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EDITED FOR THE WORCESTERSHIRE HISTORICAL SOCIETY BY J. W. WILLIS BUND.

PART III.

From the Translation of Bishop Walter Reynolds to Canterbury, October, 1313, to the Translation of Bishop Wittelsey from Rochester to Worcester, July, 1364.

Printed for the Worcestershire Historical Society,
BY JAMES PARKER AND CO., OXFORD.
1895.

INTRODUCTION.

THIS third part of the Sede Vacante Register covers some fifty years, from 1313 to 1368. The two previous parts had each dealt with a single vacancy, the first that from the death of Giffard to the enthronization of Ginsborough, the second from the death of Ginsborough to the confirmation of Reynolds, the two together only comprising about twelve years. In the period treated of in this part there were no less than 11 bishops of Worcester.

1. Walter Reynolds [1], translated to Canterbury, 1 Oct. 1313.
2. Walter de Maydeston, enthroned April, 1314, died abroad, March, 1317.
3. Thomas Cobham, consecrated June, 1317, died 27 Aug. 1327.
4. Adam Orleton, enthroned June, 1328, translated to Winchester, Dec. 1333.
5. Simon de Montacute, consecrated May, 1334, translated to Ely, March, 1337.
6. Thomas Hemenhale, enthroned Aug. 1337, died Dec. 1338.
7. Wolstan de Bransford, enthroned April, 1339, died August, 1349.
8. John de Thoresby, Jan. 1349, translated to York, 1352.
9. Reginald Bryan, translated from St. David's, April, 1353, died Dec. 1361.
10. John Barnet, enthroned July, 1362. Nov. 1363 translated to Bath and Wells.
11. William Wittelsey, enthroned April, 1364, translated to Canterbury, Oct. 1368.

The vacancy on Reynolds' translation, the six months from October, 1313, to April, 1314, take up some 40 pages of this part [2].

The vacancy on Maydeston's death deals with 14 pages [3]. During the vacancy on Cobham's death there is but one entry [4], a notice by the sub-Prior, the Prior having been elected Bishop by the Worcester

[1] The names in italic are those when the vacancy is recorded in this register.
[2] 137-177.
[3] 177-191.
[4] p. 190.

vi INTRODUCTION.

Monks, that the sub-Prior intended to visit the churches in the Deanery of Pershore. The Register then passes over without any mention Adam Orleton, and the vacancy between his translation and the election of Simon Montacute, the vacancy between Montacute's translation and the election of Heminghale, that from the death of Heminghale to the election of Wolstan de Bransford, and that on his death to the election of John de Thoresby, the next entry on the Register [1] being that caused by the translation of Thoresby to York in 1352 [2]. That is, there is a gap for the 25 years from 1327 to 1352.

The vacancy between Thoresby and Bryan is fully dealt with [3], but that on the death of Bryan is not noticed, the next entry after Bryan's election being that on the translation of his successor Barnet to Bath and Wells and the election of Wittelsey [3]. It is not easy to account for these omissions, as there is nothing in the Register to shew that there is any gap in the entries; they run on precisely as if Maydeston had been succeeded by Thoresby and Bryan by Wittelsey.

The account of the six months from Oct. 1313 to April, 1314, is mainly taken up with two subjects, the old question of visitation and the record of an ordination held by the Irish Bishop of Annaghdown. This is very fully dealt with, and gives some very interesting details as to the qualifications for orders in the 14th century. Dividing the matter in this part into the same three divisions as in the previous parts,

I. Matters relating to filling up the vacancy of the See and the election of a new Bishop;
II. Matters relating to the general administration of the Diocese by the Prior and the Monastery during the vacancy;
III. Miscellaneous matters;

it will be found that a great number of important entries are given under each head.

I. As to the first division, filling up the vacancy of the See. On previous occasions the See of Canterbury was full, and the Archbishop therefore gave the Prior his commission to act as his officer during the vacancy of the See, the temporalities belonging to the Archbishop [5]. But as the See of Canterbury was now vacant, the Prior

[1] p. 191.
[2] p. 191-202.
[3] p. 202-216.
[4] p. 216-222.
[5] See p. 4.

INTRODUCTION. vii

of Christ Church, Canterbury, was entitled to the temporalities during the vacancy; so the Prior of Worcester wrote to the Prior of Christ Church, asking him for a commission to execute Episcopal Jurisdiction during the vacancy of the See [1], and this the Prior granted [2]. It is not the least of the anomalies of the then state of things that the Canterbury Prior whose only right to exercise Episcopal Jurisdiction was because that See was vacant, could yet grant the right to exercise Episcopal Jurisdiction not only while the See of Canterbury was vacant, that is while his power lasted, but until the See of Worcester was filled, which might be long after he had any right to exercise any Episcopal Jurisdiction. Having got the right to exercise jurisdiction, or even before he got it, as the Prior's letter was dated the 8th of the Kalends of December, 1313, and the Commission did not issue until the Feast of St. Katherine, 25 Nov., on the 5th of the Kalends of December, 1313 [3], the Prior ordered the Archdeacons of Worcester and Gloucester to cite all the clergy and those who had causes in the Consistory Court, that is all over whom the Prior had any jurisdiction, real or imaginary, to appear before him in the Cathedral at Worcester on the Feast of St. Nicholas, Dec. 6, to make canonical obedience and to hear canonical mandates. The Prior then called on the late official of Worcester, Benedict de Paston, to give up the rolls and registers of the Consistory Court and the keys of the Chest. Paston denied he had them, but alleged they were in the custody of the Clerk of the Court. The Prior, however, refused to be put off, and ordered Paston, under pain of canonical censure, to hand them over before the 30th November, the Feast of St. Andrew. The Prior then appointed Richard de Alcester to hear causes in the Consistory Court [4]. There does not appear on the Register any application for a conge delire on the translation of Reynolds to Canterbury in fact there is during the vacancy no allusion to the election of a Bishop. Probably this arises from the circumstance that the Worcester monks had but little to do with it. On the death of the Archbishop of Canterbury (Winchelsey), the monks of Canterbury elected Thomas de Cobham, Canon of York, to the vacant Archbishopric. Edward II. wanted this for Reynolds, and sent agents to the Pope to induce Clement V. to reject the monks' nominee and give the See to Reynolds. Among Edward's agents was one

[1] p. 137.
[2] Ibid.
[3] p. 138.
[4] p. 139.

viii INTRODUCTION.

Walter de Maydestone. The Pope to oblige Edward set aside the monks' election, the ground being that he had in the time of Robert Winchelsey, the previous Archbishop being desirous to provide for Canterbury, reserved the appointment to himself. This was in pursuance of a right the Popes were then very fond of exercising, of reserving, or alleging they had reserved, to themselves the appointment to some ecclesiastical office on the next vacancy, and as the Papal reservation took precedence of an election by any one else, the Pope was always able to put in his own creatures. By virtue of this reservation, the Pope set aside Cobham's election to Canterbury and translated him to Worcester [1]. But to Worcester Cobham refused to go. The Pope had therefore to find some one else, so appointed Maydestone and consecrated him at once. One vice the new Bishop seems to have possessed, that of poverty, and in consequence of it he appears to have been very unpopular with the Worcester monks. He had to borrow the money to pay for his appointment as Bishop. He authorised two agents, one of whom, Adam de Murymuth, had to borrow for him 500 golden florins, and pay the same into the Apostolic Chamber. Having nothing to repay him with, the Bishop granted Murymuth a pension of five marks a year until he was able to give him a sufficient benefice, a form of pious provision at the expense of the Church that has not been unknown at Worcester even in the present century. The Bishop also paid his lawyers by the grant of yearly pensions. His misfortunes did not stop here; whatever may have then been the custom in lay matters, the Archbishop claimed tenant right; and he made the new Bishop pay £221 6s. 6d. for the stock on the Episcopal Manors. For this Maydestone had to give a Bond. He had also to borrow £650 to satisfy his creditors. A Bishop who was so impecunious could not be popular. Moreover Maydestone was forced on the Worcester monks by the Pope, and they had no voice in the matter of his election. He was some time Bishop before he was enthroned, and that is probably the reason there is no mention of it, the entries in the Sede Vacante having ceased and the Bishops' register having begun.

He died abroad [2] on the 28th March, 1317, and his death was not known to the Prior until the 7th April, 1317. The Prior at once applied on the ijth day of April for a conge d'elire,

[1] p. 144.
[2] p. 180.

INTRODUCTION. ix

and on the igth it was issued to him [1]. Accordingly he directed the Precentor, Richard de Bromwich, to call a general meeting of the monks for Whit Monday, 1317, to elect a Bishop. Edward II., before he issued the conge d'elire, had written to the Pope setting forth the virtues of Thomas Cobham, who had previously declined Worcester, and asking for the Bishopric for him. The Pope did not wait the result of the election, but consecrated Cobham Bishop on the nth of the calends of June, 1317.

On his death in 1327, Edward gave the monks a conge d'elire, and they elected their Prior Wulstan de Bransford; the King agreed to his election. Bransford did homage, the temporalities were delivered to him, and the Archbishop confirmed the election. The King then heard that the Pope had reserved Worcester, and he thereupon wrote to him from Nottingham on the 6th September, 1327, stating that he had given the Church of Worcester, the See of which was vacant from the death of the late Bishop Thomas, leave to elect a new Bishop; that they had agreed to elect the Prior Wulstan de Bransford, that he had approved of this, and the Archbishop of Canterbury had confirmed it [2]. But that he had heard from certain persons, not without great concern, that the said Election so legally and peacefully held was about to be set aside under pretext of a Reservation which the Holy See is said to have made, by which report some of the peers and others were greatly disturbed. The King then sets out the Prior's virtues, and what a misfortune it would be to have an indiscreet bishop. He prays the Pope to release the Reservation, and to allow the elected of the monks to take possession of the honours to which he was canonically chosen, nor to suffer his goodness to be doubted on account of the affair, and concludes by saying that he hoped the Pope will agree to this, for he feels sure the Church under this Bishop's rule will flourish to the glory of the See and of the kingdom.

The King also wrote to eleven of the Cardinals very nearly in the same terms, setting out the dangers of a bad Bishop, his knowledge how good the present one was, how great an advantage his election would be, and how much he would be obliged if it was maintained. Although Archbishop Reynolds had confirmed the election, so great was the fear of the Pope, that he refused to consecrate Bransford. On the death of Reynolds the King ordered

[1] p. 179. Rymer, iv. 308.

x INTRODUCTION.

the Prior and monks of Canterbury to summon the suffragans of the Province to do it. They were, however, afraid to do so, and with reason, for the rumour was then current that the Pope had reserved the Bishopric, and had appointed to it his own nominee, who turned out to be that celebrated Bishop of Hereford, Adam de Orleton. A native of the Welsh Border, born under the influence and a tool of the Mortimers, Edward II. had used his utmost efforts to prevent him being made a Bishop. When these efforts failed, and Orleton in 1316 was confirmed in the See of Hereford, Edward found how dangerous a man this Bishop was. The King accused him in Parliament, in 1324, of conspiring against him; and although a committee of laymen reported on examining into the charges against the Bishop that they were well founded, yet Orleton was strong enough to refuse to appear before the King's Court. Edward then sequestered the temporalities of Hereford. On Queen Isabella's return to England in 1326, Orleton joined her, and preached inflammatory sermons against the King before the University of Oxford. He took part in the capture of Edward II. at Neath, in the execution of the elder Despenser at Hereford, and in extorting the abdication from the King at Kenilworth. He is also said to have urged on the murder of Edward, for this conduct he had his reward. Edward was murdered September 21st, 1327. On September 28th the Bull was issued giving the See of Worcester to his murderer. The new Bishop of Worcester, before he was enthroned, was made Lord Treasurer of England. He, however, only retained the office for a few months. In 1333 Orleton, on the See of Winchester falling vacant, persuaded the Pope to translate him to it as he had been translated to Worcester. Edward III. is said to have been made of sterner stuff than Edward II. He took proceedings in the Pope's Court against Orleton as being a man infamous for many crimes, and unworthy of promotion. But even Edward III. had to give way, and Orleton had the honour of being one of the few English Bishops who were twice translated.

Edward had intended Winchester for Simon de Montacute, but the Pope when giving that See to Orleton gave Montacute Worcester. The Pope also provided that Montacute might be consecrated by any Bishop he pleased, and need not take the oath of obedience to the Archbishop of Canterbury but to the Pope direct. He was therefore consecrated at Tame by the Bishops of Lincoln, Bath,

INTRODUCTION. xi

and Salisbury, 8 Ides of May, 1334. In 1337 Pope Benedict XII. translated Montacute to Ely, and sent Thomas Hemenhale to Worcester; he had been elected to Norwich, and was at Avignon seeking to have his election to Norwich confirmed, when the Pope transferred him to Worcester. He died the next year, 1314. At last the Worcester monks got their own choice, the Prior Bransford, as Bishop, and not a mere Papal nominee. On Bransford's death the monks again elected their Prior, John de Evesham, but the Pope put in another nominee, Thoresby, Bishop of St. David's, and afterwards translated him to York, filling up Worcester by translating to it another Bishop of St. David's, Reginald Bryan. The Pope translated Bryan to Ely, and although the Worcester monks got a conge d'elire to elect a successor, they found it superseded by the Pope having appointed John Barnet to Worcester, and the conge d'elire was thereupon revoked [1]. Barnet was translated by the Pope to Bath and Wells, and the Pope translated William Wittelsey from Rochester to Worcester.

Nothing can be more instructive than the history of these elections of Bishops of Worcester. In theory the monks of Worcester had the free right to elect who they pleased; then as now the King granted his conge d'elire to the electing body. The only difference being that then he reserved the right to approve or disapprove of the elected, now he recommends the man to be selected; but although nominally free, the Worcester monks and the King had both to submit to a foreign authority, who thought nothing of setting aside the person duly elected and giving the Bishopric to his own nominee. In the first half of the 14th century in only two instances, those of Reynolds and Bransford, were the monks really allowed to choose their own man, and in one of these cases, that of Reynolds, the Bishop was the King's not the monks' choice. So that out of nine Bishops who held the See during the fifty years from 1300 to 1350 only one was freely elected, several were forced into the See against the wish of the King, and all but one against the wish of the monks. No better or more forcible proof could be given that in spite of the protest of Edward II. in his letter to the Prior of Worcester on the rights of English Kings to control the election of English Bishops [2], the real control lay outside the realm. The Pope in fact appointed English Bishops when and as he thought fit, and that

[1] p. 203.
[2] p. 104. xii INTRODUCTION.

wholly irrespective of the likes or dislikes of any one. It may be that this setting aside the person properly elected and filling up the See by the nominee of the Pope will account for the imperfect state of this Register during these years, the monks not caring to put on record that their rights were habitually evaded.

II. Of matters connected with the administration of the Diocese the most important is that relating to the question of ordination. The history of the administration of this rite in the mediaeval Church is most interesting, but is a matter that has received very little notice. Orders were divided into two great classes, the superior orders, Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, and the minor orders, Sub-Deacons, Acolytes, Exorcists, Lectors, and Doorkeepers, all of them coming under the general head of Clergy.

Certain fixed rules applied to all these classes; for instance, the rule as to age, below which a candidate was not admitted to orders; a candidate had usually to pass through the minor orders before he was admitted to the superior. But in all the orders there was one outward and visible sign, or mark that was affixed when orders were confirmed, the tonsure. No subject caused greater controversy; it was one of the great points of dispute between the Latin and the Celtic Churches, the Celt adhering to the ancient form of heathen tonsure that they had inherited from the heathen priests, which was the sign of slavery or tribal ownership, the Latin requiring the use of their own form, which was symbolical of Christianity, the shorn crown being supposed to represent the Crown of Thorns. The history of tonsure is a very curious and interesting piece of ecclesiastical history, but this is not the place to discuss it. All that is here necessary is to point out that the ceremonial of the tonsure was a distinct feature in the ordination service.

The proper times for receiving tonsure were the Saturdays in the Quatuor Tempora, that is, the Ember weeks, the Saturday before Passion Sunday, and Holy Saturday.

The whole of the ceremonies connected with giving the tonsure are set forth at length in the Pontificate Romanum. At the first tonsure the Bishop with a pair of scissors clipped the hair of the candidate in five places, on the front and back of the head, above each ear, and on the middle of the top of the head. (In fronte, in oaipitio, et ad utramque aurem; deinde

INTRODUCTION. xiii

in medio capitis.) The tonsure was performed immediately after the Introit. No one could receive it who had not been confirmed or who could not read or write (hence benefit of clergy), or was ignorant of the rudiments of the faith. The persons who had received the tonsure were called "coronati". As the tonsure was at first merely a mark of a Christian, it does not appear that the rules as to the persons who might receive it were as strict as the rules as to who might receive orders. Certain persons, such as madmen, idiots, slaves, criminals, could not. Following the rule laid down in the Mosaic code [1], neither persons deformed, mutilated, or defectively made could be ordained. Persons born out of lawful wedlock could not receive orders without a dispensation if minor orders that of the Bishop, if superior orders that of the Pope or his legate. An instance of this is given in this Register in the case of Henry de Warwyk [2], who petitions the Bishop of Sabina, the Papal Nuncio, to grant him a dispensation for orders, and to hold a benefice, although illegitimate. The Bishop wrote to the Prior, the Prior wrote to the official of the Archdeacon, who issued 11 interrogatories on the subject. On receiving the answers to them the official certified the Prior, who reported to the Bishop, and the dispensation issued.

The ordination held by the Irish Bishop of Annaghdown in Lent, 1313, seems at first sight remarkable for the number of persons ordained, no less than 371; the minor orders amounting to 131, and the superior to 240. Large as this number appears now, it was by no means exceptionally so at that time, as will be seen from the following table of persons ordained at ordinations in the Worcester diocese about that date.

xiv INTRODUCTION.

it would appear that the minimum title recognised as a sufficient sum was six marks. The titles are of several distinct kinds, (1) By Patrimony. This appears to be that the candidate had of his own, either by descent or otherwise, sufficient means to maintain himself. So that no question might hereafter arise, there seems to have been an admission extracted from the candidate that his patrimony was enough to keep him, or rather that he was content to rely upon it for his support, either for his whole life when the entry ran "de quo reputat se contentum" his admission of the sufficiency being all that was required, or for a definite term, one, two, or three years, stet per biennium. To avoid any claims being made against the Bishop, the officials were not content to take the candidate's word, but he was sworn to the truth of his statement, or else it was certified by some responsible person, as in the case of the first on this list, Thomas of Kyderminster, whose patrimony was certified in writing by the Archdeacon of Shrewsbury. In some cases the value of the patrimony is inserted. (2) Another title of the same kind was an annual rent or an annual provision; this was also mentioned to ensure that the person ordained had sufficient means. 50s. seems to have been accepted as a sufficient annual sum to keep the man. (3) If any person or body presented the candidate for orders, as for instance a religious House, they had to support him (it must be borne in mind that it was illegal for a person in orders to trade), so those who presented him became legally liable to maintain him; such an entry then runs, On the presentation of the house of e.g. at the instance of the Prior of the hospital of St. John of Jerusalem. (4) Letters dimissory. The Bishop who ordained was then only the hand by which the person received orders, the whole liability to support, and other incidents, belonging to the Bishop who signed the letters. (5) Some definite benefice such as the rectory or vicarage of some parish or some other ecclesiastical preferment. Here the fact of the candidate having the preferment was sufficient to release the Bishop from all liability. (6) In some cases the title is not disclosed, it is merely stated to be "a sufficient title", and usually it is added that the candidate admits he is content with it. It will be seen what care is taken to prevent the Bishop incurring any liability. Members of religious orders were ordained without any further title, as those houses to which they belonged were bound to support them. At this ordination three

INTRODUCTION. xv

Benedictines, a Cistercian, three Canons and two Friars were ordained.

There are one or two curious entries at the ordination. Under the Deacons Henry Ketelbern was ordained to the title of patrimony, the value of which appeared from his letter of orders: was this mere laziness or an intentional concealment ? William le Marchel is a difficult case to understand. He was ordained Deacon; to the title of his patrimony there follows, "sed non apparet de ulterioribus ordinibus". Whether the meaning is that the value of his patrimony was enough for a Deacon but it did not warrant his receiving any higher order, or what is the meaning is not easy to say. It can hardly be that a man's poverty was an absolute bar to his attaining higher rank in the Church than that of Deacon. John, son of John le Barton, was ordained on no title but by reason of exhibiting his letters of orders, which he promised to do afterwards. John de la Flagge was ordained on letters from the Roman Court, which would in reality be the same as letters dimissory. In the case of one candidate for Priest's orders, the last on the list, Adam Zernon, no title of any kind is given, and no title seems to have been required from the Acolytes.

The lists deserve careful study, as they bring out various matters connected with the mediaeval clergy that it would be difficult to learn in another way. Thus no one reading this list can fail to be struck with the fact that the Clergy must have been mainly drawn from the class of the smaller gentry, and the small freeholders. The yeomen which afterwards supplied so many of the Clergy had not yet arisen, and the men who possessed lands of the value of 40s. or more a year were men of the class from which the leaders of the soldiers were drawn. Tenants of the great lords cultivating their own land, yielding military service, these persons must have formed the bulk of the men who, according to this list, took orders. It would be interesting to see if in other dioceses the Clergy were drawn from the same class of persons. In the Register of Durham published in the Rolls series [1], this would seem to be the case in that Diocese also, but the Northern Clergy appear, if the value of their patrimony is to be taken as a guide, to have been poorer than those of Worcester. In Durham it is true there is an entry of the ordination of two noblemen, Peter de Mauley and John de Menylle, but their ordination is made the subject of a special entry, so it would

[1] Registrum Palatinum Dunelmense. Rolls Series, Vol. III.

xvi INTRODUCTION.

seem it was a matter of rare and special occurrence. The requisite value of a title in Durham seems to have been five marks, while in Worcester 30s. appears to have been the lowest and 40s. is more usual. If reliance is to be placed on a case in the Year Book of the 40th Edward III., as giving an idea of the general value of livings, 6 marks was enough for a person to live on. There the value of the benefice was said to be 6 marks. This may have been one of very small value, and it is difficult to reason from a single instance, but if there were benefices of 6 marks, then the sum required both in Worcester and even in Durham would be sufficient to support the man. On the other hand, it appears from the Durham register that one Roger de Northlegh had a pension of 5 marks until the Bishop provided him with a sufficient benefice, so that it would rather seem that 5 marks was starvation pay, the minimum that was considered enough. In the Durham register there is another case of a man, Henry de Luceby, who had an annual pension of five marks [1], until provided with an ecclesiastical benefice he would be willing to accept. This rather leads to the inference that some benefices were below five marks, and that it was possible a pension of that sum was better than a small living. The care that was taken by the Bishop in seeing the Clergy had a competent maintenance was in consequence of a decree of the Lateran Council in 1179, which provides that "Episcopus
" si aliquem sinecerto titulo de quo necessaria vitapercipiat in Diaconum
" vel Presbyterum ordinaverit tamdiu necessaria ei subministret donee
" in aliqua ei ecclesia convenientia stipendia militia clericalis assignet
" nisi forte tails qui ordinatur extiterit qui de sua vel faterna hczre-
" ditate subsidium vita possit habere". The result of this was that a Bishop would be very loth to ordain any one who came for orders unless he was satisfied the candidate had for his own patrimony de sua velfaterna hareditate a competent maintenance. Whether any Bishop did refuse on this ground does not appear on the register. Nor is it clear if a Bishop was got in to ordain as here if the liability attached to him or to the Bishop of the Diocese. Nor if in cases when the provision was to be held sufficient for a time, whether on the expiration of that time the one or two years the Bishop's liability arose. It may, however, be assumed that the reason the qualifications of the candidates are gone into so fully in the Sede Vacante Register is to preserve evidence to free the Bishop who

[1] Registrum Palatinum Dunelmense. Vol. III., p. lxxxviii.

INTRODUCTION. xvii

ordained and also the subsequent Bishop of the Diocese from all possible claim in the future if any arose.

This part of the Register contains a good deal of information as to the ecclesiastical patronage in the Diocese. The following list (1) of benefices and their Patrons, including those given in the previous parts, (2) of Patrons and their benefices, will, it is hoped, be a help to local writers.

(1) List of benefices and Patrons from 1301 up to 1368 in the Sede Vacante Register:

xviii INTRODUCTION.

INTRODUCTION. xix

xx INTRODUCTION.

INTRODUCTION. xxi

This list of the patronage of 129 benefices gives a fair idea as to how the ecclesiastical patronage of the diocese was held in the 14th century. The following list of ecclesiastic and lay patrons will also help to shew it:

xxii INTRODUCTION.

INTRODUCTION. xxiii

Of the Lay patrons the following list appears:-

xxiv INTRODUCTION.

INTRODUCTION. xxv

In addition to these there are several cases of prebends and chantries. Of prebends these are Goderynghwll in the Church of Westbury [1], and another in the same Church [2], the prebends of Mordon and Waddon in Hereford Cathedral [3], while the chantries were one which John de Southurste of Gloucester by his last will left and assigned for his soul and the souls of all faithful dead [4], a chantry at Harsecomb which the Rector resigned [5], and a perpetual chantry commonly called "Spagard" in the Church of St. "Ellen" of Worcester [6].

There is an instance of an exchange of benefices. John de Severleye, Archdeacon of Worcester, proposed to exchange with John de Harewell, Vicar of Bucstede, in the diocese of Chichester; the consent of the King and the Archbishop of Canterbury had to be obtained in this instance [7].

As to monasteries, there are one or two interesting entries. The Priory at Astley was a cell to the Benedictine Monastery of St. Taurinus of Evereux. The Abbot of St. Taurinus sent over a monk of the monastery, Robert de Loneris, to be Prior of the cell. Before he could take up the office he had to be approved and admitted by the Prior of Worcester, and formally inducted; this was done 3 December, 1313 [8]. In Feb. 1361, William de Atrio,

[1] p. 200.
[ ] p. 207.
[3] p. 217.
[4] p. 183.
[5] p. 212.
[6] p. 2l8.
[7] p. 200.
[8] p. 139.

xxvi INTRODUCTION.

a professed Benedictine monk in the monastery of St. Taurinus, was sent over as Prior for Astley. He was presented not by the Abbot, but by a monk, Brother John Bomet, empowered to do so by the Claustral Prior [1].

A difficulty occurred in appointing a Prior in the House of the Augustine Canons at Dodford, near Bromsgrove [2]. William de Aston, the Prior, died on the 9 Feb. 1361. The monks represented to the Prior of Worcester that there was at Dodford no regular way or form of election, so the Worcester Prior cut the knot by appointing as Prior one of the monks, Thomas Doul, who made the representation [3].

A vacancy also occurred in the Abbey of Alcester. The Prior of Worcester claimed that the right to elect had devolved on him; the monks at Alcester claimed the right to elect. Fortunately both selected the same man, Maurice de Munstreworth, a Benedictine monk of the Abbey of Gloucester. The Abbot of Gloucester assented to the election, both parties presented him to the King, and he became Abbot of Alcester [4].

A long account is given of the election of William Cok, Abbot of the House of St. Augustine, Bristol [5]. It was a house of Augustine Canons. The license of the Queen Phillippa, as patron, was first obtained, and the procedure seems to have been nearly, if not quite, the same as that already mentioned in other cases. The evidence of the witnesses as to the election taken before a Commission issued by the Worcester Prior is given at great length, the election was confirmed, and the Prior wrote to Queen Phillippa requesting her to approve of it [6].

There was also a vacancy at Tewkesbury, and the monks obtained a conge d'elire from Sir Edmund le Despenser, the patron, to elect. The patron wrote to the Bishop of Worcester asking his consent to the election. The Prior went into the matter, appointed a commission, who found the election had been via compromissionis, and took a good deal of evidence. The election was ultimately confirmed by the Bishop of Worcester [7].

There are a number of letters dimissory, authorising the holder to be ordained to the particular orders mentioned in the letter by

[1] p. 208.
[2] At p. 7, ante, Dodford is called, by mistake, a Benedictine House.
[3] p. 209.
[4] p. 210.
[5] p. 192.
[6] p. 198.
[7] p. 216.

INTRODUCTION. xxvii

any Catholic bishop. Among them are two rather out of the common: one those to the Abbot of the Cistercian House of Bordesley, authorising him to be consecrated Abbot in canonical form by any Bishop [1]. The other a proclamation by the Prior that the Rector of Toneworth being only in minor orders, and it being necessary he should be in full orders, came to be ordained on the proper day, but by default of the Bishop not ordaining on that day he had to retire unordained [2].

It should be noticed that during the vacancy of the See, the Prior seems to have got in any Bishop on whom he could lay his hands to confer orders, and this may account for the general term, "any Catholic Bishop", in which the letters dimissory were made out. In this register the Bishops who were employed during a vacancy of the See to ordain, and whose acts are recorded, were a Welsh Bishop (Llandaff), an Irish (Annaghdown), and a French (Sens).

On the great question of visitation, the right of the Worcester Prior during a vacancy of the See to visit the other religious houses liable to visitation in the Diocese, the Prior seems to have been fairly successful. In the vacancy after Reynolds' translation, at Gloucester he was resisted, but although there seems to have been still some grumbling and show of resistance, on the whole the monastic houses submitted to the Prior's right to visit during the vacancy of the See. In 1317 the Prior went still further. The Gloucester Abbot admitted the supremacy of the Worcester Prior during the vacancy of the See by shewing him the title of the Gloucester House to such of their church portions and pensions as were in the Diocese of Worcester [3]. And their example was followed by the Norman House of Lyra, who also produced their title-deeds to their property in the Worcester Diocese [4].

III. The miscellaneous matters are not so numerous as in the former parts, but they are of considerable interest, as shewing the condition of the clergy before the Lollard movement. It would be as unfair to judge the state of the clergy from the records of the clerical courts of those days as it would be to draw a picture of the state of society at the present day from the reports of the divorce court, but the entries in this Register bear out the evidence we have from other sources. The great thing that appears is the inadequacy of the penalty for clerical offences.

[1] p. 152.
[2] Ibid.
[3] p. 181.
[4] Ibid.

xxviii INTRODUCTION.

In 1313 [1] two laymen and two beneficed clergymen were charged with immorality. Both the laymen were discharged on purgation, that is their own denial, and a number of their neighbours swearing they did not believe they did it - an ancient form of evidence to character. The one incumbent received canonical correction, the other a dipensation. The most remarkable instance is the case of William de Staneweye, Rector of Broadwas [2]. He was charged with adultery and incest, and the case deserves notice if for nothing else than to shew in what way the ecclesiastical writers of those days used the term incest. The charge against Staneweye was that he kept certain women in his house as concubines. Margery, wife of Henry Morkoc, his parishioner and spiritual daughter, a Dairymaid, Matilda, and certain other parishioners and spiritual daughters. It will be thus seen of what the charge of incest consists. The women in a parish were regarded by the Church as the daughters of the incumbent, any immorality with them was called incest. To a casual reader a charge of incest against a priest would give ground for some very severe reflections on the clergy generally; as shewn here, it emphasises the necessity of carefully considering the matter before giving an opinion, for incest, as we understand the word, and as the Worcester scribe understood it, are very different things; yet it is quite possible on this record if unexplained to form a terrible picture of the morality of Worcestershire clergy in the 14th century. The proceedings bring out another curious point. Staneweye laid violent hands on, or in other words thrashed, another person in orders, one William Parcy. As Parcy was a clerk Staneweye incurred the penalty of being ipso facto excommunicated. It appears he did not mind this, but went on with his duties as a parish priest, among other things saying Mass. For an excommunicated person to perform divine service was a most serious ecclesiastical offence. It does not seem that the fact of assaulting Parcy was regarded as very heinous, but performing service after it was an awful depth of wickedness. Staneweye was found guilty; he appealed to the Court of Arches; they heard the case, affirmed the judgment, deprived Staneweye and made him pay costs.

R. de A. B., Chaplain [3], was charged with being guilty of incontinence with Joan de la Pole, and also with being a common

[1] p. 142.
[2] p. 169.
[3] p. 180.

INTRODUCTION. xxix

merchant, a common usurer, a common drunkard, a homicide and a common brawler. He was allowed to purge himself.

In considering these cases, another fact must be borne in mind. Although the persons committing these offences are spoken of as the Vicar or Rector of particular parishes, it by no means follows as of course that they were in orders; there are several cases in this very part where the Rector was clearly either in minor orders or a layman. For instance, John de Walcote, Rector of the Church of Herforton, was ordained sub-Deacon [1], shewing that he must have been a layman when appointed to the rectory.

There is a curious entry [2] as to John de Feckenham, citizen of Worcester. Certain evil disposed persons pretended to him they had long since taken Holy Orders, and they defamed him to the damage of his reputation, the peril of their souls, and the prejudice of the said John. Feckenham desired to free himself of the charges, so appeared before the Prior with six rectors of churches in Worcester and six laymen, who all swore that in their opinion he was innocent of the charges, and the Prior declared him not guilty. An instance of another class of offence, intrusion into the Church, that is, assuming the benefice without legal title, appears. Deerhurst belonged to the French Abbey of St. Dennis. One of the monks of that House, Philip de Cerneye, intruded himself into the Church and the spiritual goods of the same; the official of the Bishop suspended and excommunicated him. After purgation the Prior absolved him [3].

One William Eliot, a parishioner of Hawkesbury, did not get on with his wife, and seemed to be incorrigible, but afterwards appeared before the Prior, abjured his sin, received back his wife, and took an oath to treat her with marital affection. The Prior ordered him to receive as penance six beatings in the market-place when the greatest number of people were there, and six about the parish church, and the Vicar of the parish was to see the penance done [4].

Another matrimonial case was that of John Code, of Cheltenham. The Consistory Court of Gloucester found he was the husband of Juliana Stout; he refused to live with her and was sent to prison, but returning to a better course of life, he agreed to marry Juliana in church. The Prior ordered him to be let out of prison on his giving security to marry Juliana [5].

[1] p. 153.
[2] p. 143.
[3] p. 146.
[4] Ibid.
[5] p. 147.

xxx INTRODUCTION.

The Vicar of C. committed perjury as to the non residence in his vicarage. The Prior granted him a dispensation [1].

A question arose as to the legitimacy of the son of John de Feckenham. He was alleged to have been born after the agreement of his parents to marry, but before the actual marriage. It, however, on enquiry appeared he was born after the solemnization of the marriage, and so was clearly legitimate [2].

In another case of legitimacy the question arose as to whether a man could marry his deceased brother's wife, the question in Henry VIII.'s case, and it was at once held that the second marriage was bad [3]. Of course in this case there was no papal dispensation.

Two cases are mentioned of the purgation of clerks, one for theft and homicide, one for theft and robbery [4], both of whom made purgation in the Cathedral; and to further provide for the maintenance of ecclesiastical jurisdiction, the Prior granted his commission to W. de B. to take into his custody any clerks who were indicted before the King's justices of gaol delivery [5].

There are various traces of the increasing ecclesiastical jurisdiction over the estates of deceased persons such as a grant of administration of the goods of Robert de Bello campo, late an Esquire of the Prior who died intestate [6]. The Rector of the Church of Oldswineford, as executor of the will of John de Simplingford, was cited before the Prior to answer some articles as to the will [7]. The Dean of Wych was ordered to excommunicate certain sons of iniquity who detained very many goods from the executors of the will of R. de B. [8]. After hearing the accounts of the executors of the Rector of Fladbury a discharge was given them [9].

The Archbishop of Canterbury directed the Prior to cite the executors of the late Bishop Walter de Maydeston to appear before the Archbishop to prove the will, and take up the administration [10]. Three of the Bishop's Executors who it appears had dealt with his goods were summoned before the Archbishop and ordered to answer as to the administration of his goods.

The Prior appointed one Richard Zaneworth to admit to the administration of Wills in the deaneries of Cirencester, Fairford, and Stonehouse, in the Archdeaconry of Gloucester [11].

[1] p. 148.
[2] p. 149.
[3] p. 190.
[4] p. 151.
[5] Ibid.
[6] p. 147.
[7] Ibid.
[8] p. 149.
[9] Ibid.
[10] p. 187.
[11] p. 212.

INTRODUCTION. xxxi

Other matters that came within the Prior's jurisdiction were delapidations. There is an order appointing a commission to inquire into the defects in the chancel, books, ornaments, houses and manors [1] of Pinnocshire done by the predecessor of the then Vicar. The Prior procured the Bishop of Llandaff to reconcile Holy Trinity Church, Stratford, a clerk in minor orders having been assaulted in it and blood shed [2].

Some space is taken up with matters relating to the collection of a tithe granted by Pope Clement V. for the support of a crusade for "the recovery of Zyon from the filthy Saracens [3]". The Bishop of Worcester appointed the Prior and Convent his sub-collectors in the Archdeaconry of Worcester, and the Prior and Convent ordered the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester to appear at the Priory concerning the moiety payable in the first half of the year. Part of the collection came to £133 6s. 8d. for the first moiety [4].

Two rather curious items significant of the time deserve notice. A Cistercian monk from Gerondon in Leicestershire proposed, probably as following the then prevailing fashion, but "as he asserted", on account of the fruit of a better life, to set up as a hermit in the Chapel of St. Brendan, near Bristol. He, however, makes a condition which shews that he still kept an eye on the world, "sufficient maintenance being assigned to him [5]".

The other shews how funds were raised in the 14th century to repair a bridge. The Prior sent a pastoral letter to all his clergy in the Diocese of Worcester recommending to them the nuncius in the modern clerical language "deputation" would be the translation " as to the great Bridge over the Severn at Worcester," when he came to solicit alms. He directs that he was to be kindly entreated, and whatever was collected handed to him [6].

From this it would seem that even in 1313 the parish clergy did not care to allow their flock to be plundered too much for outside purposes.

It would occupy too much space to notice all the small points of County history or of general interest that are scattered about this part of the register. There is, it is true, great sameness, and much that is in this part has been already noticed in previous introductions. Still there is a good deal of fresh matter, but perhaps more of

[1] p. 150.
[2] p. 186.
[3] p. 174.
[4] p. 176.
[5] p. 147.
[6] p. 150.

xxxii INTRODUCTION.

local than general interest. Yet in either point of view it would be difficult to find any record that throws more light on Church matters in the Diocese of Worcester in the 14th century than the Sede Vacante Register.

J.W.B.
Wick Episcopi,
24 Oct. 1895.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

From the Translation of Walter Reynolds to Canterbury, ist Oct., 1313, to the Enthronement of Walter de Maydeston, April, 1314.

[Fol. 80] REGISTER of certain extrajudicial matters, during the vacancy of the See of Worcester by the translation [1] of the lord Walter Reginald, Archbishop of Canterbury, Master Walter de Maydeston succeeding him in the said See in the year of our Lord 1313.

Letter from J., Prior, and the Chapter of Worcester to the Prior of Christ Church, Canterbury, asking for a commission to execute episcopal jurisdiction during the vacancy of the See, in accordance with the composition made between Boniface, formerly Archbishop of Canterbury, and them, and appointing J. de Sancto Briavello as proctor to receive the same. Dated in the Chapter at Worcester, the 8th of the Kalends of December, 1313.

Commission from the Prior and Chapter of Christ Church, Canterbury, to the Prior of Worcester, to execute episcopal jurisdiction during the vacancy of the See of Worcester, in accordance with the composition made between them. Dated in the Chapter at Canterbury, on the Feast of St. Katherine the Virgin [25 November], 1313.

Order by the Prior of Worcester to the Archdeacon of Worcester to cite all abbots, priors, deans, provosts, preceptors, portionars, and masters of monasteries, churches, colleges, and hospitals of his Archdeaconry, and also rectors of churches, vicars, parochial chaplains, and other rural chaplains celebrating in his Archdeaconry, as well exempt as not exempt, to appear before the Prior in the Cathedral Church of Worcester on Saturday after the Feast of St. Nicholas next to come, to make canonical obedience and hear the Prior's canonical mandates. And also to cite all those presented

[1] The Bull of Translation was dated 1st Oct., 1313; received in London 21st Oct.; published in St. Paul's June 1st. See post, p. 144, for the Bull.

138 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

to churches, vicarages, portions, chantries, or other ecclesiastical benefices, or elected to any dignities, and those who have causes in the consistory court, and the executors of wills not yet proved, that they likewise appear. Dated at Worcester, the 5th of the Kalends of December, 1313.

[Fol. 50d] A like order addressed to the Archdeacon of Gloucester.

Letter from J., Prior of Worcester, to Benedict de Paston, rector of the church of Blockeleye, late official of Worcester. Whereas by the composition between the churches of Canterbury and Worcester the episcopal jurisdiction in the diocese of Worcester has devolved upon the same Prior, he orders the said Benedict to transmit to Worcester the rolls and registers of the consistories of Worcester, Gloucester, Warwick, and Bristol, and also the keys of the chests of the said consistories with the books, certificates, instruments, and muniments which remain in the said Benedict's possession, and to tell the same Prior the days and places fixed for holding courts. Dated at Worcester, the 6th of the Kalends of December, 1313.

Letter from B. de Paston, chaplain at Blockley, to the Prior of Worcester, acknowledging the receipt of the above letter. He had not heard that the See was vacant, nor had he heard anything since he left Worcester. If the rolls and other things concerning the consistory court were in his possession, he would gladly send them, but master R., clerk of the consistory court, has them in his possession, and upon an order will deliver them up. He does not know what to do with the seal. Dated at Blockley, 4th of the Kalends of December.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to Benedict de Paston, late official of Worcester. Whereas the seal of the office of the official of Worcester, the registers, rolls, and chests of the consistory courts of the diocese, the See being vacant, were accustomed to be delivered to the Prior, the See having been vacant since 21 October, and the Prior having in a friendly manner desired the same Benedict to transmit them, which he has not done, wherefore the same Prior requires the same Benedict under canonical pains that he transmit the same before Sunday after the Feast of St. Andrew.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 139

[Fol. 81] Appointment by the Prior of Worcester of Richard de Alyncestr', his clerk, to hear causes in the consistory courts and correct defaults.

Institution of Master Thomas de Bristlamton, clerk, as rector of the church of St. Martin of Estleigh, in the diocese of Worcester, at the presentation of the Prior and Convent of Great Malvern. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Kalends of December, 1313.

Induction of the same Master Thomas de Bristlamton. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Kalends of December, 1313.

Memorandum, that on the day of St. Katherine the Virgin, 1313, Walter de Kelmescote, priest, was admitted to the vicarage of St. Nicholas, of Bristol, vacant by the resignation of Master Walter, the last vicar, at the presentation of the abbot and convent of St. Augustine of Bristol, and was canonically instituted.

Admission of Robert de Loneris, monk of the monastery of St. Taurinus, the diocese of Evreux, as Prior of the Priory of Astleye, in the diocese of Worcester, on the presentation of Robert, abbot of St. Taurinus and the Convent there. Dated at Worcester, the 3rd of the Kalends of December, 1313.

Induction of the same Robert de Loneris. Dated at Worcester, the 3rd of the Kalends of December, 1313.

[Fol. 81d] Memorandum, that on the 3rd of the Nones of December, 1313, John le Kyng of Tudinton, priest, was admitted to the church of Kenemarton, vacant by the death of Gilbert de St. Clare, the last rector, at the presentation of the lady Hawisia, widow of Sir John de Ferariis, deceased, and was canonically instituted.

Memorandum, that on the 5th of the Ides of December, 1313, Master Robert de Remesbur', chaplain, was admitted to the vicarage of Longedon, vacant by the death of William de Preslond, the last minister, at the presentation of Master William Brown, rector of the church of Longedon, and was canonically instituted.

140 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Memorandum, that Master John de Rees, in minor orders, was instituted on the 3rd of the Ides of December, 1313, into the church of Chareffeld by his proctor, William de Hardewyk, and had letters of induction.

Memorandum, that on the Ides of December, 1313, Master John de Kyngeston had letters of inquisition concerning the vicarage of Marsfeld, to which he was presented by the Abbot and Convent of Theukesbur [1], and had letters of institution and induction. The 10th of the Kalends of January.

Memorandum, that Thomas de Flore, clerk and acolyte, on the I5th of the Kalends of January, 1313, had letters of inquisition for the church of Northpidele, to which he was presented by Sir Henry de Segrave, and he had letters of institution and induction. The 7th of the Kalends of January.

Memorandum, that William de Boreford, clerk, was admitted to the church of Pinnocschire, vacant, at the presentation of the King. The 8th of the Ides of January, 1313. And he had letters of institution and induction to the rector of the church of Hallinge and the vicar of Staneweye.

Memorandum, that Master Robert de Bruera, chaplain, was admitted to the vicarage of the parish church of Great Malvern, vacant, at the presentation of the Prior and Convent of Great Malvern, and swore perpetual residence.

Memorandum, that Master Robert de Hasele, chaplain, on the 2nd of the Kalends of January, 1313, had letters of inquisition to the church of Derham, to which he was presented by the King. The 15th of the Kalends of February.

Memorandum, that John Owyn, clerk, on the 2nd of the Kalends of January, 1313, had letters of inquisition to the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester for the church of Schenindon, to which he was presented by the Abbot and Convent of Theukesbur', and had letters of institution and induction. The 15th of the Kalends of February.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 141

Memorandum, that John de Walcote, clerk, on the 8th of the Ides of February, 1313, had letters of inquisition to the church of Herforton, vacant by the death of Master Stephen de Clune, to which he was presented by the Prior and Convent of Worcester, and had letters of institution and induction. The Ides of February.

Memorandum, that Master Richard de Glen, clerk, had his inquisition in the cathedral church of Worcester on the 14th of the Kalends of March, for the church of Bradewas, to which he was presented by the Prior and Convent of Worcester, and had letters of institution and induction.

Memorandum, that Master Richard de Bremesgrave, chaplain, was admitted to the vicarage of Priors Clive on the 6th of the Nones of March, 1313, to which he was presented by the Prior and Chapter of Worcester, and had letters of institution and induction, and swore perpetual residence.

Memorandum, that John Sewale of Trompeton, chaplain, was admitted to the church of Weston Brut on the 6th of the Nones of March, to which he was presented by the lady Margaret, widow of John Gifford of Bremeffeld, and had letters of institution and induction.

[Fol. 82] Concerning the making of visitations for the said time. Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the sub-Prior and Chapter of Worcester, telling them that he intended to make visitation at their house on Saturday after the Feast of St. Nicholas. Dated at Worcester, on the Vigil of St. Andrew the Apostle, 1313.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Worcester, acquainting him with his intention to hold a visitation in the church of Worcester on Saturday after the feast of the Blessed Nicholas, and commanding him to cite all rectors and vicars of churches and chapels of his deanery, as well exempt from archidiaconal jurisdiction as not exempt, and also parochial and rural chaplains and others celebrating in the same churches and chapels, and clerks and ministers of the same churches and chapels, and from every

142 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

of the same parishes six or four laymen, according to the size of the parish. Dated at Worcester, the 2nd of the Kalends of December, 1313.

A like letter directed to the other deans of the Archdeaconry of Worcester.

Appointment by the Prior of Worcester of Richard de Bromvvych, S.T.P., monk of Worcester, and Master Richard de Aline', clerk, to visit in the diocese of Worcester and correct crimes and defaults; and if necessary inquire specially about them, and also proceed against every unfit person, and remove any unworthy occupier of an ecclesiastical benefice. Dated at Worcester, the 9th of the Kalends of February, 1313.

[Fol. 82d] Certificate that Sir J. de S., accused of committing adultery with M., the wife of W. de S., his brother, appeared before the Prior and asserted that he was innocent of such crime, therefore the first purgation was allowed him, and with a sufficient number of compurgators he purged himself. Done in the Chapter of Worcester, on the vigil of the Blessed Thomas the Apostle, 1313.

Certificate that J. de S., accused of the crimes of adultery and incontinence with Joan, widow of J. de L., and of relapsing (recidivi), appeared before the Prior and asserted that he was free from the said crimes since the correction made by William de Geynesburgh, formerly bishop of Worcester.

Certificate that W. de C. appeared on Monday, the feast of St. Paul, 1313, before the Prior, accused of fornication with A. de M., and underwent correction, having taken the oath of continuing from henceforth, as was accustomed, he was dismissed.

Certificate that J. de C., rector of the church of B., accused of the crimes of adultery and incontinence with A. de B., and of relapsing, appeared before the Prior and underwent canonical correction in form of right, wheareupon he was dismissed. Dated at Worcester, the 3rd of the Ides of February, 1313.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 143

Certificate that Master John de S., rector of the church of B., came before the Prior and tearfully set forth that wheareas after he had obtained the cure of the same church, he committed the crime of incontinence or adultery with X. de B., A. de G., and F. de L., unmarried women of his parish, and publicly kept them for some time in his house as concubines, for which he is deeply penitent and humbly beseeches a healthful remedy. The Prior compassionating him grants him dispensation from the aforesaid crimes.

Certificate that certain evil disposed persons imposing upon John de Feckenham, citizen of Worcester, that they had been long since promoted to holy orders, although they had not been admitted to any such orders, evilly diffamed him as to this to good and wise persons to whom he had not before been diffamed, whereby the reputation of the same John was damaged to the grievous peril of their souls and prejudice of the same John. Wherefore the same John desiring to be purged and appearing on a certain day with six rectors of churches in Worcester and as many citizens, canonically purged himself, and the Prior solemnly pronounced him to be free from the matters imposed upon him. Dated at Worcester, the isth of the Kalends of March, 1313.

[Fol. 83] Certificate that on a certain day the Prior caused to be called before him Sir W. de B. and A. de S. for the crime of adultery, as it is said, committed between them, and enjoined salutary penance in form of law, and dismissed them so corrected.

Letter from the Prior to the Abbot of Alincester, stating that he intends to visit the same abbey and convent on Tuesday after the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul next to come. Dated at Worcester, the Ides of January, 1313.

Like letters sent to Stodley and other religious houses in the Archdeaconry of Worcester.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Prior and Convent of Stodley, desiring to reform the state of their house on account of certain matters reported to his commissaries in their visitation,

144 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

and to avoid scandal in the said house the Prior of Worcester commands, under pain of the greater excommunication, that they remove Adam, called Wyberd, from the office of cellarer and not to restore him to such office within two years, and then not without the consent of all the brothers. And whomsoever may be elected by the council of the brothers as cellarer, be bound to render an account twice in the year of the receipts and expenses of his office. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Ides of February, 1313.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Abbot and Convent of St. Peter of Gloucester, stating his intention to visit their monastery on Saturday, after the Feast of St. Lucy the Virgin next to come. Dated at Worcester, the 2nd of the Nones of December, 1313.

[Fol. 83d] Like letters sent to the Abbot and Convent of Cyrencester. Dated 4th of the Nones of December.

Acknowledgment of the receipt of the above letter by the Abbot and Convent of St. Peter of Gloucester.

Like acknowledgment by the Abbot and Convent of Cyrencester. Dated the 7th of the Ides of December, 1313.

Commission by Walter, Archbishop elect of Canterbury, to the Prior of Worcester, appointing him his official in the city and diocese of Worcester, according to the force of a composition formerly made between Boniface, late Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Prior and his Chapter, during the vacancy. Dated at Lamhuthe, the 2nd of the Ides of January, 1313. Received the 7th of the Kalends of February.

Bull from Pope Clement to Walter, formerly elected Archbishop of Canterbury. In the time of Robert, Archbishop of Canterbury, the Pope desiring to provide to the same church, when it should be vacant, made reservation thereof. Upon the death of the same Robert the Prior and Chapter of Canterbury, ignoring such reservation, elected Thomas de Cobham Canon of York, which said Thomas

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 145

humbly asked to be confirmed, but the Pope, having regard to his reservation, absolved the same Thomas from the chain by which he was bound to Worcester, and translated him to the administration of the church of Canterbury. Dated at the Priory of Gransollum, near Malansana, in the diocese of Gascony [l].

[Fol. 84] Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Abbot and Convent of the Blessed Peter of Gloucester. Whereas the Chapter of Worcester formerly warned the same Abbot and Convent of their intention to visit, and the Prior having come to their monastery to exercise the office of visitation there, the same Abbot and Convent denied him admission, excluding him by closing the gates and contemptuously refusing his monitions. Wherefore the Prior has now decreed that he intends to execute the office of visitation, either personally or by deputy, on Tuesday, after the Feast of St. Matthew. Dated at Worcester, the Nones of February, 1313. Note, that this was not certified, on account of which and resistance of the said Abbot and Convent sentence was pronounced against them, as appears in another register. And afterwards sentence aggravatory was pronounced against them on account of their obstinacy.

Order by the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Gloucester - Whereas John Toky, abbot of Gloucester, Ralph de Foresta, prior, John de Touny, sub-prior, John de Wyggemor, sacristan, John de la Forde, cellarer, John le Palmer, precentor, Richard Toky, chamberlain, William de Sudinton, hostiller, Thomas de Ablinton, kitchener, John de Monemue, almoner, and Peter de Harleston, infirmerar, obedientiaries of the same house, on account of their manifest offences in not admitting the Prior of Worcester to the act of visitation in the monastery of the Blessed Peter of Gloucester, and refusing to appear upon warnings and orders canonically made, are and for a long time have been involved in the sentence of the greater excommunication that the said Dean pronounce, or cause to be pronounced, under pain of the greater excommunication, in every church of his deanery, sentence of the greater excommunication against the same obedientiaries name by name, forbidding all his parishioners and subjects to communicate with them; that he cite

[1] This Bull is to the same effect as a similar Bull sent to Edward II., printed in Rymer, III. 439.

146 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

the same obedientiaries to appear before the same Prior or his commissary in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, on the fourth law-day, after the Feast of St. Scholastica the Virgin, to show cause why they should not be excommunicated, and that he sequester all the fruits and ecclesiastical profits of the same religious persons in his deanery, and keep the same until they obtain the benefit of absolution.

[Fol. 84d] Purgation of brother Philip de Cerneye, monk of the monastery of the Blessed Dennis in France, accused of the crime of intrusion upon the church of Derhurst [1] and the spiritual goods belonging to the same. Dated in the Chapter House at Worcester, the 6th of the Ides of January, 1313.

Absolution granted to the same Philip from the sentence of suspension and excommunication pronounced upon him by the official of the late Bishop of Worcester. Dated as above.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Vicar of H., that whereas William Eliot, a parishioner of the same vicar, who formerly appeared incorrigible, but has now abjured his sins, received back his own wife, and taken an oath to treat her from henceforth with marital affection, the same Prior has enjoined the same William, in the name of penance, six cudgellings (fastigationes) through the market-place of B., when the greatest number of people shall be there, and six cudgellings about the parish church of Haukesbur'. Which penances the said vicar is to see carried out.

Letters testimonial for N. de W., clerk of Worcester. Dated at Worcester, the 7th of the Ides of February, 1313.

Letters of suspension upon T. de B. for contumacy in not coming before the Prior at the instance of W. de J.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Wych, to obtain from the Abbot and Convent of Bordesleye the procuration due at the late visitation of the Prior at the church of Tardebigge, lately acquired by the said Abbot and Convent.

[1] Deerhurst was a cell of the Abbey of St. Denis.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 147

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to T., abbot of the monastery of the Blessed Mary of Theukesbury, that whereas Walter de Sancta Cruce, monk of Gerondon [1], of the Cistercian Order, in the diocese of Lincoln, having obtained licence from his Abbot, proposes, on account of the fruit of a better life, as he asserts, to lead a solitary life in the chapel of St. Brendun near Bristol, if the canonical sanctions permit, sufficient maintenance being assigned to him. The Prior commits the matter to the decision of the same Abbot.

[Fol. 85] Order by the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Kyderminstre to cite John, rector of the church of Old Swineford, executor of the will of John de Simplingford, to appear before the same Prior in the cathedral church of Worcester on Tuesday before the Feast of St. Valentine to answer certain articles touching the said will.

Commission from the Prior of Worcester to Sir P. de B. of the administration of the goods of Robert de Bello Campo, late an Esquyre of the same Prior, who died intestate. Dated at Worcester, the 10th of the Kalends of January.

Release of the sequestration upon the goods of Master John de Lilleford, rector of the church of Severn stok, imposed by Walter, late bishop of Worcester. Dated at Worcester, the Kalends of December.

Commission by the Prior of Worcester to Master J. de Grava, rector of the church of Colne in the diocese of Worcester, to sequester the profits of the church of Derhurst.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the bailiff of the liberty of Cheltenham. It having been intimated to the same Prior that John Code of Cheltenham, imprisoned in the prison of Cheltenham, because in the consistory of Gloucester he was adjudged as the husband of Juliana Stout, to which sentence the same John refused to comply, but now desiring to return to a better course of life

[1] Co. Leicester.

148 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

and to make satisfaction to God and the Church for his rebellion and manifest offences, and to be reconciled in form of law, and to marry the same Juliana in the face of the Church, the Prior orders that the same John be liberated from prison that he may marry the said Juliana in the face of the Church, security being taken for the performance of the promises. Dated at Worcester, the 4th of the Ides of January, 1313.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester ordering him to inquire as to the vacancy of the vicarage of the church of the Blessed Thomas of Great Malvern, Master Robert de Brueria, chaplain, who was presented to the same by the Prior and Convent of Great Malvern, complaining that the same official by pretext of the vacancy of the See refused to inquire as to the vacancy of the vicarage and upon certain articles touching the same matter.

[Fol. 85d] Order to the Dean of Pershore and to the rector of the church of Lenchrondulf, to warn William Bertram of Radeforde that within eight days he satisfy John de Staneweye, rector of the church of Fladebury, the 53s. 8d. in which he is bound to the same in a canonical matter, according to the trust entered into between them as it is said, otherwise to cite the same William to appear before the Prior or his commissary.

Declaration by J., Prior of Worcester, that Master Richard de Alincestr', clerk, was admitted to the deanery of the collegiate church of the Blessed Mary of Warwick at the presentation of Sir Guy de Bello Campo, Earl of Warwick, and was canonically instituted dean of the same church with all its rights and appurtenances saving the dignity to the bishops and archdeacons for the time being. Dated at Worcester, the 4th of the Nones of February, 1313.

Dispensation to Master Henry de C. B. (sic), vicar of the church of C., for perjury committed by occasion of his non-residence at his vicarage.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 149

Declaration of the legitimacy of Thomas de F. of W., who was not only born after the contract of marriage (de contractu matrimoniali) between John de Feckenham and Christina, daughter of John de Astley of Worcester, his father and mother, but after the solemnization of the same marriage contract (de solemnizatione ejusdem contractus matrimonialis) and was acknowledged as a legitimate son by the same. Dated at Worcester, the Ides of October, 1313.

Order to the dean of Wych to excommunicate those sons of iniquity who detain very many goods from the executors of the will of R. de B.

Acquittance to the executors of the will of Master N. de Wodeford, rector of the church of Fladebur', after hearing their account of the administration.

Appointment by the Prior of Worcester of the perpetual vicar of Holt as curate to Master Giles de Alnechirch, rector of the church "de la Holte", of the deanery of Worcester, who is broken down by old age so that he cannot take charge of the cure committed to him in his church, therefore the said vicar is enjoined to prudently dispose the goods and fruits of the church and not to neglect the cure of souls.

[Fol. 86] Order by the Prior of Worcester to the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester to inquire of the rectors and vicars of the deanery of Pershore, and to certify the same Prior of the estate of the beneficiary of the parish church of Almeley under the castle of the same place, and of the appointment, removal, and collation of the same; and also what vicar or warden of the chantry of the castle of Almeleye or vicar of the parish church aforesaid was accustomed to appoint and remove the said beneficiary; and who, before the appointment of Master William de Hampton, now warden of the said chantry, was accustomed to appoint the said beneficiary. Dated at Worcester, tho 3rd of the Nones of January.

Order by the Prior of Worcester to the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester. Whereas the Prior has received a grievous complaint

150 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

from William de Boreford, clerk, admitted and instituted to the church of Pinnocschire, that many defects as well in the chancel as in the books, ornaments, houses, and manse remain unamended by default of his predecessor, he orders the same official to inquire as to the same. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Ides of January.

Order to the dean of Wych to cite certain persons, whose names are set out in a schedule [1], to appear before the Prior to answer certain articles touching medicine (medelam) for their souls.

Letter from J., Prior of Worcester, to the Abbot of Hales. Whereas the Prior lately visited the parish church of Hales, appropriated to the abbey of Hales, whereby there is due the accustomed procuration, of which the same Prior has to render an account to the Archbishop of Canterbury, he therefore prays that the same may be paid to him, or the sub-prior of Worcester, within three days. He also begs that the cope in which the same abbot was admitted to the gift of benediction (in qua munus benedictionis admisistis) may be transmitted to him, as before asked, that discord and litigation may not arise between them.

Order to the Archdeacon of Gloucester to cite all deans to appear with their rolls and muniments in the Cathedral Church of Worcester on Wednesday next, before the Feast of the Blessed Thomas the Apostle, to render an account of the Peter's pence collected in the diocese since the vacancy of the See, that is since 21 October. Dated at Worcester, the 4th of the Kalends of December, 1313.

[Fol. 86d] Letter from the Prior of Worcester to all archdeacons and their officials, deans, rectors, vicars, and chaplains and others ministering in churches and chapels, as well exempt as not exempt, throughout the city and diocese of Worcester. That when R. de B., proctor or envoy (iiuncius) of the great bridge over the Severn at Worcester, or T. de W., his substitute, should come to beg the alms of the faithful, that they be admitted kindly and without contradiction, and whatever be collected be handed to them, and if any impede the same proctor in collecting the alms of the faithful, that

[1] Schedule not given.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 151

they be restrained by ecclesiastical censures and cited to appear before the Prior or his commissary. Dated at Worcester, the 11th of the Kalends of March, 1313.

Purgation of Thomas de Hanneye, clerk, indicted of theft and homicide with form of purgation. Made in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, on Wednesday, after the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Mary the Virgin, 1313.

Purgation of John Neel, clerk, indicted of theft and robbery, with form of purgation. Made in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, on the above date.

Commission to W. de B. to receive and take into custody clerks indicted before the Justices of gaol delivery in the city of Worcester. Dated 12th of the Kalends of January, 1313.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Archdeacon of Worcester. Whereas Gilbert, bishop of Annaghdown [l] (Enachdunensis), proposes to celebrate ordinations on Saturday, quatuor temporum, in the first week of Lent, in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, the same Archdeacon is ordered to cite all those who have not yet received the full the orders which the cure of their benefices requires, either before the last Council of Lyons or after, and others who propose to be promoted to orders. Dated at Worcester, the 15th of the Kalends of March, 1313.

Commission from the Prior of Worcester to the bishop of Annaghdown to confirm children (pueros), bless altars, dedicate cemeteries and churches, and celebrate orders in the diocese of Worcester until the same commission be revoked. Dated at Worcester, the 3rd of the Nones of December, 1313.

Letters dimissory to Bartholomew de Elmham, rector of the second portion (secunda portionis) of the church of Biseleye, a deacon of the diocese of Worcester, giving him licence to be promoted to priests' orders by any bishop of the Apostolic See, notwithstanding he was beneficed in the said diocese. Dated at Worcester, the 4th of the Nones of December, 1313.

[1] In Ireland.

152 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

[Fol. 87d] Letters dimissory to Roger de Audeleye, son of Sir Hugh de Audeleye, knight, to be promoted to minor orders by any catholic bishop, notwithstanding he was born in the diocese of Worcester.

Like letters dimissory to Richard, son of John de Fladebur', of Bradeweye, for ordination to acolyte's orders. Dated the 13th of the Kalends of January.

Like letter dimissory to Master Thomas de Brithlampton, rector of the church of Estlech St. Martin, for sub-deacon's orders. Dated the 12th of the Kalends of January.

Like letters dimissory to John de Crombe, clerk, for sub-deacon's orders. Dated as above.

Like letters dimissory to Richard de Wootton, rector of the church of Torteworth, for all holy orders, at the instance of N. de Bradefeld. Dated the 3rd of the Kalends of February.

Letters dimissory to the abbot of Bordesleye, of the Cistercian Order, to receive the gift of blessing in canonical form from any bishop. Dated at Worcester, the Nones of February, 1313.

Licence to Giles de Baggesore, rector of the church of Aston Cantelou, deacon, of the diocese of Worcester, to absent himself for purposes of study for two years from his church, provided he depute a fit chaplain for the cure of souls and the services of his church during his absence.

Proclamation by the Prior of Worcester, that Master Thomas Talebot, rector of the church of Toneworth, sub-deacon, of the diocese of Worcester, as it is said, came to the Prior at Worcester on the 12th of the Kalends of January, 1313, prepared to be admitted to the orders which the cure of his benefice required, but by default of the bishop not celebrating orders on the Saturday following he retired unordained, with a public protest, as he was bound. Dated at Worcester on the morrow of the Blessed Thomas the Apostle.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 153

Memorandum that John le Chamberleyn, of the diocese of Worcester, was ordained sub-deacon to a title by patrimony, by J., Bishop of Landaff [1], celebrating orders on Saturday, quatuor temporum, after the Feast of St. Lucy the Virgin, 1308, in the church of the Friars Minors of Gloucester, in the place of W., Bishop of Worcester [2]. And the same John was ordained deacon by the venerable father R. [3], Bishop of Hereford, in the church of Ledebury, by special commission, for ordaining subjects of the Bishop of Worcester, on Saturday, quatuor temporum, the vigil of Holy Trinity, 1310, to a title by patrimony.

[Fol. 88] Declaration by the Prior of Worcester in accordance with the above memorandum.

Letters testimonial that Thomas Sweteman, of Gloucester, was ordained deacon by the Bishop of Annaghdown on Saturday, quatuor temporum, in the first week of Lent, 1313, in the Cathedral Church of Worcester. Dated at Worcester, the 6th of the Nones of March.

ORDERS celebrated in the Cathedral Church of Worcester on Saturday, quatuor temporum, in the first week of Lent, 1313, by Gilbert, Bishop of Annaghdown, at the request of the Prior of Worcester, the See being vacant.

SUB-DEACONS.

John de Walcote, rector of the church of Herforton.
Richard Sely, of Norton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the Dean of Gloucester, and stated himself satisfied therewith (de quo docuit sub sigillo decani Glouc', et se contentum reputavif).
Thomas de Kyderm', on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars by letters of the Archdeacon of Shrewsbury, and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John Partrich, of Hallowe, on the presentation of the Prior of Worcester.
Thomas le Scherare, of Gloucester, on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars under the seal of the Dean of Gloucester, and stated himself satisfied therewith.

[1] John of Monmouth.
[2] Walter Reynolds.
[3] Richard Swinfield.

154 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

William de Humelton, on a title by patrimony, of which he made oath (de quo jur'}, and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry Constantine, of Newynton, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester by the Prior.
Richard Scheremon, of Stretford, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
William, son of Richard de Cotes, of Great Comberton, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester.
John Bonde, of Chiltenham, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Roger Ede, of Binynton, on a title of an annual rent, of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester. Walter Godbenydons, on a title of an annual pension of 40s.
from the house of Alecestr', of which he gave particulars by letters of the Abbot and Convent of the same place.
Nicholas de Upton, of Gloucester, on a title of an annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester, the See being vacant.
John le Dekene, of Alicestr', on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester. Let it stand for two years (stet per tiennium').
John atte Broke, of Kyngton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
[Fol. 88d] Walter de Howe, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
John, son of Robert Jones, of Utlycote, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester. Let it stand for three years (stet per triennium).
Robert, called Broun, of Honynton, on the presentation of the house of Holy Trinity, of Telefford, of which he gave particulars under seal of the same.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 155

Warine de Lench, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester, at the instance of J. Brevel.
John, son of Walter Rondulf, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester.
Robert, son of Robert de Folchery, on a title of the annual rent of 6 marks, of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester.
Henry de Risindon Magna, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
William Bilyas, of the Castle, by letters dimissory of his diocesan, to the rector, C. de Copegrave.
John Waller, of Wych, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Adam Ody, of Wyk, on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars and made oath, and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John de Hayle, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of Krekelade, of which he gave particulars by letters of the same.
Simon, son of John Knyst, of Bradeleye, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Alexander Fraunceys, of Cochull, on the presentation of brother William de Cochull, Prior of the hospital of St. John of Jerusalem. Henry Brid, of Chorleton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Walter, son of Walter de Chircheleye, of Boclonde, on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars under seal of the Dean of Campeden.
John, son of Richard, the Baker of Bremesgrave, on a title by the annual rent of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Thomas, son of Thomas Scherreve, of Morton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester.

156 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Gilbert de Mukelton, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the Dean of Campeden.
Walter Steorte, of Gloucester, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars and made oath, and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Vincent de la Felde, of Gloucester, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
William, son of Richard atte Mulne, of Bremesgrave, on a title of the annual rent of 45s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
John Kent, of Cadelstrop, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the Dean of Gloucester.
John de Solers, on the presentation of the minister and brothers of the house of the Holy Trinity of Telefford, of which he gave particulars by letters of the same.
William de Couele, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
William Osegod, of Aston, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Robert de Pertegreve, of King's Norton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
William Laurence, of Bervynton Parva, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Robert de Cokeburn, of Marcleye, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Roger Baret, of Bredon, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry, son of Nicholas Clerk, of Whitechurch, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry Doke, of Wynterton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John le Verdun, of Bishampton, on a title of the annual rent of

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 157

40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Adam de Ollanton, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Simon de Wollaynton, on a title of the annual rent of 30s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Nicholas, son of William Fennyng, of Brome, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
William, son of Ranulph le Cok, of Alync', on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry le Marchal, of Quenynton, on the presentation of brother William de Tothale, Prior of St. John of Jerusalem.
Walter Tovy, of Bradewas, on the presentation of the Prior of Worcester.
Peter de Wykes, son of Simon de Saxilby, on the presentation of the minister and brothers of the hospital of the Holy Trinity of Telefford. Let it stand for two years.
Robert le Neumon, of Mukelton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Thomas, son of Richard, son of Roger Stirthop, on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Walter Faber, of Budyford, Richard de Whistlakefford, and John Geffrey, of Budyford, on a title by the master of the hospital of Brafton, particulars of which he swore to send (quern miltere juravit). Lucas Cosyn, of Compton Scorefen, on a title by patrimony of 2 marks, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Richard Sparhaukes, of Campeden, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry Gody, of Humelton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith by the Sub-Prior.
William, son of John Goth, of Haya, in the diocese of St. David's, by letters dimissory of his diocesan.
William Dragun, of Wych, on a title of the annual rent of 40s.,

158 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Adam de Abyndon, on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Robert, rector of the church of Haselton.
Thomas de Bristlamton, rector of the church of Estlech.
Walter, rector of the church of Bradeweye.
Thomas Lappole, of Hales, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Thomas, son of Richard de Aula, on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John, son of John le Fremon, of Listethurn, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.

[Fol. 89] Richard de Schirrivelench, on a title of an annual rent, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Robert de Hulle, of Besford, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry de Listhern', on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Thomas de Twenyng', on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Thomas Swetemon, of Gloucester, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John de Heyford, by the Prior on the representation of Sir Alexander de Brirhulle (nunciante domino Alexandra de Brirhulle).
Henry Cogon, by the Prior, for two years (per biennium}.
John Savage, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith, for two years.
John de Exford, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John de Uphathereye, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John le VValeys, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Roger de Stretford, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 159

Adam de Fladebur', on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Richard Mustel, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Richard, son of John de Rothewell, on a sufficient title, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.

SUB-DEACONS OF RELIGIOUS ORDERS.

Brother Robert Mose, monk of Worcester.
Brother John de Newynton, monk of Worcester.
Brother John de Kydermenster, monk of Bordesleye.
Brother William de Wykes, monk of Bordesleye.
Brother Richard de Pyryton, canon of Lanthony next Gloucester.
Brother Alan de Codinton, canon of Lanthony next Gloucester.
Brother John de Elemor, canon of Lanthony next Gloucester.
Brother Robert de Befford, of the order of [Friars] Minors.
Brother John de Abindon, of the Carmelite order.

SECULARS.

John, son of Walter Borbast, of Aldewych, on the presentation of the prior and brothers of the hospital of St. John of Lecchelade.
Phillip Bonere, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars under the seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
John, son of John le Warner, of Bredon, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Nicholas de Pillardinton, on a title by patrimony of 40s. of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
William le Taylour, of Cherleton, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Richard, son of Nicholas le Vinour, of Worcester, on a title of the annual rent of 30s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of Worcester. Let it stand for two years (stet per biennium).
John de Bampton, of Malgaresbur', on a title by patrimony of

160 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
John Hennyng, of Wilmecote, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Hugh Ernald, of Persore, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
William de Ilmedon, on a title by patrimony of 30s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Lawrence, son of Richard Brid, of Eldresfeld, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Thomas de Aston Somervyle, on a title by patrimony of 20s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John, the sacristan of Bretnesgrave, is admitted without title by the grace of the Prior of Worcester, at the instance of the Vicar of the same place.
Thomas de Iccumbe, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Thomas, called Partrich, of Worcester, on a title of the annual rent of 2 marks, of which he gave particulars under seal of the Prior of Worcester.
William de Bocthrop, by grace of the Prior of Worcester, without title.
John, son of Hugh de Troye, of Puplinton, on a title of the annual rent of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
John de Hamstede, of Market Sobbur', on a title by patrimony, of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith. Walter de Harsfeld, by grace of the Prior of Worcester.
Thomas le Mercer, of Worcester, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
William, son of Ralph de Cumpton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
John Pedhokes, of Hampton Lovet, on a title of the annual

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. l61

rent of 30s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John Golde, of Crombe, on a title of the annual rent of 20s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
David, son of Robert, son of Warine de Comberton Parva, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
William de Welleford, at the presentation of the Prior of the hospital of St. Bartholomew of Gloucester.
John de Morton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Peter de Bradeweye, on the representation of brother Henry de Antioch, because the prior admitted the same.
John de Evesham, called Cokes, by letters dimissory of the abbot of Eveshamye.
Richard de Cokebur', on the presentation of the abbot of Winchcumb, Richard de Haukeslowe being witness.
John de Eldresfeld, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Gloucester.
Reginald Bonecher, of Goderynton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
Richard Gladewyne, of Hodinton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
John, son of John le Blake, of Upton, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars under seal of the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.
John Warner, of Bradeweye, on a title by patrimony of 20s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Robert, son of Henry de Lench' of Bontleye, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Richard Graunt, of Ebuston, on a title by patrimony of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Walter Defford, on a title of 40s., of which he gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.

162 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Ralph de Biseleye, at the presentation of the Prior and Convent of Lanthony next Gloucester.
John Chivaler, on a title by patrimony, of which he made oath and gave particulars and stated himself satisfied therewith.

[Fol. 89d] DEACONS.

John Hope, of Bradeweye, on a title by patrimony, of which he made oath and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Hugh Aleyn, of Merston Botiler, on a title of 40s. annual rent.
William de Stategrave, on the presentation of the Prior and Convent of Coldenorton.
Robert de Kerswelle, on a title by patrimony, as is above stated.
Henry de Staunton, on a title by patrimony, as above.
John, called the Chaplain of Seynesbur', on a title by patrimony.
Nicholas Reynald, of Saltford, on a title by patrimony.
William Lambert, of Farncote, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Richard, called Clerk, of Gloucester, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of St. Bartholomew of Gloucester.
Richard de Bernynton Parva, on a title by patrimony, as above.
John Chiterling, of Wych, on a title by patrimony.
John le Palmere, of Kenemersford, on the presentation of the Prior and Convent of Lecchelade.
Nicholas le Guldare, of Kenemersford, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of St. John of Cirencester.
Philip de Rysindon, on a title by patrimony, as above.
William de la Ryne, of Kenemersford, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of St. Bartholomew of Gloucester.
William le Mason, of Merston, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of the hospital of St. John of Crykelade.
Henry, son of Walter atte Htirne, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of the hospital of St. John of Crykelade.
John Bevereches, of Combrok, on a title by patrimony.
William Fortheye, of Fayreford, on the presentation of the Prior and Convent of Brueria.
Henry, son of William de Leech', on a title by patrimony.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 163

Philip de Longeleye, on a title by patrimony.
William de Kenemersford, on the presentation of the Prior and brothers of the hospital of St. John of Lecchelade.
William de Aston Somervile, on a title by patrimony.
Richard Dun, of Cheltenham, on a title by patrimony.
William de Hampton Monialium, on a title by patrimony.
Jordan le Botiler, of Claverdon, on a title by patrimony.
William, son of Richard Sileburn, on a title by patrimony.
Hugh Dag, of Persore, on a title by patrimony.
Richard de Chaveringworth, on a title by patrimony.
Henry Ketelbern, on a title by patrimony, it appears from the orders.
William le Marechal, of Haltford, on a title by patrimony, but it does not suffice for the higher orders (sed non apparet de ulterioribus ordinibus).
John Hikedon, of Faireford, on a title by patrimony.
John, son of John de Barton, of Morton, on exhibiting letters of orders, he is to be confirmed in his orders hereafter (sub ca' ex'hndi tras' ord' sui constat de ord' pg).
Henry Houwe, of Stretford, on a title of 40s. annual rent.
Thomas Botacre, on a title by patrimony. It will suffice for a year (stabit per annum}.
John de Halford, on a title by patrimony.
William de Halford, on a title by patrimony.
Walter de Atheresthrop, on a title by patrimony.
John de Almyndestr', on a title by patrimony.
William Godefrey, of Seynesbur', on a title by patrimony.
Richard, son of Reginald le Parker, on the presentation of the Abbot and Convent of Alyncestr'. It will suffice for a year.
John Mason, of Merston Meysey, on the presentation of the hospital of Crickelade.
John de Schirwold, of Merston Meysey, on the presentation of the same hospital.
Robert Eleaunt, of Iccumbe, on the presentation of the Abbot of Brueria. It will suffice for a year.
Ralph Blount, of Estlecch, on a title of an annual rent.
Henry de Uphamton, on a title of an annual rent.
John Brun, on a title by patrimony. It will suffice for two years.

164 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

John Gilbert, of Norton, on a title by patrimony.
John de la Flagge, by letters from the Roman Court.
Richard de Cherleton, on a title by patrimony.
Richard Bouetoun, of Dome, on a title by patrimony.
Adam Remon, of Evesham, on the presentation of the Abbot of Evesham.
Richard de Flaylesworth, on a title by patrimony. It will suffice for a year.
Peter de Haleford, on a title by patrimony.
Thomas de Wesbur', on a title by patrimony.
Henry Lilie, of Wormynton, on a title by patrimony.
John Giffard, of Preston, on a title by patrimony.
Richard Drake, of Hosintr', on a title of an annual rent.
Thomas Lewyn, of Swyndon, on a title by patrimony.
John Crede, of Swyndon, on a title by patrimony.
William de Caldewalle, on a title by patrimony.
John Newemon, of Rysindon Magna, on a title by patrimony.
John atte Noke, of Shirburn, on a title by patrimony.
Robert de Leyntrenton, on a title by patrimony.
Henry de la Stowe, on a title by patrimony.
John Eustas, of Pillardinton, on a title by patrimony.
John de Pillardinton, on a title by patrimony.
William Sare, of Bratforton, by letters of the Abbot of Evesham.
Walter Gurdon, of Tettebur', on a title by patrimony.
Thomas de Ryndecumbe, on a title by patrimony.
Laurence de Welleford, on a title by patrimony.
Thomas Twich, of Evesham, on a title by patrimony, by letters dimissory of the Abbot of Evesham.
William Baldwyne, of Littleton, on a title by patrimony.
Robert de Walton, on a title of an annual rent.
Walter de Molendino, of Chirinton, on a title by patrimony.
John de Aston Simervile, on a title by patrimony.
Alan Barettous, of Merston Botiler, on a title by patrimony.
John Payn, of Mildecumbe, on the presentation of the Abbot of Evesham, by letters dimissory.
John de Solers, of Wynston, on a title by St. Frideswyde, Oxford.
Walter, son of William le Yonge, of Stonhuse, on a title by patrimony.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 165

[1] rector of the chapel of Tokinton.

Giles, rector of the church of Aston Cantelu.
Thomas Besforel, rector of one portion of the church of Leg'.

PRIESTS.

[Fol. 90] Thomas de Saldford, on a title by patrimony, which he swore to be true and stated himself satisfied therewith.
Henry de Neubold, on a title of 40s. annual rent, of which he made oath and stated himself satisfied therewith.
John Rondulf, of Stourton, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Simon de Lucwelle, of Haltfordwykes, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Robert Geffrey, of Budyford, on a title by the Prior of the hospital of St. John of Jerusalem.
Simon de la Hulle, of Seypton, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Robert de Chaddeswelle, on a title by patrimony as above.
Hugh Fraunkeleyn of Pebbeworth, on the presentation of the Abbot and convent of Alyncestr'.
Robert de la Sherde, on a title by patrimony.
William le Rous, of Longeberg', on the presentation of the Abbot and convent of Brueria.
John de Bengeworth, by letters from the Abbot of Evesham.
Reginald Sport, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Robert de Utlycote, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Richard de la Grene, of Dumbelton, on a title by patrimony, as above.
Richard de la Felde, of Kings Norton, on a title by patrimony.
William de Lackesleye, on a title of 50s. annual rent.
Adam atte Welle, of Wyk, on a title by patrimony.
Peter le Wyte, of Worcester, on a title by patrimony.
John de Birlingham, on a title of 50s. annual rent.
William de Edbriston, on a title by patrimony.
John de la Berne, of Tonworth, on a title by patrimony.
Robert le Coupere, of Feckenham, on the request of J. de Bradewa'.
William le Meror, of Haltford, on a title by patrimony.
John de Eldresfeld, on a title by patrimony.

[1] Blank in MS.

166 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Henry Lambert, of Farncote, on a title by patrimony.
Robert de Sotheye, on a title by patrimony.
William Anketel, of Merston Sicca, on the presentation of the Abbot and convent of Wynchecumb.
Simon de Rowynton, on the title of an annual rent.
Henry, son of John Morice, of Seynesbur', on a title by patrimony.
Thomas de Iccumbe, on the presentation of the Abbot and convent of Brueria.
John de Belnebrocton, on a title of 40s. annual rent.
Walter le Barber, on a title by patrimony.
Nicholas de Leobur', on a title by patrimony.
Robert de Lench, on a title by patrimony.
Adam de Hiddeleye, of Hales, on a title of an annual rent.
Hugh de Wycheneford, on a title by patrimony.
Roger Noch, of Norton Regis, on a title of 40s.
Robert de Hynkeleye, on a title by patrimony, in the diocese of Lincoln.
John de Seynesbur', on a title by patrimony.
John Richeman, of Stovve, on a title by patrimony.
Jurdan de Wellesburn, on a title by patrimony.
Thomas de Morton Daubeney, on a title by patrimony.
John Pictor, of Burlingham, on a title by patrimony.
William de Staunton, on a title by patrimony.
Hugh de Salsomarisco, on a title by patrimony.
Robert de Nategrave, on a title by patrimony.
Nicholas de Seynesbur', on a title by patrimony.
John le Marchal, of Campeden, on a title by patrimony.
Walter Bacare, of Oxulue, on a title by patrimony.
William Dur, of Bratforton, on a title by patrimony.
William atte Hulle, of Seynesbur', on a title by patrimony.
Henry de Basinge, rector of the church of Radmerton.
Robert Dod, of Lechlade, on a title by the Prior and brothers of the same place.
Henry de Bredon, on a title by patrimony.
Nicholas Brown, of Wenrich, on a title by patrimony.
Philip de Bebmor, on a title by patrimony.
William Fremon of Malgaresbur', on a title by patrimony.
William de Eyford, on a title by patrimony.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 167

Robert de Borton, on a title by patrimony.
Henry atte Drone, of Little Buton, on a title by patrimony.
Adam de la Deyme, on a title by the Prior of the hospital of St. Bartholomew of Gloucester.
Philip de Boseworth, rector of the church of Lenchroculf.
Robert de Burlingham, on a title by patrimony.
Richard de la Felde, of Kydermenstr', on a title by patrimony.
Thomas Wismon, of Boreford, on a title by patrimony.
Nicholas Besford, on a title of an annual rent.
Richard Hope, of Marcleye, on a title by patrimony.
William Willarsleye, on the grace of the lord prior.
Thomas le Bakare, of Marcleye, on a title of an annual rent.
John de Hudycote, on a title by patrimony.
William Aleyn, of Grafton, on the presentation of the Master there.
William Rayton, by letters dimissory.
Walter de Grafton, by the Master of Grafton.
Henry de Grafton, by the same Master.
Robert de Hylberworth, on the presentation by the Master of the hospital of Grafton.
John de Coteville, of Preston, on a title by patrimony.
William de Swyneford, on a title by patrimony.
John de Willarseye, on the title of the hospital of Grafton.
Adam Zemon.

ACOLYTES.

Richard de Glen.
Thomas de Stonl'.
William Day, of Persore.
Henry de Raggeleye.
Nicholas de Berton.
Henry de Wych.
Henry Aleyn, of King's Norton.
Roger Bracun, of Henleye.
Richard Mile, of Brokehampton.
Henry Mile, of the same place.
Ralph Tankard, of Warwick.
Richard de Wrokeshale.
John Senar, of Hambur'.

168 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

John de Benweshale.
John Spryn, of Alycestr'.
Adam de Hertlebury.
Thomas de Pipplinton, of Alicestr'.
Nicholas de Hales.
Stephen de Croppethorn.
Thomas Senol, of Bremesgrave.
William de Belne.
John le Deye, of Warwick.
Thomas, son of Thomas de Hani'.
John Trappe, of Aston.
Walter de Mutton.
William de Wotton, of Warwick.
John the Clerk, of Schirburn.
Henry Colemon, of Inteberwe.
Fol. 90^. Reginald de Hertlebur'.
John de Persore, of Alycestr'.
Robert de Welesburne.
Robert atte Frithe.
William de Elmeleye.
John de Ippesleye.
Thomas de Pillarton.
Robert de Croule.
Philip atte More, of Wolvardinton.
John de Newent.
William de Aldermeston.
Thomas Pal, of Claverdon.
Adam Giffard, of Preston.
William de Newenham.
Henry de Pillarton.
William de Utlycote.
William de Horcote.
Robert le Vox.
John de Pillarton.
John Godmon.
Robert de Pillardinton.
John de Baldenhale.
John Bedc', of Malverne.
Robert Slym, of Wych.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 169

Henry de Hampton Episcopi.
John de Schraneleye.
Thomas de Bradewas.
John Mayel.
John de Russok.
Roger de Ombersleye.
Nicholas de Tedinton.
Henry de Alne.
John de Wellesburn.
John de Hope, of Marcleye.
Robert atte More, of Hambur'.
Thomas de Hampton Episcopi.
Thomas Rouwel, of Warwick.
Richard Melecot, of Kyderminster.
Nicholas de Wolaynton.
Robert de Throkemarton.
John le Bonde, of Saldford.
William de Ledinton.
Simon de Stratford.
Thomas Pynel.
Thomas de Bercheston.
William de Snytenfeld.
Roger Champion, of Folrich.
Peter de Incoberwe.
Henry de Hales.

[Fol. 90d] The process against W. de Stanweye, rector of Bradwas, for the crimes of adultery and incest.

Certificate that on 5 February, 1313[-14], in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, before brother Richard de Bromwycho, S.T.P., commissary of the Prior of Worcester, and in the presence of a notary public, there was exhibited and read a certain commission from the Prior of Worcester dated the 9th of the Kalends of February, 1313, directed to the same brother Richard de Bromwycho, monk of Worcester, and Master Simon de Wonecote, clerk, authorizing them to make visitation in the diocese of Worcester, and to correct crimes and faults [1]. There was also read a certificate by the Dean

[1] See ante, p. 142.

170 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

of Worcester of the receipt of a mandate from brother Richard de Bromwycho, commissary of the same Prior, to the said dean, dated at Worcester the 4th of the Kalends of February, 1313, enjoining him to cite Master William de Staneweye, representing himself to be rector of the church of Bradewas, to appear before the said Prior, the said brother Richard, or other commissary, in the Cathedral Church of Worcester on the second law-day after the feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin next to come, to make answer upon certain articles to be objected against him, for the correction of his soul, the reformation of his estate and of the church of Bradewas. By authority of which mandate the said dean on the 2nd of the Kalends of February, cited the said Master William de Stanweye at Bradewas aforesaid. Afterwards on the second law-day after the feast of the Purification process was made against the said Master William de Staneweye in the Cathedral Church of Worcester by brother Richard de Bromwycho. On which day the same William appeared and the said articles were shown him, the substance of which articles is as follows, that after the said William de Stanewaye had obtained the said church of Bradewas by title of institution and was in holy orders, he publicly kept in his own and other persons' houses certain women, that is to say, Margery, wife of Henry Morkoc, his parishioner and spiritual daughter, and a certain Matilda, who passed for his dairy-maid, as his concubines, contrary to the constitutions of the Lords Otto and Ottobon, legates in England against concubinage, by occasion whereof he was suspended from his office and benefice and the fruits thereof, yet nevertheless meddled with the same as rector. Also that after he had obtained the same church by title of institution he knowingly committed the crimes of adultery and incest with certain other women, his parishioners and spiritual daughters, to wit, with Agnes Batekos [1], wife of John de Sapy, sister in blood of the said Margery, Cristina Peyt, wife of Nicholas Peyt of Bradewas, and Agnes, wife of Adam Upathome. Also that he laid violent hands upon William, called Parcy, a clerk, knowing him to be a clerk, and so by the canon - Siquis suadente dyabolo - being thereby ipso facto excommunicated, he, yet in his priestly office, performed divine service, many times celebrating mass. Upon which it is intended to proceed against him. And the same William having inspected the same articles and having asked for some

[1] In another place spelt Badecok.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 171

delay, it was granted to him till the hour of vespers of the same day to answer the headings in the said article, when the said William appeared, but after being ordered and warned, did not care to answer the same articles. Wherefore Wednesday following was fixed for him to answer them, and to proceed further in the said business. On which day the said William appearing, alleged, as to the charge concerning Margaret Morkoc, that correction was made, before William de Geynesborow, formerly Bishop of Worcester. As to the other charges, to which he had not yet replied, he answered in the negative, admitting nevertheless the report, and asking that canonical purgation might be adjudged to him; as to the charge concerning William Parcy, he answered in the affirmative, alleging nevertheless, that he so laid hands upon the same William for a cause permitted by law. Whereupon at his petition, Saturday following was fixed for the same William to show the alleged correction and to purge himself with the eighth hand (cum octava mami) of his order and condition upon the articles denied by him, and to prove that he laid hands upon the said William Parcy for a cause permitted by law. Upon which day the said William de Staneweye did not appear, and it was decreed that he should be called on the second law-day after the feast of S. Scholastica the Virgin in the parish church of Dydebrok to hear final judgment and definitive sentence upon the premises. Upon which day, having read the certificate by the Dean of Worcester of the citation of the said William, the said William appeared personally, and by two advocates, and they having alleged certain frivolous matters, sentence was pronounced, which was that the matter of the correction of the estate of Master William de Staneweye, who represents himself to be rector of the church of Bradewas, and the state of the same church having been heard, it was found by the said commissary that the same William being in holy orders publicly kept in his own and other people's houses, Margery Morcok, wife of Henry Morcok, his parishioner and spiritual daughter, for a month and more, without removing her from him, and also that he meddled in the said ecclesiastical benefice without any condign satisfaction (absque aliqua condigna satisfactione), upon this and also for certain other things in the said articles contained, sufficiently proved by his own confession, he may be held to be convicted or as convicted, wherefore he is pronounced to be deprived of the said church of Bradewas, and the same

172 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

William is decreed to be removed from the same church. Witnesses to the above proceedings, Thomas de Stoke, John de Lowe, William le Luminour, Walter de Walecote, and William Mayel. Notarial certificates by William Rici of Kunle, called de Wormintone, clerk of the diocese of Worcester, and Thomas de Stokes, clerk of the diocese of Oxford, notaries public.

[Fol. 92] Judgment by the Dean of Arches in the same matter, reciting the above proceedings and setting out that appeal was made to the apostolic see by the same William de Staneweye, and upon the case coming before the same dean of the church of the Blessed Mary of the Arches of London, commissary-general of the court of Canterbury, he found that the same brother Richard had rightfully and lawfully proceeded to the delivery of his sentence, and nothing had been proposed or proved by the said Master William de Staneweye to the contrary. And therefore the said dean confirmed the aforesaid sentence and condemned the said William in 40s. costs. Dated at London, the 4th of the Kalends of August, 1314.

[Fol. 92d] Proceedings in the church of the Blessed Mary of the Arches, London, before Nicholas de Gore, examiner-general of the court of Canterbury, special commissary on this behalf of the official of the same court, on the 2nd of the Nones of November, 1314, in the appeal from the diffinitive sentence of the dean of the church of the Blessed Mary of the Arches, London, commissary-general of the official of the court of Canterbury, in the matter between Master William de Staneweye, appellant, by Master William de Henton, his proctor, and brother Richard de Bromwycho, monk of Worcester, the party appealed, by Master Thomas de Taff, his proctor. Letters certificatory having been read before the same Nicholas de Gore, the 7th of the Ides of November was fixed for further hearing, when the matter was adjourned, and afterwards was from time to time adjourned; at one of which adjournments Master William de Burnaston was substituted for the said Master William de Henton. On the eighth law-day after the feast of St. Valentine, brother Richard, having produced three witnesses, and the aforesaid William two, the names of whom remain in the possession of the clerk, and it having been decreed that fourteen witnesses should be called on behalf of the same William, the cause was again adjourned to

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 173

the third law-day after the feast of St. Gregory the Pope, on which day the matter was adjourned to the second law-day after the Sunday on which is sung the office Misericordia Domini [1], after which the matter was from time to time adjourned till the 9 May, 1315, when the said Nicholas de Gore found that the same brother Richard and the said dean proceeded to their aforesaid sentences rightly and lawfully, and confirmed them and condemned the same Master William in 40s. costs.

[Fol. 93] Commission from the official of the court of Canterbury to Master Nicholas de Gore, examiner-general of the court of Canterbury, to try the above case. Dated at London, the 2nd of the Ides of October, 1314.

Similar commission dated at London, the 3rd of the Nones of May, 1315.

[Fol. 93d] Judgment as above by the aforesaid Nicholas de Gore, again reciting the whole proceedings. Dated at London, the 8th of the Ides of May, 1315.

[Fol. 94] Notarial certificate by Peter Reginald of Wynburn, clerk of the diocese of Salisbury, notary public. Dated 9 May, 1315. Witnesses, William Russel, Geoffrey de Sutton, John de Schepton, John de Wymburn, and others.

Like certificate by John de la Burghe of Schepton Beauchamp, clerk of the diocese of Bath and Wells, notary public.

Mandate from Walter, Bishop of Worcester, to the Dean of Worcester reciting a mandate, dated at London the 6th of the Ides of May, 1315, from Master Nicholas de Gore to the said bishop to publish the said judgment, and to warn the said William de Staneweye to pay the said 40s. to brother Richard de Bromwycho within fifteen days, and to re-induct Master Richard de Glen [2], who was instituted rector of the church of Bradewas, desiring the said dean to publish the said judgment and re-induct the said Richard de Glen, as above. Dated at Marteleye, the 4th of the Kalends of June, 1315.

[Fol. 95] Order from Walter, Bishop of Worcester, principal

[1] Second Sunday after Easter.
[2] See ante, p. 141.

174 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

collector of the tithe for six years in the diocese of Worcester, to the Prior and Convent of Worcester, sub-collectors in the Archdeaconry of Worcester, 1313.

Letter from Walter, Bishop of Worcester, to the Prior and Convent of Worcester stating that he had received letters of Pope Clement V. concerning the imposition of a tithe for six years, at the last general Council held at Vienne [1]; which letters were directed to the Archbishop of Canterbury and his Suffragans, and at the command of the Reverend H., Prior of Christ Church, Canterbury, were sent to the said bishop to be inspected and transcribed.

Papal bull by Pope Clement V., addressed to all abbots, priors, deans, archdeacons, provosts, arch priests (archipresbiteris), and other prelates, chapters, colleges, and convents of the Cistercian, Cluniac, Premonstratensian, Benedictine, Augustine, Carthusian, of Grandemount, and other ecclesiastical persons, secular and regular, exempt and not exempt, throughout the city, diocese and province of Canterbury, the priors or preceptors and other persons and places, of St. John of Jerusalem and other knightly orders only excepted. Our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, so dearly loved Syon, that is to say, the Holy Land, that He chose it to Himself, as an inheritance and patrimony, and adorned it with His presence, being clothed in the apparel of our flesh, and consecrated it by the shedding of His most precious blood; but it is to be grievously lamented and bitterly bewailed that so bright an inheritance of our Redeemer has become the property of aliens, and lies confounded by the fury of the Babylonish persecutor, trampled down by the feet of the defiled, and is miserably detained, being polluted and occupied by the most filthy Sarascens, faithless enemies to the name of Christian, and Christian people being inhumanly murdered in it to the great affront of the Creator, and the injury and grief of all Christianity, and there the name of Christ is horribly blasphemed by the abominable filthiness of their enemies. And so by cruel scourges the afflicted country is sad, and, from the intolerable persecution which it suffers increasing the lamentations, it cries out to the vicar of Christ, and the principal Christians; being wounded by reproaches it shows its wounds to those from whom it might expect the aid of a physician; it desires the right-handed vengeance of those for whose salvation the

[1] 1312, 8th year of Clement V.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 175

author of salvation bore the passion of the cross in it. These things and others having touched the heart of the pope and desiring to seek a remedy he caused the matter to be brought forward at the genera Council at Vienne, when it was maturely and diligently considered by the brothers of the Holy Roman Church, the cardinals, patriarchs archbishops and others, and also Phillip of France, and Lewis of Navarre, and many others, and at length it was determined to give succour to the same land by a subsidy of a tenth of all ecclesiastical rents and profits throughout the world, except only from the persons and places of hospitals of St. John of Jerusalem and other military orders, for six years from the Kalends of January last past. The pope therefore orders the collection of such tithe under pain of ecclesiastical censure. Dated at Avignon, the Kalends of December 8 Pont.

[Fol. 95d] Papal Bull from Pope Clement V., enjoining the payment of the said subsidy at certain times of the year, and that defaulters be dealt with under ecclesiastical censure. Dated at Avignon, the Kalends of December, 8 Pont.

By virtue of which letters the said Bishop of Worcester appoints the Prior and Convent of Worcester his sub-collectors in the Archdeaconry of Worcester, commanding them by virtue of their obedience to collect the same tithe. Dated at London, the 6th of the Ides of August, 1313.

[Fol. 96d] Order by the Prior and Convent of Worcester to the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester to cite all ecclesiastical persons, as well exempt as not exempt, except the priors, preceptors, masters and others of the hospital of St. John of Jerusalem and other military orders, throughout his archdeaconry, to appear at the Priory of Worcester on the morrow of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, concerning the moiety of the said tithe for the first term of the year. Dated at Worcester, the 15th of the Kalends of September.

Order by the Prior and Convent of Worcester to the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester. That whereas they had caused all ecclesiastical persons, regular and secular, as well exempt as not exempt, throughout the Archdeaconry of Worcester (except as above

176 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

excepted) to pay a moiety of the said tithe for the first term of the year, due on the morrow of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross [1] last past, under pain of the greater excommunication upon their persons and interdiction upon their churches, very many persons at the peril of their souls have neglected to attend to the same, therefore the said official is ordered to denounce the same persons whose names are set out in a schedule annexed to these presents [2], as having been excommunicated and their church interdicted until they receive the benefit of absolution or be released from the interdict. Dated at Worcester, the 3rd of the Nones of October, 1313.

Receipt by the Prior of Worcester, as sub-collector of the said tithe in the Archdeaconry of Worcester, and appointed receiver of the tithe collected in the Archdeaconry of Gloucester by Walter, Bishop of Worcester, to the Abbot and Convent of Cyrencester, appointed collectors of the same tithe in the Archdeaconry of Gloucester, by the hands of W. de Cornewell, almoner of Cyrencester, of 133li. 6s. ,8d., being a part of the same tithe. Dated at Worcester, the 11th of the Kalends of November, 1313.

Letter from the Prior and Convent of Worcester to W., Bishop of Worcester, that in accordance with his instructions to acquaint him of the amount of the said tithe, received within ten days after every term, they now acquaint him that they received at the term last past 100s.

[Fol. 97] Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Bishop of Worcester, calling attention to the fact that in one part of the letters apostolic, all ecclesiastical persons, exempt and not exempt, of whatsoever condition, except the military orders, are to pay the tithe; and elsewhere that it is to be paid according to the accustomed manner. It appears that there are certain persons, having slender means, and taxed at 6 marks and under, who at other times were not wont to pay. The prior requires the bishop's decision on the matter.

Order by the Prior of Worcester to the Abbot and Convent of Cyrencester, sub-collectors of the same tithe in the Archdeaconry

[1] 15 September.
[2] Schedule not given.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 177

of Gloucester, to pay the tithe aforesaid, collected in the Archdeaconry of Gloucester, before the feast of All Saints next in the Cathedral Church of Worcester.

Order by brother J., Prior of Worcester, to the Abbot of Cyrencester, to deliver the same tithe collected for this and the preceding term with the arrears.

Ordered by the Prior and Convent of Worcester to the official of Worcester. Whereas the same Prior and Convent have collected the greater part of the said tithe for the first year, but certain arrears thereof remain, and the collection of the same tithe for the second year for certain causes was delayed, it is now ordered that the same tithe with arrears be collected at once, and that the same official warn all ecclesiastical persons as before to pay the moiety of the same tithe at the Priory of Worcester on the morrow of St. Hilary next, under pain of the greater excommunication, and that he shall denounce those whose names are given in a schedule as being excommunicated. Dated the Kalends of December, 1314.

Vacancy of the See from the death of Walter de Maydenestan, 28th March, 1317, to the appointment of Thomas Cobham, November, 1317.

[Fol. 98] Register of Acts during the vacancy of the See of Worcester after the death of the lord Walter de Maydenestan, Bishop of Worcester. A. D. 1317.

Letter from John [1], Prior, and the Chapter of Worcester, to Walter, Archbishop of Canterbury, acquainting him with the death of the lord Walter, formerly Bishop of Worcester, on the 7th April, and praying that in accordance with the composition to make the same Prior his official and give him a commission in the city and diocese of Worcester, during the time of this vacancy, to take cognizance of causes belonging to a bishop, the institution and deprivation of clerks, election, examination, confirmation, information, and all other things in the said composition contained. And the said Prior and Chapter have appointed their brother J. de Sancto Briavello their proctor. Dated in the Chapter House, Worcester, 8 April, 1317.

[1] John de la Wyke.

178 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Commission by Walter [1], Archbishop of Canterbury, appointing the Prior of Worcester as his official in the city and diocese of Worcester, according to the composition made between the Priory of Worcester and Boniface, formerly Archbishop of Canterbury, during the vacancy of the See of Worcester by the death of W. de Maydenestone, late bishop. Dated at Lambeth, the Ides of April, 1317.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of P., ordering him to cite all abbots, priors, deans, provosts, preceptors, portionaries, masters of monasteries, collegiate churches, and hospitals of his deanery, and also rectors of churches, vicars, chaplains of parishes and rural chaplains, serving in the said deanery, as well exempt as not exempt from archidiaconal jurisdiction, that they appear in the Cathedral Church of Worcester on Saturday next after the Sunday on which is sung the office Quasimodo geniti [2], and make canonical obedience and hear the Prior's canonical mandates. Dated at Worcester, the 3rd of the Ides of April, 1317.

[Fol. 98d] Commission from the Prior of Worcester to Master W. de Lodelawe, rector of the church of Herfortone in the diocese of Worcester, giving him authority to hear and proceed in causes moved or to be moved in the city and diocese of Worcester, as well by his office as at the instance of parties, in the consistory, and to duly determine the same; and also to inquire as to excesses, crimes and faults in the said city and diocese, and to correct and punish the same, and to receive canonical obedience in the Prior's name. Dated at Worcester.

Appointment by the Prior of Worcester of Master W. de L., rector of the church of H., to the office of sequestrator in the city and diocese of Worcester during the vacancy of the See.

Letter from the Prior and Chapter of Worcester to Master J. de Oseworthe, late official of Worcester, requiring him to deliver the seal of the office of official of Worcester to J. de Sancto Briavello. Dated at Worcester.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to Stephen de Northeye,

[1] Walter Reynolds.
[2] First Sunday after Easter.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 179

rector of the church of Holy Trinity, Bristol, sequestrator of W., the late bishop, requiring him to deliver every register, roll, and muniments whatsoever, which pertain to the exercise of the Prior's jurisdiction, to the same Prior or his deputy at the church of the Blessed Nicholas of Gloucester on the next law-day after the Sunday in which is sung the office Misericordia Domini [1]. Dated at Worcester.

[Fol. 99] Letters from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of the Christianity of Worcester, declaring his intention to make visitation, and requiring the said dean to cite all abbots, abbesses, priors, prioresses, &c., in his Deanery, and also four parishioners from every parish church and three from every chapel, to appear in the Cathedral Church before the Prior or his deputy on a certain day to exhibit their privileges, instruments, muniments, dispensations, and letters whatsoever, if they have any, upon the appropriations of such churches, chapels, benefices, &c. Dated at Worcester, &c.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Poywyk, declaring his intention to make visitation of the deanery of Poywyk on a certain day, at the parish church of Poywyk, and requiring him to cite all Abbots, &c.

[Fol. 99d] Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Abbot of St. Peter of Gloucester, declaring his intention to make visitation of the monastery of Gloucester on the third law-day after the feast of the Ascension of our Lord, and requiring him to have all things prepared for such visitation. Dated at Worcester, the 17th of the Kalends of May, 1317.

Letter from John, Prior, and the Chapter of Worcester to King Edward II., stating they have sent their monks, Gilbert de Madeleye and John de Harleye, to pray for a conge d'elire. Dated in the Chapter House of Worcester, the 5th of the Ides of April. Reply to above from King Edward II., granting his conge d'elire as requested. Dated at Westminster, the 19th April, 10 Edward II.

Letter from the Prior and Chapter of Worcester to brother

[1] Second Sunday after Easter.

180 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Richard de Bromwych, precentor of Worcester. Whereas the lord Walter de Maydeneston, formerly Bishop of Worcester, died on 28 March last past [1], and his body buried as was becoming, and a conge d'elire having been asked for and obtained, they have fixed Monday, the morrow of Pentecost next to come, for the election of the future bishop and to transact all business touching the election, therefore the said precentor, to whose office it pertains according to the custom of the Church of Worcester, is ordered to cite all and singular the absent brothers and monks to appear at the Chapter House on the said Monday to transact the business touching the election.

Order to the Dean of K., to cite all those whose names are in a schedule annexed to appear before the prior or his vicegerent in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, on Saturday, the vigil of Holy Trinity, to answer certain things to be laid before them touching the cure of their souls. Dated at Worcester, the 11th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Certificate that Master R. de A. B., chaplain, appeared before the prior, and with faithful men purged himself of incontinence with Joan de la Pole, and also that he was not a common merchant, nor an usurer, nor a common drunkard, nor a homicide, nor a common brawler (pugnator), nor negligent in the visitation of the sick.

Letter from the Prior to the parish priest of Bredone, that whereas E., the wife of E. le T. of B., being absolved from the sentence of suspension, which she incurred on account of manifest contumacy before the said prior, and an oath being received from her to comply with the orders of the Church, the said priest is commanded to publish the same absolution. And the said priest and all whom it may concern are certified that the same E. has canonically purged herself from the report touching her adultery with W. de B. Dated at Worcester, the 10th of the Kalends of June.

Certificate that Master William de D., priest, purged himself from

[1] See ante, p. 177, the date of Bishop Maydistone's death is given as 7 April. Le Neve states that the news of his death reached England in April, so that the 28 March is probably the more correct date. Thomas gives 28th March for the death, and says the news reached the Worcester monks on the 7th April.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 181

the crime of common usury, and of the theft of a certain book found in his chamber, for the theft of which the same W., it is said, had fulminated the sentence of excommunication against the thief when he himself had seized and secretly detained the same, knowingly incurring thereby the same sentence; and of the theft of a silken case for keeping the body of our Lord in the church of Hanburi; and also of the crime of perjury, in not fulfilling an agreement between himself and R. M. about the altarages of the Church of Dederhulle; and of being wanting in faith (super fidei laesione) in not fulfilling a contract between himself and W. E. concerning a house of the same W.; and also of incontinence committed with Agnes B. of H. and Christina ate Stile of Wych, as it is said; and further, of a contract of marriage formerly made between him and a certain Sibilla R., of the county of Salop. Dated at Worcester, 1317.

[Fol. 100d] Certificate that John, son of Warin, rector of the Church of Upton Warin, who was called before the prior exercising the office of visitation in the diocese of Worcester, to show letters of his orders and institution to the same church, and to answer certain articles objected against him, that he, within a year from the time the rule of the same church was committed to him, had not caused himself to be promoted to priest's orders as he ought. Moreover it appears he did what he could to be so promoted within the said time, but that Walter, then Bishop of Worcester, was lawfully impeded, and so the same John was unable to be so promoted, and therefore ought not to be impeached of the same matter. Dated at Worcester, the 2nd of the Ides of May, 1317.

Certificate that Reginald de E., rector of the Church of H., juxta Wych, has sufficient title to his said church, and after his promotion to the same church to have received deacon's and priest's orders. Certificate that the Proctor of the Abbot and Convent of Lyra [l] showed by what title the same abbot and convent held their churches, tithes, portions, and pensions in the diocese of Worcester.

Certificate that the Abbot and Convent of St. Peter of Gloucester showed their title to their churches, portions, and pensions in the

[1] A Benedictine House in Normandy.

182 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

diocese of Worcester. Dated at Cirencester, the 16th of the Kalends of June.

[Fol. 101] Like Certificate for the Prior and Convent of Great Malvern. Dated the 14th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Certificate that Robert Pecokes, rector of the Church of Broctone Haketh, exhibited the letters of his orders, institution, and dispensation for non-residence.

Certificate that Peter de Monte Forti, rector of the Church of Ibnedone, received dispensation from Walter de Maydenestone, Bishop of Worcester, for non-residence and for not receiving further orders for three years.

Presentation by Edward II. of Master R. de C. [1] to the church of K., in the diocese of Worcester. Dated at Windsor, the 2 May 10 Edward II.

Letters of Inquisition upon the same presentation, addressed to the official of the Archdeacon of Worcester.

Letters of Institution of R. de D., presented to the church of H., by E. de H.

[Fol. 101d] Letters of Institution for W. de M., acolyte, to the church of St. N., of W.

Letters of Induction for Robert de D. to the church of H. Dated at Worcester, the 12th of the Kalends of May.

Letters of Institution for S. de Evesham, clerk, to the church of Stowa, at the presentation of the King by reason of the custody of the Abbey of Evesham [2].

Memorandum, that on the 12th of the Kalends of May, 1317, at the presentation of Edmund de Haggeleye, Robert de Dunclent, in minor orders, was instituted and inducted to the church of Haggeleye.

[1] Richard de Chaddesleye to Kempsey.
[2] On the death of the Abbot, John de Brochampton.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 183

Memorandum, that on the 7th of the Kalends of May, at the presentation of Robert de Solers of Schipton Champflour, Master Adam de Aston, chaplain, was instituted and inducted into the church of Schipton aforesaid.

Memorandum, that on the 6th of the Kalends of May, Thomas Ponge of Wythindon, chaplain, was admitted to a chantry which John de Southurste of Gloucester by his last will left and assigned for his soul and the souls of all the faithful dead.

Memorandum, that on the 3rd of the Kalends of May, John de Cymteus, chaplain, at the presentation of brother Thomas Brikebec, Prior of Brimesfeld, was instituted and inducted into the vicarage of Brimesfeld.

Memorandum, that on the 4th of the Nones of May, at the presentation of John Maltravers, John de Dodebrigge, in minor orders, was instituted and inducted into the church of Wodechestre. Memorandum, that on the 7th of the Ides of May, Master Richard de Chaddesleye, at the presentation of the King, was instituted and inducted into the church of Kemesey.

Memorandum, that on the 5th of the Ides of May, John le Porter, clerk, at the presentation of Richard le Porter was instituted into the church of Elmelode, and had letters of induction for the same to the official of the archdeacon of Worcester.

Memorandum, that on the 14th of the Kalends of June, Sir Giles de Holte, chaplain, at the presentation of Sir William, rector of the church of Holte, was instituted to the vicarage of Holte and had letters of induction to the official of the archdeacon of Worcester.

Memorandum, that on the 14th of the Kalends of June, Richard de Everdon, priest, was instituted to the church of Schenyndone, and had letters of induction for the same.

184 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Memorandum, that on the Ides of May, William Seeward, deacon, at the presentation of Sir William de Straci, Knight, was admitted to the chapel of the church of Doynton, and had letters of induction for the same.

Memorandum, that on the 11th of the Kalends of June, William de Frene, clerk, at the presentation of Ingram de Frene, was instituted into the church of the Blessed Mary of Wyttone next Wych, and had letters of induction and institution to the official of the archdeacon of Worcester.

Memorandum, that on the 4th of the Nones of June, Richard le Brun, deacon, at the presentation of the rector of Fladebury, by the nomination of Simon le Brun, at Wythindone, was instituted into the vicarage of Abbelench, and had letters of institution and induction to the official of the archdeacon of Worcester or the dean of Persore.

Letters dimissory for William Levering of Northlench, deacon, to be ordained to priest's orders by any Catholic bishop, notwithstanding he was born in the diocese of Worcester.

[Fol. 102] Like letters dimissory for Richard, called le Brun, of Belne. Dated at Worcester, the 12th of the Kalends of June.

Letters dimissory for Master Nicholas de Gore, dean of the collegiate church of Westbury, in the diocese of Worcester, subdeacon, to receive ordination from any Catholic bishop, notwithstanding he was beneficed in the diocese of Worcester. Dated the 2nd of the Ides of April.

Like letters dimissory for William de Frene, sub-deacon, for deacon's orders. Dated the loth of the Kalends of June.

Like letters for John Person of Stratford, deacon, for priest's orders. Dated as above.

Like letters for Master John de Walcote, rector of the church

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 185

of Wolvardeleye, deacon, for priest's orders. Dated 10th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Like letters for brothers John Pipe and Henry de Dudeleg', deacons, for priest's orders, and Robert de Evesham for deacon's orders. Dated the 9th of the Kalends of June.

Like letters for Adam le Sexteyn of St. John of Worcester, clerk, for acolyte's and sub-deacon's orders. Dated the 9th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Like letters for John de Coventr', canon of the church of St. Sepulchre of Warwick, for all holy orders. Dated as above.

Like letters for Master Simon de Schireford, rector of the church of Kenewarton, for deacon's orders. Dated the 8th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Like letters for Master Robert de Dunclent, rector of the church of Haggeleye, for acolyte's and sub-deacon's orders. Dated as above.

Like letters for John de Honesworthe, rector of the church of Clent, for sub-deacon's and deacon's orders. Dated as above.

Like letters for Robert de Marsfeld, deacon, for priest's orders. Dated as above.

Like letters for brother J. de C., canon of the church of St. Sepulchre of Warwick, to receive all holy orders from any catholic bishop of the province of Canterbury, notwithstanding he had taken the religious habit in the diocese of Worcester. Dated at Worcester, the 9th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Certificate that Adam de Abyndone of Wycheneford was ordained deacon by bishop Walter Maydenestone, late bishop of Worcester, on Saturday, quatuor temporum, on the feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, 1314, in the Cathedral Church of Worcester,

186 SEDE'VACANTE REGISTER.

and on the same day, 1316, was ordained priest by the same bishop in the church of Terdebigg. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Kalends of June.

Certificate that A. de B. was ordained to all holy orders.

Dispensation to Master William de Mees, rector of the church of Merton Bagod, in the diocese of Worcester, to be absent from his church from the feast of St. Barnabas the Apostle next, to the Nativity of our Lord following, for the purpose of a pilgrimage or other lawful matter; and in the mean time to receive the fruits of the same church, provided the church be properly served. Dated at Worcester, the 4th of the Kalends of June.

[Fol. 102d] Commission to Hugh de Comptone, warden of the church of Byburi, in the diocese of Worcester, chaplain, to hear the confessions of those of the diocese of Worcester wishing to confess their faults and to absolve them in due form, and enjoin salutary penance, the corruptors of nuns and cases in which pontifical dispensation is necessary only excepted.

Commission to R. de B., rector of the church of S., to seek, demand, and receive from any justices of the lord the king all clerks indicted of felony or suspected of other crimes.

Letters of absolution for John, son of John Denedelyoun of Stratford, clerk, of the diocese of Worcester, excommunicated for having irreverently and by impulse struck a certain clerk in minor orders, and drawn his blood in the church of Holy Trinity of Stratford, whereby the same church was for a long time interdicted, but was reconciled by John, bishop of Llandaff, at the prior's intervention.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the dean of Caumpedene, enjoining him to pronounce sentence of the greater excommunication upon those sons of iniquity who removed and concealed the tithes, oblations, profits, and other goods belonging to the church of Schenindene in the diocese of Worcester, and to inquire the names of such malefactors and cite them to appear before the Prior on

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 187

the second law-day after the feast of Holy Trinity in the Cathedral Church of Worcester, there to receive condign punishment for their sins and to answer certain articles touching the health of their souls. Dated at Worcester, the 14th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Citation of the dean of Stonhouse to appear before the Prior or his commissary on the next law-day after the Ascension of Our Lord, in the church of St. Nicholas of Gloucester, to make answer of those things which he received from the church of Wodechestr' for the time of the vacancy there by reason of sequestration.

Commission to A. de Alincester, rector of the church of St. Clement of Worcester, to proceed and bring to a due end the matter of the divorce between Adam Foliot and Isabella de Underwode. Dated at Worcester, the 5th of the Kalends of May, 1317 [1].

[Fol. 103] Mandate from Walter [2], archbishop of Canterbury, to the Prior of Worcester to cite brother Arnald de London, Sir Thomas de Mardeston, Alexander de Bokelond, and Masters Gilbert de Kyrkebi, Richard de Clare, Richard de Chaddesley, John de Collam, and Sir John de Hastinges, executors of the will of W., former bishop of Worcester [3], who died in parts beyond the sea, to appear before the archbishop on the next law-day after the feast of Holy Trinity to prove the said will and undertake the administration of the goods belonging to it. Dated at Lamehithe, the 4th of the Nones of May, 1317.

Mandate from Walter, archbishop of Canterbury, to the Prior of Worcester to cite Masters Richard de Clare, Richard de Chaddesleye, and John Collam, who by authority of W., late bishop of Worcester, received the goods of the same and have administered them, as it is reported, to appear before the archbishop on the sixth law-day after the feast of Holy Trinity, to give answer touching the administration of such goods. And that the goods of the said deceased may be faithfully preserved for his soul, as is becoming, the same Prior is ordered to sequester all the goods of the said deceased at the time of his departure, and to keep them safely in a chest so that no one may lay hands on them, until the Prior

[1] post, p. 190.
[2] Walter Reynolds.
[3] Walter de Maidstone.

188 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

has further commands; and that he take an inventory of the same goods. Dated at Lamheth, the 13th of the Kalends of June, 1317.

Memorandum that on the 5th of the Ides of May, Thomas de Flore, rector of the church of North Pidele, obtained the order of priesthood.

Memorandum, that on the 4th of the Ides of May, Master John de Stratforde, rector of the church of the same place, obtained letters dimissory for sub-deacon's orders.

Memorandum, that on the 14th of the Kalends of June, Thomas de la Grave, rector of the church of St. Werburg of Bristol, obtained letters dimissory for sub-deacon's orders.

Memorandum, that on the same date, Robert de Borontone, rector of the church of Northcerneye, obtained letters dimissory for deacon's orders.

Memorandum, that there were delivered letters dimissory to the monks of the monastery of St. Peter of Gloucester, to wit, to Adam de Potteleye, Stephen de Asch, Richard de Monemuta, William de Bernewode, Walter de Wortone, and Walter de Chaddeleye, under date the 2nd of the Ides of May, 1317.

Memorandum, that Thomas de Schirebourne, rector of the church of Risindone Magna, had letters dimissory for deacon's and priest's orders, under date the 2nd of the Ides of May.

Memorandum, that on the 2nd of the Ides of May, at Gloucester, letters dimissory were delivered to certain brothers of the Abbey of Kingeswode, to wit, William de Brekeneberg to the order of subdeacon ; William de Nubbeleye and Walter de Tresham to priest's orders; Richard de Bradeleye, Richard de Froncestr', and Thomas de Sobburi to deacon's orders; and Richard de Charefeld to deacon's orders.

[Fol. 103d] Letters of absolution for Master John de Thoky, abbot of the monastery of St. Peter of Gloucester, who upon visitation was

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 189

found to have transgressed certain rules, and especially the injunctions or statutes of Robert [1], formerly Archbishop of Canterbury. Dated at Gloucester, the 2nd of the Ides of Gloucester, 1317.

[Fol. 104] Writ of venire facias to the keeper of the spiritualities of Worcester for Walter de Cantilupo and Gilbert Betoun, clerks, to answer Nicholas de Insula for having with force and arms taken the same Nicholas at Snytesfeld, and imprisoned and ill-treated him, his goods and chattels to the value of 10li. taken away. Dated at Westminster, the 23rd day of April, 10 Edward II. Answer on the back of the writ that the same Walter and Gilbert were enjoined to appear. Memorandum, that the said writ was received on the nth of the Kalends of June.

Like writ for the appearance of Simon de Walepol and John Bloyon, clerks, to answer the Prior of Worcester of a plea of debt. Dated at Westminster, the 15th May, 10 Edward II. The said Simon and John enjoined to appear.

Like writ for the appearance of "Byndus" de Bandenell, parson of the church of Haleford, clerk, to answer John Dalbyng, the younger, citizen of London, of a plea of debt. Dated at Westminster, the 16th of May, 10 Edward II. Byndus enjoined to appear.

Like writ for the appearance of Richard de Sancto Albano, parson of the church of Calstekoumbe (sic), clerk, to answer Robert de Bardelby, of a plea of debt. Dated at Westminster, the 10th May, 10 Edward II. And it is answered that the said Richard is neither beneficed nor to be found in this diocese.

Writ from the King to the keeper of the spiritualities of Worcester, to destrain Gilbert, brother of Robert de Kingstone, a clerk, having no lay fee, together with the tenants of the lands and tenements which belonged to the same Robert, to appear before the barons of the Exchequer, to show cause wherefore they should not pay 20 marks, which the same Robert and Gilbert acknowledged themselves in, 21 Edward I., to owe to Peter de Leycestr' and his fellows, executors of the will of Master W. de Montefort, formerly

[1] Robert Kilwardly, 1273-1279.

190 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

dean of St. Paul's, and which ought to have been paid at the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, but is not yet paid, as it is stated by John Baldok, one of the executors of the will of the said Master W. Dated at Westminster, the 18th of May, 10 Edward II.

[Fol. 104d] Writ from the King to the keeper of the spiritualities of Worcester, that whereas Joan, who was the wife of Robert de Sherteleye, sought in the King's court at Westminster against William de Oudeby and Margery his wife, a third part of a messuage and virgate of land in Artherestone upon Stoure, as her dower, and the same William and Margery pleaded that the same Joan was never joined in lawful matrimony with the aforesaid Robert, that the said keeper inquire touching the same, as it is an ecclesiastical matter. Dated at Wesminster, the 12th of May, 10 Edward II.

Memorandum, that the Prior of Worcester visited the church of Dydebrok in 1317 and there received 4 marks.

[Fol. 105] Certificate by the Dean of Pershore to the sub-Prior of Worcester by authority of the court of Canterbury official and administrator of the spiritualities in the city and diocese of Worcester, the See being vacant, the Prior of the same church being canonically elected into the bishopric, that in accordance with the sub-Prior's command stating that he intended to make visitation in the deanery of Pershore on Monday after the feast of St. Michael in the church of St. Andrew of Pershore, he has cited all abbots, priors, abbesses, prioresses, preceptors, masters, portioners, pensioners, and others. Dated at Perschor, the 5th of the Nones of October, 1327 [l].

[Fol. 105d] Proceedings in the Collegiate Church of the Blessed Mary of Warwick on Friday after the feast of Holy Trinity, 1317,

[1] This should follow the next entry. It is the only entry during the vacancy on the death of Thomas Cobham in 1327, till the see was filled by the election of Adam de Orleton. This vacancy lasted from 27 Aug., 1327, to 29 June, 1328. There is no entry on the register during the vacancies caused by the translation of Orleton to Winchester, 1 Dec., 1333, and the enthronement of Simon de Montacute in 1334, the vacancy on the translation of Montacute to Ely in 1337, and the enthronement of Thomas Heminghale in the same year, nor on the vacancy on the death of Heminghale, 1328, and the appointment of Wolstan de Bransford in 1329, nor on the vacancy on the death of Bransford in 1349 and the translation of John de Thoresby from St. David's.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 191

before Richard Bachiler of Warwick, clerk, commissary of the Prior, in the matter of the divorce which was before the president of the consistory of Worcester, between Adam Foliot, plaintiff, and Isabella de Underwode, who commonly caused herself to be called Sibilla, who at first appeared personally but afterwards contumaciously retired, defendant. And the defendant being asked if she had anything to say or propose wherefore sentence should not proceed in the same cause, she publicly asserted that she neither knew or wished to say or propose nor to intermeddle in the same cause in any wise. Whereupon, the grace of the Holy Spirit being invoked, the said commissary proceeded to pronounce sentence, that the said Adam Foliot had sufficiently proved his case, and the defendant had offered no defence, and that the marriage between the same parties was only a contract and was void, vain, and of no account. And further it was propounded by the proctor of the same Adam that although the aforesaid Adam and Isabella might have contracted matrimony, yet that matrimony could not nor ought of right to be de facto a contract, because William, brother of the said Adam, before any contract of marriage between them, carnally knew the same Isabella, as was notorious.

[Fol. 106] REGISTER OF BROTHER JOHN DE EVESHAM, Prior of Worcester [1] of those things which were done during the vacancy of the See by the translation of John de Thoresby, late bishop of Worcester, to the Archbishopric of York, 1352.

Commission by the Archbishop of Canterbury to the Prior of Worcester to exercise episcopal jurisdiction during the vacancy of the See of Worcester in accordance with the composition between the predecessor of the Archbishop and the Prior and Chapter of Worcester. Dated at Lambeth, the 14th of the Kalends of March, 1352.

[Fol. 106d] Mandate by the Prior of Worcester to Hugh, rector of the church of Podmor in the diocese of Worcester, to cite Katherine, relict of Philip de Litteleye, deceased, to appear before the Prior or his commissary in the Cathedral Church of Worcester on a certain law-day to be appointed by Robert de Dunclent, rector

[1] Evesham was Prior of Worcester from 1340 to 1370.

192 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

of the church of Oldesweneford, to answer touching the matter of a mortuary.

Appointment of Henry Botiler, citizen of Worcester, to the office of apparitor in the deanery of Bristol. Dated at Worcester, 23 January, 1352[-3].

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Archdeacon of Gloucester stating his intention to visit the clergy and people of the deanery of Gloucester in the church of St. Nicholas there, on Friday after the feast of St. Valentine; the clergy and people of the deanery of Wynchcomb in the church of Cheltenham, on Saturday then following; the clergy and people of the deanery of Cirencester in the church of Barndesleye, on Tuesday then next following; the clergy and people of the deanery of Fairford, on the Wednesday then next following; the clergy and people of the deanery of Stonhous in the church of Chirynton, on the Thursday then next following; the clergy and people of the deanery of Durseleye in the church of Wotton under Egge, on Saturday after the feast of St. Peter in Cathedra; and the clergy and people of the deanery of Bristol in the church of St. Augustine the Less there, on the Tuesday then next following.

[Fol. 107] Process upon the election of Brother William Cok, elected into the abbey of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, by the Prior and Convent of the same place, and confirmed by the Prior of Worcester, the See being vacant, A.D. 1353.

Letter from Phillippa, Queen of England, Lady of Ireland and Duchess of Aquitaine, to the Prior of Worcester, keeper of the Spiritualities of the Bishopric of Worcester, the See being vacant, giving her consent to the election of brother William Cok as abbot and pastor of St. Augustine's of Bristol, who was presented to her by Simon de Thormerton, canon and the convent of the same house. Dated at Westminster, 20 March, 1352[-3].

Appointment of brother Richard Martyn, canon of St. Augustine of Bristol, proctor of the Prior and Convent of regular canons of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, touching the matters relating to the election of brother William Cok, abbot of the same

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monastery. Dated in the Chapter - house, the 15th of March, 1352[-3].

Appointment of brother Simon de Tormerton, canon, Master Robert de Nettelton, clerk, and John Athelman, of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, as proctors of the Prior and Convent of the same place, to prosecute the confirmation of the election aforesaid. Dated at Bristol, the 4th of the Kalends of April, 1353.

Decree by Walter de Schaftesbury, prior of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol and the regular canons of the same place, to wit, brothers Thomas de Bykenore, Robert Dunsterre, Simon de Tormerton, Robert Syde, John de Lammer, Richard Martyn, John Badmynton, Walter Cheltenham, Laurence de Cirencestre, John Suyte, John de Launston, Walter Ragun, Adam Horseleye, John Goldeneye, and John Strete. Lest by default of a shepherd the rapacious wolf should invade the flock of the Lord the compilers of the Canons ordained that regular monasteries should not be vacant more than three months; hence it is that on 1 March, 1352 [-3], Ralph de Assche, the last abbot of the aforesaid monastery, having entered the way of all flesh, and his body being decently buried, and licence to elect being obtained from Phillippa, Queen of England, their patron, the 15th of March was by the same Prior and Convent assigned for the election of an abbot, in the chapterhouse before which day the Mass of the Holy Spirit being celebrated at daylight at the high altar of the said monastery, and thence all those who ought to be at the election coming together in the chapter-house, to wit, Walter de Schaftesbury, the prior, and William, the sub-prior, and the rest of the canons, and the Prior warned all excommunicated, suspended, and interdicted persons, and others who ought not to be present to retire, and the letter of Queen Phillippa was read. Whereupon three faithful persons of the College, to wit, brothers Thomas de Bykenore, Robert Sute, and William de Cheltenham were appointed scrutators to inquire the votes of all secretly and singly, and reduce the same to writing; but first the said Robert and Walter took the vote of the said Thomas, the said Thomas and Walter took the vote of the said Robert, and the said Thomas and Robert the vote of the said Walter. And the same scrutators then withdrawing to a corner

194 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

of the chapter-house together with a notary and witnesses inquired the votes of each one. And afterwards they published the said scrutiny, by which it appeared that nine of the monastery had voted for William Cok, and the remaining eight for divers others. At the command of the same Prior, Robert de Syde, precentor of the same monastery, published the said election of William Cok, the sub-prior, as abbot of the aforesaid monastery. Whereupon, all having approved of the election, they raised the said William in their hands from the ground and carried him to the high altar, singing Te Deum laudamus, and laid him upon the same altar, as is the custom. And immediately after, the said brother Robert de Syde published the election in English to the clergy and people. On the morrow, to wit, the 16th of the said month, about the third hour the process of the election was presented to the elect by brother Richard Martyn, monk and proctor of St. Augustine, humbly asking his consent to the same election, and the same elect asserted his desire to see the same process, and after the ninth hour of the same day the said proctor again requested the same elect, who thereupon gave his consent. Dated in the Chapter-house of Bristol, the 17 March, 1352.

[Fol. 108] Notarial certificate to above by Ralph de Daventre, clerk of the diocese of Lincoln, notary public.

Commission from the Prior of Worcester to Master R. de Nettelton to examine witnesses touching the election of brother William Cok, abbot of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Kalends of April, 1353.

Certificate of R. de Nettelton that he has examined many witnesses according to the articles handed to him, which examinations he transmits. Dated at Worcester, the 1st of April.

Examination of witnesses touching the matter of the election made in the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, in the diocese of Worcester, of brother William Cok, made by Robert de Nettelton, clerk, by authority of the Prior of Worcester, on the third of the Kalends of April, 1353, upon the articles underwritten.

The proctor intends to prove the within written articles concerning the election of William Cok, as abbot of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol.

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1. The proctor of the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine of Bristol intends to prove that the same monastery and the Prior and Convent of the same, were, from a time whereof the memory of man runneth not, accustomed to be ruled and governed by an abbot, being a regular canon of their order, as principal prelate of the same monastery.

2. That Ralph de Assche was the last immediate abbot, and was to the first of the present month of March publicly held, reputed, and bore himself as chief of the same monastery.

3. That the said Ralph, abbot of the said monastery, died on the first day of March last past.

4. That his body was buried within two days following.

5. That the lady Phillippa, the Queen, was and is patron of the said monastery and in possession of the priory, and that from her licence to elect an abbot had to be asked.

[Fol. 108d] 6. That afterwards, Friday after the feast of St. Gregory the Pope, was assigned by the Prior and Convent for the election of a future abbot in the chapter-house.

7. That on the same Friday, to wit, the I5th of March, brother William Cok, a regular canon of the same monastery, was elected abbot.

8. That he alone was then there elected.

9. That the same elect then was and is a free and lawful man, and begotten in lawful matrimony.

10. That the father and mother of the said Elect were publicly held and reputed, at the time of his birth and conception, to be man and wife.

11. That the same brother William was, at the time of his election, of the age of thirty years and more, and for such he was held and reputed.

12. That he then and long before was and as yet is in priest's orders, and also in other lower orders.

13. That he then and long before was and now is professed in the rule of St. Augustine and in the order of regular canons in the said monastery.

14. That he, at the time of his election and long before was and as yet is of good life and honest conversation, not suspected of any crime.

15. That the same elect, on the day following his election, was

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by brother Richard Martyn, proctor on behalf of the said Prior and Convent, humbly asked whether he would consent to the election, and was handed the process of the same election.

16. That the said elect received the said process and answered that he was willing to consent.

17. That the same elect on the same day, long after being again asked by the aforesaid proctor, in a certain form gave his consent.

Examination of Witnesses. 1. Brother Walter de Shaftebury, Prior of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol in the diocese of Worcester, of the age of 60 years and more, sworn and examined. Upon the first article he said that it contained the truth because he saw it so done and observed; and he had known the said monastery for 50 years last past, and heard from his elders it was so before observed, and never otherwise from time immemorial, nor did he see in his time, nor did he see or hear or know any one in his time who saw or heard the contrary.

As to the second, third, and fourth articles they contained the truth. Also as to the fifth article he said that it contained the truth to his own observation and knowledge, by reason of the town of Bristol with the Abbey for a long time pertained to her by grant of the King. As to the sixth, seventh, and eighth articles, he said, that they contained the truth, and this he said he knew to be so, because he was present and saw all things in the said articles done. He also stated that the twelfth, thirteenth, eighteenth, nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first [1] articles were true.

Brother Thomas Bykenore, of the age of 40 years and more, said that he could only depose as to twenty-five years, whereas the Prior deposed as to fifty years.

Brother Robert de Syde deposed that the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth articles were true, because he was proctor in the matters referred to in the said articles, and that he asked the aforesaid elect under this form of words, in writing.

"I, brother Richard Martyn, proctor of the religious men the Prior and Convent of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, in the diocese of Worcester, require that you, in the place and name of me and of the Prior and Convent will deign to give your consent to the election of you by

[1] Articles eighteen to twenty-one do not appear.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 197

the same Prior and Convent, as Abbot of the said monastery". And the said elect consented, as is expressed in the seventeenth article. Brother Robert de Dunstare sworn and examined, deposed as brother Robert de Syde.

William Hail, burgess of Bristol, of the age of 40 years and more, deposed that he knew the ninth, tenth, and eleventh articles to be true, because he knew all the time of his discretion that the father and mother of the same elect, at the time of his birth and conception, before and after, bore themselves as man and wife, and for such were reputed in the town of Bristol; and as to this he swore that from his infancy he was the fellow and companion of the said elect at school and elsewhere, and by this he well knew his age.

John atte Heyhorne, of Bristol, sworn and examined, deposed as the said William Hayl, except that he did not depose as to the companionship with the said elect at school, and elsewhere only for eighteen years past.

Sir John de Beuchomp of Bristol, as to the ninth, tenth, and eleventh articles deposed as the aforesaid W. Hayl.

Brother Simon de Sormerton, of the age of 30 years and more, to the second and third articles deposed that he saw and knew the said Ranulph, the last abbot, to have been publicly and notoriously reputed as such to the day in the second article given; and on that day the first of the month of March about the ninth hour, he saw him dying, and immediately after wholly dead, and two days after he saw him buried.

[Fol. 109] William Capel, sixty years of age and more, as to the first article, deposed like Walter de Shaftbur', except that he only deposed as to 40 years, and as to the second and third articles he agreed with brother Simon, previously examined. He also said that in the said monastery, on the aforesaid day of election and long before and after, and as yet there are only regular canons and they are all professed on the rule and order instituted in the said monastery, and are in holy orders, namely, brothers Walter de Shaftbury, prior, William Cok, then sub-prior, Thomas de Bykenore, Robert de Dunsterr, Simon de Tornereton, John de Lanneer, Robert de Syde, Richard Martyn, chamberlain, John de Badmynton, Walter de Cheltenham, Laurence de Cirencestr', John Suyte, John de Lanston, Walter Ragun, Adam de Horseleye, priests, John de

198 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Goldeneye and John de Strete, sub-deacons, and that the same canonically form the full convent of the said monastery. And to the same and no others belongs the business of the said election. And that Ralph de Daventre was admitted to the said election as a notary, and he was publicly reputed for a notary public by apostolic authority, and that all the seals in the matter of the present election were shown to him.

Mandate from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Bristol to go to the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, and to cite any co-elect or opposer, if any there be, to the election of William Cok as abbot of the said monastery. Dated at Worcester, the 8th of the Kalends of April, 1353.

Certificate of the Dean of Bristol that he went to the said monastery, according to the above order, and found there no opposer or co-elect. Dated at Bristol, the 4th of the Kalends of April, 1353.

Petition of the proctor of the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine of Bristol for the confirmation of the election of William Cok, as abbot of the same monastery.

Dimnitive sentence by the Prior of Worcester confirming the same election.

[Fol. 109d] Commission by the Prior of Worcester to the Prior of St. James of Bristol, to induct the same William Cok into corporal possession of the said monastery, and to install him in the abbot's stall of the said monastery. Dated at Worcester, the 8th April, 1353.

Licence by the Prior of Worcester to John Cok, Elect of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol, to receive the gift of benediction from any catholic bishop of the Apostolic See, notwithstanding the said monastery is in the diocese of Worcester.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to Phillippa, the Queen, requesting her to confirm the said election. Dated at Worcester, the 2nd April, 1353.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 199

Letters of confirmation by J. de Evesham, Prior of the Cathedral Church of Worcester, of the election of William Cok, abbot of the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol. Dated at Worcester, the 8th April, 1353.

[Fol. 110] Institution of clerks, the see of Worcester being vacant, by the translation of the venerable father John de Thoresby to the bishopric of the church of York, 1352.

William de la Grene, chaplain, presented by Alienora, lady of Sudeleye, to the church of Belne Brocton, vacant by the resignation of one, Roger, the last rector, inquisition being before made by the office of the archdeacon of Worcester, by which, etc., and he was admitted to the said church on 14 Feb., 1352, and was canonically instituted as rector, and swore canonical obedience in the form accustomed.

William de Ombresleye, priest, presented by the King to the vicarage of the church of Presteleye, vacant by the resignation of Master Nicholas de Ludelowe, the last vicar, etc., as above, and he was admitted on 7 March, in the aforesaid year, and swore to minister and continually to reside in the same, according to the constitution of the lord Ottobon.

William Ketelbern, priest, presented by the Prior and Chapter of the Cathedral Church of Worcester to the vicarage of the church of Wolvardeleye, vacant by the resignation of Roger the last vicar, etc., as above.

Richard de Hyndelep, priest, presented by the Prior and Chapter of Worcester to the vicarage of Tyberton, vacant because one, John, the last instituted into the same, left that vicarage desolate for a year and more, therefore he was lawfully deprived by a competent judge. And the said Richard was admitted to the same on 5 March, in the aforesaid year.

Walter Assch, priest, presented by the Prior and Convent of St. Augustine of Bristol to the vicarage of the church of St. Nicholas of Bristol, vacant by the death of William de Torinton, in

200 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

quisition being first made by office of the archdeacon of Gloucester, by which, etc., and he was admitted to the said vicarage on the 33rd (sic) day of March in the aforesaid year.

Master John de Brien, presented by the King to the prebend of Goderynghull, in the collegiate church of Westbury, vacant by the death of Master John, and in the gift of the King, by reason of the bishopric of Worcester being in his hands, inquisition being made by office of the Archdeacon of Gloucester, by which, etc., and he was admitted to the said prebend in the name of John Tirry of Brynton, his proctor, on 4th April, 1353.

Robert de Clipston, clerk, presented by Walter Bodenham of Little Wormynton to the church of Little Wormynton, vacant by the resignation of Gilbert de Compton, the last rector, etc., and he was admitted on 8th April, 1352 (sic).

Robert Lonekyn of Adelmynton, priest, presented by Thomas Brok, rector of the church of Brodebrok, to the vicarage of the church of Brodebrok, vacant by the resignation of William de Alyncestr', the last vicar of the same. And he was admitted on 8th February, 1352[-3].

Letter from King Edward III. to the keeper of the Spiritualities of Worcester, that whereas Master John de Severleye, archdeacon of Worcester in the diocese of Worcester, and John de Harewell, parson of the church of Bucstede in the diocese of Chichester, intend to exchange their benefices, the same archdeaconry being vacant and in the king's hands, by reason of the said exchange, the king has determined to confer it upon the same John de Harewell, and therefore commands the said keeper to admit the same John to the same. Dated at Westminster, 20th February, 27 Edward III.

[Fol. 110d] Commission by Simon [1], archbishop of Canterbury, to the Prior of Worcester, that whereas Master John de Harewell, rector of the church of Bucstede, and John de Severleye, archdeacon of Worcester, as is asserted, intend to exchange their benefices, the archbishop commands the said Prior to examine into the causes of the said exchange, and if they be lawful, to approve

[1] Simon Meopham, 1328-1333.

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the resignation of the said rector, and admit the said Master John de Severley to the church of Bokstede, and do whatever else is necessary. He is also to induct the said master John de Severleye into the corporal possession of the same church, and to receive his canonical obedience for the dean of the collegiate church of South Mallyng. Dated at Otteford, the 12th of the Kalends of March, 1352.

Certificate that it appears by the testimony of faithful persons and by certain deeds that William Was, of Shraweleye, held in the manor of Shraweleye one virgate and a quarter of arable land, and that he received from the Prior, Prioress, and Canons of Westwode, every week for his life, the moiety of one measure of good, pure, and well winnowed corn.

Letters dimissory for priest's orders for John Wittles, Thomas de Lecbury, Thomas de Mershton, Nicholas de Cherleton, brother Henry de Lawern, and John Petlyng.

Letters dimissory for the order of sub-deacon for John Petlyng. Letters dimissory for all holy orders for John de Kekyngeswyk and John de Aston.

Letters dimissory for minor orders and sub-deacon's orders for John Reygnald of Seggesbergh, John Hondy, canon of Doddeford, William Whas of Sraweleye, and William Turfray.

Letters dimissory for minor orders for William Prime.

Letters dimissory for deacon's and priest's orders for John Strete, canon of Bristol, Walter Heynes, Richard de Wasseburne and John Petlyng.

Letters dimissory for minor and all holy orders for Gilbert de Wassebourne and Nicholas de Wassebourne.

[Fol. 111] Visitation made in the Archdeaconry of Gloucester, in the time of the vacancy of the See of Worcester, 1352. Master Henry de Newebold, clerk, and brother John de Leomenstr', precentor, commissaries of the Prior of Worcester, visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Gloucester in the church of St. John of the same place on Friday after the feast of St. Valentine.

202 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

The same commissaries visited the deanery of Wynchcomb, in the church of Cheltenham, on Saturday following.

The same commissaries visited the monastery of Cirencestr' on Monday following.

The same commissaries visited the deanery of Cirencestr' on Tuesday following, in the church of Brandeslye.

The same visited the deanery of Fairford in the church of Fairford, on Wednesday following.

They visited the deanery of Stonhous on Thursday following, in the church of Shirynton.

Saturday, the morrow of St. Peter in cathedra, they visited the deanery of Dersleye, in the church of Wotton under Egge.

On Monday, the morrow of St. Matthew the Apostle, they visited the deaneries of Haukesbury and Button', in the chapel of Market Sobbury.

On Tuesday following, they visited the deanery of Bristol, in the church of the Blessed Augustine the Less of Bristol.

On Wednesday following, they visited the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol.

On Thursday following, they visited the House of St. Mark and the priory of St. James of the same place.

Letter from Simon, Archbishop of Canterbury, to the Prior of Worcester. Whereas by apostolic letters shown to the same archbishop it appears that Pope Clement VI. had in the plentitude of his power translated Reginald, formerly Bishop of St. David's [1] to the church of Worcester, the same archbishop orders the said prior to deliver up to the same bishop the spiritualities in the city and diocese of Worcester, and to freely permit him to use and exercise them, and to deliver to him the registers, seals, and other things whatsoever belonging to the spiritualities of the said city and diocese. Dated at Lamheth, the 7th of the Ides of April, 1353.

[Fol. 111d] REGISTER OF THOSE things which were done in the bishopric of Worcester, the See being vacant after the death

[1] Reginald Bryan, Bishop of St. David's, 1350 1353. The second successive Bishop of St. David's translated to Worcester.

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of the lord Reginald Bryan, the late bishop, from 10 December, 1361, to 10 March, 1361-2.

Conge d'elire to the Prior and Convent of Worcester. Dated at Westminster, 14 December, 35 Edward III.

Revocation of the said conge d'elire, because it appears by letters from the Apostolic See that the said Reginald had been translated in his lifetime to the bishopric of Ely [l], and Master John de Barnet elected and confirmed by the same Apostolic See to the bishopric of Worcester [2].

INSTITUTIONS.

Institution of William Houtelowe, priest, presented by the king, the bishopric of Hereford being vacant [3], to the prebend of the church of Inteberwe. And he was admitted to the same on 12 December, 1361.

Institution of William Wygot, priest, presented by Sir John Tracy, knight, to the free chapel of Doynton. And he was admitted to the same on 9 December, 1361.

Institution of William Bysschelin, priest, presented to the hospital of St. Oswald of Worcester by the sacristan of the cathedral church of Worcester. And he was admitted to the same on 15 December, 1361.

Institution of John Smult, priest, presented by John Kekyngwych to the church of Kekyngwych, the 10th of the Kalends of December.

Institution of Robert Bannebur', priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Evesham to the church of Olleberge. And he was admitted and instituted to the same on 18 December.

[Fol. 112] Institution of John Smyth of Eton, priest, presented

[1] Pope Innocent VI. translated Bryan to Ely, but the Bishop died of the Plague at Alvechurch before accepting the new Bishopric. At the time of Bryan's translation the Pope appointed Barnet Bishop of Worcester, so there was no real vacancy.
[2] Printed in Thomas' Survey, App. p. 120.
[3] By the death of Bishop Trilleck in 1360.

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by the Prior and Convent of Great Malvern to the church of Estlech St. Martin. And he was admitted to the same on 16 December, 1361. John Ward, priest, presented by brother Robert de Dycleston, preceptor of the hospital of St. W[olstan] of Worcester and the convent of the same place, to the vicarage of Croul. And he was admitted to the same on 17 December.

Institution of John Herwykes, priest, presented by Thomas de Kynemarton, rector of the church of Clinel' Castle, to the vicarage of the church of Clinel. And he was admitted to the same on 17 December.

Institution of William de Braddewey, priest, presented by the Prior and Convent of the monastery of Kenylworth to the vicarage of the church of Brayles. And he was admitted to the same on 13 December.

Institution of Thomas Drydson, priest, presented by William de Peyto, general attorney of Ralph, Earl of Stafford, to the church of Roudecombe. And he was admitted to the same on 22 December.

Institution of Thomas Boghes, priest, presented by Hugh de Wrymundeswold, preceptor of the cathedral church of York, to the church of Otyndon, and he was admitted to the same on 20 December.

Institution of Thomas Tchuffeleye, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Oseneye to the vicarage of the church of Torkod' [1]. And he was admitted to the same on 18 December.

Institution of Thomas Andrew, priest, presented by Nicholas Iford, rector of the church of Olveston, to the chapel of Tokynton. And he was admitted to the same on 20 December.

Institution of Roger Larke, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of the monastery of St. Peter of Gloucester to the vicarage of Erlyngham. And he was admitted to the same on 22 December.

[1] In margin in late hand is Torkedene.

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Institution of Roger atte Churche, priest, presented by John Lucy, lord of Cotes, to the church of Cotes. And he was admitted to the same on 20 December, 1361.

Institution of Henry de Kynewarton, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Evesham to the church of Morton. And he was admitted to the same on 5 January.

Institution of Robert Hals, priest, presented by the Prior of Little Malvern to the vicarage of Eldersfeld. And he was admitted to the same on 9 January.

Institution of Robert atte Sloo, priest, presented by Ralph, bishop of Bath and Wells, to the church of Pokelchurch. And he was admitted to the same on 10 January.

Institution of Alan de Vyse, priest, presented by Sir William Trossell of Cubblesdon, knight, to the church of Billesleye. And he was admitted to the same on 15 January.

Institution of John Notte, priest, presented by Thomas de Bello Campo [1], Earl of Warwick, lord of Gower and Marshal of England, to the church of Lench Rooulf. And he was admitted to the same on 8 January.

[Fol. 112d] Institution of Robert Wattes of Ekynton, priest, presented by the King to the vicarage of the church of Hembury Saltmersh. And he was admitted to the same on 2 January.

Institution of William le Whyte of Elmel' sub Castro, deacon, presented by Thomas de Bello Campo, Earl of Warwick, to the church of Cromb Symond. And he was admitted to the same on 8 January.

Institution of William de Borwthton', priest, presented by the abbot and convent of Theoukesbur' to the church of SS. Philip and James of Bristol. And he was admitted to the same on 3 January.

[1] Thomas Beauchamp, 3rd Earl, d. 1369.

206 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Institution of Robert Bolde, priest, presented by Roger Golafre, lord of Nafford, to the church of Nafford. And he was admitted to the same on 24 January, 1361.

Institution of John Derlyng, priest, presented by the prioress and convent of Cokhull to the vicarage of the church of Byshampton. And he was admitted to the same on 20 January.

Institution of Richard de Evenelod, presented by Peter de Evenelod, his brother, to the church of Evenelod. And he was admitted to the same on 19 January.

Institution of John Lovekok, of Aston upon Car', presented by the abbot and convent of Theukes' to the church of S. John of Bristol. And he was admitted to the same on 20 January.

Institution of Henry Wodeward, priest, presented by John de Berkeley, lord of Clynelod, to the chapel of Clynl'. And he was admitted to the same on 18 January.

Institution of Henry de Copenhal, priest, presented by Sir William Trussel of Cubblesdon', knight, to the church of Morton Bagot. And he was admitted to the same on 15 January.

Institution of Simon de Pylardynton, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Teukesbury to the church of Atheston. And he was admitted to the same on 6 January.

Institution of Reginald Dodd, priest, presented by Thomas de Bello Campo, Earl of Warwick, lord of Gower and Marshal of England, to the house of the hospital of St. Michael of Warwick. And he was admitted to the same on 7 January.

Institution of Geoffrey Herberd, priest, presented by Richard de Ruyhal, lord of Morton Brut, to the church of Morton Brut. And he was admitted to the same on 3 January.

Institution of Peter de Bradewey, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Hayles to the rectory of the church of Pynnuchyr. And he was admitted to the same on 25 February.

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Institution of Richard Batyn, priest, presented by William de Stonore, lord of Condicote, to the church of Condicote. And he was admitted to the same on 5 February, 1361.

Institution of Philip Reome, priest, presented by John de Fulton, lord of the same place next Bristol, to the parish church of Fulton. And he was admitted to the same on 5 February.

[Fol. 113] Institution of Thomas Proud, priest, presented by Thomas Toky and Joan Toky of Kyngton, to the church of Tokyngton. And he was admitted to the same on 6 February,

Institution of Thomas de Montgomery, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent' of St. Peter of Gloucester to the chapel of Mattesden. And he was admitted to the same on 2nd of February.

Institution of John Laurens, priest, presented by Lucy Bartram, lady of Schelne, to the chapel of Schelne annexed to the church of Hambury. And he was admitted to the same on 4 February.

Institution of John Swynley, priest, presented by the King to the prebend which Master Richard Somerton had in the collegiate church of Westbury. And he was admitted to the same on 11 February.

Institution of William Harpur, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of St. Peter of Gloucester to the church of Dodyngton. And he was admitted to the same on 4 February.

Institution of Henry Torald, priest, presented by brother John Paveley, prior of the hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England, to the vicarage of the church of Southrop. And he was admitted to the same on 8 February.

Institution of Master Richard de Elyndon, priest, presented by the warden of the house of scholars of Merton in Oxford and the brothers of the same house to the church of Lapvvorth. And he was admitted to the same on 6 February.

208 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Institution of Simon de Collewell, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Teukesbury to the church of St. Michael of Bristol. And he was admitted to the same on 15 February, 1361.

Institution of John Wykengeston, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Westminster to the church of Sutton. And he was admitted to the same on 23 February.

Institution of John Kynesham, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Malmesbury to the church of Litelton. And he was admitted to the same on 15 February.

Institution of John Ball, priest, presented by Lord Maurice de Berkel' to the chapel of Compton. And he was admitted to the same on 12 February.

Institution of Stephen Slougthre, priest, presented by Maurice, lord of Berkeley, to the chapel of Cambrugge. And he was admitted to the same on 15 February.

Institution of William in the Lane, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Walden to the vicarage of the church of Great Compton. And he was admitted to the same on 19 February.

Institution of William Marchal, clerk, presented by Richard Baskervyle, son of Richard Baskervyle, to the church of Coumbe Baskervyle. And he was admitted on 26 February.

Admission and institution of brother William de Atrio, monk professed in the monastery of St. Taurinus of Evreux, of the Benedictine order presented by brother John Bomet, monk of the monastery of St. Taurinus, having power from brother Robert de Masucag', Claustral, prior (prior claustra [1]) of the said monastery to the priory of Asteley [2]. And he was admitted to the same on 3 February.

[1] Claustral prior, the first prior of monastery: see Du Cange.
[2] Astly was a Worcestershire cell to the Monastery of St. Taurinus : see ante, p. 57.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 209

Institution of John Gardener, priest, presented by Thomas Ralegh of Charles, in the county of Devon, to the church of Eggesworth. And he was admitted to the same on 9 March, 1361.

Institution of Philip de Cestr', priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Teukesbury to the church of St. Andrew of Bristol. And he was admitted to the same on 15 February.

[Fol. 113d] Institution of Nicholas Wynbaud, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Gloucester to the church of Osleworth. And he was admitted to the same on 10 February.

Institution of John Goffeld of Askeby, priest, presented to the church of Nymdesfeld. And he was admitted to the same on 15 February.

Institution of William Lodlowe, priest, presented by the Abbot and Convent of Wynchcomb to the church of Rowell. And he was admitted to the same on 6 February.

Institution of William de Sleford, clerk, presented by the King to the church of Belnebrokton. And he was admitted to the same on 20 February.

Institution of William de Wotton, priest, presented by Sir John Wysham, knight, to the church of Churchull. And he was admitted to the same on 5 March.

Institution of Adam, son of John de Tresul, priest, presented by Edmund de Donclent to the church of Churchull. And he was admitted to the same on 5 March.

Provision by the Prior of Worcester of brother Thomas Doul, as Prior of Dodeford of the order of St. Augustine in the diocese of Worcester, the late prior, brother William de Aston, having died on 9 February, 1361-2, and being buried on 10 February, and it being represented to the Prior of Worcester by brothers T. Doul and J. Hondy, on behalf of the other canons of the same priory, the inconvenience of a long vacation, and there being no way or form of election in the same priory. Dated at Worcester, 13 February.

210 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Letter from John de Bosco, John de Bradewey, and John de Berga, monks of the monastery of Alyncestr' to the King, that brother Robert de Adbriton, formerly Abbot of Alyncestr', having died, and they, having obtained licence to elect a new abbot, and having unanimously elected brother Maurice de Munstreworth, present the same elect to the King, by brother John de Berga, praying for the royal assent to such election. Dated at the chapterhouse of Alyncestr', 14 January.

Letter from John, Prior of Worcester, to the King, presenting brother Maurice de Munstreworth, elect of Alyncestre, to the King for the royal assent. Dated at Worcester, 19 January, 1361 [-2].

[Fol. 114] Confirmation by John, Prior of Worcester upon whom the right of making the abbot of the monastery of the Blessed Mary and St. John the Baptist of Alyncestr' has lawfully devolved of brother Maurice de Munstreworth of the order of St. Benedict, professed in the monastery of Gloucester, by the assent of brother Thomas [l], abbot of the monastery of Gloucester, as abbot of the said monastery of Alyncestr'.

Resignation by Robert Wattes, vicar of the parish church of Hembury, of the parish church of Nafford, 10 January, 1361[-2].

Resignation by Roger atte Churche, rector of the parish church of Cotes, of the vicarage of the church of St. Peter de Sodynton, 17 January.

Resignation by Robert de Bannebury, vicar of the parish church of Stodleye, of the vicarage of the church of Stodleye, 19 December.

Resignation by Henry de Kenewarton, rector of the church of Morton Abbas, of the vicarage of the church of Byshampton, 22 January.

Resignation by Simon de Colewell, rector of the church of St. Audeon [Andrew ?] of Bristol, of the same church, 10 February.

[1] Thomas Horton, 1351-1377.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 211

Resignation by Peter de Wodmoncot, rector of the church of St. Michael of Bristol, of the same church, 10 February.

Resignation by Thomas Proud of Staunton, rector of the church of Kynton, of the chapel of Morton upon the Hill, 5 March.

Resignation by W. Bornthon, rector of the church of Eselworth, of the same church, 3 January.

Resignation by Adam de Castel, of the vicarage of Inteberge, i March.

Commission by the Prior of Worcester to Robert, Bishop of Sens [1], to celebrate orders and consecrate parish churches and altars in parish churches within the diocese of Worcester, the See being vacant. Dated at Worcester, 27 January.

Mandate to the rectors of the churches of A. B. C. and D. to excommunicate those who impeded and beat Thomas, apparitor of Worcester, when he cited John Roode to appear before the Prior of Worcester.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Abbot and Convent of Teukesbury, declaring his intention to make visitation at their monastery on Monday the feast of St. Valentine. Dated at Worcester, the 4 February, 1361 [-2].

[Fol. 114d] Certificate of the receipt of the foregoing letter. Like letter to the Abbot and Convent of Gloucester, for Tuesday, the morrow of St. Valentine, and like certificate by the same.

Like letter to the Abbot and Convent of Perschore, for Saturday after the Epiphany, and like certificate by the same.

Like letter to Walter, Abbot, and the Convent of Winchcomb, for Monday after the Epiphany, and like certificate by the same.

Like letter to the Prior and Convent of Lanthon' next Gloucester, for Thursday after the feast of St. Valentine, and like certificate by the same.

[1] Or of Troyes Presonensis.

212 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Like letter to the friars of tne hospital of St. Bartholomew of Gloucester, for Wednesday after the feast of St. Valentine, and like certificate by the same.

[Fol. 115] Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the Dean of Christianity of Warwick, declaring his intention to make visitations as follows : at Waweyneswotton, on Thursday then next following [1], of the church of Waweyneswotton with the chapels and parish churches of Lapworth with their chapels of Toneworth, of Ippeleye, Stodleye, Cotton, Spernore, of Alyncestre, of Arewe, of Kynewarton Beaudesert, of Ollebergh, of Morton, of Preston, of Claverdon, of Wolnardynton, of Aston, of Haselore, of Dillesleye, of Bynynton, of Grafton, of Ecclesale, of Budeforde, and of Saltford; and on Friday, the morrow, the parish churches of Stretford and Bishops Hampton with their chapels in the said church of Stretford; and on the Monday following, in the church of St. Sepulchre of Warwick, the same church of St. Sepulchre, and the churches of Budebrokes, of Hatton, of Haseleye, of Shirbourne, Fulbrokes, and Snytesfeld, and all parishes in the town of Warwick and also the collegiate church of the Blessed Mary, the hospitals of the Blessed John and Michael, and the clergy, church and people of all the aforesaid churches.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to Master Richard Zaneworth, authorizing him to admit the administration (insumationes) of Wills in the deaneries of Cirencestr', Fayreford, and Stonhous, in the archdeaconry of Gloucester, and also to collect and receive all oblations and other profits due or to be due by reason of the vacancy of the See.

Resignation by John Lovecok of Aston upon Carent', warden or rector of the chantry or chapel of Harsecomb with the chapel of Pynchenecomb to the same annexed, 25 February, 1361[-2].

Resignation by John Alewy, priest and master or warden of the hospital of the Blessed Mary next Wych, of the wardenship of the said hospital, 26 February.

Conge d'elire by Guy de Bryene, Robert de Parle, clerk, and

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 213 Walter de Parle, attorneys general of Sir Edward le Despencer [1], lord of Glamorgan, Morgannock in England, Wales and Ireland, to the Prior and Convent of Teukesbury, to elect an abbot in the place of brother Thomas de Leighe, who died on Thursday before the feast of St. Dennis last past. Dated at London, 17 October, 35 Edward III.

[Fol. 115d] Letter from Edward le Despencer, lord of Glamorgan and Morgannock, to Reginald, bishop of Worcester, that the subprior and convent of Teukesbury have signified to him, their patron, that they have elected brother Thomas de Chesterton as their abbot, and prayed that he will consent to such election and present the elect to the same bishop. The said Edward, having so consented, presents the aforesaid elect to the bishop. Dated at his house in London, Monday, the vigil of St. Andrew the Apostle, 1361.

Appointment by Nicholas de Redyngge, sub-prior, and the convent of the monastery of Blessed Mary of Teukesbury, of the order of St. Benedict, of brothers John Marcle and John de Prestebury, their special proctors, to present to brother Thomas de Chesterton their election of him as abbot, and to pray his consent to the same. Dated in the chapter-house of Teukesbury, Wednesday, the morrow of St. Clement the Pope, to wit, the 24 November, 1361.

Letter from Richard de Ledbury, rector of the church of Bredon, to the Prior of Worcester, that having received a commission from the same prior, dated 14 December, 1361, to cite all opposers to the election of brother Thomas de Chesterton as abbot of Teukesbury, to appear on Saturday after the feast of St. Lucy the Virgin at the first hour in the cathedral church, he went to the church of Teukesbury and cited the opposers to appear as directed. In witness whereof he has set the seal of the deanery of Breodon. Dated at Bredon Thursday after the feast of St. Lucy the Virgin.

[Fol. 116] Letter from Nicholas de Redyngg', the sub-prior, and the convent of the Blessed Mary of Teukesbury to the lord

[1] Nephew of Hugh de Spencer, son of Eleanor, daughter and co-heiress of Gilbert de Clare, last Earl of Gloucester, and through her patron of Tewkesbury.

214 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Reginald, bishop of Worcester. That by the sacred canons, a church should not be vacant beyond three months, &c., and their monastery being vacant by the death of brother Thomas de Leighe, the last abbot, who died on 7 October, 1361, and his body was buried on 19th of the same month, they sought from the noble man and their patron, the lord Edward le Despenser, and in his absence from his proctors and attorneys, licence to elect an abbot. Which being obtained, the said sub-prior and all and singular the monks meet together on 18 of November in their chapter-house to treat of the election of a future abbot, when Wednesday after the feast of St. Clement the Pope, to wit, 24 November, was fixed for the election. In the mean time, having cited those absent, and all those who would and could be present in the said chapter-house, being come together on the said Wednesday, and the Word of God having been set forth, the hymn Vent Creator being solemnly sung, and moreover there having been read the constitution of the general council, after some discussion, it was at length agreed to proceed by way of compromise [1]; and power was committed to brothers Nicholas de Rodyngg', the sub-prior, Robert de Stolton, sacristan, John Marcle, precentor, William de Putteleye, prior of Cranebourne, Thomas de Chesterton, cellarer, John de la Hyde, Richard de Stowe, sub-cellarer, William de Homleye, and John de Ayshford, monks, till the darkness of night of the same Wednesday only, to elect an abbot from themselves or others of the monastery. And after long treaty they elected Thomas de Chesterton, cellarer. Then brother Nicholas de Rodyngg came into the chapter-house and declared the election as above; and all having approved the same election, they, singing Te Deum laudamus, carried the same elect to the high altar and placed him upon the same, as is the custom, and then brother Nicholas de Redingg' published the election to the clergy and people congregated there in a great multitude. And afterwards, about the hour of vespers on the same Wednesday, the election was presented to the aforenamed elect in the chapel of the infirmary, by brothers John Marcle, precentor, and John de Prestebury, the third prior (iij um priorem), monks and proctors, for his consent; and at length the same elect, on Thursday following, to wit, 25 November, being unwilling to resist the divine will gave his consent in the same chapel. On account of these things, the

[1] See ante, Part II., p. xvii. SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 215

said Nicholas de Rodingg, sub-prior, prays the said bishop to confirm the same election and to do what to his paternity belongs in the matter. Dated in the chapter-house of Worcester, 29 November.

[Fol. 116d] Notarial certificate to the above by Peter de Wodmencote, clerk, of the diocese of Worcester, notary public by apostolic authority.

Articles touching the election of brother Thomas de Chesterton as abbot of the monastery of Teukesbury, transmitted to the bishop, of Worcester. First, it is intended to prove that the monastery being vacant and licence having been asked from the patron, the election of the future abbot of the same monastery belongs and pertains, and for forty years and since, and before the time whereof the memory of man is not to the contrary, belonged and pertained to the convent of the same monastery or the monks there forming the chapter. Also, that the same convent, and monks of the said monastery there forming the chapter were in peaceful possession of the right of electing an abbot, as is aforesaid, all the time abovesaid. Also, that the said monastery being vacant by the death of brother Thomas de Leighe, the last abbot, and his body being buried, licence to elect an abbot was sought from Sir Edward le Despenser, and in his absence from his attorneys on that behalf appointed, and licence was obtained from the same attorneys. Also, for making such election, the aforesaid Sir Edward le Despenser gave his consent. Also that on the 18 November the monks in holy orders and professing the rule of St. Benedict, being assembled in the chapter-house fixed upon Wednesday after the feast of St. Clement the Pope, namely, 24 November, 1361, for the election of a future abbot. Also, that on the said day it was unanimously agreed to proceed by way of compromise. Also, it was agreed to choose nine persons of the said convent to elect and provide for themselves and their monastery one of themselves or other brother of the convent, as abbot, to wit, brother Nicholas de Redingg, sub-prior, Robert de Stolton, sacristan, John Marcle, precentor, William de Putteleye, prior of Cranbourne, Thomas de Chesterton, cellarer, John de la Hyde, Richard de Stowe, subcellarer, William de Hornleye, and John de Ayschford, monks,

2l6 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

to whom power was given by brother John de Prestebury, the third prior, and the whole monastery (those nine excepted) till the darkness of night of that Wednesday, to elect an abbot. Also that the said compromisers (compromissarii) accepted such power, and after consideration among themselves they elected brother Thomas de Chesterton, cellarer, monk, and one of the compromisors, as abbot (the same Thomas only excepted from the voters). Also, that brother Nicholas de Redyngg', one of the compromisors, solemnly elected the said Thomas before all the monks assembled in the chapter-house. Also, that the said brother Thomas de Chesterton is a monk of the convent of the monastery aforesaid, of good fame and of uncorrupt opinions, expressly professing the rule of St. Benedict in the same monastery, careful and discreet in business, sufficiently instructed in the knowledge of letters, of commendable life and habits, in priest's orders, of lawful age, born in lawful matrimony, and prudent in spiritual and temporal matters. Also, the said election was publicly and solemnly celebrated, pronounced, and accepted, approved and ratified by all and singular the convent (the said elect only excepted), and afterwards solemnly published to the clergy and people in the vulgar tongue. Also, that the said elect subsequently gave his consent. Also, that all and singular the premises are publicly known and famous in the monastery of Teukesbury and neighbouring places. All which premises the proctor intends to prove. Appointment by the sub-prior and convent of Teukesbury of Master John de Aston, clerk, their proctor, to pray from the lord Reginald, bishop of Worcester, confirmation of the election of brother Thomas de Chesterton as abbot of their monastery. Dated in the chapter-house of Teukesbury, 10 December, 1361.

[Fol. 117d] Confirmation of the said election by the bishop of Worcester (?) [1].

[Fol. 118] REGISTER OF THOSE things which were done, the see of Worcester being vacant by the translation of the lord

[1] The Bishop Bryan died on the very day, 10th Dec., 1361, the Tewkesbury monks appointed their Proctor. Barnet, the new Bishop, was not enthroned before the 12th March, 1361.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 217

John de Barnet late bishop of Worcester to the church of Bath and Wells, from the first day of April, 1364, to the second of July of the same year.

Commission from Simon, Archbishop of Canterbury, to the prior of Worcester to exercise all ordinary jurisdiction in the city and diocese of Worcester during the vacancy of the see. Dated at Cherryngges, the 8th of the Ides of April, 1364.

INSTITUTION OF CLERKS. Robert de Caldewell, clerk, presented by Sir William de Scanceby, prebendary of the prebend of Compton Mirdak, to the church of Bodebrook, vacant by the resignation of Nicholas Andrew, the last rector. And he was admitted to the same on 23 April, 1364.

William Warde, priest, presented by the prior and convent of St. Sepulchre of Warwick, to the church of Haseleye, vacant by the resignation of Sir William de Nayleston, the last rector. And he was admitted to the same on 29 May.

Robert Jones of Bokeford, priest, presented by brother Drocum, proctor of brother John de Medunta, prior of Derhurst, to the church of Welneford, vacant by the death of Sir William de Scanceby, the last rector. And he was admitted to the same on 21 June.

Martin Trouel, priest, presented by the King, the see being vacant, to the preceptory of the hospital of St. Wolstan of Worcester, vacant by the resignation of Sir Robert de Dychesdon, the last preceptor. And he was instituted there on 19 June. And the rector of St. Ellen of Worcester is written to, to induct him.

Letter from Lewis [1], bishop of Hereford, to the Prior of Worcester. Whereas the prebend of Mordon and Waddon of the diocese of Worcester, is a prebend of the cathedral church of Hereford, and belongs to the bishop's collation, which same prebend the bishop had given to Master Edmund Morteyn, who had taken it in exchange for the prebend of Thokerinton in the cathedral church of

[1] Lewis Charleton, 1361-1369.

2l8 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

York, the same bishop prays the prior to give his consent to the entry of the same Edmund upon the same prebend. Dated at Bosebure, 22 April, 1364.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester consenting to the entry of the same Edmund Morteyn, canon of Hereford or his proctor, as above. Dated at Worcester, 23 April, 1364.

Institution of William Lude, priest, presented by the lady Eleanor Bussell to the church of Durham [1] vacant by the death of Master John, the last rector. And he was admitted to the same on 6 May.

Institution of John Brain, priest, presented by Master John de la Donne, rector of the Church of St. Ellen of Worcester, to the perpetual chantry, commonly called "Spagard" in the said church, which chantry has been vacant for a long time. And he was admitted on 19 June. And the rector of the church of St. Swithin is written to, to induct him.

[Fol. 118d] Institution of John Gorwey, priest, presented by the prioress and convent of Uske to the vicarage of the church of Begworth, vacant by the resignation of Master William Semes, the last vicar. And he was admitted on 19 June.

Institution of Nicholas Geffrey, priest, presented by the king, the see of Worcester being vacant, to the wardenship of the hospital of Holy Trinity of Langebrugg next Berkele, vacant by the resignation of Walter Launce, the last warden. And he was admitted on 26 June.

Letters dimissory for John Webbe of Matheme for all minor orders, 4 May.

The like for John Cockes of Perschore for deacon's and priest's orders, 15 May.

The like for Laurence Smythes of Marteleye for deacon's and priest's orders, 15 May.

[1] In margin Uerham.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 219

The like for John ate Feld of Leech Turvyle to sub-deacon's orders by title of the monastery of Brueria, 30 May.

Visitations in the Archdeaconry of Worcester.

The Prior of Worcester visited the chapter of the same on 11 April.

The same prior visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Poywyk on 12 April in the parish church there and received in the name of a proxy 4 marks from the said church.

Master Thomas de Lench and brother John de Mucheneye, commissaries of the said prior, visited the clergy and people of the city and deanery of Worcester in the cathedral church of Worcester on 13 April.

The Prior of Worcester visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Wych in the parish church of Terdebygg on 15 April, and received in the name of a proxy 4 marks.

The same prior visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Warwick in the parish church of Wawenneswotton on 16 April, and there received in the name of a proxy 4 marks.

The same prior visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Kyngton in the parish church of Wolvord'.

Master Thomas de Lench' and brother Richard Hengesheye commissaries of the said prior, visited the abbey of Pershore, on 24 April, and received proxies in food and drink.

The same commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of the same on the same day in the parish church of St. Andrew of Pershore.

The same commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Kyderminstr' in the parish church of the same, on 27 April, and also made visitation there of the parish church of Clent and Rouleye on the same day, and received from the same church of Clent in the name of a proxy 20s.

220 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

The above said prior visited the monastery of Stodley in the chapter-house of the same on 20 May, and against him at his entry were assembled many with bows and divers other arms to resist the same prior that he should not exercise his jurisdiction. These the same prior would have excommunicated but for the intervention of certain great men there. And he received proxies there in meat and drink.

The same prior visited the abbey of Alencestr' and the priory of Cookhull separately on 21 May, and he received proxies in food and drink.

Master Thomas de Lench' and brother Richard Hengesheye visited the collegiate church of the Blessed Mary of Warwick and the house of St. Sepulchre, in their chapter-houses, on 7 May. And they received in the name of a proxy half a mark from the church of Pillardyngton, appropriated to the said collegiate church.

Visitations in the Archdeaconry of Gloucester.

The Prior of Worcester visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Campeden in the parish church of Wykewane on 18 April and there received in the name of a proxy 4 marks.

[Fol. 119] On the same day he visited the parish church of Dydebrok and there received in the name of a proxy 4 marks.

The same prior visited the abbey of Wynchcumb in the chapterhouse of the same on 19 May, and received proxies in meat and drink. And on the same day Master Thomas de Lench', commissary of the said prior, visited the clergy and people of the deanery of the same, in the church of St. Peter of Wynchecumb.

Master Robert de Nettleton and brother Roger de Temebur', commissaries of the said prior, visited the monastery of Teukesbur' in the chapter-house of the same on 23 May. And they received proxies in meat and drink.

The same commissaries visited the abbey of St. Peter of Gloucester in the chapter-house of the same on 26 May. And they received proxies in meat and drink.

SEDE VACANTE REGISTER. 221

The same commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Stonhouse in the parish church there on 27 May.

Master Robert More and brother Roger Temedebur', commissaries of the same prior, visited the monastery of Cirencestr [1] in the chapter-house of the same on 12 April. And they received in the name of a proxy 4 marks.

On the same day the said commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of the same place in the parish church, there.

The said brother Roger de Temedebur' and John de Seggesberewe visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Stowe in the parish church there on 6 May.

The said commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Fayreford in the parish church there on 7 May.

The said commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Gloucester in the church of St. Nicholas there on 8 May. And on the same day the commissaries visited the monastery of Lanthon' next Gloucester and received proxies in meat and drink.

The said commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deanery of Deresleye in the parish church there on 9 May.

The same commissaries visited the monastery of St. Augustine of Bristol in the chapter-house of the same on 29 May, and received proxies in meat and drink. And on the same day visited the clergy and people of the deanery of the same in the parish church of St. Augustine.

The said commissaries visited the clergy and people of the deaneries of Haueskesbur' (sic) and Button in the parish church of Sobbur' on 28 May, and received 40s. in the name of a proxy from the church of Great Badmynton appropriated to the abbot and convent of Lylleshulle.

222 SEDE VACANTE REGISTER.

Sum of the sinodals in the deaneries of the archdeaconry of Worcester.

In the deanery of Worcester, 20s. In the deanery of Poywyk, 13s. In the deanery of Perschore, 39s. In the deanery of Wych, 27s. In the deanery of Kyderminster, 24s. In the deanery of Warrewyk, 26s. In the deanery of Kyngton, 25s.

Sum 8li. 14s.

Sum of the sinodals and pentecostals in the archdeaconry of Gloucester, 9li. 17s.

Letter from the Prior of Worcester to the dean of Christianity of Warwick and sub-warden of Stratford. That having promulgated the sentence of the greater excommunication against John de Hatton for his great offences, the said prior commands the said dean to declare the same John excommunicated, in the parish church of Stratford and other neighbouring places, where it may seem expedient, on Sundays and festivals between the solemnization of masses and to cite him and Amice de C. to appear before the same prior or his commissary in the cathedral church of Worcester to receive the punishment (paena) or aggravation of the said sentence, and the said warden also to appear.

[Fol. 119d] Institution of Geoffrey, chaplain of Ilmenton, presented by Peter de Montefort to the church of Baudesert (Bello Decerto) vacant of William, late rector of the same. And he was admitted to the same on 1 February, 1368[-9] [1].

Institution of Philip, chaplain of Weston upon Avon, presented by the prior and convent of Kylleworth to the church of Wyllesbourne, vacant by the death of ....

[1] This belongs to the vacancy on the death of Bishop Whittlesey, 1364-1368.

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