Liber albus I: Fols. 281-300

Fols. 281–300

Absolution granted by John bishop of Bath and Wells to Master Richard Spycer canon of Wells from a sentence of major excommunication incurred by him according to the canon for laying violent hands even to the shedding of blood upon Sir John Askeby and Sir Henry Colles chaplains, (which fault the said Richard acknowledges,) until it be possible to visit the see of Rome, with proviso that he make amends to the said priests, and give a bond upon oath to start on his journey within two months, and to present himself there as soon as possible, having regard to the distance and the war which has broken out between England and France. Dated Banewell, 13 January 1380.
R.I. f. 281.

Grant by the president and chapter of Wells (in the dean's absence) to William de Odecumbe canon to be buried in the choir before the image of St. Peter, on the right of the tomb of Ralph late bishop of Bath and Wells, but in a humble place 10 feet distant therefrom southward, in consideration of his services and of his costly gifts to the church, namely one cope of Indian satin with images of the coronation and assumption of the Virgin woven in gold, with a gold button of great weight, and precious stones inserted, namely one ruby value 5 marks, three diamonds value 8 marks, 12 great pearls value 20s.; one red chasuble of satin woven with gold; one alb and amice with embroideries of the same suit; one stole and fanon (fanulum) of cloth of gold of another suit; two towels and two napkins of cunning work, one [] with napkin for the high altar, another for the altar of St. Mary behind the same to be used at high feasts. Dated the chapter house Wells, 6 April 1381.
R.I. f. 281.

List of the feasts to be kept as holidays (ab operibus), by decree of the archbishop and his suffragans. Sundays, to begin at the hour of vespers on Saturday (but not before, lest they seem partakers of the Jewish profession), and the same with feasts that have vigils; Christmas, St. Stephen, St. John, the Innocents, St. Thomas M., the Circumcision, Epiphany, Purification, St. Matthias, the Annunciation, Good Friday, Easter with the three following days, St. Mark, St. Philip and St. James, the Invention of Holy Cross, St. John ante Portam Latinam, the Ascension, Pentecost with the three following days, Corpus Christi, the Nativity of St. John Baptist, St. Peter and St. Paul, the Translation of St. Thomas M. (struck out by a later hand), St. Mary Magdalen, St. James Ap., the Assumption, St. Lawrence, St. Bartholomew, the Nativity of St. Mary, the Exaltation of Holy Cross, St. Matthew, St. Michael, St. Luke, St. Simon and St. Jude, All Saints, St. Andrew, St. Nicholas, the Conception, St. Thomas Ap., the dedication and patron saint of parish churches.
R.I. f. 281d. (see the Constitution of Islip, Lyndwood, p. 101.)

Citation by Thomas Mount canon of Wells and Thomas Harewell, special commissaries of the dean, to the vicar of Cheddre to appear at their visitation on Wednesday after St. Dunstan in the church of Cheddre, with mandate to cite the farmer of the place and all chaplains celebrating divine service within the parish, and to produce their muniments and letters of orders. Dated Wells, Monday after St. Nereus and St. Achilles 1381.
R.I. f. 281d.

Indenture of gift made by Henry Parker vicar of Dultyng to John Fordham dean of Wells and the chapter, by consent of John abbot of Glastonbury and the convent to whom that church is appropriated, of one acre of land which John Asch formerly held of him in a cultura called Estheyforlandg in his parish of the vicarage glebe or portion, extending eastward between land of Robert atte Asch on the south and of Richard Mayne (tenants of the abbey) on the north, and from the road leading from Dultyng to Chevelynch on the west to land of Robert atte Asch, Walter Parker and Thomas Quarrior on the east, in length on the south side 15 perches 8 feet, on the north 16 perches, at the east head 9 perches 6 feet, at the head 8 perches 4 feet, to hold of him and his successors for making a quarry to the fabric of the church of Wells, at a yearly rent of 18d. at Easter, with power to enter one acre of meadow called the acre of the fabric of the church of Wells, at a yearly rent of 18d. at Easter, with power to enter one acre of meadow called the acre of the fabric of the said church in Wottynnesmede (Wottonysmede) to distrain for arrears. Witnesses: William (de) Cammel precentor, John de Horssynton chancellor, Master Thomas de Byngham subdean, Master Richard Carleton, Master Robert Stonor canons of Wells, John Payeys de Purrygg, Walter Fulbrok, John Babynton. Dated the chapter house Wells, Monday after St. George 1381.
R.I. f. 281d.: III. f. 270.

Indenture of demise by the president and chapter of Wells (in the dean's absence) to Thomas Jay burgess of Wells, Juliana his wife and Joan their daughter for their lives, of a toft or void piece of ground on the east side of an alley called Mullelane, between the house of John Pestel taverner on the south and of John Broun on the north, at a yearly rent of 20s. payable on 5 March for 14 years, and after that of 6s. 8d. yearly on the same day, with convenant that they shall within two years new build and thereafter maintain the same. Witnesses: Nicholas Cristesham, Henry Bouedich, Richard Ferror, John Broun, Richard Laundei clerk. Dated Wells, Monday after St. Martin 5 Richard II.
R.I. f. 282.

Grant, dated Woky 14 April 1382, by John bishop of Bath and Wells to John Hayward and Agnes his wife for their lives, of a tenement in Wells between that late of Master Nicholas de Bathonia on the south and that late of John Potag' on the south (sic), to hold freely, saving suit of the bishop's court twice in the year, at a yearly rent of 12s. payable quarterly.

Confirmation thereof by the president and chapter of Wells, dated 17 the same month and year, and by the prior and chapter of Bath, dated 26 the same month and year.
R.I. f. 282d.

Memorandum that on 5 May 1382 in the cathedral of Wells Master Adam Damport was admitted to a canonry and the prebend of Dynre in the person of Walter Cras his proctor, and installed and inducted by mandate of the bishop.
R.I. f. 282d.

Memorandum that 22 May 1382 Sir John de Middelton was similarly admitted to the prebend of Combe prima in the person of John Colchestre clerk.
R.I. f. 282d.

Note of the obit of Master John de Horsynton chancellor of Wells, prebendary of Compton Bishop and farmer of Cheddre.
R.I. f. 282d.

Bond of Robert de Cheddre of Bristol to Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells in 200l.for a loan payable in the prebendal church of Wyvelescombe on Michaelmas day next. Dated Wyvelescombe, Tuesday after the Nativity of St.Mary 1362.

Memorandum that on Tuesday aforesaid Robert Cheddre in the guest chamber within the bishop's court at Wyvelescombe sealed the above bond, in presence of Walter de Aldebury, Robert atte Sloo canons of Wells, and R.de Tybryghton.(Signed) R.de Tybryghton, R.Sloo.
R.I. f. 283.

Sentence and monition of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, sitting in a chamber of his manor of Wyvelescombe 13 September 1362,(by Master Robert de Netelton his official,organum vocis sue,) upon the recognisance of Robert de Cheddre burgess of Bristol, executor of William Husee deceased, for a legacy of 200l.payable to the said bishop in the name of his church of Wells and to the said cathedral church on Michelmas next following this instant Michaelmas; and licence in the meantime to endow a perpetual chantry in the parish church of Cheddre of the yearly value of 10 marks for King Edward, the bishop and the said executor, and for their souls, such endowment to be full satisfaction of the sum above mentioned. In presence of Walter de Aldebury, Roger de Whythchurche, Robert atte Sloo, William Banastre canons of Wells, Robert Cauntilo rector of Wynfryth, Simon Gydelond rector of Henton St. George, John Yrysch rector of Laurton, Nicholas Spycer, William Whyte vicars in Wells, Walter Temdebury burgess of Wells. Attested by Roger son of William de Tybryghton clerk of Coventry and Lichfield diocese notary public.
R.I. f. 283.

[Heading to ƒ. 284:] Chapter Register compiled by Master Thomas Spert chancellor of Wells.

7 August 1382, in the chapter house Wells, William Cammel the precentor, by authority in writing of John Bishop of Bath and Wells, installed Master Thomas Spert as chancellor upon the said bishop's collation, the office being void by the death of John de Horsyndon, in presence of John Waryn canon of Wells, Thomas Elewelle, Philip Erdesleygh vicars thereof, Richard Laundy clerk.
R.I. f. 284.

8 August in the chapter house, W.Cammel, in presence of Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Thomas Byngham subdean, William Cokham succentor, Thomas Mount, John Waryn, William Chambure Canons constituting the chapter, presented to the church an antiphonary or legendary; also a cloth of gold which he had of the gift of the countess of Kent, an embroidered amice, two pieces of red bokeram and borders, and an orphrey bequeathed by bishop Ralph, all to make a cope, promising to make the same at his own cost provided it be reserved for his own use during his life. Also he made excuse upon oath (fide media) touching a statement inserted in the register in the chancellorship of John Horsyngton, that John Aunger late canon and steward to the chapter handed to the said William Cammel 20l. of the money arising at the tomb of bishop Ralph, which oath or excuse was accepted by the chapter.
R.I. f. 284.

9 August. Thomas Spert doctor of laws canon and prebendary of Wyvelescomb in the chapter house, in presence of William de Cammel the precentor, president, Thomas de Byngham doctor in theology subdean, William de Cokham succentor, William Odecomb, Thomas de Bokkyng', John Wareyn, William Chaumbre constituting the chapter, as senior resident who had no farm, received the farm of Wyhtchurch, void by the death of Richard de Carlton canon.
R.I. f. 284.

22 August in chapter John Wareyn, as proctor of Master Richard Spicer canon, received the canon's house void by the death of Master Robert Stonere canon, the said Richard being the senior resident who had no such house.
R.I. f. 284.

23 August. Master Richard Spicer in chapter himself received the said house.
R.I. f. 284d.

The same day the president and chapter assigned to Thomas Mount the church of Burnham to farm for the sum paid by Master Richard Carlton, upon condition that when any farm be due to him in rotation he shall either pass it over or resign Burnham at his option.
R.I. f. 284d.

Memorandum that 1 October 1366 Richard Harewell clerk was admitted canon by Master Thomas Spert president of the chapter, and installed in the prebend of Lutton.
R.I. f. 284d.

Licence granted by Thomas de Sudburia doctor of laws dean of Wells and the chapter to Thomas Tark' vicar of the prebendal stall of Jatton for seven years' non-residence, provided he spend the time in study at the university of Oxford, and provide at his own cost the service of a chaplain in the priest's office, as the said prebend requires. Dated the chapter house Wells, 2 January 1384.
R.I. f. 285d.

Record of proceedings by John Russell attorney for the dean and chapter of Wells against Walter Hamme vicar of St. Cuthbert Wells, to recover arrears of a yearly rent of 20 marks to them due in right of their church of St. Andrew from time immemorial, namely 46s. 8d. at Easter, 40s. at Midsummer, 66s. 8d. at St. Peter ad vincula, 66s. 8d.at the Nativity of the Virgin, 46s. 8d. at Christmas, which defendnat up to 28 November 7 the now king has refused to pay: damages claimed 100l. Defendant, by John Brokhampton his attorney, states that when institued, upon plaintiffs' presentation, he found his vicarage discharged of the said rent, and prays in aid the patrons and bishop, without whom he can neither charge nor discharge the same. On the octave of Michaelmas the bishop also appears by John Horneslowe his attorney and makes himself a party, but cannot gainsay that the rent is due, and in arrear. Judgment for plaintiffs, for 40 marks, and 40s. damages, which plaintiffs remit.
R.I. f. 286d.

Appropriation by John bishop of Bath and Wells, by licence of the king, with consent of the dean and chapter of Wells, the prior and chapter of Bath, and Master Thomas Bakton proctor of the archdeacon of Wells, of the chruch of Estcoker upon the death or cession of Peter de Fallewell now rector, (together with that of Honington, Exeter diocese,) to the dean and chapter of Exeter, for the maintenance of a chantry founded by Sir Philip de Cowrtenay knight and Master Robert Broke clerk, with the consent of Thomas bishop of Exeter and of the dean and chapter of Exeter, in the cathedral church of St. Peter Exeter (where Sir Hugh de Cowrtenay late earl of Devon lies, and the Lady Margaret his relict propose to be buried) for four priests to sing masses daily at the tombe of Sir Hugh in the nave for his soul and the souls of his father and mother, the parents of the Lady Margaret, and after their decease of the Lady Margaret herself, William de Cowrtenay archbishop of Canterbury her son, the said Philp, Sir Peter de Cowrtnay, the other children of Hugh and Margaret, and the said Robert Broke, whereto the advowsons of the said chruches are already appropriated by licence of King Richard [II], such priests to be presented by the Lady Margaret, after her death by the said archbishop, Philip, and Peter alternately, and after their decease by the dean and chapter of Exeter, to be perpetual, sworn to obey the chapter, and there and not elsewhere without other benefice or salary to celebrate daily the masses and services severally specified, and to be paid by the dean and chapter (as soon as the said churches shall be at their disposal) 6l. yearly and a portion of every obit: the dean and chapter to be charged with the maintenance of missal, chalice, vestments, ornaments, bread and wine, provided the founders find the same in the first instance and pay on the anniversary of Sir Hugh, Lady Margaret, their sons and daughters (the vigil of the Invention of Holy Cross) and of their parents (22 December) to every canon present 12d., to every vicar 6d. to every mass priest (presbiter annuelarius) or clerk of the second form 4d. every chorister boy 2d. and every altar warden (custor sive custos) 6d. (subject to diminution or cessation in case of failure of income or deprivation of the said appropriated churches or one of them); reserving a suitable portion for a vicar to be by the said dean and chapter presented, namely the hall of the rectory and chambers adjoining, kitchen, brewhouse etc. and a small garden adjacent with ingress and egress by the great gate and the postern, the moiety of a void piece of ground between the said gate and the stable opposite [*the great gate and postern and the whole void piece of ground, R. III], the dovecote with the great garden adjacent, [*the bovary on the north side of the said gate, R. III], the profit of the grass and trees in the churchyard, 2 acres of meadow of the best of the rectory demesne, [*tithes, R.III] panage in the lord's wood of Escoker, and underwood for firing with a log at Christmas as the rectors had, and all the alderwood of the rectory demesne, tithes of woodfalls, calves, lambs, swine, fowls, geese, ducks, doves, [*eggs, mortuaries, R. III]wools, woolfells, milk, cheese and milkmeats, flax and hemp in the fields or gardens, and all small tithes and oblations within the parish,† a yearly pension of 59s. payable at Christmas and Midsummer by the dean and chapter [†omitted in R. III, and instead: *the rents of cottages and tenements belonging to the rectory]; the vicar to maintain the chancel, pay tenths and other subsidies to the pope and king, procurations to the nuncio and the archdeacon, the Easter rent, the gift called St. Martin's, 2s. to the chantry of St. Mary in the said church, and find processional candles, also a pension of 40d. to the bishop and another of 13s. 4d. yearly to the dean and chapter of Wells, and support other rectorial charges, and the canons of Exeter when they come thither on business of the church shall be received in the vicarage house and have for their stay sufficient fuel of the said alderwood. Dated Woky, 24 June 1385, in presence of Nicholas his suffragan bishop of Christopolis, John Grene canon of Wells, John Radestone, Sir Philip Rodde rector of Waterleygh [Watelegh] and Thomas atte Lee chaplain of his diocese. Attested by Robert Sloo clerk of Bath and Wells diocese notary public.

Confirmation by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter, and by John prior of Bath and the chapter, dated 25 and 26 June.

R.I. ff. 287–8 (carelessly written); the first few lines repeated f. 292d.; recited fully, III. ff. 141–144. The words in square brackets * are from another version of this instrument, fully recited R.III. ff. 138–141, where an award is given in favour of the version here registered.

Wells, 10 July 1385. Present in chapter, Master Thomas Sudburia dean, William Cammel precentor, Thomas Spert chancellor, Thomas Byngham subdean, John Waryn, Walter Hethenham, [John Upton, struck out], William Chaumbre, Gregory Bottele, Thomas Alston, and Richard Spycer canons, commission was given to John Upton canon to correct the canons if any should need correction.
R.I. f. 288d.

24 July. Present in chapter the dean, the precentor, the chancellor, the subdean, John Wareyn, Thomas Bockyng', Walter de Hethenam, John Hope, John Upton, William Chambor, Gregory Butleirs', Thomas Halston, and Richard Spycer, the dean with their consent remitted the statutory penalty incurred by William Odecumb for default of payment to Sir John Tyntenhyll the communar for Midsummer term last, the said William being present and acknowledging the default.
R.I. f. 288d.

Grant by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter to Thomas Elwelle and Nicholas Faace vicars therein and principals of the common hall of the new vicars' close, of a faculty to enter, possess, take and dispose of the fruits of the church of Kyngestan, void by the resignation of Master Robert Cheterne late rector, which church had been appropriated to the said dean and chapter to the use of the vicars upon the death or cession of the said rector by authority of the diocesan. Dated the chapter house, 19 September 1385.
R.I. f. 289.

Commission by Thomas de Sudburia doctor of laws dean of Wells and the chapter to Master Lambert More, to hear causes and deal with offences concerning their ecclesiastical court within their jurisdiction of Northcori, the probate of wills etc. for one year. Dated the chapter house, 24 September 1385.
R.I. f. 289.

Sentence of John bishop of Bath and Wells confirming the claims made at his late visitation by the abbot and convent of Glastonbury to the appropriated churches of Sowy, Doultyng, St. John Glastonbury (served by a removable chaplain nominated by the sacrist), Estpennard, Merlynch, Schapwyk, Estbrynte, and Mere with the chapels etc. the portions of the vicarages excepted, to the jurisdiction over the seven churches of St. John Glastonbury, Buddecle, Strete, Sowy, Merlynch, Schapwyk and Mere with the chapels etc. to be exercised by an archdeacon nominated by the abbot, and to pensions of 4 marks from the church of Doultyng, 20s. from that of Schapwyk, 40s. from that of Hamme, 13s. 4d. from that of Wynescumb, 6s. 8d. from that of Jevechester, 60s. from that of Strete, 13s. 4d. from that of Camelerton, 10s. from that of Middelton, 6s. 8d. from that of Berghe, 100s. from that of Merlynch, 40s. from that of Wryngton, 40s. from that of Dychysyate, 20s. from that of Batecombe, 13s. 4d. from that of Estpennard, 20s. from that of Mellys, 20s. from that of Buddecle, 26s. 8d. from that of Monketon, 13s. 4d. from that of Estbrynte, and 13s. 4d. from that of Lympysam, after taking the evidence of witnesses and documents upon a set day. Dated Woky, 12 September 1385.

Confirmation by the prior and chapter of Bath, dated 14 September, and by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter (saving the rights customs and dignity of their cathedral, and the visitation of the bishop) dated 24 September the same year.
R.I. ff. 289–290. Adam de Domerham, i. 273.

Admission by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and auditor of the papal palace and the chapter of Wells of Master Andrew Baret canon of Wells and another auditor of the papal palace for his services to a resident canonry of Wells, upon payment of 40l.for his fine and to redeem his banquet therein at beginning his new residence, according to their statutes and customs, provided he claim no great distribution, but only the daily distribution when present, until he shall have kept his statutory residence, but nevertheless shall make the usual payment to the vicars.
R.I. f. 290.

23 December 1385. Present in chapter, Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Thomas Byngham subdean, Master Thomas Bockyng', William Chaumbor, John Upton, Walter Wyncaulton, John Wareyn, Gregory Butleygh, [Robert Clyst and Thomas Frome, added between the lines] canons, Master Richard Spicer canon was charged with using abusive language to Master Thomas de Sudburia the dean, and made his submission to the chapter, saving his benefices.

24 December. Present, the dean, chancellor, subdean, John Waryn, [William de Odecombe, added as above] and other canons, Master Richard Spycer being asked by the dean whether he would abide by his submission declined to do so, saying he would not unless his estate and benefices were saved: wherefore the dean, in writing, with consent of those present, suspended him from his canon's habit, his greater and lesser commons and the other proventions of the church.
R.I. f. 290d. (These minutes have been tampered with.)

5 December (sic). Present in chapter, the dean, chancellor, subdean, John Waryn and other canons, Master Richard Spycer said that he would abide by the ordinance of teh dean and chapter, and at the dean's order prostrated himself and asked pardon: whereupon the dean, with consent of those present, absolved him, and released the sentence of suspension.

Form of absolution with condition for good behaviour.
R.I. f. 290d.

20 April 1386 about the hour of vespers: present in the chapter Master Thomas de Sudburia the dean, Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Thomas Byngham subdean, John Wareyn, Thomas Bockyng', [Walter Ethenam struck out], John Upton, Walter Wyncaulton, William Odecumb. William Chaumbor, Gregory Butteleygh, Thomas Alston, Thomas Frome canons, Master Thomas Byngham, senior resident having no farm, accepted the farm of teh churches of Modeford and Lovyngton, void by the death of William Cammel the precentor prebendary of Worminstre, which was thereupon assigned to him.
R.I. f. 291.

26 April. Before the said chapter (except William Odecumb) about the third hour, Master Edmund Saynteloo canon of Wells and prebendary of Cumbe terciadecima, the senior resident having no canon's house and no farm, accepted the house in which William Odecumb dwelt, and the farm of the parish church of St. Cudbert with canon bern, void by the death of the said William: and they were assigned to him by the dean with consent of the chapter.

R.I. f. 291.

12 May the same year. Before Master Thomas Spert chancellor (in the dean's absence), Master Thomas Bockyng', Master Richard Spycer, John Upton, William Chaumbor, Gregory Butteleygh, Walter Ethenam, Thomas Alston, Robert Clyst and Thomas Frome canons of Wells forming the chapter, Richard Turnedyk' and Robert Hawe vicars were charged by the president with saying the litany carelessly (indevote et discrepando) in procession on the 11 May: they acknowleged the fault, and were told that in case of a repetition they should take their places on three solemn days with candles in their hands in the lowest rank of the boys.

R.I. f. 291.

Grant by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter to Master Edmund Seyntloo canon of Wells of canon's houses and the farm of the canon's grange void by the death of William Odecombe canon. Dated the chapter house Wells, Thursday after St. Mark 1386.

R.I. f. 291d.

The king's signet recommending the election as bishop of his clerk and secretary Richard Medeford, with promises of his favour: forwarded by John Peraut serjeant of arms. Dated Wyndesor castle, 14 December. (French.)
R.I. f. 292d.

Licence granted by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter to John Orum vicar there to absent himself for three years, taking his stipend, and to stay wherever general study flourishes in England, providing another fit vicar to perform his services. Dated the chapter house Wells, 1 October 1388.

R.I. f. 292d.

24 September 1388. In the chapter house Wells, before Master Thomas de Sudburia dean, Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Thomas Byngham subdean, Master Thomas Bockyng', Master William Chaumbre, Master Gregory Butlegh, Thomas Alston, Robert Clyst and Thomas Frome canons resident, appeared Master Richard Harewell canon of Wells and prebendary of Lutton and protested his wish to reside according to the statute during the next year: he was admitted by the dean with consent of the chapter, 12 February.

R.I. f. 292d.

20 August 1387. In the chapter house Wells, before Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Thomas Byngham subdean, Master Thomas Bokkyng', Master William Chomber, Master Gregory Botteleye, Thomas Alston, Robert Kyllyst and Thomas Frome canons resident, appeared Master Robert Rygge doctor of divinity chancellor of Oxford canon of Wells and prebendary of Doulkot, and protested his wish to reside the next year: admitted.
R.I. f. 293.

5 November the same year. In the chapter house, present, Master Thomas de Suddeburia the dean, William Chomber and others (Master Thomas Spert and Master Thomas Bokkyng' being absent but consenting, likewise John Waryn, Walter Wyncalton, John Upton and Robert Perley), the dean with their consent declared that Master Robert Rugge should stand next to Robert Perley for canons' houses and farms, and acknowledged 43l. received of Master Robert for his banquet.
R.I. f. 293.

26 March 1388. In the chapter house, before Master Thomas de Sudburia dean, Master Andrew Baret archdeacon of Wells, Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Ralph Berners succentor, Master Thomas Byngham subdean, Thomas Bockyng', John Hope, William Chaumbre, Gregory Butteleyg', John Wareyn, Thomas Alston, John Upton, Robert Rigge, Richard Aldrington canons, appeared Sir Thomas Newman vicar having the dean's order to cite Richard Spicer canon, and reported that he had cited him at his manse within the city of Wells and in his choir stall of the prebend of Eston, for laying hands upon Sir William Hope chaplain vicar of Wells: the said Richard did not appear, and was for his contumacy suspended from entering the church or taking his commons, and ordered to appear before the dean and chapter on Monday after St. Ambrose.
R.I. f. 293.

19 September 1388. In the chapter house, before Master Thomas Spert chancellor and president of the chapter (in the dean's absence), Master Thomas Byngham subdean, Master Ralph Berners succentor, Master Thomas Bockyng', Walter Wyncalton, William Chaumbre, Gregory Buttleigh, Robert Clyst, Thomas Frome, Robert Sloo, John Grene and Robert Rigg' canons, Master Lambert More bachelor in laws, proctor of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells lately translated, exhibited a papal bull (as below)touching the said bishop's translation; and the chapter promised obedience to the said bishop.
R.I. f. 293d.

[Bull of Pope Urban [VI] addressed to the chapter of Wells, announcing the translation of Walter bishop of Bath and Wells to the see of Durham, and the translation of Ralph bishop of Salisbury to the see of Bath and Wells. Dated Perugia, iii non. April 10 Pope Urban VI.]
R.I. f. 293d.(cancelled).

24 September 1388. Before the president and chapter appeared Master Richard de Harewell canon of Wells and prebendary of Lutton and made protestation of his wish to reside the next year.
R.I. f. 294.

1 October the same year. Before the president and chapter appeared John Lye vicar, not yet made perpetual for that he had not used diligence to learn by heart the antiphonary, psalter and hymnal, and for his probity of manners was granted until Michaelmas next to learn the same.
R.I. f. 294.

30 September 1388. Master Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter, for respect to the king (who sends letters on their behalf) and to Walter bishop of Durham (late bishop of Bath and Wells), granted to Sir William Ryal vicar of the prebendal stall of Wandestr' licence of non-residence for three years, provided they be in the said bishop's service.
R.I. f. 294.

Note that a writ was served on the dean and chapter of Wells 16 March 1388, concerning the king's right to collate to the office of treasurer and the possession thereof by William Langbrook, who has been admitted upon his collation; tested at Westminister, 6 March 12 Richard[II].
R.I. f. 294d. See above, p. 284.

13 September 1389. Master Thomas Spert chancellor of Wells (locum tenens of Master Thomas de Sudburia the dean, in his absence) admitted Sir John Deye chaplain to a chantry in the parish church of Chedder void by the death of Sir John Aschfolde, upon the presentation of Sir Thomas Brok' knight: Sir John Wyttok vicar thereof to induct.
R.I. f. 294d.

14 January 1389. Present in chapter Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Ralph Berners succentor, Master Thomas Bokkyng', John Hope, William Chaumbre, Gregory Buttleygh, John Upton, Thomas Frome, Robert Slo, John Grene, and robert Rugg' canons, Master John Upton bringing the consent of Master Thomas de Sudburia the dean, Sir William Hope vicar craved licence to pass over to Rome, and to serve his chantry in the chapel of St.Mary by the cloister of Wells, to which he was presented by Sir John Chediok knight, by John Putte another vicar: licence granted, provided the said William make provision for performance of his duty of reading the gospel and wearing his cope in the choir as vicar of the stall of Cumbe tercia.
R.I. f. 294d.

Mandate of William archbishop of Canterbury to the dean and chapter of Wells to produce in the parish church of Croydon before Wednesday after St. Barnabas the foundation and institution of the provostship of Wells and all statutes, constitutions and muniments concerning the same, or copies under their seal, the archbishop having received a writ from the king, tested at Westminster 27 May 13 Richard [II], in a suit between the king and Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells and Roger Holm clerk, directing him to make inquisition and certify whether the said office is compatible with a benefice with cure of souls or other benefice. Dated Croydon, 4 June 1390.
R.I. f. 295.

Answer of the dean and chapter to the above mandate, stating that they have searched their archives, statutes, constitutions and other muniments, and enclosing all they have found that concerns the provostship. Dated the chapter house Wells, 10 June the same year.
R.I. f. 295.

Writ of certiorari from the king addressed to the dean and chapter chapter of Wells, directing them to search their recrods concerning the provostship, and certify him whether it be a dignity, office or parsonage with or without cure. Tested at Westminster, 29 April 13 Richard [II].
R.I. f. 295.

Return to the above writ by the dean and chapter, enclosing all they have found concerning the provostship. Dated the chapter house Wells, 28 May 1390.
R.I. f. 295d.

Return to a further writ, tested at Westminster 19 June 13 Richard[II], stating that after diligent search it has been found that the provostship does not from its foundation nor by reason of custom, oath or statute require holy orders or personal residence, nor has it cure of souls or spiritual jurisdiction, nor has the provost by reason of his provostship a voice in an election, or a place in the chapter or preeminence, but is free from every such bond; that the vicars of the churches attached to the provostship have the cure of souls each in his parish and not the provost; that the bishop of Bath and Wells has spiritual jurisdiction in the churches of Welyngton and Cherde, the dean and chapter of Wells in those of Wynsham and Cumba St. Nicholas thereto attached and not the provost, but the provost has to answer for temporalities according to the foundation; that it is not held to be a dignity or [prelacy ?] nor a parsonage in the church of Wells, but an office of charge, and was so held from its first foundation time out of mind: that it is held to be an office without cure incompatible dignity, as appears by divers persons holding the same, namely John de Sancto Paulo archdeacon of Cornwall, Andrew Ufford archdeacon of Middlesex, Adam Hylton treasurer of York, William Wykeham archdeacon of Lincoln, John Newenham rector of Fenny Staunton, Walter Frelond rector of Crystynmalford, who held therewith those benefices named. Dated the chapter house Wells, 12 July 14 Richard [II].
R.I. f. 295d.

Return to a further writ, tested at Westminster 15 July 14 Richard [II], upon the same subject. Dated Wells, 20 September the same year.
R.I. f. 296.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the president and chapter of Wells (in the absence of Thomas de Sudburia the dean), dated 5 December 1390, with reservation as to issue yet to be begotten, of the manumission of his neif, Nicholas Kyng, son of John Kyng of Merke Brygge, and his issue begotten or to be begotten, granted by Thomas de Sudburia the dean for his good service; dated Wells, 10 May 13 Richard [II].
R.I. f. 296.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the dean and chapter of Wells, dated 20 February the same year, of a grant made by Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells to Henry Spartegrove, Agnes his wife, and Alice their daughter for their lives, of a piece of land in his watercourse at Wells in the Berton at the end of the said Henry's garden to build a fulling mill thereon, and a piece of land there to be put up a rack (rakka) as it is enclosed, at a yearly rent of 10s. payable quarterly, with warranty: dated Evercrich, 10 February 14 Richard II.
R.I. f. 296d.

Memorandum that 19 June 1391 in the chapter house of Wells, present Thomas de Subburia dean, Thomas Byngham subdean, Ralph Berneres succentor, Thomas Bokyngge, Walter Hethenham, Walter Wynkauton, Gregory Botteleye, John Upton, Thomas Alston, Thomas Frome, Robert Sloo and John Grene canons, leave of absence was granted to Master John Orom vicar to study for three years in the university of Oxford.
R.I. f. 296d.

(f. 297 wanting).

Memorandum that 2 August 1391, present in chapter Thomas de Sudburia dean, T. Byngham subdean, Ralph Berners succentor, Thomas Bockyng', Walter Wyncaulton, Gregory Buttelegh, John de Upton, Thomas Alston, Thomas Frome, Robert Sloo, John Grene and Richard Harewell canons, Robert Perle canon resident presented to the vicarage of his stall, void by the death of William Winchecumbe, a youth named Robert Wodelond his kinsman: the vicars present had commission to examine him in reading and chanting, and in their name Sir Roger Mellys reported that he was able to read and chant but had a youthful voice: after which the dean ordered him to be invested in the vicar's habit, and installed by Sir John Baryngton vicar, and because of his youth gave him a dispensation to be absent for one year's learning at the schools.
R.I. f. 298.

4 August the same year. Before the dean and canons last above written, John Huwyssch abbot of Athelney was installed canon and prebendary of Langsotton, and sworn.
R.I. f. 298.

Memorandum that at the altar of St. Nicholas by the cloister Wells is a chantry, value 4 marks yearly, to be collated by the chancellor, the succentor, and the subdean in successive years on the feast of St. Jerome: and Sir William Belde vicar and chaplain of Wells was collated by Thomas Spert chancellor in 1391.
R.I. f. 298.

Inspeximus and confirmation by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter, dated 8 January 1391, of the manumission of John Skete the elder and John Skete the younger his son and their issue begotten or to be begotten, granted by Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells; dated Evercrych, 3 January 1791.
R.I. f. 298d.

Consent in writing of Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter that Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells may dispose of the remaining materials of houses and buildings of the bishop's manor of Blakford, to the demolition of which by John Harewell late bishop they had previously consented, (such buildings having been formerly erected on a sumptuous scale, and though in no way necessary, absorbing yearly large sums in repairs,) and also to the demolition of any houses or buildings within the bishop's manor of Congresbury, except the barn there, as unnecessary and superfluous, considering that the bishop has several neighbouring manors fully sufficient for his residence even if they were fewer.
R.I. f. 298d.

11 March 1391. Present in chapter Thomas Spert chancellor, Thomas Byngham subdean, Ralph Berners succentor, Thomas Bokkyng', John Wareyn, Walter Ethenam, Gregory Buttelegh, John Upton, Thomas Alston, Robert Sloo, John Grene, Richard Harewell canons: leave of absence was granted to Sir Thomas Elewell vicar until Michaelmas next.
R.I. f. 299.

28 June 1392. Present in chapter Master Thomas de Sudburia dean, Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Thomas Byngham subdean, Ralph Berners succentor, Thomas Bockyng', John Wareyn, Walter Ethenam, Gregory Butteleygh, John Upton, Thomas Alston, Robert Sloo, John Grene, Richard Harewell canons resident: appeared Master Roger Harewell archdeacon of Bath and prebendary of Compton Dundon, and made protestation of his desire to reside the next year, and was admitted. Attested by T. Lye.
R.I. f. 299

Inspeximus and confirmation by Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells and the chapter, dated 8 March the same year, of the inspeximus and confirmation by Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, patron of Cristmalford, dated Chiew 7 January 1392, of the manumission of Thomas Croke alias Frende of Malmesbury, his children and all that goes with him, granted by Thomas Walton rector of Cristmalford, and dated Friday after St. Petronilla 14 Richard II.
R.I. f. 299d.

12 May 1393. Before Master Thomas de Sudburia dean of Wells, Master Thomas Spert chancellor, Master Roger Harewell archdeacon of Bath, Thomas Byngham subdean, Ralph Berners succentor, Walter Ethenam, Gregory Butteleygh, Walter Wyncaulton, Robert Sloo, John Grene, Robert Perley and Richard Bruton canons resident in chapter assembled, appeared Richard Hull vicar, who was charged by the dean (though sworn to the customs of the church, as he acknowledged) with frequently disturbing divine service especially in the choir, with strolling about the columns of the church during service in the choir to converse with laymen, with allowing his hair to grow and not keepting his tonsure, nor taking subdeacon's orders in due time, and with not applying himself to learn the psalter, hymnal and antiphonary, all of which he acknowledged; wherefore the dean appointed eight days later to shew cause why he should not be condemned for perjury.

Afterwards on 16 May, before the same persons sitting judicially, the said Richard Hull was further charged with using defamatory words of the said canons. (Incomplete.)
R.I. f. 299d.