Charters: Nos. 501-600 (1401-37)

Nos. 501–600 (1401–37)

501. 1401.—Surrender by Richard Mayn to John Garton, esq., and his heirs, of all his lands, etc., in Nyweton Plesy and Exton, which John had lately granted to Richard for life. Dated, Westminster, 2 May, 2 Hen. IV.

Round seal: the sacred monogram, IHC., surmounted by a cross.

502. 1401–2.—Agreement between the dean and chapter and John Mountagu. There have been suits between them in the king's court, yet undecided, touching a fishery, which Mountagu claims of right by reason of his lands and tenements in the manor of Northcory, in the water of [Tone], which water the dean and chapter have had as their several fishery, time out of mind, etc. Montagu admits that he has no right to the fishery, etc., but reserves certain rights of common and estovers; he and his heirs will not fish in the fishery nor hunt nor hawk in the dean and chapter's warren at Northcory without special license; he binds himself and his heirs in 10 marks to observe this agreement. Witnesses: Thomas Brooks, William Bonvyle, Walter Rodenye, and Baldwin Malet, knts., [and others]. Dated, Wells, Monday in the second week in Lent, 3 Hen. IV.

503. 1402.—Licence by Henry [IV] to John Bockyng the elder to grant to the dean and chapter of Wells 2 messuages and 3 tofts in Wells, to the use of the resident vicars, notwithstanding the statute of mortmain; for a fine of 10s. paid by the dean and chapter. Dated, Westminster, 5 May, 3rd year.

Fair example of the great seal, imperfect. Indorsed: Carta domini regis pro tenementis Johannis Bockyng in Southover.

504. 1402.—Grant by Henry [Bowet], bishop of Bath and Wells, to the dean and chapter of Wells, of the houses, etc., which Richard Ferour and Agnes Riche late held of the bishop for their lives, in the middle of High st. [in medio alti vici], Wells, opposite Le Horslane, to the use and support of the vicars, paying 20s. yearly to the bishops for all services; a vicar shall celebrate a requiem mass daily for the soul of Ralph de Shrovesbury, late bishop of Bath and Wells, at the altar of Corpus Christi in the cathedral; and for the good estate of the grantor while he lives, with the proper collect, Deus, qui caritatis dona, and for his soul after his death, with the collect, Inclina, domine. Dated, Wells, Sunday the morrow of the nativity of St. John Baptist, 3 Hen. IV.

505. 1402.—Release by Joan Ryche, late wife of Thomas Ryche of Wells, to the dean and chapter of Wells, for the support of the vicars, of all her right to a placea in the middle of the High street, Wells, opposite La Horslane, which the said Thomas and Joan had by grant from Ralph [Erghum], late bishop of Bath and Wells. Et quia sigillum meum pluribus est incognitum, sigillum officii magistri communitatis burgi Well' ad meum specialem rogatum presentibus est appensum. Witnesses: John Blythe, master of the commonalty of the borough of Wells, Thomas Hore, John Broun, [and others]. Dated, Wells, Monday after the nativity of St. John Baptist, 3 Hen. IV.

Two seals.

• (1) Round; a hare riding on a dog and blowing a horn; s . . . ROVD.
• (2) Round; a tree upon a bank with water in the foreground, with birds on the branches, two storks fishing (?) and in the field two human heads; s' OFFICII SENESCALLI COMVNITATIS BVRGI WELLIE.

506. 1402.—Release by Richard Ferour, burgess of Wells, to the dean and chapter of Wells, to the use of the vicars of the cathedral church, of all his right to a place or fabric in the middle of the High Street, Wells, opposite La Horslane. Witnesses: John Blythe, master of the commonalty of the borough, Thomas Hore, Roger Chepman, Walter Deighere, Thomas Piggeslegh, burgesses. Dated, Wells, 3 July, 3 Hen. IV. Et quia sigillum meum pluribus est incognitum, etc.

Two broken seals.

• (1) Two hands clasped and two stars. Legend indistinct.
• (2) As no. 505, (2).

507. 1402.—Grant by Richard Harewell, canon of Wells to Thomas, dean, and the chapter of Wells, of a messuage in Newstreet, Wells, which he had of the feoffment of John Bovyndon, and he of Master Richard Horsford. Witnesses: Masters Roger Harewell, Ralph Canon, canons of Wells John Russell, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 1 Aug., 3 Hen. IV;

Octagonal seal; a heart placed upon a larger one, the large one inscribed with some letters.

508. 1402.—Power of attorney by Richard Harewell, canon, to William Hope, clerk, to deliver seisin to the dean and chapter of Wells, of the tenement granted by no. 507. Dated, Wells, 3 Aug., 3 Hen. IV.

Seal as no. 507.

509. 1402.—Lease by the president and chapter of Wells (the dean being abroad) to Master John Tyssebury, canon of Wells, for life, of a tenement in Chamberlain St., Wells; rent free for 5 years, afterwards 20s. Dated, Wells, Michaelmas, 3 Hen. IV.

Round seal; I T in monogram.

510. 1402.—Release by Thomas Brokampton and Robert Langbrok, to Rouland Rake and Margery his wife, of all their right to lands and tenements at La Fenne in the parish of Mertok, Somerset. Witnesses: William Bonevylle, knight, Hugh Pyke, Robert Geffreys, [and others]. Dated, Mertok, Friday, feast of St. Faith, Virgin, 4 Hen. IV.

511. 1403.—Lease by Sir John Bockyng the elder, Sir John Alampton, vicars of the cathedral church, Wells, and principals of the common hall of the New Close of the vicars, and all the vicars of the same place, to Thomas Consel, Cristina his wife, and Robert their son, for their lives, of a messuage in Southover, Wells; rent, a rose for the first four years, and afterwards 4s. The lessees are to rebuild one moiety of the house within two years, and the other moiety with a further two years. Witnesses: Robert Consel, William Smyzt, John Monsel, [and others]. Dated, Wells, nativity of St. John Baptist, 4 Hen. IV.

Round seal; the letter W.

512. 1403.—Will of John Mylwarde, son of William Mylwarde of Dyndre; his body to be buried in the churchyard of St. Cuthbert's, Wells. Some small legacies. Executors, William Mylward my father and John Mylward my elder brother. Dated, Sunday before the Nativity of the Virgin, 1403.
Probate, 17 September, same year.

513. 1417.—Grant by John Alampton and Thomas atte Wode, chaplains, to Isabel widow of Thomas Tannere of Wells, her heirs and assigns, of a celarium with shops, solars, houses and chambers built above, in Sadeler strete, in the southern corner of the cathedral churchyard, opposite the high cross, between the market place on the south, the tenement of the annuellarii, newly built, and by them lately acquired from William Northlode, on the north, the churchyard on the east and the highway on the west, which celarium, etc., we lately had of the gift of the said Isabel. Witnesses: Richard Settere, master of the town of Wells, Walter Dyer, Hildebrond Elwell, [and others]. Dated, Wells, Thursday after St. Andrew, apostle, 5 Hen. V.

Oval seal; a crowned figure or saint.

514. 1406.—Undertaking by the dean and chapter of Wells, to Walter Wyncaulton, canon, prebendary of Warmenistre alias Luxevyle,—who has delivered to Roger Melles and John Pagenham, perpetual vicars and principals of the common hall of vicars, the sum of 100l., a chalice, a missal, and a vestment, &c., for the adorning of an altar before the rood in the cathedral on the north side of the high bell-tower—to supply a commemoration service for the said Walter, Ralph de Shrewsbury, late bishop, and others; the vicar celebrating to be paid 12d. a week, to be paid out of the rent of our new tenement commonly called Le Vykershyn, near La Horspole. Dated, Wells Chapterhouse, 9 Sept., 1406, 7 Hen. IV.

515. 1406.—Duplicate of no. 514.

Oval seal; the Virgin and Child, before them a kneeling figure, over whose head is the legend s . . . A . . . w [?]; MATER DEI MISERERE MEI.

516. 1406.—General release by Edmund Bys, John Boreham, and Thomas Loche, citizen of London, to John Garton, esq. Dated, London, Christmas eve, 8 Hen. IV.

Three seals;

• (1) round; in tracery, a merchant's mark.
• (2) Oval; a crowned I between two sprigs.
• (3) Octagonal; IHC on a rosette.

517. 1407.—Lease by William Powpe of Doltecote, to John Tropenell [?] and Edith his wife, of a tenement and lands in the vill of Doltecote, for 40 years; rent 6s. 8d. to William while he lives; if he die within the 40 years, then 2s. yearly to the chief lords, and suit of court twice a year at Wylleslegh. Witnesses: John Prentyse, Thomas Webbe, and Henry Bukke. Dated, Doltecote, Pentecost, 8 Hen. IV.

Round seal; an eagle preying on a bird; legend uncertain.

518. 1407.—Defeasance of a bond given by Thomas Gereward [?], priest, to the dean and chapter of Wells, in 40l. for due performance of his duties as vicar of Pokelchurche, diocese of Worcester. Dated, 19 Oct., 9 Hen. IV.

Octagonal signet; I S in monogram.

519. 1408.—Lease by Ralph Vernay, to John Babbe [?] the younger, Isabel his wife, and Eleanour their daughter, for their lives, of ½ acre of meadow in Yeartemore in the parish of Stokecuccy; rent 12d. Witnesses: John Caux, John Beer, Walter Caux, [and others]. Dated, Stokecuccy Thursday before St. Mark, 9 Hen. IV.

520. 1411.—Lease by the president, in the absence of the dean, and the chapter of Wells, to David Cook alias Rode of Pokelchurche, co. Gloucester, for 40 years, of a close called Trottesmore in the parish of Pokelchurche; rent 6s. 8d.; he is to clear the ground of trees and roots, etc. The said David and Walter Lypeyat of Pokelchurche bind themselves in 10l. to observe the terms of the said lease. Dated, Wells, the Translation of St. Thomas, martyr, 12 Hen. IV.

Two seals.

• (1) A fleur-de-lis, motto uncertain.
• (2) Initial letters W.G. [?].

521. 1410.—Grant by Ralph Vernay, to Richard Schyrrefelde, John Blaste, John Halsam, James Cnotteforde, Nicholas Latemere, John Huelet, and others, their heirs and assigns, of all messuages, lands, etc., in Edeston in the parish of Stokecursy, formerly of John Vernay the elder, and lands in Stovordefelde near the cross upon Edelmesdon, and half a burgage in Stokecursy, in the hundred of Canyngton. Witnesses: Baldwin Malet, knt., William Powlet of Bere, Thomas Trowe, [and others]. Dated, Stokecursy, Thursday after the nativity of the Virgin, 11 Hen. IV.

522. 1410.—Release by Ralph Vernay of the same property as no. 521, to the same persons. Witnesses: John Wullyng, vicar of Stokecursy, William Lucas, Henry Pyncou, [and others]. Dated, Stokecursy, Tuesday after St. Matthew the Apostle, 11 Hen. IV.

Round seal; a heart in outline, combined with a fleur-de-lis reversed, and surmounted by a crown.

523. 1411–2.—Release by John son of John Peny, to the dean and chapter of Wells, of all his right to a toft and a small garden in Byestwall, Wells. Et quia sigillum meum pluribus est incognitum, etc. Et ego, Henricus Maundeware, magister burgensium ville de [Well', cum] voluntate et assensu omnium burgensium ville predicte, sigillum commune predictum ad personalem rogatum dicti Johannis Peny presentibus apposui. Witnesses: John Russel, John Horewode, Walter Dyer, [and others]. Dated, Wells, . . March, 12 Hen. IV. Mutilated.

524. 1412.—Lease by Thomas [Wayfere; see no. 579] and Anderna his wife, to Roger Wyx of Wells, for 5 [?] years, of a vacant place or area at Wokyhole; rent . . . Witnesses: Henry Maundeware, then master of the town of Wells, William Wyx, William Selewode, [and others]. Dated, Wells, Friday [?] before Trinity, 13 Hen. IV. Mutilated.

525. 1412.—Lease by John Alamton, William Mayou, and Walter Mone, to Agnes Rabas, sister of Ralph de Ergom, late bishop of Bath and Wells, and Alice Rabas, for their lives, of a tenement in Isakes mede, in a street called Froggelane, Wells, which we (together with John Pakenham) lately had by the feoffment of Agnes and Alice; reversion to the grantors, on the terms of an indenture dated 7 Feb., 6 Henry IV. Witnesses: Thomas Calston, William Westbury, Robert Crok, [and others]. Dated, St. Bartholomew's day, 13 Hen. IV.

Three seals.

• (1) In a gothic niche, St. Katherine with her wheel, with a suppliant kneeling before her; . . . KAT'INE.
• (2) A crowned W.
• (3) St. Michael the archangel overcoming the dragon, in the field the letters T T [?]; S. RICARDI DE HICHE . . . [?].

526. 1413.—Grant by John Arthur of Bysshopworth, to John Wellesleygh alias Wareyn and Elizabeth his wife, their heirs and assigns, of all his lands, etc., in the street called Byestewalles and in the fields of Wells, and a stone wall in that street between my tenement in which Warin de Welleslegh late dwelt and the tenement formerly of Walter Hulle, which John Wareyn, canon of Wells, lately purchased from William Ewayn of Modeford, Walter's kinsman and heir; also property at Woky; all of which, Arthur, Robert Sloo, clerk, and Thomas Turney of Taddewyk, deceased, lately had of the feoffment of the said John Wareyn. Witnesses: Walter Rodeneye, Thomas Fypayn, knts., [and others]. Dated, 23 June, 1 Hen. V.

527. 1413.—Power of attorney by John Wellesleygh alias Wareyn, to Walter Gryffyn and William Chyld, to receive seisin of the lands, etc., in Wells and Woky, granted to him by John Arthur of Bysshepworth. Dated, 23 June, 1 Hen. V.

528. 1413.—Grant by Hugh Sebot, John Shillyngford and Eichard Dunsterre, chaplains, Thomas Brokhampton and William Shourt, to Margery, relict of Rolland Rake, her heirs and assigns, of a messuage and a carucate of land and 20 acres of meadow in Mertok, Somerset, which they lately had of the gift of the said Rolland and Margery by fine. Witnesses: Thomas Brook, Thomas Beauchamp, knts., Roger Seymour, Thomas Sampson, [and others]. Dated, 1 Aug., 1 Hen. V.

Four seals;

• (1) Round; H S in monogram, crowned.
• (2) The letter R.
• (3) An Agnus Dei; ECCE AGNVS DEI.
• (4) Octagonal signet; on a mount, a tree; Willi Short.

529.—Duplicate of no. 528. Mutilated.

Three seals; (1) and (2), as no. 528, (1) and (2).

(3) Oval; St. Michael overcoming the Dragon; legend uncertain.

530. 1413.—Power of attorney by Hugh Sebot, John Shillyngford, Richard Dunsterr, chaplains, Thomas Brokhampton, and William Shourt to John Pertriche, clerk, John Poyntyngton and William Presford, to deliver seisin to Margery relict of Rolland Rake, of a messuage and land in Mertok. Dated, 2 Aug., 1 Hen. V. Mutilated.

Round seal; as no. 528, (1).

531. 1413.—Lease by John Arthur of Bysshopworth, to Robert Honythorn, of 2 shops newly built in Byestewalles, Wells, for 50 years; rent 3s. 4d. Witnesses: John Toner, William Niter, [and others]. Dated, 15 Aug., Friday after Assumption of the Virgin, 1 Hen. V.

532. 1413.—Lease by John Alampton and John [Marchel] principals of the New Close, &c., to William Balch alias Pateweyn and John and Robert, his sons, for their lives, of land [place not stated]; rent 12s. 6d. Dated, Mertok, Feast of St. Katherine, Virgin, 1 Hen. V.

Round seal; a lombardic M.

533. 1413.—Lease by John Alampton and John Marchel, perpetual vicars of Wells Cathedral and principals of the New Close, to Thomas Hayward and Christine his wife, (fn. 1) John Cade and Alice, his wife, and William their son, for their lives, of land in La Venne; rent 24s. Dated, Mertok, Feast of St. Katherine, Virgin, 1 Hen. V.

Three seals;

• (1) I S in monogram.
• (2) Doubtful letter, perhaps D.
• (3) Same as (1).

534. 1414.—Lease by John Alampton and John Marchell, perpetual vicars of Wells, and principals of the New Close, to Hugh Kene, Agnes his wife, and William and Elizabeth their children, for their lives, of a close of land at Le Fenne in the parish of Mertok, and a house and barn there; rent 13s. 4d. Witnesses: Hugh Pyke, Robert Geffray, William Schort, [and others]. Dated, Mertok, feast of St. James, Apostle, 2 Hen. V.

Oval signet; a crowned T.

535. 1414–15.—Lease by Isabel Tanner, widow of Thomas Tanner of Wells, to John Parker alias Barbour, burgess of Wells, Joan his wife, and John their son, for their lives, of a shop with a solar above it, and half a cellar, in the corner opposite the high cross in the north [sic] part of Sadeler Street, Wells; rent 23s. 4d. Witnesses: Walter Dyer, master of the town of Wells, John Horewode, John Wycombe, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 20 Jan., 2 Hen. V.

Round seal; a ship (broken).

536. 1415.—Power of attorney by John Tobatte, to Master Ralph Canon, canon of Wells, and Roger Chapman, to deliver to Robert Burgh, clerk, his heirs and assigns, seisin of a cottage in Doultecote, and plots of land in the same and Wells-Forum. Dated, Wells, 21 April, 3 Hen. V.

Oval seal; an elaborate merchant's mark.

537. 1402.—Power of attorney by Thomas de Byngham, subdean of Wells, and president of the chapter in the absence of the dean, to Sirs John Bovyngdon and John Alampton, perpetual vicars of the church, to receive from Henry [Bowet], bishop of Bath and Wells, for the support of the vicars, seisin of houses, etc., which Richard Ferour and Agnes Riche held for their lives of the said bishop, in the middle of High Street, Wells, opposite La Horslane. Dated, Chapterhouse, Monday, the eve of the Assumption of the Virgin, 3 Hen. IV. See no. 504.

538. 1415.—To all, etc., Thomas Byngham, subdean, Gregory Butleigh and Thomas Frome, canons, and John Bovyngdon, vicar, now deceased, and John Alampton and John Axbrigge, vicars, now surviving, Greeting eternal in the Lord! Whereas John Waryn, late canon, enfeoffed us of all his lands, tenements, etc., in the town and parish of Wells, to fulfil his will and ordinance for a daily mass in the cathedral church at the altar of St. Mary Magdalen, called "Waryn's masse," by his charter dated 19 Richard II [1395, see no. 483]: we, the said John Alampton and John Axbrigge, have enfeoffed Master John Bernard and Master John Storthwayte, canons of Wells, John Newman, John Axmyster, John Knocston and John Pedewell, vicars, in all those lands, tenements, reversions, etc., late of the said John Waryn, to hold to them, their heirs and assigns, of the chief lords, by the accustomed services, to fulfill and perform the ordinances of the said John with regard to the said mass. Witnesses: John Panes of Purigge, John Toner, [and others]. Dated, SS. Simon and Jude, 3 Hen. V.

Two seals;

• (1) Oval; a crowned monogram,? C O.
• (2) Round; a bust to the dexter.

539. 1415.—Power of attorney by John Alempton and John Axbrigge, vicars of the cathedral, Wells, and feoffees of the lands, etc., of John Waryn, to John Morton and Thomas Holgode, to take possession of the lands, etc., of the above John Waryn, canon of Wells, in Wells, and deliver seisin thereof to Master John Bernard and Master John Storthwayte canons of Wells, and John Newman, John Axmyster, John Knocstone, and John Pedewell, vicars. Dated, SS. Simon and Jude, 3 Hen. V.

Oval seal; a bust to the dexter.

540. 1415.—Bond by John Kyng, tailor, of Wells, and Richard Melers, "setter," of the same, to Thomas Kyngesbury, in 40l., that the above John and Elizabeth his wife will abide by the arbitration of Ralph Canon and Thomas Shelford, canons of Wells, and John Horewode and Richard Pyers, burgesses, concerning lands in Wells, Bestwallys, late of John Waryn, canon. John Alampton, chaplain and vicar, to be umpire. Bated, 10 Dec., 3 Hen. V.

Octagonal seal; R M in monogram.

541. 1415–16.—Lease by William Moleyns to John Abbat and Isabel his wife, for their lives, of a messuage and 6 ac. of land in Purystrete; rent 5s. and doing suit at my court, as my other tenants do. Witnesses: William Dygoun, John Hounte, William William, [and others]. Dated, Purystrete, 31 Jan., 3 Hen. V.

542. 1416.—Defeasance of a statute staple for 300l., made by Richard Bruton, clerk, and William Gascoigne of Briggewater, to John Garton, esq., before Richard Whityngton, mayor of the staple of Westminster, relating to the hundred of Exton, the third part of the manors of Newton Plecy and Exton, the advowsons of the church of Haukerigg and the chapel of Newton Plecy, and lands in Bruton, Meryet, Langport, Briggewater, Chelton, Northboure, Westboure, Cheselade, Compton-Dunden, Cosyngton, Astington and Canyngton. Dated, 2 June, 4 Hen. V.

Seal (fragmentary); a shield of arms, in a gothic border, [? a chevron between 3 heads].

543. 1416.—Grant by John Kynge of Wells and Elizabeth his wife, to Stephen Merschton, Robert Herry, and others, their heirs and assigns, of all their lands and tenements, etc., in Wells and Woky. Witnesses: Richard Settere, John Horewode, Richard Perys, [and others]. Dated, Wells, Saturday after the nativity of St. John Baptist, 4 Hen. V.

544. 1416.—Power of attorney by John Kyng, burgess of Wells, and Elizabeth his wife, to Richard Milton and William Broun, tailors, burgesses of Wells, to deliver seisin of the lands and tenements mentioned in no. 543. Dated, as no. 543.

545. 1416–17.—Release by Thomas Litewyne of Sutton, Surrey, to Richard Bruton, clerk, and William Gascoigne of Briggewater, Somerset, their heirs and assigns, of all his right to the hundred of Exton, and the third part of the manors of Newton Plecy and Exton, and of the advowsons of Hawkerygg church and the free chapel of Newton Plecy, which John Garton of Eryth, Kent, esq., granted to the said Richard and William by fine, after the death of Richard Mayn, who held them for life from the said John. Dated, 1 Feb., 4 Hen. V.

Oval signet; a lombardic T crowned,

546. 1417.—Power of attorney by James Halap, esq., executor of the testament of Master Ralph Tregrision, late dean of Exeter, to Master John Wareyn, LL.B., to settle with the vicars of Wells, with respect to the obits and masses of Masters Stephen Penpel and Ralph Tregrision, with full power to deliver seisin of rents, houses, etc., in Moneryslane, Wells. Dated, Exeter, 7 Oct., 5 Hen. V, 1417.

Oval signet; a lombardic A.

547. 1417.—Grant by James Halopp, esq., of Cornwall, to John Orum, John Roland, John Knyght, John Alampton, William Purs, Robert Burgh, and John Smyth, clerks, their heirs and assigns, of all that lane or place in Wells, called Moneryslane, with the tofts and cottages adjoining, of which Master Ralph Tregresion, late dean of Exceter, enfeoffed the said James, together with Thomas Tredewer and Thomas Guynow, clerks, now deceased. Witnesses: Richard Setter, master or warden of Wells, Thomas Weye, Hilbrand Elewill, [and others]. Dated, 10 Nov., 5 Hen. V.

Seal as no. 546.

548. 1417.—Power of attorney by James Halopp to Reynold Bryte and John Waryn, clerks, to deliver seisin of the property mentioned in no. 547. Witnesses: Peter Sturte, John Mulys, Thomas Forde, [and others]. Dated, 10 Nov., 5 Hen. V.

Seal as no. 546.

549. 1417.—Release by John Verney, son and heir of John Verney, to John Huelet, Robert Skerne, John Blast and Richard Shirfeld, and the heirs and assigns of Richard, of all right to lands, etc., in Edeston, Stofordfeld and Stokecurcy, late belonging to Ralph Verney, his brother. Witnesses: William Poulet of Bere, William Cosse, William Hastyng, [and others]. Dated, Stokecurcy, 14 Nov., 5 Hen. V.

550. 1417.—Agreement made between the Ven. John Alampton and William Purs, perpetual vicars of Wells, and the other vicars of the one part, and John Wareyn, clerk, attorney of James Halopp, esq. [scutifer], of Cornwall, of the other part, whereby the said James will grant to Alampton and Purs, their heirs and assigns, the lane called Moneryslane, with its tofts and cottages, to be granted by them to the dean and chapter of Wells, to the use of the vicars, on condition of an anniversary being kept on the eve of the Purification every year, for the soul of Stephen Penpell, late dean, with solemn placebo and dirige and tolling of the bell [cum classico pulsando], on the evening before, and with a solemn mass on the morrow; and another similar anniversary on the eve of St. James the apostle for the soul of Ralph Tregresion, late dean of Exeter; and of distributing half a mark on each occasion among the clerks of the cathedral; and the vicars every day, at the altar of Corpus Christi near the tomb of the said Stephen, during the mass for the soul of Ralph de Shrewsbury, late bishop of Bath, shall cause to be said a special collect for the souls of the said Stephen and of Ralph de Tregresion; etc. Witnesses: Masters John Hody, precentor, William Langbroke, treasurer, Richard Harewell and Ralph Canon, canons of Wells, Richard Settere, Simon Bayly, Hildebrand Ellewell and Thomas Wey, burgesses of Wells. Dated, Wells, Monday after St. Denis, 1417, 5 Hen. V.

Two seals.

• (1) Round; on a mount a lamb passant reguardant; AS MEKE AS A LAMBE.
• (2) Round; within a cusped hexagon, a shield of arms; per pale, dexter, three swords, on a chief, a lion passant guardant; sinister, an open right hand couped at the wrist, in pale; S. THOMASE DERNBAVDE [?].

551. 1417.—Counterpart of no. 550.

Witnesses and date as no. 550.

552. 1418.—Power of attorney by Isabel Tannere, widow of Thomas Tannere of Wells, to Henry Hoggys and Thomas Walsingham, clerk, to deliver to Richard Mylton alias Tayllour, burgess of Wells, seisin of a burgage, &c., at the south end of Sadeler st., Wells, opposite the high cross there, called "La Condyt," adjoining on the north to a burgage of the annuellarii newly built, and lately acquired by the dean and chapter from William Northlode, and to Sadeler st. on the west; to hold, after the death of Isabel, to Richard Mylton and Margery his wife, and the heirs and assigns of Richard. Dated, Wells, 7 April, 6 Hen. V.

Round seal; a ship. Legend indecipherable.

553. 1418.—Lease by Stephen Merston and Robert Herrys of Glastonbury, to Robert Pade, weaver, Alice his wife, and Agnes their daughter, for their lives, of a tenement and garden in Byestwalles, Wells Forum; rent 6s. 8d. Lessees are to newly build a house, 14ft. by 10ft. Witnesses: Richard Setter, master of the town of Wells, John Cutte, Richard Sprot, [and others]. Dated, Wells, St. George's day, 6 Hen. V.

Oval seal; the letter M crowned.

554. 1418.—Power of attorney by John Wareyn, clerk, dean of the church of St. Karentoc, to Master John Orum, S.T.P., canon of Wells, to give seisin of rents, houses, etc., in Wells, Moneryxlane. Dated, Wells, 18 May, 1418, 6 Hen. V.

Round seal; in a gothic quatrefoil, a crowned heart between two flowers; PVR LEL AMER CORONE . . . Y A LE EVER [?].

555. [1418.]—Lease by Reynold Kentewode and John Sutbury, clerks, to William Gascoigne of Briggewater, ot the reversion of all lands, rents, etc., in Newton Plecy and Exton, etc., which Richard Mayn holds for life. Witnesses: Richard Cheddre, Matthew Coker, and Richard Boyton. Dated, Tuesday after St. John Baptist, 6 [Hen. V ?]. Injured by damp; partly illegible.

Two round seals.

• (1) A rose of six petals, each charged with an ermine-spot [?]; S' REGINALDI KENTEWODE CLERICI.
• (2) A double rose.

556. 1419.—Exemplification by Branda, cardinal priest of St. Clement, and chancellor of the Roman church, of certain constitutions agreed upon by Pope Martin V, and accepted by the council of Constance, for the reformation of the English church and of that of the lands and lordships of Ireland and Wales. Dated, Florence, in domo habitacionis nostrœ, 1419, Indict. 12, 17 April, 2nd year of the pope.

557. 1420.—Release by William Norton, citizen and clothier of London, to William Gascoigne, William Poulet, Hugh Kene, and Robert Burgh, clerk, and the heirs and assigns of Gascoigne, of all his claim to lands which the said William Poulet, Hugh and Robert hold of William Gascoigne, during the life of Richard Mayn, at a rent of 12l., in Neweton Plecy, Exton, and elsewhere in Somerset. Dated, 3 Nov., 8 Hen. V.

Seal; W N on a shield, a + or merchant's mark above it.

558. 1420.—Grant by William Norton, citizen and clothier of London, to William Wynard, Matthew Coker and Thomas Gascoigne, and the heirs and assigns of Thomas, of a rent of 12l. which Richard Mayn pays for lands in Somerset, held by him for life by grant of John Garton, esq., with reversion after Richard's death. Witnesses: Thomas Stowell, knt., Robert Hille, Richard Boyton, and Hugh Cary. Dated, 16 Nov., 8 Hen. V.

Seal, as no. 557.

559. 1420.—Lease by John Alampton and John Chamber, vicars of the cathedral of Wells and principals of the New pose, to Robert Cade, Agnes his wife, and Isabel their daughter, for their lives, of a meadow of 5 ac. and a lane leading to it as far as "Les Garres"; rent 18s., and paying a contribution to the church of Mertok quantum pertinet pro tanta tenura, and doing suit once a year at our court. Dated, Mertok, St. Katherine the virgin, 8 Hen. V.

Three seals.

• (1) Hexagonal; I S in monogram.
• (2) Hexagonal; the letter T.
• (3) Hexagonal; a heart, from which spring three slipped quatrefoils.

560. 1420–21.—Release by William Norton, citizen and clothier of London, to William Gascoigne, of 12l. rent from lands which William Poulet, Hugh Kene, and Robert Burgh, clerk, hold in Neweton Plecy, Exton, and elsewhere in Somerset, on lease from Richard Mayn during his life, with reversion after his death. Dated, 8 Hen. V.

Seal, as no. 557.

561. 1421.—Indented defeasance of a bond of 40l. made to the dean and chapter of Wells by Robert Yevelton, knt., on condition of his observing the arbitration made by the dean, Master John Hody, Master William Lambrok, Master Roger Harewell, Sir Robert Wodehele, and Sir John Roulond, canons of Wells, respecting a rent of 19½d. of lands late held by Simon Domerham of Northcory, Somerset. Dated, 25 May, 9 Hen. V.

Round seal, broken; ? an eagle rising.

562. 1421–22.—Surrender by Richard Mayn of Culee, Wilts, to William Gascoigne of Briggewater, his heirs and assigns, of all right which he has in lands and tenements and the advowsons of Haukerigge church and Newton Plesy free chapel, which he lately had by demise for life from John Garton in Newton Plesy and Exton, Somerset; except certain lands which the said Richard lately leased to William Poulet of Melcombe, Robert Burgh, clerk, and Hugh Kene. William is to pay 26s. 8d. yearly. Dated, 16 Feb., 9 Hen. V.

Seal; a right hand; legend indecipherable.

563. 1422.—Release by Richard Reed, to Richard Harewelle, clerk, William Hoddesfeld, Alexander Lynde, William Paston of Paston, and Thomas Poye, clerk, and their heirs, of all his right to the manors of Brandeston, Charesfeld and Westerfeld, Suffolk; the manors of Oxeburgh, Shipdene and Ryston, and 100 acres of land, 40 acres of pasture and 20s. rent in Salthous, Berton, Byndych and Henstede, Norfolk; and the manors of Radewelle, Compton Dureville, Hossokmore, and Loxton, Somerset; which Richard and the others lately had of the gift and quit-claim of Joan, widow of John Strecche, esq., according to the form of a certain fine. Dated, 5 July, 10 Hen. V.

564. 1422.—Agreement between John King and Elizabeth his wife of the one part and Thomas Kynggesbury of the other part, made by the mediation of Robert Hill of Spaxton; the Kings will grant by a fine a cottage in Wells Byestwalles and lands there to Thomas Kynggesbury, his heirs and assigns, and he will grant them another cottage and lands, for their lives, as well as a rent of 18s. yearly; etc. Dated, Wells, Thursday before St. Bartholomew, 10 Hen. V.

Oval seal; a lion dormant beneath a tree; AMI AMET LEL AME AVET [?].

565. 1422.—Exemplification by John [Chaundeler], bishop of Salisbury, at the request of Master Roger Harewell, archdeacon of Bath, canon of Wells, &c., of the letters apostolic of Pope Martin [V] in favour of the privileges of the dean and chapter of Wells. Dated, Rome, at St. Mary the greater, id. Oct., anno 5.

With certification of John de Okeborne, clerk, of the diocese of Salisbury, notary public, and his notarial signum.

Much injured by damp.

566. 1422.—Lease by Master Walter Medford, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to John Cole, canon, confrater and residentiary, for a fine of 20l., of the hospitium and messuage near Mounterielane where Master Ralph Canon lived, for ten years. Dated, Wells, Chapterhouse, 30 Nov., 1422, 1 Hen. VI.

Round seal; I C in monogram.

567. 1422.—General pardon by Henry VI to William Gascoigne of Briggewater. Dated, Westminster, 6 Dec., 1 Hen. VI.

Portion of the great seal, white wax.

568. 1423.—Release by John Rouland, clerk, to John Juyn, Robert Hill of Spaxton, John Stourton senior, Thomas Shelford, clerk, John Knyght, clerk, John Stortwayth, clerk, John Reynold, clerk, and John Codford, clerk, of all his right to the manor of Loxton, Somerset, the reversion of which Thomas Poye, clerk, gave to Rouland and the others, by a fine. Dated, Wells, 11 April, 1 Hen. VI.

569. 1423.—Incomplete copy of an inquisition taken at Wells before William Carent, the escheator, concerning the hundred of Exton, the third part of the manors of Exton and Newton Plecy, and of the advowsons of Haukerigge church and Newton Plecy free chapel. Dated, Tuesday after St. George, 1 Hen. VI.

570. 1423.—Release by John Holden and Joan his wife, late wife of John Garton, deceased, to Humfrey Stafford, Thomas Stawell, knts., John Juyn of Staunton Drewe, John Warre, Hugh Pyke, Hugh Cary, Robert Jeffrey, John Bavent, William Gascoigne of Brokley and Martin Jacob, of all their right to the third part of the manors of Exton and Neweton Plecy, and of the advowsons of Haukerigge church and the free chapel of Newton Plecy, by reason of Joan's dower after the death of John Garton. Dated, 16 June, I Hen. VI.

Octagonal signet; a crane in front of a tree.

571. 1423.—Release by Thomas Gascoigne, brother and heir of William Gascoigne of Bruggewater, to Humphrey Stafford, Thomas Stawell, knts., [and others, as in no. 570], of all his right to a rent of 12l., with the reversion of the hundred of Exton, the third part of the manors of Exton and Newton Plecy and of the advowsons of Haukerygge church and the free chapel of Newton Plecy. Et quia sigillum meum pluribus est incognitum, sigillum decani decanatus de Yvelchestre hiis apponi procuravi. Witnesses: Hugh Loterell, Edward Stradelyng, knts., John Arthure, Henry Viell, [and othersl Dated, Brokley, 24 July, 1 Hen. VI, 1423.

Two seals;

• (1) Octagonal signet; the letter I.
• (2) Pointed oval; in a canopied niche the Virgin and Child with a suppliant figure; S' DECANATUS DE YEUILCEST' [?].

572. 1423.—Release by Thomas Gascoigne, brother and heir of William Gascoigne of Briggewater, to John Juyn of Staunton Drewe, Hugh Cary, and William Gascoigne of Brokley, their heirs and assigns, of all right to all lands, etc., in Somerset, which he lately gave them by his charter. Witnesses: John Arthure, Henry Viell, Thomas Hundredman, [and others]. Dated, Brokley, 24 July, 1 Hen. VI.

Two seals, as no. 571.

573. 1424.—Release by Martin Jacob, John Bavent and Robert Jeffrey, to William Gascoigne, his heirs and assigns, of all their right to the hundred of Exton, the third part of the manors of Exton and Newton Plecy, and of the advowsons of Haukerigge church and the free chapel of Newton Plecy, which they lately held jointly with Humfrey Stafford, John Juyn, Thomas Stawell, knts., John Warre, Hugh Pike and Hugh Cary, now deceased, of the gift of Thomas Gascoigne. Witnesses: Robert Warre, Alexander Hody, and John Maunsell. Dated, 5 Aug., 2 Hen. VI.

Two round seals.

• (1) A bird [?].
• (2) A shield of arms, and uncertain legend.

574. 1424.—Grant by Nicholas [Bubwith], bishop of Bath and Wells, (in accordance with the royal licence for the appropriation), to the dean and chapter of Wells, of the advowson of the church of Bokelond-Abbatis, ad quœdam onera et alia pietatis opera juxta ordinationem nostram vel executorum nostrorum in hac parte faciendam supportanda et facienda imperpetuum. Witnesses: William Palton, Thomas Beauchamp, Thomas Stowell, knts., John Warre, John Arthur, [and others]. Dated, Woky, 16 Oct., 3 Hen. VI.

The common seal of the dean and chapter.

575. 1424.—Counterpart of no. 574.

Fine impression (edges chipped) of the seal of the cathedral church; [SIG]ILLVM ECCLESIE BEATI ANDREE DE. . . .

576. 1424.—Indenture by John [de Telesford], prior of the cathedral church of SS. Peter and Paul at Bath, and the chapter and convent, by which they covenant to provide two monks priests of the priory to celebrate daily masses for the souls of Nicholas Bubbewith, bishop of Bath and Wells, and for the souls of his parents, in the chapel which he newly built in the nave of the said church, in recognition that the said Nicholas gave 320 marks, for building certain new houses, and certain precious vestments, worth 200l., viz. unam casulam et duas tuniculas cum toto apparatu ad easdem de velvet crymesyn rubeo aurato, cum aurifrisys contextis et puderatis cum margaritis sive perulis, tres capas de panno aurato rubeo, unius secte, quarum due habent aurifrisas contextas cum duodecim apostolis et les morses sunt contexti [?] et cowchat' cum perulis ad modum rosarum, ac tercia habet aurifrisam contextam cum ymaginibus de duplici historia, necnon alia ornamenta et bona quamplurima. The commorative services are to be for "bisshop Nichol and for his fader and moder saulez and all his goode doers saulez and all ye goode doers saulez of this chirch," &c. Dated, Chapterhouse of the priory, Bath, 16 Oct., 1424.
Injured by damp.

577. 1424.—Counterpart of no. 576.

578. 1424.—Defeasance of a bond made by John Stafford, dean, and the chapter of Wells to Nicholas [Bubwith], bishop of Bath and Wells, in 1,000l., respecting the appropriation of the advowson of the church of Bokelond Abbatis to the dean and chapter, and to secure the payment of 20l. yearly to certain persons to be named by the bishop or his executors, for certain purposes in the cathedral and in the parish of Bokelond Abbatis. Dated, Wells, 17 Oct., 3 Hen. VI.

579. 1424.—Lease by Thomas Wayfere and Anderna his wife, to John Chew and Alice his wife, for their lives, of a close in Meselberugh, within the hundred of Wells Forum; rent 10s. Witnesses: John Tonour, John atte Chapell, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 20 Oct., 3 Hen. VI.

580. 1424–25.—General pardon by Henry VI to William Gascoigne of Bryggewater, Somerset. Dated, 20 Jan., 3 Hen. VI.

Imperfect impression of the great seal.

581. 1424–25.—Exemplification, under the seal of the court of Exchequer, at the request of the archdeacon of Wells, of an entry in the Liber Feodorum in the time of E[dward] late king of England, son of king Henry, preserved in the exchequer, to the effect that in the hundred of Northairy [sic] the canons of Wells hold the manor of Northairy in free alms by gift of king Richard. Dated, Westminster, 27 Feb., 3 Hen. [VI].

Fragment of the seal of the court of Exchequer.

582. 1425.--Lease by John Orum, John Roland, and John Knyght, canons of Wells, John Alampton, William Purs, Robert Burghe, and John Smythe, vicars of Wells, to John Wyche, burgess of Wells, and Joan his wife, for 60 years of a toft in Gropelane, and another in Monerislane, Wells rents 6d. and 4d. Witnesses: John Rocke, master of the town of Wells, Richard Settere, Richard Halle, [and others]. Dated Wells, 15 July, 3 Hen. VI.

Octagonal seal; an eagle rising, with a rose in its beak.

583. 1425.—Lease by Hugh Cary, Philip Hamontesham, Ralph Cowfolde and Henry Pynkowe, to Christina Hawle, Walter More, and Joan his wife, for their lives, of a tenement in Edyston in the parish of Stokecourcy; rent 3l. 4s. 8d. Dated, Michaelmas, 4 Hen. VI.

584. 1425.—Release by Alice Hunte, sister and heir of Walter Metford, clerk, and Robert Hunte, her son, to John Martyn, William Pawelot, William Gosse, William Scot, William Russell, clerk, John Bougey, clerk, and others, their heirs and assigns, of all their right to the manor of Bykenaldre, Somerset. Witnesses: John Juyn, John Stourton, Thomas Wyke, [and others]. Dated, 6 Nov., 4 Hen. VI.

585. 1426.—Lease by William Bye of Lydezard Bishop's, Joan his wife, John Memmys [?] and Alice his wife, daughter of the above William and Joan, for their own lives, to Master Richard Thomas of the co. of Gloucester, of the parcel of a messuage in Wells without, near the lane by which you go to La Mowntary, lately inhabited by Ralph Canon; rent 6s. 8d. Witnesses: Robert Honythorn, Nicholas Veel, Thomas Gylman, [and others]. Dated, Bishop's Lydezard, 3 Oct., 1426, 5 Hen. VI.

586. 1427.—Grant by John [Stafford], bishop of Bath and Wells, to William Baroun, esq., of the manor and hundred of Bysshoppeston, Berks, for life, without impeachment of waste; rent 8 marks. Dated, Wells, 1 April, 5 Hen. VI.

Confirmed by John Forest, dean, and the chapter of Wells, 8 April, 1427.

Confirmed by William Southebroke, prior, and the chapter of Bath.

587. 1428.—Lease by John Chidiok, knt., to Robert Ellewelle of Wells, gent., and Alice his wife, for their lives, of lands, tenements, pastures, etc., which the late John Russell formerly held within the borough and lordship of Wells; rent 20s. Witnesses: John Rocke, Richard Setter, John Cutte senior, Stephen Merstone, [and others]. Dated, St. Martin the bishop, 7 Hen. VI.

Two seals;

• (1) Octagonal signet; ? A L in monogram.
• (2) Round signet; an estoile.

588. 1428.—License by John Luttrell, esq., to John Juyn, knt., John Stourton senior, esq., John Reynald and John Codeford, clerks, executors of the testament of Nicholas Bubbewyth, late bishop of Bath and Wells, that they may grant to the dean and chapter of Wells, the manor of Bykenalre, (held of the grantor as of his manor of Dunster, at a rent of 2s. for all service) for certain pious uses. Dated, 26 Nov., 7 Hen. VI.

Fragment of a seal; an eagle, with the letters I C in the field.

589. 1428.—Duplicate of no. 588.

590. 1429.—Release by John le Bret to John Juyne, knt., John Stourton senior, John Codeford, clerk, and John Reynald, clerk, their heirs and assigns, of all his right to lands in Bikenalre, which formerly belonged to Richard Weyvile, son and heir of John Weyvile, my kinsman. Witnesses: John Lutrell, John Hill, John Werre, [and others]. Dated, Bikenalre, 31 Aug., 7 Hen. VI.

Round seal; shield of arms, three stags' heads cabossed; SIGILLU' IOHANNIS BRET.

591. 1429.—Lease by John Forest, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to John Kent of Depford, Wilts, and Agnes his wife, and John their son, for their lives, of a messuage and 3 tofts, 60 ac. of land and meadow, with pasture for 12 grossa animalia and 160 sheep, in Depford; rent 20s., payable to the escheator of the cathedral church, and one heriot on the death of the survivor of them, the said John Kent and Agnes, and another on the death of John the son, and doing suit twice a year at the lawful hundred courts [ad hundreda legalia] of Hetisbury, etc. Dated, Wells, Michaelmas, 8 Hen. VI.

592. 1429.—Lease by John Chidiok, knt., to Oliver Russell, Margaret his wife, and John their son, for their lives, of the reversion of all lands, tenements, etc., (except two dovecotes) in Wells, which he lately leased to Robert Ellewell and Alice his wife, for their lives, rent 20s., and which formerly John Russell held on lease from John Chidiok, father of the said John Chidiok, knt. Dated, 12 Nov., 8 Hen. VI.

Two seals;

• (1) Oval, an ivy-leaf.
• (2) A ram's head affronté.

593. 1429–30.—Power of attorney by John Forest, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Master John Cole, co-brother and steward of the church, to receive of John Juyn, John Stourton senior, John Reynald, clerk, and John Codeford, clerk, seisin of the manor of Bikenalre, Somerset. Dated, Wells, Chapterhouse, 1 Jan., 8 Hen. VI.

594. 1430.—Power of attornev by John Storthwayt, clerk, John Codeford, clerk, and John Reynald, clerk, to John Lang, Thomas Sutton, and William Bery, to deliver to John Forest dean, and the chapter of Wells, seisin of lands, etc., in Edeston and Stofordfeld, Somerset, which the grantors have of the gift of Hugh Cary, Philip Amotesham and Ralph Cowfolde Dated, Wells, 2 July, 8 Hen. VI.

595. 1430.—Power of attorney by John Shapwyke, Hugh Cary and John Southwode, rector of Spaxton, to William Payn, chaplain, and John Corpe junior, to deliver seisin of all their lands and tenements in Wells to Richard Oram and Agnes his wife. Dated, 12 July, 8 Hen. VI.

596. 1430–31.—Lease by Agnes, widow of Richard Oram, to Robert Pade and Alice his wife, for their lives, of a tenement in Byestwall, Wells Forum, and various parcels of land in the fields of Wells; remainder to Agnes their daughter, for her life; rent 8s. Witnesses: John Rocke, master of the town of Wells, Richard Setter, Richard Halle, William Wybbury, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 13 Feb., 9 Hen. VI.

Two impressions of an octagonal seal; a merchant's mark.

597. 1430–31.—Lease by Agnes, widow of Richard Oram, to Thomas Gylman and Joan his wife, for their lives, of a tenement in Byestewall, Wells, etc., with various parcels of land in the fields of Wells; remainder to Agnes their daughter, for her life; rent 12s. Witnesses: John Rocke, master of the town of Wells, Richard Setter, Richard Hall, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 13 Feb., 9 Hen. VI.

598. [? 1431.]—A document almost entirely obliterated; apparently a mandate by the official of Bath and Wells, relating to the prior of the Hospital of St. John the Baptist, Wells, and to the church of Pokulchurch, diocese of Worcester. Dated, 1431 [?].

Fragment of pointed oval seal; a saint under a canopy, below under an arch a kneeling figure.

599. 1437.—General pardon to the dean and chapter of Wells. Dated, Westminster, 27 March, anno 15 [Hen. VI].

600. 1437.—Licence by John Stafford, bishop of Bath and Wells, to John Raynold, Stephen Morpath, canons, and Thomas Wansford, John Haydour and Thomas Chew, clerks in Wells Cathedral, to grant to the dean and chapter, 2 tofts, 4 gardens, 12 acres of land, etc., in Hethorn in the lordship of Kyngesbury, Somerset; the grantees to pay the accustomed rent of 6s. 8d. and to do suit at the bishop's court at two law-days. Dated, Woky manor, 20 Aug., 1437, 15 Hen. VI, 13th year of the bishop.

Fragments of pointed oval seal of the bishop; a full length figure in a central niche, around which are smaller canopied tabernacles containing the Virgin and Child, and a saint; under an arch in base, the bishop, mitred, with his staff, adoring, between two shields of arms; dexter, a saltire couped between two crossed keys on the dexter and two crossed swords on the sinister; sinister, on a chevron, a mitre with its apparels [?], a border engrailed.