Liber albus I: Fols. 61-80

Fols. 61–80

ccxxxix. Charter of Reginald bishop of Bath rendering to William de Jatton and to his church of Jatton one virgate of the land of Jatton, late of Segar, upon the information of the said William and others that it ought to belong to the said church. Witnesses: Richard dean of Wells, *Thomas and Richard archdeacons, William and Jocelin chaplains, William de Cicestria, Ernald son of Theobald, Peter de Winter (sic).
R.I. f. 61: III. f. 389d., where the names from * are found.

ccxl. Submission by William provost of Cumba to the dean and chapter of Wells, subjecting his goods, his office of provost, and his church of Jatton to their distraint, they having become his sureties to the abbot and convent of St. Augustine Bristol, who had to farm the church of Jatton, a prebend of the church of Wells, from John Odolin' canon of that prebend, for 10 years dating from Michaelmas 1236, and let the same to farm to the said provost for the said term at a yearly rent of 45 marks by half yearly payments, the first payment to be made at Michaelmas 1237. Sealed by the said provost and by these witnesses: R. chancellor of Wells, H. archdeacon of Tanton, W. subdean of Wells, R. succentor of Wells, Luke de Membury canon of Wells. Done in the octave of St. Martin 1236.
R.I. f. 61.

ccxli, ccxlii, ccxliii: see above cxxxi (f. 38), cxxxii (ibid.), cxviii (f. 35d.); pp. 41, 42, 38.

ccxliiii. Gift by Robert de Meysi clerk to the church of St. Andrew Wells and Joscelin bishop of Bath and Glastonbury in almoin of the advowson of the church of Bertun, and the advowson of one mediety of the church of Nuniz belonging to the grantor. Witnesses: William de Hamme precentor of Wells, Peter the treasurer, Master John de Ikeford, Master Robert de Berkelay, Roger the chaplain, Master Adam canons of Wells, *Nicholas de la Mare.

Memorandum that on Tuesday after Trinity on St. Prime and St. Felician's day came Helias de la Mare with a companion to the house of the dean of Wells about the sixth hour, and claimed the advowson of one mediety of the church of Nuny, and upon seeing and hearing the above charter renounced all right therein, in presence of J. dean of Wells, William de Button archdeacon of Wells, Master Giles archdeacon of Berkshire, Henry treasurer of Wells, Hugh subdean of Wells, Master Robert de Marisco and other canons, clerks and laymen who were that day dining with the dean.
R.I. f. 61d.: III. f. 401, where the name * is found, but not the above memorandum.

ccxlv. Gift and undertaking upon oath by John prior of Worspring of the order of St. Victor and the college or convent, for the benefactions of William de Button II bishop of Bath and Wells, and for 210 marks paid by his executors to provide a yearly payment of 10 marks towards the obit of the said bishop and the maintenance of a chaplain for his soul, (wherewith they have redeemed a yearly rental of 10l. due to Sir John de Engayne knight and his heirs for the manor of Worle,) to pay the said 10 marks to the dean and chapter of Wells or their communar for the purposes aforesaid, namely within a week after Michaelmas 30s., on St. Andrew's day 5½ marks, and within the octave of Easter 30s. year by year for ever, binding all their goods for such payment, and submitting themselves to the ecclesiastical censure and distraint of the bishop and his official, the archdeacon of Wells or his official, without recourse to the law; also in their own house to perform pridie non. Dec. a solemn service in the choir with placebo, dirige, commendacio and mass, and to provide of their own goods a pittance of half a mark on that day in memory of the said bishop, to be divided between themselves and the poor, towards which the said executors have given 10 marks. This undertaking is made to the bishop etc., lest there be collusion on the part of the dean and chapter. Sealed in duplicate with the seals of the college, the bishop, and his officiality. Dated in their chapter of Worspring, iv non. July 1277.
R.I. f. 62: III. f. 175d.

Ordinance of Thomas de Button archdeacon and Roger de Cruk provost in the church of Wells, executors of William called the second, bishop of Bath and Wells, in pursuance of his will and for the health of his soul, concerning 10 marks yearly to be assigned by the prior and convent of Worspring of the order of St. Augustine to the dean and chapter of Wells or their communar, by assent of the dean and chapter, namely 4 marks yearly to a priest celebrating in the chapel of the blessed Virgin within (*by) the cloister of Wells, and giving daily attendance to the service of the dead, 2 marks upon his anniversary to be divided among the canons and vicars present at the service of the dead in the choir, 3½ marks that day in bread for the poor, and half a mark yearly to maintain two wax candles in the chapel of the blessed Virgin behind the high altar, at the discretion of the chancellor, subdean and succentor, or failing them of the dean, precentor and treasurer. Sealed by the executors and the said chapter (*chaplain). Dated October 1279.
R.I. f. 62: III. f. 132, where juxta is read for infra, and capellani for cap'li.

Quitclaim by Edward dean of St. Andrew Wells and the chapter, for themselves and their successors, of William Gyan with all his issue and his chattels from all neifty and servile condition. Dated in the chapter of Wells, v kal. August 1264.
R.I. f. 62d.: repeated f. 101.

Accord between Edward dean of Wells and the chapter on the the one part and Robert Gyan son and heir of William Gyan on the other part, in a dispute touching the hosbote and heybote contained in his charter, namely the dean and chapter grant the said Robert six loads of brushwood yearly in Stathmore to be had by him and his heirs between the Exaltation of Holy Cross and Michaelmas by view of the bailiff of Northcory, and for this grant the said Robert quitclaims for himself and his heirs his hosbote and heybote. Witnesses: Geoffrey de la Slo, Thomas de Merre (*Mere), Walter le Frye, Richard le Frye (omitted*), Hugh de la Hele, Richard de Fonte.
R.I. f. 62d.: III. f. 30, where the variations marked* occur.

Gift by Edward dean of St. Andrew Wells and the chapter to William Gyan their free man of a messuage and three fardels of land in Northcory in the parish of Stokes formerly of Walter Gyan, to hold to William and his heirs of them and their successors at a yearly rent of 12s. 8d. for all service, saving suit of their hundred of Northcory with the other free men of the hundred, and the wardship and marriage of the heir, and if the heirs be of age they shall give 12s. 8d. for their relief: also it shall be lawful for the dean and chapter to enclose moors and pastures in the manor, saving to William and his heirs sufficient common of pasture, hosbote and heybote by the view of their serjeant. Warranty clause. Dated in the chapter of Wells, kal. August 1264.
R.I. f. 62d.: III. f. 30d.

Gift by Elias master of the hospital of St. John Bristol and the brethren to the dean and chapter of Wells of a rent of 30s. for ever, payable quarterly in the great church of Wells to the communar, to be delivered to a vicar thereof who shall be assigned by the subdean to celebrate daily at the altar of St. Mary Magdalen for the soul of John de Axebrugg' subdean of Wells, etc., binding themselves and their successors and all their goods for such payment, and submitting them to the bishop of Bath and Wells or his official: and for this the said John de Axebrugg' has given 40 marks to buy a rent and lands at Bristol, which they have done. Witnesses: Roger de Bercham mayor of Bristol, John de Berwik, Reginald Golde provosts of Bristol, John Gilbert, William de Berewik, Geoffrey le Gape.
R.I. f. 63: III. f. 125.

ccxlivi. Charter of J. dean of Wells and the chapter, reciting that Roger bishop of Bath and Wells claimed the sequestration of all vacant churches in his bishopric, but abandoned his claim on production of instruments shewing that his predecessors, by consent of their archdeacons, granted the same to the dean and chapter, who had been in undisputed possession 60 years and more; and granting the bishop for life a portion therein, namely two thirds, saving to the archdeacons one third, without prejudice to their rights. Witnesses: Master G. de Acford the bishop's clerk. W. de Purl', W. de Glovernia chaplains, Gilbert and John his clerks. Dated Wells in chapter, ix kal. June 1246.
R.I. f. 64.

Memorandum that in 1247, on Sunday the Purification, Master H. Tesson the precentor, Master W. de Lincoln chancellor, H. de Lond'treasurer, H. de Rom' subdean, N. de Seleburne succentor, Matthew archdeacon of Buckingham, Master R. de Marisco, Master Gilbert de Byham, Master J. de Tanton, Master A. Gessich, W. provost of Cumba, J. de Rak', Philip de Sideham, W. de Cusintion, W. de Purl', J. de Hereford, J. de Teynton, R. de Haldewrth, El[ias] de Badest', H. de Langelegh, J. de Button, Alexander de Banfeld, J. de Sutton, Luke de Membiry, J. Odelin, R. de Marisco, J. de Derham and Richard de Dynam canons of Wells, being met in chapter to deal especially with the election to be celebrated at Bath on the Tuesday following, dealt also with 2½ acres of demesne land which Walter the chamberlain, while farmer of the prebend of Bidesham, aliened to Roger Beneseff' villein, whereon he erected his buildings, and when H. treasurer of Wells and after him H. the subdean became farmers, the said Roger had been troubled touching the land because withdrawn from the demesne wherefore at his instance they granted that he and his should hold the same thenceforth at a yearly rent of 12d. to St. Andrew and the farmer for the time being; nevertheless they should not be free men by means of this grant, but perform their rents and services as before, as the other tenants of the prebend.
R.I. f. 64.

Memorandum that on Monday the morrow of Trinity 1243, at a special chapter for the election, a sentence of excommunication was passed on all those of the chapter who should reveal the secrets of the chapter, all who should hinder their business, and all who should give counsel, aid or favour to their adversaries, namely the monks of Bath.
R.I. f. 64d.

Memorandum that on St. Peter and St. Paul's day 1243, in the church of Wells, sentence of excommunication was passed upon all who should infeinge the liberties or dignities of the church of Wells, excepting the king, the queen, their children, Earl Richard and the king's principal council: also upon all who disturb their right in the church of Cungresbiry by word or deed, except as above.
R.I. f. 64d.

Memorandum that on Sunday before St. John Baptist, William de Bruges with two fellow vicars of Wells was sent by the chapter to Brene, to appeal for the chapter in the form following:—

(A space follows.)
R.I. f. 64d.

On Wednesday after the Translation of St. Thomas the Martyr, the chapter of Wells by H. their subdean at Axebrugg' before the archdeacon of Wells in full chapter, being there met for the purpose, appealed that the archdeacon should inquire whether the church of Cungresbury was vacant or no. First therefore the subdean renewed the appeals lodged by W. de Bruges and his fellows before the archdeacon's official at Brene, and assigned other causes: appealing to the papal see that the archdeacon or his official should not admit Sir Peter Sarac[enus] nor any other to the church of Cungresbiry for that they had the best right; that neither Sir Peter Sarac[enus] nor any other be admitted or instituted to the said church, nor the custody committed to any, for that it is not vacant but in their possession; that the archdeacon, for that he is sworn of their chapter, should not admit Sir Peter Sarac[enus] nor any person thereto contrary to the rights and liberties of the church of Wells; that neither the archdeacon nor anyone in his name should presume to do aught to their prejudice touching the same without debating their right and possession thereof; protesting that they have other causes to shew.
R.I. f. 64d.

Memorandum that on Thursday after the Translation of [St. Thomas the Martyr] 1243 in the chapter, after treating of the burial of William de Chyu canon of Wells, a statute was made that thenceforth canons resident in the church of Wells should be buried in the cloister in order according to their dignity, the greater before the less (unless in their lifetime they should elect to be buried elsewhere within the church or without,) beginning at the church door towards the south as near as might be, and extending straight to the corner of the cloister, and so again: no layman or vicar should be buried among them, but vicars inthe churchyard towards the east behind the chapel of St. Mary, and elsewhere in the churchyard laymen in the churchyard towards the west, beginning by the small elms planted there by the place where the guest chamber (hastillaria) used to be, and extending towards the west so that none should henceforth be buried before the church door westward: the great parsons of the church should be buried within the church if they or their friends would.
R.I. f. 64d.

Memorandum that on Sunday the morrow of St. James 1243 it was decreed in chapter that thenceforth no vicar should dwell alone, but two at least in one house, any contravening this statute after Michaelmas next should be suspended from entering the choir and his commons withdrawn until he should satisfy the chapter: those who were solitary and others, if convicted of incontinence, to incur the same penalty; and those who had concubines and children by them were forbidden to allow the mothers to come to them in a suspect place on pretence of visiting the children, or to be at feasts where the said women were present, or to converse with them save in public before witnesses not suspect.
R.I. f. 64d.

Proceedings in the chapter of Wells on Wednesday after St. James 1243, before the dean assisted by the chancellor, treasurer, the archdeacons of Wells and Tanton, subdean, succentor, etc.: it was decreed that John de Suttun should make no vicar inthe church of Wells by reason of the prebend he held, so long as he should abide in town, and that thereby he should not unless he chose be bound to residence as laid down in the constitution so far as it affects a simple canon, and might make a vicar or not as he would: this decree not by procurement or request of the said John de Sutton.

The same day John de Cumpt[on] who was vicar of John de Sutton canon of Wells resigned his vicarage to the dean in chapter.
R.I. f. 65

Memorandum that on the vigil of St. Peter ad vincula 1244, Geoffrey de Toteneis, being accused of adultery with the wife of William le Frikere before the chapter, purged himself of that charge, and had compurgators, but they were not required to swear.
R.I. f. 65.

Memorandum that on the day of St. Peter ad vincula 1244, John de Cerde, being accused of adultery with Avice wife of David the tanner, whose husband had gone to the Holy Land, appeared in chapter before W. archdeacon of Wells, H. the treasurer, H. the subdean, N. the succentor, Luke de Membiry, Richard de Dinham, Joscelin the chaplain, John Odelin', and made a confession, and submitted to the loss of his vicarage should any scandal arise from this or from a subsequent fault. Copy of letters patent containing this submission, dated Thursday before St. Lawrence 1244.
R.I. f. 65.

Memorandum that on the day of St. Peter ad vincula 1244 Sir W. de Kaynesham was charged with raising an oratory in his house at Wells without the assent of the chapter, to the prejudice of their church, and confessed before W. archdeacon of Wells, N. the succentor, H. the subdean, J. de Button, etc., and was inhibited.
R.I. f. 65.

Memorandum that before the dean, Henry the treasurer, W. de Sancto Quint[ino] archdeacon of Tanton, N. the succentor, J. de Rak' and John de Sutton, on Wednesday after the Assumption 1248, and after on Friday following, before the dean, the treasurer, H. the subdean, the succentor, J. de Rak' and J. de Hereford, William de Hoyland was charged with incontinence with the daughter of Josce, in the week of Pentecost and on the night of St. John Baptist, having been seen carrying his shoes in his hands next morning, and after in the wood of Baggelegh in Wedmoreland, also with violence to the said Josce, and confessed; and because there was a public scandal, it was decreed by the dean and chapter that he should take his place with the boys on their bench (stare cum pueris in for[ma] sua) from the said Friday to the Nativity of St. Mary next, and make letters patent submitting to loss of his vicarage in case the offence be repeated.
R.I. f. 65.

Mandate by the dean and chapter of Wells to all chaplains subject to their jurisdiction, whereas some persons have disturbed the liberties of their church especially their prebend of Lutton, to pronounce a general sentence of excommunication, according to the form of a general council held at Oxford, upon all who infringe the liberties of the church, and to signify their names to the chapter. Dated Wells, the day of St. Michael in Monte Tumba 1247.
R.I. f. 65.

Memorandum that J. Sarracenus dean of Wells and the chapter granted R. de Berton the chapter's man to Sir Walter de Cusinton all the days of the said Walter.
R.I. f. 65d.

Memorandum that on Ascension Day after vespers came two messengers from the prior and convent of Christ Church Canterbury, and entering the chapter produced letters patent, the chapter first protesting that they received the same without prejudice, and appealing to the papal see against being compelled to carry out any mandate of the said monks, and against any sentence passed upon them for disobedience: present in chapter, the chancellor, treasurer, W. archdeacon of Thanton, H. called subdean, Luke de Membiry, Walter de Cusinton, Richard de Dinam, Joscelin the chaplain, John Odelin' canons, William de Lechelade and Luke vicars.
R.I. f. 65d.

Memorandum that on Saturday after the Purification came to Salisbury H. called subdean of Wells and H. de Atrio Dei, and about the third hour appealed against the precentor's election, not by reason of the person elect, but of the election made to the prejudice of their church, renewing the appeal lodged at Bath the Friday before. Present of the chapter of Salisbury, R. the dean, H. the treasurer, E. [Giles] de Brideport archdeacon of Berkshire, Roger the succentor, Master H. de Bissopeston, R. de Ebor' and Thomas de Ebeburn, W. de Ven, before whom H. the subdean read copies of his instruments; and the precentor, being questioned as to what he would do touching his assent to the said election, answered that if he were canonically elected, as letters directed to him on behalf of the prior and convent of Bath testified, he would give his assent to his election, otherwise not: the said H. and H. thanked him for the answer, and renewed their appeal.
R.I. f. 65d.

Memorandum that on Wednesday in the week of Pentecost 1243 appeared Master Lawrence proctor of the abbot of Bec, and after argument with the chapter touching contributions for which the said abbot was bound, and for nonpayment of which he was suspended, at the said proctor's request the charter was read whereby the abbot was bound to support the charges of the church of Wells as the other canons, and a copy made for him of certain articles therein, and a day was set about St. John Baptist's day for his lord's will to be made known to the chapter thereupon, or for the money to be paid on the morrow thereof in London to the proctor of the chapter, and the suspension to stand, provided no further proceedings be taken before that day.
R.I. f. 65d.

Memorandum that on Saturday before St. Peter and St. Paul were read in the chapter of Wells letters patent of the prior of Hokeburne, general proctor of the abbot of Bec in England, which are in the treasury, asking for a truce in order to consult the abbot touching the demand for contributions levied in the church of Wells, and a day was set to content the demands of the chapter by the feast of St. Peter ad vincula, otherwise he would be excommunicated.
R.I. f. 65d.

Memorandum that should an assise of last presentation touching the church of Cungresbyri be summoned by the king for that King Richard presented thereto, the answer on behalf of the chapter shall be that the king presented Peter Sarac[enus] by reason of the vacancy of the see, as the king's letters of presentation shew; but if judgment be given against the chapter on that point, it should be answered that King John and his son conferred upon bishop Joscelin and his successors the manor of Cungresbiry and the advowson of the church, as their charters shew, whereby the king is held to warranty; and the bishop conferred the said church upon the chapter of Wells for the increase of their common fund, as his charter shews, and is held to warranty; but when there is no bishop to warrant, the question should be raised whether they ought to answer to the assize until they have a bishop.
R.I. f. 65d.

Memorandum that on the morrow of St. Simon and St. Jude 1243, by assent of the king in whose hand was the see of Bath, and by letters patent of Sir R. Passelewe guardian thereof the chapter of Wells (by canons Walter de Cosintone and John de Derham) had seisin of the church of Congrebiry as parson thereof, and were inducted by Geoffrey de Were dean of that place, by authority of W. de Button archdeacon of Wells; and after, on Tuesday after All Saints, they sent a second time W. archdeacon of Wells and H. the subdean, their proctor appointed to deliver the said church to farm to P. Sarac[enus], who did so in presence of the whole parish and of strangers, delivering to the said P. the ornaments and books of the church, and making lists thereof, one to remain with him, the other with the chapter: on the morrow the subdean went with the said P. to the chapel belonging to the church of Congrebiry, and there delivered the books and ornaments in accordance with the list.
R.I. f. 65d.: III. f. 304.

Inspeximus and confirmation by John dean of Wells and the chapter, at the request of Roger bishop of Bath and Wells, of a grant made by the said bishop to Thomas de Garsilade, Edith his wife and the heirs of their bodies, of all the land late of Richard de Garsilade in his manor of Wells, namely one fardel and a half of land at Garsilade with a small piece of moor called la Sterte to be enclosed, at a rent of 9s. a year payable quarterly, the reversion to the bishop and his successors, with warranty; witnessed by Henry treasurer of Wells, Joscelin the chaplain, John de Derham canons of Wells, William Buche, Hubert de Norfok, Stephen the chamberlain, John son of Annora, William de Leycestria citizens of Wells, William de La Wrth Chamberlain.
R.I. f. 66.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the chapter of Wells, dated Wells in the chapter, xvi kal. May 1246, of a grant made by Roger bishop of Bath and Wells to William de Aure and Mabel his wife of all the land formerly of Richard son of Robert Franceys in his manor of Ceddre, also a mill with a messuage and curtilage in the said manor formerly of Rebert le Franceys, to hold to them and the heirs of the body of William of the bishop and his successor at a yearly rent of 12s. 8d. payable quarterly for all service, saving to Dame Agatha de Corscumbe and her heris one mark which she receives yearly of the said mill; witnessed by Robert Fitz Payn, Thomas de Altavilla, Robert Malherbe, Michael de Cheldrinton the bishop's steward, Geoffrey Fassal, Ralph de bagepuz, Robert de la Sale, William de Clafford, William de camera, Ph[ilip] de Cnoll, and Gilbert de Sar' the bishop's clerk.
R.I. f. 66.

[Inspeximus and confirmation by the chapter of Wells, dated Wells in chapter, the morrow ot St. Matthew 1246, of a grant made by Hugh de Romenal subdean of 'Wells and rector of Woky to John le Poth of Exeter clerk and Juliana de Woky of his wife 2 acres of land to dwell in of the demesne of the church of Woky, which Regisland bishop of Bath conferred upon the same as an endowment at the dedication thereof, lying between the houses of Walter le Dukon one side and land of the same on the other, to hold to them and the heirs of their bodies of grantor and his successors at a yearly rent of 2s. payable quarterly, the reversion to grantor and his successors as the right of the said church; witnessed by Henry de London treasurer of Wells, William provost of Cumba. Nicholas de Seleburne succentor of Wells, Luke de Membiry, Joscelin the chaplain, Richard de Dynam and John de Sutton canons of Wells; and dated Wells, the vigil of St. Matthew 1246.]
R.I. f. 66d. The whole struck out.

Grant by John dean of Wells and the chapter of 20s. yearly of the chapel of Stokes belonging to their church of Northcury, payable quarterly by their bailiff of Northcury, in regard of the devotion of Sir Richard Tregoz vicar of Northcury, towards a daily mass in honour of the Virgin Mary founded by him in her chapel in the churchyard of Northcury, the chaplain to be presented by the said vicar, but his successors by the dean and chapter, provided that the residue of his maintenance be found elsewhere, and the money revert to them in default of such celebration. Dated Wells, the vigil of the Epiphany 1246.
R.I. f. 66d.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the chapter of Wells, dated Wells, xiii kal. March 1246, of a grant made by Roger bishop of Bath and Wells to William de Wrangheye of all the land he holds of the bishop in his manor of Welynton, namely one cultura called Middelland with buildings, curtilages, gardens and meadows therein contained, one cultura called Langeland, one cultura called Brecheland, and one cultura called Bukewell with wood and appurtenances as they lie enclosed by dykes, also one meadow called Westmed, to hold to the said William and the heirs of his body of the bishop and his successors at a yearly rent of 20s. payable quarterly for all service, saving the fencing of his part at Westbury which the said William used to do; also licence to enclose the said culturas, and to have fencing in the bishop's wood of Fendes- cumb, with the same liberties in the bishop's woods and mills at Welynton as other free tenants by charter there; for which William has given for gersum 10 marks; witnessed by Master Nicholas Tessun archdeacon of Bath, Master Robert de Tefford, Master Richard de Haldeswrth, Sir Gerbert de Welynton, Sir Randolph de Flury knights, Stephen de Welynton, William de la Ford, William Thursloc, and John de Bennecumb; and dated Woky, by Master Richard de Haldesworth, xiv kal. Feb. 3 bishop Roger.
R.I. f. 67.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the chapter of Wells, dated Wells, vi id. April 1247, of a grant made by Roger bishop of Bath and Wells to William de Aure his servant of 8 acres of arable land outside the bishop's borough of Axebrug called Seyldeserd, and 18d. rent (whereof John de Fonte used to pay yearly 6d., John Oldewey 6d., and Richard the dyer 6d. of the said tenement,) to hold for life at a yearly rent of 1lb. of cumin at Michaelmas; witnessed by Sir Robert Fitz Payn, Sir Th[omas] de Alta Villa, Sir Robert Malerbe knights, Michael de Chelrinton the bishop's steward, Geoffrey Vassal, Ralph de Bagepuz, Robert de la Sale, William de Claford, William de camera, Philip de Cnoll, Gilbert de Sar' the bishop's clerk. (In margin: 'Nota pro prepositura'.)
R.I. f. 67d.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the dean and chapter, dated Wells in chapter, September 1247, of a grant made by Roger bishop of Bath and Wells to Sir William provost of Cumba and rector of Cerda of his mill in Cerda, which he caused to be erected to the damage of the free tenement and mills of the said William, which he has by grant of bishop Jocelin, as found by inquisition, to hold to the said William and the rectors his successors of the bishop and his successors, with suit of the bishop's men, burgesses and others of the manor without reservation, at a yearly rent of half a mark payable quarterly, with warranty; witnessed by Hugh de Rumunal subdean of Wells, John de Tanton, Adam de Gissych the bishop's official, John de Hereford, Robert de Marisco, Walter de Purlegh, Elyas de Baddeston canons of Wells, Henry de Cerne the bishop's steward, Randolph de Cerne; and dated Chyu, by Master Richard de Aldeswrth, 1247.
R.I. f. 67d.

[Memorandum that kal. March 1247 two instruments of that date bearing their common seal were delivered by J. dean of Wells and the chapter to the archdeacon of Wells, Master J. Odel[ine] and Ph[ilip] de Sideham canons as proctors to contract a loan of 100 marks in the court of Rome.]

The said two instruments were given up to the chapter on the vigil of St. Lucy 1249, also one of 59 marks in the name of J. de Button, concerning which he gave no bond to the chapter, and the bond he made while archdeacon was given up to him.

(In margin.) [Also a third pair concerning 100 marks renewed on the morrow of Palm Sunday, whereby J. dean of Wells and the chapter appointed W. de Button archdeacon of Wells their proctor to contract a loan with any merchant, dated kal. March 1247.]

Memorandum that this pair remained with the bishop when he gave up others, and touching these he made a bond to the chapter: and he gave up this on the day of St. Peter ad cathedram 12...to J. Button and N. de Cranford, in presence of the treasurer, J. le Fort, ...... the subdean, and the bishop's bond was given up by J. and N.
R.I. f. 68. The portions in [] are cancelled.

Memorandum that letters patent dated in chapter, St. Cuthbert's day 1247, were issued by the chapter of Wells, addressed to Sir Thomas Long of Bristol and Robert la Ware clerk, directing them to be answerable to Robert de Marisco concerning the farm of his church of Eston, the said Robert having freed them from a debt wherein they were bound for him.
R.I. f. 68.

Inspeximus and assent by the chapter of Wells, dated Wells in chapter, Saturday after St. Matthias Ap. 1247, to a quitclaim made by John Sarr[acenus] the pope's subdeacon and chaplain and dean of Wells to Peter de Roka of Geoffrey Peuwyne with all that went with him from all neifty and servitude for 5s.; dated Saturday before St.Simon and St. Jude 1247, and witnessed by Nicholas de Cuntevill, Robert de Cuntevill, Matthew de Banton, Henry de Cuntevill, Ralph the dean's vicar, Geoffrey de Merk chaplain, William the chaplain.

Note of a similar quitclaim of Richard Billing.
R.I. f. 68d.

[Bond of Master W. de Button archdeacon of Wells to the dean and chapter, who have given him three instruments touching a loan of 100 marks to be contracted towards their business in the court of Rome by Master J. Odel[ine] and Philip de Sideham canons their proctors, to return the said instruments and indemnify the church for any loss, dated kal. March 1247.

[Memorandum that though three pairs of letters are mentioned above, there were only two, the third being in the name of the archdeacon of Wells.]

The above cancelled: marginal note that the loan is paid.
R.I. f. 68d.

Proxy to act in the court of Rome, granted by the dean and chapter of Wells to Reynon the clerk, dated Wells, xiii kal. April 1247.
R.I. f. 68d.

Memorandum that on St. Benedict's day were delivered to Adam clerk of the archdeacon of Wells, to be conveyed to the archdeacon. a proxy for Reynon, two pairs of letters for the pope, three pairs touching a loan of 100 marks to be contracted.

Memorandum that on Monday before Easter 1248 J. de Button delivered to the archdeacon of Wells a pair of letters of 100 marks touching a loan to be contracted, and letters of commission touching provision of a pastor for the churches.
R.I. f. 69.

Inspeximus and assent, dated Wells xvi kal. May 1248, by the chapter of Wells, to the grant made by Master William de Lincoln chancellor of Wells to Robert son of William de Sutsexia for his service of a messuage with curtilage of the land of the church of Kyngesbiry late held by Nicholas Dyk in the town of Kynesbiry, half an acre of arable land on the north of that town between land of the bishop of Bath and Wells on the north and of John Loue on the south, and half an acre of meadow at the head of the said half acre in a moor called Bynorthton, to hold to the said Robert and the heirs of his body of grantor and his successors at a yearly rent of 2s.; witnessed by Henry Tessun precentor of Wells, Hugh de Romenal subdean, Nicholas de Seleburn succentor, Walter de Purl', John de Sutton canons; and dated Wells xvii kal. May 1248.
R.I. f. 69.

[Memorandum that on the day of St. John ante Portam Latinam 1248 issued letters from J. dean of Wells and the chapter appointing Sir John de Button canon of Wells their proctor to contract a loan of 59 marks with any merchant; dated Wells, kal. May 1248.]
R.I. f. 69. (Cancelled.)

Receipt given by Robert de Columbariis knight to the dean and chapter of Wells (by Roger de Wynesham their communar) for 10 marks for a fine between them upon a writ of right touching the manor of Hach. Done at Wells, Saturday after St. James Ap. 1247, in presence of H. subdean of Wells, G. de la Bretun (de Labstun) knight, Gilbert Grazeneuld, Alexander de London, Richard de Shorham.
R.I. f. 69: III. f. 220d.

Inspeximus and assent, dated the vigil of St. James 1251, by the dean and chapter of Wells, to a grant made by W. bishop of Bath and Wells to Philip de Butt[on] of the moiety of a burgage in Wells next the messuage of John de Wynth' on the north, and a stall (stallum) in the high street of the town opposite that of Adam Canun and Richard London to the east, to hold of the bishop and his successors at a yearly rent of 8d. by quarterly payments; dated St. Andrew's Castle extra Lugdunum, vi kal. September 3 bishop W.
R.I. f. 69. F

Agreement, dated Michaelmas 1248, between John Sarracenus dean of Wells and the chapter and Walter de Purlegh canon of the same church, demising the church of Ceddre with spiritualities and temporalities to the said Walter to farm for five years for 50 marks yearly payable to the communar at Wells at Trinity and the Beheading of St. John, but the first year's rent on St. Andrew's day, 50 marks new sterling or old of equal value: and he shall cause the church to be served by a priest and clerk, maintain the houses and court thereto belonging, also the chancel, books and ornaments of the church. Done in the chapter of Wells, v non October.
R.I. f. 69d.

Letter of J. Sarr[acenus] dean of Wells and the chapter to Master N. de Euesham one of the canons, stating that it was long ago resolved in chapter that, to free the church of debt, one fifth of every prebend should be set aside for seven years; that several canons have not paid their part, and it has been decreed that if they do not pay before the octave of the Purification their prebends shall be sequestrated, and in case of resistance they shall be excommunicated; and requiring him to pay 18 marks due, namely 6 marks a year for three years. Dated Wells, St. Martin's day 1248.
R.I. f. 69d.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to W. bishop of Salisbury, stating that by the advice of their late bishop Joscelin, to free their church from debt, it was resolved in general assembly that one fifth of every prebend should be set aside for seven years or longer if necessary, and it has been ordered that certain defaulters shall pay their arrears within the octave of St. Matthias next, or their prebends be sequestrated; that Master J. de Offinton one of the canons declines to obey, nor can they enter his prebend but by grace of the said bishop, being his diocesan; and desiring him to permit them, or else to instruct his official or archdeacon to act. Dated Wells, pridie non. Decemb. 1248.
R.I. f. 69d.

Memorandum that an ordinance was made by J. Sarrac[enus] dean of Wells concerning certain vicars of the church of Wells, namely W. de Cobeham, G. Praull', Richard de Langport, Thomas de Cantia, and Roger nephew of the late chancellor, accused of grave offence; that W. de Cobeham and G. Praull', having taken the cross but agreed not to claim the privilege of cruce signati, should be deprived for three years of their vicarages and commons, and then receive their vicarages again, provided they be found of such life as not to merit expulsion. For the others, see their letters obligatory.
R.I. f. 70.

Memorandum that W. de Hoyland priest late vicar of Wells was accused before the chapter of incontinence with Isabel daughter of Joce, and of backsliding, and of violence towards her father who is an acolyte, and confessed, and gave letters patent, dated the octave of the Assumption August 1248, binding himself to resign his vicarage in case of further scandal; and whereas on the vigil of St. Edmund K. and M. 1248 before the chapter he was accused by W. bishop of Bath and Wells of backsliding with her, an inquiry took place, and he was summoned to hear sentence on Tuesday after St. Lucy, but the chapter instead of proceeding upon the depositions of witnesses allowed him to find compurgators, fixing the Friday after, when he resigned his vicarage into the hands of the subdean in the presence of H. the treasure, N. the succentor, Master A. de Gessich, W. de Cusinton, W. de Purle, J. de Hereford, and almost all the vicars, his resignation was accepted, and the chapter allowed him to receive his stipend for Christmas term next, and to take his place in the choir until the morrow of the Circumcision upon condition of good behaviour, not however to receive his daily commons, but an allowance in lieu of them.
R.I. f. 70

Memorandum that on St. Gregory's day 1248, when the executors of Master N. de Euesham had appeared before the chapter of Wells to know in what sum Master N. was bound to the chapter, it was found that he was bound in 14 marks of arrears of his fifth before his death and 2 marks accruing after his death of his prebend of St. Decumans, also in 12l. 10s. 4d. for costs in a case against Ildicius, also in 6l. towards the fabric for six years, total 43 marks 10s. 4d. Also his goods were bound for the farm of Cristemeleford, as in the ordinance of the dean of London and his colleague: and as the chapter had sequestrated his goods at St. Decumans, it was agreed between them and the executors that his wheat should be threshed and his goods sold by Sir G. de Bristoll', under the supervision of Sir W. the chaplain, and the money deposited under seal in the treasury of Wells until Trinity, provided the executors or one of them should come in the week of Pentecost and shew what sum should be allowed them beyond 21 marks paid in his life time towards his fifth: the lands to be sown at their joint cost, and his oxen to be reserved at 6 marks for the purpose, but if after tillage (waunagium) they should be damaged something should be deducted from the value, namely 10s. each.
R.I. f. 70.

Inspeximus and assent by the chapter of Wells, dated Wells, St. Stephen's day, December 1248, to an ordinance of W. bishop of Bath and Wells touching the church of Sandford Arundel, that whereas the prior and canons of Legh of the order of St. Augustine in the diocese of Exeter by ordinance of bishop Joscelin received 20s. a year thereof, and a question touching the advowson of the same was mooted in the king's court by John Arundel knight, who despoiled them of the said 20s., and was settled before Sir Roger de Turk'by, Sir Gilbert de Preston, Sir William de Sancto Edmundo and Sir Alan de Fornaus justices in eyre at Yvelcestre in the octave of the Purification 27 Henry III, the said John acknowledging the advowson to be the right of the prior and church of Legh to hold in frank almoin, the bishop appropriated the said church to their use, causing it to be served by a chaplain and clerk, and to pay double synodals to the archdeacon in recompense for the injury to his right, saving the authority of the bishop and archdeacon; witnessed by Master John le Fort, Master Robert de Sancto Quintino, Adam de Nutsted canon of Wells, Richard de Button vicar of Wells, Stephen parson of Cyppestaple; and dated Welyngton, the morrow of St. Andrew 1248, by Master John le Fort.
R.I. f. 70d.

Memorandum that on St. Gregory's day 1248 appeared Robert de Euesham rector of the church of Cristemeleford in the chapter of Wells, and being required to give the chapter his bond for an indenmity by reason of the vicarage of the same which he holds of the dean and chapter, for that Master N. de Euesham formerly bound for him was dead, promised to give security to the limits of his power; and as the goods of Master N. were still bound to the chapter, as by ordinance of H. dean of London and MAster Richard de Stanford appears, until payment be made to Hildicius vicar of Cristemeleford of his arrears and of his farm since the said ordinance, the said Robert promised to bring all his documents to Wells in Easter week to prove the chapter harmless, and sign a new bond for payment thenceforward to Hildicius and for their indemnification, to remain in the custody of the chapter, and every year to bring them writings touching his payments to Hildicius.
R.I. f. 70d.

Memorandum that on Friday the morrow of St. Edward K. and M. John de Scryuenam vicar of Wells craved licence to go to T. de Langelegh his lord and take his leave of him: licence refused, but let him well conceal his going and coming, and be back by the close of Easter or Hokeday at latest, or his vicarage would be held vacant. The term set for payment of his stipend for Easter term previously sequestrated was not relaxed, but his daily commons were allowed for the time he should take his place in the church after his return, xvii kal. April, and he withdrew a second time on Annunciation day.
R.I. f. 70d.

Proceedings in the chapter of Wells on Friday the morrow of St. Edward K. and M. 1248, whereas H. de Mertok had been cited by proxy by................chaplain of Lydiard to appear before the subdean of Wells on the said Friday to answer to Henry le Blakecherll' or his proctor touching matters alleged against him, and to make submission, and do his service to the church of Wells as vicar thereof, otherwise his vicarage would be vacated, the said H. did not appear and was suspended accordingly, and peremptorily cited to appear on the morrow of the Annunciation: citation issued on St. Cuthbert's day.
R.I. f. 70d. (ink very faint).

Memorandum that in March 1248 on Monday in Passion week after St. Benedict in the chapter of Wells, Alexander de Bamfeld canon of Wells, having heard that his vicarage of the church of Wells was void by the resignation of William de Cobbeham, presented to teh chapter John de Cumba chaplain, craving that he be admitted without delay. The chapter promised to consider the matter. Done in presence of H. the treasurer, N. the succentor, Master J. de Tanth[on], Master J. de Rak', Master R. de Schapewik, Robert de Marisco, Walter de Purlegh, J. de Derham canons. After deliberation with the precentor, the treasurer, the archdeacon of Tanton, the subdean, the succentor, Master G. de Byham, A. Gessich, J. de Rak', E. de Badest[on], L. de Membiry, J. de Teynt[on], J. de Hereford, Richard de Dinam, J. de Sutton, J. de Button and N. de Walt' on Sunday the octave of Easter, they admitted him on condition that he stand in the said vicarage for three years from the day of admission, which was Saturday before St. Elfege.
R.I. f. 71.

Proceedings in the chapter of Wells on the morrow of the Annunciation 1249, in a cause between the chapter and Henry Blakecherl plaintiffs and Henry de Mertoc vicar of Wells defendant, neither H. nor H. appearing: as to the case of the chapter against the said H. touching his citation to come to Wells and do his service as vicar in person by the letter of the chaplain of Lydiard, the chapter excommunicated him for contumacy, and entrusted the execution of their sentence to the said chaplain, also to cite the said H. to appear on the morrow of the close of Easter. On which day the said H. appeared in chapter, and having sworn to abide by the commands of the church, was ordered to take his place on the third bench with the boys from that day for fifteen days as well for the excommunication he had incurred as for his absence without leave. Touching the sum wherein he is bound to H. le Blakech[erl] by Sir J. de Teynt[on] proctor for the said H., they took a love day between them by the will of the chapter.
R.I. f. 71.

Memorandum that vi. id. April 1249 Robert de Euesham rector of Cristemeleford has deposited in the treasury of Wells 18 marks 10s. new sterling for the dean and chapter, to the behoof of Ildicius vicar of Cristemeleford, of his farm of 25 marks yearly payable to the said Ildicius or his proctor in London within the quinzaine of Easter at least, and says he has paid 6 marks 3s. 4d. towards a subsidy to the pope for the fourth required of the said Ildicius as of the other Italians by the pope's authority; and he must save the dean and chapter harmless of the 6 marks 3s. 4d., and convey the 18 marks 10s. to London at his own cost and risk to be deposited at the New Temple, as in his bond. Sealed by the chapter.
R.I. f. 71.

Memorandum that pridie idus Februar. 1249 letters of the dean and chapter of Wells were granted to Robert de Euesham rector of Cristemeleford stating that he has deposited, etc.

Memorandum that the same Robert has delivered to the chapter eleven instruments touching his payments, from the date of the award made by the dean of London and Master Richard de Stanford between the dean and chapter and Ildicius vicar of Cristemeleford to Easter 1249: (*also on the day of the Exaltation of Holy Cross two instruments for Easter term 1249: also on the morrow of St. Denys two instruments for Easter term 1250.)
R.I. f. 71 (* added later).

Memorandum that on Whitsunday 1249 the chapter of Wells, namely H. Tesson precentor, H. de London treasurer, W. archdeacon of Tanton, Master G. de Byham, H. the subdean, N. the succentor, Masters A. Gessich, J. de Rak', EI[ias] de Badestan, Luke de Membiry, J. de Teynt[on], J. de Hereford, Alexander de Banfeld, Richard de Dynam, J. de Sutton and Nicholas de Wilton, granted to Sir J. de Button the bishop's brother two portions falling to them of the prebend of St. Decuman according to the assessment, which is in all 20l., provided he refund their costs in the tillage of the spring corn (in waunagio tremesii); also to retain the oxen that were of Master N. de Euesham at the same price as the chapter, namely 4l., provided he refund both sums at once.
R.I. f. 71.

Memorandum that whereas H. de Mertok on the morrow of the close of Easter and continuously from day to day until the next Saturday was convened by the chapter, for that he was alleged to have kept the lady of Langeford in the archdeaconry of Tanton, at one time at Wells at another in the said archdeaconry, the said H. declared that he could purge himself; but the report was so general that it was believed rather than the said H., and the chapter decreed that inquiry should be made by the chapter at Wells, and by the archdeacon of Tanton in his archdeaconry, and they should then confer together.
R.I. f. 71.

Whereas the said H. was defamed touching fornication with Alice daughter of Geoffrey the carpenter, and accused in chapter, he confessed; and it was decreed he should make letters patent not to repeat the offence, if he is to take his place in the church.
R.I. f. 71.

Whereas the said H. was gravely accused touching the removal of 20 marks from the treasury, because of the strong suspicion against him, also touching debts he had contracted, and made no sufficient answer, he was asked whether he would resign his vicarage or abide the sentence of the chapter, and craved a day to consider: a day was set him on the morrow of St. Mark provided he content his creditors in the mean time.
R.I. f. 71.

Memorandum that whereas R. abbot of Aling[ney] was summoned to appear before the chapter on the morrow of St. George 1249 to answer, etc., he sent H. one of his monks as proctor (proxy dated Alingn[ey], St. George's day); and as the monk was not a canon, and the chapter would not reveal their secrets to him, it was decreed that the abbot should again be summoned in person on Friday next, the vigil of St. Philip and St. James, and a citation was handed to the vicar of Sutton. The abbot appeared on the day appointed, in presence of the subdean, succentor, Master J. de 'Tanton, Master J. de Rak', Master R. de Sapewik, W. de Purle, W. de Dinam, and J. de Derham, and after warning not to divulge the secrets of the chapter on pain of excommunication, he was charged with perjury, having sworn to observe the customs of their church, and with infringing the custom that in case of litigation between two of the canons, or between a canon and the chapter, the defendant should first be convened before the chapter and not before any other person, in that he had entered his plaint before Sir R. de Wroteham touching the seizure of his nets in teh fishery of Burwere made by the chapter's morward, to the damage of their liberties estimated at 100l. and more, by occasion whereof their men's cattle were distrained and driven from Ceddre to Nyweton and there kept, and had further procured an order of Sir R. that any of their men found between Cury and Bruges should be taken and kept at Nyweton as thieves: the chapter also intended to send to teh king's court, and would require their damages and costs to be refunded by him as a canon, and touched upon his having given security for process, as Sir R. had informed R. (sic) de Purle and J. de Sutton when sent to him. Asked whether as monk or abbot he ever saw the nets seized as aforesaid, he answered always by the forester, save once by H. Ragge, and then they were given up by the provost of Cumba, then steward. Finally he craved a day to consider, otherwise he appealed to the bishop, and was allowed until the morrow of Trinity, and meanwhile his nets were given up, provided that if he and the chapter agree he may keep them, otherwise he shall give them back to the bailiff of Cury, also that he would cause their cattle to be given up.
R.I. f. 71d.

Memorandum that when H. de Mertok appeared before the chapter of Wells on the morrow of St. Mark to say whether he would resign his vicarage or abide the chapter's sentence (as above), he said he had nothing to fear as he was not guilty, and desired inquiry touching his incontinence with Dame Langeford: ordered that inquiry take place before St. John ante Portam Latinam, and conference on the morrow of that feast. For the 20 marks, resolved that Master Robert de Tefford (specially concerned in that business) be cited to appear on the morrow of St. Nereus and St. Nereus and St. Achilles, (citation issued Tuesday after St. Mark). Whereas the said Henry was defamed anew for his connection with a married woman at Lidiard whose husband had gone to the Holy Land five years before, he denied the charge: decreed that Sir W. de Purle make inquiry before St. John's day. Ordered that the said H. content R. Norensis, John the draper, and his other creditors before the morrow of St. John.
R.I. f. 71d.

Memorandum that when H. de Mertok appeared on the morrow of the Ascension before the chapter of Wells, namely H. the precentor, W. archdeacon of Tanton, H. the subdean, Master R. de Sapewik, Master Luke de Membiry, Robert de Marisco, J. de Hereford, and J. de Sutton, to say whether he would resign his vicarage or hear their sentence, he craved a respite until the bishop's coming, which was refused, then until the dean's return, which was granted, on condition he should not take his place in the church (stabit extra eccelesiam) and receive nothing of the common fund or other revenues, nor any stipend of his lord, but his lord should cause another clerk meanwhile to serve the church in lieu of a vicar: this undertaking the said H. gave, and the inquisition was sealed up by the precentor and R. de Marisco, and placed in the chest where the writings of the church are kept.
R.I. f. 71d.

Memorandum that when on the morrow of Trinity the abbot of Alingn[ey] appeared as canon in the chapter of Wells to say whether lie would answer as above, he said he was advised to make no answer to the chapter touching his lay fee or his abbey, save only touching his prebend, wherefore he put himself under the protection of the pope, the king and the bishop, craving that proceedings be suspended till the bishop should come to Wells: the abbot after pressure promised to give back the nets to the bailiff of Cury as agreed on Monday after St. Barnabas next, the chapter protesting that they convened him only touching his person as canon, for contravening the statutes of their church, and dismissing his plea of ignorance. For further consideration, a day was set on Monday after St. Barnabas. Present the treasurer, subdean, succentor. . . . . . .
R.I. f. 71d. (imperfect: the next leaf has been cut out).

Memorandum that on Sunday before St. Andrew 1250 (Sunday letter B) William de Beaumunt provost of Bristol gave back to H. subdean of Wells one halfpenny taken of Walter son of the late Simon de Heanton his man for toll for a fish sold there, and to John de Derham three farthings taken of three men for wheat etc. sold there: and this was done towards Avenue bridge before the seld of William the goldsmith in the presence of . . . clerk of the toll house, who read the king's charter before the said W. de Beaumunt in the street, by these tokens, that the said W. changed a penny with W. the goldsmith for four farthings whereof he handed three to the said John, and the bell was ringing for vespers. And W. de Beaumunt added, after hearing the charter read, that he knew the canons' men should be quit of toll, and if any had to pay, it was for want of an oath that they were their villeins. Next day this was repeated in the toll house by the subdean, and after by W. de Beaumunt before Simon the clerk mayor of the town and several burgesses, and the charter read by Jordan the clerk; whereupon the subdean and the said John, by leave of the mayor etc., withdrew with their toll repaid.
R.I. f. 72. The names of mayor and provost do not agree with Ricart's Kulendar (Camdon Society).

Bond of Robert de Euesham rector of Cristelmeleford in Salisbury diocese to deposit yearly during his life in the treasury of the church of Wells for the dean and chapter 25 marks, for the use of Ildicius vicar of Cristemeleford, before the Sunday on which is sung I sti sunt dies, for the farm of the vicarage which the dean and chapter hold of Ildicius, as in the charter he has and in the institution of the said rector touching his parsonages made by Richard late bishop of Salisbury, which he professes to hold as the vicar's portion during the life of Ildicius; and to convey the said sum to London at his own cost and risk, with the costs of a messenger of the chapter, to be deposited at the New Temple within the quinzaine of Easter at latest, saving to him the residue of his portion in name of the parsonage after such charges paid, the whole church to revert to him after the death or cession of Ildicius. Sworn upon the gospels, with submission to the archdeacon of Wiltesire. Done in the chapter of Wells, in presence of Master Henry Tesson precentor, Henry de London treasurer, Hugh the subdean, Master John de Tanton, Master Gilbert de Biham, Master Adam de Gessich, Master Elias de Baddeston, John de Button, Luke de Membirie, John de Hereforde, Richard de Dinham canons of Wells, vi id. April 1249.
R.I. f. 72.

Memorandum that on Thursday before the Annunciation 1250 the chapter wrote to Reyner de Piperona by the brother who had come for his salary, and revoked his proxy; also to the dean to make a reckoning with the said Reyner and take back his proxy.
R.I. f. 72.

Memorandum that on the vigil of St. Gregory 1250 J. de Hereford gave the names of witnesses he intended to produce before the chapter, to shew that the executors of R. late bishop are bound to answer for the debt which the executors of W. de Badestan withheld, namely 14l. or thereabouts: Ivo who is with Sir W. de Purle, Roger the clerk, Gregory, R. de Alliswrth: a day fixed before the treasurer, J. Fortis, L. de Membiry, R. de Dinam, J. de Teinton, R. de Sapewik and the subdean to produce those in England, the morrow of quasi modo.
R.I. f. 72.

Memorandum that on Saturday after the close of Easter 1250 issued a proxy from the chapter addressed to the pope for Master Gilbert de Sarum and Master Thomas de Alditheford, and the like addressed to the cardinals.

A second and third proxy for the same persons, same date, addressed to the pope.
R.I. f. 72d.

A letter issued Thursday after the translation of St. Andrew 1251, by authority of the subdean, J. de Button, J. de Teinton, R. de Mar[isco], W. de Purle, W. de Cusinton, and Luke de Membiry: R. de Tefford, J. de Hereford and R. de Dinam consenting the same day:

Whereby the chapter revoke proxies given to G. de Sarum and Thomas de Alditheford, and recall them, seeing that all the provisions made at Oxford on the morrow of the close of Easter have been varied by the bishops of England sitting at London about the quinzaine of Easter, and all the bishops are writing to the lord of Canterbury praying him not to molest them, their chapters or their clergy, and tendering obedience, and pending his answer have suspended their proctors' journey: but if the others proceed they are to proceed also. Instructions to chief proctors to apply also to N. de Cranford, etc.
R.I. f. 72d.

Memorandum that on the Translation of St. Benedict the chapter, after inspecting a letter brought by W. de Cusinton on behalf of the bishop against R. de Winesham, summoned the said R. and set him a day to consider and answer, and to name his accomplices if he chose, namely Friday after St. James.
R.I. f. 72d.

Memorandum that on Ash Wednesday the chapter despatched a proxy to J. Saracenus the dean at the court of Rome.
R.I. f. 72l.

Memorandum that on the morrow of St. Bartholomew 1251 issued a letter from the chapter of Wells testifying that H. de Lydyard also called de Mertok, formerly vicar of that church, withdrew with their leave.
R.I. f. 72d.

Memorandum that on the translation of St. Swithun 1252 issued a letter from the chapter of Wells, addressed to W. bishop of Bath and Wells, presenting Roger de Totton a chaplain in the church of Wells to the perpetual vicarage of Ceddre with the obventions to the altar and small tithes, to be assessed according to the provincial council; dated iv. id. July.

Also a similar letter presenting J. de Cumba to the vicarage of Lidiard.
R.I. f. 72d.

Proxy given by the chapter of Wells to Master W. de Button and Master W. de Sancto Quintino archdeacons of Wells and Tanton and W. de Maydeneston, to announcence to the prior and convent of Bath the death of Jocelin their bishop, and arrange with them to send to the king's court and obtain licence to elect, with power to appeal. Dated Wells, Saturday after St. Edmund 1242. (Marginal note that appeal was made the Sunday following at Bath in the prior's chamber under the great hall, before the prior and the greater part of the convent.)
R.I. f. 73.

Form of citation to attend on Friday before St. Thomas Ap. in chapter at Wells for the election upon the death of bishop J., with warning of the hindrances prepared for them by the prior and monks of Bath.
R.I. f. 73

Commission by the dean and chapter of Wells to Master Philip de Gildeford to go with their letters to the king, and to shew a copy of certain instruments of theirs touching their right of electing a bishop with the monks of Bath.
R.I. f. 73 (repeated f. 74, but there cancelled).

Letter of J. dean of Wells and the chapter to Sir Geoffrey de Wlward the king's clerk, announcing their intention shortly to send for licence to elect a bishop in place of bishop J. after assembling all the canons, and praying his influence to prevent their being forestalled by the monks of Bath, seeing that the power to elect is vested in them and the monks of Bath jointly.
R.I. f. 73d.

Appeal by J. dean of Wells and the chapter to the papal see against any attempt to prejudice their right jointly with the prior and convent of Bath to elect a bishop after the death of bishop Jocelin; and proxy to Sir Philip de Gildeford one of the canons and Richard the clerk for that purpose. Dated Wells, St. Lucy 1242.
R.I. f. 73d. (repeated f. 75).

Letter of J. dean of Wells and the chapter to Master Philip de Gildeford canon, directing him (if possible in company with Sir Hugh de Vivona, Sir Peter Chacepork and Geoffrey Wlward the king's clerk) to lay before the king their accompanying letters deprecatory touching attempts made by the monks of Bath to prejudice their joint right to elect a bishop after the death of bishop J.
R.I. f. 73d.

Letter of J. dean of Wells and the chapter to Thomas prior of Bath and the convent, despatched by H. the subdean and Luke one of the canons, requesting them by reason of their joint right to elect a bishop to join in sending messengers to the king to crave licence to elect by Christmas or the morrow at the latest; and appealing against any attempt to act without them, as they have appealed on the day of the bishop's burial in the church of Wells, and after at Bath by their proctors in the presence of the prior and the greater part of the convent. Dated Monday the morrow of St. Thomas Ap. 1242.
R.I. f. 74

Memorandum that on Tuesday after St. Thomas Ap. 1242 came to Bath Hugh called subdean of Wells and Luke de Membiry canon of Wells, with these letters and with four vicars of Wells, namely Walter de Sarum, Richard de Button chaplains, John de Cerde, William de Brug' deacons, and David the clerk nephew of the treasurer of Wells, and about the third hour entered the hall of the priory guest-house and there found the prior with certain monks, namely Thomas de Theukebiry, Richard formerly almoner, John Kaddok, Richard de Kanning the younger, Walter the kitchener (quisinarius) and two more, and Masters Robert de Theford and Henry de Bathonia, in whose presence the subdean read the above letters and handed them to the prior, requesting him in the name of the chapter to communicate them to the convent, who said he would do so: and the subdean thrice warned the prior to join in sending messengers to the king.
R.I. f. 74.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to W.archbishop of York thanking him for assistance touching the execution of the late bishop's will, and for his public testimony in the king's council to their right of electing a bishop with the church of Bath; stating that they have by his advice held several meetings to negotiate with the monks of Bath, but the latter having all the time been secretly attempting to obtain licence to elect, they have little hope of a settlement; and praying him to grant J. Sarr[acenus] their dean and Robert de Mariscis one of the canons (whom they are sending to the king for licence to elect) leave to cross the sea, to signify to the king the truth about the case by letter and to give them his further advice and aid.
R.I. f. 74d.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to W. bishop of Carlisle, thanking him for his advice, and for his testimony before the archbishop and the king's council about their joint right of election, and praying him to signify the truth about the case to the king by letter, and to give his aid and advice to J. Sarracenus their dean and Robert de Mariscis canon, whom they are sending, as above.
R.I. f. 74d.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to their friend and fellow canon Sir S. de Everdon the king's clerk, requesting him to advance with his aid and advice the business of their church, for which they are sending the dean and Sir Robert de Mariscis canon to the king.
R.I. f. 75.

Proxy to act in the court of Rome, addressed by the chapter of Wells to Pope I[nnocent IV], in favour of John Sarracenus his subdeacon and chaplain dean of Wells and Master John de Offinton one of the canons, touching the election of a bishop. Dated Wells in chapter, St. John Ev. 1242 [1243*].
R.I. f. 75 [* correction in a late hand.]

Letter of the chapter of Wells to O. cardinal deacon of St. Nicholas in carcere Tulliano, praying his aid and advice for John Sarracenus their dean [*Hugh their subdean and Master Simon de Chelewrthe their clerk] whom they are sending to the court of Rome, especially against the prior and monks of Bath who are trying to exclude them from the their joint right of electing a bishop.
R.I. f. 75d. [* added in the margin in a late hand].

Summons by Th[omas] prior of Batch and the convent to John dean of Wells and the chapter to their church of Bath on Friday after the Purification, on which day they will proceed to the election of a bishop without prejudice to their own rights; and protest against any claim of the chapter by right or custom to join in the election. Dated Bath, iii kal. February 1243.
R.I. f. 75d.

Appeal by the chapter of Wells to the papal see against any attempt to elect a bishop without them, they having the right to elect jointly with the monks of Bath, and being ready to proceed to an election; and proxy to H. the subdean and Master H. de Atrio Dei to lay this appeal in the church of Bath, signifying the same to Th[omas] prior of Bath. Dated Wells, St. Agatha V. 1242.
R.I. f. 75d.

Memorandum that on St. Agatha's day about vespers came H. the subdean and Master H. de Atrio Dei, and read the above letter in a chamber below the hall of the guest-house in presence of Thomas the prior, W. the sacrist, the precentor, and Gilbert de Kaerdine monks, a monk unknown, a chaplain warden of the bakehouse, Master Robert de Theford, Master Henry de Bathonia and Simon the physician (phisicus) the prior's clerks, John de Hereford clerk and Thomas the hunter servants of the chapter, etc., in whose presence they made appeal, and craved a conference with the convent, which was refused, wherefore they again appealed. Afterwards the said proctors, while passing through the parlour, appealed in presence of Robert the old sacrist, R. the monk, the said chaplain and two other monks. Afterwards entering the church they sat before the door of the choir craving a conference with the convent, which was refused by Master Robert de Teford, Master Henry de Bathonia and Simon the physician, who procured that all the monks in the church should enter their cloister and bolted the doors, and from that the said proctors appealed before the said masters, the precentor of the house, and two servants of the sacrist named Henry and Robert. On the morrow they appealed against the sentence pronounced by the precentor upon all who might hinder their election, in presence of H. archdeacon of Bath, W. de Button archdeacon of Wells, W. de Sancto Quintino archdeacon of Tanton, Richard de Button chaplain of the archdeacon of Wells, Walter chaplain of the archdeacon of Bath, William the dean of Bath, Master Robert de Sancto Quintino, Richard clerk . . . John de Sancto Quintino, Thomas the hunter, Walter Bavent, William Escamel, Robert the marshal esquires of the archdeacon of Bath, Elyas his steward etc., and this appeal was renewed before the prior and certain of his monks who entered to celebrate the election, again when Master Osmund read the licence, and a third time when the election was published by the prior. Appeal was made against the election celebrated in contempt of the canons, and against the person elect. Also the said proctors appealed against the person elect in the chapel of Salisbury the Saturday following, before Robert de Hertford the dean, Henry de Lexinton treasurer, Giles archdeacon of Berkshire, Roger the succentor, Master Henry de Bissoppeston, Master Thomas de Ebleburn and Ralph de Eboraco, and the messengers of the convent of Bath, namely Walter the sacrist and Gilbert de Dunstorre monks, Master Henry de Bathonia and Osmund de Idemestun.
R.I. f. 75d. (in margin).

Letter of the chapter of Wells to T. prior of Bath and the convent, stating that as their two late conferences at Farenton touching the joint election of a bishop had been inconclusive owing to the absence of certain friends of both parties, they are upon advice sending the archdeacons of Bath, Wells and Tanton to confer with them. Dated Wells, St. Agatha's day 1242.
R.I. f. 75d.

Summons by the chapter of Wells to Sir W. de Eboraco provost of Beverley one of their canons, to be present in chapter on Friday after Ash Wednesday (capud jejunii), to deal with the election of the precentor of Salisbury wrongfully made, in spite of their appeal to the papal see and to the injury of their liberties, by the monks of Bath, with whom they have a joint right of election and jointly elected the bishop lately deceased*; enclosing a summary of their proceedings since the bishop's death, not to be communicated except to Sir R. de Lexinton and Sir S. de Everdon; and praying him to forward his opinion by H. the subdean, whom they are sending for the purpose.
R.I. f. 76. * Marginal note that thus far it is in common form.

Immediately after the bishop's death the chapter sent a message to the prior and convent of Bath desiring them to send a joint deputation to the king for his licence to elect jointly, as they elected the late bishop, and appealing to the papal see against any attempt to proceed without them. The monks asked for a confernce, and meanwhile secretly sent to the king for licence to elect. The chapter met and named proctors to go to the king, first giving notice to the monks to join with them; but the monks' messengers were before them, and procured a licence; and they sent letters patent to the chapter (enclosed) which were recived on Saturday before the Purification. The chapter (all of whom could not arrive in time) sent proctors to Bath on Thursday after the Purification, and appealed to the papal see against any attempt to proceed without them; but they were not admitted to the convent, nor were others who had been appointed to negotiate for an accord, but the monks offered to allow them and all the canons who were at Bath to join in the election, which they declined to do, as they had no summons for that purpose, and had there been a summons, there had not been time for others to attend. The monks, in contempt of the chapter, elected the precentor of Salisbury; and the chapter again appealed to the papal see against the election and the person elect, notifying the same to the said precentor, and sending copies of the instruments on which they relied; and appealed against his assent to the election; but he did assent. The chapter have also notified the king's council, praying that the royal assent may be withheld.
R.I. f. 76.

Proxy addressed by the chapter of Wells to Pope I[nnocent] in favour of John Sarracenus the pope's subdeacon and chaplain and dean of Wells, for litigation in the court of Rome touching the joint election of a bishop of the church of wells and the monastery of Bath by them and the monks, between themselves and the prior and convent, and between themselves and Master Roger precentor of salisbury elected by the monks, notifying the same to the said prior and convent, and to the said master Roger. Dated xiv kal. March 1242.

(Marginal notes, giving the form of similar proxies for Hugh the subdean and Master Simon de Cheleworth clerk; and correcting the date to 1243.)
R.I. f. 77.

Petition of the chapter of Wells to King H[enry III], stating that they and the monks of Bath had a joint right of electing a bishop, as they elected the bishop last deceased; that the monks secretly forestalled them and obtained his licence to elect, and contrary to right and to their appeal to the papal see and to him, have elected the precentor of Salisbury; and praying him to withhold his assent.
R.I. f. 77.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to J. Sarracenus the pope's subdeacon and chaplain and dean of Wells, to inform him of their doings since his departure, stating that on Staurday before the Purification they received letters patent from Thomas prior of Bath and the convent (see above), and determined to assemble all the canons on Friday after Ash Wednesday to consult (form as above), but have no intention of proceeding to an election unless the monks' election be first quashed, as the dean advised. For fear the monks should forestall them and get the king's assent, as they has his licence to elect, they request the dean if possible (unless he is sure that they have the pope) to see the king again, and prevent his assenting, and for that purposes send a proxy and appeal; but are sending someone else to the king in haste, for fear the bearer fail them. It is superfluous to ask him to display earnestness especially at Rome, to adopt the attitude of possessor not petitioner, and to take advice from those who know the court better than they do.
R.I. 77d.

Letter of King Hendry III to the dean and chapter of Wells, stating that licence to elect was granted to the monks of Bath saving the rights of the church of Wells, and that he believes they are not thereby prejudiced. Dated Bordeaux, 28 January.
R.I. f. 78.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to Thomas prior of Bath and the convent, stating that they have obtained the king's licence to elect a bishop, and summoning them to join in the election in their church of Wells on the morrow of Trinity, or else to confer with them at Ferenton on the vigil of St. Philip and St. James concerning a fit place, otherwise they will proceed to elect. Dated Wells, xii kal. May 1243.
R.I. f. 78.

Memorandum that on Tuesday after St. George this citation issued, by Luke de Membiry, Richard de Dynam canons, W. de Brug', Serlo, Walter de Salesbury and John de Cerda vicars, who read it at Bath in the presence of the subprior, precentor, and other monks, and handed it to the subprior, who accepted it.
R.I. f. 78 (in margin).

Licence to elect by King H[enry III] to the dean and chapter of Wells, on petition of J. the dean and R. de Marisco one of the canons, who announced the death of bishop J., saving the right of the church of Bath. Dated Bordeaux, 10 March 27 Henry III.

A second copy 'saving the right of the church of Bath, if it have any right in the election, upon the voidance of the see.' Same date.
R.I. f. 78.

Letter of King H[enry III] to the dean and chapter of Wells, stating that John de Derham one of the canons and Alexander de London clerk of their church had come with their letters protesting their appeal to the pope, and undertaking that, pending such appeal, he would do nothing in prejudice of thier rights against the prior and the monks of Bath, who has presented to him Master R. precentor of Salisbury as their elect. Dated Bordeaux, 24 March 27 Henry III.

(Marginal note.) Received at Wells St. Mark's day.
R.I. f. 78d.

Proxy given by the chapter of Wells to H. the subdean and Master H. de Atrio Dei canons, to meet the prior and monks of Bath at Ferenton on the vigil of St. Philip and St. James and treat concerning a fit place for the election of a bishop to be celebrated on the morrow of Trinity. Dated Wells, Wednesday before St. Philip and St. James 1243.

(Marginal note.) This proxy issued on the vigil of St. Philip and St. James.
R.I. f. 78d.

Memorandum that on Thursday before St. Philip and St. James, on their vigil, were present at Ferenton, with the said proctors of the chapter. Master W. de Button archdeacon of Wells, Master W. de Sancto Quintino archdeacon of Thanton, H. treasurer of Wells, Master Robert de sancto Quintino and Gwileminus clerks of the archdeacon of Thanton, David the treasurer's clerk, Nicholas clerk of the archdeacon of Wells, Thomas hunter of J. late bishop of Bath, Walter de Bavent, Robert Marmion esquires of the archdeacon of Wells, William de Bureford chaplain of Palton, Vygeroys yeoman of the archdeacon of Thanton, Gilbert de Lentenay yeoman of the archdeacon of Wells, Dudeman the clerk yeoman of the treasurer, William de Eston 'minor,' Richard de Evercriz yeoman of the subdean, Henry de Pridie yeoman of Thomas the hunter.
R.I. f. 78d.

Letter [of the chapter] to the king, with thanks for his letters, messengers, and lastly for sending Sir P. Russinol his clerk, who on the morrow of Trinity at Wells desired knowledge touching their proceedings: and stating that upon advice and full consideration they decided to make no election until the election by the monks of Bath of (*Master Roger) precentor of Salisbury be quashed, especially in view of the appeal to the papal see lodged by the said monks against a new election. [No date.]
R.I. f. 78d. *The name in margin.

Addition in a second letter under the chapter seal, by Richard (sic), recommending to the king his faithful clerk J. Mansell, one of the canons.
R.I. f. 78d.

Letter [of the chapter] to the queen, replying to several letters of hers, by which were inculcated prayers for N. the king's clerk and hers, and stating that at an assembly in the church of Wells on the morrow of Trinity it was decided to make no election until the election made after their appeal to the papal see by the monks of Bath be quashed. [No date.]
R.I. f. 79.

Proxy for proceedings in the court of Rome, addressed by the chapter of Wells to Pope I[nnocent IV], in favour of John Sarracenus the dean. (Similar to proxy on f. 77, but undated.)
R.I. f. 79.

Similar proxy, dated Wells, the vigil of St. Peter ad vincula 1243. (The pope not named.)
R.I. f. 79.

Similar proxy, same date. The pope's name left blank.
R.I. f. 79.

Similar proxy, same date, addressed omnibus Christi fidelibus.
R.I. f. 79d.

[Proxy by the chapter of Wells to John Sarracenus the pope's subdeacon and chaplain dean of Wells, to contract a loan of 100 marks for their business in the court of Rome. Dated Wells, St. Peter ad vincula 1243].

[Under this form are four letters, the first of 50 marks (altered in late hand to 100 marks), the second of 25 marks the third of 25 marks, the fourth of 20 marks (altered to 50).]

Cancelled: Marginal note,Cassantur quia reportantur.'
R.I. f. 79 d.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to John de Columba cardinal priest of St. Praxed, recommending to his favour their dean J. Sarr[acenus], especially against the prior and monks of Bath, who have infringed their joint rights by electing Master R. precentor of Salibury as bishop, in spite of appeals by the chapter to the papal see.
R.I. f. 79d.

Letter of the chapter of Wells to John de Offinton one of the canons, who is bound to defend the joint right of their church in the election of a bishop against the monks of Bath, as J. Sarracenus the dean, who is proceeding to the court of Rome, will explain by word of mouth, praying his aid and counsel.
R.I. f. 79d.

Memorandum that on Tuesday after the Assumption 1243 were delivered in the chapter letters of the canons of Wrspring, dated on the morrow of the Assumption 1243, addressed to the dean and chapter, presenting Richard canon of Kaynesham, formerly parson of Stock, for confirmation as their prior elect, after the death of prior Reginald, during the vacancy of the see; and after deliberation upon the election and the merit of the elect, confirmation was given, and a writing made, in presence of (*R. de Ken') chancellor, (* H. de London) treasurer, (* . . de Sancto Quintino) archdeacon of Tanton, (*W. de Westhamsteide) provost of Cumba, (*Nicholas de Selleburn) succentor, Luke de Membiry, John Odelin, John de Sutton, Richard de Dynam, Jocelin the chaplain, William de Pilton, William de Kaynesham, John de Derham, Walter Brunus, Ralph de Chyu, Richard de Langport, Miles, Roger de Wynesham, William de Lecchelad, Walter Sar,' John de Kaynesham, Roger de Westbury, Luke de Bristollia, Walter de Cerda, Th[omas] de Kent, Robert de Welles canons and vicars.
R.I. f. 80. * These names are interlineations.

Confirmation by the chapter (as above). Done on Tuesday after the Assumption, in August.
R.I. f. 80.

Memorandum that the subdean has five instruments concerning a loan in the same form as the dean, the first of 100 marks, the second of 50 marks, the third of 25 marks, the fourth of 25 marks, the fifth of 20 marks.
R.I. f. 80.

Form of summons to the canons by the chapter of Wells, to be present or to appoint a proctor on the morrow of the Ascension, to deliberate upon an answer to the pope, who has appointed the precentor of Salisbury bishop of Bath without prejudice to their joint right of election with the prior and monks of Bath, and sent letters to that effect to the king, the archbishop elect of Canterbury, the church of Bath, and the clergy and people of the diocese; also upon the cause between the chapter and the church of Bath in the court of Rome touching their right of election. Dated the morrow of St. Mark 1244.
R.I. f. 80d.

Memorandum that on Wednesday the vigil of St. Giles 1244 issued letters of the dean and chapter, at the request of the dean and chapter of Lincoln (by Master Walter de Well'), addressed to Pope Innocent[IV], praying him to consider the case of the Lincoln chapter, who are being oppressed by the bishop, touching certain liberties and customs approved in the churches of Lincoln and Wells, and in most of the cathedral and prebendal churches of England.
R.I. f. 80d.

On Sunday after the Nativity of St. Mary 1244 in the conventual church of Rading appeared for the church of Wells canons specially appointed, namely Master R. de Kenylworth chancellor, Henry de London treasurer, Master Walter de Sancto Quintino archdeacon of Tanton, Hugh de Romenal subdean etc., before bishops, abbots, priors, prelates and clerks of England assembled to celebrate the consecration of Master Roger bishop of Bath, and letters of pope Innocent to Boneface archbishop elect of Canterbury being first read, and others to the dean and chapter of Wells whereby (inter alia) the pope ordained that in future the monks of Bath and canons of Wells should have equal power touching the election of a bishop, postulated the said Master Roger for bishop. And because in the said papal letters four questions were reserved, namely where the election should be held, which should be the cathedral church, which should have the installation, and after which the bishop should be named, they appealed to the papal see that nothing should be done to their prejudice. Afterwards, as the hour of consecration approached, no postulation being made according to the manner of the church of England, W. de Ralegh bishop of Winchester, being deputed to consecrate, proceeded to the examination; and the bishop elect professed obedience to the archbishop elect of Canterbury and his successors.
R.I. f. 80d.