Charters: Nos. 601-700 (1438-75)

Nos. 601–700 (1438–75)

601. 1438.—Indenture between the dean and chapter of Wells, and Sir Nicholas Calton, archdeacon of Taunton, prebendary of Milverton prima, setting forth the details of the chantry services for commemoration of the said Nicholas, who has contributed 120l. by the hands of John Knocston and Thomas FitzWilliam, perpetual vicars, and principals of the Common Hall, to the Common Hall. Dated, Wells, 1 April, 1438, 16 Hen. VI. Witnesses: Bro. John Bartelot, prior of the house of St. John Baptist, Wells, Richard Dyer alias Wright, master of the town of Wells, John Austell, esq., John Godewyn and John Collys, burgesses.

Fragment of the seal of the dean and chapter.
Fragment of the seal of the precentor.

602. 1438.—Counterpart of no. 601.
Mutilated.

603. 1438.—Grant by John Alampton and Robert Burgh, clerks, to John Knocston, John Masday, Thomas Chelyngton, and Thomas Chewe, clerks, their heirs and assigns, of a lane [venella] in Wells called Moneryslane, with its tenements, tofts, cottages, etc. Witnesses: Richard Dyer, master of the city or town of Wells, William Vowell, Thomas Horwode, burgesses, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 10 May, 16 Hen. VI.

Two round seals;

• (1) On a mount, a lamb passant reguardant; AS MEKE AS A LAMBE.
• (2) R B in monogram.

604. 1440.—Lease by John Forest, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to John Coton, tailor, and Juliana his wife, for their lives, of a tenement and part of the messuage where John Cole, late canon, lived, in the corner of the street leading to the New College in La Mountry, Wells, on the east side of the street; rent 10s. Witnesses: John Austell, esq., William Gascoyn, Oliver Russell and Benedict Usk. Dated, Wells, day after Michaelmas, 19 Hen. VI.

605. 1440.—Lease by John Forest, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Thomas Chelyngton, clerk, communar, for 20 years, of a house with a solar, late extracted from a mansion where Mr. John Cole and Mr. Ralph Canon, canons, lately dwelt, on the east side of the street leading from the church to the New College in La Mountry, Wells; rent 3s. 4d. Witnesses: John Austell, esq., Oliver Russell, and Benedict Usk. Dated, Wells, 2 Oct., 19 Hen. VI.

606. 1440.—Grant by Joan Bykennaller, relict of John Bykennaller, to her sons, John and Robert, of her estate in all her lands and tenements of Bykennaller, paying to Joan 6s. 8d. the first year, and 13s. 4d. afterwards, for her life, and finding her maintenance, and specially reserving the chamber at the west end of the hall for her to live in. Dated, Bykennaller 10 Oct., 19 Hen. VI. English.

607a. 1440–41.—Accounts of Walter atte Yarde, reeve of the manor of Bikenaller, from Michaelmas, 19 Hen. VI, 1440, to Michaelmas, 20 Hen. VI, Richard Hore, steward.

607b. 1440–41.—Accounts of the same as bailiff of Stoke Gommer parsonage, from the nativity of St. John Baptist, 18 Hen. VI, to the same feast, 19 Hen. VI.

608, 609. (1) 1438.—Copy of the testament of Nicholas Calton, archdeacon of Taunton, containing bequests for commemorative services in the cathedral, at the altar of St. Calixtus, etc. Dated, 25 April, St. Mark's day, 1438. Witnesses: Richard Thomas, notary public, John Anger, my servant, [and others]. John Wansford, vicar, and William Gascoigne, executors.

Probate, 18 Jan., 1440[–41], by Thomas Bubwyth, archdeacon of Wells, LL.B., B.C.L., Masters Thomas FitzWilliam and John Sperhawke, LL.B., commissaries, deputies of Master Zanobius Mulakyn, Decretorum Doctor, dean of Arches, and of Henry [Chicheley], archbishop of Canterbury.

Pointed oval seal; very imperfect; a St. Andrew's cross on foliage.

(2) 1440–41.—The commission of the said Zanobius, directed to the said commissaries. Dated, London, 3 Jan., 1440.

Fragment of a pointed oval seal; in a niche, the figure of a saint.

610. 1440–41.—Grant by William Jevan, vicar of Stokegommere, and Robert Kente, rector of Sandforde, to Robert Bykennaller and Maude his wife, of all lands, etc., in Bykennaller, which the grantors late had by feoffment of John Bykennaller, Robert's brother; to hold to Robert and Maude and the heirs of their bodies, remainder to Robert and the heirs of his body, remainder to Robert's sister, Joan wife of Thomas Haule and the heirs of her body; remainder to the right heirs of John Bykennaller. Witnesses: William Cornew, esq., Richard Wynston, Robert Langdon, [and others]. Dated, Bykennaller, 12 Feb., 19 Hen. VI.

Octagonal signet; the letter W.

611. 1441.—Writ of Henry VI to the escheator of Somerset, to make an enquiry if it is to the damage, etc., if John Reynald, clerk, has license to grant the manor of Melesburgh, with the appurtenances, in the hundred of Wells Forum, and 3 messuages, land and meadow in Woky, Chedder, and Draycote, to the dean and chapter of Wells, for the support of a chaplain in a hospital in honour of our Saviour, the Blessed Virgin and All Saints, lately built in Wells, called Almessehous; for the good estate of the king, of John Stafford, bishop of Bath and Wells, the king's chancellor, while they live, and for their souls when dead, and for the soul of Nicholas Bubbewith, late bishop of Bath and Wells, etc.; and for the maintenance of 24 poor men. Dated, . . Oct., 20 Hen. VI.

612. 1441.—Inquisition taken at Axbrygge, 8 Oct., 20 Hen. VI, before William Neuton, escheator, in pursuance of the king's writ [no. 611]. It is not to the damage, etc.

613. [1441.]—Copy writ of Hen. VI to Robert Manter, keeper of the hanaper of our chancellor, to issue letters patent for the grant to the dean and chapter of Wells, of the manor and lands enumerated in no. 611. [No date. The license in mortmain was dated Nov. 20, 1441; see Gal. Patent Rolls.]

614. 1444.—Grant by John Mulleward of Dynre, to Alice his wife, for life, of a tenement with lands in Prestely in the parish of Doultyng, Somerset, with reversion to his right heirs. Witnesses: John North, Thomas Pewe, John Branche senior, [and others]. Dated, Dynre, Sunday before St. George, 22 Hen. VI.

Octagonal signet; the letter R.

615. 1444.—Lease by John Raynald, rector of Woky, Somerset, to John Edward junior and Alice his wife, of a messuage in Henton, for their lives; rent 3s. 4d. Witnesses: William Gascoigne, William Voel, John Chapelle, John atte Castelle, and John Brownyng. Dated, Wells, feast of St. George, 22 Hen. VI.

Oval signet: a crowned T.

616. 1444.—Grant by John Mulleward to Thomas Pewe and John Braunche, their heirs and assigns, of a tenement and land in Presteley in Doultyng, Somerset. Witnesses: William Downe, John Daungervile, Thomas Cooke, [and others]. Dated, Presteley, 7 May, 22 Hen. VI.

Octagonal signet; a swan rising, to the sinister. Legend uncertain.

617. 1444.—Grant by Thomas Pewe and John Braunche, to John Mulleward and Alice his wife, and the heirs of John, of all the lands, &c., which we lately had by grant of the said John Mulleward in Presteley in Doultyng, Somerset. Witnesses: William Downe, John Daungervile, Thomas Cooke, [and others]. Dated, Presteley, 10 May, 22 Hen. VI.

Two seals.

• (1) Octagonal; IHC.
• (2) Oval signet; some animal.

618. 1444.—Duplicate of 617.

Seals as no. 617.

619. 1454.—Judgment by Guillermus de Fondera, LL.D. bishop of Oleron, papal auditor, etc., in a cause between [Thomas de Beckington], bishop of Bath and Wells, and the prebendaries of that diocese, respecting the episcopal jurisdiction over their prebends.

Certified by Gulielmus Barralis, clericus Lodonensis, public notary, with his notarial signum. Dated, Rome, 3 Oct., 1454.
Mutilated.

620. 1445.—Release by John Carent junior, John Godwyn, Lewis, parson of Penne church, and William Bochell, to John Raynold, clerk, and his heirs, of all their right to the manor of Melesburgh and to all lands and tenements in Melesburgh and Wokyhole, in the hundred of Wells. Dated, 1 Sept., 24 Hen. VI.

Four seals.

• (1) Round signet; three chevrons, not on a shield; GRACE ME GOVERNE.
• (2) Round; a lion's face; legend destroyed.
• (3) On a shield: on a bend between two slipped trefoils, five lozenges; legend uncertain.
• (4) Round; a cock crowing, in the field the initials W B.

621. 1445.—Grant by John Beof and Edith his wife, to the dean and chapter of Wells, of a toft and garden to the west and south of the churchyard of St. Cuthbert's church, Wells, for the support of a chaplain and of the poor in the newly built house called Le Almeshouse. Dated, Wells, 12 Sept., 24 Hen. VI.

Two seals.

• (1) Oval; a crucifix, between two flowering trees. . . . SALVAT . . . CAPE TVA [?].
• (2) The resurrection of our Lord from the tomb; ECCE.

622. 1445.—Release by John Raynold, clerk, to William Carent, esq., Richard Chocke, John Sydenham junior, John Loty, John Godwyn and William Bochell, and their heirs, of all his right to land in the manor of Melesburgh, in the parish of Wells Forum. Dated, 4 Oct., 24 Hen. VI.

623. 1445–46.—Lease by John Gyffard, gent., to Robert Pade and Agnes his wife, and Agnes, Robert's daughter, for their lives, of a tenement and adjoining garden in Byestwalles, Wells, and lands in the fields of Wells Forum, near the Horspole, at Somersherde, at Asshencros, and in Carswelmede; rent 8s. Witnesses: William Cutte, Stephen Merston, and Nicholas Veel. Dated, Wells, 20 Feb., 24 Hen. VI.

624. 1445–46.—Lease by John Forest, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to John Cauntelough of Wells, Thomasina his wife, and Christina their daughter, for their lives, of a tenement and garden on the east side of Torre Lane, Byestewalles, Wells Forum; rent 13s. 4d. Witnesses: William Vouell, master of the town of Wells, John Godwyn, William Cutte, John atte Chapelle, and Nicholas Veel. Dated, Wells, 11 March, 24 Hen. VI.

625. 1446.—Mandate of Thomas [Beckington], bishop of Bath and Wells, to the archdeacons and other officials of the diocese, commanding them to require the beneficed clergy to call upon their parishioners to become members of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew in the cathedral church, and to aid the fabric by donations and bequests; with indulgence of forty days. Two collectors to be appointed in each parish. Dated, Woky manor, 20 April, 1446, 3rd year of the bishop.

626. 1446.—Mortgage by Robert Bykenaller, to John Sydenham, esq., his heirs and assigns, of a close in Bykenaller, called Nethercombhray, containing about 7 acres, to secure the repayment of 6 marks. Witnesses: John Loty, Henry Franke, and John Smythe. Dated, Bykenaller, 4 May, 24 Hen. VI.

Round seal; a goat's head, to the sinister.

627. 1446.—Exemplification of an act made in the Star Chamber at Westminster, 11 July last, by the advice of the lords of the council there, in these words:

The xj day of Juil, the yere et ca xxiiij. In the Sterred Chambre at Westminster, my lord of Caunterbury [John Stafford], chaunceller of Engelande, being there present, my lords the bysshops of Salesbury [William Ascough] and Bathe [Thomas de Bekington], and the marquys of Suffolk [William de la Pole], by the kynges commaundement; Reciting to the chanons of the churche of Welles, residencers of the same churche, that is to say, Maistres John Peterton, doctor of divinitee, Richard Cordon, doctor of lawe, John Raynold, John Bernard and William Fulford, peticioners of the bille, whereof the tenure ensieueth in this wise:

To the kyng, our souverain lord. Plese your highnesse, moost christen prince, of youre habundante grace and pitee, as the whiche have be fro youre tendre youthe oonly the protectour and defendour of alle Holy Churche, and most specially of this youre churche of Engeland, to consider and have in knowlache that maistir John Delabere, youre aumenere, hath sieued [sued] provision of the deanry of youre churche of Welles, wiche is of youre patronage and of the fundacions of youre progenitours, kynges of this youre noble reaume, and as yt [? yet] not obteygned th'effect thereof. The whiche suyte is directly contrary to the custumes, lawes, libertees, inheritances, franchises and statutes of this your noble reaume, to the perpetuell disheritance

of alle holy churche, colleges, and other, of theur free eleccion in this youre reaume forsayd, the which ever hath be eschewed by alle your noble progenitours in tyme passed. Considering the greet mischiefs and inconveniences that myght folowe therof, as in your statutes therupon maad more openly apperith; Considering also that for this cause divine service, in maner and fourme accustumed, is not had for you and your noble progenitours in youre churche forsayd, in especialle for fere of execucion of the sayd provision, and not in thaire defaute; Considering also that youre sayd churche hath hadde and hath divers libertees and privileges by grauntes of popes and legates, used of tyme that no mynde is, aswell of free elleccions there to be had, as alle other thinges therto longing. Wherefore, moost souverain lord, we, youre poure chapellains, bedemen and devoute oratours, residencers of youre churche forsayd, most lowly besechen your highnesse and grace, in the reverence of alle myghty God, his blessed moder, and saint Andrewe, in whos worship the saide churche is founded, that ye lust so to take your churche in your most gracious favour and supportacion, that it may enjoye suche enheritances, custumees, libertees, and franchises, as thei have had in tyme of your noble progenitours, aswell of theire free eleccion, as of alle other thing thereto longing, accordyng to youre othe in youre most devoute and royal unccion, and also to youre most gracious lettres to them directed, and accordyng to youre lawe and theyre tale of tyme that no mynde is; So that your sayd churche be not disherited in youre tyme by the sayd provision, in salvacion of the ryght of alle holy churche of this youre reaume, to the worship of God, his blessed moder, saint Andrewe, and alle the saintes of heven, or, witoute youre displesire, they to defende it, as lawe of your lande and of the churche wol, in alle the courtes where so evyr thay be: and this atte the reverence of God and in way of charite—

That he had in commaundement to yeve them answere to the sayd bille, saide that it was the kynges wille and entent that they sholde noon other wyse conseyve bot that he is and wolbe protectour and defendour of the churche of Welles, rightes, custumes, libertes and franchises, accordyng to his lawes and statutes, and accordyng to ther tytle, and [? as] he and his progenitours have alleway be; and is content and wol that thei procede to th'elleccion of dean there in maner and fourme as it hath ben accustomed and used in the time of his progenitours, and that thei enjoye such enheritance, oustumes, libertees and franchises as thei have had in tyme of his progenitours, aswell of theire free elleccion, as of alle other thinges therto longing; And that that thei pursiewe and defende theire right of the sayd churche, both in court spirituelle and temporelle, as it shalle be thought unto thaim liefful, any provision made by oure holy fader the pope to the sayd deanry not witstandyng; And that thei so doo, the kyng is ryght wel content, and it shalbe unto his highnesse noo displesire; And he wil that this answere be enacted bothe in his counsail and chauncellerie, and that to be exemplified undre his greet and prive seels.

Exemplification by letters patent, at the request of the said John, Richard, John, John and William. Dated, Westminster, 12 July, 24th year.

628. 1446.—General pardon to William Gascoigne of Wells, gent. Dated, Westminster, 21 July, 24th year [Hen. VI].

629. 1447.—Lease by Nicholas Carent, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Thomas Moleyns of Whitchurche, in Merschewodevale, Dorset, for 7 years, of their share in the parish church of Whitchurche, except wardships, marriages, reliefs, escheats, fines, heriots, forfeitures, etc.; rent 22l. 13s. 4d., the said Thomas binding himself to the dean and chapter in 20l. Witnesses: William Voel, Richard Dier, Thomas Horwode, and Thomas Nabbe. Dated, Wells, nativity of St. John Baptist, 25 Hen. VI.

Oval seal; a crowned W.

630. 1447.—Grant by William More of Naylsey, Somerset, esq., to Thomas Broun, Baldwin Broun, John Torell, John Whytyng and John More of Brydcombe, and the heirs of Baldwin, of the manor of Alverton, Somerset. Witnesses: Walter Rodney, knt., Thomas Wake, Richard Arthur, esquires, [and others]. Dated, Alverton, Saturday after St. Bartholomew, 25 Hen. VI.

631. 1448.—Grant by Robert Bykenaller alias Jaynkyns, to John Sydenham, esq., his heirs and assigns, of a close called Chalewyll in the parish of Bykenaller, containing 5 acres, situate near Le Holowwey, and a virgate of meadow adjoining. Witnesses: John Sydenham junior, John Loty, and Henry Franke. Dated, Bykenaller, 4 Oct., 27 Hen. VI.

632. 1449.—Grant by John Schyrwold alias Culbury, to Alexander Hody, his heirs and assigns, of all his lands, etc., in Westpennard, Somerset. Witnesses: Robert Cotye junior, William Laucok, and Richard Toker. Dated, Westpennard, 22 July, 27 Hen. VI.

Round seal; letter I, crowned.

633. 1449.—Lease by Alexander Hody to John Schyrwold alias Culbury, for his life, of lands in Westpennard; rent 6s. 8d. Witnesses: Richard at Welle, William Laaucok and Richard Toker. Dated, Westpennard, 22 July, 27 Hen. VI.
Seal, as no. 632.

634. 1449.—Power of attorney by Alexander Hody to Robert Sandhill, to receive seisin of lands, etc., in Westpennard, according to the charter of John Schyrwold alias Culbury. Dated, Westpennard, 22 July, 27 Hen. VI.

635. [cir. 1450.]—Distr[ibutio] obit[um] termini Sancti Johannis Baptiste. Statement of sums distributed [? in the cathedral of Wells], at the exequice of Robert Netelton, Hugh Greneford, John Channiel [?], Robert Buglegh, Luke de Membury, Richard Cobham, Ralph de Solopia, Henry Tesson, William Odecombe, John le Pole, Humfrey the clerk, David de Welweton, John Button, Matthew de Stratton, Henry London, Luke Melesburgh, Thomas Button, and Roger Parson; and of sums in processions on the eve of the Assumption, for the souls of Hugh Rows and William Odecombe, and on the eve of the nativity of the Virgin for the soul of John Hewysch, and on the eve of the exaltation of Holy Cross for the soul of Roger Jevelton, and on the feast of St. Gabriel for the soul of Hugh Rows. Total, 17l. 1s. 1d.

636. [16th cent.]—Part of a draft or copy of a certificate by the president and chapter of certain letters, written in the archives or registers of John Harewell, formerly bishop of Bath and Wells, concerning the church of East Coker, diocese of Bath and Wells.
Mutilated; not completed.

637. [1425–1443.]—Agreement between John Stafford, bishop of Bath and Wells, and the dean and chapter, relating to the gift by the former to the latter of 10 books whose titles are enumerated. They include books called Policronicon, primam partem hostien summa, Casum Bernardi, Hugo super decretis, Johannem Andree super regulis meis qui dicitur novella, quartum inne quintum, secundam partem hostien, hostien in summa, librum decretalium, librum apparatus Johannis de Dee [?] unacum questionibus Bartholomei Bricseus [?]. The bishop is to have the use of them for life. Dated, Wells, 3 April.

Injured by damp and otherwise Mutilated.

638. [1413–1423.]—Deed executed by Walter Modeford, dean, and certain canons of Wells, relating to a rent payable by Robert Yevelton, knt.; mentions the house of Mere, within the lordship of Northcory. Dated, Wells, Chapterhouse . . .
Mutilated.

639. [cir. 1450.]—Letter from P . . . to his brother and friend Sir John Barynton, vicar of Wells Cathedral, in which he mentions the sohools; asks that money may be sent to . . . . .; has no leisure to write more, but will write again within a short time; begs to be remembered to Sir John . . . . ., and to . . . . . Erchefound, and all other companions and friends. Dated, Oxford, Thursday next . . . . .

Signature at the bottom P . . .

On the margin a sketch of a female head with head dress of the fifteenth century.
Mutilated.

640. 1451.—Grant by Thomas Collys, to Alice his daughter, her heirs and assigns, of 2 ½ acres of land in Westpennard, in a place called Stykelynch. Witnesses: John Herres, John Balstake, and Walter atte Combe. Dated, Westpennard, Easter, 29 Hen. VI.

Rectangular seal; a tree (?).

641. 1451.—Grant by Sirs John Pedewell and Richard Huchyn, vicars-choral of Wells, and Thomas Pryde, executors of the will of Master John Reynold, late canon and subdean of the cathedral, to Sirs Thomas Chew and John Comb, perpetual vicars and principals of the New Close, and their successors, of 20l. and one pair of vestments for the daily repetition of a certain prayer for the soul of the said John Reynold at the mass of St. Mary celebrated in the chapel of All Saints within the close of the cathedral church aforesaid, for the soul of Sir William Cokeham. Witnesses: Masters John Storthwaytt, Thomas Boleyn and William Fulford, canons residentiary of Wells, William Vowell, master of the town of Wells, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 7 May, 1451, 29 Hen. VI.

Three seals.

• (1) A human heart held up by two hands, between the initials I P.
• (2) ? A dragon, curled round, and biting his tail.
• (3) The initial T, crowned.

642. 1452.—Release by William Gascoigne, to John Nedersole, of all his right to a tenement or burgage, with garden and dovecote, in Chamberleynstrete, Wells. Witnesses: Thomas Nabbe, master of the town of Wells, John Godwyne, [and others]. Dated, 5 Aug., 30 Hen. VI.

643. 1453.—Notarial instrument, certified by John Sluper de Bruwyke, clerk, notary public of the diocese of Cologne, &c., recording the appointment by John, Episcopus Pennensis, judge and commissary of the process to be carried out in a cause between Richard Feror alias Ferour [?], rector of the parish church of St. Michael ad placita in the city of Norwich, and William Fytell, asserted to be a clerk (fn. 1). Dated, Rome, in domo habitacionis nostrœ, sub anno nativitatis Domini, 1453, Tuesday, 10 April, 7th year of Pope Nicholus V.

Notarial signum of John Sluper.

This document appears to have formed the cover of an act book, the words Liber actorum Capitularium Wellensium being written on the back.

644. 1453.—Grant by John Knacston and Thomas Chewe, clerks, to Sir John Pedewell, chaplain, and Richard Huchons, chaplain, principals of the New Close of the vicars, and all their fellows and successors, of the lane in Wells called Moneryslane, with its tenements, tofts, cottages, etc. Witnesses: William Gascoigne, William Voel, and John Godwyne. Dated, 20 May, 31 Hen. VI.

Two seals.

• (1) Indistinct.
• (2) A crowned R.

645. 1453–54.—Grant by Alexander Hody, esq., to William Champe, Richard Hayne, and William Borugh, vicars of the church of Wells, their heirs and assigns, of all lands, etc., in the parish of Westpennard, which he lately had by the feoffment of John Schyrwold alias Culbury. Witnesses: Robert Warre, John Mauncell, and Philip Pymme. Dated, Brugewater, penult. Feb., 32 Hen. VI.

Round seal: as no. 647.

646. 1453–54.—Power of attorney by Alexander Hody, esq., to John Parker and John Russh, to deliver seisin of the lands granted by no. 645. Dated . . ., 32 Hen. VI.
Mutilated.

647. 1453–54.—Release by Alexander Hody, esq., to William Champe, Richard Hayne, and William Borugh, vicars of the church of Wells, their heirs and assigns, of all his right to the lands granted by no. 645. Same witnesses and date.

Round seal: a lion's face, and the name HODY.

648. 1455–54.—Grant by Thomas Sergeant alias Colles senior and Christina his wife, to John Trugg of Corscombe and Richard Wyntryngham alias Clerke of the same, their heirs and assigns, of all their lands, etc., in the vill and fields of Westpennard, Somerset. Witnesses: John Balstafe, Thomas Busshe, Richard Norlode, [and others]. Dated, Westpennard, 7 March, 32 Hen. VI.

Two round seals.

• (1) The letter T.
• (2) Two triangles interlaced.

649. 1453–54.—Power of attorney by Thomas Sergeant alias Colles senior and Christina his wife, to John Deverell of Westpennard and John Balstake of the same, to deliver seisin of the lands in Westpennard, granted by no. 648. Witnesses: Thomas Busshe, Richard Norlode, Walter Somersete, [and others]. Dated, Westpennard, 7 March, 32 Hen. VI.

Round seal; two triangles interlaced.

650. 1454.—Release by John Shyrwold alias Culbury, to William Champe, Richard Hayne, and William Borugh, vicars of Wells, their heirs and assigns, of all his right to all the lands, etc., late of Alexander Hody, esq., in Westpennard, Witnesses: John atte Water, master of the town of Welles, William Voel, John Godewyn, and Thomas Horewode, co-burgesses of Wells. Dated, Wells, 1 April, 32 Hen. VI.

Round seal: a crowned I.

651. 1454.—Power of attorney by Thomas Collis senior and Christina, his wife, to Thomas Collis junior, their son, and Richard Norlode of Westpennard, to deliver seisin of 18 ac. of land and meadow in the fields of Westpennard to Richard Huchen, John Olyver, William Bispam and John Lemman, clerks, their heirs and assigns. Dated, Westpennard, 5 April, 32 Hen. VI.

Two round seals.

• (1) The letter T.
• (2) The letter R, crowned.

652. 1454.—Release by Thomas Collis senior and Christina his wife, to Richard Huchen, John Olyver, William Bispam, and John Lemman, clerks, their heirs and assigns, of all right to 18 ac. of land and meadow in the fields of Westpennard. Witnesses: John Deverell, Richard Norlode, [and others]. Dated, Westpennard, 9 April, 32 Hen. VI.

Two seals, as no. 651.

653. 1454.—Release by Thomas Collis junior, son and heir of Thomas Collis and Christina his wife, to Richard Huchen, John Olyver, William Bispam and John Lemman, clerks, their heirs and assigns, of all right to the above 18 ac. Witnesses: Walter Somersete, John Stone, John Deverel, [and others]. Dated, Westpennard, 12 April, 32 Hen. VI.

Round seal; H T [?] in monogram; GOD OF AL . . .

654. 1454.—Lease by Nicholas Carent, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Sir John Pedewell, vicar of the cathedral church, of the reversion of a barn and barton, lands, and fishery in the water called Redclyffeyoo, now held by John Benysham for life, in Bydesham and Redclyffemede, Somerset, for 50 years after the termination of the present term; rent 57s. 6d. and doing suit of court at Bydesham. Witnesses: John atte Water, master of the town of Wells, William Voel, John Godewyn, William Gascoyn, and Thomas Nabbe, co-burgesses of the town. Dated, Wells, I Nov., 33 Hen. VI.

655. 1454.—Grant by John Pedewell, clerk, to William Champe and Thomas Been, chaplains, principals of the New Close of vicars, and their successors, of all his lands, tenements, etc., in Dultyngcote and Long Sutton, which he had of the gift of Roger son and heir of John Holcombe. Witnesses: William Gascoigne, Thomas Horewode, and Thomas Nabbe. Dated, 5 Nov., 33 Hen. VI.

Seal: two hands holding a heart, between initials I.P. Legend uncertain.

656. 1454–55.—Grant by Robert Bikenalre alias Jenkyne, to Nicholas Carent, dean, and the chapter of Wells, of all his lands, etc., in Bikenalre alias Bikenaure, Somerset. Witnesses: Walter Rodeney, knt., William Carent, esq., William Gascoigne [and others]. Dated, 1 Feb., 33 Hen. VI.

657. 1454–55.-Power of attorney by Nicholas Carent, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Thomas Tendebury and William Pounseforde, to receive seisin of lands in Bikenalre, granted by no. 656. Dated, 1 Feb., 33 Hen. VI.

Fragment of a pointed oval seal: a figure of St. Andrew on his cross.

658. 1455.—Bond in 40l. from Robert Bikenalre alias Jenkyns, to Nicholas Carent, dean of Wells, and the chapter. Condition indorsed. To secure peaceful possession of lands granted by no. 656. Dated, 1 July, 33 Hen. VI.

659. 1455.—General pardon to the dean and chapter of Wells. Dated, Westminster, 20 October, anno 34 [Hen. VI].

Imperfect impression of the great seal.

660. 1455.—Grant by Thomas Staynour alias Muleward of Wells, kinsman and heir of John Muleward, late of Dynre, to John Tregodek, gent., his heirs and assigns, of a tenement in Prestely in Doultyng. Witnesses: John Faux, John Dultyng of Shepton Malet, [and others]. Dated, Prestely, 26 Dec., 34 Hen. VI.

Round seal: a merchant's mark; THOMAS CHARLESTON [?].

661. 1458–59.—Power of attorney from John Olyver, burgess of Wells, to John Olyver junior and William Edmond, to deliver seisin to Thomas Smyth, of a messuage on the north side of Toukerestrete, Wells, which the said John lately had of the gift of Isabel Tanner. Dated, Wells, 20 Feb., 37 Hen. VI.

662. 1459.—Lease by Thomas Smyth of Glastonbury to John Olyver senior and Margaret his wife, for their lives, of a messuage in Toukerestrete, in the parish of St. Cuthbert, Wells, which he lately had of the feoffment of the said John Olyver; rent, a red rose. Witnesses: Robert Stawell, Richard Erle, William Edmond, [and others]. Dated, 4 Sept., 38 Hen. VI.

Oval seal: a crowned T.

663. 1460.—Lease by Nicholas Carent, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to Thomas Browne of Wells, yeoman, and Alice his wife, for their lives, of the reversion of the manor of Okehampton, with housebote, &c., within the parish of Wyvelescomb, after the decease of Agnes widow of William Wreyntmour; rent 100s. Dated, Wells, 23 July, 38 Hen. VI.

Round seal: an eagle displayed.

664, 665. 1460.—Counterpart of no. 654.

To this deed is attached a copy of the court roll of Bidesham, in the time of John Spekynton, steward, of the admission of the within mentioned John Pedewell, to the premises. Dated, 13 Oct., 39 Hen. VI.

666. 1460–61.—Release by Thomas Staynour alias Milward of Wells, kinsman and heir of John Mileward of Dynre, to Hugh Sugar, John Midelton, and Richard Huchyns, clerks, their heirs and assigns, of a tenement in Presteley, in the parish of Dultyng. Witnesses: William Edmund, Walter Baker, and John Vowle, burgesses of Wells. Dated, Wells, 10 Feb., 39 Hen. VI.

Seal as no. 660.

667. 1461–62.—Release by Nicholas Matrevers of Wells, to John Pedwell and Richard Burnell, their heirs and assigns, of all his right to a messuage and lands in Wells. Dated, Wells, last of Feb., 1 Edw. IV.

668. 1461–62.—Award by Humfrey, Lord Stafford of Southwyke, Master Nicholas Carent, dean of Wells, and Richard Chok, justice of the Bench, in a dispute between John More of Naillesy, Somerset, son and heir of William Bithemore, esq., and Robert Deye alias Kykke of Merke in the same county, whereby lands and tenements in Wurcheston, La Folde, Wynnesmere, and Burneham, Somerset, are awarded to the said John More, as kinsman and right heir of Baldwin Countevyle, late lord of Alwarton, viz. son of William, son of Joan, daughter of Elizabeth, daughter of Richard, son and heir of the said Baldwin. Mutual releases to be executed, etc. Dated, Wells, 24 March, 2 Edw. IV.

669. 1462.—Lease by John Kaynell and Cristina his wife, daughter and heir of William Gascoigne, to John Fardyng junior, Joan his wife, and Joan their daughter, for their lives, of a tenement and lands lying to the north of La Lynche, and two closes called Closemede in North Newton, subject to the life estate of Robert Pecche; rent 38s. Witnesses: Robert Halswelle, John Mauncell, and William Magot. Dated, 11 July, 2 Edw. IV.

Round seal; the letter N crowned.

670. 1463.—Fine between Henry Hayne, chaplain, plt., and John Kaynell and Cristina his wife, daughter and heir of William Gascoigne, def., of the hundred of Exton, and of 11 messuages, lands and rents in Exton, Haukerigge, Wemedon, Blakelond, Est Chilton, Cheselade, Chelton, Wells, and Astyngton, a third part of the manors of Exton and Neuton Plecy, of a mill in Westboure, and the advowsons of the church of Haukerigge and the free chapel of Neuton Plecy; to hold to John and Cristina and the heirs of their bodies; remainder to John Shelford, clerk, John Pedewell, clerk, Walter Baker, and the heirs of John Pedewell. Dated, Easter term 3 Edw. IV.

671. 1464.—Lease by Peter Orum, to William Wyotte and Agnes his wife, and John their son, for their lives, of a tenement and lands in Byestwalles, Wells; rent 9s. Witnesses: William Vouell, John Attewater, and Kichard Webbe. Dated, Wells, Christmas Day, 4 Edw. IV.

672. 1329–30.—Grant by Philip de Drokenesford, to his son Philip, and his heirs, of lands, tenements, services of free men and villeins, etc., in Ochampton, in the parish of Wyvelescoumbe, paying 11l. yearly to John de Clyvedon, knt., during the life of James Tryvet, and after his death 5l. yearly to the grantor. Witnesses: Richard de Stapelton, John Reygny, John de Stures [?], Robert de Popham, William Peverel, Richard de Wyntonia, knights. Dated, Bedeham, 1 March, 4 Edw. III.

673. 1467.—Lease by John Huchyns, escheator of the cathedral, Wells, with the assent of Master Nicholas Carent, dean, and the chapter, to Thomas Frampton and Cristina his wife, for 20 years, of a tenement in Byestwalles, Wells; rent 8s. Witnesses: William Vouell, master of the town of Wells, John Atwater, and John Sadeler. Dated, Ladyday, 7 Edw. IV.

Fragment of a seal with gothic tracery.

674. 1467.—Power of attorney by John Kaynell and Cristina his wife, to William . . . . ., Edmund . . . . ., William Ruynon and William Popham, to deliver seisin to Hugh Sugar, Richard Swan [canons], Thomas Chewe, Robert Catour, John Combe and Richard Hayne, vicars of Wells, of a third part of the manor of Newton Plecy and of the advowson of the free chapel there. Dated, 15 Oct. [?], 7 Edw. IV.

Illegible in places; mutilated. See no. 677.

Two round seals.

• (1) A shield of arms, on afesse, between 6 arrows bendwise, 3 blackamoors' heads.
• (2) The letter C.

675. 1467.—Deed poll. Stephen Morpath and John Spekyngton, canons of Wells, William Northam and Thomas Chewe, lately deceased, and Richard Hochyns and John Combe, vicars of the cathedral church, Salutem in domino sempiternam. Huchyns and Combe, as feoffees of the lands and tenements, etc., of John Waryn, sometime canon, enfeoff Masters John Rich and John Austell, canons residentiary, John Manyman, Andrew Grantham, John Toker, John Bawdon, John Aleyn, Richard Pomerey and John Warder, vicars perpetual, their heirs and assigns, in all the lands and tenements of the above John Waryn, in the borough and parish of Wells, Witnesses: Master William Witham, dean, Masters Walter Osborn and Thomas Mersh, canons, [and others]. Dated, 26 July, 7 Edw. IV.

676. 1467.—Will of John Pedewell, canon residentiary of Wells, and perpetual vicar of Wynscomb, diocese of Bath and Wells, containing various bequests to churches, the vicars principal of the New Close, the annuellars, chaplains, etc. Executors, John Wansford, subdean, Thomas Chiew and Richard Hayne, vicars, and William Edmond, bailiff of the liberty of Wells. Dated, 1 Aug., 1467.

Probate 15 Aug. same year, in the chapel of Blessed Mary the Virgin near the cloister, before Thomas Overay, LL.B., commissary.

677. 1467.—Grant by John Kaynell and Cristina his wife to Hugh Sugar, Richard Swan, clerks, canons of Wells, Thomas Chewe, Robert Catur, John Combe, and Richard Hayne, vicars of Wells, their heirs and assigns, of the third part of the manor of Newton Plecy, Somerset, and the advowson of the free chapel there, for the use and profit of the vicars-choral; paying 5l. 6s. 8d. yearly to the grantors during their lives; which property the said John and Cristina had by grant from Henry Hayne, chaplain, by fine levied in Easter term, 3 Edw. IV [no. 670]. Witnesses: Reynold Stourton, knt., Thomas Malet, Robert Brente, William Ruynon and William Seward, esq. Dated, Newton Plecy, 15 Oct., 7 Edw. IV.

Five seals.

• (1) The monogram H S, DEO HONOR.
• (2) A swan rising; S. RICHARD SWAN.
• (3) A slipped trefoil.
• (4) The letters L B, crowned.
• (5) A stag lodged.

678. 1467.—Grant by Richard Smale of Warrewik and John Smyth, to Roger Radforde of Warwick, for life, of all lands, tenements, etc., in the town and fields of Wells, which they lately had by feoffment of the said Roger and Isabel his wife; remainder to Elizabeth and Margaret, the daughters of the said Roger and Isabel, and the heirs of their bodies; remainder to Thomas Barnewell, son of the said Isabel, and the heirs of his body; in default, the property to be sold, and the proceeds used for the souls of Richard Mylton and Margaret his wife, and Isabel their daughter. Witnesses: John Mantyn, parochial chaplain of St. Nicholas, Warwick, John Lenche, Richard Reignolde, [and others]. Dated, Warrewik, feast of St. Clement, pope and martyr, 7 Edw. IV.

679. 1467–68.—Bond by John Bythemore of Alwarton, Somerset, and William Bythemore his son and heir, to John Waynesford, Thomas Chewe, Richard Hayne, clerks, and William Edmonde, in 100l. to enfeoff them in lands in the manor of Overwere, Somerset, which John Pedewell, clerk, late held. Dated, 20 Jan., 7 Edw. IV [A.D. 1468].

Two round seals.

• (1) A shield of arms, barry of ten, over all a chevron. SIGILLUM IOH'S . . . MO . . . VILLE [?].
• (2) An oak sprig with four acorns.

680. 1467–68.—Duplicate of no. 679.

681. 1468.—Fine, between Hugh Suger, Richard Swan, Thomas Chewe, Robert Catur, John Combe and Richard Hayne, clerks, plts., and John Kaynell and Cristina his wife, and John Pedewell, def., of the third part of the manor of Neweton Plecy, and the advowson of the free chapel, to hold to the plaintiffs and the heirs of Thomas. Warranty by the deforciants, for themselves and the heirs of Cristina. The plaintiffs gave 100l. Dated, Easter term, 8 Edw. IV.

682. 1468.—Release by Nicholas Hervey of Brokkely, to Hugh Sugar, Richard Swanne, canons of Wells, Thomas Chewe, Robert Catour, John Combe, and Richard Hayne, vicars, their heirs and assigns, of all his right to the third part of the manor of Newton Plecy, and the advowson of the free chapel of the said third part. Witnesses: Reynold Stourton, knt., John Mauncell, and William Jacob. Dated, 6 June, 8 Edw. IV.

Round seal; a bird, standing among plants.

683. 1468.—General pardon to Hugh Sugar, John Pope, and Richard Swan, clerks, executors of the will of Thomas de Bekyntona, late bishop of Bath and Wells. Dated, Westminster, 24 Aug., 8 Edw. IV.

684. 1468.—Undertaking by John Henton, prior of the conventual church and priory of Bruton, of the order of St. Augustine, in the diocese of Bath and Wells, and the convent of the same, to carry out certain detailed services in commemoration of Master Hugh Sugar, LL.D., treasurer of Wells, whom they admit into their spiritual confraternity. Dated, Chapterhouse, 22 Sept., 1468.

Fragment of a seal: the Virgin and Child, on each side a vesica containing the head of a saint.

685. 1468.—Undertaking by Walter Newbery, abbat of St. Augustine's, Bristol, to William Witham, dean, and the chapter of Wells, in consideration of a gift of 40l. by Hugh Sugar, LL.D., treasurer of Wells, to the abbey, and of other benefits and loans to the same, to admit the said Hugh to the spiritual fraternity of the abbey, and to celebrate certain detailed commemorations in honour of the same. Dated, Chapterhouse of St. Augustine's, 25 Sept., 1468, 8 Edw. IV.

686. 1468.—Grant by Hugh Sugar, Richard Swan, canons, Thomas Chewe, John Combe, and Richard Hayne, chaplains and vicars of Wells, to William Wytham, dean, and the chapter of Wells, of the third part of the manor of Newton Plecy, and the advowson of the free chapel there, for the use and profit of the vicars-choral of Wells, under conditions detailed in previous indentures between John Keynell and the vicars-choral. Witnesses: Walter Baker, master of the town of Wells, William Vowell, Richard Hampton, [and others]. Dated, Chapterhouse, Wells, 5 Nov., 1468, 8 Edw. IV.

Five round seals.

• (1) H.S. in monogram; DEO HONOR.
• (2) A swan rising; S. RICHARD SWAN.
• (3) A slipped trefoil.
• (4) A stag lodged.
• (5) T R conjoined.

687. 1468.—Power of attorney by the dean and chapter of Wells, to Ralph Gardener, vicar of [? Newton], and William Whitkombe, to receive seisin of the third part of the manor of Newton Plecy, etc., from Hugh Sugar, Richard Swan, and others. Dated, Wells Chapterhouse, 5 Nov., 8 Edw. IV.
Mutilated.

Fragment of the seal of the dean and chapter.

688. 1468.—Fragment of a paper roll, containing rough drafts of documents relating to the manor of Newton Plecy:—

• (1) Grant to the dean and chapter of Wells by Hugh Sugar and others, of the third part of the manor, &c., 8 Edw. IV; [no. 686].
• (2) Power of attorney from Hugh Sugar and others to give seisin of the manor, 5 Nov., 8 Edw, IV.
• (3) Power of attorney from the chapter to receive seisin of the manor, same date; [no. 687].

689, 1469.—Confirmation of no. 691. Witnesses: Thomas Rodenay, William Vowell, and John Attwater. Dated, 10 Oct., 9 Edw. IV.

Small fragment of seal of the abbey of Muchelney; SS. Peter and Paul.

690. 1469.—Lease by William Withham, dean, and the chapter of Wells, to John Waynesford, clerk and canon of the cathedral, Thomas Chywe, Richard Hayne, clerks and vicars of the same, and William Edmound, executors of the testament of John Pedewell, late canon, of a barn and barton and lands, with a fishery in the water called Redclyffeyoo, all of which the said John Pedewell late held at Byddysham, for 99 years; rent 57s. 6d. Witnesses: Thomas Rodeney, esq., Walter Baker, master of the city of Wells, William Vowell, John Attewater, [and others]. Dated, St. Edmund's day, 1469, 9 Edw. IV.

Seal of the dean and chapter; fragmentary.

691. 1469.—Lease by William Crokehorn, abbat, and the convent of SS. Peter and Paul of Mochelney, co. Somerset, to Master William Wytham, dean, and the chapter of Wells, for 90 years, of a messuage (fn. 2) in a street called La Mountry, Wells, formerly ruinous and now rebuilt by Master Hugh Sugar, treasurer of the cathedral, at his own expense, held by the abbat and convent by reason of their prebend of Ilmystre; for the use and profit of the vicars-choral and of the chaplain of the chantry of St. Saviour, the Blessed Virgin, and all the elect of God at the altar of Holy Cross in the north part of the cathedral, made according to the ordinance of the said Master Hugh Sugar; rent 3s. 4d. Witnesses: Thomas Rodenay, William Vowell, and John Attwater. Dated, 29 Sept., 9 Edw. IV.

Round seal, imperfect and indistinct: St. Peter and St. Paul seated, under canopies in niches; on the sinister a shield of arms, a saltire. Legend destroyed.

692. 1469–70.—Release by the parties named in no. 677 to the same of the same property. Dated, 20 Feb., 9 Edw. IV. Et quia sigilla nostra pluribus sunt incognita, sigillum officii magistratus civitatis Wellie presentibus apponi procuravimus.

Three seals.

• (1) As in no. 674 (1).
• (2) Octagonal; the letter I.
• (3) Seal of the office of master of the city.

693. 1470.—Assignment by William Stodham of Wells, to Henry Goddislond, his heirs, executors or assigns, of his estate and term in a tenement in Byestewallys, and of land lying under Randolcrofte, in the lane leading to Le Mountrey, held by grant from John Wolley and demise from John Bobe [?], late prior of the Hospital of St. John Baptist at Bath, and the brethren there, by two indentures delivered to Henry; rent to the said prior and brethren, 4s. 8d. Witnesses: William Vowell, master of the city of Wells, Richard Webbe, Walter Glasyer, [and others]. Dated, Wells, All Saints' day, anno ab inchoacione regni regis Henrici sexti quadragesimo nono et readepcionis sue regie potestatis anno primo.

Round signet; an oak leaf between four acorns.

694. 1469.—Ordinances made by Hugh Sugar, LL.D., treasurer of the cathedral church, and vicar in spirituals of Robert [Stillington], bishop of Bath and Wells, ipso reverendo patre extra suam diocesim in remotis agente, respecting the tenure and occupation of the messuage of the abbey of Mochelney in the street called Le Mountre, Wells, lately rebuilt by him, and leased to the dean and chapter for 90 years for the benefit of the vicars-choral and the chaplain of St. Saviour's chantry. The text of this document to be read on the day of St. Matthew the Apostle [21 Sept.] in the vicars' Common Hall, before the election of the new principals, the vicars present to have lagenam vini seu ipsius valorem in poculentis aliis ipsis ad eorum velle . . . inter se ad bibendum. Dated, Wells, 4 Oct., 1469.

Ratified by John Combe and John Hylle, vicars-choral and principals. Dated, Common Hall, 6 July, 1472.

Seals.

• (1) Pointed oval; in three canopied niches, the figures of St. Andrew between St. Peter and St. Paul; in base a shield bearing the emblems of the three saints. Legend: SIGILLUM VICARIATUS EPISCOPATUS BATHONIENSIS ET WELLENSIS.
• (2) Round; a somewhat similar shield to that above described; injured; ? . . . AULE VICAR' CATH' WELLENSIS; as no. 703.

695. 1473–74.—Will of Henry Goddislond; desires to be buried in the churchyard of St. Cuthbert's, before the image of the Holy Trinity in front of the porch of the church; sundry bequests to the various altars in the church, the alms-house, etc.; a tenement to his wife Juliana, with remainder in certain events to St. John's Hospital, Wells. Executrix, the said Juliana. Dated, 10 Jan., 1473.

Proved before Thomas Overay, LL.B., precentor of Wells, commissary, 23 Jan., same year.

Pointed oval seal; in a niche with two canopied compartments, the Virgin and Child on the dexter and St. Andrew on the sinister; in the base under an arch an ecclesiastic in adoration; . . . COMMISSAR' GEN'AL' EP'I . . . WELL.' [?].

696. 1473–74.—Attornment by Walter Sparke, Joan his wife, and Thomas Sparke, their son, (tenants for life under John More, esq., of lands, &c., in Alwerton and Overwere, which were by him granted to William Dodesham [?] and Thomas Tremayll, their heirs and assigns), to the said William and Thomas. Dated, 18 March, 14 Edw. IV.

Round seal; a crowned W.

697. 1474.—Grant by Thomas Barnewell of London, fishmonger, son and heir of John Barnewell late of Warrewik, to William Leycrofte and Robert Leycrofte, their heirs and assigns, of lands, &c., in Wells, which will descend to him after the decease of his mother, Isabel Barnewell, with power to James Greene to deliver seisin. Witnesses: John atte Water, Walter Baker, William Edmond, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 3 Sept., 14 Edw. IV. Richard Vowell, master of the town, has on request affixed the seal of his office.

Round seal; an obscure device and motto.

698. 1474.—Power of attorney by William Leycrofte and Robert Leycrofte to Richard Vowell of Wells, gent., and Walter Parys of the same, gent., to receive from Thomas Barnewell of London, fishmonger, son and heir of John Barnewell late of Warrewyk, seisin of lands in Wells. Dated, 12 Dec., 14 Edw. IV.

699. 1474–75.—Power of attorney by William Champe and Richard Hayne to William Ruynon senior and John Hill, to take possession of lands in Westpennard, Somerset, and deliver seisin thereof to John Manyman, Thomas Elys, John Touker, and others, their heirs and assigns. Dated, Wells, 9 March, 15 Edw. IV.

Round seal; a shield of arms; a chevron between three pairs of annulets conjoined.

700. 1474–75.—Grant by Thomas Chewe, vicar of the cathedral of Wells, to John Lemman, Andrew Grauntham, John Stevens, John Shephurde, William Chewe and Robert Cutklyffe, vicars, of a rent of 13s. 4d. granted by John Masseday, late vicar, to Thomas FitzWillyam, Thomas Chillyngton, Thomas Waynesford, John Pedewell, John Garnesey, vicars, now deceased, and to Thomas Chewe, above mentioned, now surviving, out of lands in Laverlegh and Styklynche in Westepennard. Witnesses: William Powlet, William Sewarde, esquires, [and others]. Dated, Wells, 10 March, 15 Edw. IV.

Round seal; an eagle displayed.