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.