto clamio, predictus abbas et conventus concesserunt dare predicto Waltero annuatim quinque marcas argenti, ad duos terminos anni, scilicet: ad Festum Sancti Michaelis duas marcas et dimidiam, et ad Pascham duas marcas et dimidiam, de camera ipsius abbatis donec ei satisfecerint de decem libratis redditus in tota vita sua, vel de minus quo pacatus fuerit. MIDDELSEX'

MSS: (1) PRO, C.P.25(1) 146/1, no. 13.

(2) WAD, f. 91v.

Pd: Fines 9 Ric I, no. 206, p. 159.

Cal: Fines London & Mddx, I, 2 no. 14.

Note: The phrase in tota vita sua has been given its usual translation in the heading. However, in this instance it might be translated as 'in the course of his life', since it is not otherwise clear why the sum due to Walter should initially be only £3. 6s. 8d. per annum, if there is an eventual obligation to render him £10 annually. For the preceding lawsuit, see Rot. Curiae Regis, I, 138.

311. Confirmation by Abbot William to the king's chamberlain, Robert Mauduit [II], and his heirs, of the abbey's houses in Longditch in Westminster, with the lands which William, the usher of Abbot Walter, gave to the abbey. [Oct. 1194 × May 1200]

Noverint presentes et futuri quod ego Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et totius eiusdem loci conventus, communi assensu et voluntate concessimus, et presenti hac carta nostra confirmavimus Roberto Mauduit, camerario domini regis, et heredibus suis, in villa Westmonasterii domos nostras de Langedich; habendas et tenendas de nobis libere et quiete, cum omnibus terris et pratis, quas scilicet Willelmus, hostiarius Abbatis Walteri, ecclesie nostre concessit et dedit; reddendo inde singulis annis finabiliter infirmario nostro qui pro tempore fuerit undecim solidos ad duos terminos: ad Pascha, videlicet, v solidos et vj denarios, et ad Festum Sancti Michaelis v solidos et vj denarios, pro omni servicio. Et est sciendum quod predictus Robertus et heredes sui reddent annuatim pro prefata terra ad firmam ville Westmonasterii duodecim denariorum; et Johanni filio Eadwardi et heredibus suis octo denariorum; et Ricardo filio Eadmundi et heredibus suis octo denariorum. Ut autem hec nostra concessio futuris temporibus stabilis et rata permaneat, eam presentis scripti testimonio et sigilli nostri appositione roboravimus. His testibus: Willelmo de Hely, thesaurario domini regis; Simone de Pateshill'; Johanne de la Wike; Andrea de Scaccario; Thoma de Windlesour'; Willelmo filio Roberti; Rogero Enganet; Albino computatore; Roberto de Rokingham'; Hugone de Fonte; Galfrido de Cruce; Johanne filio Eadwardi; Stephano de Berking'; Alexandro de Eie; Roberto de Fraxineto; Willelmo de Avenay; Johanne filio Willelmi filii Roberti; Normanno Borel'; Ludovico clerico de Rokingham', qui hanc cartam scripsit, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 17614.

23.8 × 15.2 cm; t.u. 3.5 cm. Slit, slotted tag. Top edge cut: Cirographum.

Seal: green; fragment; 3 × 2 cm. Obverse: hand with bow, pointing right; legend: T ... C..

Reverse: classical motif: man leaning on a staff, facing right; legend: SIG[ILLUM] R[OBERTI M]ALDVT.

Endorsed: (a) Carta Willelmi abbatis et conventus Westmonasterii facta Roberto Maudut, camerario domini regis, et heredibus suis, de domibus nostris de Langedich cum omnibus terris et pratis quondam Willelmi hostilarii Abbatis Walteri in villa Westmonasterii (13C). (b) Carta Willelmi abbatis Westmonasterii Roberto Mawdit reddendo xj solidorum et xij et xvj denariorum Longditch (16C). (c) Non registratur con.... (d) Carta (16C).

(2) BL Add. MS 28024, ff. 46v–47.

Pd: Richardson, 'William of Ely', 83 (from WAM and BL Add. MS); Beauchamp Cartulary, no. 190 (from WAM).

312. Confirmation by Abbot William to the king's chamberlain, Robert Mauduit [II], of licence to have a chapel in his house adjacent to Longditch, Westminster, without prejudice to the parish church of St Margaret. [c. 1195 × 1200]

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens carta pervenerit Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et eiusdem loci conventus, eternam in Domino salutem. Noverit universitas vestra nos, ad peticionem et instanciam baronum domini regis, concessisse et hac presenti carta nostra confirmasse Roberto Mauduit, domini regis camerario, et heredibus suis ut habeant capellam suam in villa Westmonasterii in curia sua iuxta Langedich, absque omni dampno et detrimento parrochiane ecclesie, videlicet: ut nullum de parochianis in capella sua admittant, unde parochialis ecclesia detrimentum aliquod paciatur. Tali quidem conventione quod ipse Robertus et heredes sui singulis annis finabiliter de predicta capella ad magnum altare nostrum ij bisantias persolvent, unum scilicet ad Pascha et alterum ad Festum Sancti Michaelis. Si autem contigerit purificaciones in capella predicta fieri, non aliter fient nisi in presentia parochiani sacerdotis, qui omnes oblaciones ibi recipiet, quod quidem ita statuimus, ut de nullo vel de nulla fiant ibi sponsalia nuptie vel purificaciones qui sint de parochia Sancte Margarete. Si vero contigerit aliquem de familia sua infirmari, confessionem, unccionem, communionem, et ea que Christiani sunt, a capella Sancte Margarete percipiet, et que debita sunt eccl[es]iastica eidem capelle Sancte Margarete persolvet. Et si forte prefatus Robertus et uxor eius de villa recesserint, quamdiu absentes erunt, serviens eius qui ibidem domos suas et curiam suam custodiet, ad parrochialem ecclesiam divinum audiet officium, et que debita sunt ecclesiastica ibidem persolvet. Si autem contigerit quod prefatus Robertus vel heredes sui a solutione prenominate pensionis quandoque cessaverint, liberam habebit potestatem abbas qui pro tempore fuerit in predicta capella divinum prohibendi officium. Juravit etiam predictus Robertus in capitulo nostro, tactis sacrosanctis evangeliis, quod predictam pensionem sicut prelocutum est solvet, nec artem vel ingenium committeret, unde prenominata pensio ecclesie Westmonasterii umquam ullo tempore subtrahatur aut minuatur. Et ut hec nostra concessio futuris temporibus stabilis et rata permaneat, eam presentis scripti testimonio et sigilli nostri apposicione roboravimus. Hiis testibus: Willelmo de Aubeygni; Simone de Pateshull'; Ricardo de Heriet; Willelmo thesaurario; Magistro Willelmo de Neket'; Magistro Ernulfo, fratre abbatis; Theobaldo, senescallo nostro; Johanne de la Wike; Andrea de Scaccario; Willelmo filio Roberti; Willelmo Borel; Thoma de Windlesor; Ricardo janitore; Rogero Enganet; Roberto de Rokingham; Albino computatore; Henrico Sumer; Alexandro de Eya; Johanne [filio] Edwardi; Lodovico clerico qui hoc cirografphum scripsit, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 352r–v.

Rubric: Carta W. abbatis et conventus Westmonasterii de quadam capella constituenda in curia Roberti Mauduit, reddendo per annum ij bisantias.

Pd: Mason, 'The Mauduits and their Chamberlainship', 19.

Date: William Postard d. 4 May 1200 (Flete, 44). William of Ely became treasurer c. 1195 × 1197 (Richardson, 'William of Ely', 48).

313. Confirmation by Abbot William to William of Ely, the king's treasurer, of lands and houses in Westminster given to him by Richard, bp. of London. [post 20 April 1196, prob. later 1196]

Universis Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis, Guillielmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et totus eiusdem loci conventus, salutem eternam in Christo. Quos ecclesiarum necessitatibus utiliores futuros esse conicimus, eis in beneficiis prompcius et devocius providere debemus. Eapropter karissimo nostro et speciali amico Guillielmo de Ely, thesaurario domini regis, terras et domos quas tenuit venerabilis pater noster Ricardus Lundoniensis episcopus in villa Westmonasterii, ab eodem episcopo dicto thesaurario donatas, ipsi et illi cui ipse eas assignare voluerit, et heredibus illius, de nobis hereditario iure tenendas concedimus, et sigillorum nostrorum attestacione confirmamus. Quas volumus eum tenere quiete, honorifice, pacifice, sicut unquam memoratus Lundoniensis episcopus melius et liberius eas possedit, ita sane ut singulis annis in Translacione Beati Regis Edwardi cereum unum duarum librarum inde persolvat ecclesie nostre pro omnibus serviciis, sectis, consuetudinibus et exactionibus. His testibus: Magistro Ernulpho; Theobaldo de Fering', senescallo; Alano, capellano domini Lundoniensis episcopi; Rogero Enganet; Ricardo portario; Thoma de Niewegate, scriptore; Johanne de Storteford; Willelmo, capellano thesaurarii; Willelmo de Castello; Albino; Henrico Sumer; Roberto filio Gerini; Ada de Esenden'; Guillielmo de Wand', et pluribus aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 17313

18.3. × 11.5 cm; t.u. 2 cm. Two slits but tag and seal missing.

Endorsed: (a) Carta Gervasii (sic) abbatis Westmonasterii de quadam terra et domibus quas R. episcopus London' tenuit et concessit Guillielmo de Ely thesaurario regis, pro redditu j° [cerei duarum] librarum in Festo Translationis Sancti Edwardi coram dicto sancto inveniendo (13C). (b) Sacrist' (14C).

(2) WAD, f. 363r–v.

Pd: Richardson, 'William of Ely', 80–81 (from WAD).

Date: cf. 219.

314. Final concord between Stephen of Turnham and Edelina his wife, claimants, against Abbot William. Stephen and Edelina quitclaimed their rights in one and a half virgates and two hides in Battersea (Surr.) and the abbot granted them a piece of land in Westminster by the Thames next to the church of the Holy Innocents. Curia Regis, Westminster 11 Nov. 1198.

Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia domini regis apud Westmonasterium die Mercurii in Festo Sancti Martini anno regni Regis Ricardi x°, coram E[ustachio] Eliensi, P[hilippo] Dunelmensi, episcopis; G[aufrido] filio Petri; Willelmo de Sancte Marie (fn. 3) Ecclesie; Willelmo Brawer; (fn. 4) Ricardo de Heriet; Reginaldo de Argentom', et aliis domini regis fidelibus ibidem tunc presentibus, inter Stephanum de Turnham et Edelinam uxorem eius, petentes, per ipsum Stephanum positum loco eiusdem (fn. 6) Edeline ad lucrandum vel perdendum, et abbatem de Westmonasterio, tenentem, de una virgata terre et dimidia et duabus hidis terre cum pertinentiis in Patricheseye. Unde recognitio de Morte Antecessoris summonita fuit inter eos in prefata curia, scilicet: quod predictus Stephanus et Edelina remiserunt et quietum clamaverunt de se et heredibus suis totum ius et clamium quod habuerunt in predicta terra eidem abbati et eius successoribus in perpetuum: et pro hac remissione et quieta clamantia predictus abbas dedit predictis Stephano et Edeline quandam terram in Westmonasterio contra ecclesiam Sanctorum Innocentium, cuius latitudo versus (fn. 7) vicum continet xxxj ulnas et in medio continet xxxvij ulnas et versus Thamisam continet in latitudine xxxiiij (fn. 8) ulnas et in longitudine quicquid continetur inter vicum de Westmonasterio et Thamisam, tenendam eiusdem Stephano et Edeline et heredibus eorum de predicto abbate et eius successoribus in perpetuum; reddendo inde annuatim in Festo Sancti Michaelis eidem abbati vel eius successoribus unam libram piperis vel sex denarios pro omni servitio. Et predictus abbas et successores eius debent warantizare predictam terram predictis Stephano et Edeline et heredibus eorum contra omnes homines. Surr' (fn. 5) Middelsex (fn. 5)

MSS: (1) PRO, C.P.25(1), 282/3, no. 62.

(2) WAD, f. 168v.

Rubric: (1) Batricheseye'. (2) Concordia inter Stephanum de Turnham et Edelinam uxorem eius et abbatem Westmonasterii de una virgata terre et dimidia et duabus hidis terre in villa de Bat[ri]ch'.

Pd: Fines 10 Ric. I, no. 126, pp. 84–85.

Cal: Fines Surrey, 212; Browning & Kirk, 239.

Note: On the correct style of William de Ste-Mere-Eglise at this date, cf. Fasti I, 2. On Battersea, cf. Harvey, WA, 357–8.

315. Grant by Abbot William of the church of Sunbury (Mddx.) to Gilbert of Cranford, at the request of Mr Adam of Cranford, for an annual pension payable to the chamberlain. [1191 × 1200]

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et eiusdem loci conventus, salutem in Domino. Noverit universitas vestra quod nos de communi consensu et voluntate tocius capituli nostri, ad instanciam et petitionem Magistri Ade de Cramford, dedimus et concessimus Gilleberto de Cramford, clerico, ecclesiam de Sunnebury cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, in liberam et perpetuam elemosinam, solvendo camerario nostro annuatim nomine pensionis duas marcas argenti ad duos terminos anni, scilicet: ad Festum Sancti Michaelis unam marcam, et ad Annunciacionem Sancte Marie unam marcam. Quod ne tractu temporis possit in dubium vel in irritum revocari hanc nostram concessionem et donacionem presentis scripti attestacione et sigilli nostri appositione corroborare et communire curavimus. Hiis testibus: Ada de Sunnebiry; Martino de Capella; Thoma pincerna; Asculfo de Cramford; Philippo de Sancto Michaele, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 506.

Rubric: Littera abbatis et conventus Westmonasterii super donacione ecclesie de Sunneburi, salva pensione duarum marcarum.

Marginalia: Sunnebury.

Date: The abbot is almost certainly William Postard: cf. the earlier attestation of Adam of Sunbury (301).

Note: Cf. Harvey, WA, 354.

316. Final concord between Ailward of Charing and Hawise his wife, plaintiffs, and Abbot William, tenant, who acknowledged their right in three virgates of land in Teddington (Mddx.). Curia Regis, Westminster 26 Nov. 1197.

Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia domini regis apud Westmonasterium in crastino Sancte Katerine anno regni Regis Ricardi ixm, coram Domino H[uberto] Cantuariensi archiepiscopo, Radulfo Herefordense, Ricardo Eliensi archidiacono, Magistro Thoma de Husseburn', Willelmo de Warenna, Ricardo de Herierd', Osberto filio Hervei, justiciariis, et aliis baronibus et fidelibus domini regis tunc ibi presentibus, inter Ailwardum de Cherringe et Hawissam uxorem suam, petentes, et abbatem Westmonasterii, tenentem, de iijbus virgatis terre cum pertinenciis in Tudinton', unde recognicio de Morte Antecessoris summonita fuit inter eos in prefata curia, scilicet: quod predictus abbas recognovit predictis Ailwardo et Hawisse predictas tres virgatas terre cum pertinenciis in Tudinton' esse ius eorum et hereditatem; tenendas de se et de successoribus suis sibi et heredibus suis in perpetuum, per liberum servicium j marce argenti per annum pro omni servicio, salvo forinseco servicio. Et pro hoc fine et concordia et recognicione predictus Ailward et uxor eius Hawissa dederunt predicto abbati xx solidos esterlingorum. Middelsex'

MS: PRO, C.P.25(1), 146/1, no. 11.

Pd: Fines 9 Ric. I, 68, no. 97.

Cal: Fines Lond & Mddx, I, no. 9, p. 1.

Note: cf. Harvey, WA, 354.

317. Confirmation by Abbot William to the convent of the church of Benfleet with the manor of Benfleet, and appurtenant Fanton and Paglesham (Essex). Chapter, Westminster [? 1191 × 1200]

Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens carta pervenerit, eternam in Domino salutem. Justis petentium desideriis facilem nos convenit inpertiri consensum et vota que a rationis tramite non discrepant: effectu sunt prosequente complenda. Noverit itaque universitas vestra nos, divine pietatis intuitu et pro salute anime mee et patris et matris mee, concessisse et confirmasse sine ullo retinemento conventui nostro ecclesiam de Benflet cum ipso manerio et cum omnibus terris et maneriis sibi adiacentibus, scilicet Fanton' et Pakelesham, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, que scilicet maneria ab antiquis temporibus pia largitione antecessorum meorum venerabilium abbatum Westmonasterii ad officium pitanciarie semper pertinuisse dinoscuntur, quatinus eadem maneria libere, quiete et honorifice in propria habeant dispositione, et in usus suos et utilitates quicquid ex eis poterit provenire, ita quod per eos fiat omne ordinamentum predictorum maneriorum, inponendis autem vel removendis pitanciariis, utar consilio conventus, prout expedierit. Contestor igitur omnes successores meos abbates ne ipsi faciant aut fieri sinant ullam infractionem huius mee concessionis immo augeant et confirment, et stabiliant. Hanc autem concessionem promta voluntate feci in capitulo nostro et sigillo proprio roboratam super ipsum altare Beati Petri apostolorum principis devotus obtuli ex auctoritate Dei et Beati Petri et ex potestate michi tradita, terribiliter eos anathematizans quicumque hanc concessionem nostram ausu temerario infringere seu diminuere aut irritam facere presumpserint. Hoc autem factum est toto conventu Westmonasterii assistente et sententiam latam confirmante et pro beneficio isto nobis omnimodas gratias referente.

MS: WAD, ff. 602v–603.

Rubric: Carta Domini Willelmi abbatis Westmonasterii de ecclesia de Benflete cum manerio et terris et omnibus aliis rebus sibi adjace[n]tibus.

Date: The attribution of this charter to William Postard is likely, because Benfleet was appropriated 1189 × 1198 (Harvey, WA, 405).

Note: See 214–15, 299, 339.

318. Agreement between Abbots Warin of St Albans and William of Westminster about the view of frankpledge in Aldenham (Herts.) and the suit of the hundred court. [6 June × 17 July 1194]

Sciant tam presentes quam futuri hanc esse formam firme pacis inter Abbatem Warinum de Sancto Albano et Abbatem Willelmum de Westmonasterio de controversia que fuit inter illos de visu francplegiorum de Aldenham et de secta hundredi, videlicet: quod Abbas Sancti Albani Warinus premissa summonicione congrua mittet quem voluerit de bailivis suis ad videndum francplegium in Aldenham, ita quod suscepto ab eodem bailivo abbatis Sancti Albani iuramento hominum de Aldenham et audito vero dicto de his unde requisiti fuerint, ipse bailivus abbatis Sancti Albani vadia ab his qui in misericordia fuerint recipiet, et ipsa vadia et omnes forisfacture que illa die de visu francplegiorum pervenient, remanebunt quieta abbati Westmonasterii in manu bailivi sui. Per sic quod singulis annis in die visus francplegiorum bailivus abbatis Sancti Albani recipiet per manum bailivi abbatis Westmonasterii duos bisancios vel quatuor solidos sterlingorum sive fuerint forisfacture sive non fuerint, nec poterit amplius exigi ab abbate Westmonasterii vel bailivo suo vel hominibus de Aldenham pro visu francplegiorum, salva secta hundredo sicut antiquitus fieri solebat et salvis placitis corone. Et ut hec forma pacis stabilis sit et firma, sigillorum munimine utriusque partis roboratur. His testibus: Willelmo de Sisavern', senescallo Sancti Albani; Laurentio de Theobrug'; Gaufrido de Childew'; Waltero Blancfrunt'; Rollando Blancfront; Nicholao dispensatore; Roberto de Lenn'; Aedwardo preposito Westmonasterii; Thoma pincerna; Alano filio Aedwardi; Ada de Winton'; Joseph servienti; Jacobo ostiario; Roberto marescallo.

MSS: (1) WAM 4502.

17.7 × 16 cm; t.u. 1.6 cm. Cirographum on top edge. Tag but no seal.

Endorsed: (a) Cirographum inter abbatem Westmonasterii et abbatem Sancti Albani de Aldenam (12C). (b) de visu franciplegii et secta hundredi (13C). (c) vij (16C).

(2) WAD, f. 186v–187.

Date: Rolls K.C. 1194–95, 7, 28.

319. Grant by Abbot William to Geoffrey Picot and his heirs of two virgates of assart between his houses and the abbot's wood at Aldenham (Herts.). [1191 × 1200]

Noverint omnes qui litteras istas viderint vel audierint quod ego Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et eiusdem loci conventus concessimus et hac presenti carta nostra confirmavimus Galfrido Picot et heredibus suis duas virgatas terre de essartis que jacent inter domos suas et nemus nostrum in villa de Aldenham jure hereditario, de nobis tenendas pro una marca argenti in firma de Aldenham, singulis annis reddenda pro omni servicio: ad Pascham, scilicet, sex solidos et octo denarios, et ad Festum Sancti Michaelis totidem. Volumus itaque et precipimus quatinus prefatus Galfridus et heredes sui predictas virgatas terre de nobis libere et honorifice per prenominatum servicium teneant, ut autem hec nostra concessio stabilis et rata permaneat, eam sigilli nostri appositione communivimus. Hiis testibus: Stephano camerario; Arnaldo Herlave; Theobaldo senescallo; Laurentio de scaccario; Thoma pincerna; Rogero de Merden; Ada camerario; Albino clerico; Ricardo janitore; Simone Calvo, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 187.

Rubric: Cirographum Galfridi Picot de duabus virgatis terre in Aldenham.

Date: The witnesses attest charters of William Postard's abbacy.

Note: See Harvey, WA, 345.

320. Final concord between Abbot William and the convent of Westminster, and Hugh of Buckland, concerning the advowson of Datchworth (Herts.). The abbot and the convent quitclaimed this to Hugh, with the proviso that before the clerk whom he presented was instituted to the church or gained admission, he would swear in the chapter at Westminster to pay the abbot and convent and their successors £1 yearly at Michaelmas when he was instituted. Curia Regis, Westminster 4 Dec. 1192.

Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia domini regis apud Westmonasterium die Veneris proxima post Festum Sancti Andree anno regni Regis Ricardi quarto, coram Domino Waltero Rothomagensi archiepiscopo, et Rogero filio Reinfridi, et Roberto de Wittefeld', et Osberto filio Hervei, et Symone de Patteshill', et Hugone de Chaucumbe', et Magistro Thoma de Husseburn', justiciariis domini regis, et aliis fidelibus domini regis ibi tunc presentibus, inter Willelmum abbatem et conventum de Westmonasterio, et Hugonem de Bocland' de advocatione ecclesie de Dachewrth', unde placitum fuit inter eos in curia domini regis per breve recognicionis, scilicet: quod predicti abbas et conventus quietam clamaverunt in perpetuum de se et de successoribus suis prefato Hugoni et heredibus suis prefatam advocationem ecclesie de Dachewrth', per sic: quod clericus quem Hugo vel heredes sui presentabunt ad prefatam ecclesiam antequam institutionem vel ingressum habuerit in prefatam ecclesiam de Dachewrth' jurabit in capitulo de Westmonasterio quod solvet annuatim prefatis abbati et conventui et eorum successoribus viginti solidos sterlingorum ad Festum Sancti Michaelis, cum institutus fuerit. Hec autem concordia facta fuit inter predictos abbatem et conventum et Hugonem asensu, et voluntate Willelmi de Bocland', qui fuit homo abbatis de Westmonasterio de villa de Dachewrth', qui fuit dominus prefati Hugonis de prefata villa de Dachewrth'.

MS: PRO, C.P. 25(1), 84/1, no. 1.

Pd: Fines H II & Ric. I, no. 14, pp. 13–14.

321. Grant by Abbot William to the infirmary of twenty-one marks (£14) from the churches of Oakham and Hambleton (Rutl.) in perpetuity, in return for the celebration of his anniversary. [1191 × 1200]

Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens carta pervenerit, eternam in Domino salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me divine pietatis intuitu, concessisse et pro salute mea et patris et matris et antecessorum meorum dedisse et hac presenti carta mea confirmasse dilectis in Christo fratribus et filiis nostris conventui, videlicet Westmonasterii, viginti et unam marcam argenti ad infirmariam eorum sustentandam singulis annis percipiendas et inperpetuum possidendas, de residuo ecclesiarum de Ocham et de Hameledone, per manum infirmarii qui pro tempore fuerit, ita ut in usus et necessitates fratrum infirmorum prout expedierit fideliter expendantur, et idem infirmarius anniversarium nostrum singulis annis in perpetuum decenter et honeste (fn. 9) procuret. Obtestor autem omnes successores meos abbates per tremendum Dei iudicium (fn. 10) ne ipsi ullam infractionem huic mee concessioni faciant vel fieri permittant. Si quis vero hanc nostram concessionem et donacionem (fn. 11) in magno vel in minimo infringere voluerit vel alios ad hoc quolibetmodo conduxerit indignationem Omnipotentis Dei nisi resipiscat incurrat; ut autem hec nostra concessio perpetuum (fn. 12) robur optineat, eam presentis scripti testimonio et sigilli nostri apposicione roboravimus. Hiis testibus: Tedbaldo senescallo nostro; Arnulfo fratre meo; Nicholao nepote meo; Robert Mauduyt; Willelmo de Rochingeham; Andrea et Albino de scaccario; Lodouico clerico; Rogero Enganet; Willelmo filio Roberti; Odone aurifabro, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 578.

Rubric: Carta Domini Willelmi abbatis Westmonasterii de eodem. Marginalia: Anniversarium Willelmi abbatis Postard (erased) Humez.

(2) F, f. 268r–v: attestations omitted.

Pd: Flete, 98–99, from F.

Date: The abbot is William Postard, not withstanding WAD marginalia, as shown by the attestations, notably Theobald of Feering as seneschal.

Note: Cf. Harvey, WA, 404; Mason, 'Rutland Churches', 164–5; 226, 336.

322. Grant by Abbot William to his knight William Picot of the manor of Doddington (Lincs.), except the advowson of the church, in fee and inheritance. [1191 × 1200]

Omnibus qui litteras istas viderint vel audierint, Willelmus abbas Westmonasterii et totus eiusdem loci conventus, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra nos unanimi assensu tocius capituli nostri concessisse et hac presenti carta nostra confirmasse Willelmo Picot militi nostro manerium nostrum de Dodinton' cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, excepta advocacione ecclesie quam in manu nostra plenarie retinemus; habendum et tenendum de nobis in feudo et hereditate, libere, quiete et honorifice; reddendo inde singulis annis camerario nostro quicumque fuerit duodecim libras ad quatuor terminos, videlicet: infra quindecim dies Natalis Domini sexaginta solidos; infra quindecim dies Pasche sexaginta solidos; infra quindecim dies Nativitatis Sancti Johannis sexaginta solidos; et infra quindecim dies Festi Sancti Michaelis sexaginta solidos. Si autem prefatus Willelmus vel heredes sui aliquo tempore ad defendendum predictum manerium consilio et auxilio nostro indiguerint, tale eis auxilium et manutenentum prestabimus quod cartas nostras et munimenta per aliquem ex nostris ad defensionem prefati manerii quando et ubi oportunum fuerit sumptibus et expensis illorum mittemus. Et ut hec nostra concessio stabilis et rata permaneat, eam presenti scripto et sigilli nostri apposicione roborare curavimus. Hiis testibus: Waltero de Heselton'; Fulcone de la Hule; Henrico de Meleford'; Gaufrido Pycot; Waltero Pycot; Teobaldo senescallo; Alexandro filio Radulfi; Simone de Buketon'; Ricardo janitore; Edwardo qui fuit prepositus; Alano filio eius; Thoma pincerna; Magistro Johanne Wincestr', et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 501.

Rubric: Scriptum indentatum abbatis et conventus Westmonasterii de manerio de Dodinton', excepta advocacione ecclesie, reddendo per annum xij libras.

Note: Cf. Harvey, WA, 348. In 1205, William Picot claimed the advowsons of Doddington and Thorp [on the Hill]. Abbot Ralph produced a charter, in form of a cirograph, of Abbot William and the convent, which granted the vill of Doddington and Thorp [on the Hill] to William Picot, at farm for £12 annually, excepting the advowsons. Ralph identified the appendant seal as that of his predecessor, but Picot challenged the authenticity of this document (Curia Regis Rolls, IV, 13, 45–6, 48).

323. Grant by Abbot William to the nuns of Godstow, of Bloxham church (Oxon.), and quitclaim of the whole right of the abbot and convent in the church, saving an annual pension of five marks (£3. 6s. 8d.) to the sacrist for altar lights. Westminster, 14 June 1197.

Universis Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, et totus eiusdem loci conventus, salutem in Domino. Ad universitatis vestre noticiam volumus pervenire nos a lite que vertebatur inter nos et sanctimoniales de Godestow super causa ecclesie de Blokesham, cuius cognicio Lincolniensis episcopo, et de Sancto Albano, et de Stratford abbatibus ab apostolica sede fuit delegata, per amicabilem compositionem recessisse sub hac forma: Nos attendentes religionem et honestatem sanctimonialium predicte domus, scilicet de Godestow, et earundem paupertati compatientes, unanimi assensu concessimus et dedimus in perpetuam elemosinam prefatis sanctimonialibus ecclesiam de Blokesham cum omnibus pertinenciis suis plenarie, integre, perpetuo; habendam et possidendam et totum ius quod in eadem ecclesia habuimus ecclesie Beati (fn. 13) Johannis Baptiste de Godestow et sanctimonialibus ibidem Deo servientibus quietum clamavimus, salva nobis pensione quinque marcarum quas de eadem ecclesia antiquitus percipere solebamus, quam pensionem prefate moniales annuatim reddere debent sacriste ecclesie nostre ad luminare altaris ad duos anni terminos, scilicet: infra octavas Festivitatis Omnium Sanctorum duas marcas et dimidiam, et infra octavas Pentecost' duas marcas et dimidiam. Facta est autem hec transactio inter nos et predictas sanctimoniales anno Verbi Incarnati millesimo centiesimo nonagesimo septimo, anno Regis Ricardi octavo, die tercia post Festum Sancti Barnabe apostoli apud Westmonasterium, mediante ex parte Domini Huberti, Cantuariensis archiepiscopi et apostolice sedis legati, viro venerabili Hugone, abbate Abendon', et hinc compositionis opem et operam adhibente. Et ut hec nostra concessio rata inposterum perseveret, nos eam presente carta et sigillorum nostrorum appositione roboravimus. Hiis testibus: Domino Hugone abbate Abendon'; et Nicholao et Ricardo monachis et capellanis eius; Waleranno capellano; Johanne de Kensinton et Henrico de Kensinton fratre eius; Martino clerico domine regine; Godefrido de la Dene; Willelmo de Haggehurste; Roberto de Clere; Magistro Earnulfo Postard; Magistro Simone de Bareswrd; Teodbaldo senescallo Westmonasterii; Radulfo de Septem Fontibus; et Henrico fratre eius, et multis aliis.

MS: Godstow Cartulary: PRO E164/20, f. xiiij.

Rubric: Carta de Bloxham facta abbati Westmonasterii.

Cal: Full translation in Middle English, The English Register of Godstow Nunnery near Oxford, ed. Andrew Clark, E.E.T.S., O.S. 142 (1911), 208–9, no. 308.

Note: Although Abbots Gervase (253) and Laurence (286) had held the advowson of Bloxham, evidently a valuable living, in view of the important clerics whom they appointed to the church, Abbot William was unable to uphold his title after H II's grant of this church to Godstow, followed by the verdict of the papal judges-delegate (225 and note). See R. A. R. Hartridge, A History of Vicarages in the Middle Ages, Cambridge Studies in Medieval Life and Thought (1930), 209.

324. Final concord in the king's court at Northampton between Abbot William, claimant, and William of Darnford, defendant, about right of hospitality at Deerhurst (Gloucs.), which the abbot quitclaimed to William. Curia Regis, Northampton, 22 Jan. 1192.

Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia (fn. 14) domini regis apud Norhamton, anno tercio regni Regis Ricardi, die Sancti Vincencii coram H[ugone] episcopo Coventrenci et Willelmo Marescallo et Galfrido filio Petri et Hugone Bardulf et Roberto de Wicef[eld] (fn. 15) et Othone filio Willelmi et Osberto filio Hervici et Ricardo del Pec', iusticiis domini regis, et aliis baronibus et fidelibus domini regis tunc ibidem presentibus, inter Willelmum abbatem de Westmonasterio, petentem, et Willelmum de Derneford, tenentem, de uno hospicio quod prefatus abbas clamavit habere consuetudine annuatim ad se et suos hospitandum in villa de Derherst'. Unde placitum fuit inter eos in curia domini regis, scilicet: quod prefatus abbas quietum clamavit prefatum hospicium prefato Willelmo et heredibus suis in perpetuum, et pro hoc fine et quieta clamantia et concordia prefatus Willelmus et heredes sui dabunt quolibet anno prefato abbati xl solidos ad duos terminos per annum: ad octabas Sancti Michaelis xx solidis, et ad octabas Pasche xx solidos.

MSS: (1) WAM 32671 (formerly 32653).

15.5 × 8.7 cm. Indented at top: CIROGRAPHUM.

Endorsed: (a) Finalis concordia in curia Regis Ricardi . . . (illegible)

Will de Derneford (13C). (b) Derherst (13C).

(2) WAD, f. 318v.

Note: cf. 271 and note.

325. Final concord made between Baldwin of Parham, plaintiff, and Abbot William concerning the advowson of Parham (Sussex), which Baldwin quitclaimed. Curia Regis, Westminster, 4 Nov. 1199.

Hec est finalis concordia facta in curia [domini regis] apud Westmonasterium, die Jovis proxima post Festum Omnium Sanctorum, anno regni Regis [Johannis primo,] coram G. filio Petri, Magistro Thoma de Husseburn', Willelmo de Warenn', R[icardo de Her'], Simone de Pateshill', Johanne de Gestlinges, justiciis, et aliis baronibus domini [regis tunc ibi] presentibus, inter Baldewinum de Perham, petentem, et Willelmum abbatem de Westmonasterio, [tenentem,] per Jacobum celerarium, positum loco predicti abbatis ad lucrandum vel perdendum, [de advo]cacione ecclesie de Perham, unde recognicionem summonitum fuit inter eos in prefata curia, scilicet: quod predictus Baldewinus remisit et quietum clamavit predicto abbati et successoribus suis totum ius et clamium quod habuit in advocacione predicte ecclesie de se et heredibus suis in perpetuum. Et pro hac fine et concordia et quieta clamancia predictus abbas dedit predicto Baldewino unam marcam argenti.

MSS: (1) WAM 4036 (Abbot's copy).

13.2 × 9.8 cm. Top and sides cut CIROGRAPHUM. Torn down centre: missing words supplied in square brackets from WAD and foot of fine. Small slits; seal missing.

Endorsed: (a) Quieta clamancia facta Willelmo de Perham (13C). (b) Perham deracionatione . . . (stained) (13C). (c) Infirmarius (15C).

(2) WAD, f. 578.

(3) PRO CP 25(1), 233/2, no. 14 (variant).

Note: WAM 4058 (copy on WAD, f. 582v) was evidently acquired by Westminster as a result of this agreement: pd.: The Acts of the Bishops of Chichester 1075–1207, ed. H. Mayr-Harting, Cant. and York Soc. 55 (1964), 114–5.

326. Grant by Abbot William to the convent of the vill of Parham (Sussex), except the advowson of the church. They are to pay £8 a year to the convent kitchener. If homage is rendered, the abbot will receive it in person, but any relief is to be rendered to the convent. Chapter, Westminster [(1191 ×) 1200]

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens carta pervenerit, Willelmus, Dei gratia abbas Westmonasterii, eternam in Domino salutem. Noverit universitas vestra nos, divine pietatis intuitu et pro salute anime mee et antecessorum et successorum meorum, concessisse et hac presenti carta mea confirmasse, sine ullo retinemento, placiti vel relevii, et sine omni exactione tailagii, vel cuiuscumque rei, conventui nostro Westmonasterii villam nostram de Perham cum terris sibi adiacentibus et cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, excepta solummodo advocatione ecclesie, cuius donationem in manu nostra retinemus, quatinus idem manerium libere, quiete et honorifice in propria habeant dispositione, et in usus suos et utilitates quicquid ex prefato manerio poterit provenire, ita quod per eos fiat omnis dispositio predicti manerii. Solvent igitur annuatim vice mea octo libras argenti coquinario conventus qui pro tempore fuerit quatuor statutis terminis, videlicet: infra octavas Natalis Domini quadraginta solidos; infra octavas Pasce xl solidos; infra octavas Sancti Johannis Baptiste quadraginta solidos; infra octavas Sancti Michaelis quadraginta solidos, absque omni infestatione mei vel successorum meorum. Quod si fortassis aliquo tempore contigerit de eodem tenemento homagium debere fieri, ego vel successores mei qui pro tempore fuerint, in persona nostra homagium recipiemus: relevium vero conventui nostro in usus suos quietius remanebit. Contestor igitur omnes successores meos abbates per tremendum Dei iudicium ne ipsi faciant, vel fieri permittant, ullam infractionem vel diminutionem huic nostre concessioni in maximo vel in minimo, immo augeant et confirment. Hanc autem concessionem promta voluntate feci in capitulo nostro Westmonasterii, et sigillo proprio roboratam super ipsum altare Beati Petri apostolorum principis devotus optuli, ex auctoritate Dei et Beati Petri et ex potestate michi tradita terribiliter anathematizans quicumque hanc nostram concessionem ausu temerario quolibet modo infringere seu diminuere vel irritam facere presumpserint. Hoc autem factum est toto conventu Westmonasterii assistente et sententiam latam confirmante et pro beneficio isto gratias omnimodas nobis referente.

MSS: (1) WAM 4064

7.7 × 24.3 cm; t.u. 1.9cm.

Seal: green; 7.8 × 5.2 cm; on obverse a standing abbot holding a book in left hand; Legend: SIG . . . (worn).

Counter seal: 4.3 × 3cm; bust of King Edward with sceptre in right hand: Legend: SANCTE EDWARD . . .

Endorsed: (a) Carta Willelmi abbatis Westmonasterii de villa de Perham conventui suo concessa (13C). (b) Perham (14C).

(2) WAD, f. 572.

Date: Prob. after 325.

Note: The more elaborate grant by Abbot Ralph of Parham to the convent (335) was made without prejudice to the existing endowment of the kitchen, viz. 8s. per day (sic), but included the right to present to the church. The £8 per annum assigned by Abbot William [Postard] is not mentioned in Abbot William d'Humez's definitive assignment to the kitchen (Documents illustrating the rule of Walter de Wenlok, abbot of Westminster, 1283–1307, ed. B. F. Harvey (Camden 4th ser., ii, 1965), 215–6). On Parham see also Harvey, WA, 359–60.

Footnotes

  • 1. MS: proximum.
  • 2. Sic in MS for deux. The scribe employs the French word for ell, and is seemingly counting in French.
  • 3. Error for Matre.
  • 4. Error for Briwer.
  • 5. In different hands and inks.
  • 6. ipsius.
  • 7. usque.
  • 8. xxxciij.
  • 9. honeste et decenter.
  • 10. judicium Dei.
  • 11. donacionem et concessionem.
  • 12. inperpetuum.
  • 13. MS: beate.
  • 14. MS: in curia in curia.
  • 15. Supplied from WAD.