Folios xl - xlix

Calendar of Letter-Books of the City of London: C, 1291-1309. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1901.

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'Folios xl - xlix', in Calendar of Letter-Books of the City of London: C, 1291-1309, (London, 1901) pp. 57-77. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/london-letter-books/volc/pp57-77 [accessed 25 March 2024]

In this section

Folio xl.

Ordinance of the Beadles of the various Wards touching Pollards.

Ordinacio Bedellorum diversarum Wardarum super pollard'.

Be it remembered that on Sunday before the Feast of the Purification B. M. [2 Feb.], 28 Edward I. [A. D. 1299-1300], the serjeants of each Ward were summoned before the Mayor and Aldermen to hear and execute that which should be enjoined by the said Mayor and Aldermen, viz., that each Serjeant in his Ward shall carry his staff, and that any one refusing to accept two "pollards" for the sterling in payment for anything shall be arrested by the said beadles together with the article sold and the suit of the purchaser (una cum secta emptoris), and brought to the house of the Sheriff, all which the said beadles swore to observe, (fn. 1) viz., John, Serjeant of the Ward of Chepe; Richard, Serjeant of the Ward of Walebrock; David, Serjeant of [the Ward of] Nicholas de Farndone, within; (fn. 2) Roger, Serjeant of the same Ward, without; John, Serjeant of "Alcheresgate"; (fn. 3) John, Serjeant of the Ward of Langeborne; Ralph, Serjeant of Bassingeshawe; John, Serjeant of Ferlingwarde; (fn. 4) Geoffrey, Serjeant of Colemannestrate; Roger, Serjeant of Candelwekstrate; Hugh, Serjeant of the Ward of Bradestrate; Richard, Serjeant of Dowegate; John, Serjeant of Crepelgate without; Henry Bode, Serjeant of Bridge; John, Serjeant of Castle Baynard; John, serjeant valet (serviens vallectus), David, Serjeant of Farndone; John, Serjeant of Billingesgate; Thomas, Serjeant of the Ward of John de Canterbury; (fn. 5) Nicholas, Serjeant [of the Ward] of Farndon without the gate of Lodgate; (fn. 6) Henry, Serjeant of Vintry; Walter, Serjeant of Cordewanerestrate; William de Wycombe, valet of the Serjeant of the Ward of Tower; Ralph de Alegate; William, Serjeant of Bredstrate; John, Serjeant of Cornhull; Ralph, Serjeant of Crepelgate within; Luter, Serjeant of the Ward of Bissopesgate.

Eleccio custod' de Blad.

Be it remembered that on Wednesday after the Feast of St. Matthias [24 Feb.], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299-1300], before Elias Russel, the Mayor, Geoffrey de Northone, Alderman, and the reSt. of the Aldermen, Adam Wade, John de Brinkele, Roger Hossebounde, Richard atte Holmes, Roger le Paumer, [and] Roger ate Vine came and were sworn to see that no one sold his corn at an unfair price, nor mixed mouldy corn with good, nor committed any other fraud.

The same day Geoffrey de Gernemuta (Yarmouth) and Richard de Wetherby were sworn at the Pavement. (fn. 7)

The same day Adam Lutekyn, Robert le Lou, [and] Clement le Pestour were similarly sworn at Billingsgate and Graschirg'.

[Di]missio mercat' de forestall.

Monday after the same Feast [Walter atte Belhous, Robert le Barbour,] John de Lewes, Gilbert de Gras, John his son, Peter de Screpestone, the wife of Thomas Pelicar', Stephen de Hadham, [William de Goringes,] Margery de Frydaistrate, Mariota, residing in the house of William de Harwe, and [William de Hendon] came before the Mayor and Aldermen in a court held for pleas of land, and were removed from the franchise of the City for forestalling corn, so that they should be treated as foreigners, unless they found favour with the said Mayor and Aldermen. (fn. 8)

The same day [William ate Bellhous, Roger le Mortemer] and William Ballard ate Hole were forbidden to bring anything into the City except victuals, and the same day John Tilly was disfranchised for forestalling.

Folio xl b.

Carta honoris de Walingeford.

Copy of Inspeximus Charter of Henry III. to the town of Wallingford. Dated Westminster, 12 Jan., 51 Henry III. [A.D. 1266-7]. (fn. 9)

Salamon de Basinge complains of Thomas de Basinge, for whereas the said Thomas had been his guardian for a term of sixteen years from Michaelmas, 7 Edward I. [A.D. 1279], he had always refused to render an account. Pledges for prosecution, William de Frydaystrete and Edmund de Teye.

Folio xli.

Littera directa Maiori per custodes Nundinarum Campanie et Brie.

Letter from Peter de Fremeville, Knt., and Robert de Champagne (Campaniis), (fn. 10) Wardens of the Fair of Champagne and Brie, to the Warden of London, or his deputy, reminding him of a former letter in which they had asked him to seize the goods and, if necessary, the bodies of "burgensis" Fauberti, a citizen of Florence and horsedealer, Gydo Fauberti and "Unicus" (fn. 11) Fauberti, his brothers, Master "Girald de Galaien," (fn. 12) a physician, and James, son of the said "Nutus" [and] partner of the said "burgensis," in order to satisfy a debt of 1,600 small livies tournois (fn. 13) due to "Puchius de Prato," late horsedealer in the said Fair, Martin de Burgo Novo, and John de Burgo Novo, on contracts (fn. 14) made in and upon the body (in corpore et supra corpus) of the Fair of Bar-sur-Aube since the year A.D. 1292. Dated 9 Sept., A.D. 1299. "J. de Sancto Nabore."

Folio xli b.

Eleccio Communit'.

Be it remembered that on Wednesday next after the Feast of the Purification B. M. [2 Feb.], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299-1300], before Elyas Russel, then Mayor, John le Blunt, Geoffrey de Nortone, William de Bettoyne, William de Leyre, Richard de Gloucestre, Walter de "Finchufud," and the reSt. of the Aldermen there present, there were assembled six of the best and more discreet men of each Ward to elect two citizens who should attend the Parliament of the lord the King the second Sunday in Lent, for whom the aforesaid Commonalty would answer; and they elected Geoffrey de Norton, William de Bettoyne, Aldermen, John le Bancker, and William de Red, the same to have full power of the City aforesaid, so that whatever should be done by them the said Commonalty would ratify and confirm.

Breve R'.

Writ for the election of two citizens to attend the above Parliament. Dated Berwyk on Tweed, 29 Dec., 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299].

Commissio.

Letter notifying the election of Geoffrey de Northone and William de Bettoyne. Dated London, 28 Feb., 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299-1300]. (fn. 15)

Litera Tellar' pro solucione xxti marc' sub sigillo communitatis.

Be it remembered that on Saturday after the Feast of St. Faith [6 Oct.], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], before Elyas Russel, the Mayor, William de Leyre, Walter de Finch[ingfeud], John the Coroner, (fn. 16) John de Armenters, Nicholas Picot, Aldermen, a certain letter under the names of Simon de Pourtepol and Vincent le Vinur was sealed with the seal of the Commonalty for 20 marks sterling, which sum was received from the said Simon and Vincent by Nicholas Picot, the Chamberlain, for the Guild of Weavers, (fn. 17) and was paid to Katherine le Fraunceys, as appears by her acquittance.

Folio xlii.

Orainaciones Tellariorum.

Ordinances of the Weavers made on Thursday after the Feast of St. Hillary [13 Jan.], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299-1300]. (fn. 18)

Folio xliii.

Litera Regis pro refutacione monete.

Writ of Privy Seal to the Mayor and Sheriffs for the arrest of persons guilty of enhancing provisions, &c., owing to the recent ordinance touching money. Dated Wyndesore, 10 Feb., 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299-1300]. (fn. 19)

Litera domini Reg' quod de cetera pollard non valeat ultra ob'.

Writ to the Sheriffs of London and Middlesex for enforcing a former writ touching "pollards" and "crocards" passing current for half-pence. Dated "Graham," (fn. 20) 20 Jan., 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1299-1300].

Charter of Queen Eleanor, wife of King Edward I., to the Friars of the Penance of Jesus Christ. (fn. 21)

Folio xliii b.

Alianora, by the grace of God Queen of England, lady of Ireland, Duchess of Aquitaine, and by our lord the King Henry Warden of the Bridge-House, (fn. 22) London, to all who shall see or hear the present writing greeting in the Lord. Know ye that we are bound and held for us and our heirs to defend [and] warrant against all men for ever to the Prior and Friars of the Penance of Jesus ChriSt. residing in London all those tenements with their appurtenances which the same Prior and Friars hold in the street called "Colcherchstrate," in the parish of St. Olave in the Jewry and in the parish of St. Margaret de Lothebury in the City of London, by the grant of confirmation which we have made to the said Prior and Friars by this present writing with the assent and will of the Friar Stephen de Folburn', the sub-warden of the Bridge-House aforesaid, and the reSt. of the Brethren of the said house for 60 marks of silver, which we have received from the aforesaid Prior and Friars of the Penance of Jesus Christ towards the fabric of the said bridge, and for the providing of a chaplain which the said Prior and Friars shall at their own expense for ever provide to celebrate divine service for the soul of Richard le Keu, who devised and assigned all the tenements aforesaid with all their appurtenances to the Brethren of the aforesaid Bridge-House for the maintenance of a chaplain at their expense to celebrate divine service for his soul for ever. In [testimony] whereof, &c. (fn. 23)

Charter granted to the Dean and Church of St. Martin le Grand. Dated 4 Feb., 15 Hen. III. [A.D. 1230-1]. (fn. 24)

Carta Reg' H. facta decano Sancti Martini Magni London.

[cedula.]

Writ to the Mayor and Sheriffs enjoining them, for the second time, to levy a sum of £29 on the property of Robert de Rokesle, who had served as fellow-sheriff with Martin de Ambresbury, if it should be proved that that sum was due to the said Martin from the said Robert on their jointsheriffs' accounts. Dated York, 20 July, 31 Edward I. [A.D. 1303].

[cedula.] (dors.)

Monday after the Feast of Assumption B. M. [15 August], 31 Edward I. [A.D. 1303]. Whereas it had been testified by Thomas Romeyn, the auditor of the account between Robert de Rokesle and Martin de Ambresbury, late Sheriffs of London, touching arrears of the ferm of the City, that the said Robert remained indebted to the said Martin in the sum of £29 2s. 11½d., as appears in the account aforesaid; and whereas several days had been given the said Robert for producing his disbursements made for their joint advantage, which the said Robert desired to be taken into account, and he had failed to produce them; it was adjudged by John le Blund, the Mayor, William de Betoyne, John de Wengrave, William le Mazerer, Walter de Finchingfeld, Thomas Romeyn (Hugh Pourte and Simon de Paris, Sheriffs), John de Canterbury, Richer de Refham, Henry de Gloucestre, and Nicholas Pycot, Aldermen, that the aforesaid Sheriffs should levy the said money on the property of the said Robert de Rokesle to the King's use, in exoneration of the City and of the aforesaid Martin, who found sureties for his reimbursing the said Robert of all money reasonably spent for their common benefit, &c.

Folio xliv.

View of Account between Robert de Rokesle and Martin de Ambresbury, late Sheriffs of London, taken before Thomas Romayn, Thursday before the Nativity B. M. [8 Sept.], 26 Edward I. [A.D. 1298].

Of Robert de Rokesle and Martin de Ambresbury, for arrears of the ferm of the City of London, £213 3s. 1d.; out of which there is allowed to the said Martin 100 marks which he paid to William de Bettoyne, then Chamberlain, and £25 7s. 9d. which he paid for casks purchased pursuant to the King's writ, and £6 5s. 9d. paid for alms, and £8 6s. 8d. which the Sheriffs of Essex and Surrey levied by writ of the King out of the Exchequer. The sum total allowed the said Martin by the items aforesaid being £106 13s. 6½d. So there remains upon the same £106 9s. 6½d., whereof Robert answers for £13 3s. 1d., and the said Martin answers for £93 6s. 5½d., and so the sum will be complete. Item, the said Robert and Martin owe for divers extracts and sums £231 15s. 4½d., viz., for the Iter of John de Berewik £181 17s. 6½d., and for small purprestures £7 10s. 4d., and for the rent of the late Adam de Strattone £33 12s. 2d., and for divers debts £8 0s. 10d., and for two debts 34s. as appears supra; of which the said Martin will himself be responsible for the rent of the late Adam de Strattone £33 12s. 2d., and for amercements of Berkingecherche £13 6s. 8d. under divers heads; and the said Robert will himself be responsible for £67 6s. 2½d., which he levied by divers sums as for the Iter, issues and other extracts And so they owe in common £117 10s. 5½d., still to be levied in London and the county of Middlesex. Sum total of the burden demanded of them £444 18s. 5½d., of which Martin is himself responsible as of the ferm of the rents of Adam de Strattone and the amercements of Berking' for £246 18s. 10d., whereof allowances are made to them as appears supra £106 13s. 6½d. And so they owe clear £140 5s. 3½d. The sum for which Robert himself answers, as appears supra, of the ferm, the Iter, and other extracts, £80 9s. 3½d., whereon there is allowed him by a tally of the Exchequer £19 7s. 5d.; and so he owes clear £69 15s. 9d. The sum which they answer for in common for debts still to be levied £117 10s. 4d. Moreover the said Robert is bound to the said Martin on a certain account of the laSt. term of the year they were Sheriffs in £29 2s. 11½d. Whereof the said Robert demands allowance of certain costs and expenses by him incurred for their advantage, as he reasonably can show, &c., and the said Martin likewise demands allowance of his expenses as justice shall dictate, &c.

Carta burgens' de Porthemue.

Charter of liberties to the burgesses of Portsmouth. Dated "Portesmue," 2 May, 5 Richard I. [A.D. 1194]. (fn. 25)

Folio. xliv b.

Litera missa custodibus Nundinarum Campanie et Brie.

Letter from Elyas Russel, Mayor, and the citizens of London, to Sir Peter de Fremeville, Knt., and Robert de Champagne (Campania), Wardens of the Fair of Champagne and Brie, in reply to their requeSt. that he should compel "burgensis" Fauberti, Guydo Fauberti, and "Nutus" Fauberti, brothers of the said "burgensis," Master "Gylard" de "Galaron," physician, and James, [son] of the said "Nutus" and partner of "burgensis," to satisfy "Pucheus" de Prato and Martin de Novo Burgo and other creditors of a debt of 1,600 small livres tournois due on contracts (contractuum) made since A.D. 1292 at the Fair of Bar-sur-Aube. He informs them that he had made inquiries and had found that the debtors had compounded with the said Pucheus at the Fair of Bar-sur-Aube in 1293, as evidenced by a document under the seal of the Wardens of the Fair of Champagne and Brie, and the debtors were quit. Dated Saturday before mid-Lent, A.D. 1299.

Carta civium Exon'.

Inspeximus Charter of liberties granted to the citizens of Exeter. Dated Westminster, 24 March, 21 Henry III. [A.D. 1236-7]. (fn. 26)

Folio xlv.

Admissio Camerar'.

Be it remembered that on Saturday the eve of St. Mark [25 April], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], Nicholas Pycot was made Chamberlain of the Guildhall of London by Elyas Russel, the Mayor, Geoffrey de Nortone, William de Betoyne, William de Leyre, Salomon le Cotyler, Thomas Sely, John de Donestaple, Richer de Reffam, Richard de Gloucestre, Walter de Finchingfeld, Nicholas de Farndon, William le Mazyner, John le Blount, [and] Simon de Parys, Aldermen; and there were delivered unto him all those things appertaining to the said Chamber by John de Donestaple and Simon de Parys, the Chamberlains of the Guildhall, (fn. 27) who were that day removed from the said office by the Mayor and Aldermen aforesaid, as appears by indentures between them made.

Inhibicio Portegul'.

The same day and year precept was given by the above Mayor and Aldermen to William Trente, Gerard Dorgoyl, Bartholomew de Riparus, Peter de Muncuk, Bernard Johan, Geoffrey Sygin, Remund de Margeys, [and] Arnald Barage, that they for the future keep no hostels themselves for eating and sleeping, but [they shall lodge] only in the hostels of free men, on pain of forfeiture of all their movables; and for keeping and doing the premises a day was given to William Trente and Gerard Dorgoyl until the Feast of St. John the BaptiSt. next, and to Bartholomew de Ripariis and the reSt. until the Feast of Ascension next, after which the penalty runs. (fn. 28)

Inhibicio Teutonicorum.

The same day and year a similar precept was given to "Thetardo" (fn. 29) le Estreys, Bartram Brakele, "Arnado" Wassemod, Godescalcus de Hudendal', Hanekyn de London, Tydiman de Hane, Hildebrand de Nova Curia, Tydiman de Rone, John called "le Swarte," Tydiman le Swarte, and they have a day until......

Charter of Sir Peter de Gavestone, Earl of Cornwall.

Carta dn'i Petri de Gavaston' Conutis Cornubie.

Edward [II.], by the grace of God, &c., to the Mayor and Commonalty of his City of London greeting. Whereas, among other lands and tenements which we by our charter lately gave and granted to our beloved and trusty Peter de Gavastone, Earl of Cornwall, (fn. 30) and to Margaret his wife, to hold to them and the heirs of their bodies, we granted that 100s. of rent which Philip de Kent, now deceased, enjoyed at your hands for life by gift and grant of Edmund, late Earl of Cornwall, out of a certain rent of £50 due for the Queenhithe (fn. 31) of London, and which, after the death of the said Philip, ought to revert to us and our heirs, should, after the decease of the said Philip, remain to the said Peter and Margaret and the heirs of their bodies, as in our aforesaid charter more fully i s contained: we command you that ye take heed and answer for the said 100s. out of the aforesaid ferm of £50 to the said Peter and Margaret in form aforesaid, for we wish you to be quit thereof towards us according to right. In witness whereof we have caused these our letters patent to be made. Witness ourself at Westminster, the 28th day of August, the third year of our reign [A.D. 1309].

Folio xlv b.

Convencio inter cives London' et mercatores de Amyas, Corbye et de Nele.

Agreement made between the City of London and the merchants of Amiens, Corby, and Nesle, whereby the latter covenant to pay yearly to the Sheriffs of London the sum of 50 marks sterling in return for certain trading privileges. Dated Monday before the Feast of St. "Lucye," (fn. 32) iv Ides of October [12 Oct.], A.D. 1237. (fn. 33)

Folio xlvi.

Be it remembered that Henry the Chaplain, called "de Malmesbyri," came before Elyas Russel, the Mayor, on Thursday after the Feast of the Invention of H. Cross [3 May], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], and renounced all action and demand against Henry Pudding, Floria his wife, and Philip, called "the Tailor," on account of any debt or injury as contained in two Bulls which the said Henry the Chaplain had obtained from the Court of Rome the previous year; and the said Philip was ordered to satisfy the said Henry of his demand within eight days, inasmuch as the franchise of the City does not permit any one of the City to be impleaded without the walls. (fn. 34)

Abiur' ae officio brocar' cai rectarum.

Be it remembered that on the following Friday, before Elyas Russel, the Mayor, Geoffrey de Nortone, William 'de Leyre, Richard de Gloucestre, Walter de Finchinnfeud, Nicholas de Farindone, Salamon le Cuteler, John de Donestaple, John le Blunt, William de Bettoyne, Symon de Parys, and Nicholas Pykot, Aldermen-John de Kirketone, John Bulichromp called "le Bindere," Richard de Kirketone, and Robert de Stanforde were convicted by inquest, to which they had appealed, of forestalling and of brokerage of carts (abrocacione car ectarum). Accordingly they were committed for contempt against the lord the King. Nevertheless they abjured the business of brokerage of carts (brocarie carectarum) for ever, and would no more meddle in anything.

Be it remembered that on Friday after the Feast of St. John ante Portam Latinam [6 May], the year aforesaid, before William de Leyre, the locum tenens of Elyas Russel, the Mayor, William de Bettoyne, John de Kanterbury, Adam de Rockesle, John de Donestapil, Symon de Parys, Nicholas Pyckoc, Nicholas de Farindone, [and] Walter de "Fingfeud," Aldermen, it was agreed by Roger de Lintone, Robert le Convers, Robert Pipeherst, Andrew Mel, Symon Godard, William de Gartone, William de Helwetone, John Heysone, Richard Jordon, John de Parys, Nicholas de Neueport, Henry de Farinham, Geoffrey "Sckot," John Fayrhod, Richard de Bolintone, Henry de Kele, Robert Gangy, Peter de Hungrie, Geoffrey de Bocham, Elyas de Brestolle, Peter de Blakeneye, William de Gylingham, John de Dorkingge, Nicholas le Convers, Robert de Gloucestre, Ralph le Massoun, William de la Marche, Adam Mulgar, Alan de Suff[olk], Richard de Horham, Henry the Tailor of la Ryole, Elyas de Suffolk, Robert de Worestede, Adam Trug, Walter de Bredstrate, William Greylond, William de Bradewelle, John May, William de Creshantone, Peter Berneval, Edmund Trentemars, Richard de Alegate, John le Poter, Hugh Purthe, William Lambyn, Richard Horin, "ferour," Richard Horin, fishmonger, John de Hestone, John le Mazerer, Edmund the Tailor, Robert de Campedene, Walter le Marberer, Robert Pyckeman, Richard Swothe, Ralph de St. Edmund, John le Coffer, William Delisle (de Insula), Richer de Refham, taverner, John le Plater. Henry le Jonne, Matthew le Caundeler, Yvo de Wetle, Richard le Sawyer, John Bonquer, Paul le Bocceler, William Cosyn, John de Halinburne, Adam de Horsham, Stephen le Chauser, Walter de Wanloc, Henry de Merlawe, William de Hamme, William Morys, [and] John de Hatfeud - that William de Bettoyne, Geoffrey de Nortone, William de Leyre, Ralph de Alegate, Geoffrey Hurel, [and] Hugh Purthe, should prepare an account of 20,000 marks, expenses of the Commonalty, and present it to the Treasury and Barons of the Exchequer at York on Monday after Trinity Sunday.

Folio xlvi b.

Breve dn'i R' ad inquirend' pro transgr inonete.

The King's writ notifying the appointment of John Butteturte, John Delisle, and Roger de Hegham as Commissioners to inquire into cases of exportation of sterling money, gold and silver, plate, wool, &c., and the exchange of the same for base coin which was imported into England and unlawfully changed, with power to punish offenders, summon witnesses, &c. Dated Westminster, 1 April, 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300].

Breve Just' pro eodem.

Writ issued by the above John de Butteturte, John Delisle, and Roger de Hegham to the Sheriffs of London, bidding them bring up before them at the Guildhall, on the day after the Feast of Ascension [19 May], those who had been sworn before J[ohn] de Cobham (fn. 35) and his fellow Justices in their several Wards to inquire after those guilty of circulating base coin, together with those who had been indicted for that offence and their mainpernors. Dated Ipswich, 10 May, 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300].

Abbrocar' tur' de officio Peletrie.

Thursday after the Feast of St. John Bapt. [24 June], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], Nicholas de York and Robert Blaket elected and sworn brokers of Peltry before the Mayor and Aldermen.

Folio xlvii.

Breve Willelmi Inge pro appello probator' Glouc'.

Writ to the Mayor and Sheriffs to bring up Hugh the Parson of "Qwat" (fn. 36) and Thomas de Chalkeleye before William Inge (fn. 37) and his fellow Justices appointed for the gaol delivery at Gloucester to answer charges of divers robberies, &c., brought by Thomas Maloysel. Witness, W[illiam] Inge, at Gloucester, 28 April, 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300].

Breve pro eodem.

A similar writ of the same date for bringing up Manckin (or Mannekin) le Hewmer, Laurence le Polleter, Robert Clarel, William "de la chundelrye," Geoffrey le Uscher, William de Chalfhunte, Edmund le Criour, Elyas de la Wardrobe, servant of John de Benstede, and Thomas "Quatrosoz," in the King's gaol at Gloucester, before the Justices at Gloucester to answer like charges brought against them by Robert Nurry, approver (probator).

Breve pro eodem.

A similar writ of the same date for bringing up Walter Scot, of Wodestret, and John Russel to answer like charges brought by the above Robert Nurry.

Compot' Joh' de Donestapil et Symonis de Parys.

Be it remembered that on Monday before the Feast of Ascension [19 May], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], in the presence of Elias Russel, the Mayor, William de Leyre, Richard de Gloucestre, Salomon le Cutteler, John de Kent, Nicholas de Farndone, [and] Walter de Fingfeud, Aldermen, there were elected auditors of the account of John de Donestapil and Symon de Parys, the Chamberlains of the Guildhall, by the common consent of the whole Commonalty of the several Wards, viz., John Baunquer (?), Andrew de Staunford, Roger le Palmere, and Geoffrey le Hurel.

Littera Abbat' de Wautham pro soonereve.

Letter from Robert [de Elintone], Abbot of the Holy Cross of Waltham, to the Mayor, Sheriffs, and Aldermen of the City of London, notifying the appointment of Geoffrey de Nortone, citizen of London, to act as his soke-reve and claim the rights of his court from the Abbey's tenants in London, according to the laws and customs of the City, and asking the said Mayor, &c., to receive the said Geoffrey in that capacity. Dated Waltham, the Feast of St. Barnabas [11 June], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300].

Folio xlvii b.

Compot' pont' Lond', viz., Joh'le Benereet Will'i Jordan.

Be it remembered that Walter de Finchingfeud and William de Leyre, Aldermen and auditors of the account of John le Benere and William Jordan, Wardens of London Bridge, came before the Mayor and Aldermen on Saturday after the Feast of SS. Peter and Paul [29 June], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], and produced a certain schedule, wherein it appeared that the said Wardens had rendered their account touching the bridge from the Feast of Pentecost, 26 Edward I., until Midsummer, 28 Edward I., as set out in the rolls delivered to Nicholas Picot, the Chamberlain, and that at Easter term, anno 28, they were indebted to the extent of 19s. 2d., and at St. John's term, the same year, to the extent of £12 11s. 11¾d.; and the said Wardens remain in office, &c.

Returnum brevis pro appello probatoris Glouc'.

Return made to writs of William Inge, Justice for gaol delivery at Gloucester, addressed to John de Armenters and Henry de Fingrie, Sheriffs of London, anno 28 Edward I. (fn. 38) The Mayor answers for himself that he has not the custody of any prison in London nor ought to answer for prisoners. The Sheriffs answer that Mannekyn le Haumer and Laurence le Poleter are freemen of the City, and by reason thereof they (the Sheriffs) had released them on mainprise for their appearance at the first assize at the Tower, or before the Justices for gaol delivery of Newgate, to answer the charges brought against them, and therefore they (the Sheriffs) could not act as requested without an offence against the franchise of the City. [The Sheriffs further answer that] Robert Clarel, William de la Chandelerie, Geoffrey le Ussher, William de Chalfhunte, Edmund le Creyour, Elias de la Garderobe, and Hugh the Parson of "Quat" were delivered to them by the King's Marshal, and they could not send them out of the City without the King's writ for costs and charges arising from such an act. [The Sheriffs further answer that] Thomas de Chalkele had been arrested in the City, and being appealed by divers approvers before the King's Justices at Newgate had put himself on the country.

And because Elias Russel, the Mayor, and the Aldermen were unwilling that the said John and Henry should suffer loss for making a return in support of the City's franchise they promised the said John and Henry an indemnity.

Inquisicio capta pro ponte juxta inurum in Warda de Bradestrate pro Mora.

Inquisition taken by the Mayor and Aldermen on Friday the morrow of the Translation of St. Thomas [7 July], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], as to the liability to maintain two bridges in the Ward of Broad Street and to find hinges for Bishopsgate (fn. 39).

Folio xlviii.

Inquisicio capta pro factura cursus de Walebroc contra cancelar' Sc'i Steph'i de Walebroc.

Inquisition taken before the Mayor on Wednesday the morrow of the Translation of St. Benedict [11 July], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], as to who are bound to repair the covering over the water-course of Walebroc, over against the chancelwall of the church of St. Stephen de Walebroc The jurors- Robert de Parys, William Prior, John de Plumstede, John Paie, William de Netlestede, William Reyner, Thomas Peccok, William de Camerwelle, Symon de Brouctone, John de Hackene, Roger de Coumbe, [and] William de Raningtone- say that the parishioners of the said church of St. Stephen are bound of right to repair the said covering. The Sheriffs, therefore, are told to distrain the said parishioners to do the building aforesaid. (fn. 40)

Carta fratrum predicatorum.

Confirmation by King Edward I. of grant formerly made, at his request, by the Mayor and the reSt. of the Barons of the City to Robert [Kilwardby], Archbishop of Canterbury, of two lanes adjacent to his place of Castle Baynard and the Tower of Montfychet, (fn. 41) for the purpose of enlarging the aforesaid place, on condition that the said Archbishop should provide the citizens with a more convenient way, as he had now done. This charter of confirmation is expressed to have been granted in order to prevent action being taken either against the Archbishop or the Barons aforesaid by the Justices Itinerant at the Tower, on the ground of purpresture Dated Westminster, 10 June, 4 Edward I. [A.D. 1276]. (fn. 42)

Districcio facta super mercatores de Brabancia.

Be it remembered that Peter de Blackeneye, John Beufleur, John de Dorkyng, and William de Hackeneye came on Friday the Feast of the Translation of St. Swithin [15 July], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], before Elias Russel, the Mayor, Geoffrey de Nortone, and other Aldermen [not named], and complained that the Duke of Brabant had seized and kept their wool of the value of £177 6s. 3d. Precept was accordingly made to John de Armenters, one of the Sheriffs. to arreSt. the goods and chattels of the Duke's subjects, and to deliver no cocket (fn. 43) to them until he had seized goods to the amount aforesaid.-Also on Sunday the eve of St. Peter in Cathedra [22 Feb.] came John Gumbard before William de Leyre, the Mayor's locum tenens, and complained that the Duke of Brabant had taken 7½ pieces of cloth from him, each cloth worth 6½ marks. Precept accordingly to the Sheriff as above.

Concessio facta Johanni le Bener' et Willelmo Jordan custodibus pontis London'.

Be it remembered that on Wednesday the Feast of St. Margaret [20 July], the year aforesaid, it was agreed by Elias Russel, the Mayor, William de Leyre, John le Blunt, William de Bettoyne, Thomas Romeyn, Salomon le Cutteler, Symon de Parys, John de Donestapil, Nicholas Pyckoc, and Henry de Gloucestre, Aldermen, that John le Benere and William Jordan, the Wardens of London Bridge, should be quit of all tallages and all offices of the City so long as they remained Wardens of the bridge.

Be it remembered that on Monday the Feast of St. James [25 July], the year aforesaid, came Henry le Waleys and Philip de Norhamtone, fripperer (pheliparius), before the Mayor and Aldermen, and undertook, on behalf of Alice de Stistede, late wife of Hugh Mulgas, to pay the sum of 10 marks to London Bridge in the event of her failing to pay a similar sum to Master Peter de Dene, she having formerly given pledges to the Preaching Friars for such payment, as appears by an indenture in the custody of the Chamberlain.

Folio xlviii b.

Charter of Henry I. to the Priory of Holy Trinity, London. (fn. 44)

Carta Priorat' Sancte Trinitat' London.

Henricus dei gracia Rex Angl' Archiepiscopis, Episcopis, Abbatibus, Comitibus, Baronibus, Vicecomitibus et omnibus ministris et fidelibus suis salutem Sciatis me concessisse et presenti carta confirmasse canicatu' [sic] regularium canonicorum Sancte Trinitatis Lond' quem uxor mea M[atildis] Regina sibi (fn. 45) instituit esse stabilem inperpetuum et liberum a subjeccione omnium ecclesiarum. (fn. 46) Et ut ipsi canonici claudant viam que est inter ecclesiam suam et murum civitatis concessi eciam eisdem canonicis pro anima mea et anima M[atildis] regine coniugis mee viginti quinque libras blanch' annuatim in puram perpetuam elemosinam de redditu ipsius M[atildis] Regine in Exon' (fn. 47) quas ipsa M[atildis] Regina assensu meo illis dedit in vita sua. Et ita ut quicunque Vicecomes fuerit in Exon' (fn. 48) eas reddat predictis canonicis ad Pach' et ad festum Sancti Michaelis Lond' sicut unquam melius reddite fuerunt. Preterea dedi eisdem canonicis portam de Alegate cum socca ad eam pertinente Et concessi eisdem canonicis quod habeant soccam de Anglica cnictenegild cum terris et omnibus libertatibus suis ad eandem soccam infra civitatem Lond' et extra pertinentibus. Volo et firmiter precipeo [sic] quod predicti canonici et eorum homines omnes terras et possessiones et feoda sua et elemosinas suas tam in ecclesiis quam in rebus et possessionibus mundanis habeant et teneant cum omnibus libertatibus et liberis consuetudinibus et quietanciis suis in bosco et plano in pratis et pasturis in aquis et molendinis in viis et semitis in stagnis et vivariis in mariscis et piscariis in grangiis et virgultis infra civitatem et extra infra burgum et extra cum soca et saca et tol et tem et infangenethyef. Et quod ipsi canonici et omnes sui liberi sint et quieti inperpetuum de omnibus gildis et scotis et wytis et assisis et de omnibus auxiliis vic[ecomitum] (fn. 49) et minister'lium [sic] eorum et de omnibus sectis de Syris et hundredis et leth[is] et hustingis de placibis et querelis et quieti sint et liberi de ydagiis et taylagiis de excercitibus et equitacionibus de oneribus expedicionum et vigiliis faciendis de operacionibus castellorum parcorum poncium vivariorum murorum et omnibus clausuris et de omni careto (fn. 50) et sumagio et navigio et domuum regalium edificacione et omnimodo operacione et omni seculari servicio et exaccione et de omnibus occasionibus: concessi eciam quod prefati canonici et omnes sui sint quieti ab omni Thelonio in omni foro et in omnibus nundinis et in omni transitu viarum ponsium [sic] et maris per totum r[egnum] meum: et homines qui tenent de predictis Canonicis tam in civitate Lond' quam extra non placitent nisi in curia ipsorum Canonicorum ubi placitare debent et proibeo super forisfacturam meam quod non ponatur (fn. 51) in placitum de aliquo suo tenemento nisi coram me vel capitali Justic[iario] meo et quod nullus eis vel hominibus suis contra hac [sic] cartam meam in aliquo forisfaciat quin ipsi et omnes terre et possessiones sue et hominum suorum sint in custodia et speciali proteccione mea. T[estibus] Rann[ulpho] Canc[ellario] G. de Clinton' Radulpho Basset apud Northampto.

Writ of Edward I. to the Mayor and Aldermen of the City forbidding them to exact tallage from the Prior of Holy Trinity, London.

[cedula.]

Edwardus dei gracia Rex Angl' etc. Maiori et Aldermannis de civitate London' salutem. Quia dilectus nobis in Christo Prior Sancte Trinitatis London' per cartas progenitorum nostrorum quondam Regum Anglie quas inspeximus tenet terras et tenementa sua in civitate nostra London' et in suburbio eiusdem libera et quieta de tallagio per quod ad tallagium nobis inde prestandum non tenetur, vobis mandamus quod demandam quam facitis prefato Priori de tallagio in civitate predicta nuper assesso pro terris et tenementis que ipse tenet in eadem civitate et suburbio eiusdem in pace permittatis. Et districcionem si quam in ea occasione feceritis indilate relaxetis eidem. T[este] W. de Carleton' apud Ebor' xxviij die Maii anno regni nostri tricesimo secundo [A.D. 1304].

Charter of Henry I. to the Prior and Canons of Holy Trinity, London, granting them a right to close a highway. (fn. 52)

[cedula] (dors.)

H[enricus] rex Anglie Ricardo Episcopo Lund' et Alberico de Ver' vicecomiti et omnibus Baronibus et fidelibus suis Lundon' salutem. Sciatis me concessisse Sancte Trinitati et Normanno Priori et Canonicis Sancte Trinitatis Lund' ut claudant muro viam que erat inter ecclesiam et officinas eorum et murum Civitatis Lund' ex utraque parte usque ad murum predictum civitatis. Et in pace teneant. Et via que solebat ibi esse sit amodo ante ecclesiam suam ex alia parte. Et hoc concedo eis pro animabus patris mei et matris et predecessorum et successorum meorum et pro salute mea et statu regni mei. T[estibus] Ranulpho Cancellario et Gaufrido de Clintona et Radulpho Basset apud Norhamtonam.

Folio xlviii b.

Breve domini R' pro Vasconibus.

Writ of certiorari to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London touching alleged restriction placed upon merchants of Bordeaux as to their residence in the City, (fn. 53) and illegal exaction of twopence for every cask of wine by way of pontage. Dated Carlisle, 30 June, 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300].

Returnum istius Brevis.

Return to the above writ, viz.: Neither the merchants of Bordeaux nor any other foreign merchants were wont to hire and hold hostels in London at a time when the citizens enjoyed their full franchise as they now do by confirmation of the lord the King, nor to have other foreigners living in their house or entertained at their table. Nevertheless they are able to hold cellars and other houses for storing their wines and other merchandise, and this for a fixed time according to the liberty and custom of the City.

As regards the pontage demanded of them for their wines, the lord the King granted to the aforesaid citizens that for the repair and maintenance of London Bridge they should have and take of every cask of wine passing under the bridge and beyond, twopence, and this by charter of the King himself, which he made to them for a certain time still running, &c.

Folio xlix.

Secunda litera Nundinarum Campanie et Brie pro Burgens' Fuberti.

Another letter from Peter de "Fremiville," Knt., and Robert de Champagne, Wardens of the Fair of Champagne and Brie, to the Mayor and citizens of London, denying that the debt due to Pucheus de Prato had been satisfied as stated in the Mayor's letter, and again requesting him to cause the goods and persons of the creditors named in their former letter to be seized to satisfy the debt and costs, lest. they should be compelled to prohibit the Mayor and citizens from bringing their goods to the aforesaid Fair. Dated May, A.D. 1300.

Concessio Simon' le Coteler.

Be it remembered that on Friday next after the Feast of St. Peter ad Vincula [1 Aug.], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], before William de Leyre [and] Walter de Finchingf[eud], the Mayor's deputies, Henry le Galeys, Adam de Fulham, Salomon le Coteler, John de Donestaple, Martin Box, [and] Nicholas Picot, Aldermen, came Simon le Coteler, of London Bridge, and agreed on behalf of himself, his wife, and John and William his sons, that if he should receive the said John and William into his house or, in future, maintain them in any way he would surrender all right and claim to the house he held on London Bridge to the said bridge.

Folio xlix b.

Breve dn't R' pro arestac' Will'mi de Sant.

Writ to the Mayor and Sheriffs to seize the merchandise of William de Sant, merchant of Bayonne, found in the City, and to keep it until further orders. Dated York, 13 June, 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300].

Amissio libertatis.

Tuesday the morrow of the Assumption B. M. [15 Aug.], 28 Edward I. [A.D. 1300], before William de Leyre [and] Walter de Finch[ingfeud], deputies of Elias Russel, the Mayor, Richard de Gloucestre, Salamon le Coteler, John le Blund, William de Betoyne, [and] Nicholas Picot, Aldermen-Geoffrey de Hallingbire, Richard Baudechun, (fn. 54) William Baudechun, William de Chalfhunt, Robert Orpedeman, "James" le Swayn, Robert le Clovier, and Thomas le "Norreys" (fn. 55) came and put themselves to an inquisition that they were not accustomed to forestall. The inquisitors, viz., Alan de Suffolk, Adam Wade, John Fairhod, Thomas le Blund, and others in the panel, say on oath that the said Geoffrey and others are forestallers of wood and coal, and have been accustomed so to be. Therefore let the said Geoffrey and others lose the freedom of the City, and be treated as foreigners until, &c.

(Afterwards, viz., on Friday before the Feast of St. George [23 April], anno 29 Edward I. [A.D. 1301], came Richard Baudechon and Thomas le "Northreve" and satisfied the Commonalty of their trespass, and were admitted to the freedom of the City and sworn, &c., as appears in the paper of redemption of freedom.)

Litera respons' directa custod' Nundin' Campan'.

Reply made by Elias Russel, the Mayor, and citizens of London to the letter of Peter de "Fremville," Knt., and Robert de Champagne, Wardens of the Fair of Champagne and Brie, declining to arrest the goods and bodies of the debtors mentioned therein, inasmuch as they were not freemen of the City, except by special order of the King, who was then engaged in war with Scotland Dated Saturday after the Feast of Assumption B. M. [15 Aug.], A.D. 1300.

Footnotes

  • 1. A translation of the orders up to this point is printed in Riley's 'Memorials,' p. 42.
  • 2. Within Ludgate. Nicholas de Farndone appears to have been son-in-law of William de Farndone, to whom the Ward of Ludgate and Newgate within and without was conveyed by John, son of Ralph le Fevre, by deed enrolled in 1282. See 'Cal. of Wills, Court of Husting, London,' vol. i. p. 112, notes 2 and 3; 'Cal. Letter-Book A,' p. 11n.
  • 3. Aldersgate.
  • 4. Cf. "Ferthingward," Letter-Book B, folio 77. Identical with Lime Street Ward, not with Cornhill Ward, as conjectured by Riley ('Memorials,' Introd., p. xi n.).
  • 5. Tower Ward.
  • 6. Vide supra, p. 57, note 3.
  • 7. "The Pavement in Chepe," a recognized market place for corn, situate, probably, near the church of St. Michael le Quern at the weSt. end. Cf. 'Liber Albus,' i. 349.
  • 8. Those whose names are placed in brackets recovered the favour of the City.
  • 9. Printed in Rymer's 'Fœdera,' i. 471; Gross, 'The Gild Merchant,' ii. 244.
  • 10. Appears as "Campania" in the Mayor's reply, infra, p. 64.
  • 11. Or "Nutus."
  • 12. Variously recorded as "Gylard de Galaron," "Gerard de Gayleyan'," and "Galyan."
  • 13. A livre tournois was one-fourth of a pound sterling.
  • 14. "Creantorum" (?) : in the Mayor's reply contractuum.
  • 15. The writ, election, and return are printed in Palgrave, 'Parl. Writs,' i. 85. Cf. 'Liber Cust.,' i. 136.
  • 16. Otherwise known as John of the Vintry, or John Clerk of the Vintry. 'Liber Cust.,' i. 241 et seq.
  • 17. The City had agreed to pay the King this sum in return for his putting down the Weavers' Guild in London. See Charter of King John, supra, p. 55.
  • 18. Printed, with slight variations, in 'Liber Cust,' i. 121-6.
  • 19. Printed in 'Liber Cust.,' i. 191.
  • 20. Grantham, co. Linc.
  • 21. Otherwise known as Fratres de Sacca, from their being apparelled in sackcloth. They originally settled outside Aldersgate about the year 1257, but afterwards removed to the Synagogue in Lothbury, at the north corner of the Old Jewry.
  • 22. After the battle of Evesham (1265), when the City lay at the King's mercy, Henry granted the Queen the custody of London Bridge, and she continued to enjoy the rents and lands belonging to the bridge for nearly six years, during which time the bridge was allowed to go to the bad. Realizing at length how matters stood, she restored it to the citizens, who on 1 Sept., 1271, elected again their own Wardens. 'Chron. Mayors and Sheriffs,' pp. 146-7.
  • 23. A translation of this charter is given by Strype (Stow's 'Survey,' book iii. cap. iv.) from a copy preserved in the City's 'Liber Horn,' folio 285.
  • 24. Printed in 'Liber Cust.,' ii. 669.
  • 25. Printed in 'Liber Cust.' (from Cotton MS. Claudius D II.), ii. 655. Another copy will be found in 'Liber Horn,' folio 286.
  • 26. Printed in 'Liber Cust.' (from Cotton MS. Claudius D II.), ii 667. Cf. 'Liber Horn,' folio 287 b.
  • 27. Donestaple and Paris appear to be the only instance recorded (so far as I have yet discovered) of two City Chamberlains being in office at the same time. See 'Cal. Letter-Book B,' Introd., p. iv.
  • 28. Printed in 'Liber Cust.,' i. 69.
  • 29. "Thodardo," 'Liber Cust.,' i. 69.
  • 30. Gavestone had recently returned from exile and been created Earl of Cornwall.
  • 31. Richard, Earl of Cornwall, father of Edmund, had granted Queenhithe to the citizens in 1246 at a fee ferm rent of £50. Vide supra, p. 15.
  • 32. Mistake for "Luce."
  • 33. Printed in 'Liber Cust.,' i. 64. Cf. 'Liber Horn,' folio 292.
  • 34. See charter dated 26 March, 52 Henry III.
  • 35. Became a Baron of the Exchequer in 1276.
  • 36. There are two parishes of this name in Shropshire, viz., Quatt Jarvis and Quatt Malvern.
  • 37. A Justice of Assize; appointed a Justice of Common Pleas in 1314, and Chief Justice of the King's Bench in 1316 He sat as one of the judges in the trial of Gaveston in 1312, having previously fallen out of favour with Edward II. in 1308. 'Chron. Edward I. and II.' (Rolls Series), vol. i. pp. 136 n., 264; ii. 43.
  • 38. Vide supra, pp. 68, 69.
  • 39. Translation printed in Riley's 'Memorials,' p. 43.
  • 40. A translation is printed in the 'Memorials' (p. 43) omitting the names of the jury.
  • 41. In 1275, anno 3 Edward I., Robert Fitz-Walter obtained licence from the Crown to convey Baynard Castle and the Tower of Montfichet to the Archbishop for the purpose of the foundation of the House and Church of the Friars Preachers or Black Friars See 'Liber Cust.' (Rolls Series), Introduction, p. lxxvi.
  • 42. Cf. 'Liber Horn,' folio 294. Printed in 'Liber Albus' (Rolls Series), i. 127. In the original MS.of the 'Liber Albus' the charter is wrongly ascribed to Edward II. Stow ('Survey,' Thoms's ed., p. 127) remarks that in place of the lanes destroyed by the Archbishop he "built the late new church of the Black Friers and placed them therein."
  • 43. The name applied to a seal used by officers of the Customs.
  • 44. A translation of this charter made from the cartulary of the Priory compiled in 1425 by Thomas de Axebrigge, and now in the Hunterian Museum, Glasgow (a modern transcript of the cartulary with a translation being preserved in the Guildhall Library, London), is printed by Dugdale ('Monast,' vol. vi. part i. p. 157), who makes reference to this copy in Letter-Book C, although he gives the folio as 68 instead of 48 b. Cf. Guildhall MS. No. 122, vol. iv. pp. 771-4.
  • 45. "Ibi," Guildhall transcript.
  • 46. The word secularium has been struck through and ecclesiarum written above it. The copies of the charter in 'Liber Horn' and 'Liber Memorandorum' have secularium, whilst that in 'Liber Dunthorn' has ecclesiarum.
  • 47. "Oxon'" in 'Liber Horn' and 'Liber Memorandorum.'
  • 48. In Dugdale's translation it is "Devonshire."
  • 49. "Vir'," Guildhall transcript.
  • 50. "Careio," ibid.
  • 51. "Ponantur," ibid.
  • 52. A transcript and translation of this charter are recorded in the Guildhall MS. No. 122, vol. i. p. 14.
  • 53. In the previous month of April a similar restriction had been placed upon certain Portuguese and Teutonic merchants. Supra, p. 65.
  • 54. This name struck through, with the following words superscribed, viz., quia postea fecit finem et reconciliatus est.
  • 55. The preceding note applies.