Acts and accounts: 1719-34

1719–1720.

1719, Oct. 9.—Guy Clinton, N.P., and Edmund Giles Hooper, gent., were appointed bishop's registrars for their lives.—fo. 145d.

Robert Layng, M.A., and Henry Layng, B.A., were appointed registrars to the archdeacon of Wells, for their lives, by Henry Layng, S.T.P., archdeacon of Wells, their father.

John Paine junior, N.P., appointed chapter clerk for life, on the death of William Westley, esq.; nominated by Marshal Brydges, the chancellor.—fo. 146.

1719–20, Jan. 10.—Mr. James Nooth, deputy clerk of the courts, is appointed game-keeper for the manor of Canon Grange.—fo. 147d.

1719–20, Jan. 20.—Elias Rebotier, priest of the church of England, installed in the prebend of Wivelishcomb, on the death of John Wells, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 148.

1719–20, Feb. 6.—James Knight, priest of the church of England, installed in the prebend of Henstridge, on the resignation of Elias Rebotier, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 149.

1719–20, March 9.—Richard Healy, M.A., presented to the vicarage of St. Cuthbert's, Wells, on the resignation of John Pope; nominated by Dr. Cheyney.—fo. 150.

1720, July 1.—John Brown of Wells, hatter, has leave to make a way and door into the churchyard from a little house situate in the west end of the churchyard, and to the north of the house where William Moore now lives; he must pay 2s. a year as an acknowledgment.—fo. 152d.

1720, July 16.—Mr. Broadway, Mr. Crosse and Mr. Boulter, vicars-choral, are suspended from commons for a week, for absenting themselves from service yesterday, without leave.—fo. 153d.

1720, July 20.—The leads of the pinnacle tower are to be taken up and new laid; the pitching on the north side of the churchyard wall, from Brown's Gate to Close Hall Gate, is to be repaired.—fo. 154.

Dr. Archer is to take an account of what books are wanting in the library to complete some of the volumes therein; they are to be bought with what library money is now in stock.—

1720, Sept. 8.—John Paine junior and Henry Layng are appointed registrars of the archdeaconry of Wells, for their lives and the life of the survivor.

Undated; about 1720.—Lease to Marshall Brydges of Wells, clerk, for 3 lives, of the decoy pool newly made within the manor of North Curry and a little dwelling house newly built thereon (sic), and all tame fowl belonging thereto, and all structures, buildings, engines, pipes, reed-works and appurtenances, and the sole liberty of fishing, fowling and hunting within the said manor. Lessee to pay 2l. 10s. yearly rent, and also "fifteen couples of fatt and good fowle, viz. duck, mallard, widgeon and teale, for the use of their audit dinners on the first Munday in December."—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 161.]

Accounts of Marshal Brydges, M.A., Communar and Receiver-General, 1719–20.

Accounts of Edmund Archer, S.T.P., Archdeacon of Taunton and Canon Residentiary, Master or Keeper of the Fabric, 1719–20.

Receipts: 7l. 10s. for burials, no names.

Payments: 117l. 2s. 2d. to workmen for repairs.

1720–1721.

1720, Oct. 1.—The dean (Matthew Brailsford) and Dr. Archer protested against the repeated election of Mr. Brydges as communar. (fn. 1) —fo. 156.

1720, Oct. 28.—William Lucey, M.A., installed in the prebend of Wanstrow, on the death of John Agate, S.T.P., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 157d.

1720, Nov. 25.—John Perry, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe II, on the death of Morgan Jones, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 158.

1720, Dec. 1.—Robert Woodford, LL.B., priest of the church of England, installed in the prebend of Combe I, on the death of Martin Strong, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 158d.

1720, Dec. 2.—Edward Johnson, B.A., priest of the church of England, installed in the prebend of Combe XIII, on the death of Henry Allyne, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 159.

1720–1, March 10.—Thomas Eyre, M.A., installed in the prebend of Compton Dundon, now vacant, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 161.

1721, May 13.—Thomas Ford, M.A., installed in the prebend of Wedmore IV, on the resignation of William Lucey, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 162.

1721, May 25.—Lease to Avis Cannington of Wells, widow, for 40 years, of a dwelling house situate at the upper end of the High Street or Market Place, against the market house eastward, and next adjoining to the Guild Hall, now in the tenure of Mr. Guydo Clinton, on the south, the porch or gate leading into the churchyard on the north, and Chorister House on the east.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 181.]

1721, July 1.—Ordered that none of the vicars-choral shall have leave given them to be absent above the space of one week at any one time, without the consent of the chapter first obtained in the chapter house, and an act made thereof.—fo. 163d.

1721, July 19.—Ordered that Mr. Collins, who lays claim to the prison-house and fair of North Curry, shall be wrote to that the dean and chapter insist on their right thereto, and that Mr. Collins forthwith produce to them his title, otherwise that a legal proper method be taken for recovering the same.—fo. 164d.

1721, July 27.—John Rogers, S.T.P., installed in the dignity of sub-dean of Wells, on the death of John Whitehand, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 165.

George Atwood, S.T.P., installed in the prebend of Whitchurch, on the death of John Vannam, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 165d.

1721, Aug. 8.—The leads of the church, now out of repair, are to be amended forthwith.—fo. 166.

Mr. Perry, priest-vicar-choral, has leave of absence for 6 weeks.

1721, Sept. 5.—Samuel Farthing, M.A., installed in the prebend of Milverton II, on the death of John Whitehand, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 166d.

1721, Sept. 19.—One of the keys of the chest in which the common chapter seal is kept is not to be had, viz. Dr. Layng's, he being out of town; the seal is required at once. Ordered that the lock be forced.—fo. 167.

Accounts of Marshal Brydges, M.A., Communar and Receiver-General, 1720–21.

Payments: 1l. to Dr. Archer for a sermon on Dec. 15, 1720, a fast-day because of the pestilence; 1l. 11s. 6d. to Mr. Broderip for anthems bought of Mr. Paul of Exeter.

Accounts of Edmund Archer, S.T.P., Master or Keeper of the Fabric, 1720–21.

Receipts: 2l. 16s. 8d. for burials, no names.

Payments: 88l. 16s. 2d. to workmen for repairs.

1721–1722.

1721, Oct. 27.—Nathaniel Bridges, B.A., nominated by Dr. Hunt to the vicarage of Mudford, on the death of Hugh Lambert.—fo. 169.

1721–2, Feb. 10.—Mr. Franklyn, vicar-choral, was charged that on Ash Wednesday last, during divine service, he had married two persons in the chapel called "Our Lady's Chapell," with the leave of the president of the chapter. He confessed it and humbly submitted, and promised not to offend in the like again.—fo. 171.

1721–2, Feb. 17.—Dr. Archer protested against William Malet, the clerk of the courts, holding courts, ignoring the customs of the church observed for 300 years, and usurping the name of under-steward, etc.—fo. 172.

1721–2, Feb. 22.—Richard Lux, B.A., nominated to the vicarage of Stogumber by Dr. Hunt, on the death of William Camplyn [?].—fo. 172d.

1722, May 9.—Dr. John Rogers, the sub-dean, elected proctor for the synod summoned for May 18th.—fo. 174.

1722, Aug. 20.—Ordered that James Nooth shall be and is hereby dismissed from keeping the dean and chapter's courts as deputy to Mr. Malet, the clerk of the courts, or doing any business for the dean and chapter under the authority of the said Mr. Malet; and that the next court leet and court baron at North Curry shall be held at the usual place on Tuesday, Oct. 16 next; and that an order or summons under the common or chapter seal shall in the meantime be sent to Mr. Malet, requiring him to attend then and there to execute his office in person as clerk of the courts.—fo. 177d.

1722, Aug. 21.—Dr. Cheyney, Dr. Hunt, Mrs. Hales and Mr. Paine junior, are to be requested to cause rails to be put up as formerly, before their doors, courts and gardens on the north side of the liberty, in the same manner as is now done by Mrs. Evans and Mrs. Irish before their houses, in order to have the same continued with uniformity down to the rails already erected by Mr. Sherston.—fo. 178.

1722, Aug. 25.—Lease to Elizabeth Irish of Wells, widow, for 40 years, of a messuage or tenement and mansion house within the liberty, abutting on the house and garden of the late college called Mountroy College, now in the possession of Anne Evans, spinster, or her tenants, on the east, the canonical house and garden now in the tenure of Thomas Cheyney, D.D., on the west, and a close in the tenure of William Baron, gent., on the north; rent 19s. and 12d.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 230.]

1722, Aug. 29.—Mr. Tristram Evans is desired and empowered (in the absence of Mr. Malet, the clerk of the courts) to attend on Dr. Archer, the steward, at the next courts held for the manors of Bicknaller and Congresbury.—fo. 179.

1722, Sept. 1.—To William Malet, esq., clerk of the courts. We, the dean and chapter . . ., suffering in our affairs by your long absence, do now give you notice that we have appointed a court leet and court baron to be held for our liberty and manor of North Curry on Tuesday, the 16th day of October next ensueing . . .; and we do require your personal attendance, then and there to do and perform the duty belonging to your office as clerk of our courts; and in case you refuse or neglect to attend, we shall forthwith remove you from your office and grant a new patent to some other person.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 233.]

1722, Sept. 24.—Whereas Abraham Gapper, esq., pretends to have a deputation from Mr. Malet, the clerk of the courts, it is declared and ordered that Mr. Malet has not by his patent any right to depute any person to execute his office. The chapter disowns and refuses to allow any such deputation to Mr. Gapper, or to permit him to act thereunder.—fo. 179d.

1722, Sept. 24 [sc. 27].—To the commanding officer of the soldiers in Wells :

The dean and chapter—taking into consideration the message sent to the dean by the colonel, requesting that the soldiers may enter the cathedral church with their arms, in a military manner, in order to attend divine service—return as their answer that they cannot consent to any such practice, it being, in their opinion, a violation of the reverence due to a place dedicated to God's service, and contrary to the laws ecclesiastical of this realm, and the peculiar trust in them reposed makes it their duty to preserve the cathedral (as far as in them lies) from such irregularities.—fo. 180.

Accounts of Henry Layng, S.T.P., Archdeacon of Wells, Communar and Receiver-General, 1721–22.

Payments: 11s. 8d. for books for the library; 1l. to Dr. Hunt for a sermon on the gule of August; 2l. 11s. 4d. for repairs to the chancel of Winscombe church.

Accounts of William Hunt, S.T.P., Archdeacon of Bath and Canon Residentiary, Master or Keeper of the Fabric, 1721–22.

Receipts: 1l. 6s. 8d. for burials, no names.

Payments: 39l. 10s. 10d. to workmen for repairs.

1722–1723.

1722, Oct. 1.—One year's purchase shall be demanded of every person for granting a fifth life on any estate within the dean and chapter's manors.—fo. 181d.

Mr. Brydges is deputed to hold courts for the dean and chapter for the current year, Dr. Archer dissenting.—fo. 182.

1722, Oct. 13.—Mr. Tristram Evans is desired and empowered, in the absence of Mr. Malet, the clerk of the courts, to attend Mr. Brydges, the now steward, at the next courts to be held for the liberty and manors of North Curry, East Curry, Wrantage and Westhatch. Mr. Brydges shall, on Tuesday next, the day appointed, personally attend at the court leet and court baron to be held for the liberty and manor of North Curry, and then and there call the said Mr. Malet to attend and perform the duty belonging to his office as clerk of the courts; if he shall not personally attend on being called, Mr. Brydges shall cause his default to be entered in the book or on the rolls amongst the acts of the court.—fo. 182d.

1722, Oct. 19.—Mr. Malet did not attend when he was called on the 16th inst.; it is therefore decreed that his patent as clerk of the courts is become void, and is hereby accordingly declared null and void, Mr. Brydges and Dr. Hunt dissenting.—fo. 183.

Mr. Eldridge Aris's letter, resigning his place as priest-vicar, was read and accepted.

1722, Oct. 20.—Nine vicars-choral attended, and the chapter proposed Mr. Edward Johnson, clerk, as a vicar-choral. All the vicars, except Mr. Perry, agreed to this, and retired to their common hall to make an act of the resignation of Mr. Aris. Soon after, Mr. Long, the receiver of the vicars, came back and acquainted the dean and chapter that Mr. Perry had refused to admit them into their common-hall or to suffer a hall to be called. Mr. Perry was sent for, and admonished, as one of the principals of Close Hall, immediately to call a hall and to admit the rest of the vicars thereto, which he absolutely refused to do. In the afternoon the said nine vicars again attended, and said that a hall had been called by Mr. Gravell, one of their principals, at which all except Perry agreed to accept Mr. Aris's resignation. The chapter again proposed Mr. Johnson, who was admitted. Mr. Perry was suspended from all emoluments, fees, etc., as a vicar-choral, until Christmas, and further until he shall make satisfaction.—fos. 183d–185.

1722, Nov. 14.—Mr. Hill, vicar-choral, is deprived of his office and his place declared vacant, for neglecting for a long time to do his duty and attend as a vicar at divine service in the cathedral, and for contemptuously refusing to appear before the chapter and receive an admonition to that purpose.—fo. 185.

1722, Nov. 15.—The vicars appeared, and were informed that Mr. Hill's place was vacant, and warned not to receive him hereafter as a vicar.—fo. 186.

1722, Dec. 1.—William Gannet, B.A., installed in the prebend of Combe V, on the death of Francis Prowde, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 186d.

1722, Dec. 12.—William Healy, esq., appointed clerk of the courts, in place of William Malet, amoved, at a yearly stipend of 56s. 8d. [Also Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 234.]—fo. 187d.

1722–3, Feb. 8.—Thomas Biggs, S.T.B., installed in the prebend of Dultingcott alias Thinghurst, on the death of Gabriel Thistlethwaite, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 189.

1722–3, Feb. 16.—Mr. Farwell Perry, clerk, one of the vicars-choral, was suspended from all emoluments until the next general quarterly chapter on April 1 next, for his great neglect of duty and contemptuous conduct; he must attend regularly in the mean time.—fo. 189d.

1723, March 30.—Edward Burton, B.A., installed in the prebend of Taunton, on the death of Barbar Bevans, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 190d.

1723, April 1.—Mr. Farwell Perry is amoved from the vicars-choral; the other vicars were warned not to receive him as a vicar.—fo. 191.

1723, April 20.—Mr. Perry appealed to the bishop, who wrote to request that the chapter would ask one of their body to let him know what day would be convenient to them for the appeal to be heard. (fn. 2) —fo. 192.

1723, June 22.—John Tazwell, B.A., installed in the prebend of Combe IX, on the death of William Chetle, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 193.

1723, July 1.—In future when any person is buried in the cathedral, the sum of 2l. 6s. 8d., being the fees due to the vicars and choristers for singing the corps into the church, shall be paid whether the corps is sung in or not.—fo. 194d.

Dr. Archer complained that several books had lately been taken out of the library. Ordered, that he should take an account of what books were missing, and make a new catalogue.

Henry Penny, B.A., presented to the rectory of Shipham, on the death of Thomas Randolph; nominated by Dr. Archer.—fo. 195.

1723, July 11.—William Healy, esq., appointed auditor of the dean and chapter, in place of William Malet, deceased.—fo. 196.

1723, Aug. 31.—Samuel Catherall, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe VI, on the death of Thomas Randolph, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 196d.

Accounts of Henry Layng, S.T.P., Communar and Receiver-General, 1722–23.

Payments: 1l. to Dr. Archer for a sermon on April 25, for public thanksgiving; 1l. 1s. to Mr. Broderip for anthems; 2s. 8d. to Robert Teek for repairing the chimes; 10l. to the Charity School of Wells.

Accounts of Henry Layng, S.T.P., Archdeacon of Wells and Canon Residentiary, Master or Keeper of the Fabric, 1722–23.

Receipts: 1l. 10s. for burials, no names.

Payments: 23l. 12s. 11d. to workmen for repairs.

1723–1724.

1723, Nov. 14.—Mr. Lessey to wait on the bishop to request a copy of his lordship's decree and act upon Mr. Perry's appeal concerning his expulsion by the dean and chapter, in order that it may be recorded in their book of acts.—fo. 200.

1723, Nov. 14.—Whereas a dispute hath arisen between the worshipfull the dean and chapter of the cathedrall church

of Wells and Francis Collins of Wiveliscombe in the county of Somersett, gentleman, purchaser from the family of the Sandfords, who claimed from the family of the Aishfords, of the remains of the mannor of Knapp, within the parish of North Curry in the said county, touching the exercising the office of bayliffe of the hundred of North Curry and the fees and perquisites thereunto belonging; and also touching the right and title of the fair and markets and prison-house of North Curry aforesaid—Collins, for good consideration, releases and quit-claims, for himself and his heirs, to the dean and chapter and their successors, all his right, title and claim to the premises, all of which are in the peaceable possession of the dean and chapter, and they release and discharge Collins, his heirs and assigns, from all duties in respect of the office of bailiff of the said hundred.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 256.]

1723, Dec. 3.—Lease to John Norton of Wells, hosier, for 3 lives, of a tenement in Grope lane, Wells, parcel of their manor called Cannon Grange. Lessee to do suit of court at Cannon Barn twice a year.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 260.]

1723, Dec. 5.—Thomas Westley, M.A., installed in the prebend of Ashill, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 201.

1723–4, March 5.—Lawson Hudlestone, M.A., installed in the prebend of Wanstrow, on the death of William Lucey, S.T.P., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 202d.

1724, May 18.—Ordered that six volumes of Rymer's Fœdera be purchased to complete the set given to the library by the hon. Dr. Grahme, late dean.—fo. 203d.

1724, June 8.—The proposal of Thomas Swarbrick, organ maker, some time since offered to the chapter, was produced and read, as follows:

First, there is a necessity of having three new bellows, the old ones being so decayed that there is no keeping them together to hold wind; and also to work the sound boards anew, and to make new palletts or movements in the wind-chests, to hold the wind close together; and also to make three new sets of keys, the old ones being so worn 'tis hardly possible to make use of them; and to make two new stopped diapasons, which will consist of 102 pipes, and likewise a stopped flute of 51 pipes, the old ones being so rotten 'tis impossible to make them speak in tone or tune. There is much want of new conveyances, the old ones being so much bruised and broken that it is not worth while to mend them.

All which work before mentioned I will do in a workmanlike manner for the sum of 146l., or will leave it to any skilfull artist of your own choosing to judge my reward, and will go about the work when you please.

This was accepted by the dean and chapter.—fo. 204.

1724, June 10.—Michael Hunt, M.A., installed in the prebend of Wedmore V, on the death of Peter Webb, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 204d.

Accounts of William Hunt, S.T.P., Archdeacon of Bath and Canon Residentiary, Master or Keeper of the Fabric, 1723–24.

Receipts: 2l. 10s. for burials, no names.

Payments: 183l. 6s. 4½d. to workmen for repairs.

1724–1725.

1724, Oct. 24.—Escott Richards, M.A., installed in the prebend of Lytton, on the death of Thomas Cheyney, S.T.P., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 208d.

1724, Oct. 30.—John Rogers, S.T.P., prebendary of Combe VII, sub-dean, is chosen and admitted a canon residentiary, on the death of Thomas Cheyney, S.T.P.; he paid 100 marks caution money.—fo. 209.

1724, Oct. 31.—Dr. [John] Rogers collated to the canonical house at the east side of Canon Barn, lately occupied by Dr. [Thomas] Cheyney, and now void by his death. [Also Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 279.]—fo. 210.

1724, Nov. 21.—Henry Merewether installed in the prebend of Wedmore III, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.

1724–5, Jan. 4.—Henry Gandy [or Gaudy], B.A., appointed to the vicarage of Pucklechurch, with the chapels of Wester-leigh and Abston annexed, on the death of Henry Berrow; nominated by Dr. Archer.—fo. 212.

1724–5, Feb. 17.—Robert Westcott, B.A., appointed to the rectory of East Lambrook, on the death of John Constantine; nominated by Dr. Archer.—fo. 212d.

1725, April 1.—John Tottenham, M.A., installed in the prebend of Holcomb, on the death of Charles Jones, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 213d.

1725, April 13.—Robert Woodford, LL.B., priest of the English church, installed as treasurer of the cathedral church, on the death of Benjamin Ibbott, S.T.P., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 214.

1725, April 30.—James Bacon, the junior clerk, is reprinanded for keeping horses and sheep in the Palm Churchyard and allowing them to come into the church and cloisters; no horses, sheep or cattle are to feed in the Palm Churchyard in future.—fo. 214d.

The occupiers of houses having doors into the great churchyard are to be warned that if they suffer any coal, ashes, grains or rubbish from their houses to be placed in the said churchyard, their doors will be stopped up.

1725, Aug. 6.—Whereas the clock bell that formerly hung in the pinnacle tower was in 1714 taken down and cast into the 6th bell, called Harewell; ordered that a new bell be forthwith procured and put up in the pinnacle tower. (fn. 3) —fo. 217.

Accounts of William Hunt, S.T.P., Communar and Receiver-General, 1724–25.

Payments: 22l. 7s. 1½d. for Rymer's Fœdera.

Accounts of William Hunt, S.T.P., Master or Keeper of the Fabric, 1724–25.

Receipts: 5l. 6s. 8d. for burials, no names.

Payments: 209l. 12s. 8½d. to workmen for repairs; 21l. to Mr. Swarbrick for repairs to the organ, over and above his yearly 8l.

1725–1726.

1725–6, March 18.—The tenants of the twelve houses in New Works, having doors into the churchyard and rails opposite their doors, have leave to move their rails out to the trees planted and the gravel walk lately made; the rails must be uniform with those set up by Mr. Chancellor Pope, and 1s. additional rent must be paid by each house.—fo. 4.

1725–6, March 24.—John Jenkins, M.A., prebendary of Combe XII, collated to the canonical house in the liberty, late Mr. Thomas Lessey's. John Jenkins elected and admitted a canon residentiary; he paid 100 marks caution money; he is not to have any commodity, except quotidians, nor to begin residence, before Oct. 1, 1727.—fos. 5, 6d.

1726, June 11.—The great book marked number 3, containing several of the dean and chapter's records from the year 1115 to 1240, is to be sent to London for production before the barons of the exchequer in a cause between Thomas Vaugham [sic] v. John Godwin and others.—fo. 10.

A rail is to be put up from the small west door of the cathedral to the west cloister door, to prevent the playing of ball there against the church wall.

1726, July 2.—The south east pinnacle tower, being very much decayed, shall be forthwith taken down and rebuilt.—fo. 12.

Another gravel walk to be made on the north side of the churchyard and a row of trees planted there, to match those on the south side.

Notice shall be given to the trustees appointed by the will of Mr. Philip Hodges, late of the city of Wells, deceased, that if they intend to make use of the house lately built by the said Mr. Hodges on the dean and chapter's ground within the liberty of the cathedral church, and now used as a charity school (for which purpose it was erected), that they apply to the dean and chapter before the next Lady Day, and accept from them a lease thereof for such a term and on such conditions as shall be then agreed on.—fo. 12d.

1726, July 16.—Thomas Camplin, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe III, on the death of Mr. Lessey, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 13.

Accounts of Edmund Archer, S.T.P., Communar, 1725–26.

Payments: 10l. to Mr. Marshal Brydges for the use of the school instituted for teaching poor children, ex gracia decani et capituli; 1l. 1s. to the governor of Mount Libanus, recommended by the dean and Dr. Creyghton; 10l. to Mr. Creyghton, the schoolmaster; 20l. to Mr. Broadrip, organist; 10s. to Symon Collins, the quirister, for the manuscript of magna charta, which his father presented to the library; 10s. to Mrs. Lessey's servant who brought the books which her husband gave by will to the library; 2s. 6d. to Mr. Gravil for inscribing the donation in the titles of those books; 5l. to the vicars of Close Hall to defray their expenses in repairing windows in the passage between the hall and the church; 3l. 6s. for 4 paper books in which the copies of the Parliament surveys are to be transcribed, and 10l. to Mr. Sutton for transcribing them.

Accounts of Edmund Archer, S.T.P., Keeper of the Fabric, 1725–26.

Receipts: Burials, William Sherston, gent., 1l. 6s. 8d. and 3s. 4d. for bell; Catherine dau. of William Baron, esq., the like; John Penny's wife, 13s. 4d.; the bishop's wife, 1l. 6s. 8d.; 3s. 4d. each for bell at burials of Joan Teek and Charles Penny's son.

Payments: 2s. 6d. for a key to the cloister gate over against the palace, for the bishop's use; 1l. 6s. for 6 new candlesticks, 2 for the dean's gallery, 2 for the canons' wives' gallery, and 2 for the "grates"; 2l. 17s. 2d. for ironwork of the new gate at the north door and for fastening the loose pinnacles of the great tower; removing the lime trees on the north side of the churchyard nearer the wall, various payments; 1s. to the men to drink when they sawed in sunder the thick stone over the place where Mr. Lessey was buried, which was afterwards used in mending the pavement of the church; 24l. 5s. 6d. to Mr. Cuff for fitting the hammer to the new clock bell and for mending the clock chimes and jacks; 12s. for two ropes for the bells in the pinnacle tower; gave the freemasons of Doulting to drink when they were framing the stones for the new pinnacle; 8l. 14s. for free-stone for the pinnacle and for labour; 11l. 1s. 6d. for taking down and putting up the south east pinnacle; 7l. 6s. 9d. for iron clamps for the new pinnacle and the old ones, and for bolts and other ironwork in hanging the 5 bells in Bishop Harewell's tower; 6d. for twine to bind the loose parchments in the muniment room and audit room; payments to the ringers on these occasions—Christmas, Feb. 6 (Queen Anne's birthday), March 8 (her "inauguration"), Easter, Whitsunday, May 28 (his majesty's birthday), May 29 (the restoration of Charles II), Aug. 1 (his majesty's inauguration), Oct. 20 (ditto coronation), Nov. 5.

1726–1727.

1726, Dec. 7.—Edmund Archer, S.T.P., installed in the archdeaconry of Wells, on the death of Henry Layng, S.T.P., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 16.

1726, Dec. 8.—George Atwood, S.T.B., installed in the archdeaconry of Taunton, on the resignation of Edmund Archer, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 17.

1726, Dec. 20.—John Potter, M.A., installed in the prebend of Whitchurch, on the resignation of George Atwood, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 18.

1726–7, Jan. 2.—Timothy Collins, M.A., appointed to the vicarage of Buckland Abbas, on the death of William Lyster; nominated by Dr. Rogers.

1726–7, Jan. 3.—Lawson Hudleston, M.A., prebendary of Wanstrow, elected a canon residentiary, on the death of Henry Layng, S.T.P., archdeacon of Wells; he paid 100 marks caution money; he is not to receive any commodity, except quotidians, nor to begin residence, before October 1 next.—fo. 20d.

1726–7, Jan. 4.—Certain sums in the accounts of the escheator, master of the fabric and communar, some of which had been carried forward from 1661, were ordered to be written off as irrecoverable.—fo. 22.

1726–7, Jan. 12.—Thomas Hunt, M.A., installed in the prebend of Whitelackington, on the resignation of John Potter, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 23.

1726–7, Feb. 13.—Thomas Gravill, one of the vicars-choral, appointed sub-treasurer of the cathedral church, on the death of William Broderip; nominated by Robert Woodford, LL.B., the treasurer.—fo. 24.

1726–7, Feb. 27.—William Evans admitted a vicar-choral for his year of probation, and appointed organist and master of the choristers in place of William Broderip, deceased, at a salary of 20l. a year as organist and the usual salaries and profits as such master.—fo. 24d.

1727, April 17.—The communar is ordered to pay until further order 7s. a week to Mrs. Broadrip [sic], widow of the late organist, for the support of herself and her 10 children.—fo. 27.

Charles Prowse, esq., is appointed clerk of the courts of the dean and chapter, and auditor, on the death of William Healy. Mr. Selleck, an attorney at Taunton, shall keep the next court at North Curry, in the absence of Mr. Prowse.—fo. 27d.

1727, May 13.—Samuel Coopey, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe XI, on the death of Wykes Huntley, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 28.

1727, July 1.—The communar is ordered to pay 10 guineas to the town clerk of the city of Wells, as a gift towards repairing the assize hall.—fo. 29.

Accounts of Edmund Archer, S.T.P., Communar, 1726–27.

Payments: 10s. to "Paul ben Hobbie, a native of Damascus, recommended by Mr. Dadichi [?], Professor of the Arabian language to the Society de propaganda fide at London, and by Gennadius, Archi-Mandrite of Alexandria, now residing in London"; 2s. 6d. to Dennis Cotar and 7 other Frenchmen of the Mermaid, cast away on the Isle of Man; 10l. to Mr. Brydges for the charity school; 10l. to Mr. Creyghton as schoolmaster and 2l. as librarian; 10l. to William Broderip, organist, half year; 10l. to William Evans, organist, half year; 2l. 2s. to Mr. Joseph Millard for playing the organ at Christmas, when Mr. Brodrip was sick, and, after his death, until the election of a new organist; 2l. 2s. to Richard Tucker for entering Mr. Lessy's books in the catalogue in the library, and for writing three tables, and making many alterations in the catalogue; 10s. to the late bishop's servants who brought the boxes of books given to the library from the palace to my house; 1l. 13s. to Mr. Nickells for pricking 33 sheets on the choir books; 2l. 2s. "for transcribing index's to the Parliament Survey in the Legier Book"; 2l. 2s. to Mr. Nooth "for inscribing the donation in the titles of the books given to the library by the late bishop, and for entring them in the parchment catalogue in the library."

Accounts of Edmund Archer, S.T.P., Keeper of the Fabric, 1726–27.

Receipts: Burials, Mrs. Cupper, and bell, 1l. 10s.; Mr. Burland's son, ditto; William Healy, esq., ditto; Mrs. Catherine Layng, ditto; bell for Mary Court, Dr. Creyghton's servant, 3s. 4d.; for Dr. Morris's grave, 1l. 6s. 8d; "for the marble stone over the grave of Mrs. Hooper, the bishop's lady," 8l.

Payments: 1l. 6s. for 26 lime trees, and various payments for planting them on the north side; 15s. to the ringers on the Princess of Wales's birthday; May 19, 19s. for washing the whole body of the church after the great rain, and for washing the "isles" of the church and fetching the water out of the Palm Churchyard; 1l. 0s. 6d. "for taking down the wall in the churchyard over against Mrs. Healy's and stopping up the old one at Brown's Gate; 13s. 6d. for raising the ground in the Lady Chapel where Bishop Button's coffin was taken up; June 26, 15s. to the ringers when the king was proclaimed; 6l. 4s. 5d. for the cloth of the judges' seat in the choir and for a new curtain over against the pulpit; July 31, 1s. 6d. for washing the north side of the church after the great rain; 1l. 5s. 2d. for repairing the boghouse at the grammar school and for raising the step at the north gate of the church to keep out the rain; 4s. for assisting to saw the great stones taken out of the bishop's grave; 19s. 3d. for levelling and mending the floor of the church and in bishop Bubbewith's chapel, and sawing the stones for that use; 1s. 6d. for cleaning the church after the storm of rain, Sept. 2.

1727–1728.

1727, Oct. 2.—Robert Creyghton, M.A., presented to the vicarage of Burnham, on the death of John Bewer; nominated by Dr. Creyghton.—fo. 31d.

1727, Oct. 7.—Mr. John Pope, the chancellor of the diocese, presented the king's conge d'elire on the death of the late Bishop George Hooper. The king's letter, dated Sept. 28, recommending Dr. John Wynne, bishop of St. Asaph, was read.—fo. 32.

1727, Oct. 13.—Election of Dr. Wynne as bishop of Bath and Wells.—fo. 34d.

1727, Nov. 23.—Dr. John Rogers, the sub-dean, elected proctor for the synod summoned for December 1st.—fo. 36d.

1727, Dec. 7.—Installation, induction and enthronization of Dr. Wynne as bishop.—fo. 38d.

1727, Dec. 13.—Appointment of Thomas Prowse of Wells, esq., as game-keeper or keeper of the game within the manors of Winscombe, Shipham and Bidisham, co. Somerset, with license and authority to keep and use any dogs or engines for taking and killing game; during the pleasure of the dean and chapter.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 398.]

1727–8, Jan. 5.—Mr. Creyghton, the master of the grammar school, having resigned, Mr. Brydges, the chancellor, nominated and presented John Gaylard, clerk, M.A.—fo. 40d.

1727–8, Jan. 27.—John Creed, S.T.P., installed in the prebend of East Harptry, on the death of John Taylor, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 41.

1727–8, Jan. 31.—Dr. Archer, archdeacon of Wells, appointed keeper of the library.—fo. 41d.

1727–8, March 23.—Francis Franklyn, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe II, on the death of John Perry, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 42d.

1728, June 16.—Ordered that the partition in the library room be taken down for enlarging the same, by adding thereto three desks or places for the reception of the books given by the late lord bishop Hooper.—fo. 44.

1728, June 18.—Roger Humphreys, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe X, on the death of John Rio, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 44d.

1728, July 1.—John Gaylard, M.A., admitted as school-master.—fo. 45.

1728, Aug. 26.—Roger Humphreys, M.A., installed as chancellor of the cathedral church, on the death of Marshal Brydges.—fo. 47d.

1728, Aug. 27.—John Pope, M.A., installed in the prebend of St. Decuman, on the death of Marshall Brydges, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 48.

Robert Creyghton, M.A., installed in the prebend of Timberscomb, on the resignation of John Pope, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 48d.

1728, Aug. 31.—Richard Healy, M.A., installed in the prebend of Dinder, on the resignation of Robert Creyghton, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 49.

1728, Aug. 30.—Roger Humphreys, the chancellor, elected a canon residentiary; he paid 100l. caution money. He shall not receive any commodity (except quotidians) nor begin residence before October 1, 1729.—fo. 50d.

1728, Sept. 10.—Guy Clinton, N.P., and John Wynne, gent., are appointed to the office of registrar to the bishop and scribe of the acts to the bishop, for their lives and that of the survivor.—fo. 52.

Accounts of John Rogers, S.T.P., Communar, 1727–28.

Payments: 10l. to Mr. Brydges for the charity school; 5l. to Mr. Creyghton, the schoolmaster, half year, and 10s. as librarian, one quarter; 10l. to Mr. Gaylard, the schoolmaster, half year; 30s. to Dr. Archer, librarian, three quarters; 10l. to Mr. Gutch, a gift of the dean and chapter towards repairing the Town [?] house for the reception of the judges.

Accounts of John Rogers, S.T.P., Keeper of the Fabric, 1727–28.

Receipts: Burials; 13s. 4d. Mrs. Webb, 10s. Mr. Oglethorp, 1l. 10s. Mr. Baron, 1l. 6s. 8d. Mrs. Kidder.

Payments: To the ringers, 1l. at the coronation, 1l. for the lord bishop, 1l. for the king's birthday, 1l. Nov. 5; 1l. 1s. to Mr. Evans for a funeral service; 15l. to Mr. Fry for painting and repairing the horologe; 16s. to Dr. Archer for anthems from Oxford; 8l. 8s. for 12 common prayer books.

1728–1729.

1728, Oct. 1.—Moses Foster, B.A., presented to the vicarage of Long Sutton, on the death of Christopher Westerdale; nominated by Mr. Humphries.—fo. 54.

1728, Dec. 16.—John Paine junior, the chapter clerk, appointed sub-commoner and under-master of the fabric.—fo. 54d.

1728–9, Jan. 2.—William Watts appointed clerk of the cathedral, on the death of William Lane; nominated by Mr. Robert Woodford, the treasurer.—fo. 56d.

1729, June 3.—Timothy Collins, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe VII, on the death of John Rogers, S.T.P., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 61.

1729, June 18.—Timothy Collins installed as sub-dean, on the death of John Rogers, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 61d.

1729 June 19.—The canonical house vacant by the death of Dr. Rogers, was given to Mr. Collins, the sub-dean; [the house on the east side of the Canon Barn, fo. 65].—fo. 64.

1729, June 20.—Timothy Collins admitted a canon residentiary, on the death of John Rogers; he paid 100 marks; he is not to receive any commodity, except quotidians, nor begin his residence before Oct. 1, 1720.—fo. 62d.

Accounts of John Rogers, S.T.P., and John Jenkins, M.A., Communars, 1728–29.

Payments: 10l. to the charity school; 10l. to Mr. Gaylard, the schoolmaster; 2l. to Dr. Archer, librarian; 10s. to the boys that declaimed at the Grammar School, Feb. 20; 14s. 6d. for 2 of Dr. Aldrick's anthems from Oxford; 4s. for binding Dr. Bernard's Josephus; 5s. for carrying bishop Hooper's books from Dr. Archer's house to the library; 5s. for wax used to seal the instruments relating to the election of the bishop.

Accounts of John Rogers, S.T.P., deceased, and John Jenkins, M.A., Keepers of the Fabric, 1728–29.

Receipts: Burials, 1l. 10s. Mr. Clinton and bell, 1l. 10s. Mrs. Cooper and bell, 1l. Mrs. Paine.

Payments: 10l. to Mr. Fry for painting the west window; 65l. 5s. 5d. to Thomas Parfitt for enlarging the library.

1729–1730.

1729, Oct. 25.—John Wynne, notary public, and Peter Davis junior, gent., appointed registrars to the bishop for their lives and the life of the survivor.—fo. 68d.

1729–30, Jan. 2.—John Tottenham, M.A., presented to the vicarage of Chedder, and to the rectory or chapelry of Allerton, on the death of Mr. Aris; nominated by Dr. Archer.—fo. 70d.

1729–30, Jan. 12.—John Chorley appointed clerk of the cathedral, on the death of William Watts; nominated by Mr. Woodford, the treasurer.—fo. 72d.

1730, April 1.—The salary of James Curtis, the first clerk, to be increased to 8l., as from Oct. 1 last; "the said James Curtis disclaiming all pretensions of providing surprices [sic] for the prebendarys when they attend the service of the church."—fo. 74.

1730, May 29.—The executors of Dr. Morris, late deceased, are hereby permitted to erect a monument for him (now lodged in this church) at the east end of the altar against the door there, opposite the grave where the said Dr. Morris lies interred, his said executors making good and repairing all damages that may happen on that account, and also at their own charge and expense putting up another door in the place and stead of that which on this occasion will be stopped up, in some other place, for the passage to the back part of the altar, as the dean and chapter shall appoint.—fo. 74d.

1730, June 16.—John Wicksted, B.A., installed in the prebend of Combe VIII, on the death of Eldridge Aris, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 75.

1730, July 31.—Edmund Lovell, M.A., installed in the prebend of Wedmore II, on the death of Matthew Hole, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 76d.

Accounts of John Jenkins, M.A., Keeper of the Fabric and Communar, 1729–30.

It is agreed that the keeping of two sets of accounts is useless and inconvenient, and that henceforth the same person shall execute both offices and keep one set of accounts.

Receipts: Burials, 1l. 10s. Mrs. Katherine Thompson and bell, 10s. Mrs. Northcott and bell (in the cloister), 16s. 8d. Mr. Kingston and bell, 1l. 10s. Mrs. Prestwood and bell.

Payments: 10l. to Mr. Gravill for the charity school; 5l. for the church Bible; 5l. 11s. for new pricking Dr. Aldrich's and Dr. Creyghton's services which were stolen out of the church; 1l. 1s. to the scholars at the Lent exercises; 6d. to the bellman for crying the stolen choir-books.

1730–1731.

1730–1, Jan. 19.—The communer is to pay Mr. Cobb of Winscomb 10l. towards the charity school intended to be set up in that parish, in case the design thereof goes on.—fo. 82d.

1730–1, Jan. 20.—Thomas Ford, M.A., installed in the prebend of St. Decuman, on the death of John Pope, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 83.

1730–1, Jan. 25.—Charles Gardiner, S.T.B., installed in the prebend of Wedmore IV, on the resignation of Thomas Ford, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 83d.

1730–1, Feb. 1.—Thomas Eyre, M.A., appointed vicar-general of the bishop, for life.—fo. 84.

1731, May 6.—Charles Gardiner, prebendary of Wedmore IV, installed in the canonical house in the east part of the liberty, late in the occupation of John Jenkins, canon residentiary, deceased.—fo. 87.

Charles Gardiner, prebendary of Wedmore IV, elected a canon residentiary; he paid 100 marks caution money; he is not to receive any commodity (except quotidians) nor to begin residence, before Oct. 1, 1732.—fo. 88.

Accounts of John Jenkins, M.A., Keeper of the Fabric and Communar, to May 7, 1731.

Receipts: Burials, 10s. Mr. John Pope (in the cloister) and bell, 16s. 8d. Mr. Francis Day and bell.

Payments: 10l. to Mr. Gravil for the charity school; 3l. 9s. 6d. to Mr. Evans, the organist, for a new service by him composed, and approved by Dr. Creyghton, and by his direction entered in the choir books.

John Jenkins and Lawson Hudleston, M.A., to sept. 29, 1731.

Receipts: Burials, 10s. Mr. Judge (in the cloister) and bell; various payments for digging gravel in the churchyard, planting trees in the new walk, watering them and filling up the gravel pit; 1l. to the boys of the grammar school, "at speaking their public exercise," July 5.

1731–1732.

1731, Oct. 16.—Francis White, M.A., installed in the prebend of Combe XII, on the death of John Jenkins, M.A., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 92.

1731, Oct. 27.—Thomas Jenkins, M.A., installed in the prebend of Milverton II, on the death of Samuel Farthing, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 93.

1731–2, March 6.—Matthew Evans appointed clerk of the cathedral church, on the death of John Charley; nominated by Robert Woodford, LL.B., the treasurer.—fo. 95.

1732, April 1.—Ordered that within a month from this time the dean and chapter will meet and consult about the defect in the arch over the body of the church, where it appears to be spread and widened; notice to be given to the absent canons.—fo. 96.

Complaints were made that Mr. Eyre, the bishop's chancellor, had been granting marriage licenses within the peculiars of the dean and chapter and the archdeaconry of Wells.—fo. 96d.

1732, April 22.—Mr. Ford, one of the priest-vicars, stated that on Tuesday last Mr. Eyre, the bishop's chancellor, told him that he had already forbid Mr. Lovell and Mr. Franklyn, two other priest-vicars, to marry any person in the cathedral but by license from the bishop, and that he then forbade him (Ford) marrying any persons by virtue of any license from the dean and chapter, or any other but the bishop, under the penalty of suspension for three years, denying that the dean or dean and chapter had any authority for granting licenses. Mr. Lovell testified to the same effect. The priest-vicars were instructed to continue marrying on licenses from the dean or dean and chapter, as they had usually done.—fo. 97d.

1732, May 25.—Stephen Hunt, B.A., appointed to the vicarage of North Curry, with the chapel of West Hatch, on the death of Ezra Peirce; nominated by Dr. Hunt.—fo. 98d.

The roof of the nave is in some danger, if not speedily repaired; the master of the fabric is empowered to take steps to secure the same.

Accounts of Lawson Hudleston, M.A., Keeper of the Fabric and Communar, 1731–32.

Receipts: Burials, 1l. 10s. Capt. Maxwell and bell, 10s. Mr. Jenkins and bell, 1l. 6s. 8d. Mr. Chancellor Eyre's child, no bell, 16s. 8d. Mrs. Kingston and bell, 10s. Mr. Westley's child and bell, 13s. 4d. Mr. Penny, 3s. 4d. bell for Mr. Urch's [?] child.

Payments: 12s. for 3 yew trees and planting them in the Palm Churchyard.

1732–1733.

1732, Nov. 16.—Notice is to be given to Mr. Hughes, the lessee of the parsonage of South Barrow, to repair the chancel of the parish church forthwith.—fo. 103.

Robert Woodford, LL.B., the treasurer, is admitted a canon residentiary, on the death of Charles Gardiner; he paid 100l. caution money; he shall not have any commodity, except quotidians, nor begin his residence before Oct. 1, 1733.—fo. 103d.

1732–3, Jan. 10.—Robert Creyghton, M.A., installed in the prebend of Timberscomb, on the death of Robert Creyghton, [D.D.], pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 106. 1732–3, Jan. 15.—William Harris, B.A., presented to the vicarage of Burnham, on the death of Robert Creyghton; nominated by the dean.—fo. 106d.

1732–3, Jan. 26.—Laurence Saintlo, S.T.P., installed in the prebend of Wedmore IV, on the death of Charles Gardiner, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 107.

1732–3, Feb. 8.—Francis White, M.A., installed in the prebend of Wormestre, on the death of Richard Codrington, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 107d.

1732–3, Feb. 20.—The consent of the chapter given to a bill now depending in parliament for inclosing the fields, downs and common grounds in the tithings of Buckland, Newton, Mintern parva and Knowle, in the parish of Buckland Abbas, co. Dorset.—fo. 108.

1732–3, Feb. 23.—Robert Farne (?) and John Dounny (?) appointed attorneys to attend before the committees of both houses of Parliament, and to give the consent of the dean and chapter to a bill, now depending, for inclosing and dividing the common fields, downs and common grounds in the tithings of Buckland, Newton, Minterne Parva and Knowle, in the parish of Buckland Newton alias Buckland Abbas, co. Dorset.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 580.]

1733, July 12.—John Baily, M.A., installed in the prebend of the Twelfth Combe, on the resignation of Francis White, D.D., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 111d.

1733, Sept. 5.—Lawson Hudleston, M.A., installed in the archdeaconry of Bath, on the death of William Hunt, D.D.—fo. 112.

Mr. Sub-dean [Timothy] Collins collated to the canonical house on the west part of Canon Barn, late in the possession of William Hunt, D.D., archdeacon of Bath, deceased.—fo. 112d.

Accounts of Lawson Hudleston, M.A., Keeper of the Fabric and Communar, 1732–33.

Receipts: Burials, 1l. 10s. Mr. Creyghton's daughter and bell, 1l. 10s. Mr. Creyghton and bell, 1l. 10s. Mr. Paine and bell, 10s. Stephen Grinder (in the cloister) and bell, 1l. 10s. Mrs. White and bell, 1l. 10s. Mr. Burland's child and bell, 1l. 10s. Mrs. Prowse and bell; 1l. 2s. 6d. to Mr. Evans, the organist, for anthems and a large organ-book; 2l. 9s. to Mr. Penny for new making one of the verges; 2l. 2s. to two priests from Constantinople, begging alms for the redemption of Christian slaves in Turkey; 8l. 8s. to Mr. Ireton for surveying the roof of the church, having been sent for to that purpose.

1733–1734.

1733, Oct. 1.—Francis White, D.D., admitted a canon residentiary; he paid 100 marks caution money; he shall not receive any profit, except quotidians, nor begin his residence before Oct. 1, 1734.—fo. 116d.

1733, Oct. 2.—Mr. Treasurer [Robert] Woodford collated to the canonical house on the east part of Canon Barn, late voided by Mr. Subdean Collins, [formerly in the tenure of John Rogers, D.D., deceased]; and Dr. White to the canonical house on the east part of the liberty, lately voided by Mr. Woodford. [Also Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 598.]—fo. 117d.

1733, Nov. 6.—Nicholas Baker, M.A., installed in the prebend of Ilton, on the death of William Hunt, D.D., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 118d.

1733, Nov. 7.—Mr. Humphries, chancellor and canon ***residentiary, presented to the vicarage of Bishop's Lydeard, on the death of Mr. Geale; nominated by Mr. Treasurer Woodford.—fo. 120.

1733, Dec. 5.—Mr. Ireton, master builder, to have 8 guineas for surveying the roof of the church.—fo. 121.

1733–4, Jan. 8.—Isaac Maddox, D.D., installed in the deanery of Wells, vacant by the death of Matthew Brailsford, D.D., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 122.

1733–4, Jan. 11.—Dr. Maddox, the dean, admitted a canon residentiary; he paid 100l. caution money; he shall not receive any profit, except quotidians, nor begin his residence before Oct. 1, 1734.—fo. 123.

1733–4, Jan. 12.—An intimation is to be fixed on the door of the library belonging to this church that unless the books now taken out of it be returned and brought back in a fortnight, a new lock will be put on the door. No person who is allowed a key to the said library shall for the future take any books out of it without first acknowledging, under hand, the borrowing of such book or books, in a paper book to be kept by the librarian for that purpose.—fo. 124.

1733–4, March 9.—James Knight installed in the dignity of the precentorship, on the death of Robert Creyghton, D.D., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 126d.

1734, April 1.—George Bryan, clerk, M.A., appointed schoolmaster of the dean and chapter's school within the liberty of St. Andrew, on the resignation of Mr. John Gaylard; nominated by Mr. Chancellor Humphries.—fo. 128.

1734, June 13.—Mr. Chancellor Humphries appointed proctor of the dean and chapter, to appear in their name in the chapter house of St. Paul's Cathedral on June 21st.—fo. 128d.

1734, July 2.—Lease to James, Duke of Chandos, etc., for 3 lives, of the rectory of St. Cuthbert, Wells.—[Ledger, 1701–1739, p. 614.]

1734, July 5.—Ordered that Mr. Dean be desired to write to such of the dignitaries and prebendaries of the church as exercise ecclesiastical jurisdiction and claim liberty to prove wills, having no known nor certain registers nor public place to keep their records in, forthwith to exhibit into the registry of the dean and chapter of Wells every original testament, remaining with them or their notary, of every person deceased and by them proved in their several peculiar jurisdictions, or true copies of every such testament, examined, subscribed and sealed by the peculiar judge and his notary, and to continue so to do from year to year, as by the 126 canon is directed. A press for the safe custody of such wills and testaments is to be erected in the north end of the audit-room or registry of the dean and chapter.—fo. 130d.

The chapter clerk is to draw up a schedule of all the churches and parishes that are under the peculiar jurisdiction of the dean, the dean and chapter, or the dignitaries and prebendaries, and to deliver it to the bishop's register or his deputy, so that they may not through ignorance be any ways accessory to the infringement thereof.

1734, July 6.—Hasting Lloyd, M.A., installed in the prebend of Compton Dundon, on the resignation of Thomas Eyre, pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 131.

1734, Aug. 10.—Robert Wake, M.A., installed in the prebend of Yatton, on the death of Robert Creyghton, D.D., pursuant to mandate of the bishop.—fo. 132d.

1734, Sept. 14.—Francis Squire, M.A., installed in the prebend of Warmister, on the death of James Taylor.—fo. 134.

Accounts of Roger Humphries, M.A., Keeper of the Fabric and Communar, 1733–34.

Receipts: Burials, 10s. Mr. Marchant's wife and bell, 1l. 3s. 4d. Mr. Brown and bell.

Payments: 2l. 2s. to Dositheus, a monk from Mount Athos; 2l. 2s. to the archbishop of Nicosia in the kingdom of Cyprus; 10l. to Mr. Bryan, the schoolmaster; 1l. 4s. for work about the cloisters and the school vault; 13s. for carriage of stone and sand "for the bason in the churchyard."