Charters: Nos. 1-100 (958-1284)

WELLS CATHEDRAL CHARTERS.

1. 958.—Grant by Eadgar, King of the Mercians, for 40 mancusœ of gold, to Ealhstane, his thegn, of six hides of land (rus sex manentium) in St´ntún, in the territory of Magesætæ; with the Saxon boundaries. Dated A.D. 958. Indict. i, 2nd year of the king. Witnesses: Many bishops, earls and thegns.

(Printed in Fac-similes of Anglo-Saxon MSS., vol. II, Wells.)

2. 1061, Ap. 25.—Confirmation by Pope Nicholas [II] to Giso, bishop of Wells [Willensis] of the bishopric and all its possessions, scilicet ipsum episcopatum cum omnibus rebus et possessionibus suis ac pertinentiis, mobilibus et inmobilibus seseque moventibus, castris, casis, villis, territoriis, œcclesiis, cum primitiis, et decimationibus, et cum omnibus quœ ei pia devotio fidelium sacris contulerit oblationibus, &c. Dated vii Kal. Mai, MLXI, by the hand of Humbert, Sanctœ Æcclesiœ Silvœ Candidœ Episcopi, et Apostolicœ Sedis bybliothecarii, anno III pontificatus domini Papœ Nicholai secundi. Indict. xiiii.
(Printed in Hickes's Thesaurus, vol. I, p. 176.)

3. 1090–1, Jan. 27.—Foundation charter of William [II], son of King William, and "Monarch of Britain," granting the abbey of St. Peter, Bath, to John [de Villula] the bishop, in augmentation of the bishopric of Somerset. Dated at Dover, 6 Kal. Feb., 1090, with a clause setting forth that the grant was originally made at Winchester, A.D. 1088. Subscribed by many ecclesiastics and laymen. Cƒ. vol. I, p. 12.

4. Copy of No. 3.

5. [1136–1165.]—Statute made by Rodbert, bishop of Bath, respecting the disposition of the fruits of a prebend falling vacant, viz. two thirds to go to the surviving canons, for one year, they celebrating debitas exequias the whole of that year for the deceased brother; the other third to go according to the will of the deceased canon or to pay his debts; and enjoining that no canon should diminish or deteriorate his prebend for the sake of relationship or propinquity, and should in no wise turn the land of the rustics into free service for the sake of private friendship [terram rusticorum nullatenus aliter privata amicitia vel servicio vertat in liberum servicium]. [Repaired in medieval times, and some missing words supplied on a marginal slip.]

6. [1150–1165.]—Statute made by Robert, bishop of Bath, prohibiting the holding of fairs in the church or the atrium thereof. Cƒ. vol. I, p. 430.

(Printed in Archœologia, vol. 2, p. 350. Cƒ. Church's Early History of the Church of Wells, pp. 29, 359–362.)

7. 1164.—Appointment by Louis [VII], king of the French, of Reynold, archdeacon of Salisbury, to the abbacy of St. Exuperius at Corbeil. Dated at Melun, 1164. Astantibus in palatio, Count Theobald, the king's dapifer, Matthew the chamberlain, Guy the butler, &c. With the monogram of Hugh the chancellor.

(Printed in Archœologia, vol. 2, p. 348; Church, op. cit., p. 357.)

8. [1174–1191.]—Grant by Reynold, bishop of Bath, to the canons of St. Andrew's, Wells, of their grange or barn [bertonam], free of all service, and especially of the rent of 12 coins [nummorum] which they paid to us yearly. Cƒ. vol I, p. 27.

9. [1174–1191.]—Certificate by Rainaud, bishop of Bath, of a sale in the bishop's court, in the presence of Master Ralph de Lichelade, bishop's steward, by Walter the Baker of Bath, with the consent of all his heirs, namely, Ralph, Ernald, William and Robert, of his land at Lanserleg, to Edward de Wellis and Hugh his heir, and all his heirs, for 5 marks to Walter, and 2s. divided between his heirs in court. Upon oath made by the said Walter that the original charter of the land to him by Robert [of Lewes] late bishop of Bath, was burned; the sale ratified by the bishop, saving the original rent of 3s. yearly due to the bishop for all service. Witnesses: Master Ralph de Lichel[ade], archdeacon of Bath, Richard, archdeacon of Coutances, Master Robert de Geldeford, Joceline the chaplain, Robert de Sancto Laudo, Sigrim, and others [named].

Pointed oval seal of the bishop, with smaller counter seal of the same.

10. [1184–1188.]—Inspeximus and confirmation by —— of a grant by [Ralph] de Wilton, with the assent of Henry and William, his heirs, of all his land of Wellis, to Edward de Well', and his heirs by hereditary right, of the donor and his heirs, at a rent of 10s. yearly; Edward gave 50s. to the donor, a golden brooch to Wimarc, the donor's wife, and 6d. each to Henry and William, the donor's sons. Witnesses: Master Alexander, subdean of Wells, Master Ralph de Lichel[ade], Robert Fitz-Payn, sheriff of Somerset, Richard de Mucegros, William son of Osbert, Gerard de Broct[on], and others [named]. Witnesses of the confirmation: Master Alexander, subdean of Wells, Peter de Wint[on], Joceline the chaplain, Master Roger, Matthias de Wint[on], Ralph Sansaver (sine avero), and others [named].

Mutilated at the top.

11. [Ante 1196.]—Confirmation by John, count of Mortain, of a grant by Reynold, bishop of Bath, of the manor of Nordcuri, with the church of the same vill and the land of Hacche, to St. Andrew's, Wells.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 7.

12. [cir. Hen. II-Ric. I.]—Grant by Walter de Dunhefde, with the consent of his wife and heirs, to Adam de Lecton, and his heirs and whomsoever he shall make heir, of an acre of land in Wells near the latter's house, on the north side, paying 12d. yearly for all service. Witnesses: Thomas, the bishop's nephew, Ralph his brother, Master Miles, Richard Walensis, Gilbert son of Hastesil [?], and others [named].

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 29.

13. [cir. late Hen. II-John. ]—Grant by Walter de Dunheved, to Walter son of Herevey, his clerk, and his heirs, for his service, of a messuage lately held by Orderic Blund, on the east of the grantor's garden, with all his croft in Wells, paying yearly 18d. for all service. In recognition of this gift Walter [son of Herevey] has given a pair of gilt spurs to the grantor, and a pair of silver spurs to his son and heir Ernisius. Witnesses: Master Alexander, dean of Wells, Thomas, subdean, William de Dinra, Hugh son of Edward, Goceline his brother, Thomas de Cicestria, William son of Richard, Matthew de Tormerton, Leobert, William de Welleslia, Reynold de Wudeford, and others [named].

14. [1199,] Ap. 17.—Writ of John, Lord of England, notifying the knights and free tenants of the hundred of Nordcuri and the men of the same manor, of the grant to the canons of St. Andrew's, Wells, of the manor of Nordcuri, the advowson of the church, the land of Hacche, and the hundred, etc. Dated at Beauford, 17 April.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 8.

15. 1199, Sept. 30.—Charter of King John confirming the said grant as made by King Richard and himself while count of Mortain. Witnesses: Geoffrey, archbishop of York, Roger, bishop of St. Andrew's, Earl David, William, earl of Arundel, William de Humetis, constable of Normandy, Hugh de Gornay. Dated at Le Mans, 30 Sept., 1 John.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 6.

16. [1198–1199.]—Agreement between William, abbat, and the convent of Bee [in Normandy], and S[avaric], bishop of Bath and Glastonbury, and the dean and chapter of Wells, with regard to the church of Cliva [Cleeve].

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 489.

17. 1199.—Recital and ratification by Hubert [Walter], archbishop of Canterbury, of a grant by William, abbat, and the convent of Bee [in Normandy], with the assent of Savaric, bishop of Bath, and the dean and chapter of Wells, of St. Andrew's church at Cliva [Cleeve, Somerset], a prebend of Wells, to the abbat and monks of Cleeve, at a yearly rent of 44 marks to the said abbat and convent of Bee. Dated 1199, in the presence of Hubert, archbishop of Canterbury, Godfrey, archdeacon of Cambray, Simon, archdeacon of Wells, and others [named].

18. [1199–1216.]—Undertaking upon oath by Robert de Veteri Ponte to his lord, John, King of England, that neither he nor his heirs will use or show the charter which the said king made to him concerning Appelby and Burgh, so long as the king shall live, except with his consent. Witnesses: William de Brahosa, Hugh de Welles, Colin.

19. [cir. 1203.]—Recital by E[ustace], bishop of Ely, Stampson de Botington], abbat of St. Edmunds, and G[eoffrey], prior of Holy Trinity, Canterbury, of a commission directed to them by Pope Innocent [III], dated Velletri, viij kal. Oct., anno V of his pontificate, to settle the terms between the bishop of Bath and Glastonbury and the monastery of Glastonbury, respecting the disposition of the revenues of the latter, the custody of the seal, &c.; and the award so made in pursuance of the same.
(Printed in Hearne's Adam of Domerham.)

20. 1213, March 28.—Letters of commendation from Innocent [III] to [Jocelin], bishop of Bath, on behalf of a poor scholar of his diocese, who has been relieved by the pope of irregularity incurred by receiving minor orders when excommunicate, for that, when acting as teacher of his school-fellows he beat them for the purpose of extorting money, and also laid violent hands on other clergy. He has been absolved from the excommunication by the abbat of St. Victor. Dated at the Lateran, 5 kal. April, in the 16th year of his pontificate.

21. [cir. 1214.]—Grant by Walter de Dunhefde, to Adam de Hereford, chaplain, of a moiety of a messuage (which Adam with my consent has bought from William the clerk, son of William the chaplain of Hornigedun) and land in Paulesham and Hornigedun, to hold to Adam and his heirs, paying yearly ¼lb. of cummin for all service except royal service. Witnesses: Thomas, precentor of Wells, Simon, succentor of Wells, Master William de Dinra, Henry de Traci, and others [named], and the whole hundred of Wells.

22. 1214, July 11.—Grant by Hugh, bishop of Lincoln, to Josceline, bishop of Bath and Glastonbury, in frank almoign, of half a knight's fee in Rugeberg and Draycot, &c.

Cƒ. vol. I, pp. 471–2.

23. [cir. early Hen. III.]—Confirmation by Lambert, sub-dean, and Richard de Wells, canons of Wells, executors and orderers [ordinatores] of the will of Master Adam Lok, mason, of a release by Thomas Lok, son and heir of Master Adam Lok, and Agnes, his relict, to Sir Roger de Chiwetun, chaplain of Josceline, bishop of Bath, of the houses and lands, &c., of the said Adam in the town of Wells.

Cƒ. vol. I, pp. 35–6.

24. 1219–20, March 9.—Speronus de Campomoldo of Piacenza, appoints Rufinus Molinarius, his proctor, to demand and recover 87½ marks from the bishop of Bath and Glastonbury, for which the late bishop Savaric had given pledge of his goods and his church. Dated, 1219, 8 Indict., Monday, 9 March. In the Major Ecclesia of Piacenza. Witnesses: Gerard, advocate, John de Artusio, John Blanchcour, Albert de Ardito of Macenaxium [?], John Cavali of Ospedaletto [Hospitaletum].

Attested by the notarial signum of John Azo, notary of the Sacred Palace; and the confirmation of Vi[cedominus], bishop of Piacenza, etc.

25. [cir. 1217–1228.]—Grant by Mark, prior, and the convent of Montacute, Somerset, to Joscelin, bishop of Bath, of the advowson of Modiford, with all revenues, except tithes of demesne lands so long as they shall not be granted to others, which lands are named Bernardescroft, Binthehegh, Binthebury, Estinlond, Blakepol, Middelfurlang, La Sulue, and others. Witnesses: William [de Bardenay], archdeacon of Wells, Walter de St. Quintin, Henry, parson of Tintehull, Robert de Aula. Dated in the chapter house of Montacute, Michaelmas Day.

26. [cir. 1192–1205.]—Award by John, abbat of Ford, Humphrey, prior of Ford, and Baldwin, prior of Axem' [Axmouth], papal commissioners in a cause between Alexander, dean, and the chapter of Wells, on the one part, and Ernisius, canon of Wells, on the other part, concerning his prebend of Bideham.

See the terms of the award in vol. I, p. 50.

27. 1222–3, Feb. 19.—Institution by Richard, bishop of Salisbury, upon the presentation of Robert de Mandeville, knt., of Master Hugh de Greneford, clerk, to the living of Wytchurch, Dorset. Dated at New Sarum, by the hand of John the chaplain, xi kal. Mar., in the 5th year of the said Richard's pontificate.
Part of the bishop's seal remains.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 527.

28. [1224.—Inspeximus and confirmation of the award of [Richard Le Poer], bishop of Salisbury, respecting the living of Whitchurche and the tithes of Wudeton Chapel. Dated 1224, by the hand of Robert, chancellor of Salisbury.

Imperfect. Cf. vol. I, p. 522.

29. [cir. early Hen. III.]—Grant and quitclaim by Walter de Dunhieved and Walter de Wyka to Joscelin, bishop of Bath, of their land, &c., within the close of Wells park and elsewhere.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 477; Church, Early History, &c., p. 204.

30. 1229, Sept.—Agreement between Roger de Chyton, chaplain of Jocelin, bishop of Bath, and Thomas Lock and Agnes his mother. Thomas and Agnes grant to Roger, and his heirs or attorneys, the houses which they had in Wells, with ½ acre near Stoberg, late of Master Adam Lok, mason, for 10 marks, viz. 5 paid in hand and 5 to be paid in the chapter at Wells at the end of the tenth year after the consecration of Master Richard, archbishop of Canterbury, subject to the deduction of any money that might be expended of necessity in the meanwhile in defending and safeguarding the said houses and land. They have delivered to Roger in the full hundred [court] of Wells all charters relating to the premises, and these are now lodged, by consent of both parties, in the treasury of Wells, in the custody of Master Lambert, the subdean, and Sir Richard de Wells, canon of Wells, who will hand them over on payment of the money in full.

Sealed with their seals, and at their request with the seals of Master Lambert, subdean of Wells, and Sir Richard de Wells, canon of Wells. Witnesses: Lambert, subdean of Wells, William, steward of Jocelin, bishop of Bath, Richard de Wells, canon of Wells, Walter de Bridioport, Godfrey de Sutton, Simon de Slimbrigg, vicars of Wells, Thomas Norais [and] Deodatus, masons, and Thomas Magot. Dated at Wells, Sept., 1229, in the tenth year of the Translation of St. Thomas the Martyr, and the first of the pontificate of Richard, archbishop of Canterbury.

Cƒ. vol. I, pp. 35–36.

31. 1231, Dec.—Inspeximus and confirmation by Robert, bishop of Salisbury, of an award made in Dec., 1231, by H[enry], abbat of Syreburn, Master W. de Button, and Master Philip de St. David, in a cause between Hugh de Greneford, rector of Witechurch in Dorsetya, and the abbat and convent of Abbedesbiry, concerning the tithes of Wdeton; and also of a charter of Robert de Mandeville, patron of the church of Witechurch, ratifying the same.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 524.

32. 1235–6, Jan. 13.—Roger, parson of Chyuton, canon of Wells, with the consent of Peter, dean, and the chapter of Wells, ordains that his houses in Wells, late of Master Peter Canutus, shall be held after his death by a canon of Wells for life, with power of appointment, paying 3d. yearly to the chapter of Wells and 12d. to the lord of the fee, and 10s. every year on the anniversary of my death for an obit; power to the dean and chapter to appoint on the like conditions to another canon on the death of the first. Dated, Id. Jan., 1235.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 37.

33. 1235–6, Jan. 12.—Grant by Peter, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Roger the Chaplain, their co-canon, of houses in Wells, lately of Master Peter Canutus, upon certain terms. Dated Pridie Idus Jan., 1235.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 37.

34. 1237, May 1.—Grant by Josceline, bishop of Bath, to the dean and canons of Wells, in augmentation of their commons, of the church of Cungersbyri, with its chapels, to be held by them, reserving the right to appoint a vicar; the parson's court [curia persone] to belong to the dean and canons. Dated at Wells, by the hands of Master Walter de Maydenest[an], on the feast of St. Philip and St. James, apostles, in the 31st year of the grantor's pontificate.

Cƒ. vol. I, p. 49.

35. cir. 1230.—Grant by Helias the Chaplain, canon of Wells, to the chapter of Wells, of a manse in Wells called "Muntoria," paying yearly to Walter de Wika 12d. for all service and to John de Cardunvilla and Mirabel his sister and their heirs, 2d. It is not to be sold, but one canon after another is to reside there at a yearly rent of 13s. 4d. to be divided among the canons and vicars present at service on the day of the anniversary of the grantor.

Witnesses: Sir Peter de Chichester, dean of Wells, William, precentor, Master Aelard, chancellor, Master Richard, treasurer, Master Lambert, subdean, Robert de Camera, succentor, Richard de Wells, Master Robert de Berkelai, Ralph de Lidiard, Richard de Attebere, Richard de Cobbeham, canons of Wells, Adam de Hereford, William Luveseft, [and others], vicars, John the reeve of Wells, Walter the chamberlain, [and others].

36. cir. 1206–1242.—Grant by Katherine, late the wife of Henry de Waltham, to Sir Roger de Chiwton, chaplain of Joceline, bishop of Bath, of the third (falling to her as dower) of houses and land in Wells, which she abjures before the hundred [court] of Wells, for 4s.

Witnesses: Walter, the chamberlain, Laurence the reeve, John the dispenser, Adam Hub, James Arug, William Bucb', Thomas Magot.

37. cir. 1209.—Ratification by Walter Hosatus of Wika, of the sale which Ailric the smith made to Henry de Traci, of land which belonged to Osmund de Aqua in Wells, which he held of Walter de Dunheafde, to hold to Henry and his heirs or those whom he shall appoint his heirs, of Walter and his heirs, paying 15d. yearly for all service pertaining to Walter. If the bishop of Bath shall take a gift from his free burgesses, then Henry shall give Walter 15d.

Witnesses: Joceline, bishop of Bath, Alexander, dean, Master Ralph de Lichelade, precentor of Wells, Thomas de Dinan, subdean, Thomas de Tornacho, succentor, Master Roger de Sanford, Stephen de Tornacho, Simon de Cumton, Master W. de Dinra, and Peter de Chichester, canons of Wells, Roger and Helyas, chaplains of the bishop, Nicholas and Roger, chaplains, Walter the chamberlain, [and others].

38. cir. 1231–1238.—Grant by William the chaplain, proctor of the hospital of St. Bartholomew, London, and the brethren and sisters thereof, to Josceline, bishop of Bath, of 10s. quit-rent, which he used to pay to the said hospital yearly for part of his messuage, in the parish of St. Clement de Denissemannecherch, on the south of the church towards the Thames, paying yearly to Richard son of Edward and his heirs, 1lb. of pepper at Michaelmas for all demand; for which concession the bishop paid 9 marks.

Witnesses: Andrew Bukerel, mayor of London, Richard Renger, Roger le Duc, Terric de Colon, Stephen de la Strande, Richard son of Edward.

39. 1242, April.—Inspeximus by W[illiam Brewer], bishop of Exeter, of the following instruments relating to the arrangements agreed upon by the church of Wells and the church of Bath with regard to the election of bishops:—

i. Pope Alexander [III] to the dean, archdeacon, and chapter of Wells, confirming their election of R[eynold FitzJoceline], archdeacon of Salisbury, to the see of Wells. Dated at Anagni xiiii Kal. Mai, [1174].

ii. Pope Alexander [III] to the dean, precentor, archdeacon, and chapter of Wells, confirming their canonical customs. Dated at Anagni, vi Id. Jan., [? same year].

iii. Agreement between the church and convent of Bath and the church and chapter of Wells, for joint election of bishops. Sworn to and sealed by the prior and convent of Bath and Alexander, dean, and the chapter of Wells.

iv. Letter from Robert, prior, and the convent of Bath, to Pope Innocent [III], announcing the death of Bishop Savaric and the joint election of Master Jocelin, clerk of their church and canon of Wells. Subscribed by Robert, the prior, and many others. [Mutilated.]

v. Similar letter from Alexander, dean, and the chapter of Wells. Subscribed by all the chapter.

vi. Testimonial letters from W[ill. de St. Maria], bishop of London, G[ilbert de Glanville], bishop of Rochester, and many other bishops, to Pope I[nnocent III] on the same subject, and recording the assent of King John to the election.

vii. Similar letters from the same to J[ohn], cardinal deacon of Sta. Maria in Via Lata and legate apostolic, on the same subject.

viii. Royal assent to the election of the same, directed to the above cardinal. Dated 23 April, [1206], at Dokemerefeld. Witness: P[eter des Roches], bishop of Winchester.

Dated April, 1242. Injured. (Printed in Archœologia, vol. lii, pp. 103–7, and in Church's Early History of the Church of Wells, pp. 397, etc.)

40. 1242, July.—Inspeximus by J[oceline], bishop of Bath, W[illiam Brewer], bishop of Exeter, and W[illiam II], bishop of Norwich, of the following documents exhibited before them by the dean and chapter of Wells.

i. Pope Alexander [III] to the dean, archdeacons, and chapter of Wells, confirming the election of R[eynold FitzJoceline], archdeacon of Salisbury, to the see of Wells. Dated at Anagni, xiiii Kal. Maii, [1174].

ii. Pope Alexander [III] to the dean, precentor, archdeacons, and chapter of Wells, confirming the liberties of the cathedral church, and desiring them to let no controversy arise between them and the church of Bath concerning elections of bishops. Dated, Anagni, vi Id. Jan., [1175].

iii. Articles of agreement made between the church and convent of Bath and the church and chapter of Wells, with respect to the joint election of bishops. Confirmed by oath of the prior and convent of Bath and Alexander, dean, and the chapter of Wells [cir. 1180].

iv. Robert, prior, and the convent of Bath, to Pope Innocent [III], announcing the death of Bishop Savaric, and the election of Bishop Joceline. Subscribed by Robert, prior, John, subprior, Martin, chamberlain, William, treasurer, Richard, subsacrist, Anselm, succentor, Serlo, subcellarer, Robert, granatar, John, third prior, [and others], [Feb., 1205–6].

v. Alexander, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Pope I[nnocent III] to the same effect, subscribed by the dean, William, precentor, Hugh, archdeacon of Wells, Roger, chancellor of Wells, R. (?) archdeacon of Bath, [and others].

vi. Letters testimonial of the bishops (the see of Canterbury being vacant) of London, Rochester, Exeter, Salisbury, Ely, Coventry, Worcester, Norwich, Lincoln, Chichester and Winchester, to Pope I[nnocent III], to the same effect, announcing that King John had assented to the election, and desiring papal confirmation.

vii. Letters from the king signifying his assent to the said election, directed to J[ohn], cardinal deacon of Sta. Maria in Via Lata, then coming as legate to England. Witnessed by P[eter des Roches], bishop of Winchester, at Dokemerfelde, 23 April, [1206].

Dated July, 1242. Episcopal seal and counterseal.

Printed, as above.

41.—Original deed recited in no. 40, article iii, with signatures of all the witnesses Torn and discoloured.

41a. 1242, Oct. 17.—Ordinance of bishop Joceline, changing the communia of the canons and vicars from bread to money payments.

Witnesses: John Sarracenus, dean, and the chapter of Wells. Dated in chapter at Wells, 16 Kal. Nov., 1242, 37th year of pontificate.

[See Church's Early History of the Church of Wells, pp. 235–7.

Found among muniments of St. Cross Hospital, Winchester, returned through the Very Rev. W. R. W. Stephens, dean of Winchester, on behalf of the Trustees, 1897.]

42. 1243, Nov. 2.—Grant by the chapter of Wells to Sir Peter, son of the noble man Sir Peter Sarracenus of Rome [de Urbe], of the church of Cungresbure, with its chapels, upon presentation by the king, sede vacante, for life, at a rent of 40s., in accordance with the ordinance of W[alter], archbishop of York, W[alter], bishop of Carlisle, and R[alph], bishop of Chichester. Dated in Wells chapter, 4 non. Nov., 1243.

Indented. cyrograph.

43. cir. 1245.—Confirmation by Joceline son of Hubert, canon of Wells, and Reynold Knihtht, to Sir Miles, chaplain, and his assigns, of the sale of a tenement which they bought from Master Adam Fisicus, canon of Wells, paying yearly 4d. for all service. Witnesses: Sir Henry de London, canon of Wells, Walter the chamberlain, Philip de Wike, Master Thomas Norreis, David the chaplain, Laurence the reeve, William Buche, Godfrey Petit, [and others].

44. 1246, Aug. 19.—Inspeximus by Thomas, prior, and the convent of Bath, of a grant (dated at Banewell, May, 1246) by Roger, bishop of Bath and Wells, to the chapter of Wells, of the custody of the deanery of Wells, whenever it shall be vacant, both in spirituals and in temporals.

Dated at Bath chapter house, xiv Kal. Sept., 1246.

45. 1246, Aug. 19.—Recital and ratification by Thomas, prior, and the convent of Bath, of a letter of Roger, bishop of Bath and Wells, defining the procedure in the joint election of bishops by the two chapters. Dated at Bath, chapter house, 14 Kal. Sept., 1246. [Printed in Church's Early History of the Church of Wells, pp. 407–15.]

46. 1246, Aug. 13.—The letter of Bishop Roger recited in no. 45: dated Staweye, Id. Aug., 1246.

47. 1246.—Deed by Th[omas], prior, and the convent of Bath, respecting the settlement of certain disputes between the churches of Bath and Wells. Dated . . . 1246.

A fragment.

48. [cir. 1186–1188.]—Inspeximus by Ra[inaud], bishop of Bath, of a grant by Theodoric son of William de Mudiford, with the assent of Beatrice, his wife, and Henry and William, his sons, of the church of Mudiford, to St. Peter, St. Paul, and the monks of Montacute, in frank almoign; witnesses: Helias, chaplain of Cinnoch, Robert, priest of Stokes, William, chaplain of Montacute, William, chaplain of Odecumbe, etc.; and confirmation to Jocelin, the prior, and the convent of Montacute. Witnesses: Ralph [de Lechlade], archdeacon of Bath, Joceline, bishop's chaplain, John de Cumba, William the chaplain, Robert, chaplain of Martoch, [and others].

49. cir. 1247–8.—Release by Margery de Stokes, in her widowhood and lawful power, to John, dean, and the chapter of Wells, of all claim to lands and fees in the manor of Norchuri [North Curry], with a clause invalidating any documents that may be produced to impugn the same; in return for which the dean and chapter grant to her, for life, certain demesne lands in the same manor, and to Sibil, daughter of Simon de la Slo, for life, other lands there. Witnesses: Henry de Cerne, Hugh de Pimor, Roger de la Slo, Henry le Hundredman, [and others].

50. 1247–8, Feb. 2.—Indented agreement whereby the dean and chapter grant to Sibil, daughter of Simon de la Slo, niece [nepota] of Margery de Stokes, in consideration of the release by Margery de Stokes of one hide in Meridon [see no. 51], of 11½ acres in their demesne of Northcuri and 2 acres of meadow; to hold to Sibil for life, at a rent of 12d. yearly. Witnesses, as in no. 49. Dated, the Purification, 1247.

Seal; a star.

51. 1247–8, Jan. 20.—Indented agreement whereby Margery de Stokes, in her widowhood and lawful power, releases to the dean and chapter of Wells, a hide of land in Meridon and other claims in the manor of Northcuri; the dean and chapter grant to Margery for life 11½ acres of land late granted to Sibil, daughter of Simon de la Slo, at Dogkesland and Lamlegh in the demesne of Northcuri, and 2 acres of meadow in their park of Northcuri, in exchange for the like quantity of land and meadow, for life. Witnesses: John de Aura, Richard Tregoz, vicar of Northcuri, Adam de Meridon, [and others]. Dated, St. Fabian and St. Sebastian, 1247.

52. 1247–8, Feb. 5.—Memorandum of adjournment of proceedings by the prior and convent of Bath and the canons of Wells in the chapterhouse at Bath, in the matter of the election of a bishop, at the instance of the prior of Winchester, J[ohn] de Plessetis, Earl of Warwick, and Master W[illiam] de Kilkenni, archdeacon of Coventry, the king's envoys a latere, until the morrow of St. Mathias. Dated at Bath, Wednesday, the feast of St. Agatha, 1247.

53. 1247–8, Feb. 25.—Certificate by Richard the subprior and Henry de Sokerwyk', monks delegated by the prior and convent of Bath, and Master Robert de Mariscis, and Gilbert de Byham, canons delegated by the dean and chapter of Wells, of the election of Master William de Button, archdeacon of Wells, to the see of Bath and Wells in succession to Roger, late bishop. Dated, 25 Feb., 5 Kal. March, the morrow of St. Mathias; pontificate of Pope Innocent IV, 1247.

Capitular seal and counter seal.

54. 1249, Oct. 23.—Mandate of W[illiam Bitton], bishop of Bath and Wells, to the abbats, priors, archdeacons, deans, &c., of the diocese, accrediting Master J. de Axebr[idge] and N. de Cranford, clerks, his proctors, to convey to them the mandate apostolic which he has lately received, &c. Dated at Merton, 10 Kal. Nov., 1249, 2nd year of the bishop.

55. 1250, [Ap. 10.]—Deed setting forth that Uguccio, called Mace, merchant of Florence, of the society of John Gualfredi, proctor of Ildicius, perpetual vicar of Cristemeleford, has received at London, for the above named Ildicius, from the dean and chapter of Wells, at the hands of Master Robert de Evesham and Gilbert, vicar of the church of Wells, 18 marks, 10s., part of a sum of 25 marks due to him for farm of the vicarage of Cristemeleford, a fortnight after Easter, 1250; the dean and chapter shall pay the balance, 6 marks 40d., for the Pope's subsidy. Witness: H[enry] de Cornhyll, dean of St. Paul's, London, who has affixed his seal at my request. Dated at London, the Sunday when Misericordia Domini is chanted, 1250.

56. 1256–1284.—Grant by Walter le Frie to Edward, dean, and the chapter of Wells, of the homage and service of Richard Bucel, son and heir of the late William Bucel, for the free tenement held by the said William of the grantor in the manor of Nortchury. Witnesses: Henry called "hundredar," Walter then "hundredar," William Gyen, Nicholas de Welinthun, [and others].

57. [late 13th cent.]—Grant by Hugh de la Wyche to Hugh de la Hele, of the wardship and profit of 3 acres of land in Huntham, lately held by Richard Buscel by military service, during the minority of Adam, son and heir of the said Richard, and failing him, during the minority of William son of the said Richard. Witnesses: Sir Walter de Loveny, knt., William de Thorne, Geoffrey de la Slo, Thomas de Mere, Walter Hundr[edar], William de Meridon, Walter le Frye, and Richard le Frye.

58.—Release by Agnes relict of William atte More to ——, of a tenement in Chamberlain Street, Wells. Witnesses: Edmund de Welleslegh, William de la Wythie, Richard Gygoun, Nicholas de Palton. Dated at Wells, Monday, Translation of St. Thomas, martyr.

Oval seal; a star of eight points. s' Agneti relict' will' d'la mor.

59. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Confirmation by John de Aura of a grant made by Eva de Churnleghe, daughter of Robert Wither, in her widowhood and lawful power, to Master Simon Gyan, her kinsman, his heirs and assigns, of land in La Wudebreche, La Cliste, La Hele, etc.; paying 23½d. yearly for all service except royal service; witnesses: Henry le Hundredman, Walter the merchant, Robert de Mere, [and others]. Witnesses: Hugh de Gayhurste, Roger de la Slo, Walter de Widecumb, Walter de la Lade, Walter de la Santpitte, [and others].

Round seal; a 5-pointed star. s' johannis de avre. See no. 63.

60. 1255–1268.—Grant by Geoffrey de Brideport, to Hugh his son, of a rent of 20s. yearly out of houses formerly belonging to Hugh, archdeacon of Bath, opposite the front of St. Andrew's church, Wells, and the reversion of the same; also two marks rent and the reversion of his land of Fotton (?) in Blakeford manor; for his life, paying 1d. (?) yearly for all service, except royal service and the rents of the chief lords. Witnesses: Hugh de Romenale, treasurer, Roger, subdean, Richard de Button, succentor, John de Button, provost of Wells, [and others].

61. [Late Hen. III.]—Grant by Roger Burgeyis to Richard son of Yvo Code, of a messuage lately held by his father William [Burgeyis] and an area of curtilage which he bought of Mirabella daughter of John de Cardeville; to hold to Richard, his heirs and assigns, paying yearly to Sir John de Palton 6d. and to Sir Ernis de Dunheved 3d., and to Sir John de Palton 2d. for the said area, for all service. In exchange for a messuage held lately by Yvo [Code] in High Street, Wells. Witnesses: Philip de Wikes, Bartholomew de Emneberg, knts., Walter, chamberlain, Gilbert son of the archdeacon, [and others].

Oval seal; a fleur-de-lis. [s' . .] rogeri bvrgeis.

62. 1245–1255.—Grant, for 40s., by Roger le Butiller to Geoffrey de Bridiport, his heirs and assigns, of 4 acres of land in Wells, in the east field, late belonging to Mariota de Wells, which Peter de Cicestre, late dean of Wells, bought of her and gave to the grantor; paying to the bishop, 8d. yearly for all service. Witnesses: Sir H. de London, treasurer of Wells, William de Leycestre, bailiff of Wells, Walter the chamberlain, [and others].

Round seal; a cross fleury. s' Rogeri le bvtiler.

63. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by Eva de Churnleghe, daughter of Robert Wither, to Master Simon Gyan, her kinsman, his heirs and assigns, of land in La Wudebreche, La Clive Borealis, Stathemore, La Hele, La Holemore, &c.; paying yearly 23½d. for all service except royal service, and a payment of 3½ marks sterling for entry; with power to sell to any except religious men or Jews. Witnesses: Henry "le Hundredman," Walter the merchant, Robert de Merre,

Adam de Myriedun, [and others].

Round seal; an ornamental rosette. s' evve de chvrnlege. See no. 59.

64. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Confirmation by Lawrence son of Eva de Chernlegh, to William Gyan, his heirs and assigns, whose homage he has received, of a grant by her to Master Simon Gyan of land in La Wudebreche, More, La Clyve, La Hele and La Holemore, &c. Witnesses: Henry le Hundredman, Adam de Muridon, Roger Hughes [Hugonis], Roger White [Albus], Walter Caucy, [and others].

65. [13th–14th cent.]—Release by William de Clona, chaplain, to Edmund de Wellesleghe, "hundredar" of Wells, of a tenement in Chamberlaynestrete, Wells, for 5 marks paid in hand. Witnesses: Thomas de Welleslegh, knt., Richard de Rodenye, bailiff of Wells, Adam Canun, [and others].

Heater-shaped seal; a priest officiating at mass. s' will'i de clon' sac'dot's.

66. [ante 1253.]—Grant by Richard son of Yvo Code to William, archdeacon of Wells, his heirs and assigns, of a messuage late belonging to Roger Burgeys, and land in Chalvecroft, paying yearly to Sir J . . . [?] —d. and to Sir Ernis de Dunheved 3d. Witnesses: Master Robert de Berkeley, subdean of Wells, . . . Walter, chamberlain, William Bucch, Laurence son of William, [and others].

Imperfect. See no. 61.

67. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by Robert de Culern to Walter de Sutton, his heirs and assigns, of land in West Pennard [Somerset], paying yearly a pair of white gloves price 1d., or 1d. at Easter; for 6 marks in hand. Witnesses: Sir Nicholas de Lusteshale, steward of Glastonbury, Reynold Huse, Martin de Legh, [and others].

68. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Inspeximus by William de Elmam of a grant by Nicholas, his son, to the chapter of Wells, of the land of Lamleg' in the manor of Northchori, paying yearly to . . . 12d.; for 5 marks paid in hand; witnesses: Sir Walter the chamberlain, Sir Philip de Wike, Geoffrey de Wudeford, [and others]. Witnesses, as above. Imperfect.

69. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Indented agreement between the chapter of Wells and William de Elmeham and Alice his wife, whereby the chapter grant to the said William and Alice, for their lives, a load of wheat and a load of rye yearly, and quitclaim them from the netaria (?) and churchscot (chirisett) of half a load of wheat, in consideration of the gift and confirmation which Nicholas the clerk and William his father have made to the chapter; but the said William and Alice shall pay 5s. yearly and perform all customs and services due from the land, other than netaria and churchscot. Imperfect.

70. [? Temp. Edw. III.]—Grant by Robert Gyan, son and heir of William Gyan of Northcory, to Masters William de Littleton, John de Hywysch, and Stephen de Hulle, canons of Wells, and the heirs and assigns of Stephen, of a messuage and lands in La Schorteclyve, with rents and services due from Thomas de Sowy, for lands and tenements and a windmill in Cherlegh in the hundred of Northcory, and with reversion of the said lands and mill. Witnesses: Matthew de Clyvedon, John atte Sloo, John Waspray, Richard Everard, [and others]. Apparently never executed.

71. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by John de Laverlega to Nicholas Syrwold, and the heirs of his body, of a "ferdell" of land in the vill of Suttun Abbots, and a moiety of 2 crofts in the vill of West-Pennard; paying yearly 2s. 1d. to William Huse, and to the almoner of Glastonbury ½d. at Easter, for all service except royal service. Witnesses: William, lord of Estret, Robert de la Lavendrye, Walter Cotele, [and others].

72. [Temp. Hen. III or Edw. I.]—Release by Robert son of Herbert "le Maszun" and Iseude his wife, to Robert, called the Dyer [tinctor], vicar of the church of St. Andrew, Wells, his heirs and assigns, of a rent of 6d. yearly out of a messuage near the schools, Wells; for 5s. Witnesses: Richard de London, Richard de Dultycote, Richard Dikedale, [and others].

73. [Late Hen. III.]—Release in pure alms, for 4 marks paid in hand, by Thomas de Giverny, son and heir of Roger de Giverny the second, to Edward, the dean, and the chapter of Wells, of land, late belonging to Cristina daughter of Thomas de Bolonia, his great-grandmother [proava], in the manor of North Kury. Witnesses: Philip de Button, Simon le Peyntur, Richard de London, Thomas le Chamberleyn, [and others].

Pointed oval seal; an eightleaved flower, between two trefoils. s' thome: de: giverni.

74.—Another copy of No. 73; seal as before.

75.—Another copy of No. 73. Witnesses: Sir Philip de Cantelo, knt., Geoffrey de la Slo, Simon de Mere, Adam de Myredon, Henry the Hundredar, [and others].

76. [? Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by Cristina Scovyn, in her widowhood and full power, to Simon called "Le Kyng" of Wells and Juliana his wife, their heirs and assigns, of 2s. rent out of a messuage in Southovere, which Walter de la Borecote, clerk, held of the gift of Sabina Dykedale, sister of the above Cristina; for 18s. in hand. Witnesses: Adam Canun, John de Garselade, William de Legh, John Gylemayde, Robert Bouch, clerk, [and others].

Round seal; an ornamental cross. s' cristine scoven.

77. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by John de Sutton, son of Richard de Spaxton, to Robert called the Dyer [tynctor], vicar of Wells, his heirs and assigns, of a tenement in Wells, formerly of Richard le Norreis, `ad la Muntorie' next the schools of Wells; for a payment of 9 marks. Witnesses: Hugh Everard, bailiff of Wells, Richard de London, Roger de Mudes'ege, [and others].

78. [Temp. Hen. III or Edw. I.]—Grant in free alms by Gilbert de Thorn to Edward, the dean, and the chapter of Wells, of 6 acres of wood in Thorn, near the dean and chapter's wood of Halshangre, on the west side. Witnesses: Sir Philip de Cantilupo, Richard de Cam, Richard de London, Henry the Hundredar, William Buscel, Adam de Muridon, and Roger Huet.

Pointed oval seal; ? a thorn tree. . . . erti . . .

79. [? Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by John son of Richard de Welles, to Adam son of Thomas de la More, his heirs and assigns, of land in Northcroft, paying yearly 3d. for all service; for 2s. to the grantor and 12d. to Juliana his wife. Witnesses: John son of Henry de Welles, "etc." Fifteenth century copy.

80. [Temp. Hen. III.]—Grant by William, called Archdeacon, vicar of Wells, to the dean and chapter of Wells, of houses in Wells, near those formerly of Ralph Preciosus, for an anniversary commemoration in their church according to custom, paying yearly 11d. to the chief lords for all service. Witnesses: Walter Hubert, Richard Lundr' [? Londrensis], Master Simon de St. Albans, [and others].

81. [? Temp. Hen. III or Edw. I.]—Inspeximus by Alexander Hosatus, of Wyka, of the following charters.

• (1) Grant by William Gele to Elias de Cumba, vicar of Wells, his heirs and assigns, of part of a messuage late belonging to Turald le Machun, in Byestewalle Street in Wells, paying yearly to Sir Walter de Wyk 2½d. and to the grantor ½d. for all service; for 22s. 2d. paid in hand. Witnesses: Richard Norrensis, Master Simon Pictor, John de Wynthon, [and others].
• (2) Grant by Thomas Turold to the same, of his part of the same messuage, paying yearly to Sir Walter de Wyke 2½d. and to the grantor a clove gillyflower for all service; for 22s. 3d. paid beforehand. Witnesses as in (1).
• (3) Grant by Maud daughter of the late Turold le Machun, to the same, of her part of the same messuage, paying yearly to Sir Walter de Wyke 2½d. and to the grantor a clove gillyflower for all service; for 22s. 3d. paid beforehand. Witnesses as in (1).

• (4) Grant by Joan daughter of the late Turold le Machun, of her part of a piece of land late belonging to her said father, paying yearly to the grantor a peppercorn, for all service except forinsec service of the king; for 6s. paid beforehand. Witnesses: Robert Blakett, bailiff of Wells, [and others as in (1)].
• (5) Grant by Isota daughter of Thurold le Machun, to the same, of her part of the piece of land late belonging to her said father, at a peppercorn rent, and 6s. beforehand [as in (4)]. Witnesses as in (4.)

82. 1251.—Memorandum that on Sunday after All Saints, 1251, the suffragans of the province of Canterbury met for the dedication of the Cistercian monastery of Heyles, in the diocese of Worcester, viz. H[ugh], bishop of Ely, R[obert], bishop of Lincoln, W[alter], bishop of Worcester, F[ulk], bishop of London, W[alter], bishop of Norwich, W[illiam], bishop of Salisbury, R[ichard], bishop of Exeter, R[ichard], bishop of Chichester, W[illiam], bishop of Bath and Wells, Th[omas], bishop of St. Davids, L[awrence], bishop of Rochester, and [Anian], bishop of St. Asaph; and on the morrow they met at Wynchecombe for expediting certain business before the king of England. They there agreed to send Master John de Cheham to the apostolic see on their own business and that of those subject to the archbishop of Canterbury, viz. to obtain the grace of the apostolic see touching the visitation and procuration attempted by the archbishop in the city and diocese of London, and likely to be attempted against other bishops of the province; to obtain letters apostolic for compelling all suffragans of the province, houses of religion non-exempt, and clergy to contribute to the subsidy for the apostolic see; and to act in the matter of recalling the grace lately made to the archbishop on the first fruits of ecclesiastical benefices. The said bishops jointly promised him 100 marks for his expenses, and 200 marks, by way of salary, if he should obtain the letters enforcing contributions to the subsidy; if not 100l. by way of salary. To do this, the bishops, touching their breasts, bound themselves and their successors. For further security, they subjected themselves and their property to the authority of the bishops of Norwich and Bath and Wells, who made themselves primarily liable for the expenses and salary, the 100l. or the 200 marks to be paid within six months of Master John's return to England. The bishops of Lincoln, London, Bath and Wells, and St. David's, affixed their seals. Dated at Winchecombe, 8 Id. Nov., 1251.

83. 1251.—Indented agreement, whereby Geoffrey de Bridiport undertakes to pay to Lady Agatha de Meisy 20l. yearly during her life for the manor of Kerchel, co. Dorset, which she gave him; and 100s. to two chaplains to commemorate her yearly in the greater church at Wells as appears by his charter to the chapter in this behalf; power of distress. Witnesses: Sir Henry, treasurer of Wells, Peter prior of the Hospital, Wells, Matthew de Burnham, Philip de Butthon, [and others]. Dated, octave of St. Martin, 1251.

84. 1253.—Record of the formula of excommunication pronounced on the 3rd of the Ides of May, in the Great Hall of Westminster, in the presence of King Henry III, R[ichard], earl of Cornwall, R[oger], earl of Norfolk and Suffolk, marshal of England, H[umphrey], earl of Hereford, H[ugh], earl of Oxford, J[ohn], earl of Warwick, and others, by the archbishop of Canterbury, and the bishops of London, Ely, Lincoln, Worcester, Norwich, Hereford, Salisbury, Durham, Exeter, Carlisle, Bath, Rochester, and St. Davids, against the transgressors of the liberties of the church and the liberties or free customs of the realm of England, and especially those contained in the charters of Common Liberties and de Foresta. Dated, 1253, 3 Id. May.
(Printed in Fœdera, vol. i, p. 289.)

Of the fourteen seals of the prelates only a small fragment of one remains.

85. 1259.—Appropriation by William [de Button], bishop of Bath and Wells, with consent of John de Button, rector of Cungrebyr', of the advowson of that church to the canons of Wells, to be held by the dean and canons of Wells (the bishop presenting on vacancies) subject to certain services. Dated, Wells, 17 Kal. May, 1259, 11th year of the bishop.

86. 1260.—Grant by E[dward de la Cnoll], dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Robert Speciarius, his heirs and assigns, of a house in Chaumberlayne St., Wells, which Walter the Chamberlain gave for his obit, paying yearly 3s. to the communar of the chapter, and 6d. to the chief lord, and discharging all burdens whether ecclesiastical or mundane. Dated at the chapter, Wells, St. Gregory, 1260.

87. 1260.—Inspeximus by William [de Button], bishop of Bath and Wells, of letters, dated Thursday after St. Nicholas, 1259, of P[eter], prior of the Hospital and Fraternity of St. John, Wells, whereby he is bound to the dean and chapter in a yearly rent of one mark payable to the communar of Wells Cathedral, at the obit of William de Wethamstede, formerly provost of Cumbe, and for this bond Philip de Button granted to the said prior and fraternity, two messuages in High St., Wells. Dated at Banewell, xv Kal. Dec., in the 12th year of the said William, bishop [1260].

88. [Temp. Hen. III or Edw. I.]—Release by Cicely Scovyn, daughter and heir of Cristina Scovyn, to Simon called Le Kyng of Wells and Juliana his wife, of a yearly rent of 2s. in Wells, which Cristina used to receive for a messuage in Southovere. Witnesses: Adam Canum, John de Garselade, William de Legh, John Gylemayde, [and others].

Round seal; a fleur-de-lys. s' cecilie scovyn.

89. [Temp. Hen. III or Edw. I.]—Inspeximus and confirmation by Robert Gyngheloth of the following charter of his chief lord:—

Grant by Peter de Wodeford to Edward, the dean, and the chapter of Wells, in free alms, for celebrating the obit of Mabel Buche in the greater church, of a yearly rent of 4s. payable by Robert Gyngeloth out of two messuages, one in the street leading towards Ysaackesmede and the other in St. Cuthbert's St., and 12d. out of the house of his [Peter's] brother Thomas. Witnesses: Richard Londrais, Henry de Winton, [and others].

Robert binds himself, his heirs and assigns to pay an additional 12d. rent for his houses, making it 5s. Witnesses: Richard de London, Philip de Butthon, Adam Canun, [and others].

90. 1262.—Grant, for 20s., by William Slavyne [?] of Cote, to the church of All Saints at Mertok, and Hugh, rector of the same, in free alms, of land on the east side of Hugh's barton, 80 feet long and 42 feet broad, for the enlargement of his court. Witnesses: Robert de Paris, steward of Sir Engeram de Feynnes, Roger Eustace of Mudeslegh, Hugh de la Lane of Ivelcestre, William Hugelin, Walter le Messager, Simon, clerk, Martin de Wynescumb, and Alan, bailiff of the prior of Otriton. Dated, Mertok, 8 Id. April, 1262.

91. 1263.—Final concord made on the 15 of Trinity, 47 Henry III, at Ivelcestre, before Robert de Brywes, and others, justices in eyre, between Edward, the dean, and the chapter of Wells, querents, and John de Aure, deforciant, settling the claim of the dean and chapter to exercise their rights in cases of fugitives and outlaws within their liberty of Norhcury; and giving permission to the same to inclose their meadows and pastures called Corymormede, etc., and defining the duties of the deforciant in respect of his holdings, tithes, and suit of court, both for himself and his men of Stathe, who may be hereafter in one "thethyng" and answer by their own "thyngman" in the hundred at two law days yearly.
(Cƒ. Green's Somerset Fines, vol. 1, pp. 189–191.)

92. 1263.—Grant by Robert, prior of Staverdale, of the order of St. Victor, and the convent of the same, to Sir John de Axebrigg, sub-dean of Wells, of a rent of 30s., payable in the greater church [in majori ecclesia] of Wells to John and his assigns during his life, and afterwards to the dean and chapter; to be delivered to any vicar of the place who shall each day celebrate at the altar of Blessed Mary Magdalen, for the soul of the said John, his benefactors, and all faithful departed; with power of distress. For this John has given us 40 marks to buy for our church a virgate of land at Curchelesham in the parish of Wyncanton. Et ad majorem securitatem omnium premissorum et singulorum, Willelmus, venerabilis pater Bathoniensis et Wellensis episcopus, hanc concessionem et donacionem nostram ratam habens et gratam ad nostram instanciam, sigillum suum duxit apponendum. Dated in the month of July, xiii Kal. Aug. [July 20], 1263.

Pointed oval seal, imperfect, bearing a standing figure of St. James the Apostle holding a staff in the right hand and a book (?) in the left. sigill' eccles[ie sancti iaco]bi de staverdale.

93. 1263.—Duplicate or counterpart of no. 92. (Printed in Hoare's Monastic Remains, p. 149.)

Seal and counter seal of William [de Bitton], bishop of Bath and Wells, imperfect. On the obv. on a diapered ground a full length figure of the bishop, and a cathedral tower. . . . sis . . . On the reverse the bishop in the base under an arch, adoring three seated figures. . . . rmanor. . .

Seal of the prior, pointed oval, bearing an Agnus Dei. s' rob'i p'oris de staverdd'ne.

94. 1266.—Grant by John, the prior, and the convent, of Worspring, of the order of St. Victor, to Sir John de Axebrugge, sub-dean of Wells, of a rent of 20s. yearly, to be paid to a vicar appointed by the subdean at the altar of St. Mary Magdalen, for a daily service for the soul of the said prior, for 30 marks given to us by the said John to buy land and rents for our house. Walter, bishop of Bath and Wells, has affixed his seal at our request. Dated, 22 July, xi Kal. Aug., 1266.

95. 1268.—Indenture, whereby Geoffrey de Brideport is bound to Edward, the dean, and the chapter of Wells, to pay 100s. yearly in the church of Wells, out of the land of Kerchel, to maintain four priest-vicars of the church of Wells, for two anniversaries every year for the souls of dame Agatha de Meysy, and her ancestors, and of Geoffrey de Brideport and Margery his wife and their ancestors and heirs, in the chapel of Blessed Mary on the south side of the greater church of Wells. Witnesses: Philip de Button, Laurence de Cumpton, Richard de London, steward of the dean, Richard de Dultingcote, John Annore, burgesses of Wells, John de Mortune, William de la Cnolle, and Geoffrey de Lucy. Dated, Wells, Wednesday after palm sunday, 1268.

Cƒ. vol. 1, p. 105 (where in the margin, "Brideport set nunc Chideok"): vol. 1, p. 378.

96. 1268.—Grant by Robert, the prior, and the convent of Berliz [Barlinch,] of the order of St. Augustine, of a yearly payment of 100s. to the dean and chapter of Wells, to maintain two chaplains, vicars of the church, and to support the lamps, ornaments, etc., and relieve the poor, and to celebrate daily for the soul of the late Hugh de Romenal, treasurer of Wells, who had greatly benefitted the said convent by a gift of 200 marks, wherewith they had acquired 100s. rent in villeinage and ½ virgate of land in the manor of Wynesford, and the advowson of the church there. The convent also undertaking to distribute a pittance of 4s. on the anniversary of the deceased among the poor. Si autem presens obligacio et cautio, procedente tempore, vetustate vel alias fracte seu consumpte fuerint, nos cautionem et securitatem hujusmodi quoties et quando decanus et capitulum aut successores sui voluerint innovabimus et sigillabimus iterato. Dated, Wells, 6 id. Nov. [8 Nov.], 1268.

Seal, pointed oval; the prior under an arch, adoring St. Nicholas. s' robti p'oris s'c'i nicholai de b'liz.

Fragment of pointed oval seal of William, bishop of Bath and Wells.

97. 1268.—Lease by Master Walter de Lechelade, succentor of Wells, to Richard the Fuller and Alexander the Fuller, for their lives, of a house divided into two, near to that of Thomas le Veil, in Wells, at 8s. rent.

98. 1269.—Agreement whereby Walter de Lechelade, succentor of Wells, with the assent of William, bishop of Bath and Wells, and of the chapter of Wells, grants and releases to Robert, the abbat, and the convent of Glastonbury, 1½ acres of land at Wotton in Brocforlang, so that it may be inclosed and improved; the abbat and convent may hold in peace the mill and the mill-stream, which they have made there, and may inclose other land there, and may improve and let for yearly rent to the precentor of Wells, the rector of Pulton, and to the free tenants and others of the whole manor of Pulton, 100 acres of moor in Wotton. The abbat and convent confirm to the succentor and his successors 20 acres of land in the moor of Wotton, paying yearly one mark for all service. Witnesses: Sir Elias Cotele, Sir Warine de Sicca Villa, Sir Roger Fitz Payn, knts., [and others]. Dated Michaelmas, 1269.

Pointed oval seal of the abbat, fragmentary. On the reverse, a subject perhaps the Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. . . . ine . . .

Obverse, a full-length figure.

99. [cir. 1269.]—Inspeximus by the prior and convent of the cathedral church of Bath, of

• (1) A grant in frank almoin by William I, bishop of Bath and Wells, to the church of St. Andrew, Wells, and to the dean and chapter, of land, and the advowson of the church, at Stoke Gummer. Witnesses: Henry de Erlegh, John de Aure, [and others].
• (2) Appropriation of the above by William II, bishop of Bath and Wells, to the dean and chapter of Wells, with conditions of its tenure set forth in detail. Dated at Woky, 6 nones October, 12[69], 5th year of the bishop.

Dated, . . Imperfect.

100. [1256–1284.]—Grant in free alms by John de Laverton to Edward [de la Cnoll], dean, and the chapter of Wells, of 2 virgates of land in Perte in the manor of Laverton, which Isabel de la Doune, relict of Richard de la Doune, and Juliana, relict of Gilbert Huggel, hold, with the homage and services of tenants, villeins and their sequelœ. Witnesses: Sir Henry de Monteforti, Peter de Norton, Henry de Monteforti of Nony, Richard de London, [and others].