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VISITATIONS 
 
 OF 
 
 ENGLISH CLUNIAC FOUNDATIONS 
 
 IN 
 
 47 HEN. III. (1262), 3 & 4 EDW. I. (1275-6), & 7 EDW. I. (1279), 
 
 TRANSLATED FROM 
 
 The original records in the National Library of France ; to which 
 from the same source are added, in part, those of 
 
 27 EDW. I. (1298), 13 RIC. II. (1390), 6 HEN. IV. (1405), 
 
 WITH 
 
 ©rbinmtce in rtspett a£^% Hebe-, anb ©bii-gjolls of % ©rber. 
 BY 
 
 SIR G. F. DUCKETT, Bart., 
 
 OFFICIER DE L' IN ST RUCTION PUBLIQUE IN PRANCE J GREAT GOLD MEDALLIST OP "SCIENCE AND ART " 
 
 IN AUSTRIA AND GERMANY; FKLLOW OP THE SOCIETY OP ANTIQUARIES ," AND CORRESPONDING 
 
 MEMBER OP THE " SOCIE*Te" DBS ANTIQUAIRES DE NORMANDIE." 
 
 grins of % §,bbeg of €hmt. 
 
 [Gules, two keys in saltire, the wards up- 
 wards, or ; surmounted by a sword in pale 
 ppr., blade arg., hilt and pommel or.] 
 
 Eonton: 
 KEGAN PAUL, TRENCH, TRUBNER, & CO. 
 
 M.DCCC.XC. 
 
 5 
 
TO 
 
 THE HONOURED MEMORY 
 
 OF AN 
 
 ACCOMPLISHED WOMAN OF GREAT LITERARY ATTAINMENT, 
 
 MY DEEPLY REGRETTED FRIEND, AND KINSWOMAN, 
 
 i$tarta ^allttrag, 
 
 WIFE OF W. H. HALLIDAY, OF GLENTHORNE, DEVON, 
 
 AND 
 
 DAUGHTER OF SIR THOMAS HARVIE FARQUHAR, BART., 
 
 THESE FOLLOWING PAGES 
 
 ARE INSCRIBED. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNIAC 
 FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 Perhaps of all monastic records, those dealing with the 
 visitation of subordinate monasteries by delegated 
 ecclesiastics from the parent-house, are among the most 
 interesting and characteristic of the cloister period, but 
 it would have increased our knowledge of such personal 
 inspections, had there been handed down to us some 
 code of rules by which they were conducted. Never- 
 theless, their purport and object may be readily under- 
 stood, and are generally defined. There exists, no doubt, 
 an outline of instructions, or Memoranda for the guidance 
 of certain abbatial visitors, sent into England in 1457, 
 two hundred years later than the first visitation now to 
 be recorded ; but these so-called visitors were rather 
 emissaries or commissioners from Cluni to look after the 
 property of the Order in this country, and recover what- 
 ever they might be able, at that perilous period for alien 
 priories. Still, as formulce for visitatorial duties, the 
 Memoranda in question will supply, to some further 
 extent, what is apparently wanting.* 
 
 The Order of Cluni possessed 35 subordinate houses 
 in England, irrespective of three other affiliations in 
 Scotland, and of the former the first established was the 
 Priory of Barnstaple. f The Vicar-General of the Order 
 we find in almost every instance to have been the Prior 
 of St. Pancras of Lewes, and notwithstanding there were 
 two Cluniac abbeys in this country (those of Paisley 
 and Bermondsey), and that this monastery was only 
 reckoned its second affiliation in point of rank, it may be 
 still looked upon as the chief establishment of the Order. 
 
 Of the several ecclesiastical provinces of the Order, 
 
 * " Records and Charters of Cluni," ii., 83-85. 
 t Pignot, " Ordre de Cluni," iii., 419. 
 
6 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNrAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 England and Scotland formed one,* and its affiliations 
 were those of: — Bablew (Som.) ; Barnstaple (Dev.) ; 
 Bermondsey (Surr.); Monk-Bretton (York); Bromholme 
 (Norf.) ; Careswell (Dev.) ; Castle Acre (Norf.) ; Clifford 
 (Heref.) ; Daventry (N'hants) ; Derby ; Dudley (Wore.) ; 
 Hitcham (or Heacham)f (Norf.); Holme (Dor.); Horksley 
 (Essex) ; Horton (Kent) ; Kershall (Lane.) ; Lenton 
 (Notts) ; Lewes (Sussex) ; Malpas (Motim.) ; Melton- 
 Mowbray (Leic.) ; Montacute (Som.); Mendliam J (Suff.); 
 Normansberch (Suff.) ; Northampton ; Northampton 
 (nunnery); Pontefract ( York) ; Preen (Salop); Prittlewell 
 (Essex) ; Sleusham (Norf.) ; Stanesgate (Essex) ; St. 
 Syriac§ (Corn.); Tbetford (Norf.); Tykeford (Bucks); 
 Wangford (Suff.); Wenlock (Salop). 
 
 The Cistercian, of all other Orders, had, however, 
 greater charms for this country, and took deeper root 
 therein, the number of its foundations being in excess 
 of those of Cluni by one half or more. But, if the Cis- 
 tercian Order was the most popular, it must be borne in 
 mind, that the reformed Benedictine congregation of Cluni 
 was its great prototype, and that the foundation of this 
 branch of monasticism, preceded it by nearly 200 years. || 
 
 Like all monastic institutions, after the time of its 
 fifth abbot in 1122, Peter the Venerable, the glory of 
 the Order having culminated in him, the inevitable fate 
 attending its progress was ultimate decay, for as wealth 
 increased, and with it the power of the community, so 
 abuses crept in. The grand and original aim of the Order 
 — the conversion of barbarism to Christianity — gradually 
 sank into disrepute, and as time went on, this religious in- 
 stitution, which had done so much to civilize and enlighten 
 mankind, became in the end, before the lapse of a few 
 
 * The ten territorial divisions or provinces of the Order of Cluni comprised : — 
 1, Lyon ; 2, Fraiice ; 3, Provence, Tarentaise, Dauphine, Vienne ; 4, Poitou, and 
 Saintonge ; 5, Auvergne ; 6, Gascogne ; 7, Germany, Lorraine, and Bourgogne; 
 8, Italy; 9, Spain ; 10, England and Scotland. — "Bibliotheca Cluniacensis," pp. 
 1706, 1751. 
 
 f A cell to Castle-Acre. 
 
 J Subordinate to Lewes ; fonnded t. Kufns by W. de Warenne. 
 
 § Or St. Carious ; a cell to Montacute. 
 
 || When at the height of its glory, Cluni may be said to have covered the whole 
 face of Christian Europe with its affiliated foundations, and stood at the head of 
 all monastic institutions, even after the rise of other Orders. Its spiritual dominion 
 reaohed at that time from the British Isles and the West of Europe, to Constanti- 
 nople and the Holy Land. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLPNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 7 
 
 centuries, a mere benefice in commendam, reserved for 
 ecclesiastics and dignitaries, with the honorary title of 
 " abbe," in favour at Court. 
 
 The subject of the visitation of religious houses is one 
 of considerable interest, but for the most part the records 
 dealing with this particular portion of monastic annals, is 
 imperfect and unsatisfactory. It was one from which 
 the monasteries of the past strained every nerve to be 
 relieved, (we allude more particularly to the oversight 
 and control of the diocesan), for of their own abba- 
 tial superintendence they could scarcely hope to be inde- 
 pendent, though these last visitations were sought to be 
 evaded, as will be seen subsequently,* and without naming 
 'every Order which succeeded in throwing off the episcopal 
 jurisdiction, that of Oluni was the first, we believe, which 
 obtained the privilege of exemption from it. It was Pope 
 Gregory VII., who had himself been a monk of Cluni, who 
 extended to the Order this special immunity. The Prse- 
 monstratensian Order was another, which afterwards 
 obtained a like independence, and the Chronicles of 
 some English houses of other Orders, are found to have got 
 rid also of episcopal superintendence. Although exempted 
 by Papal authority from the said supervision of the 
 diocesan, the records make it clear that as far as the Order 
 of Cluni was concerned, its houses were in all cases still 
 subject to a certain amount of control and interference on 
 the part of the bishops (though to what extent is not 
 very clear or intelligible). We find that the priors are 
 always said to acknowledge the episcopal jurisdiction 
 of their diocesans, e.g., " Ordinarius, cut facit Sf fecit 
 prior obedientiamP They submitted to his authority, 
 apparently, on certain spiritual matters, saving, of course, 
 the privileges granted to their Order by the Holy See. 
 But as regards the Cluniac, and other exempted Orders, 
 inasmuch as it was on the one hand a boon and a triumph 
 to enjoy such independence from episcopal visitatorial 
 oversight, so, perhaps, on the other, nothing contributed 
 more to the decay of all religious Orders, or tended to 
 their ultimate extinction, than such exemption, for many 
 
 * See pp. 15 and 19, where the Visitors complain of not having had access to 
 Lewes Priory ; and the Visitation-report of Monk-Bretton, postea. 
 
8 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 abuses and irregularities were overlooked (and even 
 countenanced) by themselves, which would have been 
 more harshly dealt with by the diocesan. 
 
 The records of such visitations (whether abbatial or 
 episcopal)* are a valuable illustration of monastic 
 life and manners, and from such periodical inspections 
 an insight is obtained into the habits of cloistered com- 
 munities, and the general working of monachism, not 
 usually found in other documentary evidence. It is 
 probable, in the absence of any code of rules on the 
 subject, that both were carried out in the same way, 
 though in some partially recorded episcopal visitations of 
 other Orders, which have been handed down, there is an 
 amount of trifling inquiry very little to the point, and 
 of very little moment. Those about to be given, bear 
 on them the stamp of evident honesty and truthfulness. 
 
 Visitations (as regards the Cluniac Order — and by 
 inference in respect of all monastic Orders) were under- 
 taken by the parent-house for the purpose of promoting 
 uniformity in discipline throughout all its dependent 
 foundations, for correcting abuses, for the reformation 
 of morals, and the maintenance of sound doctrine (in 
 conformity with Catholic views) ; being undertaken 
 either at fixed or uncertain periods, according to the 
 exigency of the moment. They had also another aim in 
 view — the maintenance of the Convent's rights against en- 
 croachments on its estates by feudal lords, which too often 
 involved the Convent in litigation, besides the temporal 
 concerns and everything relating to its income, disburse- 
 mentsandpecuniary liabilities, the prevention of waste and 
 dilapidation, and general watchfulness over its property, 
 and to these may be added the colonization of new 
 foundations. Many of these objects were subsequently 
 attained by the " General Chapters" of the Order, for 
 " Visitations " had an earlier origin. As the business 
 of the parent-house increased, and its subordinate affilia- 
 tions became founded, the abbot could no longer find the 
 
 * Partial visitations of the Praemonstratensian house of Dureford, aud of the 
 nunnery of Easeborne are given in the " Sussex Archaeological Collections " (Vols, 
 viii. and xi.), both from the Episcopal Register of Chichester. The record of a 
 Norfolk visitation by Dr. Jessop was lately published by the Camden Society. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 9 
 
 requisite time to superintend the one, or personally to 
 visit the other ; hence arose the necessity of further over- 
 sight and control, and with this the General Chapter. 
 
 The visitors selected from among their own Order, were 
 nominated for the duty by the Chapter General,* held 
 every year at Cluni. Two were selected for each eccle- 
 siastical Province, of which there were several, that of 
 England and Scotland combined, forming one of them.f 
 
 Throughout the different examples of the earliest 
 Cluniac visitations now given, the financial condition of 
 the foundation appears a primary question, and the 
 
 * General-Chapters seem to have originated as a means of centralization, in 
 respect of matters beyond the power of one head of a. monastic institution to 
 control, snch as the oversight by a personal visitation of its affiliation. As the 
 members of any religious Order increased, and with it the business of the abbot, 
 the personal supervision of this latter became quite inadequate for the multitu- 
 dinous duties of his office. The general chapter (which may be taken as an exten. 
 sion of the provincial chapter) became, therefore, after the abbot, the Order's 
 highest authority. Composed of all the heads or superiors of subject abbeys and 
 priories, it was convened once every year in the month of September (taking the 
 statutes of the Order of Cluni as an example), under the presidency of the abbot 
 of the chief or parent-house. The precedence was given to all mitred abbots, at 
 the head of whom came the abbot of Moissac. After these came the grand-prior, 
 and the claustral-prior, and then in rotation, the following priors in order of pre- 
 cedence, viz., the prior of la Charity, Lewes, Saint Martin-des-Champs, etc. Each 
 head of a subordinate house rendered an account of bis convent, temporarily and 
 spiritually. Decrees which were to become obligatory throughout the Order were 
 thereby promulgated ; or modifications under certain contingencies. 
 
 The general business of Chapters was very diversified, comprising law-suits in 
 respect of a priory's estates, new foundations, instructions to missionary monks, 
 recommendations for priests taking temporary duties, celebration of anniversaries 
 of deceased persons, aud questions as to prescribed ritual. Nothing, in short, of 
 any spiritual or temporal nature can be specified, of which the Chapter did not 
 take cognizance . 
 
 Attendance at General Chapters was compulsory on the part of all dependent 
 abbots and priors, under pain of deposition or removal. The priors, however, of 
 Spain, Lombardy, Italy, Germany, and England, were privileged, aud not subject 
 to attend more than once in three years, although an entry is extant which would 
 make it appear that in some cases this time was extended to even seven years. 
 
 In the sixteenth century, the following was the order of precedence among the 
 heads of the Cluniac affiliations, under the presidency of the abbot of Cluni. The 
 abbots of Moissac, Figeac, Mozac, Balme, Monstierneuf, Saint Benoit (on 
 the Po), Thiers, Beaulieu, Paisley (in Scotland), Payerne, Arles-sur-Tech, 
 Compredon, the grand-prior of Cluni, the claustral-prior of Cluni, the priors of 
 la Charit^-sur- Loire, Saint Paucras (of Lewes), Saint Martin-des-Champs, 
 Souvigny, Sanxillange, Marcigny, Gigny, Charlieu, Pont-Saint-Esprit, Sainte 
 Marie de Najera (in Spain), Paray, Nantua, with 55 other priors and doyens. 
 [Cy. Tepez. iv., 322; Pignot, " Ordre de Cluni," ii., 320.] 
 
 Every year two of the Order were selected to make the abbatial visitation of any 
 province within the Order's jurisdiction, and it is supposed (according to Pignot, 
 " Ordre de Cluni," ii., 320, 322) that the division of its ecclesiastical surveillance 
 into Provinces, was due to the first creation of the Chapter-General. 
 
 f See ante; foot-note, p. 6. 
 
10 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 different reports of the visitors afford evidence of a very 
 unfavourable character in this respect. There is an 
 absence of detail in all, as to some domestic concerns of 
 the convent, which we believe to have been narrowly 
 looked into, and where such is wanting, it is fair to 
 assume that silence was deemed more prudent than 
 publicity. 
 
 The progress through the country of the visitors being 
 carried out" along tracks, paths, or bridle-roads, for roads 
 (properly so-called) did not then exist, the time occupied 
 in following their route, from one priory to another, was 
 less protracted or slow than might be supposed, for we 
 all know the distance a moderately good horse will traverse 
 in a day across a broken country. But this speed is more 
 than attained in one case, in which the visitors (1279) 
 are said to have travelled from the North of England 
 into Norfolk, as quickly as could be accomplished on 
 horse-back at the present time. Nevertheless, one is still 
 surprised how in those clays of insecurity, such locomotion 
 could have been so rapidly effected. 
 
 The Cluniac visitations of 1262, 1275-6, and 1279 
 are, we believe, as early as any to be found relating 
 to this country, whilst those of 1298, 1390, and 
 1405, though embodied under one head from visita- 
 tions of those dates, bring the subject down to within 
 a short time of the dissolution of all alien priories in 
 this country. 
 
 The foregoing, though falling short of completeness, 
 may possibly be sufficient to afford some idea of the 
 general object and scope of abbatial visitations. 
 
 Of these we give a literal translation, in respect of 
 purport and sense, but one as free and unrestrained as is 
 compatible with the original.* 
 
 * Lest there should be some, who may be disposed to carp at the free translation 
 adopted by ns (for we know that there are a few, who arrogate to themselves a 
 sort of divine right to sit in judgment on all matters — literary, historical, 
 or controversial), we may observe that between the strictly literal and free 
 translation of medieval Latin, there is this to remark — the former, usually in 
 vogue, is not only very uncomfortable reading, even when correct, but much more 
 so when defective in its rendering, or, as we have often seen, interlarded with the 
 grossest blunders. If the latter style, therefore, gives the literal meaning of a 
 passage, though not the ipsissima verba, we hold it to be a preferable mode of 
 convtying the sense. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLtJNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 11 
 
 Report made in 1262 (47 Hen. III.) by the Priors John 
 and Henry, Visitors of the Abbey of Gluni, on the condition 
 of the English subordinate-houses of Lewes, Theiford, 
 Wenlock, Northampton, Tontefrad, Montacute, and Ber- 
 mondsey, under the authority of Yves de Poyson, 25th 
 Abbot of Gluni. 
 
 In the year of Our Lord 1262, We the Brothers, 
 John and Henry, Priors respectively of Gassicourt and 
 Bermondsey, proceeded to carry out our English Visita- 
 tion, commencing with the priory of Lewes. We in- 
 quired, first as to the regular fulfilment of all the 
 Convent's statutes and rule, and whether they were 
 strictly observed. Having ascertained the apparent truth, 
 with all accustomed form and ceremony, it resulted 
 clearly, that all devotional offices were becomingly per- 
 formed, that (independent of matters which pertain to 
 spiritualities), all monastic obligations and duties, such 
 as the observance of silence at enjoined times ; almsgiv- 
 ing; hospitality; and the administrative daily business of 
 the monastery, pertaining to the necessary requirements 
 of the whole community (including those in the in- 
 firmary), were, according to the concurrent testimony of 
 all evidence adduced, conducted to the upholding of the 
 statutes regulating such things. In respect of its in- 
 debtedness, there is more owing to the house, than the 
 house itself may be said to owe. 
 
 Next, being in London, we instituted searching 
 inquiry into the condition of Lenton priory,* through 
 two of that establishment, Brother Alfred, its sub- 
 cellarer,! and Richard, the almoner % of the house. By 
 the showing of these it was manifest, that the state of 
 the Convent was all that could be desired in respect of 
 spiritualities, and that Divine offices were conducted 
 becomingly and according to church-ritual ; the religious 
 community consisting of twenty-two monks, and two 
 lay-brethren. Having further inquired of them, as to 
 the convent's financial condition, it was evident that the 
 
 * Lenton Priory in Notts, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, was directly subject to 
 Cluni. Its cells were Eershall, in Lane, and Boche. 
 t The cellarer procured provisions for the convent. 
 J The almoner had the supervision of the daily distribution of alms. 
 
12 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 house was loaded with debt, to the extent of a thousand 
 pounds of the English currency. 
 
 At the same place (London), we made inquiry through 
 Brother Henry, sub-prior of Thetford,* and Thomas, 
 the convent's chamberlain,! as to the true state and 
 condition of that house. By their evidence it appeared, 
 that all Divine offices were conducted and celebrated 
 as heretofore, and all other spiritualities were becom- 
 ingly and suitably observed. The Prior himself, how- 
 ever, was impeded from coming in person, being kept 
 at home by bodily infirmity, the truth of this being 
 certified to us in writing. We inquired then as to the 
 convent's liabilities, of the said Sub-Prior and Chamber- 
 lain, and as to all other matters relating to the adminis- 
 tration of its goods and property. Being furnished with 
 a written statement of the accounts in respect of the 
 former by the Prior, it was shown by such statement and 
 their evidence, that the pecuniary obligation of the 
 house amounted to six hundred and ten marks. The 
 number of the brethren are twenty-two. 
 
 We instituted inquiry, also, being still there, as to the 
 Priory of Montacute, j through Brother Walter, almoner 
 of the convent; Brother Jeffery, Prior of Holme, and 
 Brother Jeffrey of Northampton, the procurator (or 
 authorized agent) of that monastery. By them it was 
 shown and satisfactorily proved, that all Divine offices 
 at Montacute were celebrated with the usual becoming 
 solemnity, and that other matters relating to spirituali- 
 ties were suitably carried out. Being then asked 
 as to the indebtedness of the convent, they answered 
 that it owed three hundred marks sterling. The re- 
 ligious community of this house consists of twenty-five 
 brethren. 
 
 * Thetford Priory (Norf.) was founded by Roger Bigot in 1103. In the time of 
 Edw. III. it petitioned to be made denizen. See VitelliuB. P. IV., for extracts re- 
 lating to Thetford ; also Dods. M.S., Vol. 102, f. 67-72 (Bibl. Bodl.). 
 
 t The chamberlain was a monastic official, whose duties and office were not 
 always the same. He appears in some cases to have procured the necessary 
 clothing and sandals for the monks; also collected the rents and taxes. In other 
 cases, he represented the abbot in the visitations of its provinces (Du Oange). 
 
 J Montacute (Som.) was founded by William, E. of Morton, t. Hen. I. He took 
 part with Kobert Curthose, against Hen. I. Its cells were Careswell (Dev.), Holme 
 (Dor.), St. Syriac (Corn.), and Malpas (Mon.). 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLtJNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 13 
 
 State of the Cells subject to la Charite\ 
 
 In due course we came to Northampton,* and made 
 there our Visitation according to the usual manner. We 
 ascertained on inquiry, that the house had a debt of two 
 hundred seventy-two and a half marks ; that all Divine 
 and solemn offices were becomingly celebrated and per- 
 formed ; that all necessaries for the use of the community 
 were sufficiently provided for ; and all other obligations 
 were rightly carried out. The number of the brethren 
 here amount to thirty-four. 
 
 On our return to London, the Prior of Wenlock 
 having been cited to attend, and personally appear before 
 us ; Brother Walter the chamberlain, and Brother Philip 
 the land-steward (or bailiff), f of Wenlock priory, having 
 been sent to us on behalf of the convent, these severally 
 made their report to us of that house ;$ its condition, both 
 as to spiritualities and temporalities, being as follows : — 
 The Divine offices are there conducted with all possible 
 solemnity and propriety ; silence is observed ; and all such 
 things as pertain to correction, and the sub-prior's duties 
 in respect thereof, firmly and strictly observed. The 
 brotherhood number thirty-four ; and its pecuniary lia- 
 bilities, amount to sixteen hundred marks, with an 
 additional sum of twenty-six and a half marks; of these 
 eighty marks, and another sum of twelve and a half 
 marks, are owing with interest to different merchants. 
 
 In due course, we made our Visitation of the abbey's 
 cell of Bermondsey,§ and having ascertained the exact 
 truth as to the observance of the convent's statutes and 
 rule, the result of such inquiry showed, that all devotional 
 offices and rites were most properly and becomingly per- 
 
 * St. Andrew of Northampton. 
 
 + Grenetarius or granatarius in the text j monastic official who had the oversight 
 of the grain and farm-produce ; farm-bailiff ; land-steward. 
 
 J Wenlock was a cell to the house of la Charit<5 in France. During the wars 
 between England and France it suffered the fate of all alien priories. An extent 
 of its possessions was taken in 1380, when in the King's hands. Its own immediate 
 cells were :— St. James of Dudley, and St. Helen. It was refounded in 1080, by 
 Roger de Montgomeri. Paisley was founded in 1184, and colonized by monks 
 from Wenlock. 
 
 . § Bermondsey, in Surrey, below London Bridge; founded in 1082 by Alwin 
 Child, and was made an abbey t. Eic. II. 
 
14 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLDNlAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 formed ; that silence, the correction of what is amiss or 
 required reform rigidly obeyed, and that almsgiving and 
 hospitality are there carried out according to established 
 custom. The indebtedness of the house amounts to two 
 hundred and sixty-six marks. There are thirty-two 
 monks and one lay-brother. 
 
 We then made inquiry respecting the state and condi- 
 tion of Pontefract* priory, through Brother Thomas the 
 sacrist,t and William the hostelarj of the same, and to 
 all its due and required conventual observances. From 
 these we ascertained, that all such matters as are 
 accustomed to be observed in the cloister, are there duly 
 performed. We made out that the pecuniary obligations 
 incurred by the monastery, reach the sum of a thousand 
 marks ; and that the number of the brethren amount to 
 sixteen. 
 
 \_On a roll of parchment, length 21i inches, width 6| 
 inches. Endorsement Visitationes Anglib, anno 
 CCLXII, and below, Factum est ; the same also at 
 bottom of instrument. " Nouv. acq. latin," 2280, 
 No. 8 ; Bibliotheque Nationalc] 
 
 Report in 1275 and 1276 (3 and 4 Edw. 1.) by the 
 Gluniac Visitors of English subordinate hoitses, delegated 
 for the duty by Yves de Chassant, 26th Abbot of Gluni. 
 
 Visitation made in England, in the year of Our Lord 
 1275-6, by the Brothers, John, Prior of Wenlock, and 
 Arnulph (equerry; constable) to the Lord abbot of 
 Cluni. 
 
 Horton (Monks-Horton).§ On Thursday next before 
 
 * Pontefract was subject to the house of St. Marie de-la-Charite in France, and 
 was founded by Robert de Lacy temp. Rufus. It was dedicated to St. John the 
 Evangelist. See notes out of a chartulary of Saint John of Pontefract, Dods. MS , 
 Vol. 116, f. 52 (Bibl. Bodl.). 
 
 t The sacrist had charge of the church-vessels, treasure, books, ornaments, and 
 vestments. He had to account for the oblations made at the high and other altars, 
 superintended burials, provided wax for the altar-lights, as well as bread and wine 
 for the Eucharist. 
 
 J The hostelar, or official in charge of the hostelry, was entrusted with the care 
 of the guests and pilgriniB. 
 
 § Monks-Horton, near Hythe, in Kent, was founded t. Hen. II. by Eobert de 
 Vere. It was a cell to Lewes, and made denizen t. Edw. III. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 15 
 
 the Feast of St. Lucy the Virgin (13th Dec.) we made 
 our Visitation of Horton, one of the cells to Lewes. We 
 found twelve brethren, but two of the prescribed number 
 were wanting, and our intention was, had we been able 
 to have had access to Lewes, to have made up the right 
 number of resident monks. "We ascertained that the 
 Mass of the Blessed Virgin was not properly celebrated, 
 if at all, and we strictly enjoined that this office should 
 be daily celebrated with all due solemnity in the Chapel 
 of the said Virgin. 
 
 We discovered, also, that at the celebration of High 
 Mass, the convent dispensed entirely with the functions 
 of the deacon ; and inasmuch as this Church is one of 
 regular-canons [conventualis],* we further enjoined that 
 in future at this celebration the Gospel should be read 
 by one of the brotherhood, delegated to officiate as 
 deacon. 
 
 It came to our knowledge, that at the hour of 
 dinner (or chief meal) there was no Reader in the re- 
 fectory, no " Reader-at-table " to officiate at that tirne;f 
 a remissness which we strictly enjoined to be corrected 
 and remedied. 
 
 Again, we found that the conventual-seal was in 
 custody of two only of the brethren, and to them we 
 added another of the fraternity, in conformity with the 
 statutes. 
 
 We understood, likewise, that it was the custom that 
 two only of their number were appointed to hear con- 
 fessions, namely, the Prior and Sub- Prior, owing to the 
 above-named numerical deficiency of resident canons ; 
 we, therefore, appointed a third. 
 
 One of the fraternity, we heard, had sold a certain fur 
 habit or garment for forty pence ; we ordered that such 
 a practice should not be repeated. 
 
 * The word " conventualis " in the text, is explained by Du Cange thus : — 
 Conventualis ecolesia — a priory of canons-regular ; whilst conventualis locns 
 signifies a monastery, in which the number of the religious community is sufficient 
 to carry out the rule and statutes of the Order without hindrance. Perhaps the 
 last sense is more conformable to the Cluniac Order, although we have used the 
 word " canons." 
 
 ■f Lector mensse. 
 
16 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 In like manner we ascertained, that the community 
 made no use of sandals (or leggings)* on certain regulated 
 occasions, which we ordered to be remedied. 
 
 We gave the Prior himself, also, strict injunctions that 
 he should never on any account take upon himself to 
 ride without such leggings, and the use of a crupper 
 [postella] for his saddle. 
 
 We gave further orders, both to the Prior and the 
 convent, that they should on no account eat meat 
 [carnes] in the presence, or in the houses of secular 
 persons [coram secular es\ 
 
 In other respects the convent is in sufficiently good 
 order. 
 
 The liabilities of the house amount to eighty and a 
 half marks. 
 
 Bermondsey. On the day of St. Thomas the Martyr, 
 that is to say, 5 days after the Nativity (Dec. 29th), we 
 made our Visitation of the cell of Bermondsey, where 
 there are 20 monks. 
 
 The said house is burdened in debt to the extent of 
 1,000 marks of silver, owing to different creditors. In 
 addition to this, it pays an annuity of £100 to one of the 
 King's chaplains in perpetuity, viz., to himself and his 
 successors ; irrespective also of 5 estates, alienated by 
 one of its priors, the names of them being : Toioi'c 
 (Todwich ? York) ; Habingeburi (Halh'ngbury , Herts) ; 
 Wideford (Widford, Essex; Herts); Richemunt (Rich- 
 mond, Surr.); Benenio (? Bennington, Herts). 
 
 The visitors on the part of the prior of la Charite, 
 had already made their visitation of this house before 
 we came, and amended whatever was amiss. 
 
 Northampton (St. Andrew of). On Tuesday next after 
 the Epiphany of Our Lord (Jan. 6th), we entered on 
 our Visitation at Northampton. There are 30 brethren 
 in this convent, but the aforesaid visitors delegated by 
 the Prior of la Charite, had already made their visitation 
 of it before we came, and had corrected everything that 
 was to be amended. 
 
 * Sotulares corrigiati ; apparently sandals (Spelman, Gloss.); also buskins; 
 and a sort of leggings or boot used in riding, etc. (Du Cange). 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 17 
 
 The pecuniary obligations of this house amount to 700 
 marks sterling. 
 
 Montacute. Visitation made at Montacute on Sunday- 
 next after the Feast of the Blessed Martyr, St. Yinoent, 
 in the year aforesaid (Jan. 22nd). 
 
 The number of the brethren amount to 20. We 
 found that the altar-lights were not lighted, and we 
 gave strict instructions that this should be remedied. 
 We further found that on prescribed occasions, the com- 
 munity dispensed with the use of sandals (or leggings) 
 [sotularibus corrigiatis], and, moreover, that one and 
 all were in the habit of journeying and riding about 
 the country, eating and drinking indifferently in the 
 houses of laymen and secular persons. In the infirmary 
 the prescribed statute in regard to the reading of the 
 lessons (the lection), was not performed during the hour 
 of dinner, and we gave strict injunctions that all these 
 things should be corrected. We also enjoined the Prior 
 that he was on no account to attempt to ride out on 
 horseback without a crupper \_poslella] to his saddle, or 
 leggings ; neither were the brethren ever to abstain from 
 using the same leggings when required. 
 
 The indebtedness of the house is 190 marks, in addi- 
 tion to 100 marks elsewhere owing; not including the 
 necessary outlay for the repairs of the buildings, which 
 are in bad condition, and, in fact, almost in ruin. We 
 gave the strictest injunctions that no person, on any 
 account whatsoever, was to remain in the priory after the 
 hour of compline, without manifest and proper reason. 
 
 Farley. On Friday next before the Purification of the 
 Blessed Virgin (Feb. 2nd) we visited Farley, one of the 
 cells of Lewes. Here we found 18 monks and 2 lay 
 brethren, who appeared to conduct themselves sufficiently 
 well. On this occasion, as before at Montacute, we gave our 
 positive orders on the subject of the constant use of the 
 crupper, the leggings, the non-eating of meat before 
 seculars, the reading of the church-lessons in the in- 
 firmary, and against remaining in the convent after 
 [hours] compline [completorium].* 
 
 * Completorimn ; the religions service which completes or closes the daily 
 duties ; the last nocturnal office ; compline. 
 
 3 
 
18 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 This house has no debt whatever. 
 
 Wenlock. Visitation made at Wenlock on "Wednesday 
 next before the Feast of St. Vincent the Martyr (Jan. 
 22nd) in the same year_(sic). The religious community 
 amount to 40 monks, and 3 lay-brethren, who conduct 
 themselves with sufficient regularity. The visitors of 
 the Prior of la Charite" had already visited this house 
 before our arrival, and had corrected whatever was 
 found amiss. 
 
 As regards the use of the saddle-crupper and other 
 matters, we gave the same orders here as at Farley. 
 The Prior found the house upon his entering on office, 
 burdened to the extent of 1,750 marks; at the present 
 moment the debt amounts to 1,500 marks, but bears no 
 interest. 
 
 Lenton. On Friday next before the Festival of St. 
 Peter's Chair (Feb. 22nd) we entered on our Visitation 
 of Lenton, where there are 27 monks, and 4 lay-brethren. 
 The pecuniary obligation of this cell amounts to 180 
 marks, but without bearing any interest. On the subject 
 of the use of the crupper, the laced leggings, the eating 
 of meat before seculars, the reading of the lessons in 
 the infirmary, and against remaining in the convent after 
 hours at night, we issued the same injunctions as at 
 Montacute. It . came to our knowledge, that the lay 
 brethren were distinguishing themselves by using a red 
 (or russet) habit ; our orders were that in future the 
 distinguishing colour should be darker, and more ap- 
 proaching to black. Whatever else required amending, 
 we rectified. 
 
 Thetford. On Wednesday next after the Sunday 
 Reminiscere (2nd Sunday in Lent), we visited the cell of 
 Thetford, where the number of brethren amount to 24. 
 These all live with sufficient regularity, with the exception 
 of one, Ealph, the cellarer. This monk we found guilty 
 of incontinency, and living disreputably, whom we ex- 
 pelled and ordered to be removed to do penance at a 
 distant convent, together with another brother, named 
 Henry, whom we also removed elsewhere (or rusticated), 
 for serious and disgraceful injuries to one of the convent 
 servants. Here, again, as on former occasions, we gave 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLTJNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 19 
 
 our orders respecting the use of the saddle-crupper, the 
 riding boots or leggings, the eating of meat, reading in 
 the infirmary, and against remaining in the convent after 
 the hour of compline \_completorium\. 
 
 The pecuniary liabilities of this house amount to 804 
 marks. Moreover, there is a debt under the Chapter's 
 seal of 400 marks in respect of the convent's patron, the 
 Earl-Marshal. We issued injunction for the amendment 
 of any other irregularity. 
 
 Castle-Acre. On Saturday next after the above-named 
 Sunday Beminiscere (2nd Sunday in Lent), we under- 
 took our Visitation of Castle- Acre, a cell to Lewes. The 
 community here number 32, and their mode of life is 
 conducted with propriety and regularity. We issued 
 the same orders here as at Montacute. 
 
 The debt of this house amounts to £504 sterling. 
 
 Bromholme. On the Yigil of St. Gregory the Pope 
 (March 12th) we made our Visitation of Bromholme. 
 The number of the brethren here amount to 16, who 
 live sufficiently well and regularly. We gave the same 
 orders here as before. 
 
 The debt of this cell amounts to £120 sterling. We 
 corrected here whatever there was to be corrected. 
 
 Prittlewell. On Wednesday next before the Feast of 
 St. Benedict (March 21st) we continued our visitation 
 to Prittlewell, another cell to Lewes. There are 15 
 monks here. We corrected whatever was amiss, and 
 gave similar orders in other respects, as we had already 
 done at Parley. 
 
 The obligations of the house amount to £100 sterling. 
 
 Why we were not able to continue our Visitation to the 
 subordinate houses of Pontefract and Lewes, the bearer 
 of these presents will be able to explain verbally. 
 
 In testimony of the truth and correctness of all the 
 foregoing, the aforesaid visitors have hereunto affixed 
 their seals. 
 
 \_On a roll of parchment, 26 J long, and 5f inches wide ; 
 with the following endorsements Visitatio facta in 
 Anglia, anno M° CO LXX° V° inoipiente, 
 and below, Pactum est. " Nouv. acq. latin," 
 2280, No. 9 ; B.N.] 
 
20 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 Visitation of English Cluniac Houses in 1279 (7 Edw. L), 
 made by order of Yves de Ghassant, Abbot of Gluni, by the 
 Prior of Mont-Didier in France, and the English Prior of 
 Lenton. 
 
 Cells to the' Abbey of la Charite. 
 
 Visitation of England made in the year of Our Lord 
 1279, by the Priors of Mont-Didier in France,* and of 
 Lenton in Notts. 
 
 On the Yigil of the Feast of St. Margaret (July 20th) 
 we arrived at Bermondsey, in which cell, as a rule, there 
 ought to be 32 brethren, but at this time there were not 
 more than 18. We addressed the Prior and Convent 
 much in these words : — " How is it that the number of 
 your brethren have diminished ? " 
 
 To this the Prior answered that the Convent was over- 
 whelmed with debt ; and on that account, owing to 
 orders of the Diocesan, and the wish of the Abbot, some 
 of the monks had been withdrawn. 
 
 We then asked, what the debt of the house originally 
 amounted to, and to this the Prior made answer, stating 
 it to be 1,700 marks. We then asked what the debt was 
 at the present time, and his answer was 2,300 marks. 
 
 Thus he had increased the debt by 700 (sic) marks. 
 Upon this we said to him : — " Whereas the number of 
 monks were fewer during the last four years, of which you 
 have been Prior until this time, you ought to have dimin- 
 ished your debt, and not to have increased it; besides, you 
 admit yourself, Seigneur Prior, and your whole Convent 
 admits, as well as the official receivers and collectors of 
 your property, that you have received every year from 
 these last 100 marks and upwards, and that this was done 
 with a view of diminishing the debt; a thing never before 
 heard of. Thus, together with the 700 marks aforesaid 
 of the original debt, you have received upwards of 400 
 marks, and, in fact, almost 100 marks in addition, as all 
 here present now testify. Then, again, some time after 
 
 * Priory of Mont-Didier, in the diocese of Amiens (Somme, France) ; sub- 
 ordinate to Clnni. 
 
VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 21 
 
 you were first appointed, Seigneur Prior Henry had tem- 
 porary charge of the Convent, and he was an inmate of 
 it for a year and a half, more or less. You appear since 
 that time to have sold a property called Ompton 
 (? Hampton), which the purchaser was to hold in fee, 
 and for this you received upwards of 500 marks." 
 
 From a certain Adam de Straton, this same Prior 
 (John) received 700 marks, to be distributed over seven 
 years, for a wood which the former bought, called Ohavor, 
 and in this transaction there was something altogether 
 underhand or not straightforward. He received, also, 
 600 marks for the sale of other woods. Moreover, he 
 disposed of certain rents for £8, issuing out of meadows 
 held in fee at 200 marks. In addition to this, four other 
 estates have been demised, namely, Chor {Chart ?), 
 Almeborim (? Almondbury, York), Wydefort ( Widford, 
 Essex), Walbant (? Waltham), which the aforesaid Prior 
 Henry consigned to Adam de Straton to satisfy the 
 greater part of the debt which he (the aforesaid John) 
 had contracted, but which, in fact, he ought himself 
 to have liquidated. In addition to these estates, there ' 
 was another property called Richmond, worth six 
 (hundred) marks, also disposed of. Furthermore, he 
 appears to have purchased a property, called Bearmont 
 (? Beaumont, Essex), which he afterwards sold for 500 
 marks. 
 
 The brethren live correctly, and in accordance with 
 the rule of the Order, and their sacred and devotional 
 offices are becomingly performed ; a matter, in fact, which 
 we ought to have mentioned before. The necessaries 
 for the subsistence of the fraternity, in grain and stock, 
 were sufficient until the time of next harvest. 
 
 The Prior, after assuming the temporalities, in succes- 
 sion to his predecessor in office, Gilbert, appears to have 
 administered the Convent's affairs and its property badly 
 enough, taking over the house at that time with a debt of 
 from 300 to 400 marks ; but subsequent to the time of 
 Prior Henry, tbingswent from bad to worse; he augmented 
 the pecuniary obligations of the Convent by 2,300 marks, 
 and this on his own showing and admission. The state 
 
22 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 of this house is simply deplorable. "Whatever the said 
 Prior John may say, or promise, there are four properties 
 or manors entirely made over to this same Adam de 
 Straton, and he is only under obligation to reduce the 
 Convent's debt by 1,500 marks. 
 
 On Tuesday after the Feast of St. John the Evan- 
 gelist (July 10th), we arrived at Northampton,* a cell 
 subordinate to la Charity, and instituted inquiry into 
 its state. There are at this time the accustomed num- 
 ber of resident monks, namely, 25. Sometimes there 
 are more, and sometimes fewer. The Prior renders all 
 due obedience to his Diocesan, acknowledging his juris- 
 diction, and this has been the case for the last sixty years. 
 The brotherhood live according to rule, and all sacred and 
 devotional services are duly and properly celebrated. The 
 Convent has a sufficiency of grain and stock for the use 
 of the community, up to the time of the next harvest, 
 or longer. The Prior took over the house from the 
 Prior of Wenlock (namely, the Prior John, of whom we 
 have spoken), ostensibly with a debt of 272 marks, but 
 after the said John had resigned the priorate, he dis- 
 covered the Convent's liabilities to be, in fact, much 
 greater, the house being encumbered with an additional 
 debt of 100 marks, and upwards. At the present 
 moment its obligations amount to 200 marks, but Prior 
 Bernard, now in office, has leased an estate for five years, 
 named Bstotebite (? Eastby), to one of the creditors, 
 named Walter de Sham. It is valued at a yearly rental 
 of 100 shillings, and let for 400 marks, and of the term 
 three years have already expired. He has also renewed 
 or granted a fresh lease of another property (assigned on 
 a twelve years' lease by his predecessor, the said John), 
 at 250 marks. Of this lease eight years have already 
 expired, and the estate, which is called Sewell (? Swell, 
 Glouc), is valued at £35 per annum. Moreover, the 
 same Prior made over, for a large sum of money, to the 
 above Walter de Sham a living, or benefice, named 
 Bston (Eastern, N'hants) worth £60, belonging to the 
 Priory of Northampton. How this was all managed, 
 
 * For Charters of the Church of St. Andrew of Northampton, see Dods. M.S., 
 Vol. 79, fo. 9-12 (Bibl. Bodl.). 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 23 
 
 and other matters in connection with it, must be ex- 
 plained verbally, for it would take too long to put into 
 writing. The Prior says, that upon what remains he will 
 be able to hold on, and admits truly and honestly enough, 
 that when he first came he was without experience and 
 younger, and perhaps not very careful. Since that time, 
 by God's help, he carries on his affairs well, honestly, 
 and in earnest. At any rate the former administration 
 of this convent and its property by Prior John, above 
 alluded to, was most objectionable and negligent. The 
 conventual buildings are in good repair. 
 
 Cell subordinate to Cluni. 
 
 On the Feast of St. Peter ad Vincula (August 1st) we 
 arrived for our visitation of Montacute. The ordinary 
 number of resident monks (namely, 28) are here at this 
 time ; sometimes the brethren appear to have been fewer. 
 They perform their sacred offices devoutly, and lead 
 regular and exemplary lives. The conventual buildings 
 are for the greater part in good repair; all necessary 
 substance (as grain and stock) for the use of the com- 
 munity, is sufficient till the coming harvest. The Prior 
 took over the house from his predecessor, Dom Gilbert, 
 with a debt of 550 marks. When the Lord Abbot 
 (of Cluni) was sojourning here, its obligations amounted 
 to 300 marks, but that was 11 years ago. The debt at 
 present amounts to 200 marks, with an additional debt 
 of £42. Besides (a matter kept back), there is a report 
 that the tithe of one of its cells is not forthcoming, and 
 in addition to this, a certain non-resident canon or priest, 
 named Solomon of Rochester, has been constantly rob- 
 bing and defrauding the Prior for the last two years. The 
 reputation of this Prior has been somewhat, or rather, to 
 say the truth, very much vilified and blackened, and to an 
 extent that he is not likely to get over. Still, for my 
 own part, I firmly believe that he has been very unjustly 
 defamed. Of whom, and about whom, or other matters 
 relating thereto, it will be necessary to speak viva voce. 
 The Prior certainly seems to have been decidedly remiss 
 in his temporal administration of the priory, but by the 
 
24 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLTTNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 help of God he appears to have become, and now is, a 
 steady, discreet, obedient, and devout person. 
 
 The Cluni manor, or estate of Letcombe Regis, belong- 
 ing to the Lord Abbot, now leased by the Prior of Monta- 
 cute, is in a hazardous position, for the King's claims 
 upon it for arrears and debts amount to £180. Against 
 this, the Prior affirms that during the time he has held the 
 manor, he has paid £20. However, whatever is owing is 
 best known to the Lord Abbot himself. 
 
 The same may be said of two other estates, leased by 
 the mother-house to a certain knight, which appear in 
 equal danger; the said lessee having paid nothing during 
 the time he has held them.* 
 
 Cells to the Priory of St. Martin des Champs. 
 
 On Tuesday before the Feast of St. Lawrence (10th 
 August) we reached Barnstaple, a cell of St. Martin des 
 Champs. The brethren consist of a prior and five 
 monks, who live honestly, and in accordance with the 
 rule of the Order. Divine offices are properly conducted. 
 The brotherhood here numbered at one time somewhat 
 less, but the Ordinary (or Diocesan), whose jurisdiction 
 the Prior acknowledges, and has always acknowledged, 
 required him to have not less than five resident monks ; 
 indeed, he sometimes obliges him to have more. The 
 necessary quantity of grain and stock were far from 
 abundant in this establishment, but the time of harvest is 
 drawing near. The Prior (it would seem) had been en- 
 gaged in litigation with a neighbouring abbot, in respect 
 of a certain tithe, amounting to 15 marks, of which the 
 abbot had fraudulently deprived him. The latter, how- 
 ever, ultimately offered him £100, or something less (by 
 way of compensation) in order to cancel or quash the 
 matter. I was told, after leaving the priory, that the 
 Prior had accepted this money, so that the abbot of course 
 retains, and will continue to retain, the tithe in question. 
 "We certainly were under the impression that the Prior 
 had been unconcerned and lukewarm in maintaining his 
 
 * Alludes to two of the Cluni estates in England. 
 
VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 25 
 
 rights.* When he, the Prior, first took over the house, 
 he found it encumbered with a debt of 53 marks, with 
 an additional debt of 20 marks to one of the burgeois of 
 Paris. On none of these obligations has he paid anything ; 
 neither has he paid another six marks, owing to the Prior 
 of St. Martin, out of the aforesaid debt of 53 marks, and 
 is under the impression that he only owes £20. He has 
 enclosed the priory with a precinct wall, sufficiently 
 effective, although only of earth. He has also built a small 
 grange or farmstead. The other conventual buildings 
 are sufficient, and appear to be in good repair. There is 
 a good and handsome church, and solidly constructed. 
 
 Of the aforesaid brethren he has conferred the habit 
 on one [vestivit] ; another came by exchange into the 
 priory from Montacute, of which he (the Prior) had pre- 
 viously been the superior for four years. 
 
 On the Saturday following, the Prior of St. James of 
 Exeter, having been cited by us to attend in person, for 
 we knew that he was very poor, and would be much 
 inconvenienced by receiving us at his own priory, gave 
 us a true and faithful account of the condition of his 
 Convent ; and to this effect : — That he took over the 
 house, when he first came to it, with a debt of £8, but 
 at the present time its liabilities amount to £20, the chief 
 cause of such increased amount bein», that he had to 
 rebuild two mills which were falling into ruin, but are 
 now in good working order. Much of the property had 
 been alienated by his predecessor Theobald, (at the pre- 
 sent time Prior of Barnstaple), and this assertion he 
 made in that Prior's presence; neither could Prior 
 Theobald deny it. What those alienations were, may be 
 seen in a schedule which the Prior handed in to us. He 
 had only one colleague resident at the priory, a man 
 somewhat old, and no doubt of good and laudable repu- 
 tation, but not having been ordained, it is impossible 
 for the Divine offices to be regularly or properly con- 
 
 * Allusion seems to be made to the subject by Oliver (" Ecclesiastical Antiqui- 
 ties of Devon," Hi., 34), in which it is said, that in 1435 (according to the " Episcopal 
 Register of Exeter ") this, or a very similar dispute on the question of tithe, was 
 brought before the Bishop, in which case the question may have been revived. 
 For the foundation of the priory of St. Mary Magdalene, see Dods. MS., V., 14V, 
 f. 32 (Bibl. Bodl.). 
 
 4 
 
26 VISITATIONS Ol 1 ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 ducted. We therefore impressed upon him the necessity 
 of getting a canon from the Prior of Montacute. In this 
 he acquiesced, being what he himself wished, so that this 
 arrangement will remain in force until otherwise ordered 
 by the Prior of St. Martin-des-Champs. The Prior 
 is a good, worthy man, and renders all due obedience to 
 the Diocesan, but his convent is very poor. The church, 
 and priory generally, he reported as being in good con- 
 dition, as far as the buildings themselves go. He has 
 been there already four years. 
 
 Cell to St. Martin-des-Champs. 
 
 The same day the Prior of St. Clare arrived, whom we 
 had ordered to attend upon us. We had already under- 
 stood that this Prior and his colleague were leading an 
 immoral and incontinent life ; neither do they agree with 
 one another. The Divine offices are not only totally neg- 
 lected, but the goods of the church are for the most part 
 dissipated and alienated. The Prior takes upon himself 
 all sorts of manual labour, and acts more like a sub- 
 ordinate ; the establishment is not worth more than 72 
 marks, and for all this state of things the Prior and 
 Monseigneur the Abbot of St. Martin must provide what- 
 ever remedy they think fit. As far as constructions 
 or buildings go in the aforesaid house, they may be con- 
 sidered nil, for everything has been made away with. 
 
 Cells subordinate to Montacute. 
 
 On the Sunday following we arrived at Careswell, a 
 house subordinate to Montacute, where there are three 
 monks and a prior, who live commendably, honestly, 
 and according to rule. The Prior is a good man, and, 
 although an Englishman, humble, sensible, and discreet. 
 The church and conventual buildings are all in good con- 
 dition. The convent has no debt, and there is a sufficiency 
 of provisions to last until the next harvest. He took 
 over the house with a pecuniary obligation of 60 marks, 
 and has been there now three years. 
 
VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OTUNlAO FOUNDATIONS. 2? 
 
 Cell to Montacute. 
 
 On the following Tuesday, we came to St. Mary of 
 Holme, a cell subordinate to Montacute. There are 
 two monks and a prior, who live regularly and com- 
 mendably, and fulfil their different religious duties 
 according to the exigencies of the place, and the limited 
 number of the community. The Prior took over the house 
 with a debt of 20 marks, which is entirely liquidated, 
 and it now owes nothing. He has been Prior for three 
 years. The different buildiugs and church are in good 
 repair ; and the house has sufficient provisions to last until 
 next harvest. 
 
 Cells to the Priory of Lewes. 
 
 On the Sunday after we arrived at Farley, a house de- 
 pendent on Lewes. The number of the brethren amount 
 to 18, who live correctly and according to rule, and carry 
 out their Divine offices properly. Nevertheless, the Prior 
 has been publicly accused of immorality, usury,* disobe- 
 dience, and incontinency. This has been going on for the 
 last ten years, as he even himself distinctly admitted. He 
 acknowledges no obedience to superior authority, and 
 told us plainly, that he had no intention of attending the 
 Chapter General, and ignored all commands in that 
 respect. The house, otherwise, is not in debt, and as far 
 as temporal matters go, the supplies are abundant ; but in 
 its spiritual condition, as affects the said Prior, who is 
 most insubordinate and quite incorrigible, its short- 
 comings are manifestly great. 
 
 On the following Tuesday we came to Clifford, a cell to 
 Montacute. The brethren here number eight, indepen- 
 dent of the Prior. They live regular and good lives, and 
 all devotional offices and rites are properly conducted. 
 The Prior is an especially worthy man, and of good 
 report. He received the house, on his first appointment, 
 with a debt of 114 marks ; its liabilities are now reduced 
 to 100 marks. He put a new roof to the main building, 
 and thoroughly repaired it, for it was fast falling into 
 
 * For definition of " usury," as here understood, see Decretales Gregorii IX., 
 lib. V., f. 259. 
 
28 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CJJTNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 ruin. The priory is in a bad neighbourhood, its sur- 
 roundings being of the very worst. 
 
 House subordinate to the Priory of la Charite\ 
 
 On Friday after the Feast of St. Bartholomew (25th 
 August) we entered on our visitation of Wenlock, one of 
 the cells of la Charite. At the present time the number 
 of resident monks is only 35, whereas in olden time there 
 used to be 40 and upwards. They perform their Divine 
 offices properly, and live honestly and according to rule. 
 It is upwards of seven, or nearly eight years, since the 
 temporalities were made over to the present Prior, and 
 according to his own account he found it with liabilities 
 amounting to 1,700 marks; but such we ascertained was 
 far from being the case, the debt at the time in question 
 not amounting to more than 500 marks. Probably, 
 by the aid of what is in hand, and what is owing to 
 the house, the said 500 marks may be redeemed. But 
 the following will show the mode in which the said 
 Prior pretended to have taken over the Convent : — 
 " In such and such a locality [he made out] there is a 
 farm-house wanting, worth 200 marks. On another estate 
 a dwelling-house worth 100 marks is also non-existent. 
 On another estate 200 head of cattle, 100 milch cows, 
 3,000 sheep are unaccounted for. Certain silver utensils 
 are not forthcoming, valued at so much," etc. ; and in 
 thus reckoning up, and computing fictitious deficiencies in 
 that manner, he asserted the Convent's debt to amount 
 to the foregoing 1,700 marks, testifying to its truth, and 
 confirming such attestation both by his own seal and 
 that of the house. But the whole matter was a piece 
 of pure invention, and a downright fraud, for neither 
 cattle, cows, or sheep ever existed, as so set down; 
 neither could he, or anyone else, have pretended to have 
 even discovered any such deficiencies, or run up such a 
 total, either in respect of a longer or shorter period of 
 time, for this house happens to be, perhaps, one of the 
 richest and best endowed of any. 
 
 In addition to all this, he let on a life lease one of the 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLTJNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 29 
 
 convent's estates to a certain knight and his wife, and 
 for this he received 800 marks. Neither of the parties 
 are now living, so that the property has reverted 
 to him, the knight and his wife not having enjoyed it 
 above three years. Besides this, he made away with a 
 virgate of the convent's land to one of its officials 
 (named Simon), as a copyhold of inheritance, and on a 
 like tenure he gave the Priory's porter another virgate of 
 land. Again, to an official (named John Trecy) he 
 demised his own prebend for life, with horse and servant, 
 which he is thus entitled to hold as of the convent of 
 Wenlock during life. Seeing, however, that the said 
 John had conveyed to the Church of Wenlock a full 
 carrucate of land with all its belongings, this arrange- 
 ment may have had something redeemable in it, but in 
 spite of this, the Prior alienated this very same carrucate 
 of land to a party named Nicholas Brisbane, which he had 
 neither power or right to convey, so that of course he not 
 only got the equivalent, but probably has the money still. 
 He has thus been guilty of gross fraud in respect of the 
 church, which stands still unreleased from its original 
 engagement. Then again, to cite another case ; when the 
 Prior first came to Wenlock, he conveyed a yearly rent 
 of 15 marks on the revenues of the priory to Adam de 
 Straton, for which he gave him security by deed, under 
 his own and the Convent's hand ; but he has never satis- 
 fied this obligation in respect of one penny. The result of 
 this last business would plainly be, that if another Prior 
 succeeded him in the priorate, who did not chime in with 
 the arrangement, the said Adam would not only recover 
 the whole, both arrears and rent, but, what would be 
 worse, he would stand possessed of the property. More- 
 over, when the Lord Abbot [of Cluni] was in England, the 
 Prior affirmed that the debt of his convent amounted 
 to 2,200 marks, although he had then been in office for six 
 years ; but when I was at Berdmondsey he told me the 
 debt was only 800 marks. Coming here, as I have, during 
 his absence abroad (for he is out of the country), I have 
 not been able to ascertain the exact truth, either from the 
 brethren of the house, or from those whom the Convent's 
 
30 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLTTNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 debt of 500 marks chiefly concerns, and I have quite 
 come to the conclusion, that it is almost impossible to 
 elicit the truth from English monks. 
 
 All the foregoing I discovered to be, as stated, from the 
 Prior's own papers and legal documents, and I told him the 
 state of the case on his return from abroad ; at which he 
 appeared, of course, very much astonished. Certainly, if 
 this matter is well looked into, and thoroughly investi- 
 gated, it will be found that the liabilities of the house 
 exceed 1,800 marks. It is perfectly evident, and clear to 
 anyone of sense, that the Priory of "Wenlock will not only 
 be liable for this debt, but still greater loss and complica- 
 tions will arise in respect of Bermondsey and Northamp- 
 ton, if the present Prior remains any longer at his post. 
 He sells and alienates whatever he possibly can, and, 
 apart from this, is altogether a restless and discontented 
 character. In an underhand way, he is manoeuvring 
 to become elected, if he possibly can, to (the See of) 
 Rochester, and thus to make himself independent of 
 Cluni.* In all this matter we see great peril impending. 
 
 Cells to the Priory of Bermondsey. 
 
 On the following Monday we arrived at St. James of 
 Derby, a cell subordinate to Bermondsey. The house 
 consists of a prior and 2 monks ; the former is a worthy 
 and good man, and of exemplary report, and has only 
 come to take charge of the house since the last Feast of 
 the Purification. One of his colleagues leads a chaste 
 and honest life, which cannot, however, be said of the 
 other, who lives disreputably, and whom we have 
 expelled, and removed to do penancef at Bermondsey ; 
 whilst another has been substituted in his place. 
 
 Divine offices are rightly and properly conducted. 
 When he (the Prior) first came, he received it with a debt 
 of 40 shillings, but inasmuch as he found nothing in the 
 house, neither was able to obtain anything in the neigh- 
 bourhood, he was under the necessity of contracting a debt 
 
 * It seems strange that such a worthless character should be named as even 
 aspiring to a bishopric ! 
 t Husticated. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH 0LUN1A0 FOUNDATIONS. 31 
 
 of £4 10s. He was just on the point of getting in his 
 harvest, which will quite support him till next season. 
 The conventual buildings are sufficiently good, but the 
 roof of the church was in bad repair, and we told him to 
 get a new roof on it. 
 
 Cells immediately dependent on Oluni. 
 
 On Thursday after the Feast of St. Augustine (Sept. 
 6th), we came to Lenton, where there are 25 monks, the 
 usual complement, leading good and commendable lives, 
 and living according to rule. Devotional exercises are 
 also properly and solemnly conducted. The Prior is a 
 worthy, good man, of blameless repute. He found the 
 house with a money-debt of 935 marks, and one for 40 
 sacks of wool, (the cost of each being 15 marks), and of 
 these last he has paid for 32, and still owes for 8 sacks. 
 On the other hand, the convent is in debt to the amount 
 of 1030 marks, arising from a dispute with the Chapter 
 of Lichfield,* composed of rich and influential persons ; 
 some of them being about the King. The matter concerns 
 a yearly tithe of 250 marks. The Prior has already 
 expended 160 marks in litigation, and thinks he shall 
 have to incur further legal trouble, and carry the matter 
 either into the King's court (or the Roman court), t in 
 order to recover these 160 marks. Moreover, when he 
 first entered on his duties, he found an insufficiency of all 
 necessary provisions and sources of supply. He has also 
 had since then, to pay an annuity of 40 marks to the 
 outgoing Prior, which he can ill afford. There is another 
 debt of £40 on a certain property which originated with 
 a former Prior (Roger), and not contracted by him. 
 
 * This matter refers to litigation with the Dean and Chapter of Lichfield, 
 respecting the tithes of certain churches in the Peak of Derbyshire, originally 
 bestowed by William Peverell on the Priory of Lenton, but which, on the confisca- 
 tion (temp. Henry II.) of the Peverell estates, were granted by the King to his son, 
 John, B. of Mortaigne, who gave them to the Canons of Lichfield. (Harl. MS., 4630, 
 4799). Of. "Derbyshire Archaeological Soc. Journal," V., 133 seq. ; Godfrey, 
 "Hist, of Lenton." 
 
 ■f The word curia is alone given in the original. As the probable appeal would 
 be to Jiome, we consider that the word " Romano, " has been omitted rather than 
 that of "Regis;" the Roman Court being a more likely tribunal of appeal than 
 the King's Court. 
 
32 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 Cells to la Cbarite. 
 
 On Monday preceding the Feast of the Nativity of the 
 Blessed Virgin (Sept. 8th), we arrived at the Priory of 
 Monk-Bretton, accompanied by certain officers of the 
 Sheriff, Nicholas de . . . . 
 
 Knocking at the outer gate, we demanded admittance 
 in the name of our Lord Abbot, on whose service we had 
 come to carry out the visitation of the house. To this 
 we received no answer. Again and again the knocking 
 was repeated, but to our continued demand for admission 
 the portal-gate remained persistently closed. A certain 
 person, however, whose name was William de Biole, 
 seemed to be acting for the Prior and Sub-Prior and the 
 rest of the convent, on this occasion, and upon him, in 
 the presence of all, we forthwith proceeded to pass sen- 
 tence of excommunication ; which being done publickly 
 and in writing, we took our departure. The same day we 
 immediately reported the matter to the King, and to the 
 Sheriff, and in due course received the following commands 
 and instructions : — By the King we were ordered to take 
 into custody the above William de Riole ; and the Sheriff 
 directed us to force or make good our entrance into the 
 priory. As for myself, I quitted the spot, but left the 
 Prior of Montacute to await the necessary warrants and 
 summonses. On their arrival he returned to Monk- 
 Bretton priory, accompanied by the bailiff and other 
 sheriff's officers. On entering the priory, he at once 
 proceeded to the church, and knocked at the door of the 
 chapter-house. Certain of the inmates, habited in the 
 dress of the Order, were there ; some were sitting in the 
 cloisters. The visiting Prior then entered the chapter- 
 house, in order to carry out the duties of his office, but 
 not a single monk appeared, and being asked the reason, 
 the fraternity affirmed, one and all, that they had no inten- 
 tion of attending ; their Prior was away, and they would 
 not attend without him. Upon this the Prior of Montacute, 
 in presence of the entire assemblage, proceeded to pass 
 sentence of excommunication upon the said William, the 
 Prior, the Sub-Prior, and the whole contumacious com- 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 33 
 
 munity, proclaiming them so excommunicated on the part 
 of the Abbot of Cluni, and revoking at the same time the 
 compact or agreement which was in existence between 
 the priories, declared it null and void.* Upon this the 
 Prior of Pontefract withdrew at once, without either 
 eating or drinking, or holding any further communica- 
 tion with them. It will be imperative to interfere very 
 seriously in this matter, and consider what measures are 
 to be adopted. 
 
 Cells dependent on la Oharite. 
 
 The same day we came on to Pontefract, where the 
 brethren number 27, including the Prior. They properly 
 conduct and devoutly perform the Divine offices, leading 
 also honest and commendable lives. The conventual 
 buildings are well roofed, and in good repair, and 
 the Prior has added to them ; the church is good, as 
 also its ornamentation. As to its temporal wants, in 
 respect of food or provisions, they are both abundant 
 and sufficient until the next harvest. On his first appoint- 
 ment, he found the liabilities of the house to amount to 
 3,200 marks. It is 12 years since he first took it over, 
 and now the debt is reduced to 350 marks, or even less ; 
 and this the Prior affirmed in the presence of the whole 
 Convent, in which all that community agreed. In 
 addition to this, the Prior has obtained a small property 
 of 2 carrucates of land, which seems to be a profitable ac- 
 quisition. Moreover, 15 years ago the Convent incurred 
 an obligation of 400 marks, for which it made itself liable 
 for the Priory of Monk-Bretton ; but it holds bonds and 
 written securities from that house, by which the latter 
 indemnify and protect it against loss. 
 
 * Monk-Bretton, near Cudworth and Barnsley, in Yorkshire, was founded for 
 Cluniao monks, temp. Hen. II., by Adam FitzSwain. In 1269 this convent had a 
 dispute with the Priory of Pontefract, about 10 years before the above-named 
 occurrence, which was settled by arbitration in the presence of the Prior of York, 
 and some of the Friars-Preachers of Pontefract. The compact annulled on this 
 occasion, seems in some way to relate to this matter, and is possibly referred to in 
 the next Visitation report on Pontefract. A charter-book of Bretton is (or was) in 
 the possession of Mr. Wentworth, of Woolley. Extracts from a chartulary of the 
 priory, are also found among the Dodsworth MSS., Vol. 61, f. 32 ; and Vol. 62, 
 f. 48b. ; and Vol. 116, f. 29-38 (Bibl. Bodl.). 
 
 5 
 
34 VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 Cells dependent on Lewes. 
 
 On Monday following the Nativity of the Blessed 
 "Virgin (Sept. 8th), we arrived at Castle-Acre.* The 
 brethren number 35. They conduct themselves well, and 
 carry out the Divine offices and all other ecclesiastical 
 rites, in a proper manner. The liabilities of the house 
 amount now to 1,700 marks, but when the Prior first 
 came to it, the debt was only 600 marks. Another 
 debt, which it incurred and became responsible for, is 
 in respect of the present Abbot of Vezelay,t MiloJ, 
 at the time he was Prior of Lewes. There is an in- 
 sufficiency of grain, or what will be necessary to last, 
 till the coming harvest. The Prior is too extravagant. 
 He would resign gladly enough if he could, but the 
 difficulty is to find someone willing to replace him, and 
 take over the house. I reported the matter in question 
 to the Prior of Lewes. 
 
 The following Tuesday we got to Thetford. The Prior 
 of this house, named Vincent, found 13 monks when he 
 first came, but now their number has increased to 22. 
 They all lead commendable lives, and the Divine offices 
 are properly and devoutly conducted. The buildings 
 are in good repair, and the church and cloister re- 
 markably good and handsome. There is a sufficiency 
 of grain, stock and provisions to last until next harvest. 
 The debt of the house was 500 marks when the Prior 
 took it over, notwithstanding that his predecessor, 
 Prior Thomas, affirmed that its liabilities did not exceed 
 400 marks, with another debt of 300 marks, in respect 
 of its avoue ; but this last debt is liquidated. The 
 Prior of this house took in hand the repair of the con- 
 ventual buildings, and the construction of new farm- 
 houses, barns, etc., and laid out £100 towards them, 
 and it is to be hoped that he will accomplish the matter 
 satisfactorily, for he is a worthy, good man, and the 
 whole country is high in his praise. The house, however, 
 
 * Founded by William de Warenne, 1st E. of Surrey, 
 t Vezelay, Abbey (Tonne, France). 
 
 } Milo de Columbiers (or Columbers), was elected Prior of Lewes in 1268. He 
 resigned in 1274, on becoming Abbot of V6zelay. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLtJNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 35 
 
 is very much embarrassed and crippled, by the continued 
 abode there of the avoue, brother of the Earl Mar- 
 shal,* who costs the house more than the whole 
 religious community and Prior together. There was a 
 great complaint also made with reference to the loss of a 
 certain silver drinking-cup. 
 
 On the Thursday following we found ourselves at 
 Horksley, a house subordinate to Thetford, where the 
 brotherhood consist of 4 monks and a prior, all leading 
 good and regular lives, and rightly celebrating the 
 Divine offices. The Prior has not long entered on his 
 duties; he found the house with a debt of 40 marks, 
 which has since increased to 100, but from the surplus 
 which he will have by his coming harvest, he will be 
 able to redeem it by 40 marks. 
 
 The Sunday following we were at Prittlewell, a cell 
 to Lewes, where the brethren number 14, living good 
 and regular lives, observing the rule of the Order, and 
 properly conducting their Divine offices. The Prior had 
 to rebuild his church, but the other conventual build- 
 ings are in good repair, and the house has no other debt 
 than that of 500 marks, for which it is responsible in 
 respect of the present abbot of Vezelay, at the time he was 
 Prior of Lewes. The Prior is a worthy man, blameless, 
 and of good report. There is a sufficiency, although not 
 more than enough, of necessary food, to last till next 
 harvest. 
 
 On Friday after the Feast of St. Matthew the Apostle 
 (21st Sept.) we came to Lewes, where the brethren 
 amount to 50, living correctly, and in accordance 
 with the rule of the Order. When the temporalities 
 were made over to him, the Prior found the house 
 encumbered with a debt of 4,000 marks, but at the 
 present moment the amount is reduced to 2,800 marks, 
 leaving still a debt of 250 marks for the restoration 
 of the church, and 250 marks on another account. For 
 these sums certain silver vessels and utensils have 
 
 * Allusion is here made to the brother of the Earl Marshal, Roger Bigot, 5th 
 E. of Norfolk, who was nephew to Boger, the 4th Earl, and succeeded to the 
 honours in 1270. 
 
36 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 been pledged, and deposited as security. Moreover, 
 there is a balance on the wrong side in respect of a 
 contract for wool, of which no more could be pro- 
 vided by the Convent to the purchasers than amounted 
 to 100 marks. Again, there had been, and was, another 
 deficit in respect of the necessary grain and stock for the 
 use of the convent, reckoning from the first Sunday in 
 Lent to the coming harvest. A deficiency also existed 
 in other agricultural matters, amounting to 600 head 
 of cattle on some of their farms, with 400 swine, and 
 6,000 sheep ; and there is owing besides to wine dealers 
 an account to the amount of 25 casks of wine for the 
 past year; the cask of wine is reckoned at 4 marks 
 sterling. Another sum is due to the Lord Abbot [of 
 Cluni] amounting to 100 marks, in respect of the Con- 
 vent's customary annual tribute or pension. In short, 
 the Priory of Lewes is in such a financial condition, that 
 according to those who know it well, it will be very diffi- 
 cult to relieve its liabilities at all, and at the best it will 
 take upwards of 20 years to liquidate its debts, a state 
 of things, true and deplorable as it is, but tolerably 
 notorious, and how it has come to this condition, by 
 whose misrule caused, and from what other circum- 
 stances arising, is a matter also full well known. 
 
 Cell to the Priory of Lewes. 
 
 On the Wednesday following, we came to Monks- 
 Horton, where there are 13 brethren, conducting them- 
 selves well, leading honest lives, and carrying on their 
 various devotional exercises with regularity and pro- 
 priety. The spiritualities and temporalities of this priory 
 are in the most satisfactory condition ; the house owes 
 nothing, and the necessary amount of grain and stock 
 for the subsistence of the community is in superabund- 
 ance. The Prior, who is an Englishman, is a most excel- 
 lent man, and irreproachable in his life and character; 
 his reputation stands very high. He put a new roof to 
 the church, and has also thoroughly repaired the 
 
"VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OLUNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 37 
 
 cloisters ; and, thanks to him, the aforesaid house is 
 spiritually and temporally in perfect condition. 
 
 [On a narrow roll of parchment, consisting of three mem- 
 branes, tacked end to end, and written on both sides ; 
 length 27 inches, width 7| inches. Endorsed Visitatio 
 Anqlie anno II ' LXXIX. ; and beneath, Factum 
 est. " Nouv. acq. latin," 2280, No. II. ; B.N.] 
 
 [lhe ensuing descriptive enumeration of the English and 
 Scotch foundations of Gluni is undated, but from the con- 
 tents, appears to have been compiled from Visitation- reports 
 of 1298 (26 Edw. I.) ; 1390 (13 Bic. II.) ; and 1405 
 (6H.IV).] 
 
 Here follow the different abbeys, priories, and cells 
 directly or subordinately subject to the Church of Cluni, 
 in the province and kingdoms of England and Scotland. 
 
 First and foremost, is Paisley, an abbey in the diocese 
 of Glasgow, in which the fixed number of the brethren 
 amount to 25.* 
 
 Next, the abbey of Orossraguel, in the Glasgow diocese, 
 directly subject to that of Paisley, of which the brother- 
 hood in 1405 (6 Hen. TV.) numbered lO.f 
 
 [Glun%\. — The Priory of St. Pancras at Lewes, in 
 which the regulated number of monks should as a rule 
 be 35, although in olden times, according to some, 
 there have been as many as 45 or 50. Bight masses 
 should be celebrated here every day, of which three are 
 with chant (or musio), and these are set down in the table 
 of week-day lessons. The observance of the " washing 
 
 * The Abbey of Paisley, dedicated to SS. Mary, James, Milbnrga, and Mirin, 
 was a Cluniac foundation of the reformed Order of St. Benedict. It was founded 
 in 1163-4 by Walter Fitz-Alan, the first of the Stewarts, and Baron of Renfrew, 
 and colonized by monks from St. Milbnrga, of Wenlock. It was the burial place 
 of many of the Stewarts [Stuarts], until their accession to the throne of Soot- 
 land. 
 
 t Crossraguell, Crosragmol, or Croceraguell, was founded for Cluniac monks 
 from Paisley, by Dnncan, 1st Earl of Carriok, and was made exempt from it in 
 1244. The site was near Maybole, in Ayrshire. 
 
38 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNlAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 of the feet" [mandatum],* and almsgiving, are daily 
 followed, with the uniform upholding and performance 
 of the convent's rule. Of the five [immediate] affiliations 
 (of the abbey of Glum) this house is the second, and on 
 this subject there exists a decision arrived at in 1298 by 
 Bertrand (du Colombier) Abbot of Oluni, relating to this 
 priory, on being instituted to which, the Prior of Lewes 
 will be seen to pledge himself to many obligations. This 
 compact has, in fact, been annulled, having been revoked 
 by the decretal f of the Holy See on the former practice 
 of election, and is confirmed by letters apostolic in our 
 possession. 
 
 [Cluni]. — The Priory of Montacute, also, is imme- 
 diately dependent on the Abbey of Cluni, in which the 
 established number of the brotherhood is 34. There are 
 six daily masses, of which three are with chant (or 
 music), and three without (low masses), and these are given 
 in the table of lessons, save one, which is chanted in a 
 certain chapel dedicated to St. Michael. Hospitality, 
 almsgiving, and all things which are prescribed by 
 statute and rule, are duly and properly observed, and 
 the brethren assemble regularly for the daily chapter. 
 
 \Oluni\. — The Priory of Lenton, also, founded in 
 honour of the Holy Trinity, in the diocese of York, is 
 immediately subordinate to the mother-house of Cluni. 
 In this house the proper complement of the brethren 
 should be 32, although some maintain that there is no 
 fixed number. There are daily six masses celebrated, as 
 set down in the table of lessons, of which three are con- 
 ventual masses, with music, and three are low masses, 
 of which last, one is of the Trinity, and the remaining 
 two are masses "for the dead." Monastic obligations 
 are all duly and strictly observed. The founder of the 
 priory was William Peverell.J He and his successors are 
 
 * The observance of this prescribed custom took place daily, from the begin- 
 ning of Lent to the calends of November (Dm Cange) ; known also, as Mandatum 
 quotidianum ; and is not to be confounded with the " washing of feet" in Holy 
 week. 
 
 f Decretal ; law or decision made by the command of the Pope. 
 
 % See Charter of foundation of Lenton Priory, " Kecords of Cluni," i., pp 
 59-62. 
 
VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 39 
 
 under the obligation, as patrons, to transmit yearly to 
 the Church of Oluni a mark of silver, in acknowledgment 
 of the stipulations on that head when founded. This 
 obligation was confirmed by the King's letters patent. 
 
 [Charite-sur-Loire], — In the Priory of Bermondsey, a 
 cell to the Priory of la Charite, the constituted number 
 of monks should not be less than 24. There are daily 
 celebrated here five masses, as set forth in the table of 
 lessons; of these, three are with chant (music), and two 
 are "said," without music (or low masses), although 
 in former times there were six daily celebrations. 
 Hospitality, almsgiving, silence, and all other monastic 
 obligations and duties, as enjoined by rule, are well 
 observed. 
 
 \_Gharite-sur-Loire\. — The Priory, also, of St. Milburga 
 of Wenlock, is a cell to the same Priory of la Charity, 
 and its brotherhood number 40 monks. Every day 
 seven masses should be celebrated as a rule, and of 
 these, three are with chant (or music). Alms are daily 
 bestowed (on the poor), and all statutes prescribed by 
 the rule of the Order, are duly and strictly carried out. 
 
 [Charite-sur-Loire\. — The Priory of St. John the 
 Evangelist at Pontefract, one of canons-regular [con- 
 ventualis]'* is another cell immediately subordinate to la 
 Charite, and is situated on the confines (or borders) of 
 Scotland.! The accustomed number of monks (or resi- 
 dent brethren) in this house is 20 ; and there are four 
 "conventual masses " daily celebrated here,! of which 
 one is, however, " said," or without music, being notified 
 in the table of lessons. All duties and other monastic 
 obligations are duly performed. 
 
 \Lewes\. — The Priory of Castle-Acre is a cell or off- 
 shoot of Lewes Priory. The number of its monks 
 should, as a rule, be 26, and there are seven celebrations 
 
 * See foot-note, p. 15 antea, on this denomination. 
 
 t The site of Pontefract (as above) is a noteworthy instance of the imperfect 
 geographical knowledge of those days. The Scotch Abbey of Paisley remitted its 
 tribute or pension to the Mother-house through the Prior of Pontefract, as the 
 nearest English Cluniac house (S. " Eecords of Cluni," ii., p. 160). 
 
 J For particulars of " Conventual Mass," see " Catholic Dictionary," Addis 
 and Arnold. 1884. 
 
40 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLPNIAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 of the mass here daily, written down in the table of 
 lessons ; three of these are with chant (or music), and 
 four without either. It is said that in former times the 
 brotherhood were not limited to any fixed number, and 
 the brethren sometimes have been as many as 30, and 
 upwards. 
 
 [Lewes'] . — The Priory of Prittlewell is also subordinate 
 to Lewes priory, and is within the jurisdiction of 
 London,* the number of its brethren amounting to 24. 
 The only alms distributed to the poor are the remains or 
 leavings from the refectory, or what may be collected 
 from the Prior's table. Four daily masses are celebrated 
 in this priory, all of which are set down in the table of 
 lessons, and of these, three are with, and one without, 
 chant (or music). 
 
 [Lewes]. — The Priory of St. Mary Magdalene, of 
 Farley, is also a cell to Lewes. The brethren number 
 20, and of the six daily masses here celebrated, and 
 noted in the table of lessons, three are with chant (or 
 music). 
 
 [Levies], — Another cell to Lewes Priory is that of St. 
 Mary at Clifford. The number of monks amount to 
 11. There are daily celebrated here three masses with 
 chant, another mass " for the dead," and a mass " for 
 benefactors." Divine offices, hospitality, almsgiving, 
 and all monastic obligations and duties are here duly 
 performed, as far as it is possible. 
 
 [Castle Acre]. — Mendham is a cell subordinate to the 
 Priory of Castle Acre. The brethren amount to 9 in 
 number, and the fixed number of daily masses are three; 
 of these, two are with chant, and the other is " said " 
 throughout. 
 
 [St. Martin-des-Champs]. — The Priory of St. James at 
 Exeter consists of a Prior and one monk, and is a cell 
 directly subordinate to St. Martin-des-Champs. 
 
 * The word is " civitas " in the original, and must be taken inferentially. 
 The jurisdiction of the city (or rather of the Lord Mayor as Conservator of the 
 Thames), wonld place Prittlewell at its extreme eastern boundary. The parish 
 borders on the Thames, and is in the diocese of London, within the ecclesiastical 
 jurisdiction of whose Bishop it would lie. 
 
VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OLUNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 41 
 
 [St. Martin-des-Ohamps]. — The Priory of St. Mary 
 Magdalene, or known also as of St. Clare, is another cell 
 to St. Martin- des-Ohamps, and consists only of a Prior 
 and one monk. 
 
 [Lewes]. — The Priory of Monks-Horton is a cell 
 directly dependent on Lewes, in which, according to 
 some, the brethren should number at least 8, but, 
 according to other authority, the number should not be 
 less than 13. There are three masses daily celebrated, 
 viz., high mass, that of the Blessed Yirgin, and the third 
 for the dead. At high mass the deacon says (or sings) 
 the Gospel. The reading " at table " in the refectory, 
 during the dinner-hour, is strictly performed ; and the 
 care of the conventual-seal is in charge of three of the 
 community, namely, the Prior, Sub-Prior, and one other 
 of the brethren. 
 
 [Priory of Thetford]. — To this Priory, the cell of 
 •Wangford is directly subject, and the number of its 
 brethren is fixed by some at 5, and by others at 4 only. 
 The number of daily masses are two, and both celebra- 
 tions take place with chant (or music). 
 
 [Castle-Acre]. — Another cell to Castle- Acre priory is 
 that of Bromholme,* and is immediately subordinate to it. 
 The brethren number 25. 
 
 [Charite-sur-Loire]. — The Priory of St. Andrew of 
 Northampton is a cell directly subject to la Charite. 
 The number of monks belonging to it is fixed by some 
 at 25, by others at 30. There are five daily celebrations 
 of mass, of which three take place with music (or chant), 
 and the service is set down in the table of lessons. The 
 ordinary monks' loaves (or bread baked for them) 
 should weigh 52 [pounds?], and a tenth part of what is 
 baked for the conventual establishment is distributed to 
 the poor. 
 
 [Thetford]. — The Priory of Horksley is a cell directly 
 subject to the Priory of Thetford. The number of the 
 monks is stated by some to be 3, by others not to exceed 
 
 * It was at one time a cell to Castle-Acre, but was subsequently discharged 
 from all obligations to it, 
 
 6 
 
42 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH OUTNIAO FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 2. Divine service is celebrated here without chant (or 
 music), except mass and vespers. 
 
 [Lewes]. — Stanesgate Priory, is a cell to Lewes, and 
 consists of 2 monks, or is fixed by some at 3 monks for 
 its community. One mass should be celebrated here 
 daily, and that with chant (or music). 
 
 [Gluni]. — The Priory of St. Mary of Thetford is in the 
 diocese of Norwich, and a direct affiliation of the mother- 
 church of Cluni. The religious community comprise 
 22 monks, but according to some there is no determinate 
 number of its brethren. There are six daily masses 
 celebrated, three with chant (or music), and three with- 
 out (or low-masses). A tenth part of the bread is 
 reserved for distribution and almsgiving. All monastic 
 obligations and duties, in respect of the Order's rule and 
 statutes, are duly observed. 
 
 [Gluni]. — The Priory of Bromholme, or Baketun, is 
 directly subordinate to the mother-house of Oluni. 
 ■The brotherhood number 16. There are five masses 
 celebrated daily, three of which are with chant (or 
 music), and two are " said" throughout. It is asserted, 
 on the other hand, that four celebrations are the proper 
 number of services. All statutes and monastic duties 
 are well and thoroughly observed, and, according to the 
 visitation of 1390, there were at that time 18 monks, 
 including the Prior. In conformity with the agreement 
 or contract formerly in force between this house and the 
 Priory of Castle-Acre, to which it was at one time directly 
 subordinate, the vacant priorship, whenever it happened, 
 was accustomed to be filled up by the latter house. 
 
 [Priory of Montacute]. — To this Priory, that of Malpas 
 is a cell. 
 
 [Gharite-sur-Lot're]. — The Priory of St. Augustine of 
 Daventry, near Northampton, in which the. religious 
 community consist of 18 brethren, is a cell directly sub- 
 ject to the Priory of la Charite. 
 
 [Castle- Acre]. — In the Priory of Rainham [Normannes- 
 burg or Normannesberch], the community comprise the 
 Prior and 2 monks, and the cell is immediately subor- 
 dinate to the Priory of Castle-Acre. 
 
VISITATIONS OP ENGLISH OLUNtAO FOUNDATIONS. 43 
 
 The Priory also of Sleushara, is another cell bo it, 
 and consists of a Prior and 1 monk. There is one daily 
 celebration here. 
 
 [Lenton]. — 'The cell of Roche, subordinate to Lenton 
 Priory, consists of a Prior and 1 monk. 
 
 That of Kershal is another cell subject to Lenton, with 
 a Prior and 1 monk, and the celebration of mass takes 
 place here only once daily. 
 
 [Wenlock]. — To this priory, Dudley is a subordinate 
 cell. There are 4 monks in this house, and the Divine 
 office of mass takes place twice daily. One celebration 
 is with chant, the other is " said." 
 
 [Montacute]. — The Priory of Careswell is directly sub- 
 ject to that of Montacute. The number of the religious 
 community of this house is fixed by some at 3 monks, 
 including the Prior, or at 6 monks with the Prior. 
 
 [Montacute] . — The Priory of Holme is, also, a cell to 
 Montacute. The fraternity consist of the Prior and 2 
 brethren. 
 
 [Bermondsey], — The Priory of St. James, of Derby, is 
 directly subject as a cell to Bermondsey. It consists of 
 the Prior and 2 monks, and there is one daily celebration 
 of mass. 
 
 [Lewes]. — Tickford Priory, in which the religious com- 
 munity consist of 16 brethren, is directly subordinate to 
 Lewes. 
 
 [To the foregoing, follows the enumeration of the four 
 great Oluni estates in England, those, namely, of Letcombe 
 Regis {Berks), Offord-Gluny {Hunts), Tixover, and Manton 
 {But.)] 
 
 Extracted from the Records, Charters, and Evidences 
 among the Archives of the Abbey of Cluni, by us the 
 undersigned, public notaries, official scribes, and secre- 
 taries of the said Abbey. 
 
 (Signed) Cha.stellieb, 
 
 Pailliek. 
 
44 
 
 VISITATIONS OF ENGLISH CLTWIAC FOUNDATIONS. 
 
 [ Copy made by Lambert de Barive ; the original in a hand 
 of the \bth century (circa 1450) ; endorsed Benefioia 
 
 BEGULABIA OEDINIS ClUNIACENSIS IN BEGNIS ET 
 
 dominiis Anqlie et Scotie existentia. " Collec- 
 tion Morean," Vol. 283, f. 41-44 ; B.N.] 
 
Knfoecc* 
 
 ABBEYS, PRIORIES, SUBJECTS, &o. 
 
 [The letter "ti" after the page signifies "note.""] 
 
 Almondbury, 21. 
 Almoner, 11, 11 n. 
 Arles-sur-Tech (Perpignan), 9 n. 
 Auvergne, 6 n. 
 Avoue, 19, 34. 
 
 Bablew (priory) (Som.), 6. 
 
 Balme (abbey), 9 n. 
 
 Barnstaple (priory) (Dev.), 5, 6, 
 
 24, 25. 
 
 (Visitation of—), 24, 25. 
 
 Beaulieu (abbey) (Argonne), 9 n. 
 Bennington (Herts.), 16. 
 Benoit (St.) (on tbe Po), 9 n. 
 Bermondsey (Surr.), 5, 6, 13, 13 n, 
 
 20, 29, 30, 39, 43. 
 (Visitation of—), 16, 20, 21, 
 
 22, 39. 
 
 (cells to—), 30, 43. 
 
 Bigot (Eoger) (founder of Thet- 
 
 ford), 12 n. 
 
 (5th E. of Norfolk), 34 n. 
 
 (avoue of Thetford Priory), 
 
 34, 34 n. 
 Bourgogne (Fr.), 6 n. 
 Bretton (Monk Bretton) (York.), 
 
 6, 32, 33, 33 n. 
 -(disgraceful proceedings at — ), 
 
 32, 33. 
 
 — (Visitation of—), 32, 33. 
 (charter-book of), 33 n. 
 
 Bromholme (Norf.), 6, 19. 
 
 (Visitation of — ), 19, 
 
 41 w, 42. 
 
 41, 
 
 Careswell (priory) (Dev.), 6, 26, 
 
 43. 
 
 (Visitation of—), 26, 43. 
 
 Carrick (Duncan, 1st E. of), 37 n. 
 Castle- Acre (Visitation of — ), 19, 
 
 34. 
 (priory) (Norf.), 6, 19, 34. 
 
 (cells to—), 40, 41, 41 n, 42. 
 
 Cellarer, 11, 11 n, 18. 
 Chamberlain, 12, 13. 
 
 Chant, 39, 40, 41, 42. 
 Chapter (General-), 9, 9 n. 
 
 (Provincial-), 9 n. 
 
 Charite-sur-Loire (priory of), 9 n, 
 
 13, 22, 28, 32. 
 (cells subject to—), 32, 33, 
 
 39, 40, 41, 42, 43. 
 Charlieu (Loire), 9 n, 12, 12 n. 
 Chart (Kent), 21. 
 Church-lessons (reading of), 17. 
 Cistercian Order, 6. 
 Clare (St.), 41. 
 Clifford (Heref.), 6, 27, 40. 
 
 (Visitation of—), 27, 40. 
 
 Cluni (Order of—), 5, 6, 7, 9 n. 
 
 (affiliations of, in England 
 
 and Scotland), 5, 6. 
 
 ■ (affiliations of, in France, etc.), 
 
 9 n. 
 
 — (affiliations directly subject to, 
 in England), 23, 31, 37, 38, 42. 
 (provinces of the Order of — ), 
 
 5, 6, 6 n. 
 Columbiers (Milo de), 34, 34 n. 
 Completorium, 17, 17 n, 19. 
 
46 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Compline, 17, 17 n, 19. 
 
 Comprerlon (Catalonia), 9 re. 
 
 Confession, 15. 
 
 Constable, 14. 
 
 Conventual (conventualis) , 15, 15 re, 
 
 39, 39 re. 
 Conventual-seal, 15, 39, 41. 
 Court (King's) ( — Eoman), 81, 
 
 31 w. 
 Crossraguel (abbey), 37, 37 re. 
 Crupper (Saddle-), 17, 19,20. 
 Curia Romana, 31, 31 re. 
 
 Dauphine (Fr.), 6 re. 
 Daventry (N'hants), 6, 42. 
 Derby (St. James of), 6, 30, 43. 
 
 (Visitation of—), 30, 31, 43. 
 
 Diocesan, 7, 24. 
 
 Dudley priory (Wor.), 13 re, 43. 
 
 Earl-Marsbal, 34. 
 Eastby, 22. 
 Easton (N'hants), 22. 
 England (province of Cluni), 6 re, 9. 
 English Monks (their untruthful- 
 ness, in the 13th century), 30. 
 Exeter (St. James of), 25, 40. 
 (Visitation of—), 25, 26, 40. 
 
 Farley (Wilts), 6, 17, 19, 27, 40. 
 (Visitation of—), 17, 18, 27, 
 
 40. 
 Figeac (abbey of — ) (Lot), 9 re. 
 FitzAlan (Walter-) (founder of 
 
 Paisley), 37 n. 
 France (province of Cluni), 6 re., 
 
 Gascogne (province of Cluni), 6 re. 
 Gassicourt (Mantes), 11. 
 Germany (province of Cluni), 6 re, 
 
 9 re. 
 Gigny (Lyon), 9 re. 
 Glasgow (diocese of), 37. 
 Gregory (Pope — VII.), 7. 
 
 Hallingbury (Herts.), 16. 
 Hampton (Middx.), 21. 
 Hitcham (Norf.), 6. 
 
 Holme (Dor.), 6, 27, 43. 
 
 (Visitation of—), 27, 43. 
 
 Horksley (Essex), 6, 34, 41. 
 
 (Visitation of — ), 34, 41. 
 
 Horton (Monk's-Horton) (Kent), 
 
 6, 14, 14 re, 36. 
 (Visitation of—), 14, 15, 16, 
 
 36, 41. 
 
 (Conventual- seal of), 15. 
 
 Hostelar, 14, 14 re. 
 
 Italy (province of Cluni), 6 n, 9 re. 
 
 Kershall priory (Lane, Notts.), 6, 
 
 43. 
 King's Court {Gtiria Regis), 31, 
 
 31 re. 
 
 Lection, 17. 
 Lector-Menses, 15 n. 
 Leggings, 16, 16 n, 17. 
 Letcombe-Regis (Berks), 24, 43. 
 Lenton priory (Notts.), 6, 11 n, 
 18, 20, 31, 32. 
 
 (litigation of — with Lich- 
 field), 31, 31 n. 
 
 (Visitations of — ), 11, 18, 
 
 31, 32, 38. 
 
 (cells to — ), 43. 
 
 Lewes (St. Pancras, priory of), 5, 
 6, 9 re, 19, 37. 
 
 (the second affiliation of 
 
 Cluni), 6, 38. 
 
 - (financial condition of, in 
 1279), 35. 
 
 (Visitations of — ), 11, 35, 
 
 37, 38. 
 
 (cells to—), 15, 27, 34, 35, 
 
 36, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43. 
 Lichfield (canons of), 31, 31 n. 
 Lombardy (province of Cluni), 9 re. 
 London (jurisdiction of — ), 39 re. 
 Lorraine (province of Cluni), 6 re. 
 Lyon (province of Cluni), 6 re. 
 
 Malpas (priory) (Monm.), 6, 42. 
 Mandatum (mandatum quotidia- 
 num), 38. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 47 
 
 Manton, (Rutl.), 43. 
 
 Marcigny (Autun), 9 n. 
 
 Marie (St. — ■ de Najera), 9 n. 
 
 Martin (St. — des-Champs) (Paris), 
 9 n, 24, 26. 
 
 (cells to—), 40, 41. 
 
 Mass (High), 15. 
 
 (of the Blessed Virgin), 15. 
 
 (for the dead), 38, 40. 
 
 (for benefactors), 40. 
 
 (conventual-), 39, 39 n. 
 
 (low-), 38, 40, 41. 
 
 Melton-Mowbray (Leic.), 6. 
 
 Moissac (Cahors), 9 n. 
 
 Monk-Bretton (York.), S. Bretton. 
 
 Monks (English — ) (their un- 
 truthful character in the 13th 
 century), 30. 
 
 (favourable exceptions), 26, 
 
 36. 
 
 Monks-Horton (Kent), S. Horton. 
 
 Monks' loaves, 41. , 
 
 Monstierneuf (Poitiers), 9 n. 
 
 Montacute (Som.), 6, 17, 23, 38. 
 
 (Visitation of — ), 11, 11 w, 
 
 17, 23, 38. 
 
 (cells to—), 26, 27, 42, 43. 
 
 Mont-Didier (Amiens) , 20, 20 n. 
 
 Mozac (Clermont), 9 n. 
 
 Myndham (Mendham) (Suff.), 6, 
 40. 
 
 Nantua (Lyon), 9 n. 
 
 Norfolk (Eoger Bigot, 5th E. of), 
 
 34 n. 
 Normannesberch (Norf.), 6, 42. 
 Northampton (St. Andrew of), 6, 
 
 22, 41. 
 (Visitation of—), 13, 16, 22, 
 
 41. 
 Northampton nunnery, 6. 
 
 Offord Cluny (Hunts.), 43. 
 Ordinary (Diocesan), 7, 8, 34. 
 Order (monastic), S. Cluniac, Cis- 
 tercian, Prsemonstratensian. 
 
 Paisley (Ayr.) (Abbey of), 5, 9 n, 
 13 n, 37, 37 n. 
 
 Pancras (St., of Lewes), 5, 9 n. 
 
 S. Lewes. 
 Paray (Autun), 9 n. 
 Payerne (Lausanne), 9 n. 
 Pension (or tribute), 39 n. 
 Peter (the Venerable, Abbot of 
 
 Cluni), 6. 
 Peverell (William, founder of Len- 
 
 ton), 38, 38 n. 
 Poitou (province of Cluni), 6. 
 Pont St. Esprit (Gard.), 9 n. 
 Pontefract (York.), 6, 14 n, 19, 
 
 33, 39. 
 (Visitation of—), 14, 33, 39, 
 
 39 n. 
 Preen (Salop), 6. 
 Prior (Grand — of Cluni), 9 n. 
 
 (Claustral— of Cluni), 9 n. 
 
 Prittlewell (Essex), 6, 19, 35, 40. 
 (Visitation of—), 19, 35, 40, 
 
 41. 
 Procurator, 11. 
 Provence (province of Cluni), 6, 
 
 6 n, 9, 37. 
 Prsemonstratensian Order, 7. 
 
 Rainham priory (Norf.), 42. 
 Reader-at-table, 15, 17, 41. 
 
 in the Refectory, 15, 17, 41. 
 
 in the Infirmary, 17, 41. 
 
 Richmond (Surr.), 16. 
 Riding-boots, 16, 16 n. 
 Riole (Reole) (William de— ), 32, 
 
 33. 
 Roche (Notts), 43. 
 Rochester (Kent) (See of), 30. 
 
 Sacrist, 14, 14 n. 
 Saddle-crupper, 16, 17, 18, 19. 
 Saint Clare, 26. 
 
 (Visitation of—), 26. 
 
 St. James (of Exeter). S. Exeter. 
 
 (of Derby), 30. 
 
 St. Martin-des-Champs. S.Martin. 
 Saintonge (province of Cluni), 6n. 
 St. Syriac (Corn.), 6. 
 Sandals, 16, 16 n. 
 Sauxillanges (Clermont), 9 n. 
 Scotland (province of Cluni), 9, 37. 
 
48 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Seal (conventual — of Horton), 39, 
 
 41. 
 Sham (Walter de— ), 22. 
 Sleusham (Norf.), 6, 43. 
 Sotulares corrigiati, 16, 16 n. 
 Souvigny (Autun), 9 ». 
 Spain (province of Cluni), 6 n, 9 k. 
 Stanesgate priory (Essex), 6, 42. 
 Straton (Adam de), 21, 22. 
 Swell (Glou.), 22. 
 
 Table (of lessons), 38, 39, 40, 41, 
 
 42. 
 Tarentaise (province of Cluni), 6. 
 Thetford priory (Norf.), 6, 18, 34, 
 
 42. 
 (Visitation of—), 12, 12 n, 
 
 18, 34, 42. 
 
 (Patron of — ; avoue of — ), 
 
 19, 34. 
 
 (cells to—), 35, 41. 
 
 Thiers (Clermont), 9 n. 
 
 Tixover (Rut.), 43. 
 
 Todwick (York.), 16. 
 
 Trecy (John), 29. 
 
 Tykeford (priory) (Bucks), 6, 43. 
 
 Viennc (Isere), 6 n. 
 
 Visitation, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 passim. 
 
 Waltham (Essex), 21. 
 Wangford (Suff.), 6, 41. 
 Warenne (William de) (1st E. of 
 
 Surrey), 34 n. 
 Washing of the feet (rnandatum), 
 
 31, 38 n. 
 Wenlock (Salop), 6, 13 n, 14, 18, 
 
 22, 28, 39. 
 (Visitation of—), 13, 13 n, 
 
 18, 28, 29, 39. 
 
 (cells to—), 13 n, 43. 
 
 Widford (Essex), 16, 21. 
 
ORDINANCE FOE THE BETTER OBSERVANCE 
 OF THE OBITS AND SERVICES FOR THE 
 DEAD, THROUGHOUT THE SUBORDINATE 
 FOUNDATIONS OF CLUNI. 
 
 The following singular and important document, being 
 an Ordinance emanating from the Priory of la Charite 
 sur Loire, to its several affiliations in France and England, 
 should of right have found its place among the Charters 
 and Records of Oluni lately published, affecting this 
 country. It has, however, only recently been acquired 
 by the French National Library, and for its transcript, 
 made with his own hand, we have to tender our sincerest 
 obligations to M. Leopold Delisle, the eminent Director- 
 Greneral of that establishment.* The peculiar value and 
 interest which attach to this record, are a sufficient 
 apology for its present, though somewhat tardy publica- 
 tion, more especially as supplementing the foregoing 
 Visitations, with which it has no immediate connection. 
 The mode and order employed for transmitting notice 
 of deaths occurring among members of all Cluniac 
 foundations, subordinate to the Priory of la Charite, is 
 interestingly set forth, and affords a curious example of 
 the reciprocal system of announcing the fact, both in 
 France and England. Longueville, f in the vicinity of 
 Dieppe, was the priory named from which such notice, 
 occurring among French ecclesiastics, was to be for- 
 
 * M. Simeon Luce, in acknowledging his obligations to M. Leopold Delisle, 
 when editing his "Chronicles of Froissart," observes: — "Du reste, j'ai de vielle 
 date tant d' obligations a I'eminent diplomatiste, que depuis longtemps je ne les 
 compte plus." This remark applies, also, entirely to ourselves. 
 
 \ Longueville, in the Pays do Caux, lies between Dieppe and Eouen. It was 
 the seat of a Cluniac priory dedicated to St. Faith, and founded in 1093 by 
 Walter Giffard, Earl of Longueville in Normandy, and Earl of Buckingham in 
 England, who, dying in 1102, was there buried. Among other endowments, he 
 gave it the manor of Newton-Longville in Bucks, from which the cell there 
 founded derived its appellation. 
 
 Both the castle and monastery of Longueville were long known as Longueville- 
 Giffard (or Guiffard) j See mandate dated at Eouen (t. Hen. VI.), to the bailiff of 
 Cauz, to induct Robert Fabri to the chapel of the castle of Longneville-Guiffard 
 (Rymer ix., 713) ; and, in 1421, restitution of the temporalities is made to the 
 prior of St. Faith, Longueville-GuifEard (ib. x., 160). 
 
 7 
 
50 
 
 warded to England, and to which, on the other hand, 
 similar intelligence of deaths was to be brought occurring 
 among those of the same order in England. 
 
 For the due circulation of such information, it had 
 been customary in olden time, but had apparently some- 
 what fallen out of use, as we learn from the document, 
 to send messengers from one convent to all others of the 
 same order, notifying the decease of any member, or 
 members of the community. This laudable practice was 
 observed, to the intent that they might be remembered 
 in the masses, or services for the souls of the dead ; being 
 the doctrine of the efficacy of prayer for the departed. 
 
 The situation of Longueville Priory, from its vicinity 
 to Dieppe, was eminently adapted for this purpose of 
 communication, and that port was plainly selected as 
 the most accessible for the Sussex coast, from whence to 
 pass or repass the Channel, either for Lewes or Battle.* 
 Its prior (in conjunction with the priors and procurators 
 of all other Oluniac foundations), was called upon to 
 transmit and receive all such notices, as they arrived ; 
 and the infringement of this obligation, or its neglect, 
 was punishable by exclusion from communion of the 
 Church, and other penalties. This we learn from the 
 concluding words of the record. 
 
 Without such reciprocal interchange, troublesome and 
 tedious though it was, neither the Bead- (Bede-) rollf of 
 the order (soliciting the prayers of the faithful), or the 
 Obit-roll | (containing the deaths of the brethren and 
 their anniversary services), could be either properly 
 drawn up or recorded ; hence the Ordinance for the 
 renewal, and proper observance of the practice; from 
 a neglect of which (observes the document), the dead had 
 
 * Dieppe was opposite to Eye, one of the Cinque-Ports, and both these sea- 
 ports were much used in the days of the Plantagenet Kings, and even longer. 
 The latter was the ancient port of departure for the Continent, and to it, in 1572, 
 the refugees escaped from Dieppe. This last was from the earliest times, the 
 chief French port for the embarkation and disembarkation of troops, to and fro, 
 even when em route for Calais from this country. 
 
 + A bead (or bede) is tantamount to a prayer (Jacob, Law Diet.). The bead-roll 
 was a list of deceased persons, for the repose of whose souls a certain number of 
 prayers were recited, and as such was necessary and used for keeping the obit, 
 or anniversary of their death ; observing such days with prayers. 
 
 % Obits were the solemn services for the dead, or for the repose of a departed 
 soul, performed before interment ; as well as those on the anniversary of a per- 
 son's death. 
 
51 
 
 in many cases been deprived of that " holy and whole- 
 some thought," namely, the offering up of prayers, by 
 which they were loosed from their sins. 
 
 Universis presentes litteras inspecturis, frater 
 Johannes, humilis prior de Oaritate, & ejusdem loci con- 
 ventus, salutem in Domino. Cum sancta & salnbris sit 
 cogitatio pro defunctis orare ut a peccatis solvantur, 
 ne fratres sub domo de Oaritate ubilibet habitantes, de 
 hoc seculo migraturi, non auditis eorum obitibusj, quod 
 ob deferendorum brevium negligenciam multociens no- 
 vimus evenisse, debitis orationuin suffragiis defraudentur, 
 Nos, antiquum & pium statutum, in ecclesia nostra de 
 Karitate pro fatribus nostris defunctis hue usque lauda- 
 biliter observatum, renovare volentes, statuimus, et, ut 
 perpetuitatem obtineat, illud sanctum statutum appro- 
 bando unanimiter confirmamus, scilicet, quod uni famulo 
 in domo nostra de Caritate, deputato defunctorum fra- 
 trum brevibus deferendis provideatur, sicut hactenus et 
 diu est consuetum, statuentes ut idem famulus, quo- 
 tiens in eadem domo fratrem obire contigerit, infra 
 biduum post ipsius obitum iter arripiat, ejusdem fratris 
 breve § portaturus per omnes domos ad ecclesiam de 
 Karitate pertinentes citra mare Anglie constitutas. In 
 quacunque autem dictarum domorum venerit, quotiens 
 novum breve detulerit, una nocte sufficienter procurabi- 
 tur, & sex denarios monete currentis percipiet, a priore 
 vel procuratore sive celerario ejusdem domus sibi, 
 antequam dictam domum exeat, sine aliqua difficultate 
 persolvendos. Cum autem apud Longam Villain venerit, 
 ibidem breve dimittet, & cum litteris prioris vel con- 
 ventus ejusdem domus, si prior presens non f uerit, nomen 
 brevigeri tenoremque brevis continentibus, apud Karita- 
 tem redibit. Prior vero, vel celerarius de Longavilla, 
 per primum nuncium quern post breve susceptum in 
 Angliam transfretabit, illud destinabunt ad propinquio- 
 rem de domibus nostris in Anglia constitutis,|| ut inde ad 
 
 § Breve would be the deed announcing the death of a member of a monastic 
 fraternity ; it was also the circular notice or certificate of it, forwarded from one 
 convent to another of the same order ; breve mortuorum, or de defunctis, or pro 
 defunctis (Bu Cange). It was from this that the bead-roll, or register of deaths 
 to be prayed for was constituted. 
 
 I! The nearest Cluniac monastery would have been that of Lewes. 
 
52 
 
 alias domos possit transferri. IUud quoqne in virtute 
 obedientie firmiter precipimus omnibus prioribus et pro- 
 curatoribus domorum que sunt citra mare Anglie con- 
 stitute, ut ille in cujus domo frater decesserit, de brevi 
 transmittendo sibi provideat, ut infra triduum post ipsius 
 fatris obitum, nuncius ejus iter arripiat apud Karitatem, 
 dictum breve delaturus. Priores vero domorum nostraram 
 in Anglia positarum, infra octo dies post obitum fratrum 
 penes ipsos decedentium nuncios proprios, cum brevibus 
 fratrum defunctoruni, apud Longam Villam iter aggredi 
 faciant, & ipsi nuncii, cum illuc brevia detulerint antedicta, 
 cum litteris prioris vel conventus ejusdem domus, si 
 prior presens non fuerit, nomen nuncii tenoremque brevis 
 continentibus, ad domos redibunt unde missi fuerunt. 
 Que videlicet brevia, cum apud Longam Villam fuerint 
 deportata, ibidem conserventur, quousque per brevigerum 
 ejusdem domus, cum ad nos venerit, vel per nostrum, cum 
 illuc iverit, apud Caritatem deportentur. Omnium autem 
 domorum nostrarum fratribus firmiter injungimus ut, ea 
 die qua breve susceperint, pro fratibus defunctis quicquid 
 ordo Cluniacensis exigit facere non omittant. Quicumque 
 autem prior, vel procurator, ubilibet habitans, breve 
 fratris apud ipsum defuncti ad locum sibi determinatum 
 & infra terminum sibi prefixum, sicut superius est ex- 
 pressum, transmittere neglexerit, ex tunc in antea, 
 quousque illud transmiserit, potum omnimodo liquoris 
 preterquam aquam, & introitum ecclesie sibi noverit 
 interdictum. Actum anno Domini M° CC° XL septimo, 
 die Assumptionis beate Marie. 
 
 [Original draft ; among the Additional Latin MSS. 
 of the National Library of France; No. 2566, 
 mem. 4.] 
 
 bMe. 
 
 SOUTH COUNTIES PRESS LIMITED, 64, HIGH STREET, LEWES. 
 

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