Liber albus I: Fols. 181-200

Fols. 181–200

Dispensation granted by John de Godele dean of Wells and the chapter to Master Walter de Hulle vicar of Wells for his diligence in their service, to take the profits of his vicarage (the daily distributions and those for anniversaries of the dead excepted) without being bound to know by heart divine service or to perform residence. Dated in the chapter of Wells, 29 May 1329.
R.I. f. 181.

Grant by J. Godele dean of Wells and the chapter to William Joye master of the fabric of their church for good service, beyond his stipend when present, of 30s. 6d. a year for life payable half yearly by the warden of the fabric, so that he be bound every year when necessary to oversee repairs therein and give his counsel and aid. Dated Wells, 28 July 1329.
R.I. f. 181.

Ordinance by John de Godelee dean of Wells and the chapter, for the benefits conferred upon the church of St. Andrew by Robert Cormailles late deceased, that two chaplains for ever shall celebrate in the chapel of St. Katherine, St. Mary Magdalen and St. Margaret in the said church for the souls of the said Robert, of John de Drokensforde late bishop, and of Richard de Alresforde late canon, taking yearly of the maonor of Northcory 10 marks for maintenance payable quarterly by the communar; the dean to collate, or in default the chapter, and upon their default the bishop; and the bishop to make inquiry touching such celebration at every visitation. Dated in the chapter of Wells, Thursday after St. Matthew 1329.
R.I. f. 181.

Reply of J. de Godelee dean of Wells and the chapter to the request of John de Mouhoun knight, for his favour towards their church, receiving him in life or death to a share in the prayers, masses etc. of the said church. Dated in the chapter of Wells, St. Dunstan's day 1330.
R.I. f. 181d.

Petition of the dean and chapter of Wells to Pope John to confirm the election of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, commending him especially for his eminence in knowledge and virtue, and declaring that had any papal reservation (as alleged) been known to the electors or to the bishop elect, neither would they have proceeded to election, nor would he have submitted to consecration, that they elected him by inspiration from above, and earnestly postulate him for thier bishop.
R.I. f. 181d.

Reply of the dean and chapter of Wells to a letter of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, written at Dogmersfeld id. October, stating that the bishop has been credibly informed that his predecessor pledged a valuable and becoming mitre with a burgess of London, and that the king's ministers are anxious to redeem and appropriate the same, and offering if they will agree to do all he can to recover the said mitre for his own use, so that it may remain afterwards in the church of Wells: they assent, and send by John Duyne the bishop's messenger a mitre (valued at 100s.), a pastoral staff (10 marks), a silver censer (4 marks) and two silver candlesticks (12 marks) to be given back to them at Wells on Michaelmas day following, requesting him to send his bond by the next messenger. Dated in the chapter of Wells, 23 October 1329.
R.I. f. 182.

Receipt of John Duyn to the dean and chapter of Wells for one mitre, one pastoral staff, one silver censer, and two silver candlesticks (valued as above), to be given back in the church of Wells on Michaelmas day next, with bond for the same, and his oath upon the gospels. Dated Wells, 23 October 1329.
R.I. f. 182.

Appointment by John de Godele dean of Wells and the chapter of Sir Hugh de Alresford clerk to be steward and overseer of their manors, farms, churches and lands. Dated Wells, 3 November 3 Edward III. (French).
R.I. f. 182d.

Quiclaim by William son of William atte Ferlyng to the dean and chapter of Wells of 3 acres of meadow in Cnappe in the manor of Northcory, and all and singular places in the manor of Knappe and Northcory whereof they were seised on that day in demesne, as in services, rents of free tenants and of villeins, with the reversions thereof. Witnesses: Walter atte Hach, John atte Slo, Hugh atte Hele, William Colne, Philip le Yreys, Walter Caucy, Walter le Bole. Dated Northcori, Saturday the octave of St. Martin 3 Edward III.
R.I. f. 182d.

Receipt of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells to the dean and chapter of Wells for one mitre, one pastoral staff, one silver censer value 4½ marks, and two candlesticks (valued as before), to be given back on Michaelmas day next, with bond for the same. Dated Dogmersfeld, id. November 1329.

Note interpolated here: 'Hic cum sedisset in episcopatu Bathoniensi annis xxxiii obiit et Wellie tumulatus inter gradus chori et summum altare.'
R.I. f. 182d.

Special proxy by John de Godelee dean of Wells and the chapter to John Hilebrond of Alueston in the parish of Schirebourn clerk, to collect the alms of the faithful given to the brotherhood of St. Andrew throughout the bishopric, and all gifts and legacies towards the fabric of the church of Wells (those exceeding half a mark, and those of canons, vicars, and men of the city and suburb of Wells excepted). Dated in the chapter of Wells, xiii kal. January 1329.

Memorandum that John Hilebrond's sureties were Stephen de Wedmor, John Craft, Robert le Salter, and William Whynde burgesses of Wells, who gave their bond remaining in the treasury.
R.I. f. 182d.

Answer of the dean and chapter of Wells to a mandate of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, dated London, ix kal. February 1 bishop Ralph, requiring them within eight days to find and exemplify by the hand of a notary public certain proceedings or muniments contained, as the bishop is creditably informed, in their archives, chronicles and register, which if brought to light would maintain unimpared the dignity of the archdeaconry of Wells, and return them to him by the bearer under pain of excommunication, and to inform him further by letter within six days after of their intentions, expressing surprise that they have ignored his former injunction: in which they object to the mandate as uncanonical, because (1) by the canons, sentence of excommunication upon a university or college is forbidden, nor may such penalty be threatened when in case of disobedience it cannot be inflicted; (2) a mandate or precept cannot be issued on a mere information without any cognisance of a cause, wherefore in like case the form used by the court of Rome adds the condition 'si ita est'; (3) as to the alleged muniments maintaining the archdeacon's dignity unimpaired, so ready credence should not have been given to an unsupported statement, nor such a mandate issued, for the question is not as to the rights of that dignity, but whether the collation belongs to the king, at any rate for this turn, a different matter altogether; (4) the chapter are not bound to obey the bishop; but add that out of respect to him, so far as pressure of business would allow, they have obeyed his mandate, and are sending what could be found in their archives by Master John de Wamberg canon, excusing themselves for delay by reason of a mandate of the king by Sir Hugh de Langlond knight, lately received. Dated in the chapter of Wells, St. Scolastics.
R.I. f. 183.

Grant by Hugh de Lymyngton vicar in the cathedral of Wells to John de Godelegh dean of Wells and the chapter of 10s. yearly rent in Wells of his tenement with curtilage granted by Sir John de Draycote chaplain, situate in the street towards the Mountorie between the tenement of Master Walter de Hulle on the south and of Sir Richard de Chidingfolde on the north, together with the reversion thereof, to keep his obit in the choir and to divide among the canons and vicars present, to hold to them and their successors in frank almoin for ever. Dated Wells, iv kal. April 1323. Witnesses: Roger de Middelton, Adam de Chelworth, William Stot, Nicholas de Baak,' Richard de Prestleygh, Roger de Corsham, Thomas le Mason.
R.I. f. 183d.

Letter of credence from the dean and chapter of Wells in favour of Sir Adam de Sutton priest, their vicar, to obtain oil to be consecrated on Holy Thursday for the use of the church of Wells and the whole diocese of Bath. (Addressed to the bishop of Exeter: margin.) Dated Wells, 2 April.
R.I. f. 183d.

Memorandum that xii kal. July 1330 the houses wherein Thomas de Kelmescote in his life time dwelt were granted to Sir Thomas de Lechlade vicar of Wells: and that xv kal. August Sir Richard de Braye vicar was appointed by the dean and chapter to dwell with him therein during their lives.

Also on the latter date the houses wherein Richard de Braidwelt, situate by those late of John de Palton, were granted by the dean and chapter to Sir John de Camell'.
R.I. f. 184.

Letters patent of King Edward III, being a licence in mortmain to Hamelin de Godele to convey to the dean and chapter of Wells a messuage, one carucate of land and 60s. rent in Stokgommer (not held of the king, of the yearly value of 73s. 4d. beyond the rent, as found by inquisition of the sheriff) towards finding two chaplains to celebrate daily in the said church for the souls of Edward I, Edward II and their heirs, bishop John de Droknesford, Robert de Cormailles and Richard de Alresford (in part satisfaction of a licence in mortmain granted by King Edward II to the said late bishop to acquire lands and rents to the yearly value of 10l. and the advowson of one church, and convey them for that purpose, he having died without so doing); and to the dean and chapter to hold the same. Tested at Notyngham, 13 September 4 Edward III.

Note that this was examined with the original charter in the treasury of Wells xiv kal. April 1338, in presence of Sir John de Fifhide and Sir Edmond Buler vicars, and William de Compton clerk.
R.I. f. 184. Patent, Cal. p. 6.

Award of Sir Nicholas de Langelonde knight, Master Antony de Bradeneye and William de Bourne canons of Wells, between the abbot and convert of Glastonbury appropriators of St. John Glastonbury on the one part, and John de Godel' dean of Wells rector of Wedmor on the other, touching tithes great and small issuing from the demesne lands of John de Northelode lord of Northelode claimed by both parties; namely that the dean and his successors shall take all the small tithes of the demesne lands, meadows and pastures of the said John at Northelode which he holds now enclosed or after to be enclosed, and of his mill, dovecote and garden on the south side of his court, and the whole fruits of one acre of corn and one of oats of his demesne lands, together with the tithes great and small of tenants and villeins of the said abbot and convent in Pathoneberghe, and of the said John and his heirs in Northelode and la Thele of all their holdings in villenage, saving to the monks and their successors the great tithes of the demesne lands, meadows, purprestures and read bed of the said John enclosed or hereafter to be enclosed, and the small tithe of his garden on the north side of his court. Sealed by the parties and by both chapters. Dated in the chapters respectively of Glastonbury and Wells, 15 June 1310.
R.I. f. 184d.

Agreement, dated Thursday after the Translation of St. Thomas M. 1310, between Geoffrey abbot of Glastonbury and the convent on the one part and John de Godele dean of Wells (with consent of the chapter) on the other, that whereas the dean has enclosed 600 acres of land in his moors below Wedmor between Cockelake and Northelode to hold in severalty, the abbot and convent ratify such enclosure, and quitclaim their common of pasture thereupon, saving to their tenants of Patheneberghe, Bledeneye and Clyware common of pasture in the residue of the moors at all times of the year. Sealed by the convent and the chapter of Wells. Dated in both chapters, as above.
R.I. f. 184d.

Indenture between John de Godelee dean of Wells and Adam abbot of Glastonbury touching alleged trespasses and disseisins in the dean's manor of Modeslee and in the abbot's manor of Mere, and pleas upon the king's writs (wherein the dean claimed the moor called la Yelemore extending from the dyke called Padenebertheslak on the east by the water of Ferlingmere pool and the rhine down to the dyke called the Lichelak on the west as belonging to his manor of Modeslee, and complained that the abbot cut down his trees and threw down buildings thereon, and the abbot claimed the same as belonging to his manor of Mere); whereby it is agreed that the portion of the moor not enclosed be divided into two parts of equal value, that nearer the Lichelak to remain to the dean and his successors, that nearer the watercourse called Padenesberthlak to the abbot and his successors; and the abbot and his successors may maintain his weirs called Hachwere, Bordenewere and Pariswere taking what they need of the dean's soil for that purpose on notice to his bailiff, except that if any of them be upon the abbot's soil he shall take of his own land, saving to the abbot and his successors the whole pool called Ferlyngmere with the watercourse thence to the Lichelake with opportunity and sole right to fish there, saving to the dean and his successors, their tenants free or villein and the commoners access thereto for watering their cattle and liberty to cross by boat daily from sunrise to sunset: the other moiety to be assigned similarly to the abbot and his successors the dean and his successors having common of pasture for all cattle and of turbary therein, and the abbot in the dean's moiety, and both parties their piggeries in either moiety with liberty to take of the alders there growing and the soil for building and repairing the same and the tenants of both parties free and villein and other commoners having common of pasture and turbary in either moiety as they used to have, with liberty to build and repair their piggeries as aforesaid; and moreover the tenants free and villein of the dean's manors of Modeslee and Merke may have common of pasture in the abbot's moor called Godenemor, and the dean and his successors and their tenants as aforesaid of the dean's manors of Mora and Bidesham like wise in the abbot's moor called Oxenmor: the dean to retain the parcels of moor previously enclosed with his whole manor of Modeslee, and the abbot and his successors the manor of Mere with the whole pool of Ferlyngmere, and the rhine down to Lichelak' with the moiety of Yelemor aforesaid. To make the partition the dean has chosen Sir Simon de Forneaus and Sir Hugh de Langelonde knights, Robert de Somerton and Walter de Farndon, and the abbot William le Bret cellarer of Glastonbury, John de la Weye, Robert Kene and William de Grymstede, who shall on Friday next the morrow of the Ascension commence the same and continue from day until Friday before Pentecost, and if they disagree Sir Philip de Columbariis and Hervey de Staunton or one of them on the dean's part and Sir John de Bello Campo of Somerset and John de Bryuton prior of Glastonbury or one of them on the abbot's part shall decide; and when the partition is sealed by the chapter and the abbey, touching the trespasses amends shall be made by advice of the said Sir John de Bello Campo, the prior, Sir Philip and Hervey or two of them; and to this the parties are sworn, and neither to interpose proceedings in courts ecclesiastical or secular. Witnesses: Sir Hugh de Courteneye, Sir John de Bello Campo of Somerset, Sir Philip de Columbariis, Sir John de Erlee, Sir John Wake, Sir Hugh de Langelonde, Sir Simon de Forneaus, Sir Roger le Jeu, and Sir Nicholas de Bonevyle knights. Done at the chapel of St. Thomas by the Souweye, 18 May 1 Edward III.
R.I. ff. 185–6.

Indenture between John de Godelee dean of Wells and Adam abbot of Glastonbury touching the same alleged trespasses and claims, the dean further claiming for himself and his villeins of Modeslee, Wedmor and Merk common of pasture at all times of the year for all their cattle in the abbot's moor called Godeneyemor, and the like for them and his villeins of the prebend of Wedmor and his manors of Mora and Bidesham in Oxenmor; whereby it was finally agreed that the part of the moor hitherto unenclosed has been divided by persons chosen for the purpose into moieties equal in value but not in acreage by metes and bounds, namely beginning at Consailleswalle below the close of William Consail of Modeslee southward in a straight line to a rhine below Coubrugg' directly opposite the east corner of a close called Parismede below the hamlet of Westy, and upon those bounds [*and thereupon a new dyke shall be cut and raised, upon which] shall be erected four stone crosses, two at the charge of either party; and the moiety nearer the dyke called Lichelak remains to the dean and his successors for ever, who may hold the parcels of moor previously enclosed with the whole manor of Modeslee, they and their men free of villeins of the dean's manors of Wedmor, Modeslee and Merke having common in the abbot's moor called Godenemor, and with the tenants of the prebend of Wedmor and the dean's manors of Mora and Bidesham in Oxenemor, also a crossing by boat daily from sunrise to sunset only on the wasters of the abbot's pool called Ferlyngmere, and the rhine and watercourse flowing thence to the lake called Lichelake: the other moiety nearer the watercourse called Pathenesbergheslake (except the said enclosed parcels) remains to the abbot and his successors, and they shall hold their manor of Mere with the whole pool called Ferlyngmere and the rhine or watercourse flowing to Lichelake, and the whole fishery therein with the soil thereof (saving the said rights of passage), and may repair their weirs called Hachwere, Bordenewere and Pariswere; the dean to have common of pasture and turbary in the abbot's moiety, and piggeries, and the abbot in the dean's moiety, and their tenants and other commoners in both moieties as they used to have, and liberty to water their cattle. Sealed by the dean and chapter of Wells and by the abbot and convent of Glastonbury. Witnesses: Sir Hugh de Courtenary, Sir Robert Fuizpayn, Sir John de Bello Campo of Somersete, Sir Philip, de Columbariis, Sir Richard Lovel, Sir John de Clyvedene, Sir John de Erleghe, Sir John de Wroxhale, Sir Simon de Forneaus, Sir Hugh de Langelonde, Sir Nicholas de Bonevyle. Dated Glastonbury and Wells respectively, 28 May 1 Edward III.

The copy (in R.I.) attested by Stephen Trippe clerk of the diocese of Bath and Wells notary public.
R.I. ff. 186–7: III. ff. 87d., 88; the last a bad copy with many errors of names and the various reading[*].

Indenture of agreement between William de Grauntsoun and Sibyl his wife and John de Godelee dean of Wells, for himself and his church, granting to the dean for himself and his tenants the easement of a watercourse flowing through their manor of Burnham in Somersete from Cripsenestouke to Halferthyngmere and beyond the high road to the boundary mark between their lands held in villenage by John Gorwey their neif on the east and land of Sir Hugh de Langelonde on the west, upon complaint that their men of the said manor have obstructed the same; that is to say 12 feet wide and 7 feet deep, with liberty to make and manage at their pleasure at any time, scouring, walling and making sluices at their own cost; and bond of the dean, by assent of the chapter, to do all that is necessary to prevent any damage to Sir William, Dame Sibyl, their heirs and assigns, or their tenants, with liberty to them to bridge the same. Witnesses: Sir Hugh de Clyvedon, Sir Hugh de Langelonde knights, William de Modeslee, Nicholas atte Pulle, John de Mareis, Walter le Taillour, Thomas de Snailham. Dated Burnham, Sunday before St. George 18 Edward II. (French).
R.I. f. 187d.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the dean and chapter of Wells, dated 3 June the same year, (reciting the dean's gifts to the church from fines for such lands and other property, with a proviso against alienation by the grantee,) of a grant made by John de Godelee the dean to John de Chudderlegh (Chudderlee) of one messuage, 35 acres of arable land and 12 acres of meadow lately held of him in villenage by David de Holbrok in the manor of Modeslee, to hold of the dean and his successors freely etc. during his life at a yearly rent of 11s. 3½d. payable quarterly, with warranty; witnessed by Elias de Godelee, Walter Farndon, William de Modeslee, John de Wedmor, John Billyng, Nicholas atte Pulle, William de Scheldene; and dated Modeslee, Monday after St. John ante Portam Latinam 6 Edward III.
R.I. f. 188d.: continued f. 190.

Indenture between Sir John de Bello Campo of Somerset knight lord of Hache (son and heir of Dame Cecily de Bello Campo) of the one part, and John de Godele dean of Wells and the chapter of the other, reciting a grant long ago made by Dame Cecily to the dean and Sir Hamelin his brother, dated Stoke under Hamedon Monday after St. Martin 34 Edward [1], and witnessed by Sir Gilbert Knouyle, Sir John de Meriet, Sir John de Knouyle knights, Master Thomas de Lechelade chancellor of Exeter, Sir Reginald rector of Scepton, William de Mertok, and Nicholas Fraunceys, that they or one of them might give to the dean and chapter of Wells and their successors the manor of Knappe by Northcory country Somerset, held of Dame Cecily in chief for one knight's fee, at a yearly rent to Dame Cecily her heirs or assigns of 20s. for all demands fealty excepted, and in consideration of celebrating her anniversary; also the exaction by heavy distraints after her death of homage, suit of court in his manor of Dunden and other secular services formerly issuing thereout from the dean and chapter by Sir John, alleging that the grant included no release or quitclaim: whereby Sir John quitclaims all secular services and demands of the said manor save the said rent to be paid half yearly at Dunden and fealty, and confirms the writing of Dame Cecily; in consideration where of the dean and chapter grant to the said Sir John, and to Sir John his eldest son, that they shall be specially remembered during their lives as brethren and friends in all masses for the living, prayers, benefits and almsgivings, and an obit shall be yearly celebrated for Dame Cecily and for Dame Joan late the wife of Sir John, both deceased, and for Sir John and his son after their deaths with all the usual solemnities, by the dean or most worthy canon in residence, as for a bishop, and the other heirs of Sir John shall be partakers therein, with bond in 10 marks for performance of the same. Witnesses: Sir Hugh de Coutenaye, Sir Philip de Columbers, . . . . . (Incomplete).
R.I. f. 189. The continuation is probably to be found in the fragment at the top of f. 177; above, p. 216.

Citation by John de Godelee dean of Wells and the chapter to Thomas de Retforde canon to be present at a special chapter after St. Matthew, to confer upon fresh usurpations of the rights of their church by the prior of Montacute, against whom they have already obtained a judicial decision in their favour. Dated the chapter house Wells, Monday after St. James Ap. 1332.
R.I. f. 190.

Ordinance touching the farms of churches appropriated to them, made by John de Godelee dean of Wells and the chapter, at the mandate of Simon archbishop of Canterbury during his visitation, and by consent of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, at a special chapter; namely that the farm of Congresbury be for 45l., that of the mediety of the church of Whytchurch Salisbury diocese for 33l. 6s. 8d., that of Ceddre for 36l. 13s. 4d., that of Stokgomer for 50l., that of Lydiard for 35l., the canons' grange at Wells for 80l., and that of Modifford and Lovyngton for 35l. payable quarterly to their communar to increase the common cund for canons resident, terms to begin at Midsummer next; if canons holding such farms absent themselves for three successive years the dean and chapter may transfer them to the senior canon in residence, and similarly if the cess be not paid within fifteen days; no canon to hold more than one farm, but the dean may hold that of the church of Bidesham as at present, and on a vacancy the profit without deduction shall be applied to the fabric of St. Andrew's church (whereof it is called the prebend) the repai of vestments and other necessaries, as of old accustomed; no canon may sublet to a layman, nor without the consent of the dean and chapter to another canon; farmers shall maintain houses, chancels and closes at their own costs, but extraordinary charges shall fall upon the dean and chapter. Present: the dean, Master Thomas de Retford chancellor, Master Richard de Thistelden treasurer, Master Robert Harwerd archdeacon of Tanton, Wibert de Lyttelton, Walter de Burton, Robert de Clypeston, Lawrence de la Barr', J. [*Martel], William Pencriz, Th[omas] de Haselchawe, Michael de Eston, Henry de Fulleham, and John Pymme canons, Master John de Middelton, Hugh de Alresford, Stephan Trippe being called to witness. Sealed by the chapter and the bishop. Dated the chapter house Wells, Friday after the Annunciation 1332.
R.I. f. 190. See Reg. Ralph de Salopia, Somerset Record Soc ix. 97, where the name * is found.

Proceedings upon the voidance of the deanery.

Appointment by the chapter of Wells of their brother Henry de Fullebam as steward of the deanery, upon the death of 'nostre tresbon prelat' John de Godelee, the wardship thereof upon a demise having belonged to them from time immemorial. Dated Wells, 6 February 1332. (French.)
R.I. f. 191.

Proxy of the chapter of Wells to Henry de Fulleham canon in all causes and business. Dated the chapter house Wells, non. February 1332.
R.I. f. 191.

Commission of the chapter of Wells to Sir J. de Bogleygh vicar therein to hear and determine causes or disputes pertaining to the dean's jurisdication, which belongs to them during the vacancy, and to punish offences. Dated in the chapter house Wells, non. February 1332.
R.I. f. 191.

Petition of the chapter to Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells for licence to elect a dean after the death of John de Godlee. Dated the chapter house Wells, v id. February 1332.

Note that a licence was obtained.
R.I. f. 191d.

Citation by Thomas de Retforde chancellor of Wells and the chapter to MAster Richard de Thisteldeyn canon to be present on 8 March at the hour of chapter to elect a dean after the death of John de Godlee. Dated in the chapter house Wells, 15 February 1332.
R.I. f. 191d.

Citation by Thomas de Retford chancellor of Wells and the chapter to Master Robert de Baldok canon to appear at a special chapter on Wednesday after St. Gregory P., to confer upon doubts newly arising from their statutes, and the assignment of certain vacant farms. Dated the chapter Wells, the last day of February 1332.
R.I. f. 191d.

Writ close of the king to the dean and chapter of Wells, being a second application to them for an aid for the marriage of Eleanor the king's sister to the count of Gueldres (Gerle). Tested at Pontefract, 12 February 7 Edward III.
R.I. f. 192. Close Rolls, Cal. p. 93; and for the former application, 26 June, see p. 593 of the previous volume.

Answer of the chapter of Wells to the above writ (received 5 April), making excuse that the dean is abroad on the business of the realm, that the repair of the cathedral will take at least three years and has burdened them with debt, a multiplicity of tenths in these days leaves barely sufficient funds for their support, and the church has no goods save those anciently conferred in almoin. Dated in the chapter of Wells etc.
R.I. f. 192.

Citation by Richard de Thisteldeyn treasurer of Wells, vicegerent and vicar of Richard de Bury dean of Wells in his absence, to master Thomas de Retford canon, to be present at a special chapter on the 15th day after Midsummer, to consider the demand made by Master Reymund Peregrini canon of Wells when after the death of dean John de Godlee (by whose industry they hoped the damage to their church would have been repaired, and the fabric completed) the chapter were considering how to aid the work, namely that he, by virtue of certain instruments which he produced, should immediately be granted all fruits, rents and proventions due by reason of his prebend as if he were in residence, the daily distributions to those present at the canonical hours only excepted. Dated Wells, 2 June 1333.
R.I. f. 192d.

Letter of Richard de Thisteldeyn [vicegerent] of the dean of Wells and the chapter to Master Reymund Peregrini canon, stating that they have considered his letter and that previously exhibited by him in the chapter house, but cannot send a final answer by his yeoman, as he is unable to wait two days longer, but will send one of their body (collegium) to London within the quinzaine of the Assumption to discuss the matter amicably and give the result of their full deliberation. Dated Wells, 15th day after St. John Baptist.
R.I. f. 192d.

Memorandum that 15 September 1333 Master John de Carleton, a clerk of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells specially deputed for the purpose, visited the persons of the precentor Master William de Bukland, the chancellor Master Thomas de Retford, and the treasurer Master Richard de Thistelden, in the chapel of St. Katherine where the body of bishop John de Drokenesford lies, in presence of Stephan Trippe notary public.
R.I. f. 193.

Proxy by R. de Thistelden treasurer and canon of Wells (losum tenens of the dean in his absence) and the chapter, addressed to Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, in favour of Master John de Wamberg' canon of Wells and Hugh de Alresford vicar there, to appear before the bishop or his commissaries at his visitation of the diocese, in so far as by law or custom they are bound to accept the same. Dated Wells, 11 October 1333.
R.I. f. 193.

Citation by Thomas de Retford chancellor of Wells and the chapter of Wells to Master Walter de Bourlegh canon to be present at a special chapter on 23 February to consider the election of a dean, upon the consecration of Richard de Bury as bishop of Durham. Dated in the chapter of Wells, Saturday after the Purification 1333.
R.I. f. 193.

Petition of the chapter to Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells for licence to elect a dean upon the consecretion of Richard de Bury as bishop of Durham. Dated the chapter house Wells, Wednesday the Purification 1333.
R.I. f. 193d. Reg. Ralph de Salopia, Somerset Record Soc. ix. 161.

Appeal of W. de B. proctor of the chapter of Wells to the papal see and for the protection of the court of Canterbury against any attempt by Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells to the prejudice of the immemorial right which they posses to the custody of the deanary during a vacancy, in spiritualities and temporalities.
R.I. f. 193d.

Proxy by Thomas de Retford chancellor of Wells and the chapter to Sir Roger de Westbury vicar in the said church, to take possession of the deanary now vacant, and receive the fruits, rents and proventions thereof.
R.I. f. 193d.

Licence of Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells to the chapter of Wells to elect a dean upon the consecration of Richard de Bury as bishop of Durham. Dated Woky, iii non. February 1333.
R.I. f. 193d. Reg. Ralph de Salopia, 162.

Appointment by the chapter of Wells, custodians of the deanary in spiritualities and temporalities during the vacancy, of Master John de Wamberg' canon of Wells as official, warden and administrator of the dean's spiritual jurisdication in the deanary and other prebends and places, with power of naming a commissary to hear and determine disputes and causes, visiting, examining and punishing excesses, and proceeding against usurpers or disturbers. Dated in the chapter of Wells, iii non. February 1333.
R.I. f. 194.

Declaration by Thomas de Retford chancellor of Wells and the chapter, addressed to Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, that they have unanimously elected Master Wybert de Lutleton canon of Wells as dean, requesting him to send the subdean formal directions touching his vocation and proclamation. Dated Wells in chapter, x kal. May 1334.
R.I. f. 194.

Grant by Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells to Walter de Rodney knight of 12 acres of land in Dynr' lately held of the bishop by John le Towker of Corsecombe a bastard, who died without heirs, to hold to the said Walter and the heirs of his body of the bishop and his successors at a yearly rent of one rose at Midsummer. Witnesses: Sir John de Sancto Laudo, Sir John de Palton knights, Philip de Welleslegh, Walkelin Toner, Roger de la Walle. Dated Blakeford, Thursday after St. Petronilla 8 Edward III.
R.I. f. 194. Reg. Ralph de Salopia, Somerset Record Soc lx. 169.

Note that in a suit at Somerton, iv kal. July 1280, in the eyre of Sir Saloman de Rouc[estria], Robert Fulc[onis], Richard de Boyland and William Braybef, between the abbot and convent of St. Peter Gloucester and John Treygoz kinght, touching the church of St. Andrew Burnham, it was agreed before the said justice that Sir John acknowledged the advowson thereof to be the right of the abbot, and quitclaimed to him and the convent the said advowson and patronage; and in return the said abbot and convent, at the request of Sir John, granted the church of Foye appropriated to them to the priors and monks of Ewyas to farm for ever.
R.I. f. 194d.

Extract from the roll de Banco, 6 Henry III Easter term, touching the church of Burneham; Roger de Clifford claiming the advowson upon a writ of darrein presentment against the abbot of Gloucester, who pleads that the son of Robert de Ewyas, father of plaintiff's wife, last presented, and afterwards gave the church to defendant's house by charter produced.
R.I. f. 194d.

Assize before Salamon de Roff' and others justices in eyre at Somerton county Somerset on the morrow of the Ascension 8 Edward [1] (much abbreviated), concerning a messuage and 18 acres of land in Hywys (Burnham, in margin), whereof it is pleaded that Thomas de Staunforde was seised in the time of Henry III. Hugelin (a defendant) does not appear, but Philip de Langelond tenant of 2 acres, and Nicholas Tasse tenant of 1½ acres thereof crave licence to answer for their holdings, which Thomas the parson grants; whereupon they vouch the said Hugelin to warranty. Verdict, by default, that the tenements are frank almoin belonging to the church of Burnham and not a lay fee of the said Hugolin. Judgment that the said Thomas recover his seisin against the said Hugulyn and other defendants, the said Philip and Nicholas to have their equivalent of the land of the said Hugelin, who is in mercy.
R.I. f. 194d.

Petition from the chapter of Wells to Pope Benedict [XII] on behalf of Master Wibert de Lyttelton canon of Wells master of arts and bachelor of laws, unanimously elected as dean. Dated Wells the chapter house, 16 January.
R.I. f. 195.

In the vacancy of the deanary. Live stock. Monday 1 August 8 Edward III, the homage of Wedmor and Modeslye say that John de Aschebury clerk and proctor of Richard de Bury dean of Wells received from the executors of dean John de Godlee deceased 24 oxen for 3 ploughs for the manors of Wedmor, Modeslye and Totneye, value 13s. 4d. each; for Chirchlond 2 oxen value 26s. 8d., 2 plough horses value 20s.; for Wedmor one bull value 12s., one cow value 10s., one boar value 3s. 4d., one sow value 2s. Total 19l. 14s.

Also for dilapidations of the deanary manor houses 15l. 10s., none of which was applied to improvements save in pointing (punctuatione) for his own easement.

Wedmore: dead stock left by dean Godlee's executors, and also by the said John de Ascheby (sic), one waggon bound with iron with rope of hemp, one cart bound with iron, one plough with share and furniture for 8 oxen and two iron chains of length sufficient for 8 oxen, two tables in the hall with trestles.

Modeslee: one waggon bound with iron and furniture with rope of hemp, one plough with furniture and yokes for 8 oxen with two iron chains of length sufficient for 8 oxen, one harrow of wood; in the hall, 3 tables with trestles; in the kitchen one brass pot of 8 gallons, one oven of lead fixed in the wall.

Totteneye: (blank).
R.I. f. 195d. Adam de Domerham, i. 205

Ratification by the chapter of Wells of their election of Master Wybert de Lyttelton canon as dean. Dated Wells the chapter house, xvi kal. February 1334.

Note of a similar letter addressed to the bishop.
R.I. f. 196.

Reply of the chapter of Wells to a letter from the king, received 20 January, in which he charged them not to molest Sir Walter his clerk and almoner, for that the late pope before his death sealed his application for the deanery on behalf of his said clerk; stating that, as soon as Richard de Bury had full estate in his bishopric of Durham, they, according to the custom of their church, made their election of a fit person; wherefore if the king's said clerk have better right than their dean elect, he shall not be molested. (French).
R.I. f. 196.

Proxy by the chapter of Wells (in the vacancy of the deanery) and by Roger de Mortuo mari archdeacon of Wells, Thomas de Retford chancellor, Richard de Thistelden treasurer, John de Bruton, Lawrence de la Barr', John de Wamberg', Michael de Eston, John Martel, Robert de Baldok, William de Pencriz, Henry de Fulleham, John Pynme, Richard de Rodeney and Hamelin de Godelee canons, to Master Nicholas de Bathonia, Robert de Ros and Robert de Scepton clerks, to appeal against any grievances or sentences whatsoever. Dated in the chapter of Wells, v kal. July 1335.
R.I. f. 196.

Appeal by the proctor of the chapter of Wells and of the canons above named, addressed to Master Walter de Hulle clerk of the diocese of Bath and Wells notary public, stating that though the church of Wells was involved in no sentence of interdict, nor the chapter of suspension, nor any canons of greater excommunication, and though in consequence of reasonable fears public appeal had been made on their behalf against any attempt to their prejudice, nevertheless hearing that William abbot of Montoliou (de Monte Oliuo) in the diocese of Carcassonne (alleging that Pope John XXII in his life time appointed Isnard Gasci a canon of Wells of the prebend called Wyvelescombe, in place of Master Gerard de Subbiria deceased at the papal see, and that James de Mutina the pope's chaplain and hearer of causes of the sacred palace adjudged the same to the said Isnard by definitive sentence, and that afterwards the pope deputed the said William with the bishop of Cavailhon (Cauallicensis) and the archdeacon of London, with the clause 'two or one of you,' to execute such pretended sentence; and falsely imagining that the chapter and the several canons would not admit the said Isnard to his canonry and prebend in accordance with monitions said to have been made by John de Brenkworth his pretended commissary, whereas they had obeyed and were ready effectually to obey the same, and the said Insnard (sic) had been admitted to corporal possession;) notwithstanding and contrary to their appeal (of which he was probably aware) without summons to the chapter or canons or any of them but in their absence (not of contumacy), in process of execution of such pretended grace and sentence, pronounced that all the canons had incurred sentence of excommunication, the chapter of suspension, and the church of interdict passed by the said William against gainsayers and rebels, neglecting all cognisance of the cause and the requisite order of justice: appeal therefore in writing to the papal see and for the protection of the court of Canterbury, with an oath upon the gospels that they were not aware of the grievances above mentioned or any of them until the ninth hour 24 June 1335, and that the said proctor has diligently sought but not found the said Isnard and William or any special proctor of theirs in order to notify this appeal to them, nor is he aware of their domicile, wherefore the appeal is made in the church of Wells whereof the said Isnard pretends to be a canon.
R.I. ff. 196d See Calendar of Papal Letters 1333, p. 374.

Petition from the chapter of Wells to R. bishop of Bath and Wells for licence to elect a dean upon the death of Master Wibert de Littelton canon and dean elect. Dated in the chapter of Wells, 20 August 1335.
R.I. f. 197d.

Petition from the chapter of Wells to John bishop of Exeter, stating that the bishop with the consent of the king formerly appropriated the parish churches of Wynesham, Cerde, Combe and Welington in the diocese of Bath and Wells and other spiritualities to the provostship of Wells, and made a statute that of the revenues fifteen prebends each of 8 marks annual value should be allotted to fifteen canons to pray for the bishop, the king and queen and their children, and for their souls and others after death, to be collated by the bishop and his successors, and fifteen vicarages of 2 marks each to fifteen vicars to celebrate masses etc. for the same, and services of the blessed Virgin and of the dead daily for ever, the provost paying such stipends, and to the chaplains and clerks for such daily services 20l. a year, and retaining for himself any surplus; that the canons, vicars and officers of the church and their predecessors have been in possession of such moneys time out of mind; that nevertheless the prior of Tanton of the order of St. Augustine, pretending himself the subdelegate of the said bishop of Exeter (the judge delegated by the papal see to sequestrate the provostship in accordance with the Clementine constitution 'Ad compescendas'), has presumed to seize and detain for more than one year all the revenues of the said churches so annexed to the provostship by colour of an alleged sequestration, leaving the said charges unsupported, contrary to the intent of the said bishop and the said constitution, notwithstanding letters previously sent by the said bishop, whereby many parsons of the church of Wells are reduced to beggary, and the statutes devised for increase of divine service trampled under foot; and praying him to provide a remedy; also commending to him Sir William de Pencriz their brother, who has sufficient instructions upon the matter.
R.I. f. 197d.

Proxy by the dean and chapter of Wells to Master John de Offorde canon of Wells and Master Nicholas de Bathonia in all causes. Dated Wells in chapter, viii kal. October 1336.
R.I. f. 198.

Letter from the chapter of Wells to Master John de Offorde canon of Wells and dean of the arches London, thanking him for past services, and praying his assistance in the business begun before Master Bernard Cystre the papal nuncio, that he may desist from exacting the fruits of the deanery.
R.I. f. 198d

Memorandum that when, by the will of Robert bishop of Bath and Wells, Thomas dean of Wells and the chapter had summoned all the canons to a special chapter on Wednesday after Quasimodo Sunday 1286, on that day, in view of the urgency of the new building and the maintenance and repair of the ancient church, it was decreed unanimously that every canon should pay yearly for five years at Christmas and Midsummer the tenth of his prebend to those deputed for the purpose towards the fabric and repairs, beginning at Christmas next, with a penalty of half a mark towards the fabric for every default.
R.I. f. 198d.

Inspeximus and confirmation by the dean and chapter of Wells, dated iii kal. May 1337, of the appropriation made by Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, with the consent of both chapters, to the abbot and convent of Keynesham of the parish church of Westharpetre (the patronage whereof has been with the king's consent conferred upon them by Sir Walter de Rodeneye knight) in respect of losses suffered by the devastation of their lands and burning of their churches in Ireland in the war, and the flooding of lands in Ireland and Wales, they presenting the vicar upon the death or cession of teh now rector, saving the rights of the bishop and the churches of Bath and Wells, also a yearly pension of 6s. 8d. to the fabric of Wells, and another of 2s. to the archdeacon of Bath in recompense of fruits in times of vacancy, and reserving power to appoint a vicarage, the vicar to have the rectory houses with dovecote, curtilage and garden, (the granges, bovaries, and stables excepted, and a piece of ground near bounded by a line from the great gate by the wall to the end of the rectory close, including therein the gate with the chamber over,) the houses usually appointed for a parochial chaplain, and a share in all tithes, obventions and revenues, (the land, meadow, glebe, wood, common in the wood of Sir John de Gurney and elsewhere, pasture for their cattle, the tenants with their rents, heriots and services, the tithes of corn and hay, and the yearly pension due from the church of Portesheved excepted and reserved,) 4 quarters of clean wheat, 4 quarters of coarse oats, and 4 quarters of barley, 3 loads of wheat straw, 3 of oat straw and 3 of hay yearly; the vicar shall appoint a clerk to the office of holy water, and be charged with finding bread, wine, incense, processional candles and lights, binding books, washing and repairing vestments: dated Evercrich, iv kal. December 1336.
R.I. f. 199. Reg. Ralph de Salopia, Somerset Record Soc. ix. 298.

Receipt from the dean and chapter of Wells to the abbot and convent of Keynesham for 6s. 8d., for the yearly pension imposed upon them by the bishop at the appropriation of the church of Westharpetre and by their bond, for the first year of actual possession, discharging them up to that date.
R.I. f. 199d.

Mandate of Walter de London dean of Wells to John Everard vicar and escheator thereof to admonish all canons not keeping their residence (names on a schedule attached) to pay one moiety of the sum at which their prebends are assessed within a month of Easter, and so from year to year, or otherwise to compel them to do so by sentence of excommunication and sequestration; reciting the summoning of a special chapter by dean John de Godelee, in accordance with his powers and with immemorial custom, at the bishop's request, to confer upon the repair of the fabric and the defence of the liberties of the church, at which after consideration of the oath taken by the canons at their admission, of the infringement of their liberties and the oppressions of their church, of the sum of 1000l. and upwards spent by the canons resident, and the debt of 200l. incurred in the defence of their liberties and the repairs aforesaid, of the revenues taken by nonresident canons (holding for the most part the fatter prebends) and their failure to contribute for the purposes before mentioned, it was ordained with the bishop's approval that 200l. should be levied of the revenues of the canons non-resident in aid of these charges, namely one moiety of the sum at which each prebend was assessed, to be paid yearly within a month of Easter, until the whole sum should be completed. Dated Wells, the last day of March 1337.
R.I. f. 200.

Grant indented by Walter de London dean of Wells and the chapter to Master Robert de Stonore canon, of that tenement at the Mounterye situate on the south side of the tenement of William Pencrich canon and on the north side of that wherein Sir Thomas de Lechelade and Richard le Gray vicars dwell, to hold so long as he be a canon and prebendary, at the accustomed rent. Dated Wells the chapter house, 10 April 1337.
R.I. f. 200d.

Grant indented by Walter de London dean of Wells and the chapter to John de Sobbury canon of the tenement at the Torreyete wherein Richard de Rodeneye canon formerly dwelt, to hold so long as he be a canon and prebendary, at the acustomed rent. Dated Wells, 8 April 1337.
R.I. f. 200d.

Memorandum that 20 November 1337 Ralph bishop of Bath and Wells, in the chapel of his palace at Wells, collated Master John de Middelton rector of Shepton Beauchamp to the chancellorship of Wells void by the death of Master Thomas de Retford; and he was sworn to read or find a reader within one month, also to reside and be obedient. Witnesses: John de Carleton, Roger Oke clerks, Stephen Trippe notary public.
R.I. f. 200d.