Cornell University 
 Library 
 
 The original of this book is in 
 the Cornell University Library. 
 
 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
 the United States on the use of the text. 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924097555662 
 
CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 
 
 3 1924 097 555 662 
 
In compliance with current 
 
 copyright law, Cornell University 
 
 Library produced this 
 
 replacement volume on paper 
 
 that meets the ANSI Standard 
 
 Z39.48-1992 to replace the 
 
 irreparably deteriorated original. 
 
 2003 
 

 nfs^ 
 
 (fioviiell ^Uiircr^iti! 
 
 pibtm'ii 
 
 BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME | 
 
 FROM THE 
 
 
 SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND | 
 
 THE GIFT OF 
 
 
 Benrn W. Sage 
 1S91 
 
 ft, 3944- 6,9 
 
 2 3 /^"-^ 
 
CALENDAR 
 
 OF 
 
 LETTERS FROM THE MAYOR AND CORPORATION 
 OF THE CITY OF LONDON. 
 
CALENDAR 
 
 OF 
 
 LETTERS FROM THE MAYOR AND CORPORATION 
 OF THE CITY OF LONDON, 
 
 CIRCA 
 A.D. 1350—1370, 
 
 ENROLLED AND PRESERVED AMONG 
 
 THE ARCHIVES OF THE CORPORATION 
 
 AT THE GUILDHALL. 
 
 EDITED (WITH AN INTRODUCTION) BY 
 
 REGINALD R. SHARPE, D.C.L., 
 
 OF ST. JOHN'S COLL., OXFORD; RECORDS CLERK IN THE OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK 
 
 OF THE CITY OF LONDON. 
 
 PRINTED BY ORDER OF THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF LONDON, UNDER 
 THE DIRECTION OF THE LIBRARY COMMITTEE. 
 
 LONDON : 
 Printed by John C. Francis, Took's Court, E.G. 
 
 MDCCCLXXXV. 
 
 E,V. 
 w/1 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 The letters which are here shortly set out are inscribed on two 
 rolls preserved, among other records of the Corporation of the 
 City of London, in the Town Clerk's Office at the Guildhall. They 
 are enrolled, as will be seen, under the names of the various 
 Mayors during whose term of office they were dispatched, and 
 comprise a very brief period only, viz., A.D. 1350 — 1370, and this 
 not without a con-siderable hiatus, viz., A.D. 1360 — 1363 circa. 
 The rolls themselves contain twenty -nine and ten membranes 
 respectively, which, however, are not stitched together in strict 
 chronological order. Attention had been drawn to the earlier of 
 the rolls at least so far bapk as the year 1869, but the exist- 
 ence of the later (and smaller) roll was not discovered till some 
 years afterwards. Both of them were in a dilapidated state till very 
 recently, when they were placed, by direction of the Guildhall Library 
 Committee, in the custody of' Alfred Kingston, Esq., of the Public 
 Record Office, who kindly undertook to see them carefully repaired. 
 No other roll of a similar character has since come to light, although 
 it would, perhaps, be too much to say that there might not be others 
 lying still unobserved somewhere among the numerous and yet 
 uncalendared rolls in the possession of the City of London. Be 
 that as it may, it was not thought desirable to delay any longer 
 the printing an abstract of such letters as were contained in the 
 two rolls already discovered, and thus to render their contents more 
 accessible to the literary public ; and accordingly the Library Com- 
 mittee made a recommendation to that effect to the Court of 
 Common Council in July, 1883, and obtained permission to carry 
 the same into execution. 
 
VI INTRODUCTION. 
 
 It is not necessary here to enter at any length upon the different 
 subjects embraced by these letters. The letters speak for them- 
 selves, and serve to show, in greater relief, perhaps, than most 
 extant records of the same period, the status of the City of 
 London towards the latter half of the fourteenth centuiy and its 
 intercourse with the chief towns of Flanders and various munici- 
 palities at home. 
 
 Notwithstanding the fact that King Edward III. had in the 
 twenty-seventh year of his reign removed the staple of wool from 
 the Flemish town of Bruges to the English towns of Westminster, 
 Canterbury, Chichester, Exeter, Winchester, Bristol, Lincoln, York, 
 Norwich, Newcastle, and Hull for England ; to Dublin, Cork, 
 Waterford, and Drogheda for Ireland ; and to Carmarthen for 
 Wales ; still we find among these letters a larger proportion addressed 
 to the municipal authorities of Bruges than of any other town either 
 at home or abroad : a significant proof of the difficulty that always 
 besets an attempt to turn the tide of commerce into other 
 channels by arbitrary means. As a matter of history we know 
 that it was found necessary to repeal a part of this Act in 1360, 
 and that Calais still remained a staple till finally suppressed in 
 1369. An Act of Parliament* passed in that year confined the 
 staple of wool for the future to the following English ports, viz., 
 Newcastle, Hull, Boston, Yarmouth, Queenborough, Westminster, 
 Chichester, Winchester, Exeter, and Bristolf (the staples for Ireland 
 and Wales being left as before), and whilst prohibiting all denizens 
 to export any staple goods on pain of forfeiture of vessel and 
 cargo, besides imprisonment for a term of three years, permitted 
 alien merchants to carry their merchandise to any port whatever. 
 
 By far the larger portion of the letters consists of applications 
 made by the City of London to the authorities of provincial towns 
 to restore what had been taken by way of custom or toll from 
 citizens of London travelling with their merchandise. By charter 
 of Henry I. it had been expressly declared that the citizens of 
 
 * Statute 43 Edward III. cap. 1. 
 
 t Anderson's 'Origin of Commerce,' Dublin, 1790, vol. i. pp. 438, 468; 
 Macpherson's ' Annals of Commerce,' vol. i. p. 576. 
 
INTRODUCTION. Vll 
 
 London should be " quit and free, and all their goods, throughout 
 England and the ports of the sea, of and from all toll and passage 
 and lestage, and all other customs," and, further, that " if any shall 
 take toll or custom of any citizen of London, the citizens of London 
 shall take of the borough or town where toll or custom was so taken 
 so much as the man of London gave for toll and as he received 
 damage thereby." This exemption from toll and right of wither- 
 natn, as it was called, were subsequently confirmed by other sove- 
 reigns, and appear from these letters to have been at this period 
 m active force. The request thus made for the restoration of custom 
 illegally taken usually concluded with the hint that unless the 
 request were complied with, measures would be taken to annoy 
 the citizens of the offending town when they had occasion to repair 
 to the City of London. If little attention were paid to the first 
 application, another letter (called an alias), and often a third (called 
 a pluries), were dispatched, repeating even more peremptorily the 
 request for justice to be done to the citizen of London who had 
 thus suffered, until finally, and as a last resort, withernam^ was 
 formally granted against the offenders, and a precept issued to the 
 Sheriffs of London to carry it out. 
 
 Next to these letters in point of numbers come those addressed 
 by the Corporation of London to other towns, demanding the 
 surrender of apprentices who, after being duly bound in the City 
 of London to serve their masters for a fixed term, had run away 
 and taken refuge within their walls. 
 
 Apprentices were, and still are, enrolled in the Chamber of the 
 Guildhall of the City of London, and before the Chamberlain ; and 
 it was necessary that such enrolment should be made within the first 
 year of the apprenticeship, otherwise the apprentice might be dis- 
 charged. By the custom of the City an apprentice bound to a 
 freeman must be above fourteen and under twenty-one years of 
 age when bound, and must not be bound for a less term than seven 
 years.t If he should have been bound for any longer term, and duly 
 
 * Vide I. 45, 46, 159, pp. 103, 106. 
 
 t The question has been raised whether an apprentice by the custom of 
 London is compellable to serve after he has arrived at the age of twenty- 
 
Vlll INTRODUCTION. 
 
 enrolled, he was compelled, says Bohun,* to serve the full term, and 
 could not be discharged from his master after seven years' service 
 unless for a very reasonable cause. The same authority states that 
 if a master refused to make his apprentice free when the time of his 
 indentures had expired, such apprentice might force his master to 
 make him free by summoning him before the Court of Aldermen or 
 before the Chamberlain of London for the time being.f When an 
 apprentice purposed suing out his indentures, he did so by petition to 
 the Lord Mayor's Court.t This method of becoming a freeman of 
 the City of London, viz., by apprenticeship or servitude, was one of 
 the most ancient and, at the same time, one of the most useful 
 processes for obtaining permission to carry on a trade within the 
 liberties of the City, since all persons not free of the City, denomi- 
 nated " foreigners " or " strangers " (as was originally the case also at 
 Rome§), were debarred for many centuries from carrying on trade 
 within the City, either as wholesale or retail dealers. 
 
 Besides these letters relating to apprentices, there are others 
 requesting the restoration of goods and chattels of citizens of 
 London travelling through the country for commercial purposes, 
 which had been seized on suspicion by bailiffs of provincial 
 towns as having been unlawfully acquired ; there are also certi- 
 
 one years. Vide John William Eden's case, Law Reports, 2 Maule and 
 Selwyn, 226, where it was decided that a return to a Habeas Corpus for 
 the discharge of an apprentice above the age of twenty-one (stating the 
 custom of London that every citizen and freeman of the City may take as an 
 apprentice any person above the age of fourteen and under twenty-one to serve 
 for seven years and more) must show that the apprentice was within those ages 
 when he bound himself apprentice, for the Court will not intend that from matters 
 dehors the return. The Court refused leave to amend the return, 
 
 * ' Privilegia Londini,' p. 343. 
 
 + Ibid. p. 343. 
 
 X A large number of these petitions, dating back to the time of James I., are 
 still preserved at the Guildhall, whereby apprentices seek to be released from their 
 indentures because their masters had failed to enrol their indentures within 
 the proper time, or for ill-treatment at their masters' hands, or for not properly 
 teaching them their respective trades. 
 
 § Cf. Cicero ' De Ofificiis,' i. 12 : " Equidem illud etiam animadverto, quod, qui 
 proprio nomine perduellis esset, is hostis vocaretur, lenitate verbi tristitiam rei 
 mitigatam. Hostis enim, apud majores nostros, is dicebatur, quem nunc pere- 
 grinum dicimus." 
 
INTRODUCTION. IX 
 
 ficates of births, deaths, and marriages, as well as of ships' arrivals 
 in the port of London ; letters testimonial and of safe conduct 
 manifests of ships' cargoes, powers of attorney, and other commu- 
 nications, all of more or less interest. 
 
 If great restrictions were placed upon "foreigners" (i.e. non-freemen) 
 remaining for any length of time and trafficking within the liberties 
 of the City of London, they, on the other hand, enjoyed almost a 
 monopoly of the carrying trade at the time these letters were written, 
 and obtained privileges from the Crown denied to citizens. Indeed, 
 it appears that until the reign of Henry VIII. they engrossed the 
 whole external trade of the country.* The citizens of London, whilst 
 looking upon them with somewhat of a jealous eye, could not but 
 encourage the foreigners who thus brought merchandise to their port' 
 for their trade depended upon it ; but at the same time they can hardly 
 be blamed if they took measures to ensure such trade as came 
 within their jurisdiction passing exclusively through their own hands. 
 To this end they compelled the foreigner to sell by bulk or in gross, 
 and then only to citizens and within forty days, and after exacting a 
 tax for the liberty of trading at all, towards the support of the burdens 
 of the town. 
 
 The commodities which these letters show to have been at this 
 period chiefly imported and exported were wool, corn, wine, and 
 timber. Upon almost all of these a restriction either as to importa- 
 tion or exportation was imposed at various times, besides regula- 
 tions as to when, where, and at what price they should be sold after 
 they had arrived within the City of London. It is scarcely credible 
 at the present day that in 13S9 a statute was passed prohibiting 
 the exportation of corn to any foreign parts except Calais and 
 Gascony \\ and that it was not till ten years later that any native 
 
 * " The removal of the privileges of the Steelyard Company in 1520 marked 
 an epoch when the merchants of England should no longer depend on foreign 
 ships and mariners" (Doyle's ' The English in America,' p. 43). An attempt, how- 
 ever, had been made by Richard II. to encourage merchant shipping in England 
 by a statute passed in the fifth year of his reign, enacting that the importation of 
 wines should be effected in English ships only ; and this was afterwards confirmed 
 by statute 23 Henry VIII. cap. 7. 
 
 t Statute 34 Edward III. cap. 20. 
 
X INTRODUCTION. 
 
 of England, Ireland, or Wales, not being an artificer, was permitted 
 to go to Gascony to buy wines, and then only under such restrictions 
 that it is a marvel that any one availed himself of the licence* 
 
 These letters further testify to the importance of the herring 
 industry in England at this time, more especially at Yarmouth and 
 Kirkley. This, like other branches of commerce, however, was also 
 regulated by statute,! which limited and defined the order and 
 time of bringing and selling herring at Yarmouth Fair, provided 
 against their price being enhanced, fixed the number represented 
 by a hundred of herring to be six score, and by a last to be ten 
 thousand, and among other ordinances enacted that the ships called 
 " Pykers "J should freely buy fresh herring, in Kirkley and elsewhere, 
 without impeachment or disturbance of the hostelers of Yarmouth 
 or of any other, so always that no more herring be discharged in 
 Kirkley road out of the fishers' ships than might reasonably suffice 
 for charging the " Pykers," and that the fishers be compelled to 
 bring all the remnant of their herring to the fair at Yarmouth to 
 sell there, so that none sell herring in any place about the haven 
 of Yarmouth by seven miles. Lastly, it ordained that these regu- 
 lations should apply to all the towns of England where herring 
 were caught and dried. 
 
 It was probably due to the herring fisheries, and to the fact 
 that great quantities of wool were shipped from that port to Brabant, 
 Flanders, and Holland, that the town of Yarmouth figured in the 
 first complete roll of the English fleet, ordered to be made in 1347 
 by Edward III., as having supplied the largest number of vessels. g 
 It must be borne in mind that at that period, as also for a long 
 time subsequently, the English fleets were composed almost entirely 
 of merchant ships, and that it was by vessels of this description that 
 the seas were patrolled and protection afforded to commerce against 
 
 * Statute 43 Edward III. cap. 2. 
 
 t 31 Edward III. stat. 2, called "The Statute of Herrings" (Macpherson's 
 'Annals of Commerce,' vol. i. p. 556). 
 
 1 Small vessels belonging to London and other places employed in carrying 
 
 fish. 
 
 § Vide Lindsay's 'History of Merchant Shipping,' vol. i. p. 411. The list is 
 printed in Macpherson's 'Annals of Commerce,' vol. i. pp. 534-5- 
 
INTRODUCTION. XI 
 
 the attacks of pirates* who infested the North Sea and English 
 Channel. So terrible had the state of the highway of the sea 
 become that there were certain expeditions on which it was quite 
 impossible to venture except in such numbers as to defy attack.f 
 
 It was the custom for merchants of England, Scotland, and 
 Wales to go to Bordeaux for wine once a year, and in order the 
 better to resist the attacks of pirates, who were frequently on the 
 look-out to waylay them, they made the voyage at the same time, 
 for the sake of each other's company and protection. The number 
 of these vessels thus crossing the sea was frequently enormous.J 
 The members of the fleet were obliged to support each other in case 
 of attack, and if any loss were sustained owing to the flight of some of 
 the company, the fugitives were compelled to make it good.§ These 
 letters bring before us a case|| where the master of a ship which 
 had been freighted with a valuable cargo in Flanders had received 
 peremptory orders not to leave port until certain other large English 
 vessels were prepared to sail with him to London. In contravention 
 of these orders, however, he appears to have set sail on his own 
 account, probably with a view to appropriating the cargo to his 
 own use, for nothing was heard of him for some time, when at last 
 he was found at Southampton, to the Mayor and Bailiffs of which 
 town request is made for his arrest. As another instance of the 
 piratical tendencies of the Flemings we may adduce another letter 
 here enrolled,^! where the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 
 * A confederacy of North Sea pirates, called Vitaliani, are said to have seized 
 Bergen about the year 1348 with all its merchandise and inhabitants (including 
 English merchants), and to have returned to Germany with their booty (Ander- 
 son's ' Origin of Commerce,' vol. i. p. 427). 
 
 t " Les navires ne naviguaient point, comme aujourd'hui, isol^ment. Si les 
 routes de terre ^taient peu sures, la mer presentait encore bien moins de security ; 
 et, de meme que Ton ne saurait songer a franchir le desert autrement qu'en cara- 
 vane, il n'y avait qu'une flotte qui put affronter les perils de la travers^e." Michel, 
 ' Hist, du Commerce et de la Navigation k Bordeaux,' vol. i. p. 52. 
 
 X "This year [viz., A.D. 1350] 1,350 vessels sailed from Bordeaux, loaded 
 with iZA'^'i tuns of wine, being nearly 100 tuns in each vessel on an average." 
 Macpherson, vol. i. p. 541. 
 
 § Michel, vol. i. p. 56. 
 
 II I- 136. 
 T I. 212. 
 
Xll INTRODUCTION. 
 
 London complain to the Bailiff and good folk of the town of " Newe- 
 
 port," in Flanders, that a ship belonging to John Lovekyn, a citizen of 
 
 London, whilst sailing with a cargo of red herring from Great 
 
 Yarmouth to the port of London, had been seized off the port of 
 
 " Orewelle " in a time of peace by one Clays Cleward, sailing in a 
 
 ship of " Neweport," and been carried no one knew whither. 
 
 Of the pirates of Brittany we have a description given us in the 
 
 ' Libel of English Policie,'* not in any way complimentary to them : — 
 
 " And of this Britaine, who so trueth louis, 
 Are the greatest rouers and the greatest theeuis, 
 That haue bene in the sea many one yeere : 
 That our Marchants haue bought full dere." 
 
 One mode of obtaining redress when all other means failed was by 
 inducing the king to grant letters of marque to the aggrieved in- 
 dividual, and to let him take the law into his own hand and help 
 himself, much in the same way as we find withernam granted by 
 the City of London to those who had failed otherwise to obtain 
 satisfaction for an injury inflicted on land by a provincial town. Of 
 this we have an instance in the ' Libel ' just quoted. After describing 
 the efforts made by Edward IIL to induce the Duke of Brittany to 
 restrain the marauding habits of his subjects, it proceeds thus : — 
 " But when the king anon had taken heede ; 
 
 Hee in his herte set a judgment. 
 
 Without calling of any Parliament, 
 
 Or great tarry to take long aduise 
 
 To fortifie anon he did deuise 
 
 Of English Townes three, that is to say, 
 
 Dertemouth, Plymouth, the third it is Fowey : 
 
 And gaue hem helpe and notable puisance 
 
 With insistence set them in gouernance 
 
 Vpon pety Bretayne for to werre."t 
 
 As another proof in these letters of the dangers which beset 
 voyagers in the English Channel, or " the narrowe see " as it is called 
 in the ' Libel,' we find that in 1 364 the Mayor and Aldermen of the 
 City of London had occasion to inform the high and noble Monsieur 
 " Baudreyn de la Heuse,"t Admiral of France, and the authorities 
 
 * Temp. Henry V. circa; printed in Hakluyt's ' Voyages,' vol. i. p. 210. 
 t Hakluyt's 'Voyages,' vol. i. p. 211. 
 
 X Among those deputed guardians of the truce made in 1357 between 
 Edward III. and the King of France by the mediation of Cardinal Talleyrand 
 
INTRODUCTION. XIU 
 
 of the towns of Rouen, Harfleur, Caen, and Bayeux,* of an outrage 
 committed by certain seamen of Normandy, called " billecokes 
 claybakes," and others, who had captured a ship laden with white 
 tin from Cornwall,! and had divided the spoil among themselves. 
 For this act of piracy, which had taken place off Portland, compen- 
 sation was demanded, with what result we are not told. 
 
 So also in 1353 the king issued a writ to the Sheriff of London 
 to publicly proclaim that inasmuch as he had learnt that much 
 damage had been inflicted upon his subjects since the commencement 
 of the truce between him and his adversary of France, and that 
 pirates and other enemies occupied the sea for the purpose of way- 
 laying his vessels with which he purposed crossing to France, all 
 vessels of the port of London which were prepared, or were being 
 prepared, to cross to Gascony for wine, should assemble at the port 
 of " Chalcheford,"t thence to be conveyed to France by his own 
 
 and Cardinal St. Vital, we find " Le Baudra de la Heuse," " Le Baili de Cauxut," 
 and others appointed especially for Normandy, to act on behalf of France, and 
 the nominee of Philip of Navarre on behalf of England. Rymer's ' Fcedera,' 
 vol. iii. part i. p. 350. 
 
 * I. 207. 
 
 t The Phoenicians are supposed to have carried on a trade in tin with Corn- 
 wall and the Cassiterides or Scilly Isles at least as early as the year 500 B.C., on 
 the evidence of Herodotus, who mentions the islands thus :— ovVc vijo-ous olSa, 
 
 KacrcTiTipiSas eoucras, Ik tZv o /cacrcriTepos rjfiTv ^onq, e^ lcr;(aT»js 6' iav o re 
 
 (cao-o-tTepos rjfuv <i>on(} (iii. 115). He, however, confesses doubt as to their 
 existence in the absence of eye-witnesses from the west of Europe. The name 
 is said still to be preserved in Cassiter Street in Bodmin. Mr. Elton, on the 
 other hand (in his ' Origins of English History,' p. 9, note), unhesitatingly declares 
 that " the island Cassitera must of course have been in the Straits of Malacca, the 
 source of our modem supplies." In the year 1348 the merchants and others com- 
 plained to the Parliament that all the tin of Cornwall was bought and exported by 
 Tidman of Limburgh, and no Englishman could get any of it. They therefore 
 prayed that it might be freely sold to all merchants. But they received for answer 
 that it was a profit belonging to the Prince, and every lord might make his profit 
 of his own (Macpherson, 'Annals of Commerce,' vol. i. p. 537). Perhaps the cause 
 of Tidman of Limburgh enjoying this monopoly may be in some way connected 
 with the fact that this individual is named in Rymer with three others, merchants 
 of Almaine, as having taken in pledge the regal or great crown of England 
 for certain sums of money due to them by the king, and with whom the king 
 had, in 1344, come to some arrangement for its redemption (' Fcedera,' vol. iii. 
 part i. p. 7)- 
 
 t Also written " Chalchesord." 
 
XIV INTRODUCTION. 
 
 fleet, which had been ordered to the same place. This writ is 
 recorded in the archives* of the City of London, with a memorandum 
 that the original was in the hands of John de Stodeye, who was 
 at that time one of the Sheriffs. 
 
 By about the middle of the fourteenth century, however, we find 
 the Hanseatic League becoming so powerful at sea that they were 
 in a position not only to scour the Baltic and North Seas of all 
 pirates, for the protection of their goods, but also to enter upon a 
 war with the King of Denmark for demanding toll from their vessels 
 passing the Sound. We find also at this period a statutef made 
 expressly to enable those merchants who had been robbed at sea, 
 and whose goods so taken had found their way into England, to 
 recover the same upon producing reasonable proof of ownership, and 
 enacting that goods thrown on the shore by shipwreck should be 
 restored to the lawful owners upon payment of a reasonable salvage, 
 to be assessed by the Sheriffs or Bailiffs of the place. 
 
 One of these lettersj affords us a practical illustration of the law 
 of wreck at this time. It appears that one of two barrels of 
 " greywerk," which had been put on board a ship at Bruges by 
 Henry Ilyngham, a Hanse merchant, had been found on the fore- 
 shore belonging to some lord (name unknown), and been claimed by 
 him as " wrak," in the belief that all on board had perished. Evidence 
 having been brought before the Mayor and Aldermen of the City 
 of London as to the ownership of the property, and also to the fact 
 that none on board the ship had perished, they desired that the same 
 should be given up. We at once understand the full meaning of this 
 if we turn to a letter§ addressed by Edward IIL to Ralph Spigurnel, 
 admiral, commanding him to give up a vessel belonging to the Bishop 
 of Aberdeen, which, with two men and a cargo of merchandise on 
 board, had broken from its moorings near Aberdeen, and been driven 
 by stress of weather to Great Yarmouth ; and the reason for this 
 surrender is given in these words : " Quia secundum legem et con- 
 
 * Letter Book G, fol. ii. 
 
 t 27 Edward III. stat. 2, cap. 13. 
 
 XI. 213. 
 
 § Rymer's ' Foedera,' vol. iii. part ii. p. 766. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XV 
 
 suetudinem regni nostri, navis aliqua, in qui aliquod animal vivens 
 inventum fuerit, seu bona in navi ilia existentia, wreccum non sunt, 
 nee dici poterunt." 
 
 There are occasional references to the war* which was being inter- 
 mittently carried on between England and France, as, e.g., an 
 interesting letterj- addressed by Pope Innocent VI. to Charles IV., 
 Emperor of the Romans, begging him to use his influence with the 
 King of England and the Prince of Wales to effect the liberation of 
 King John of France, who had been taken prisoner at the battle of 
 Poitierst and conveyed to London. It is not clear how this letter 
 came to be here enrolled. It is not printed in Rymer's ' Foedera,' 
 where, however, a letter from the King of England to the Emperor is 
 to be found, acknowledging the receipt of two letters from him, and 
 declaring how gratified he would be if, by means of the Emperor's 
 mediation, a peace were to be effected.§ An insight also is afforded us 
 into certain fraudulent conversions of moneys received on behalf of the 
 ransom of the King of France by a letter|| addressed by John Pecche, 
 Mayor of the City of London, to all Justices or their Lieutenants (in 
 France), desiring them to certify under their seals the names of those 
 liable for contribution to the King's ransom and the respective 
 amounts, as it was understood that large sums had been collected in 
 their country which had not been accounted for; as well as by a 
 subsequent letter of protection^ granted by the same Mayor to one 
 John de Ville, clerk of the Queen Dowager of France, who was 
 suspected of malversation in this particular. 
 
 The interdependence or affiliation existing between municipal 
 boroughs in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries has hitherto 
 
 * I. 144, 145, 204. 
 
 t I. 250. 
 
 X An account of this battle is given in a letter from the Prince of Wales him- 
 self addressed to the Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London, 
 inscribed in Letter Book G of the City Records, fol. 53 b, a translation of which 
 is given in Riley's ' Memorials,' p. 285. 
 
 § Vol. iii. part i. p. 343. 
 
 II I. 252- 
 
 IT L 273. It will be seen that both these letters are enrolled out of their 
 
 proper place. 
 
XVI INTRODUCTION. 
 
 scarcely received that amount of attention to which such an im- 
 portant subject seems entitled. Most of those who have devoted 
 themselves to the early history of corporations have contented 
 themselves with giving scarcely more than a passing notice to the 
 similarity of laws and customs of certain boroughs, and to franchises 
 and privileges granted to one town identical with those granted 
 to another. This point, however, has not been lost sight of by Dr. 
 Charles Gross, who, in a very able dissertation on the Guild Merchant,* 
 remarks as follows: — "Wenn man die Geschichte des mittelalterlichen 
 Stadtewesens der verschiedenen Culturvolker Europas vergleicht, so 
 findet man iiberraschend viele Ziige von Familienahnlichkeit. Dies 
 gilt auch in mancher Beziehung von England." To which he adds 
 the following note : — " Ich will bloss auf einen solchen Zug hinweisen, 
 namlich die Filialverhaltnisse zwischen den Gerichten der verschie- 
 denen Stadte. In dieser Beziehung war es in England im Wesent- 
 lichen so bestellt wie in Deutschland, Frankreich, und Flandern"; 
 and refers his readers to the Archaeological " Journal,"f vol. xxvii. 
 pp. 460 seq., for " einige gute Beispiele von Appellation der einen 
 Stadt an die andere."+ 
 
 Turning to this passage, we find an application from a town in 
 Wales to the municipal authorities of Hereford for a certificate of such 
 privileges and customs as existed in the latter town ; and in answer 
 to this application a statement of the various franchises and customs 
 enjoyed by the burgesses of Hereford is set out at length for its 
 behoof The customs and privileges of Hereford were the standard 
 authority for those of many towns in Wales and on the border ; it 
 became necessary, therefore, for a town which had lately become 
 enfranchised and entitled to enjoy the same privileges as those of the 
 
 * ' Gilda Mercatoria, ein Beitrag zur Geschichte der Englischen Stadteverfas- 
 sung ' (Gottingen, 1883), p. 70. 
 
 t Mistake for yournal of the British Archaological Association. 
 
 X For an exhaustive treatment of this subject the reader is referred to an 
 article by the same writer which is about to appear in the next number of the 
 Antiquary, and a proof of which the editor of these letters has been kindly- 
 allowed to see. Dr. Gross there shows that London became, as it were, the parent 
 (directly or indirectly) of no less than twenty-seven municipalities, these having 
 laws and customs based upon those enjoyed by the citizens of the metropolis. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XVll 
 
 citizens of Hereford to apply for a certificate as to the nature of those 
 privileges. 
 
 In these letters we have another instance of a similar kind. The 
 charters granted to the towns of Oxford, Exeter, Gloucester, and 
 others conferred on their burgesses the same privileges and customs 
 as those enjoyed by the citizens of London ;* it need not be a matter 
 for surprise, therefore, if we find these towns occasionally sending to 
 the City of London to inquire about this or that custom as practised 
 in the metropolis. An application of this kind had evidently been 
 made in or about the year 1357 by the Mayor and Bailiffs of the town 
 of Oxford to the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London, asking 
 for information respecting certain customs of the City of London, and 
 more especially the manner of holding Pleas of Land in its Court of 
 Hustings, and the reply sent on this occasion is enrolled among these 
 letters. t 
 
 It is noteworthy that the charter granted to the burgesses of 
 Oxford by Henry III., unlike those granted to the other towns just 
 mentioned, expressly declared that whenever any dispute or doubt 
 should arise in any judgment as to what they ought to do, they 
 should send messengers to London, and that what the citizens of 
 London should decide thereon should be held firm and established.^ 
 
 Another certificate of custom, namely, as to assizes oi fresh force 
 and mort d' ancestor pleaded within the City of London, is also here 
 enrolled§ as having been sent by the Mayor and Aldermen, but 
 (unfortunately) it does not appear to whom. 
 
 Other letters show similarity of franchises existing in corporations 
 situated far apart. Thus we find the City of Dublin claiming for its 
 citizens exemption from payment of tonnage dues in London, and 
 threatening to seize the goods of a citizen of London in retaliation 
 
 ■"■ Cf. City Records, ' Liber Custumarum ' (Master of the Rolls Series), part ii. 
 pp. 667, 672, and Madox, ' Firma Burgi,' p. 134. 
 
 t I. 198. 
 
 X_ " Et si dubitaverint vel contenderint de judicio aliquo quod facere debeant 
 de hoc Londonias mittant nuntios suos ; et quod Londonienses inde judicabunt, 
 firmum et ratum habeant." 'Liber Custumarum' (Master of the Rolls Series), 
 vol. ii. p. 672. 
 
 § I. 228. 
 
 d2 
 
XVIU INTRODUCTION. 
 
 for such dues exacted from its merchants : to which the Mayor and 
 Aldermen of the City of London sent a reply* to the effect that it 
 was true that by writ of the King, enrolled in the Remembrances 
 of the City of London, f the merchants of the City of Dublin were 
 allowed to pass and repass quit of " murage," " pavage," " pontage," 
 and " kayage " {charges which citizens of London were equally exempt 
 from paying when travelling with their merchandise), but that there 
 was no record exempting them from " tonnage," which formed part 
 of the ferm due to the King by the citizens of London. 
 
 Once more, the Mayor of the City of London writes to the Burgo- 
 masters and Echevins of Bruges,:]: desiring them to see justice done to 
 two sisters, orphans, against whom a third sister had brought an 
 action to recover a share of the tenements possessed by their deceased 
 father in the town of Bruges, notwithstanding that the said sister, 
 having been already advanced by her father upon her marriage, 
 possessed no legal right to the said tenements, which ought to remain 
 to the other two daughters, according to the laws and customs of 
 Bruges, as was understood. 
 
 That a custom very similar to, if not altogether identical with, 
 this custom, prevailed also in the City of London, whereby the 
 advancement of children on their marriage in certain cases barred 
 any further claim to the father's customary estate, has been shown in 
 a note appended to this letter by the editor. 
 
 Lastly, let us consider for a moment the relationship which 
 existed between England and the Court of Rome at the period when 
 these letters were written. It will be remembered that nearly fifty 
 years previously, after violent quarrels between Philip the Fair of 
 France and Pope Boniface VIII., the residence of the Popes had at 
 length, during the Papacy of Clement V.,§ been removed from Rome, 
 
 * I. i66. 
 
 t Letter Book F, fol. 31.5. 
 
 X II. 46. 
 
 § " Hie quoque Clemens primus omnium papalem sedem de Roma usque 
 Avinionam transtulit." Higden's ' Polychron.' (Master of the Rolls Series), 
 vol. viii. p. 294. In the introduction to the above work (p. xi) the year 1309 is 
 given as the time when Clement left Rome for Avignon, where he and his suc- 
 cessors resided without interruption for a period of seventy years. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XIX 
 
 first to Lyons and then to Avignon. This, it was supposed, was done at 
 the bidding of the King of France, by whose influence Clement had 
 been elected. Seventy years are said to have elapsed, which acquired 
 the name of the " Babylonish Captivity,"* before a move was made 
 back to Rome again ; but this estimate can scarcely be strictly 
 accurate, unless what Walsingham says be true, namely, that no Pope 
 had been seen in Rome since the time of Boniface VIII. He 
 chronicles the migration and return under the year A.D. 1 367 thus : — 
 " Eodem anno circa principium mensis Mali, Papa Urbanus Quintus 
 de Aniviona [sic], cum plena curia, se transtulit versus Romam ; 
 quo circa festum Sancti Lucse Evangelistse sanus pervenit et summo 
 cum honore ab omnibus est receptus ; quia a tempore Papae Bone- 
 facii Octavi ibidem visus fuerat Papa nullus."f 
 
 It was when the Pope was thus residing at Avignon that a 
 gross fraud was attempted to be practised, as appears from a letter 
 here enrolled,]: upon the Mayor and Commonalty of the City 
 of London by Nicholas Hethe, who had given out that he was 
 on more intimate terms with the Holy Father at Avignon than 
 any other person of the English nation, and on the strength of 
 his promising to obtain bulls of absolution for the whole City of 
 London had received the sum of forty livres from Andrew Aubrey, 
 a citizen of London, and probably the same who was soon afterwards 
 Mayor. He was ordered at once to refund the money unless he 
 could get the bulls of absolution in the precise form sent to him 
 by the Corporation of London ; and a strong intimation was at 
 the same time given him that unless he acted honourably in the 
 matter steps would be taken to represent him in his true light to 
 the Holy Father, and that he would be proceeded against according 
 to law. Nothing more is heard of him in these letters, although 
 we find him represented elsewhere§ as being in difficulties, owing 
 a large sum to the King, and as having at one time secretly left 
 
 * Longman's 'Life and Times of Edward III.,' vol. i. pp. 66, 137. 
 
 t Walsingham, ' Hist. Anglicana ' (Master of the Rolls Series), vol. i. 
 
 p. 306. 
 
 t I. IS- 
 
 § Rymer's ' Foedera,' vol. iii. part i. p. 255, and Letters, p. S, note *. 
 
XX INTRODUCTION. 
 
 the country without payment of it. The King appears to have 
 dealt very leniently towards him, being content, even after his 
 once escaping from custody, to place him on parole, and not long 
 afterwards he set him entirely free, after taking security, be it 
 added, for the sum of money due. This was in 1353. In 1364 a 
 Nicholas Hethe again turns up, under circumstances which scarcely 
 leave any room for doubt as to his identity. He is styled in a 
 bull addressed by Pope Urban V. to Edward III.* a canon of the 
 Church of Lichfield.f and is represented as complaining of two of 
 his benefices having been unjustly kept from him. It may be 
 noticed that this was a very similar claim to that put forward by 
 him more than ten years before, which he was at that time com- 
 pelled to renounce. 
 
 The year 1350 was a year of jubilee at Rome, and the numbers 
 that left England for that city on this occasion may be gathered from 
 the licences granted to them by the King and to be found in Rymer.J 
 which allowed them, notwithstanding the general prohibition against 
 taking money out of the kingdom except for commercial purposes, 
 to take with them as much gold as was requisite for their reasonable 
 expenses. It was during his absence at Rome to keep this jubilee 
 that Cesario, Bishop of Sancta Maria de Rosis, appears, from 
 one of these letters,§ to have been unfortunate enough to lose 
 some valuable documents (including a bull of confirmation by 
 Pope Clement VI.) by fire, owing to the negligence of his 
 servant, to which fact the Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of 
 the City of London bear witness by letters patent under their 
 Common Seal. 
 
 It is just possible that it was on this occasion, and in this the 
 twenty-third year of Edward III. (and not, as represented in certain 
 
 * Rymer's ' Foedera,' vol. iii. part ii. p. 736. 
 
 t It is stated in Le Neve's 'Fasti Ecclesise Anglicana' that a Nicholas 
 "Hethe" wfas collated to a prebendal stall in Lichfield Cathedral December 16th, 
 1360 ; and also that a Nicholas " Heth" is said to have held a similar stall in the 
 same cathedral October 30th, 1376 (vol. i. pp. 618, 630). 
 
 t ' Foedera,' vol. iii. part i. p. 203. 
 
 § I. 52- 
 
INTRODUCTION. XXI 
 
 letters patent under the seal of the Mayoralty* the thirty-third), 
 that Richard Maury, Abbot of Middleton or Milton Abbots, jour- 
 neying to the Court of Rome, arrived at the City of London, and 
 there bought a bill of exchange on Rome, in payment for which 
 he tendered certain pieces of money, which the money-changers 
 declined to accept as genuine. The servant of the abbot having 
 about the same time purchased a horse in West Smithfield, and 
 the money which he paid to the vendor also proving to be bad, 
 steps were taken in the Mayor's Court against the abbot, on his 
 return from abroad, for being in possession of a quantity of 
 base coin, the prosecutor avowing his belief that it had been 
 manufactured by the abbot himself.f or else had been brought 
 by him into England from distant parts, as (added he) was very 
 probable. It appears, however, that the abbot had friends at 
 Court, for an order was sent to the Mayor and Sheriff, just as 
 the trial was about to come on, to bring him and his case before 
 the King himself and his Council, which, we are told, was accord- 
 ingly done. 
 
 In 1 35 1 the Statute of Provisors was passed in Parliament, which 
 again asserted the rights of the English Church, and rendered it 
 penal to procure any presentations from the Court of Rome, thus 
 securing the rights of patrons and electors, which had been extremely 
 encroached upon by the Pope. But resistance to " provisors " brought 
 new vexations. The patrons and electors who in the name of the 
 law withstood a Papal nominee were summoned to defend them- 
 
 * I. 202. 
 
 t Some abbots, e.g., the abbots of Bury St. Edmunds, of St. Augustine's, Can- 
 terbury, and (perhaps) also of Cirencester, had the privilege of coining money, but 
 it does not appear that the abbot mentioned here enjoyed that privilege [vide 
 Ruding's ' Annals of the Coinage of Britain,' vol. iii. pp. 34, 44, 129). By a statute 
 25 Edward III., stat. 5, cap. 2, counterfeiting the king's coin, or bringing into 
 the realm counterfeit coin, was made treason ; and accordingly Ralph Marshall, 
 Abbot of Missenden (co. Bucks), who had been convicted of coining and clipping 
 groats and sterlings in the manor of Lee, was condemned to be drawn and 
 hanged, but received the King's pardon (Ruding, vol. i. p. 444, note). Nor were 
 abbots the only ecclesiastics to whom the right of coining money was granted 
 by the Crown, for the same privilege was enjoyed, at different times, by the 
 Archbishops of Canterbury and York, as well as the Bishop of Durham and 
 others. 
 
XXll INTRODUCTION. 
 
 selves in the Papal Court ; and the question of the supremacy of 
 the Papal law over the law of the land put into the shade all 
 questions of minor importance. The pretension of the Pope 
 was met in 1353 by a statute* which forbade any questioning 
 of judgments in the King's Courts, and enacted that any one of the 
 King's subjects who should draw any out of the realm on a plea 
 whereof the cognizance pertained to the King's Courts, or should sue 
 in any other court to defeat or impeach the judgments given in the 
 King's Courts, should render himself liable to outlawry, imprisonment, 
 and forfeiture of lands and goods. This Act subsequently developed 
 into the well-known statute of Prcsmunire, passed in the reign of 
 Richard II. The Papacy still retained, however, a great deal of its 
 former influence in England, and in 1364 we find the Mayor and 
 Commonalty of the City of London recommendingf to the favour 
 of Pope Urban V. one Robert Pynk, a provincial prior of the 
 Dominican Order, who had for more than twenty years been engaged 
 in preaching the Word of God in their city, and was about to 
 present himself before his Holiness on some matter of business. In 
 the following year (so obstinately did the Papacy continue to assert 
 itself in England) Edward appealed to Parliament. " Complaints," 
 he said, " were constantly being made by his subjects to the Pope 
 as to matters which were cognizable in the King's Courts." The 
 practice of " provisors " was thus maintained in spite of the laws, 
 and " the laws, usages, ancient customs, and franchises of the king- 
 dom were thereby much hindered, the King's crown degraded, and 
 his person defamed." This appeal met with a hearty response from 
 Parliament, and the statutes against " provisors " and appeals were 
 solemnly confirmed. J 
 
 How close the connexion still remained between England and 
 the Court of Rome is illustrated by a letterg addressed by the Mayor 
 and Aldermen of the City of London to the Patriarch of Aquileia 
 in 1368, informing him that a suit which had been commenced before 
 
 * 27 Edward III. stat. i, cap. i. 
 
 t I. 241. 
 
 X Green's 'History of the English People,' vol. i. pp. 443-4. 
 
 § II. 48. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XXUl 
 
 them for debt had been stayed till further notice by order of the 
 King's Chancellor, as he had heard that another action for the 
 same debt was pending in the Court of Rome. 
 
 Let us now say a few words as to the character of the rolls them- 
 selves. How comes it that these are the only rolls of the kind 
 hitherto discovered among the archives of the Corporation, and 
 that even these are manifestly incomplete ? We may, perhaps, 
 find an answer to these questions if we consider the probable 
 origin of the rolls ; by whom the letters were in all likelihood 
 enrolled ; and the place where such records would ordinarily be 
 deposited. 
 
 From the fact that by far the greater portion of these letters 
 emanate from the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London, 
 and are under the seal of the Mayoralty,* one is led to believe that 
 they issued either from what is now spoken of as the Mayor's 
 Court (more accurately described as the Court of the Mayor and 
 Aldermen, held in the Utter or Outer Court), or else from the 
 Mayor and Aldermen sitting in the Inner Court as the Court of 
 Aldermen. Both these Courts were Courts of record. What seal (if 
 any) the Court of Aldermen (as such, sitting in the Inner Court) 
 were in the habit of using is uncertain ; but from an act of 
 Common Council passed in the time of Elizabethf — whereby it 
 was enacted and ordained that thenceforth no examination or depo- 
 sition for any matter in question between party and party, either 
 on this side the seas or beyond, or to be taken in perpetuam 
 rei inemoriam or otherwise, nor any exemplification or certificate 
 whatsoever, whereunto the seal of the office of Mayoralty of the 
 City should be fixed or had been accustomed to be fixed, should 
 
 * This seal was publicly destroyed by the Chamberlain, as being too small and 
 unbecoming the dignity of the City, in 1381, and a new seal delivered to William 
 Walworth the Mayor, to use the same according as his office of the Mayoralty 
 should demand and require (City Records, Letter Book H, fol. 132). 
 
 t I August, anno 22 Eliz. (City Records, Journal 21, fol. 61). 
 
XXIV INTRODUCTION. 
 
 be taken or done except only by the Common Clerk, and by 
 one of the four sworn attorneys of the Lord Mayor's Court, 
 such as the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen for the time 
 being should adjudge and think most fit for the same — it is evident 
 that in later times the Court of Aldermen had no small control over 
 the seal of the Mayor's Court. 
 
 The Mayor and Aldermen not infrequently for the more 
 important matters of the Corporation used also the Common 
 Seal* in early times, and a few instances are to be found among 
 these letters! of such a practice, but in most cases where a letter 
 is said to have been under the Common Seal the writers are described 
 as the Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty. 
 
 Internal and external evidence tends to show that these letters 
 form part of the records of the Mayor's Court rather than those 
 of the Court of Aldermen. Questions relating to apprentices and 
 orphans, letters of safe conduct, letters testimonial and requisitional, 
 manifests of ships' cargoes, and certificates of the freedom of the 
 City in order to claim exemption from toll, form the subject of 
 the larger portion of the letters, and these also were matters chiefly, 
 if not entirely, within the jurisdiction of the Mayor's Court. 
 
 One at least of the two rolls was discovered among Mayor's 
 Court records deposited in the Town Clerk's Office. How these 
 records came to be there is to be explained by the fact that the 
 Town Clerk for the time being — or, as he was formerly called, the 
 Common Clerk (and sometimes Secretary) of the City of London — 
 
 * In the fifth year of the reign of King Edward II. the citizens presented a 
 petition against the Mayor and Aldermen using the Common Seal without the 
 assent of the Commonalty having been previously obtained, and prayed that the 
 Common Seal might in future remain in a certain chest under six locks, whereof 
 three Aldermen should have each a key, and three good men of the Commonalty 
 should have the other three keys (City Records, Letter Book D, fol. 145(5). Also 
 among the ordinances for the good government of the City agreed to by the 
 Mayor, Aldermen, and citizens, and submitted to King Edward II. for his approval 
 in the twelfth year of his reign, there was one placing the Common Seal in the 
 custody of two Aldermen and of two others, commoners, to be chosen for this 
 purpose by the Commonalty. 
 
 t E.g. I. 246, II. 52 and 'j'i. It was not thought necessary to state in every 
 case the nature of the seal whenever recorded in the rolls. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XXV 
 
 had always acted as Registrar of the Mayor's Court down to the 
 beginning of the present century.* Under him, to assist in the 
 transaction of the business of the Court, were one or more clerks 
 (also called attorneys), whose appointment and dismissal were in 
 former days left to his discretion.! ^^ 14^4 the number of these 
 clerks was limited to four;t and their respective duties, as established 
 prior to 1537, may be gathered from the rules and orders which 
 were made in that year for the future regulation of the Court : — 
 " Hereaft' foloweth yn articles y° seuerall offices & rowmes of y' iiij 
 clerkes and attorneys of my lorde mayers co'te & what they haue 
 used, sev'ally to doo. And agreed by thys Co'te to be obs'uyd & 
 kept as hereafter ensuyth."§ 
 
 It was found that the youngest clerk had always been the 
 clerk of orphans, and made all calendars for orphanage, and entered 
 all recognizances and discharges of the said recognizances ; he had 
 also entered into the Journal all acts of Common Council, decrees, 
 proclamations, and precepts, and all other things necessary to be 
 entered for the business of the City. 
 
 The second clerk in office {i.e., the next to him in seniority) 
 had his attorney's fees and other profits to the same belonging. 
 
 The third clerk had always the enrolling of deeds and testaments|| 
 and the profits and fees thereof 
 
 The fourth clerk of the Court, who was at one time called 
 Secondary of the Court under the Town Clerk, had the taking 
 and entering of sureties in all actions, and the swearing of wardens 
 of crafts, receiving the fees attaching to his office. To him was 
 
 * The office of Registrar of the Mayor's Court was for the first time separated 
 from that of Town Clerk in 1801, upon the decease of Wilham Rix, Town Clerk. 
 
 t City Records, Journal 6, fol. 86. 
 
 X City Records, Journal 7, fol. 74^. 
 
 § City Records, Repertory 9, fol. 2513. 
 
 II I.e , in the Hustings, where a Court of the greatest antiquity is to this day 
 held. To it, as formerly to all County Courts, belonged the enrolment of deeds, 
 ■wills &c. In consequence of such enrolment lands in London customarily passed 
 by mere parole, any other voucher becoming unnecessary. From the time of the 
 statute 27 Henry VIII. c. 16, which required all bargains and sales of land to be 
 enrolled, down to quite modern times, various statutes have expressly directed 
 conveyances of property in London to be so enrolled. 
 
XXVI INTRODUCTION. 
 
 also entrusted one of the keys of a little chest wherein were locked 
 the keys of the chests of charters, another key of the same being 
 in the custody of the Town Clerk. 
 
 All the four clerks, moreover, had been accustomed to have the 
 keeping of all manner of records, rolls, books of customs, and laws 
 of the City, " and to studye and labour therin and to make kalenders 
 and brevyats of theym, to thentent they myght be rype and redy in 
 the same for ye busynesse of thys Cytie when nede shall requyre." 
 Certain regulations were then made for their future conduct : all 
 calendars in the custody of any of the clerks were to be brought into 
 the " book-house," so that none of the said " Books, Brevyats, or 
 Kalenders " should be kept secret by any of them from their fellows ; 
 old calendars were to be renewed ; and no record touching the liberty 
 of the City was to be shown to any person without express per- 
 mission of the Lord Mayor, Recorder, and Town Clerk for the time 
 being, or of two of them ; they were to continue to attend the Court 
 of the Lord Mayor and Aldermen every Court day, and to bring such 
 books and other writings as were called for ; to take pains in writing 
 the books and other business of the City, as well as to write the residue 
 of the charters belonging to the City that remained unwritten. Here- 
 upon the four clerks were solemnly sworn. 
 
 They obtained the name of attorneys from their having been 
 accustomed to act as such in the Court of the Lord Mayor and 
 Aldermen, called " the Chauncery in bylles and answers betwene 
 partye and partye." The reversion of their office was from the 
 earliest times usually granted for a consideration by the Town 
 Clerk, and afterwards by the Lord Mayor. In 1777 a report* of a 
 Committee appointed to inquire into the state of the City's Cash 
 from the year 1765 to the year 1775 informed the Court of Common 
 Council that they " find that the several Places or Offices of the four 
 Common Pleaders, the four Attornies of the Mayor's Court, the Common 
 Cryer's Youngman, and the Five other Youngmen of the Lord Mayor's 
 Household, together with the Eight City Waits, have been always 
 disposed of or alienated by the Lord Mayor for the time being." 
 The Committee then named certain sums of money which they 
 * City Records, Journal 67, fol. 351?. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XXVU 
 
 were of opinion should be fixed and settled for the alienation of 
 the above places, fixing the sum to be paid by each of the four 
 attorneys of the Mayor's Court at Sol. This report was agreed to. 
 It must be added, however, that in the month of November of the 
 previous year the Court of Common Council, on the recommendation 
 of the same Committee, had agreed to pay the Lord Mayor for 
 the time being the sum of i,ooo/. for his right of alienation of 
 offices, and that accordingly the above sum of 60/. was for the 
 future to be paid into the City's Chamber. 
 
 It is clear from what appears above that the whole business of 
 writing up the various records of the City fell upon these four clerks or 
 attorneys of the Mayor's Court, and that previous to 1537 it had been 
 the custom for each of them to keep the calendar or other document 
 on which he was working in his own custody, the office of attorney 
 being probably even at that time a purchasable place. 
 
 If such a lax system as this had prevailed with them from the 
 earliest times, it is scarcely a matter for surprise if some of the records 
 of the City of London are found at the present day to be incomplete. 
 
 These orders appear to have had but little effect, for we find them 
 repeated in 165 1. On the 20th of January of that year the Recorder, 
 Sir John Wollaston, Knt. and Alderman, and the rest of the Com- 
 mittee appointed amongst other things to consider of regulating the 
 proceedings in the Mayor's Court, presented to the Court of Alder- 
 men certain other orders or rules. These are set out at length in 
 the City Records,* some of which, as more immediately bearing upon 
 the subject in hand, may be here briefly noticed. 
 
 Firstly, the Committee report " that for the avoiding of several! 
 inconveniencyes found by the not haveing of a publique and knowne 
 place for entering of Actions and Recording of Attachments made, 
 and that all actions entered may bee easily found, some certaine con- 
 venient place in or neere the Guild Hall bee appointed for that 
 purpose, wherein every of the four Clerkes being Attorneys in the 
 Maior's Court shall in their weeke attend in course by themselves or 
 servants for whome they wilbee answereable." 
 
 ♦ Repertory 62, fols. 39-41. 
 
XXVIU INTRODUCTION. 
 
 They then recommend (among other things) " that the Records 
 of that Court shalbee faithfully kept by those Clerkes either in that 
 place to bee appointed as aforesaid, or in the Thesa'ry, and not to bee 
 removed from either of those places without an order of Court, and 
 
 the same to be produced upon all occasions; that none of the 
 
 Records of this Court or of the Court of Hustings after it is entered 
 as a Record in Court bee carryed by any of the Clerkes or Attorneyes 
 or any other unto their owne houses, but bee kept in the aforesaid 
 place upon the severall Attorneyes files respectively, or in the 
 
 Thesaury; that all Depositions, Draughts of Certificates, Deedes, 
 
 Willes and Testaments, Recognizances for orphans, and especiall 
 orders of Court Repertoryes, and all other proceedings which ought 
 to bee made upp, filed, or entered, bee accordingly made upp, 
 filed, and entered by the Town Clerke and the severall Attorneyes 
 to whome the same doth belonge respectively, and left in the 
 Thesaury where the same ought to bee kept." 
 
 These and other orders or rules, having been read openly in 
 Court, were well liked and approved, and ordered to be entered on 
 the Repertory, to be thereafter duly observed. 
 
 In 1660, upon the motion of the Lord Mayor intimating that he 
 understood from the clerks of the Utter Court and others that of 
 late years the said Court had not been so duly attended by the Town 
 Clerk and his clerks, nor the business of their clients done with such 
 despatch as ought to be, to their extraordinary trouble and charge 
 and other inconveniences, which had " been occasioned by keeping 
 the office of the said Towne-Clerke in severall and distant places"; 
 and also the Court being informed of divers disorders in the said 
 Court, and that the orders formerly made touching the books and 
 records and the safe and well keeping of them in the book-house 
 were wholly neglected, a Committee was appointed to take the several 
 matters into consideration and to certify its opinions thereon.* It 
 does not readily appear from the City Records what was the result of 
 this reference. 
 
 Matters were not improved by the devastation wrought a few 
 years later upon the Guildhall and its surroundings by the Great 
 
 * Repertory 67, fol. 146. 
 
INTRODUCTION. XXIX 
 
 Fire. Steps were immediately taken to secure the records and 
 other writings of " daily use and necessity," by removing them to the 
 lodgings* lately held by Dr. Horton ;t but it was not till 1669 that 
 it was finally referred to the Committee for Public Works to appoint 
 a suitable office for the attorneys, " to be soe built and with such 
 speed as in their Judgem*' shall be most convenient and answerable 
 to the purpose menc'oned and intended in and by the same Report."J 
 That the records of the Mayor's Court suffered, together with 
 the rest of the City's archives, in the Great Fire appears from this 
 Report. The Committee to whom it had been referred to consider 
 of rules and orders for the better regulation of the " Utter Court " 
 inform the Court of Aldermen "that many files of the Utter 
 Court and some other things (now missing, besides what were burnt 
 in the dismall fire) for ought appeares utterly lost ";§ and therefore 
 it is in the highest degree probable that similar rolls of letters to 
 these whose contents are here set out in precis perished either directly 
 by fire (if not lost previously) or were lost in the general confusion 
 consequent to it. Presuming this to have been the case, there is 
 no necessity for further following the attorneys of the Mayor's Court 
 down to the decease of Mr. George Ashley, the last of a long line 
 of attorneys of that Court,|| who but recently died ; nor to pursue 
 
 * At Gresham House in Bishopsgate Street, which afforded at this crisis a 
 temporary shelter for the City Chamberlain and the Swordbearer as well as for the 
 Deputy Town Clerk. 
 
 t He held the Professorship of Divinity in Gresham College almost unin- 
 terruptedly from 1641 till 1661, when he was compelled to retire, owing to his 
 having infringed the conditions of his appointment by marrying, notwithstanding 
 his having previously succeeded in obtaining dispensations from the Lord Pro- 
 tector and King Charles II. 
 
 X Repertory 74, fols. 303-306^. 
 
 § Repertory 74, fol. 3051^. 
 
 II Mr. Charles James Orton, who is yet alive, was admitted, indeed, an attorney 
 of the Mayor's Court in 1848, but only upon his undertaking to execute a deed 
 releasing all right of alienation and all claim to the annuity and fees payable by 
 the Corporation, and also covenanting to submit to all such rules and regulations 
 as might be made for the government of the office and the practice of the Court, 
 and binding himself not to claim compensation in the event of its being deemed 
 expedient and practicable to extend the right to practise to other solicitors. This 
 extension was soon afterwards effected . 
 
XXX INTRODUCTION. 
 
 the history of the successive changes which took place in the 
 locality where from time to time the business of the Court was trans- 
 acted by the attorneys, namely, from the Guildhall to the Royal 
 Exchange, from the Royal Exchange to the Marshal's Office at the 
 Mansion House, and from the Mansion House to the Old Jewry, 
 the site of their last public office as a collective body. 
 
 The opinion of Mr. Woodthorpe Brandon, the present Judge of 
 the Mayor's Court, and one most competent to form a judgment 
 upon the matter, is that no early records of the Mayor's Court 
 found their way to the Royal Exchange, and that these, therefore, 
 escaped the ravages of the conflagration which took place there 
 in 1838. This opinion also seems warranted not only by the fact 
 that there is still preserved in the Town Clerk's Office a large 
 and valuable collection of early pleadings and other records of 
 this Court which escaped the Great Fire of 1666, but also by the 
 appearance of the charred remains of such records as did actually 
 suffer in the fire at the Royal Exchange, and were afterwards 
 removed to the Guildhall. 
 
 REGINALD R. SHARPE, 
 
 February, 1883. 
 
LETTERS FROM THE MAYOR, ETC, OF LONDON, 
 
 Circa a.d. 1350 — 1370. 
 
 CAI.ENDAR. 
 
 ROLL No. I. 
 
 Temp. WALTER TURK, MAYOR [a.d. 1349—50], continued. 
 
 1. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Chief Executor of the Ordinances of Justice, 
 the Priors of the Arts, and Standard-bearer of Justice, the 
 People and Commonalty of the City of Florence.* 
 
 Reminding them that they had been informed in a former 
 letter that " Jacobus Gerardi Gentilis," a citizen of Florence 
 residing in England, had seized various sums of money and 
 wool belonging to Henry Pycard, citizen of London, whilst 
 
 * The city of Florence about this period was governed by an officer called 
 the Gonfalonier (/. e.. Standard-bearer) of Justice, Priors or Rectors of the Arts 
 {i. e., trade guilds), the College of Goodmen {Buonomini), and the Gonfaloniers 
 of Companies. As early as the thirteenth century the wealthier guilds of Florence 
 had established a form of government or seignory of their own, consisting of 
 members chosen among themselves with the title of Priors, afterwards called 
 Consuls. They formed a chamber of commerce and manufactures, besides 
 exercising the functions of judicial magistrates in their respective trades and the 
 higher duties of administration. The Chief Executor of the Ordinances of Justice 
 held a position only inferior to a Podestd, an officer first created by Frederic 
 Barbarossa, and one who, to avoid local attachments, was always a foreigner, 
 and elected for one year only. Vide Napier's ' Florentine History,' vol. ii. 
 
 B 
 
being conveyed from England to Tuscany, and that request 
 had been made to them to cause the same to be returned 
 lest reprisal should be taken from their folk repairing to 
 London. Are surprised that nothing had been done in the 
 matter, and renew request, asking to be informed by letter 
 sent by bearer what they purpose doing in the matter. 
 
 London, 23rd September, s.a. Latin. 
 
 2. Walter Turk, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of London 
 
 to the Bailiffs of the Town of Dovor. 
 
 John de Egmentone, citizen of London, had complained 
 that, when lately visiting their part of the country, his horse 
 and other goods and chattels had been seized by them, on 
 suspicion of his being a man of evil disposition and of 
 having come by the same unlawfully. Certify that the said 
 John was a good man and loyal and had lawfully come by the 
 said horse and other goods, and request them to deliver up the 
 same in full. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 21st October, s.a. French. 
 
 3. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Colccstre (Col- 
 
 chester). 
 
 Informing them that John Olyver, a burgess of their town, 
 lately deceased, was indebted to Simon Chamberleyn, vintner, 
 in the sum of 20/. sterling, as by his letter obligatory sealed 
 with his seal appears. Pray them therefore to cause John 
 Fynch, burgess of their town, executor of the said Olyver, 
 to satisfy the said debt, in such a manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated when repairing to London in like 
 case or weightier. The Lord, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 LETTERS SENT temp. RICHARD DE KYSLYNGBURY, 
 MAYOR [A.D. 1350—1]. 
 
 4. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Chief Executor of the Ordinances of Justice, 
 
the Priors of the Arts, and Standard-bearer of Justice, the 
 People and Commonalty of the City of Florence.^ 
 
 Gregorio Bonacursi " de laterino," citizen of London, had 
 complained of having, to his no small loss and prejudice, had 
 a large quantity of merchandise, which he had sent into their 
 country, seized by certain men, as it were sons of iniquity, 
 not having God before their eyes, and wishing to stir up 
 strife, whose names they would learn from the bearer of these 
 letters ; and whereas he had demanded that satisfaction 
 should be made to him of persons and goods within the City 
 of London, both present and to come, they are earnestly 
 desired to cause the aforesaid merchandise to be restored, 
 otherwise they must not complain if their countrymen be 
 made to indemnify the said Gregorio in similar case. 
 
 London, 2nd October, s.a. Latin. 
 
 5. The same to the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of 
 Bristiit (Bristol). 
 
 Simon Fraunceys, citizen of London, had complained that 
 his goods and chattels, and the wool of Andrew Aubrey, citizen 
 of London, had been seized in their part of the country at 
 the suit of Nicholas Dobbesone and Thomas Resteleyh, 
 burgesses of Bristol, for one hundred golden crowns which 
 they had lent to Thomas Fraunceys, John Mokkyng, and 
 Robert de Hulle, on the understanding that the said Thomas 
 Fraunceys was at the time the agent of the said Simon. 
 Certify that the said Thomas Fraunceys had been found on the 
 oath of the said Simon and of other trustworthy citizens not 
 to have been his agent at the time of the loan, nor before, 
 nor had he any goods belonging to the said Simon ; nor had 
 the said Thomas Fraunceys, John Mokkyng, and Robert de 
 Hulle any lands, tenements, or goods within the liberties of 
 the City of London, wherewith to satisfy the claim of the 
 
 * Vide Letter No. i, note. 
 
 E 2 
 
said burgesses of Bristol. Pray them therefore to restore the 
 merchandise thus seized. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 London, 5 th November, s.a. French. 
 
 6. [The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London] to the 
 
 Bailiffs of the Town of Colcestre (Colchester). 
 
 Reminding them of a former letter* in which they were 
 requested to cause John Fynch, executor of the will of John 
 Olyver, late burgess of their town, to satisfy a debt of 20/. 
 sterling due to Simon Chamberleyn, citizen and vintner of 
 London. Express surprise that nothing as yet had been done 
 by them, so far as could be ascertained, and again desire them 
 to see justice done, that there might be no occasion to write 
 again on the same subject, or to annoy their folk when 
 repairing to London, owing to their default. 
 
 London, 6th November, s.a. French. 
 
 LETTERS SENT temp. RICHARD DE KYSLYNGBURY, 
 MAYOR [A.D. 1350 — i], continued. 
 
 7. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Dendermouche 
 (Dendermond), in Flanders. 
 
 Robert de Manyngfeld had complained that having 
 lately entrusted two coloured pieces of cloth of the value 
 of twelve marks sterling to John Scof, burgess of their 
 town, for the purpose of sale in the City of London, 
 the said John had, on receiving the cloths, suddenly and 
 privily quitted the City for Flanders, without paying the 
 said Robert for the same. Desire them to cause the said 
 John, who is understood now to be in their town, to satisfy 
 the said Robert of the debt, together with costs and damages 
 incurred through his default. 
 
 London, 6th November, s.a. French. 
 
 * Letter No. 3, supra. 
 
8. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Lenne (Lynn, co. 
 Norfolk). 
 
 John de Walkeme, citizen of London, had complained that 
 when he was journeying on a pilgrimage to the city of 
 Rome, his wife Lucy had by evil counsel in the mean time 
 removed his goods and chattels from out of the City of 
 London : that on his return he went from county court to 
 county court and from town to town until he discovered a 
 portion of the said goods in their town of "Lenne," where they 
 had been seized by their bailiffs. They are desired, therefore, 
 to assist the said John in the recovery of his goods which had 
 been lost in manner aforesaid. 
 
 No date. Fretich, 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor and 
 Bailiffs of Grymrnesby on behalf of the same John de 
 Walkerne. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 9. Letters Patent of Richard de Kyslyngbury, Mayor, and the 
 
 Aldermen of the City of London, sealed with the seal of the 
 Mayoralty of the same. 
 
 Certifying that Roger de la Panetrye was a citizen of 
 London, and ought to enjoy the liberties of the said City 
 whithersoever he may travel within the King's dominion ; and 
 requesting all who should see these letters to suffer the said 
 Roger and his merchants visiting their part of the country 
 with merchandise to come and go without demand of toll 
 or any manner of custom. 
 
 London, no date. French. 
 
 10. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 and Bailiffs of Oxeneford (Oxford). 
 
 Requesting them to favour and assist Thomas de Stokes, 
 citizen of London, and bearer of these letters, who had 
 
business to transact in their part of the country with George 
 le Paneter, one of the Serjeants of their town of " Oxeneford," 
 by reason of an agreement entered into between them, touching 
 which the said Thomas would more fully inform them by 
 word of mouth. 
 
 London, no date. French. 
 
 11, The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Reverend Father in Jesus Christ, Sir William de 
 Edyngton, Bishop of Wyncestre (Winchester), the King's 
 Treasurer. 
 
 ^Information had been sent to the King's Council of the 
 delivery of the wool which had been lately seized at the 
 suit of the merchant* [of] Adam Brabazon, and sufficient 
 mainprise had been tendered for the said Adam before the 
 Chancellor, who had refused to accept it without the Bishop's 
 consent. Pray him therefore to allow sufficient mainprise to 
 be taken for the production of the body of the said Adam 
 before the King and his Council, to submit at any time to 
 what the King and his Council might ordain. Express regard 
 fer the holy season which was approaching, and pray the 
 Lord may give him a happy and long life. 
 
 London, the morrow of the Feast of St. Thomas 
 the Apostle (21st December), s.a. French. 
 
 12. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Reverend Father in Jesus Christ, Sir Simon [IsHp], by the 
 grace of God Archbishop of Canterbury and Primate of all 
 England. 
 
 That it might please him to know that in respect of his 
 letters sent to them they had surrendered, and were willing 
 to surrender, all things touching William Croude, executor of 
 the will of John de Kyslyngbury, and Joan, daughter of the 
 said John ; and that at his coming he should be more fully 
 
 Agent. 
 
informed of the matter, that reason might be done to the said 
 poor woman according to law and equity. Pray God grant 
 him a long life and happy, and maintain his honours. 
 
 London, no date. French. 
 
 13. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 to the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Bristut 
 (Bristol). 
 
 Reminding them of their forrtier letter,* sealed with 
 the common seal of the City of London, wherein they 
 were requested to cause the goods and chattels of Simon 
 Fraunceys and the wool of Andrew Aubrey, citizens of 
 London, to be given up to them, which had been unlawfully 
 seized to satisfy a loan of one hundred golden crowns made 
 by Nicholas Dobbesene and Thomas Rosteleyh, burgesses of 
 Bristol, to Thomas Fraunceys, John Mokkyng, and -Robert 
 Hulle, who possessed neither goods nor chattels, lands nor 
 tenements, within the liberties of the City of London where- 
 with they could be made to satisfy the same, and that 
 concerning this request nothing had as yet been done. It 
 was understood that the wool of the said Andrew had been 
 seized at the suit of the said Nicholas Dobbesene and 
 Thomas Rosteleyh by fraud and collusion in Wales, beypnd 
 their jurisdiction, to the great prejudice of the liberties of the 
 City of London and great disgrace and loss to the said 
 Andrew, who knew nothing of the loan. Moreover it had 
 been discovered that wines belonging to the said John Mok- 
 kyng to the value of the said one hundred crowns and more 
 had been seized at Bordeaux at the suit of the same persons, 
 purposing to recover the sum twice over, contrary to conscience, 
 law, and reason. Desire them, therefore, especially to cause 
 their said fellow burgesses to appear before them, and make 
 restitution to the said Andrew or his attorney, the bearer of 
 these letters, of his wool, together with the goods and chattels 
 
 * Letter No. 5, supra. 
 
8 
 
 of the said Simon, and to proclaim to all their fellow burgesses 
 that they lend not their goods and chattels except at their 
 own risk, so as to avoid any dispute owing to loans of this 
 kind. Unless they take this request to heart, necessity 
 would certainly arise for annoying their folk coming to 
 London. Wish to be informed by letters sent by bearer 
 what they shall have done. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 15th January, s.a. French. 
 
 Temp. RICHARD DE KYSLYNGBURY, MAYOR 
 [a.D. 1350 — i], continued. 
 
 14. The same to the same. 
 
 On the same subject Again desire the delivery of the 
 
 wool to Andrew Aubrey which had been unlawfully seized 
 
 in Wales, together with costs and damages, inasmuch as he 
 
 was never indebted to Nicholas Dobbesene and Thomas 
 
 Rosteleyh, burgesses of their town, to the extent of a single 
 
 penny; and supposing that he had been so indebted, they could 
 
 have found sufficient to seize in Bristol, as they well knew. 
 
 Let them take this request to heart, otherwise there would 
 
 be occasion to annoy their folk coming to London. The 
 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 20th January, s.a. French. 
 
 15. The same to Master Nicholas Hethe.* 
 
 Understood from one John Worthin,-]- a friar of the order 
 
 * Another letter to him from the Corporation is to be found in their Records, 
 asking him to recommend to the Holy Father Master Richard Cleaungre, a 
 kinsman of the above Andrew Aubrey, as they had heard from their dear and well- 
 beloved brother John Worthin that he could avail him more than any other 
 person of the nation. Letter Book F, fol. 178. He was afterwards thrown into 
 prison for pretending that he was the Pope's secretary, and able to obtain such 
 bulls of indulgence as are here mentioned, whence he was discharged on the 20th 
 November, 1352, by order of the King. Vide Rymer's ' Foedera,' vol. iii. part i. 
 
 p. 255. 
 
 t A petition was addressed by the City of London in the previous year to the 
 Pope, that his chaplain John de Worthyn, or, if he should die, that the prior of the 
 
of Preaching Friars, that he was on more intimate terms with 
 the Holy Father* at Avignon than any other person of the 
 English nation, and was able to procure bulls of absolution for 
 the whole City of London, in conformity with letters which 
 had been sent to the Holy Father, a copy of which is enclosed ; 
 and on this account he had received forty livres from Antoin 
 Mayllebayl on behalf of Andrew Aubrey, citizen of London : 
 moreover he had himself, when in London, informed the 
 writers that the said bulls of absolution had been purchased, 
 and would shortly be forwarded, whereof nothing had as yet 
 been heard, and it was understood that nothing had as yet 
 been done. He is desired, therefore, to make no suit for the 
 said bulls, unless he can obtain them according to the 
 purport of the letters sent to the Holy Father, without any 
 diminution or alteration. If he fail to procure such bulls 
 he is to return the forty livres to the said Antoin, that there 
 may be no necessity to inform the Holy Father of the deceit 
 practised by him, nor to take measures against him according 
 to the law of the land. He is to know that unless he acts 
 loyally in the matter he will be prosecuted so as to be dis- 
 graced in the eyes of the Holy Father and everybody else, 
 and is requested to send an answer by bearer as to what he 
 purposes doing therein, otherwise every possible legal method 
 will be used to annoy him. 
 
 London, 6th February, 25 Edward HI. [A.D. I3S|]. 
 
 French. 
 
 16. [The same] to the Bailiffs of Jernemue (Yarmouth). 
 
 Understood from John Underwode, citizen of London and 
 mercer, that he was not permitted to carry 200 quarters of 
 
 convent of his order (z. e., Dominicans or Black Friars), might be empowered to 
 grant absolution within the City, as a dreadful mortality (the plague of 1349) had so 
 cut off their merchants that the citizens of London were no longer able in person 
 to visit the Holy See, even in important cases reserved for His Holiness's court, 
 except at a ruinous expense, whilst the present wars were going on. — Letter Book 
 F, fol. 177. 
 
 * Pope Clement VL 
 
lO 
 
 corn which he had purchased in their part of the country, nor 
 to discharge the same an3rwhere else except at the City of 
 London, and that he had given security to that end. Certify 
 that the said 200 quarters of corn arrived at the City of 
 London on board the ship called " Godosknyght," of " Serice," 
 in " Seland," Pieres But master, and were there discharged. 
 God have them in his keeping, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 17. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 Bruges. 
 
 John de Gonewardeby, citizen of London, had complained 
 that whereas eight tuns of woad, belonging to Wynaud de 
 Reule, of Bruges, had lately been forfeited into the King's 
 hands at " Sandewyz," he, together with John de Depham, 
 citizen of London, had, at the request of the said Wynaud, 
 made suit to the King for the surrender of the same, and after 
 much trouble and expense had recovered it and brought it 
 to London. The said John de Depham dying shortly after- 
 wards. Sir William de Buckely, his executor, had received, 
 by virtue of the King's letters patent, the moifety of the said 
 woad, the receipt for which had been publicly acknowledged. 
 The other moiety the said John de Gonewardeby declared on 
 oath he had sold for the sum of 26/. 6s. 8d., which he was 
 ready to pay to the said Wynaud, less his portion of the 
 costs incurred by him and the said John de Depham. He 
 complained also that his goods had been seized in their 
 country at the suit of the said Wynaud for the whole value 
 of the woad, contrary to law and reason. Desire them to 
 assist him, that he may not be forced to pay more than is 
 reasonable. Let them take this request to heart for love's 
 sake, as they would wish their folk to be treated in like case 
 or weightier. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
II 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor, 
 Constable, and Society of the Staple* 
 
 18. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Gaunt 
 
 (Ghent). 
 
 Informing them that whereas Walter de Kelsterne, 
 burgess of " Euerwyk " (York), was bound to John Hokeman, 
 draper of " Gaunt," in the sum of 56/. sterling for twenty-four 
 pieces of cloth, which he had purchased of the said John, he 
 had fully paid the said sum in wools and woolfells to William 
 Van Zabeke, servant and attorney of the said John Hokeman 
 in England ; in proof of which he produced merchants and 
 other trustworthy men who bore testimony to the fact of 
 payment having been made in manner aforesaid. They are 
 therefore desired to accept this testimony, and cause the said 
 William Van Zabeke to satisfy the said John Hokeman of 
 the said 56/., together with his damages and costs incurred by 
 reason aforesaid, in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 to be treated in like case or weightier when in London. The 
 Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 23rd February, s.a. French. 
 
 19. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 
 and Bailiffs of Bristut (Bristol). 
 
 Certifying that among the Remembrances at the Guild- 
 hall which are of record, it had been found that John, son of 
 Richard Haldone, of" Hakeney," became an apprentice of John 
 de Pateneye, citizen of London, for a term of ten years from 
 Christmas, a° 19 Edward HI., by indentures between them 
 made according to the custom of the City of London. The 
 said John de Pateneye, having lately died, had devised by will 
 
 * Staples or markets where only certain goods, called staple goods, were 
 allowed to be sold, were established by the Statute of Staples, 27 Edward III. 
 Stat. 3. They were sometimes appointed within and sometimes without the 
 kingdom. They were regulated by a Court presided over by a Mayor, and all 
 matters in dispute were then decided in a summary way by the Law Merchant. 
 
12 
 
 the remaining term of the said apprenticeship to Agnes, his 
 wife, afterwards wife of Gilbert de Stayndrope, citizen of 
 London. The said apprentice had lately suddenly withdrawn 
 himself from the service of the said Gilbert and Agnes, 
 contrary to the custom of the said City, and was understood 
 to be residing in their town of Bristol. They are therefore 
 especially desired to assist and favour the said Gilbert and 
 Agnes, or their attorney, the bearer of these letters, that he 
 might be brought back to serve them according to the customs 
 of the City aforesaid, in such manner as they would wish 
 their folk to be treated when in London in like case or 
 weightier. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 20. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 honoured and wise lady the Abbess* of Mallyngge (Mailing, 
 CO. Kent). 
 
 Nicholas Fychet, the bearer, had complained that when 
 lately he visited the town of " Mallyngge " with his mer- 
 chandise, the same had been seized by her bailiffs on suspicion 
 of wrong and that he had wrongfully come by them. Certify 
 that the said Nicholas is a good man and loyal, and had 
 lawfully come by the same, and desire her to cause her 
 bailiffs to restore them. The Lord have her in his keeping. 
 
 London, ist March, s.a. French. 
 
 21. The same to the Bailiffs and Constables of Brauncestre 
 
 (Brancaster, co. Norfolk). 
 
 Thomas Gatyn and Richard de Eure, citizens of London, 
 had complained that 8o quarters of corn, purchased in their 
 
 * The name of this abbess is not known. During the great pestilence in A.D. 
 1348 and 1349, the Bishop of Rochester, according to Dugdale, had made two 
 abbesses here, who shortly afterwards died, and whose names do not appear to 
 have been preserved. After the death of the second of these, there being only 
 eight nuns in the monastery, the bishop committed the custody of the spirituals 
 and temporals to two of them, as there was not a proper person for the offic6 of 
 abbess. 
 
13 
 
 part of the country by Thomas Birle, had been seized on 
 suspicion that the said Thomas desired to carry the same 
 thence to the King's enemies. Certify that the said Thomas 
 Gatyn and Richard de Eure had given security that the 
 said corn should be brought to the City of London, for 
 the use of the said City, and to no other part, and desire 
 them therefore to deliver up the same to the said Thomas 
 Birle. 
 
 London, loth March, s.a, French. 
 
 22. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Bailiffs 
 
 of Wrangle (co. Lincoln). 
 
 Certifying that a certain vessel called " La Gerlaund " 
 of Wrangle, Aleyn de Rede master, laden with lo quarters 
 of corn, 40 quarters of " sprigges,"* and 60 quarters of hay, 
 which had lately been purchased in their country by Emond 
 Oliver, citizen of London, to be carried to the said City and 
 nowhere else, had duly arrived in the City of London and 
 had there been discharged. 
 
 No date. French, 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the same on behalf of 
 Richard Smelt. 
 
 23. The same to the Bailiffs and Constables of Colyngbourne (co. 
 
 Wilts). 
 
 Had heard from Richard Gurveus, "jueler,"f citizen of 
 London, that when lately visiting their part of the country 
 with 9 " hanaps de mazer,"J i " hanap de plane,"§ 6 rings of 
 gold, and divers other jewels, to the value of 12/. sterling, 
 
 * Probably brushwood, although the word, which appears in Letter Book G, 
 fol. 83, is interpreted by Riley in ' Memorials of London ' as a kind of nail. 
 
 t Jeweller. 
 
 X Handled cups of maslin or mixed metal according to some, vide glossary to 
 ' Liber Albus ' (H. T. Riley); according to others, " mazer " is some kind of wood, 
 probably maple. 
 
 § Wood of the plane tree. 
 
14 
 
 the bailiffs of Colyngbourne had seized the same, on sus- 
 picion that he had wrongfully come by them. Certify that 
 the said Richard, citizen of London, was a good man and 
 loyal merchant, and had lawfully come by the said goods, 
 and pray that they be restored to him without loss, that there 
 might be no occasion to write to them again on the same 
 subject. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 24. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Bailiffs 
 
 of the Town of Colcestre (Colchester). 
 
 Reminding them that they had a-lready twice* been 
 requested to cause John Fynch, executor of John Oliver, late 
 burgess of their town, to satisfy a debt of the said John of 
 20/. sterling, due to Simon Chaumberleyn, vintner, at the 
 time of his decease, and expressing surprise that nothing 
 had as yet been done in the matter. Again request that they 
 would cause the same to be paid, otherwise their folk would 
 certainly be annoyed when repairing to London, owing to 
 their default. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 25. [The same] to the Bailiffs oi Benny ngeham (Birmingham). 
 
 Had heard from John Dawe, " Drover," citizen of London, 
 
 that they had distrained upon his goods and chattels for 
 
 custom which they demanded of all merchandise coming into 
 
 ' their part of the country. Pray them to restore the distress so 
 
 taken to the said John or his attorney, the bearer of these 
 
 letters, inasmuch as both he and all who are of the franchise 
 
 of the said City are, and ought to be,f quit of all manner of 
 
 custom throughout the King's dominion. The Lord have 
 
 them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 14th May, s.a. French. 
 
 * Letters Nos. 3 and 6, sttpra. 
 
 t By charter of Henry I., confirmed by subsequent charters. 
 
15 
 
 Temp. RICHARD DE KYSLYNGBURY, MAYOR 
 [a.D. 1350 — i], continued. 
 
 26. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Bruges. 
 
 On the same subject as Letter No. 17, supra. Wynaud 
 de Reule, burgess of Bruges, had asserted that he had paid 
 to Raulyn de Depham, the attorney of John de Depham, 
 deceased, the sum of 50/., costs incurred in respect of 
 the woad ; but the said John de Depham and Raulyn, his 
 attorney, had, when alive, made oath, in the presence of trust- 
 worthy men, that they had never received one penny of the 
 said costs. John Lovekyn, the attorney of John de Gone- 
 wardeby, has been given to understand that if the papers of 
 the said Raulyn and of Thomas Houdelowe, apprentice of 
 John de Depham, were searched, one would discover the 
 receipt for the 50/. aforesaid. Search had accordingly been 
 made, but no receipt found : moreover John de Gonewardeby 
 and Thomas Houdelowe, and many other good men, had upon 
 oath declared that they were not aware of the said Raulyn 
 having ever received a single penny of the said 50/. Pray 
 them, therefore, to deliver up the merchandise of the said 
 John de Gonewardeby which had been seized in their country, 
 in such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated in 
 like case or weightier. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 21st May, s.a. French. 
 
 27. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Baihffs 
 
 and Burgomasters of Lesclus (Sluys). 
 
 Peter Grubbe, citizen and fishmonger of London, had 
 complained that lately having chartered a ship, John Brabard 
 owner and master, to go from London to Winchelsea for 
 a cargo of 12,000 "busche,"* belonging to the said Peter, 
 to bring the same to London, for a stipulated sum, the 
 
 * Firewood. 
 
1 6 
 
 said John took the ship to WInchelsea, and having laden it 
 with the said 12,000 "busche," price sixteen marks, had 
 carried the same to Dunkirk, contrary to law and reason, 
 and there sold the whole of the said " busche," and received 
 and retained the money. He is understood to be residing 
 in their country. They are, therefore, especially desired to 
 cause him to appear and to act honourably towards the said 
 Peter. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 23rd May, s.a. French. 
 
 28. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Colcestre (Col- 
 chester). 
 
 Reminding them of former letters,* to which they had 
 replied that they had summoned John Fynch to answer 
 respecting the alleged debt, who had declared that he had 
 no goods of the deceased in his possession wherewith to 
 satisfy the same. Had heard that this was not the case, 
 inasmuch as the said John Fynch had in his possession 
 lands, tenements, goods, and chattels of the deceased, where- 
 with he could pay the said Simon Chaumberleyn, if he would. 
 Desire them, therefore, immediately to cause the debt to be 
 paid, otherwise it would certainly behove them (the writers) 
 to annoy their folk repairing to London, owing to their 
 default. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 24th May, s.a. French. 
 
 29. Letters patent of Richard de Kyslyngbury, Mayor, the Aldermen, 
 and Commonalty of the City of London. 
 
 Notifying that they had considered a requisition made 
 by the King for an aid of 20,000 marks for the protection 
 of the realm, upon the customs and subsidy of wools, leathers, 
 and woolfells issuing from the port of London, and had 
 deputed the said Mayor, Simon Fraunceys, Henry Pycard, 
 Roger de Depham, and William Welde, Aldermen, together 
 
 * Letters Nos. 3, 6, and 24, supra. 
 
17 
 
 with eleven Commoners, to wait upon the King and his 
 Council to signify their assent to the same ;* and in order 
 that the said Mayor, Aldermen, and Commoners might not 
 at any time be impeached for granting the said sum in their 
 name, these letters patent, sealed with the common seal of 
 the said City, had been made. 
 
 London, Thursday next after the Feast of St. Mark 
 the Evangelist (25th April), 25 Edward III. (a.d. 
 135 1). French. 
 
 30. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor and Bailiffs of Gloucestre (Gloucester). 
 
 Thomas de Brandon, citizen of London and mercer, had 
 complained that nineteen " sarplers " of wool, whilst being 
 carried on carts hired by his agents from their part of the 
 country to London, had been seized by their bailiffs for a debt 
 due by the masterf of the manor of " Denmore," one of the 
 Brethren of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England, 
 supposing that the wool belonged to the master of the said 
 manor. Testify that the wool belongs to the said Thomas, 
 who bought it of the said master a long time since ; and 
 especially pray them to deliver up the same to the said 
 Thomas or his attorney, the bearer of these letters, that there 
 might not be any cause for annoying their folk repairing to 
 London, owing to their default of what is right. The Lord 
 have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 28th May, s.a. French. 
 
 31. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Henle 
 
 (Henley). 
 
 Informing them that the will of WiUiam Double, late citizen 
 and fishmonger of London, had been proved and enrolled in 
 
 * The King's writ, dated from Eltham, 25th May of this year, appointing 
 assessors to collect this sum which he had borrowed from the City for the defence 
 of his realm, is set out in the City Records, Letter Book F, fol. 204. 
 
 t Le Meistre. 
 
 C 
 
i8 
 
 the Hustings* of the City of London, and that the tenements 
 of the said William situate in the said town of " Henle " 
 had not been devised to any ; and praying them, therefore, 
 to aid and favour John de Cranesle and Joan his wife, sister 
 and heir of the said William, as appears by letters patent 
 sealed with the seal of the Mayoralty of Northampton. 
 
 London, 8th June, s.a. French. 
 
 32. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Lutoun (Luton, co. Beds). 
 
 Understood that William le Smyth and Ralph le Bakere, 
 servants of John de Welde and John de Sandwyz, citizens and 
 fishmongers of London, had gone with their masters' per- 
 mission to communicate with friends in the country, to 
 return immediately to serve their masters according to 
 agreement. On arriving at " Lutoun " the bailiffs of the town 
 had arrested them on suspicion that they were men of evil 
 disposition. Testify to the said William and Ralph being 
 good men and loyal, and sworn to serve their masters faith- 
 fully till Michaelmas next, and pray their surrender for love's 
 sake. 
 
 London, ist July, s.a. French. 
 
 33, The same to the Prior and Convent of Donestable (Dunstable, 
 
 CO. Beds). 
 
 Alice Edward, citizen of London, had complained that 
 John Aleyn, sworn to serve her till Christmas next, had 
 suddenly, and without her permission, left her service in the 
 week of Pentecost, contrary to the statute. Had heard of his 
 arrest by their bailiffs in the town of " Donestable," and 
 therefore pray his surrender, in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like* case or weightier. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 * Hust. Roll 77 (217). 
 
19 
 
 34. [The same] to the Bailiffs of Thame (co. Oxon). 
 
 Certifying that John de Stoke, servant of John de Coventre, 
 citizen of London and servant of the lord the King, had 
 lawfully come by eight oxen and two cows, which had been 
 seized in their bailiwick on suspicion, and desiring them to 
 restore the same to the said John de Coventre, the bearer of 
 these letters, without further grievance. The Lord, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 35. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Lenne (Lynn, co. 
 
 Norfolk). 
 
 The goods and chattels of Alice Edward, citizen of 
 London, had lately been delivered by John Aleyn, her servant, 
 to certain of their bailiffs for safe keeping, to be re-delivered 
 at the will of the said John. They are desired, therefore, 
 to assist the said John, Roberd de Pursele, and Richard de 
 Sogham, citizens of London and bearers of these letters, to 
 recover the same, in such manner as they would wish their 
 folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have 
 them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 27th July, s.a. French. 
 
 36. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Bruges. 
 
 Certifying that Peter Medenhoe, a Fleming of Bruges, 
 had died in the house of Maude Aleyns, citizen of London, 
 in the parish of St. Botolph at Billingsgate, on Friday next 
 after the Feast of the Holy Trinity last past. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 Saturday next before the Assumption of Our Lady 
 (iSth August), s.a. French. 
 
 37. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Burgomasters and Echevins, Council, and 
 
 Good Folk of the Town of Bruges. 
 
 Had received letters under the seal of the Mayor and 
 
 Commonalty of the Town of Bristol, certifying that Richard 
 
 C 2 
 
20 
 
 Curteys, of Bristol, who had been horribly put to death on 
 the prosecution of Hildebrand Southernnan* and his com- 
 panions, merchants of Almaine, was a good man and loyal, 
 and that on the Feast of the Ascension last past he was at 
 Bristol, on which day he was charged, as they are well aware, 
 by the said Hildebrand and his companions, with having 
 committed a robbery at " Lescluse " (Sluys) ; this was known 
 to be a fact on the testimony of many good trustworthy men. 
 Had heard that the said Hildebrand and his companions had 
 given them to understand that Thomas Dolsely, Mayor of the 
 Staple, had made use of some disagreeable expressions 
 against them and their judgments. Let them be assured 
 that such is not the case ; he had said nothing of them 
 but what was good, and had excused them as not having 
 assented to the death of the said Richard, nor participated 
 in his prosecution ; and inasmuch as the said Thomas had 
 been menaced if he should come into their parts, they are 
 entreated to take him and his goods into their safe keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 38. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of Covyntre (Coventry). 
 
 Certifying that Tydeman Knyf is a freeman of the City 
 of London, and entitled to enjoy the franchise thereof 
 throughout the King's dominion ; and praying that his 
 goods and chattels, which had been seized by their bailiffs 
 on the understanding that he was not free of the said City, 
 may be delivered up to him or his attorney, the bearer of 
 these letters. No date. French. 
 
 * Owing to his implication in the death of this man he was especially excepted 
 by name from the King's protection granted to all Merchants of the Hanse of 
 Almaine, 25th February, 25 Edward III. (City Records, Letter Book F, fol. 204 bj 
 printed in Rymer's 'Foedera,' vol. iii. part i. p. 232). A protection, however, was 
 granted to him and others on the 2Sth November following, but subsequently 
 withdrawn in his case until the King should have been better informed of his 
 conduct in the matter, as appears by a royal proclamation to the Merchants 
 of the Hanse of Almaine, dated 20th August, 26 Edward III. (a.d. 1352). Letter 
 Book F, folios 207, 215 (5. 
 
21 
 
 39. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Seint 
 Auban (St. Albans). 
 
 John atte Wharf, citizen of London, had complained 
 of being robbed of linen and woollen cloths, pots, pails, 
 wools, basins, and other things of great value which he lately 
 had in his possession when in the said City of London : 
 he had sought them from town to town and place to 
 place until he had discovered them in their town of " Seint 
 Auban," where he had caused them to be seized. They are 
 desired to give them up, that there might be no occasion 
 to write again on the same subject, and to prevent reprisal 
 being taken. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Temp. RICHARD DE KYSLYNGBURY, MAYOR 
 [a.d. 1350 — i], continued. 
 
 40. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Mayor, Jurats, and Good Folk of the City 
 oi Burdeaux (Bordeaux). 
 
 Had heard from William Heyroun, citizen of London, 
 that Robert Honylee, his servant, had lately purchased on his 
 behalf from Guylliam de la Tour, merchant of " Seint 
 Makary,"* 15 tuns and one pipe of wine at 22 crowns "la 
 piece" and from Standone Labbot, citizen of Bordeaux, 
 6 tuns of wine of " Maddok "f at the same price ; and foras- 
 much as disputes had arisen between the said William and 
 Robert respecting the price of the wines aforesaid, they are 
 especially desired to cause the said Guylliam and Standone, 
 vendors of the same, to appear before them, and to inquire 
 of them upon oath touching the truth of the said sale, and 
 thereupon to send information by bearer. 
 
 London, isth September, s.a. French 
 
 * Bayonne. t Medoc. 
 
22 
 
 41. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor and Baihffs of Bristut (Bristol). 
 
 It had been shown by John de Westone, draper and 
 citizen of London, executor of Michael Mynot, that Roger 
 Turtel, burgess of Bristol, deceased, at the time of his death 
 owed to the said Michael 52/. sterling and 13 tuns of wine or 
 its equivalent, as appears from two bonds sealed with the seal 
 of the said Roger, not one penny of which had been paid by 
 him when alive. They are, therefore, especially desired to 
 cause the executors of the said Roger to appear before them 
 and to satisfy the said John or his attorney, the bearer of 
 these letters, of the debts aforesaid, that there might be no 
 occasion to write again on the same subject. 
 
 London, 1 8th September, s.a. French. 
 
 42. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Seynt 
 
 Emon (Bury St. Edmunds, co. Suffolk). 
 
 Richard de Hertle, farrier and citizen of London, had 
 complained that one John de Cantebrigge, farrier, who had 
 entered into an agreement with him to faithfully serve him 
 for a term of six years, had suddenly, more than a year since, 
 left his service without permission, and had not returned to 
 serve him, contrary' to his oath and the statute thereupon 
 ordained. He was, moreover, reported to be residing within 
 their town of " Seint Emon." They are, therefore, especially 
 desired to assist the said Richard in the recovery of his ser- 
 vant, that he may be brought back to serve him according to 
 his oath and the agreement aforesaid. Should they desire 
 anything on their part, they (the writers) would be ready to 
 do what they could. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 / William de Thame. 
 Sworn before the Mayor that the said J William de Lodelowe. 
 plaint is true. ) Henry de Suthewelle. 
 
 ^ Richard Horne. 
 
 Latin. 
 
23 
 
 43. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Commonalty of Sandwyz 
 (Sandwich, co. Kent). 
 
 Had already twice desired them by letter to inquire into 
 a grievous offence lately committed against John Tornegold, 
 the younger, at "Plomouth" (Plymouth), by Thomas Gyboun, 
 Thomas de Chilham, " maryner," Robert Gofaire, and other 
 malefactors, contrary to the peace of the lord the King, and 
 to see justice done. To which they had replied that they 
 had examined the said persons in full assembly, who declared 
 themselves not guilty of the charges made against them ; but 
 that if the said John Tornegold would come to " Sandwyz " 
 and make his suit, they would see justice done. Whereupon 
 the said John had gone to " Sandwyz," but had_retumed (it 
 was understood) without remedy or recovery, to his great loss 
 and damage. They are again, therefore, especially desired 
 to take this matter to heart that friendship might'continue 
 between them, and that their citizens repairing to London 
 might not be aggrieved through default of justice on their 
 part. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 44. The same to their most excellent Prince and Lord, the 
 Lord Edward [III.], King of England and France and Lord 
 of Ireland. 
 
 Enclosing copy of letter* which they had sent, at the 
 request of Henry Pycard, citizen of London, to the Captain 
 and Commonalty of the City of Florence, and which had 
 been ignored by them, to the great prejudice of the said 
 Henry ; and humbly praying him to provide such remedy 
 as should seem good on submission of the said letter to his 
 Council. The Most Highest preserve him, and give him 
 victory over his enemies. 
 
 No date. Latin. 
 * Letter No. 45, infra. 
 
24 
 
 45. Copy of letter enclosed in No. 44, supra, in which the writers 
 say that they had frequently been desired by Henry Pycard 
 to take reprisal from the citizens of Florence residing in 
 England in order that justice might be rendered to him. 
 Wish, however, not to act hastily, or without giving them 
 due notice, and therefore once more desire them to cause 
 satisfaction to be made. 
 
 No date. Latin. 
 
 LETTERS SENT temp. ANDREW AUBREY, MAYOR, 
 25 [Edward III. A.D. 1351 — 2]. 
 
 46. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor of the City of London, to the Mayor, 
 
 Bailiffs, and Commonalty of Sandewyz (Sandwich). 
 
 John Tornegold the younger, citizen of London, had 
 desired him and his brethren, the Aldermen and Commonalty 
 of the said City, to take " wythernam "* of men of the town 
 of " Sandewyz " coming to London with their goods, which 
 thing they could not refuse according to the liberties and 
 customs of the said City. Three lettersf had been sent before 
 he became mayor, desiring them to redress the injury to the 
 said John inflicted at "Plomouth" (Plymouth) by Thomas 
 Gyboun and others, but nothing had been done. They are 
 again advised to make satisfaction, as no further delay of 
 justice could be allowed. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 47. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City 
 
 of London to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Bayone 
 (Bayonne). 
 
 Illegible. French. 
 
 * Wythernam, so called from two Anglo-Saxon words signifying a seizure on 
 the other hand, i. e., by way of reprisal. It is a seizure of other cattle or goods by 
 the sheriff in lieu of those which had formerly been unjustly removed. 
 
 t Only one letter appears enrolled, viz., No. 43, supra. 
 
25 
 
 48. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Mimestoke (co. 
 
 Southampton). 
 
 Desiring them to give up a horse and other goods and 
 chattels belonging to Richard de Bukyngham, " peleter "* and 
 citizen of London, which they had seized on suspicion that 
 he was an evil-disposed person, and testifying to his good 
 character. No date. French. 
 
 49. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Excestre (Exeter). 
 
 John Crosse, citizen of London, had complained that 
 Martyn de Halscombe, son of William de Halscombe, his 
 apprentice, had suddenly left his service, and was understood 
 to be residing in their town. They are, therefore, especially 
 desired to assist the said John to recover the said apprentice, 
 that he might bring him back to London to serve him accord- 
 ing to the customs of the said City. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 50. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Bayone 
 
 (Bayonne). 
 
 Certifying that Pieres Nandoun de Mendye, merchant 
 of " Bayone," had on the Feast of Pentecost, in the year of 
 grace 1351, sold in the City of London to John de Gone- 
 wardby, " espicer,"t 165 pounds nett of "greyn"t for cloth, 
 which was in a "Pipe," and 32^ pounds nett of "greyn 
 de Parys,"§ which was in a little " Barill." 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 51. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, the Aldermen and Commonalty of the 
 
 City of London, to Thomas de Holond. 
 
 Desiring him to give up to Simon Fraunceys, citizen of 
 
 * A skinner or pelterer, one who dresses skins with the fleece on. 
 
 t A dealer in spices, otherwise pepperer. 
 
 X A red dye, so called because it was taken to be not an insect, but a seed. 
 
 § Qy- grains of Paradise, a spice brought from the East Indies. The ordinary 
 cardamoms seem to have been likewise so named. Vide Way's ' Prompt. Parv.' 
 (Camden Soc. ) and Cotgrave's French Dictionary. 
 
26 
 
 London, John, son of Walter Shorne, of Great Stanmere 
 (co. Middlesex), who had been bound apprentice to the said 
 Simon, according to the customs of the City of London, as 
 appears from the " Remembrances " which are of record, and 
 whom he had removed out of the said City, to the great pre- 
 judice of his master. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 52. Letters patent of the Mayor, Aldermen, Sheriffs, and Citizens 
 
 of London, under their common seal. 
 
 Certifying that various important documents relating to 
 the election and consecration of the Lord Cesario, Bishop 
 of Sancta Maria de Rosis,* among them being a Bull of 
 confirmation of Pope Clement VL, had been destroyed by 
 fire through the negligence of his servant, who had let fall a 
 lighted candle while his master was absent on a pilgrimage 
 to Rome in the year of Jubileef last past. 
 
 London, 20th January, A.D. 1352. Latin. 
 
 53. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor and Bailiffs of Wyncestre (Winchester). 
 
 On behalf of Thomas de Stafford, " taillour " and citizen 
 of London, who had business to transact in their part of the 
 country. No date. French. 
 
 * Bishop in partibus infidelium. Recommended shortly afterwards by the 
 Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London to Pope Innocent VI. 
 for ecclesiastical preferment, as being a man of exemplary character. Vide 
 infra Letter No. 132. 
 
 t The year 1350, being the fiftieth year of the fourteenth century, was held as 
 a solemn Jubilee at Rome. The festival was first instituted among the Jews. 
 Every seventh year was termed a Sabbatical year, during which the fields were to 
 lie unfilled, and seven of these Sabbatical years being completed, a festival or 
 great Sabbatical year was ordered to be kept, which fiftieth year was called the 
 year of Jubilee. Pope Boniface VIII. introduced it among Christians in A.D. 
 1 300, and ordained that it should be solemnly kept every hundredth year. But 
 Clement VI. in 1350 reverted to the practice of the Mosaic law, and decreed that 
 this year, and every fiftieth year following, the Jubilee should be celebrated at 
 Rome. Odor. Raynald. ' Annales Ecclesiast./ p. 487 ; Ciacon. ' Hist Pontif. 
 Roman.,' vol. ii. p. 483. 
 
27 
 
 54. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Burgomasters, Echevins, and Good Folk of 
 Bruges and Lesclus (Sluys). 
 
 Concerning a complaint against Robert de Hull, master 
 of the ship called " La Julianne," of London, of his having 
 run down and sunk a " hakebote "* with men of Flanders on 
 board at the Foreland in " Tenett " (Thanet). Certify that 
 the matter having been investigated by the best men of the 
 City and merchant seamen, the said Robert had been found 
 guiltless of the charge brought against him, and desire that 
 he may be allowed to depart with his ship unmolested. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses summoned to examine 
 the matter. 
 
 55. The same to the same. Illegible. French. 
 
 TemJ). ANDREW AUBREY, MAYOR [a.d. 1351—2], continued. 
 
 56. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to Bartholomew 
 Burghaysshe,t Constable of Dovor Castle. 
 
 Certifying the fact that John de Knyghtcote, mercer and 
 citizen of London, had lately sent his servant Thomas de 
 Leycestre to Flanders with 56 florins of gold, called " Nobles," 
 in addition to his travelling expenses, wherewith to trade, 
 who on his arrival at "Dovor" had been arrested by Robert de 
 Caustone, bailiff, and his money taken from him, on suspicion 
 that he had wrongfully come by it. Pray him, therefore, to 
 cause the said bailiff to restore the money to the said John 
 or his attorney, the bearer of these letters. Should he desire 
 
 * A boat with a hatch or deck covering. 
 
 t He was also the King's Chamberlain and Warden of the Cinque Ports. 
 Frequently sent as ambassador to France, and took a prominent part in bringing 
 about the Peace of Bretigni in 1360, in contravention of which he was for a short 
 time detained prisoner in France. Rymer's ' Fcedera,' vol. iii. part i. p. 504. 
 
28 
 
 anything on his part, they would be ready to do what they 
 could. The Lord have him in his keeping and increase his 
 honours. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 57. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 London to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Bruges. 
 
 Roger Pottere, citizen of London, was understood to have 
 died in their town, to whom Thomas Cheyner, mercer and 
 citizen of London, had been proved, on the evidence of trust- 
 worthy persons, to be cousin and next heir. They are, therefore, 
 especially desired to assist the said Thomas or his attorney, 
 the bearer of these letters, in matters touching the decease of 
 the said Roger, as they would wish their folk to be treated in 
 like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 27th February, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Burgomasters 
 and Echevins of Lesclus (Sluys) on behalf of the same 
 Thomas Cheyner. Latin. 
 
 58. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, the Aldermen, and Commonalty of the 
 City of London to Sir Henry de Walton,* Archdeacon of 
 Richmond (co. York).f 
 
 Touching John, son of Walter Shorne, of Great Stanmere 
 (co. Middlesex), bound apprentice to Simon Fraunceys for a 
 term of seven years, according to the custom of the City of 
 London, who had suddenly left his master's service.^ He was 
 now understood to be living in the company of " Madame la 
 
 * Held the post of clerk, i. e. chaplain, to Henry, first Duke of Lancaster. 
 Rymer's ' Fcedera/ vol. iii. part i. p. 253. 
 
 t A marginal note states that this letter was sealed with the seal of the 
 Mayoralty. 
 
 t Vide Letter No. 51, supra. 
 
29 
 
 Duchesse de Holand et Seland "* at " Saluoye,"t with which 
 domicile the Archdeacon was well acquainted. He is, 
 therefore, especially desired to assist the said Simon to 
 recover his said apprentice, and to take this request to 
 heart, inasmuch as the matter affected the liberties of 
 the City of London. Should he desire anything on his part, 
 they would be ready to do what they could. The Lord have 
 him in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 59. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Good Folk of Barton-upon-Humber. 
 
 Certifying that John de Grymmesby, master of the ship 
 called "La Blithe," of Barton, arrived at London on the 
 Thursday next after the Feast of the Holy Apostle last 
 past, with the said ship laden with 134 quarters of barley 
 hulled, which he sold exclusively to the good folk of the 
 said City. To this testimony they are asked to give faith 
 and credence. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 60. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Echevins and Commonalty of Burcels 
 (Brussels). 
 
 Desiring the surrender of William de Cavendisshe, citizen 
 of London and servant to John de Bures and Richard de 
 Essex, drapers and citizens of London, who had been arrested, 
 together with the goods and chattels of his said masters, at 
 the suit of Reyner van Murchebek and Johan Retyn, residing 
 in " Burcels," on the charge of having, five years before, in 
 company with other " mariners " of England, robbed the said 
 
 * Maud or Matilda, eldest daughter of the above Duke of Lancaster who fell 
 a victim to the plague in 1361. Her second husband was William, fifth Count of 
 Holland and Zealand, called also Duke of Bavaria. Loftie's ' Memorials of the 
 Savoy,' p. 51. 
 
 t The Savoy Palace, the residence of the Duke of Lancaster, and therefor? 
 well known to his chaplain. 
 
30 
 
 Reyner and Johan of a ship coming from Rochelle to England, 
 laden with wines of the value of 500 livres groos ;* and testi- 
 fying that the said William never was a " mariner," but a 
 loyal servant, crossing the seas with his masters' merchandise. 
 Had always been, and still were, willing to assist them in all 
 matters affecting their interest. 
 
 London, i ith March, s.a. French. 
 
 61. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of London 
 
 to the Mayor and Good Folk of the Town of Faveresham 
 (co. Kent). 
 
 Had examined John Mountkoy and Robert de Lyncolne, 
 citizens of London, touching John Parker and other burgesses 
 of "Faveresham," pursuant to their letters which had been 
 received, who had thereupon produced a letter in the same 
 hand as the former and sealed with the seal of their town, 
 wherein was mentioned a debt due to them by the said John 
 Parker, Henry de Wymborne, Robert Danyel, John Child, 
 and Boydyn "mariner," burgesses of "Faveresham," who 
 had promised to pay them the sum of 61. 12s. at the Feast of 
 the Purification (2nd February) last past, whereof they declare 
 upon oath they had not received one penny. Desire them, 
 therefore, to cause the said John Parker and the others 
 before mentioned to satisfy the said debt, that there 
 might be no occasion for annoying their folk repairing to 
 London, owing to their default. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. No date. French. 
 
 62. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, the Aldermen, and Commonalty of 
 
 the City of London to the Honoured Lady the Duchess 
 of Holand and Seland.f 
 
 On the same subject as Nos. 51 and 58 supra. Request 
 her to give up John, son of Walter Shorne, of Great Stanmere, 
 
 * According to Roquefort (' Glossaire de la Langue Romaine ') a livre de gros 
 was of the value of six florins, or seven livres ten sols tournois. 
 t Vide supra No. 58, note. 
 
31 
 
 a runaway apprentice of Simon Fraunceys, citizen of London, 
 as it was a matter affecting the liberties of the said City. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 63, Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of London 
 
 to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Cicestre (Chichester). 
 
 Roger Rotour, citizen of London, had complained that 
 Phelipot Sombourne, burgess of their town, was indebted 
 to him in the sum of 25/. sterling for merchandise lately 
 bought at the fair of Winchester, not one penny of which 
 had been received. Desire them to compel the said Phelipot 
 to satisfy the said debt. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the same. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 64. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Burgo- 
 
 masters and Echevins of Bruges. 
 
 John Palmer, of " Canterbirs " (Canterbury), barber, had 
 received from Simon Gentil, " Laner,"* citizen of London, the 
 sum of 40/. sterling, on Tuesday the Feast of St. Luke 
 the Evangelist (i8th October) last past, wherewith to trade 
 for the benefit of the said Simon from the said Feast until 
 the Feast of Noel (2Sth December) next ensuing, and to 
 render an account of the same, as by a deed sealed with the 
 seal of the said John truly appears. He had, however, rendered 
 no such account, and had betaken himself out of England, 
 and was understood to be residing in their town of Bruges. 
 They are, therefore, desired to compel him to render an account, 
 and to do to the said Simon as law and reason demand, 
 in such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated in 
 like case or weightier. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 21st April, s.a. French. 
 
 * Woolstapler. 
 
32 
 
 65. Letters patent of Andrew Aubrey, Mayor of the City of 
 
 London. 
 
 Testifying that a certain letter of statute merchant,* 
 whereby William de Holbeche and Roger de Flete, drapers, 
 of London, had become bound to William de Burtone, 
 Knight, in the sum of 200/. sterling, dated the 5th May, 
 25 Edward III. (A.D. 1351), had been discharged by them 
 according to the terms of an indenture between the said 
 parties, but was unlawfully retained by the said William. 
 Sealed with the seals of the Mayoralty and of the parties 
 aforesaid. 
 
 London, Monday, the Feast of St. George (23rd April), 
 26 Edward III. (a.d. 1352). French. 
 
 66. Letters patent of Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of 
 
 the City of London. 
 
 Certifying that Walter de Faucombrigge,f Knight, Lord 
 
 of Skelton (co. York), was alive and in good health, and had" 
 
 conversed with them in the said City of London on the 29th 
 
 day of April, A.D. 1352. Sealed with the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 London, the day and year aforesaid. French. 
 
 67. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of Horsham (co. 
 Sussex).f 
 
 John de Farnham had complained that John atte Nore 
 and John Acresmythe, his merchants, having lately purchased 
 
 * A statute merchant was a bond of record, acknowledged before the Clerk of 
 the Statutes Merchant and the Lord Mayor of the City of London, or two merchants 
 assigned for that purpose, sealed with the seal of the debtor and the king, upon 
 condition that if the obligor paid not his debt at the day, execution might be 
 awarded against his body, lands, and goods tiU the debt was levied. 
 
 + Son of John de Fauconbrigge. Died anno 36 Edward III., having been 
 married twice, (i) to Maud, sister to William de Pateshull, (2) to Isabel, sister 
 to John Bigot. 
 
 X A marginal note states that this letter was sealed with the seal of the 
 Mayoralty. 
 
33 
 
 in their part of the country some oxen and other beasts to 
 bring to London for the service of the King, the great folk, 
 and Commons of the land and of the said City, had been 
 arrested, together with the merchandise of the said John 
 de Farnham, by their bailiffs, and made to swear that they 
 would not in future purchase any cattle for the purpose 
 aforesaid, to the great prejudice of the King, the great folk, 
 and commons of the land and City aforesaid. They are 
 desired, therefore, to release both the merchants and their 
 goods, and henceforth to allow merchants and their servants 
 to pass to and fro without disturbance as hitherto, in order 
 that there might be no occasion to lay the matter before 
 the King and his Council owing to their default. The Lord 
 have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 5 th May, s.a. French. 
 
 68. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 London, to Thomas de Wynkfeld, Steward of the Lady 
 Countess of " Garenne,"* in the Town of Dorkyng, or his 
 Deputy. 
 
 John Odierne, John de Farnham, John Lemman, Emond 
 de Lenham, and John Vannere, citizens of London, had com- 
 plained of distress having been taken from their goods and 
 chattels for toll demanded of all merchandise passing through 
 the said town of "Dorkyng," contrary to the liberties of the 
 said City of London. He is, therefore, requested to deliver 
 up to them the distress so taken, inasmuch as citizens of 
 London are and ought to bef quit of all manner of toll 
 throughout the King's dominion. The Lord have them in 
 his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 * Isabel de Houland, second wife of John, Earl of Warren and Surrey, who 
 died A.D. 1347. Dugdale's 'Baronage,' pt. i. p. 81. 
 
 + By charter of Henry I., confirmed by many subsequent charters. 
 
 D 
 
34. 
 
 69. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Roucestre (Rochester). 
 
 Requesting the surrender to Simon de Witton, citizen of 
 London, of his goods and chattels which had been seized, 
 when passing through their country, for the payment of his 
 share of a fifteenth* granted to the King, inasmuch as all 
 the goods of the said Simon within the King's realm had 
 been already assessed in the City of London in respect of 
 the same, and his share paid. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 70. The same to the same. 
 
 Requesting the surrender of Laurence, son of Nicholas 
 de Erlee, bound apprentice to Humfrey Aberford, armourer, 
 who had suddenly left his master's service, and was under- 
 stood to be residing in their town. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Temp. ANDREW AUBREY, MAYOR [a.d. 135 1-2], continued. 
 
 71, The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to 
 the Mayor and Jurats of the Town of Sandewiz (Sand- 
 wich). 
 
 Had examined Ralph de Cauntebregge (Cambridge) 
 and Juliana, his daughter, touching the statement made by 
 Stephen Espelon, burgess of Sandwich, that he had on the 
 Feast of St. Martin last (nth November) lent to Henry, 
 son of the said Ralph, fifteen gold nobles, wherewith to pay 
 for certain wheat which he alleged he had bought near 
 Sandwich on his father's behalf. They had declared upon 
 oath that for the last four years the said Henry had ceased 
 
 * Consisted originally of the fifteenth part of all a subject's movables granted 
 to the Crown by Parliament. The amount was therefore uncertain, being levied 
 by assessments new made at every fresh grant of the Commons ; but it was at 
 length reduced to a certainty in the eighth year of Edward III., so that when in 
 later years a fifteenth was granted to the Crown, each town and parish knew its 
 proportion, and then raised it by a rate among its inhabitants, and returned it 
 into the royal exchequer. 
 
35 
 
 to purchase any merchandise for them, and evidence had 
 been adduced to show that for that period the said Ralph 
 had refused to acknowledge any act of his son, and had, 
 moreover, requested that no one should lend anything to 
 the said Henry on his account. As a matter of courtesy, 
 however, Robert de Erhethe, who had married the said 
 Juliana, was ready to pay to the said Stephen the sum of 
 twenty-five shillings at four different terms. If he preferred 
 to come to London, or would send his attorney, and show 
 how distress might be made on the said Henry, every 
 assistance would be afforded him. But to prevent similar 
 risks in future, they are asked to inform their folk that 
 they lend not their goods to any citizen of London 
 except at their own peril. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. ' 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 72. Letters patent of Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, John Wroth and 
 Gilbert de Steyndrope, Sheriffs of the City of London. 
 
 Certifying that Robert de Heyleston, "prisoner cleyes- 
 bak"* at St. Walrik.f in Picardy, is a citizen of London, 
 and calling upon all persons to aid and assist him in his 
 necessity. 
 
 London, 14th July, A. D. 1352. French. 
 
 A note to the effect that the above letter was sent at the request 
 of John Brokas, Knight, upon the evidence of William Credil, 
 Adam Maydestone, fripperer.J John Dunsterre, fripperer, and 
 Gilbert Juel, "brasour,"§ that the said Robert de Heyleston 
 was a freeman of the City of London. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 * This probably means that he had been taken prisoner by a pirate. Cf. in/ra, 
 Letter No. 207, where certain mariners of Normandy who had plundered a vessel 
 are called "billecokes claybakes," and pthers. 
 
 + St Valery. 
 
 % A dealer in old clothes and furniture. § A brewer. 
 
 D 2 
 
36 
 
 73. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 to the Burgomasters, Echevins, and Counsellors of the Town 
 of Bruges, in Flanders; 
 
 Had heard from Thomas de Ware, citizen of London, 
 as well as from other good folk of the same City, and merchant 
 seamen of divers towns and ports of England, how that he had 
 lately freighted a vessel called " La Cristemasse," of London, 
 John atte Nasshe master, with wine, oil, pewter vessels, 
 spurs, and divers other goods to the value of 231/. os. lod. 
 sterling, as by his bills more fully appears ; that whilst sailing 
 1 n a place called " La Sheeld " with other English vessels, 
 on Tuesday next before the Feast of Corpus Christi last 
 past, there came four ships of Flanders full of armed robbers, 
 who seized all the goods in the ship of the said Thomas 
 and killed some of the men who were on board, whilst others 
 suffered shipwreck. It was reported that some of the robbers 
 had been arrested in their country, with part of the mer- 
 chandise which had belonged to the said Thomas in their 
 possession. They are especially desired to bring them to 
 justice, in order that the said Thomas may recover what he 
 has lost, and that loyal merchants and seamen may pass the 
 sea in safety as they had been accustomed. The Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 25th July, s.a. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of the Mayor of Kingston-upon- 
 HuU and merchants of the same town, testifying to the facts 
 contained in the above letter. Latin. 
 
 74. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 London to the Mayor and Aldermen of the Hansef of the 
 Merchants of Almaine at Bruges, in Flanders. 
 
 Notifying that John Littel, citizen of London, had ap- 
 pointed William de Newenton and John de Brusleye his 
 
 * The Scheldt. 
 
 t The Hanse or Guild of the Merchants of Almaine, otherwise called the Hanse 
 of the Teutonics, was formed about the year 11 69, though the Germans under 
 
attorneys for prosecuting his plaint of trespass against certain 
 merchants of Almaine, according to the tenor of the King's 
 writ to them thereon directed. 
 
 London, the last day of July, A.D. 1352. Latin. 
 
 75. Power of attorney from William de Wandlesworth (Wands- 
 
 worth), citizen of London, to John Chalk, draper, of New 
 Sarum (co. Wilts), to recover, if need be, by action at law, 
 the sum of 5/. Zs. sterling from Robert Hereford, spicer. 
 Sealed with the seal of the Mayoralty of the City of London, 
 his own seal being little known. 
 
 No date. Latin. 
 
 76. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of Bruges. 
 
 Had lately informed them* that Thomas Cheygner, mercer, 
 citizen of London, was next heir to Roger Pottere, citizen 
 of London, who had recently died in their country. Under- 
 stood that fuller information was required as to the right of 
 the said Thomas, and had therefore examined good and trust- 
 worthy citizens, and had discovered that Henry Cheygner, 
 the father of the said Thomas, and the aforesaid Roger were 
 descended from two brothers, and that the said Roger had no 
 surviving heir but the said Thomas, who was thereupon seised 
 of all his lands and tenements in England as his right heir. 
 Pray them, therefore, to make inquiry as to the possessions 
 of the said Roger in their country, and to cause them to be 
 delivered to the said Thomas without further delay. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the facts contained 
 in the above letter. Latin. 
 
 the name of " Easterlings," or " the Emperor's men," are supposed to have traded 
 here as early as the time of Ethelred II. The guild flourished in London as the 
 " Merchants of the Steelyard " till the time of Queen Elizabeth, when their special 
 privileges were abolished by royal decree. 
 * Letter No. 57, supra. 
 
38 
 
 Temp. ANDREW AUBREY, MAYOR [A.D. 135 1—2], 
 
 continued. 
 
 77. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of Croydon. 
 
 Had searched the Remembrances at the Guildhall which 
 are of record, and had found that John, son of William Mot, 
 of Croydon, was bound apprentice to Robert Chober, "hurere,"* 
 citizen of London, whose service he had suddenly quitted 
 contrary to his oath, and was understood to be residing in 
 their town. They are, therefore, desired to assist the said 
 Robert to recover him, as they would wish their folk to be 
 treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 15th August, j.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs and 
 Good Folk of the Town of Hechene (Hitchin, co. Herts), on 
 behalf of Richard Dygoun, weaver, for the recovery of Adam 
 Tristram, of " Hechene," his apprentice. 
 
 6th October, s.a. Latin. 
 
 78. Letter obligatory whereby Thomas de Baa, of Sewelle (co. 
 
 Northampton), becomes bound to Sir William de Ilkestone, 
 
 Rector of the church of St. Mary-le-Bow, in the sum of 
 
 16/. 6j. sterling, to be repaid in two instalments. Sealed with 
 
 the seal of the Mayoralty of the City of London in addition 
 
 to his own, which to many was unknown. 
 
 London, Thursday, the vigil of the Feast of St. 
 
 Bartholomew the Apostle (24th August), 26 
 
 Edward HI. (A.D. 1352). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 * A maker of hures, or rough hairy caps. The hurers or cappers were united 
 by charter of Henry VII. to the hatter-merchants in the sixteenth year of his reign, 
 and again united, in the following year, to the haberdashers, by the King's licence 
 under his great seal. City Records, Letter Book M, folios 27, 56 b. 
 
39 
 
 79. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Bailiffs 
 
 and Good Folk of the Town of Colcestre (Colchester), 
 
 Desiring them to assist Richard de Greylond, " pessoner,"* 
 citizen of London, to recover possession of George de Ford- 
 ham, his runaway apprentice, who was understood to be 
 residing in their town, that he might bring him back to the 
 City of London to serve him according to the customs of the 
 said City, in such manner as they would wish their folk to be 
 treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have them in 
 his keeping. 
 
 London, 6th September, s.a. French. 
 
 80. Letter of attorney from John de Preston, citizen and " corder" of 
 
 London, to his friend Robert de Oxenford, burgess of Bristut 
 (Bristol). 
 
 To recover from John Bromle, residing in " Bristut," late 
 his tenant in Southwark, divers goods and chattels which he 
 had removed from his brewhouse. Sealed with the seal of 
 the Mayoralty of the City of London in addition to his own, 
 which was not sufficiently known. 
 
 London, Thursday next before the Feast of the 
 Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (8th Sep- 
 tember), 26 Edward III. (A.D. 1352). 
 
 French. 
 
 81. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor, 
 
 Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Cauntebregge (Cam- 
 bridge), under seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that Esmon de Cone, goldsmith, citizen of 
 London, who had been arrested by the said bailiffs when he 
 was travelling in their part of the country with goods and 
 chattels to the value of forty pounds sterling, on suspicion 
 that he had dishonestly come by them, was a good man and 
 loyal, and praying, therefore, that for love's sake they may be 
 
 * Fishmonger. 
 
40 
 
 restored entire to him, that there might be no necessity to 
 write again on the same subject. The Lord, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the character of the 
 said Esmon, and a note of similar letters having been sent to 
 the same, under the common seal of the City of London, and 
 also to Robert de Thorpe and his fellow justices in the county 
 of Cambridge, on behalf of the same. Latin. 
 
 82. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, the Aldermen, and Commonalty of the 
 
 City of London to John de Madenhuthe. 
 
 Martyn le Gardiler, drover, citizen of London, had com- 
 plained that a sum of money had been taken from William 
 Hobbe, of Staundone, his servant, whilst on his way to the 
 North to purchase cattle for him, by the bailiffs of the town 
 of " Seynt Botouf,"* on suspicion that he had dishonestly 
 come by the same. It was understood that the money had 
 been handed over to him by the said bailiffs. He is desired, 
 therefore, to restore the same to Thomas Aubrey, citizen of 
 London, and attorney of the said Martyn, as it had been 
 proved, on good evidence, that the said William was a good 
 man and loyal, and had received the money for the purpose 
 aforesaid ; and to send word by bearer what he shall have 
 done, that there might be no occasion to write again on the 
 same subject. nth October, j.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs of St. 
 Botolph on the same subject Latin. 
 
 83. Andrew Aubrey, Mayor, &c., to the Bailiffs of Oxenford 
 
 (Oxford). 
 
 Desiring them to restore to John Jordan, citizen of London, 
 or. his attorney, the cloths, silver spoons, hanap of mazer.f 
 
 * St. Botolph's town, or Boston, co. Lincoln. 
 t Vide Letter No. 23, supra, note +. 
 
41 
 
 and other goods and chattels, to the value of ten pounds 
 sterling, which they had found in the possession of Margaret 
 de Marcherne, servant to the said John, who had robbed her 
 master of the same and had run away, and been arrested by 
 them in their town. 
 
 Date illegible. French. 
 
 Temp. ANDREW AUBREY, MAYOR [A.D. \i^\—2\, continued. 
 
 84. The Mayor, Aldermen, &c., to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the 
 
 Town of Gloiicestre (Gloucester). 
 
 Informing them of the preceding letter, to which the 
 bailiffs of Oxford had replied that ere its arrival they had 
 already given up to the aforesaid Margaret the goods which 
 they had seized on suspicion, owing to a letter sealed with 
 the seal of the town of Gloucester, which they had received, 
 testifying to the good character of the said Margaret, a copy 
 of which had been forwarded to the writers. They are desired, 
 therefore, to make restitution to the aforesaid John Jordan, or 
 his attorney, of the said goods and chattels which, by reason 
 of their letter, had been wrongfully surrendered, that there 
 might be no necessity for annoying their folk repairing to 
 London, owing to their default. 
 
 27th October, s.a. French. 
 
 LETTERS SENT temp. ADAM FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR 
 
 [A.D. 1352—4]. 
 
 85. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Lesclus 
 (Sluys). 
 
 Certifying that Johane, the younger daughter of Waryn 
 Fattyng, citizen of London and bearer of these letters, is the 
 next heir to Johane her sister, the elder daughter of the same, 
 late wife of Oliver Feryng, burgess of their town, who had 
 died seised of lands and tenements in their country ; and 
 
42 
 
 praying, therefore, that they will assist her in vindicating her 
 title, in such manner as they would wish their folk to be 
 treated in like case or weightier. The Lord, &c. 
 
 1 0th November, s.a. French. 
 
 86. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 
 and Bailiffs of Noef Chasteal (Newcastle). 
 
 Certifying that the ship which Richard, the servant of John 
 de Mutford, citizen of London, lately freighted with forty-four 
 quarters of oats, two quarters of corn, two quarters of hay, 
 and eight barrels of other merchandise, bound for the City 
 of London, had been discharged in the said City the i6th 
 day of November last past. 
 
 London, 22nd November, s.a. French. 
 
 87. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Ship- 
 stowe (? Chepstow, co. Monmouth). 
 
 Roger Bountayn, residing in London, had complained that 
 when lately travelling in their part of the country he had 
 been arrested by their bailiff on suspicion of his being a bad 
 man, and that ioj. 6d. in money, two chains and a ring of silver 
 of the value of 5^., and a robe trimmed with white budge,* of 
 the value of "js. 6d., had been taken from him and were still 
 detained. The said Roger had been found, on trustworthy 
 evidence, to have resided in London for fifteen years and 
 more, and had always conducted himself as a good and loyal 
 man. They are, therefore, desired, for love's sake, to restore 
 to him the goods and chattels which he had lost. 
 
 London, ist September, s.a. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the loyalty of the 
 above Roger Bountayn. Latin. 
 
 * Lambskin with the wool dressed outwards, often worn on the edges of capes, 
 as gowns of Bachelors of Arts are still made. 
 
43 
 
 88. The same to the Abbot* of Seynt Auban (St. Albans). 
 
 Desiring him to cause his baihfifs to give up to John Cokk, 
 drover, citizen of London, four oxen of divers colours, which 
 had strayed from a pasture near " Haryngeye," in the county 
 of Middlesex, into his lordship ; one of which had been 
 brought by his farmer, John de Chiltern, to " Langele," and 
 the other three to the town of St. Albans. 
 
 London, 9th January, s.a. French. 
 
 89. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Lesclus (Sluys), 
 in Flanders. 
 
 Aubrey, the widow and executrix of John de Bedeford, 
 late citizen of London, and divers other trustworthy folks, 
 had publicly testified that Herman de Honyfeld had been 
 bound to Pieres Plate, burgess of " Lesclus," on behalf of the 
 said John, in seven livres " des grotz"\ which the said Aubrey 
 had, since the death of her husband, received. They are, 
 therefore, desired to put a stop to any action that might 
 be brought before them against the said Herman for the 
 recovery of the said debt. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 19th January, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a precisely similar letter having been sent to the 
 same on Saturday next after the Feast of the Ascension, 
 27 Edward IIL (A.D. 1353), and afterwards another to the 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of Bruges, dated 23rd May in 
 the same year. Latin. 
 
 * Thomas de la Mare, a munificent benefactor to the Abbey. He was Abbot 
 at the time the rebellion under Wat Tyler broke out. The rebels marched to 
 St. Albans and demanded the right to hunt and fish over the lands and waters 
 of the Abbey, but were put down by the approach of King Richard II. in person, 
 accompanied by his Treasurer, Sir Robert Tressilian, and an armed force. He died 
 at an advanced age in 1389. 
 
 + Vide Letter No. 60, sufra, note. 
 
44 
 
 90. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Seynt Auban 
 (St. Albans). 
 
 Certifying that two oxen which had been seized by them 
 as belonging to John le Honte, who was bringing them to 
 London, in reality belonged to John Cok, drover and citizen 
 of London, his master, and requesting the delivery of the 
 same to him, the said John Cok, or his attorney, the bearer of 
 these letters, that there might be no occasion to write again 
 on the same subject. 
 
 London, 24th January, s.a. French. 
 
 91. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Gloucestre 
 (Gloucester), under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Reminding them of a former letter* addressed to them, 
 dated the 27th day of October, and expressing surprise that 
 nothing had been done by them. Again desire them, in 
 order to preserve the existing good feeling, both to restore 
 to John Jordan, citizen of London, the goods and chattels 
 of which he had been robbed by his servant Margaret de 
 Merchern, to whom the bailiffs of Oxford had restored the 
 same by reason of the testimony borne by the bailiffs of 
 Gloucester in her favour, and at the same time to make good 
 any loss he may have sustained on that account. They are 
 to have the goodness to certify by letters by bearer what they 
 shall have done. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 26th January, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the same, under 
 the Common Seal, dated 3rd September. Latin. 
 
 92. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of Bruges. 
 On the same subject as No. j6, supra. 
 Understood that they desired to know the amount of 
 * Letter No. 84, supra. 
 
45 
 
 goods in England belonging to Roger Pottere at the time 
 
 of his decease in Flanders. Upon examination it had 
 
 been found that all the property of the said Roger, after 
 
 paying his debts, amounted to sixteen pounds sterling, 
 
 English money ; and, further, it had been proved, on the 
 
 evidence of trustworthy persons who were present at his 
 
 death in the house of John Remmakere* of "Lesclus" (Sluys), 
 
 that there had been found upon him sixty-three nobles 
 
 in gold pieces and twenty shillings in one parcel, and twelve 
 
 pounds sterling, English money, in another parcel, also a 
 
 bond in 120 crowns of Flemish money, all of which had 
 
 been handed over to Jacob Marestaple,t burgess of Bruges, 
 
 in presence of witnesses. They are desired to see that if 
 
 any portion of the above be applied by the said Jacob 
 
 or by any one else otherwise than it ought according to the 
 
 customs and laws of Flanders, restitution be made to the 
 
 right heir or to John Henkele, his attorney, clerk of the 
 
 StapleJ of the English Company. 
 
 London, 29th January, s.a. French. 
 
 93. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Redynge 
 (Reading). 
 
 Desiring them for love's sake to deliver up to Nicholas 
 Ploket and John de Hardyngham, citizens of London, or 
 to their attorney, the bearer of these letters, three " sarplers " 
 and one "poket" of wool belonging to them, which they 
 had recently purchased from a merchant of Salisbury to 
 carry to "Redynge," where it had remained in the custody 
 
 * Or Le Remmakere. + Or De Marestaple. 
 
 X In order to encourage trade with the Flemings Staples had at various 
 times been established in Flanders. But owing to the serious losses sustained 
 by the people of England by reason that the Staple of wool, leather, and wool- 
 fells was held without the realm, it was about this period (viz., by the Statute of 
 Staples, mentioned supra, No. 17, note) ordained that from thenceforth the Staples 
 should be held at certain specified places in England, Wales, and Ireland, and not 
 elsewhere. Walsingham, p. 278 ; City Records, Letter Book G, fol. 7. 
 
46 
 
 of Hugh Croft ; that there might be no necessity^ tO: write- 
 again on the same subject. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 2nd February, s.a. French. 
 
 94. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the City of Canterbirs 
 
 (Canterbury). 
 
 Desiring them to assist Hamond Colbrond, " corder," 
 citizen of London, to recover his runaway apprentice, John 
 le Chaundeler, son of Peter le Chaundeler de " Canterbirs," 
 who was understood to be residing in their city ; in such 
 manner as they would wish their folk to be treated in like 
 case or weightier. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 7th February, s.a. French. 
 
 Temp. KTiPM. FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR [a.d. 1352—4], continued. 
 
 95. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Huntyngdone. 
 
 Expressing surprise that nothing had been done in respect 
 of a former letter, wherein they had been desired to restore to 
 Robert Berd, " brasiere " and citizen of London, the distress 
 they had taken for custom claimed by them on all mer- 
 chandise passing through their country. Again request them 
 to restore the same, inasmuch as the said Robert and all 
 who are of the franchise of the City of London are and 
 ought to be quit* of all manner of custom throughout the 
 King's dominion. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 20th February, s.a. French. 
 
 96. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Gypeswyz (Ipswich). 
 
 Desiring them similarly to restore to Stephen Bayon, 
 merchantf of Bernard Dyos, citizen of London, the distress 
 
 * Vide Letter No. 68, supra, note f. 
 t Cf. Letter No. n, supra, note. 
 
47 
 
 they had taken from his merchandise when passing through 
 their part of the country, contrary to the liberties of the 
 City of London. The Lord, &c. 
 
 20th March, s.a. French. 
 
 97. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 Maldon. 
 
 Requesting them to restore to John de Wymondeham, 
 citizen of London, the distress they had taken of tenpence 
 per mark on the purchase money lately paid by him to 
 the executors of Robert Brian, of Wodeham, for a messuage 
 in their town of Maldon, as being contrary to the liberties 
 of the City of London. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 2 1 st March, s.a. French. 
 
 98. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Sandwiz (Sandwich). 
 
 Desiring them to cause John de Neubury, baker, residing 
 in their part of the country, to pay to William de Henneye, 
 citizen of London, the sum of 40^. sterling, due for four 
 quarters of corn which he had lately purchased from him; 
 in such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated 
 in like case or weightier when repairing to London. The 
 Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, the last day of March, s.a. French. 
 
 99. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Jernemue (Yar- 
 mouth). 
 
 Gilbert de Meldebourne, citizen of London, had com- 
 plained that Beraud de Gascoigne and Johane, his wife, had 
 lived at his table from the Feast of All Saints (ist November) 
 last past up to the Feast of the Purification of Our Lady 
 (2nd February) next ensuing, when it was found that the said 
 Beraud was indebted to the said Gilbert to the extent of 34^-., 
 and that he and his wife had suddenly left the City by 
 night without satisfying him of the debt, and were now 
 
48 
 
 believed to be staying in their town. They are, therefore, 
 desired to compel the said Beraud to pay the same to 
 the said Gilbert or to John de Bedeford, burgess of Yarmouth, 
 his attorney, in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 repairing to London to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 The Lord, &c. 
 
 13th April, s.a. French. 
 
 100. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Faversham. 
 
 John de Hatfeld, chandler, citizen of London, had 
 complained that whereas he and Nicholas Dagh, of Faver- 
 sham, had been joint owners of a ship called a " Crayere "* 
 since the Feast of All Saints (ist November) in the twenty- 
 third year of the reign of the lord the King that now is 
 (a.d. 1349), he had not received his moiety of the profit 
 therefrom. They are, therefore, desired to cause the said 
 Nicholas to appear and satisfy the said John, or his attorney, 
 the bearer of these letters, of the said moiety due. 
 
 19th April, s.a. French. 
 
 101. The same to the same. 
 
 Desiring them to compel Nicholas Dagh, of Faversham, 
 to render an account to John de Hatfeld, chandler, of money 
 received on the Feast of All Saints in the twenty-third 
 year of the reign of the lord the King that now is (a.d. i 349), 
 wherewith to trade for the profit of the said John until 
 the Feast of Easter next ensuing. 
 
 23 rd April, s.a. French. 
 
 102. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Southampton. 
 
 Roger Rotour and Thomas de Bonwode, citizens of 
 London, had complained of a distress having been taken 
 from their merchandise for " pesage,"f which was claimed 
 on all merchandise passing through their parts, contrary 
 
 * A small merchant ship. 
 
 t A custom or duty paid for weighing commodities. 
 
49 
 
 to the liberties of the said City of London. They are, 
 therefore, requested to restore the distress so taken, inasmuch 
 as all who are of the franchise of the said City are and ought 
 to be quit of " pesage " and of all manner of custom through- 
 out the King's dominion. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 22nd April, s.a. French. 
 
 103. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Gippeswiz (Ipswich). 
 
 Desiring them to restore the distress they had taken 
 from Thomas Pyeke, draper and citizen of London, for 
 custom which, they claimed on all merchandise passing 
 through their parts, contrary to the liberties of the said 
 City of London. 
 
 London, the last day of April, s.a. French. 
 
 104. The same to the same. 
 
 Expressing surprise that nothing had been done in 
 respect of the above letter, and again requesting the restitu- 
 tion of the distress taken from the aforesaid Thomas Pyeke, 
 that there might be no occasion to write again on the same 
 subject, nor for annoying their folk repairing to London, 
 owing to their default. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 7th May, s.a. French. 
 
 105. Letters patent of Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen 
 
 of the City of London, under seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that John de Farnham, of " Estchepe,"* 
 " bochier,"t was a citizen of London, and quit of all manner 
 of custom throughout the King's dominion. 
 
 London, 7th May, 27 Edward IIL (A.D. 1353). French. 
 
 * Eastcheap, a great "ceap" or market of London in the Anglo-Saxon times, 
 in contradistinction to West Chepe, the market held in the locality now known as 
 Cheapside. As early as the thirteenth century it was one of the butchers' markets 
 of London. 
 
 t Butcher. 
 
 E 
 
50 
 
 106. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Mayor, Assessors, and Collectors of the 
 Fifteenth* granted to the King in the Town of Redyng 
 (Reading). 
 
 Desiring them to restore the distress which they had 
 taken from the goods and chattels of John Catour, vintner, 
 citizen of London, when passing through their town, for the 
 payment of his share of a fifteenth granted to the King, 
 inasmuch as all the goods and chattels of the said John 
 within the King's dominion had been already assessed in the 
 City of London in respect of the same, and his share paid. 
 The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 3rd June, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs, 
 &c., of Aillesbury (Aylesbury) on behalf of William de 
 Sarum, in respect of pledges taken for custom called 
 " stallage,"! dated 6th June ; and of another, on behalf of the 
 same, sent to the Bailiffs of Kyngestone (Kingston) in respect 
 of custom taken from him, of the same date. 
 
 Also of a letter sent to the Prior and Convent of Latton 
 (co. Essex) for the recovery of a runaway apprentice of 
 Henry Staverne, dated 7th June. , . 
 
 107. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Bristut (Bristol). 
 
 Walter de Kelshull, tailor and citizen of London, had 
 complained that four robes which he had cut and made 
 up, belonging to good folk of the said City, had been 
 removed out of his possession, and were now understood 
 to be in the possession of one Walter de Dyvelyn in 
 their town. He could produce samples of the cloth of 
 the said robes in evidence of the truth of his statement ; 
 they are, therefore, desired for love's sake to seize the robes 
 
 * Vide Letter No. 69, supra, note. 
 
 + Money paid for the right of erecting stalls in fairs and markets. 
 
51 
 
 and to put him to the proof, according to law and reason 
 and the custom of their town. 
 
 London, 7th June, s.a. French. 
 
 Temp. ADAM FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR [A.D. 1352—4], continued. 
 
 108. The same to the Earl of Angos* and Lord of Kytne (co. 
 
 Lincoln). 
 
 Desiring him to restore to William Malwayn, citizen 
 of London, the distress which had been taken by the 
 bailiffs of the lordship of Kyme from his goods and chattels 
 for custom demanded on all wools passing through the 
 said lordship, inasmuch as the said William and all who 
 are of the franchise of the City of London are and 
 ought to be quit of all manner of custom throughout 
 the King's dominion. Should he desire anything on his 
 part, they (the writers) would be ready to do what they 
 could. 
 
 London, 17th June, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs and 
 Good Folk of the Town of Sleford (co. Lincoln) on behalf 
 of the said William. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 109. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Wyncestre (Win- 
 
 chester). 
 
 Testifying to the good character of Roger de Devon- 
 shire, servant of John de Triple, citizen of London, who 
 had been arrested and put into prison by the said bailiffs, 
 and praying his release. 
 
 London, 4th July, s.a. French. 
 
 * Gilbert de Umfreville, summoned to Parliament as Earl of Angus from 
 A.D. 1332 to 1380, one of the commissioners appointed by the King to treat 
 with Scotland for the ransom of David Bruce in 1356. Rymer's 'Fredera,' 
 vol. iii. part i. p. 325. 
 
 E2 
 
52 
 
 110. Power of attorney from Nicholas Blake, citizen and vintner 
 
 of London, to William de Pountfreyt and Thomas Clay, 
 to recover against Alexander de Hiltoft, citizen of London 
 and haberdasher, and Thomas de Godicote, citizen and 
 cordwainer, the sum of 400 marks in which they were 
 indebted to him. Sealed with the seal of the Mayoralty 
 of the City of London, his own seal not being sufficiently 
 known. 
 
 London, Saturday next before the Feast of the 
 Translation of St. Thomas the Martyr (3rd July), 
 27 Edward III. (A.D. 1353). Latin. 
 
 111. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to William de Nottone and his Fellow Justices 
 set over Labourers,* Servants, and other Folk in the Town 
 of Seynt Auban (St. Albans). 
 
 Setting forth that Roger Hackesalt and Robert de 
 Shilyngtone, workers in wood for saddles, without which 
 neither the great folk of'the land nor the common people 
 can be served, had been disturbed in their craft, which 
 they had always exercised, not knowing nor using any 
 other ; and that if they be disturbed neither the saddle 
 makers nor the " Fuisters "f of the City can follow their 
 craft, nor serve the great folk of the land nor the common 
 people. Pray, therefore, that the said Roger and Robert 
 may be permitted to exercise their trade as heretofore for 
 the common weal. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 15 th July, j.«. French. 
 
 112. The same to the PriorJ and Convent of the Town of Seynt 
 Auban (St. Albans). 
 
 A similar letter to the above, desiring them to command 
 
 * By the Statute of Labourers, 23 Edward III., commissioners were appointed 
 to supervise workmen. 
 
 t Joiners or makers of the woodwork of saddles. 
 
 X Thomas de la Mare. Vide Letter No. 88, supra, note. 
 
53 
 
 John de Wynselowe and Thomas Morteyn, their bailiffs, 
 to allow the said Roger Hackesalt and Robert de Shilyng- 
 tone to follow their trade, and not to hinder them as they 
 from malice had done, that there might be no necessity 
 to bring the matter before the King and his Council, 
 nor to annoy their folk repairing to London, which 
 thing they (the writers) would be loth to do. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 2 1 St July, J.«. French. 
 
 113. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town 
 
 of Bruges. 
 
 Certifying that John de Triple, citizen of London, had 
 recently recovered in the Sheriffs' Court the sum of 
 17/. Zs. lid. against Matthew Restor, goldsmith, who had 
 stood surety for his brother, John Restor, for that amount, due 
 to the said John de Triple for wool purchased of him. 
 Desire them to cause the said John Restor, who is residing 
 in their parts, to repay the same to his brother. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 24th July, s.a. French. 
 
 114. The same to the Bailiffs, Constables, and Good Folk of the 
 
 Town of Ware. 
 
 Testifying to the good character of John atte Lofte, of 
 " Euerwyk " (York), mercer, and desiring them for love's sake 
 to restore the horse and other goods and chattels, to the 
 value of 40J. sterling, which had been taken from him, when 
 travelling in their parts, on suspicion that he had unlaw- 
 fully come by them. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 26th July, s.a. French. 
 
 115. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Sandwiz (Sand- 
 
 wich). 
 
 Desiring them to hear a complaint of Maude de Wortham, 
 residing in the City of London, who had many times suffered 
 
54 
 
 annoyance and hurt from John de Wesenham, their "Jus- 
 tizable," and to do therein as law and reason demand for 
 love's sake, in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 27th July, s.a. French. 
 
 116, The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Suthampton 
 
 (Southampton). 
 
 Adam de Wymondham, citizen of London and mercer, 
 had complained that Jordan de Parys and Giles de Caumbrey, 
 merchants, having purchased " mercerie "* of him to the 
 value of 100/. sterling, had left the City without paying him. 
 Desire them, therefore, to compel the said Jordan and Giles, 
 who are understood to be in their parts, to satisfy the said 
 Adam or his attorney, the bearer, of the said debt. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 6th August, s.a. Frettck. 
 
 117. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, &c. [of the City of London], to 
 
 the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of Bristut (Bristol). 
 
 Peter Furlour, merchant of " Bristut," had complained 
 that " Eleyne," the mother of Richard Neville, his apprentice, 
 had maliciously accused him of having killed her son. The 
 evidence of trustworthy witnesses, which they are asked to 
 believe, showed that on Tuesday before the Feast of the 
 Nativity of Our Lady (8th September), in the twenty-fifth 
 year of the reign of the King (Edward III.), the said Richard 
 had taken leave of his master to go to Ware on a visit to his 
 friends, to return on the third day next ensuing ; that he had 
 departed in good health on the said day and year, and 
 had not returned. The Lord, &c. 
 
 1 2th August, s.a. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of 
 the above letter. 
 * Mercery, small or fine goods and wares, as distinguished from those sold in 
 
■55 
 
 118. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Maydenstane (Maidstone). 
 
 Alice, wife of Richard Herle, "jueler," citizen of London, 
 had complained that her husband had been arrested by 
 them on suspicion, together with jewels of gold and silver, 
 broken pieces of silver, and similar things appertaining to 
 his trade, to the value of looj. sterling and more, and was 
 still in confinement, contrary to law and reason. They are 
 requested to release him and restore to him his goods entire, 
 as he is a man of good character and had lawfully come by 
 the same. The Lord, &c. 
 
 13 th August, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to Reginald de Cobham, 
 Knt., Governor of the Town of Calles (Calais) and Constable 
 of Gynes (Guisnes), concerning Peter Hiltoft, apprentice to 
 Robert de Walcote, goldsmith, dated 6th September. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 119. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen, &c. [of the City 
 
 of London], to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town 
 of Gippeswyz (Ipswich). 
 
 Robert de Appelby, Sergeant-at-Arms, and William de 
 Aumesbury had complained that Naudyn de Bleynes, mer- 
 chant of " Burdeux" (Bordeaux), was indebted to the said 
 Robert in the sum of 10/. sterling, for goods purchased in 
 the said town of " Burdeux," and to the said William in 
 six tuns of wine, neither of which had been paid. It was 
 understood that the said Naudyn had now four ships laden 
 with salt* at their town of " Gippeswyz"; they are requested, 
 therefore, to summon him before them, and, after hearing 
 both parties, to do therein as law and reason demand. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 9th September, s.a. French. 
 
 * del, perhaps oil. Vide Kelham's ' Dictionary of the Norman or Old French 
 Language,' s.v. " Seel." 
 
56 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs 
 of Cantebrege (Cambridge) on behalf of J. de Warre, 
 " shechere,"* concerning Laurence, his apprentice, dated 14th 
 September; and of another to the Bailiffs and Good Folk 
 of the Town of Haveryng-atte-Boure (co. Essex), on behalf 
 of John FresoU, dyer, concerning Richard Merable, his 
 apprentice, dated i8th September. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 Temp. ADAM FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR [a.d. 1352—4], 
 
 continued. 
 
 120. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the City 
 
 of Euerwyk (York). 
 
 Certifying, upon trustworthy evidence, that John de Brigge, 
 of the county of " Euerwyk," had arrived in the City of 
 London the 2nd day of September last past, and had 
 resided continuously therein until the 14th day of the 
 same month. 
 
 London, 6th October, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent 'to the Sheriffs 
 of Enerwyk, of the same date ; also names of witnesses to 
 the contents of the above letter. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Bailiffs of the 
 Town of Lenne (Lynn, co. Norfolk) on behalf of Peter Ruget, 
 armourer, for the recovery of John, his apprentice. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 121. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Judges 
 
 and Justiciary of the City of Valentia, in the Kingdom of 
 Arragon. 
 
 Testifying that Peter Moyen, merchant of Valentia, had 
 lately sold to divers merchants of the City of London twenty 
 cases of soap as being of a good quality and marketable ; 
 
 * Qy. a sheather, or maker of sheaths for knives. 
 
57 
 
 but so great deceit was found to have been practised in the 
 manufacture of the said soap, that he had lost by the sale 
 thereof the sum of 1 3/. gs. 4\d. besides damages in respect 
 of the said deceit. Wish them farewell in the Saviour 
 of all. 
 
 London, 6th November, s.a. Latin. 
 
 122. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, the Aldermen, and Commonalty of 
 
 the City of London to William de Sharshulle and William 
 Basset, Justices of the Lord the King. 
 
 Desiring their favour towards Henry de Sutton, citizen of 
 London and Bailiff of Southwark, who had been maliciously 
 indicted by some person badly disposed towards him ; and 
 asking them, if possible, to wait until they should come to 
 London, as they could there be more fully informed touching 
 the matters relating to him. They might confidently rely 
 upon the writers in any wish they might express. The Lord 
 have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 9th November, s.a. French. 
 
 123. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of Gloucestre 
 (Gloucester). 
 
 Desiring them to compel Thomas, son of William Porter, 
 of " Gloucestre," to satisfy Andrew Aubrey, citizen of London, 
 of a debt of iooj. sterling, which had been owing for a long 
 time. 
 
 London, 21st November, s.a. French. 
 
 124. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Lesclus 
 
 (Sluys). 
 
 Certifying that John Pelegrym " fitz Loth " and William 
 Crudener, merchants of "Lesclus," had satisfied John Bartelot, 
 citizen of London, of the sum of 3/. 13J. due for 
 merchandise. 
 
 London, nth January, s.a. French. 
 
58 
 
 125. The same to John Salkyn, Henry Lyderer, William Ferthinge, 
 and Richard Deushe, of the Isle of Tenet (Thanet). 
 
 Whereas Richard Bacon and John de Coloigne, citizens 
 of London, and Albert del Putte, merchant of Almaine, had 
 ■ lately freighted a ship of Flanders at " Lesclus" (Sluys), John 
 Sak master, with fourteen lasts of herrings in barrels, bound 
 for London, which ship, being driven by stress of weather 
 to the Isle of " Tenet," was there wrecked ; and whereas it 
 was understood that a portion of the said herrings had been 
 saved by their assistance, and remained still in their custody : 
 they are especially desired to deliver up the same to the 
 said Albert del Putte, attorney of the said Richard and 
 John, receiving from him a reasonable remuneration for 
 their trouble. Should they desire anything on their part, 
 they (the writers) would be ready to do what they could. 
 
 London, 1 2th January, j.a. French. 
 
 126. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Dunkyrk, in 
 
 Flanders. 
 
 Desiring them to cause the heir and executors of John le 
 White, formerly a burgess of their town and now deceased, 
 to pay to William de Braynford, citizen and fishmonger of 
 London, the sum of twelve golden crowns and three barrels 
 of salt,* of the value of I2J. sterling, which he had lent to 
 the said John, and had not been repaid. 
 
 London, 23rd January, s.a. French. 
 
 127. [The same to * ' * * * *] 
 
 Desiring them to restore to Richard de Depham, citizen 
 of London, or Robert his brother, the bearer of these letters, 
 the 473 cheeses with which he had lately freighted a vessel 
 at " Erhiche" (Erith), and which had been seized and were 
 still detained by them without reasonable cause ; and if 
 any were missing to make restitution, lest complaint be 
 made to the King and his Council. No date. French. 
 
 * Seel. Vide Letter No. 119, supra, note. 
 
59 
 
 Temp. ADAM FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR [A.D. 1352—4], 
 
 continued. 
 
 128. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of Woburnchapele 
 (co. Beds). 
 
 Desiring them to give up the person of John, son of 
 William Wyncestre, cordwainer and citizen of London, to 
 Sir Thomas de Buterlee, chaplain, the bearer of these letters, 
 and next friend to the said John, who, being an orphan,* had 
 by fraud and malice been removed out of the City of London 
 into their bailiwick, contrary to the liberties and customs of 
 the said City. 
 
 London, i8th Februaiy, s.a. French, 
 
 129. The same to the Chancellor of Henry, Duke of Lancaster. f 
 
 Informing him that Ralph de Stanfeld, felmonger, the 
 bearer of these letters, was a citizen of London, and should 
 enjoy the franchise of the said City throughout the King's 
 dominion, and desiring him to command the bailiffs and 
 officers of the said Henry, Duke of Lancaster, to allow the 
 said Ralph to go to and fro with his merchandise, quit of 
 all manner of custom in his seignory. Should he desire any- 
 thing on his part, they would be ready to do what they 
 could. The Lord have him in his keeping. 
 
 London, 19th February, s.a. French. 
 
 130. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Covyntre 
 
 (Coventry). 
 
 John de Gonwardby, citizen of London, had complained 
 that Roger de Boydon, burgess of their town, was indebted to 
 him in the sum of 9/. \os. sterling, for merchandise lately bought 
 of him in London, not one penny of which had been paid. 
 Desire them, therefore, to compel the said Roger to satisfy 
 
 * Concerning the right of the Corporation of the City of London to the 
 custody of orphans, vide Letter No. 25 j, infra, note. 
 t Vide Letter No. 58, supra, note. 
 
6o 
 
 the said claim, in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 6th March, s.a. French. 
 
 131. Letters patent of Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen 
 
 of the City of London. 
 
 Certifying that John Restor, burgess of Bruges, was at 
 liberty to visit the said City without fear of arrest at the suit 
 of John de Triple, citizen of London. Sealed with the seal 
 of the Mayoralty of the said City, and also with the seal of 
 the said John de Triple. 
 
 London, 17th March, s.a. French. 
 
 132. Letter testimonial* [from the Mayor, Aldermen, and Com- 
 
 monalty of the City of London] to the Pope, on behalf of 
 Cesario,t Bishop of Sancta Maria de Rosis, recommending 
 him for ecclesiastical preferment as being a man of exemplary 
 character. No date. Latin. 
 
 A note that the above letter is entered in Letter Book G, 
 fol. 17. 
 
 133. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Lynne 
 (co. Norfolk). 
 
 Informing them that William Burghwell, citizen of London, 
 had lately purchased in the county of Cambridge 120 
 quarters of wheat to carry to the said City of London, and 
 had shipped it on board a small vessel, William Muriel of 
 " Recher " being master ; and desiring them to let the same 
 pass free of custom, inasmuch as the said William Burghwell 
 and all who are of the franchise of the City of London are 
 and ought to be quit of all manner of custom throughout the 
 King's dominion. Should they desire anything on their part, 
 
 * Printed in Riley's ' Memorials of London,' p. 273. 
 t Vide Letter No. 52, sup}-a. 
 
6i 
 
 they (the writers) would be ready to do what they could. The 
 Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 29th March, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor, Bailiffs, 
 and Good Folk of the Town of Oxford on behalf of William 
 de Mortone, weaver, for the recovery of his apprentice 
 John, son of Robert atte Hegge, of Sutton, dated ist 
 April. Latin. 
 
 134. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Huntyngdone (Huntingdon). 
 
 Complaining of their bailiffs having taken distress from 
 four carts carrying cloths through their country, belonging to 
 Adam Fraunceys, citizen of London, for custom which they 
 demanded, contrary to the franchise of the said City of 
 London]; and praying them, therefore, to restore the distress 
 so taken, that there might be no occasion to write again on 
 the same subject, nor to annoy their folk repairing to London, 
 owing to their default. 
 
 London, nth April, s.a. French. 
 
 135. Adam Fraunceys, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Bristut 
 (Bristol). 
 
 Had heard a complaint of Nicholas Chapman, burgess 
 of "Bristut," that his goods, and the goods of John de 
 Stoke, burgess of the same, had been seized by their bailiffs 
 on the King's writ, at the suit of Henry Bondequere, for 
 certain matters touching Elys Fraunceys, citizen of London, 
 and Hamond Colbrond. Pray them to send a copy of the 
 said writ and cause of seizure, and to delay execution until 
 they arrive, accepting in the mean time sufficient security 
 for the goods, as it was understood that the said Nicholas and 
 John would be relieved of the arrest by process of law. 
 
 London, 14th April, s.a. French. 
 
62 
 
 136. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor and Baihffs of the Town of Siith\_amptoii\. 
 
 Certain trustworthy citizens of London had certified 
 on oath that Roger Wodeby, William de Brakyngburgh, 
 and Symon Gentil had lately freighted a ship at " Lesclus " 
 (Sluys), in Flanders, Peter Spynathe master, with goods 
 to the value of 900 crowns, to be carried to London for a 
 stipulated sum, with orders that the said Peter should not 
 depart until certain other large English vessels were prepared 
 to sail thither. In the absence, however, of the said Roger, 
 William, and Symon at Bruges, he had set sail before his 
 time, voyaging whithersoever he pleased, and nothing had 
 since been seen either of him or the merchandise. He was 
 now understood to have come to their town of " Suth- 
 ampton." Pray them, therefore, to arrest him and his goods, 
 and compel him to give satisfaction, in such manner as 
 they would wish their folk to be treated in like case or 
 weightier. 
 
 London, 4th May, s.a. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of the 
 above letter. 
 
 137. [The same] to John de Beauchamp,* Admiral of the South. 
 
 Certifying that Servoise Gomaus, merchant of " Dynaunt,"t 
 who had complained that his goods had been seized by the 
 mayor and bailiffs of " Dovor " in the ship " John Petressone" 
 of " Lesclus " (Sluys), they believing him to be a freeman 
 of the City of London, is not free of the same, but resides 
 in the said City as a merchant stranger of the Hanse of 
 Almaine.l 
 
 London, loth June, s.a. French. 
 
 * A younger son of Guy, Earl of Warwick ; one of the founders of the Order 
 of the Garter ; buried in St. Paul's Cathedral. 
 
 t Dinant on the Meuse, one of the towns of the Hanseatic League. 
 J Vide Letter No. 74, supra, note t. 
 
63 
 
 138. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the City of Dyvelyn 
 (Dublin), in Ireland. 
 
 Had heard on trustworthy evidence that John de Hilton, 
 pewterer, citizen of London, lately had a servant named 
 Agnes, believing her to be unmarried. It had, however, 
 since been discovered that she was the wife of Richard 
 Taverner, of " Ikel)'ngtone," residing in their city of Dublin, 
 to whose house she had carried divers goods and chattels 
 belonging to her master, having broken open his coffers whilst 
 he was away at the fair at St. Ives, and taken goods to the 
 value of 30/. 14J. as appears by the parcels subjoined, to wit : 
 in gold, 10/.; in silver counted, 6/.; two pieces of silver, value 
 26j. %d.\ fourteen spoons of silver, value 20s.; one hanap of 
 mazer,* value \6s.; two pairs of "paternostrers"t of amber, 
 value 22J, ; one piece of medley cloth,| value iooj. ; one long 
 robe with the " pelure,"§ value 3 3 J. 41/. ; one short robe, value 
 7.0s. ; one stone called " pelitote,"|| value 16s. ; rings of gold, 
 value 20s. ; and divers pieces of " naperie,"^ value 20s. And 
 whereas the said John is not in a fit state to travel, they are 
 desired to assist John Walshe, the bearer of these letters, 
 acting as his attorney, in the recovery of the said goods and 
 chattels, and in bringing the said Richard and Agnes to 
 justice. 
 
 London, i6th December, s.a. French. 
 
 139. The same to the Bailiffs and "Barouns" of the Town of 
 
 Hastyngges (Hastings). 
 
 Had received their letter wherein they appear to think 
 that an ordinance had recently been made touching the 
 
 * Vide Letter No. 23, supra, note % 
 
 t Rosaries or prayer-beads. 
 
 X Cloth made of mixed materials. 
 
 § Prepared lambskin or goatskin, known as " budge." 
 
 II Some kind of precious stone. See Hunter's ' Nominale,' Brit. Mus. Add. 
 MS. 24,53s, fol. 13s," I annulus aureus cum i pelitot," taken from an Inventory of 
 Queen Isabel after her death, temp. Edward III. See also Ducange, j.^*. "Pelido." 
 
 IT Table linen. 
 
64 
 
 measure of baskets for fish sent to the City of London, and 
 assure them that no ordinance whatever had recently been 
 made in that respect, but that in the time of King Edward I.* 
 it was decreed that fishmongers of the City of London and 
 their partners should see that their baskets were convenient, 
 that is to say, that they should contain but one kind of fish, 
 and should not be dubbed, that is to say, have good fish 
 placed at the top and an inferior kind placed beneath them, 
 and that they should be of the measure of one bushel. 
 These ordinances were at the time publicly proclaimed, and 
 in cases of defect the baskets had been burntf in Chepe. 
 They had moreover been acknowledged by men of the trade 
 to be of ancient usage, and warning had been sent to their 
 town to remedy any defects that might have existed. They 
 are, therefore, desired to make this public to prevent further 
 inconvenience. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 5th June, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs of 
 
 the Town of Lenne, under seal of the Mayoralty, on behalf 
 
 of John Cherte, " pouche-makere," for the recovery of Roger, 
 
 son of Robert de St. Albans, his apprentice, dated i8th 
 
 August. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 Temp. THOMAS LEGGY, MAYOR [a.d. 1354—5], continued. 
 
 140. The Mayor, Sheriffs, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City 
 of London to the Prior Provincial, Masters in Divinity, 
 Bachelors, " listres " Priors, and all the other Brethren of 
 
 * Anno 8 Edward I. Vide 'Liber Albus' (Master of the Rolls Series), 
 pp. 378, 379, 381. 
 
 t An instance of this is recorded as having occurred anno i Edward II., in 
 which year, on Saturday next after the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, certain 
 fishmongers were sworn to hold a scrutiny of all fish baskets which did not contain 
 a bushel of corn, according to the statute ; and on the very same day they seized 
 eight baskets, which were produced before the Mayor and Aldermen at the Guild- 
 hall, and being examined and found too small were condemned to be burnt in 
 Chepe. Letter Book C, fol. 92 b. 
 
^5 
 
 the Order of St. Augustine in the Provincial Chapter of 
 Tykhulle (co. York). 
 
 Desiring them to allow Richard Savage to commence in 
 divinity, in accordance with his original purpose, notwith- 
 standing lapse of time, inasmuch as he had always led a 
 blameless life, was a credit to their Order, and a blessing 
 to all strangers repairing to the City of London. If they 
 granted this request, they would find the writers most favour- 
 able to their Order. The Holy Spirit increase them in holy 
 religion. 
 
 London, 9th July, s.a. French. 
 
 141. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Commonalty of the Town of 
 Neof chastel (Newcastle) on Tyne. 
 
 Acknowledging the receipt of their letter requesting the 
 surrender of John de Tesdale, saddler, apprenticed to Thomas 
 de Hexham, saddler, burgess of Newcastle, who had run away, 
 and was now understood to be in the service of John de 
 Blithe, saddler, citizen of London. The said apprentice had 
 been found to have bound himself to John Dexcestre, saddler, 
 citizen of London, for a term of three years, and he had 
 been handed over, as requested, to Thomas David to carry 
 back to his former master. And whereas John, son of John 
 Doxenford, of the county of Gloucester, had been bound 
 apprentice to the same John Dexcestre, according to the 
 custom of the City of London, for a term of seven years, and 
 had run away, and was now understood to be in their town 
 and living with the aforesaid Thomas de Hexham, they are 
 desired to deliver him up in like manner as the before- 
 mentioned apprentice had been delivered to them. 
 
 London, i8th August, s.a. French, 
 
 142. Thomas Leggy, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to Raynald Dyke, Sheriff of Kent. 
 
 Desiring him to render all legitimate assistance he can 
 
 F 
 
66 
 
 to William de Neubury, " comune servaunt " and clerk of 
 the Chapel of St. Thomas* on London Bridge, who had 
 been arrested within his jurisdiction at the suit of one William 
 de Bukkeby, parson of the church of St. Mary " Aldermannes 
 cherche,"t who, with others, had a mind to annoy the said 
 William de Neubury in every manner possible. Should he 
 desire anything on his part, he would find them ready. 
 Adieu, &c. 
 
 London, 19th August, s.a. French. 
 
 143. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Bartone on 
 Hombre (Barton-on-Humber). 
 
 Had informed them in a previous letterj how that one 
 Adam, a bailiff of their town, had failed to carry out an 
 agreement to bring to the water's edge a certain number of 
 quarters of corn purchased of him by William Hesille, citizen 
 of London, five quarters of the same being still owing ; 
 desiring them at the same time to see satisfaction done for 
 breach of contract. Express surprise that nothing had been 
 done by them in the matter, and again desire them to 
 compel the said Adam to deliver the said five quarters of 
 corn, and to compensate the said William for any loss sustained 
 by him, that there might be no occasion to write a third 
 time, nor for annoying their folk repairing to London. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 12th September, s.a. Fretick. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs of 
 
 * Erected by Peter, the chaplain of Colechurch, who planned the rebuilding 
 of the bridge in 1163, and was buried in the crypt of the chapel. It was after- 
 wards used as a warehouse, and eventually pulled down in 1760. An inventory of 
 articles in the chapel delivered to the wardens in the year 1350 by the out- 
 going wardens is to be found in the City Records, Letter Book F, fol. 196, 
 printed in Riley's ' Memorials of London,' p. 263. 
 
 t St. Mary, Aldermary. 
 
 X Perhaps No. 150, infra. 
 
67 
 
 Oxford for the recovery of Stephen, son of Roger Wode- 
 rove, of " Wyderyngsete " (Withernsea ?), in the county of 
 Norfolk, apprentice to Peter de Pary, girdler. Latin. 
 
 144. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to their well - beloved liege lord Edward [III.], King of 
 England, &c. 
 
 Sending him five hundred archers, horse and foot, with 
 Thomas Rose, captain, and his five companions, to assist him 
 in his war,* their wages having been paid for a term of forty 
 days, commencing the 3rd day of October. God Almighty 
 give him grace to reign long and to have victory over his 
 enemies. 
 
 London, 3rd October, s.a. French. 
 
 145. [The same to * * * * *] 
 
 Heartily thanking him for honours and bounties already 
 conferred upon them, and as they hope still to be continued. 
 Might it please his lordship to know that they had sent 
 five hundred archers, horse and foot, with Thomas Rose, 
 captain, and his five companions, to assist the King in his 
 war, and desiring his lordship, in whom they had the greatest 
 confidence, to favour the said archers that they might have a 
 suitable post assigned to them near the King's person. God 
 Almighty have him in his keeping, body and soul. 
 
 London, 3rd October, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of similar letters having been sent to the Earl of Northamp- 
 ton, the Earl of March, the Earl of Stafford, Sir John Gray, 
 steward of the King's household, and to Sir Peter Daudelee. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 * With France. A memorandum of twenty men-at-arms as well as five 
 hundred archers having been sent at this time by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Com- 
 monalty of the City of London to assist the King in his war with France, with their 
 wages paid for forty days, is also to be found in the City Records, Letter Book G, 
 folio 36 b, " quorum nomina et totus processus inde factus plenius patet in rotulis 
 in baga Thome Leggy existentibus dicto anno xxix"", ftc." 
 
 F 2 
 
68 
 
 146, The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 
 and Bailiffs of the Town of Cauntebrigge (Cambridge). 
 
 Informing them that whereas Thomas Gray, burgess of 
 " Cauntebrigge," was prosecuting one Robert Buchier, of 
 " Badberham " (Babraham, co. Cambridge), for a tun of wine 
 supposed to have been received by him from Thomas Blundel, 
 of London, attorney of the said Thomas Gray, to carry to the 
 house of the said Thomas Gray at " Cauntebrigge," which 
 had perished through the negligence of the said Robert : it had 
 been proved, on the evidence of the said Thomas Blundel and 
 of one John Paket, who, with him, lets out carts for hire for 
 carrying divers goods, that it was not a tun of wine which the 
 said Robert had received from him, but only a pipe of wine, 
 and that this had been safely delivered. Ask them to 
 give credence to this testimony that the said Robert be not 
 aggrieved nor impeached contrary to law and reason. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 26th September, s.a. French. 
 
 Temp. THOMAS LEGGY, MAYOR [a.d. 1354—5], continued. 
 
 147. Thomas Leggy, Mayor, the Aldermen, and Good Folk of the 
 
 City of London to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of 
 the City of Wyncestre (Winchester). 
 
 Certifying that Thomas de Thornecombe, of the county of 
 Southampton, had granted to Philip Moundeville, merchant, 
 citizen of London, an annual rent of 20/. sterling, issuing from 
 all his lands and tenements in " Comptone," " Wyncestre 
 soke," and " Crundale " in the aforesaid county, and " La 
 Chaumbre," in the county of Surrey, as by his deed sealed 
 with his seal had appeared, which deed they are asked to 
 accept as good and genuine, and to testify the same to others 
 for love's sake. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, nth December, j.«. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of the 
 above letter. Latin. 
 
69 
 
 148. Thomas Leggy, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Oxenford (Oxford). 
 
 Desiring them to cause John Norhamtone, common clerk* 
 of the'^Guildhall of the town of Oxford, Nicholas Trewelove, 
 fishmonger and burgess of the same, and Walter Ferby, 
 burgess of the same, to pay to John de Gonewardeby, 
 " grosser "\ and citizen of London, or to his attorney, the 
 bearer of these letters, certain sums of money which they 
 respectively owe to him, in such manner as they would wish 
 their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The Lord 
 have them in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French, 
 
 149. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Salesbury 
 (Salisbury). 
 
 Notifying that John Abraham, John Bartelot, and Walter 
 Salmon, girdlers and citizens of London, had been chosen by 
 the good folk of the craftf within the City of London to 
 rule and survey the said craft, that it be well and properly 
 preserved in all points, to the common profit of the people in 
 all cities, towns, and boroughs throughout England, as in the 
 charter? of the lord the King more plainly is contained. 
 Desire them, therefore, to assist the aforesaid persons in ruling 
 the said craft in their town and in reforming abuses, as they 
 themselves would wish their folk to be treated in matters 
 touching their own interest. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 20th March, s.a. French. 
 
 * The Town Clerk of the City of London was formerly known by this desig- 
 nation. 
 
 t Wholesale dealer, chiefly in spices and drugs, whence the modem term 
 " grocer." 
 
 X Mesfer, art, trade, or craft ; Latin mestera, connected with ministerium, 
 and not to be confounded with mysterium {iiva-Trjpiov), a " mystery." 
 
 § Dated loth March, i Edward IIL 
 
70 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs of 
 Leycester, on behalf of John Godmerede, " peyntour,"* for the 
 recovery of Geoffrey Dorre, his apprentice, dated 9th April. 
 
 Also of a similar letter to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Oxford, on 
 
 behalf of Peter de Parys, girdler, for the recovery of Roger 
 
 Woderove,t of the county of Norfolk, his apprentice, dated 
 
 26th December. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 150. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Bar tone ( Barton - 
 on-Humber). 
 
 On the same subject as No. 143, supra, and probably the 
 letter therein referred to. 
 
 Dated the last day of August, s.a. French. 
 
 151. Letters patent of Thomas Leggy, Mayor, and the Aldermen of 
 
 the City of London. 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that John de 
 
 Mydford, tailor, is a citizen of London, and desiring all 
 
 persons to let him pass with his merchandise quit of all 
 
 manner of custom, according to the franchise of the said City. 
 
 London, 13th April, 29 Edward III. (A.D. 1355). French. 
 
 A note of similar letters having been sent on behalf of William 
 Worthingpol, dated 15th September, 29 (Edward IIL A.D. 
 
 1355). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 152. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 
 London to the most noble and honoured Lord the Count 
 of Flanders. 
 
 Desiring that it might please his lordship to charge his 
 
 * Painter-stainer. 
 
 t Stephen, son of Roger Woderove, in Letter No. 143, supra. 
 
71 
 
 Receiver and other wise members of his council to assist John 
 Salman to recover the value of certain bonds assigned to him 
 in satisfaction of a debt due to him by John Malewayn, citizen 
 of London, which the latter had himself received from John 
 de Isendyk, of " Neuport " in Flanders, who had publicly 
 acknowledged his debt to the said John Salman, and had 
 since died. Should his lordship desire anything on his part, 
 he is to let his pleasure be known. 
 
 London, 19th April, s.a. French. 
 
 153. The same to the noble and wise Receiver of Flanders, on the 
 
 same subject. 
 
 Dated London, 19th April, s.a. French. 
 
 154. Letters patent of the same, under the Common Seal, on the 
 
 same subject. 
 
 Dated London, 19th April, s.a. French. 
 
 155. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Lesclus 
 
 (Sluys). 
 
 Certifying that a "hakebot,"* Arnaud Stalyn master, 
 which had been freighted with wine at " Dam," in Flanders, 
 by Bernard Payn, burgess of " Burdeux," for the ' port of 
 London, had duly arrived, and that the said Arnaud had been 
 paid the freight stipulated upon. Pray, therefore, that the 
 goods and chattels of the said Bernard, which had, it was 
 understood, been seized by them at the suit of the said 
 Ai-naud, for payment of the same, may be given up, and any- 
 thing which the said Arnaud may have got possession of 
 be restored, in such manner as they would wish their folk to 
 be treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have them 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 2nd April, s.a. French. 
 
 * Letter No. 54, supra, note. 
 
72 
 
 Temp. THOMAS LEGGY, MAYOR [A.D. 1354—5], continued. 
 
 156. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 to the Burgomasters, Echevins, and Good Folk of the Town 
 of Lesclus (Sluys), in Flanders.* 
 
 Had heard that one John atte More, a burgess of Bruges, 
 had brought a vexatious suit against one William atte Castel, 
 on the charge of having imported and sold in Flanders three 
 " sarplers " of feathers, claimed by the said John as his pro- 
 perty. They are informed that many trustworthy citizens of 
 London had testified that the said William had bought the 
 said feathers in the City of London, and that they were his 
 own proper chattel ; to which testimony they are asked to 
 give credence, so that the said William be not by malice 
 wrongfully impeached, nor be aggrieved contrary to law and 
 reason. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 29th September, s.a. French. 
 
 Here follow names of witnesses to the contents of the 
 above letter. Latin. 
 
 157. Letters of protection of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty 
 of the City of London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 In favour of Roger de Swafham and John de Welton, 
 friars of the Mendicant Order of the Holy Cross,t who were 
 about to travel abroad on business connected with their 
 house established within the said City. 
 
 London, 22nd September, A.D. 1355. Latin. 
 
 * A marginal note states that this letter was sealed with the seal of the 
 Mayoralty. 
 
 t Crouched (now Crutched) Friars : their house was in Hart Street, Aldgate. 
 These letters were granted apparently notwithstanding the King's writ, dated 
 15th September, anno 29 Edward III. (a.d. 1355), and sent to the Sheriffs of 
 London, that no vessel, great or small, nor any man, of whatsoever state or con- 
 dition he be, should leave the port of London for foreign parts before the Feast 
 of St. Michael next ensuing without the King's licence. This writ is recorded as 
 having been proclaimed on Tuesday, the morrow of the Exaltation of the Holy 
 Cross (14th September), in the same year, and as remaining in the possession of 
 William de Tudenham, Sheriff. City Records, Letter Book G, fol. 37 6. 
 
73 
 
 158. The Mayor, Aldermen, and the whole Commonalty of the City 
 
 of London to the honoured and religious Abbot* of Petres- 
 burgh (Peterborough). 
 
 Certifying that Robert de Seint Johan, " pelter,"t late 
 citizen of London, had devised by will to his daughters 
 Cristine and Rose goods and chattels to the value of lOO/. 
 sterling or more for marriage portions, and had appointed 
 Anable, his wife and executrix, and Robert de Lincoln her 
 co-executor, to be guardians of the same respectively ; that 
 upon the decease of the said Robert, the said Anable had 
 become guardian also of the said Rose as next friend ; that 
 the said Anable had subsequently married one Thomas de 
 Stanford, who had taken possession of the said goods and 
 chattels within the lordship of the Abbey. Had heard that, 
 owing to the said Thomas having been prosecuted for the 
 death of his wife, who had died suddenly, the aforesaid 
 property had become escheated into the hands of the Abbot, 
 and therefore especially pray him to charitably give up the 
 same to the said Cristine and Rose, or their attorney, the 
 bearer of these letters. Should he desire anything on his 
 part, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Temp. SIMON FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR [a.d. 13SS— 6]. 
 
 159, The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Bartone on Hombre (Barton-on-Humber). 
 
 On the same subject as Nos. 143 and 150, supra. Express 
 surprise that nothing had been done by them in the matter 
 referred to in previous letters, and threaten to take " wyther- 
 name "| of the goods and merchandise of their folk repairing 
 to the City of London. 
 
 London, 21st December, \f.«. French. 
 
 * Robert Ramsey, Abbot A.D. 1353— 1361. 
 
 t A skinner or pelterer : so called from his dressing pelts or skins with the 
 
 wool on. 
 
 X Vide Letter No. 46, supra, note *. 
 
74 
 
 160. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 
 and Bailiffs of the Town of Sandewicz (Sandwich). 
 
 William le Chapeleyn [of] Richard Whit, burgess of their 
 town, was understood to be indebted to Simon de Lincoln, 
 citizen of London, in the sum of 39J. 2d., for which he had 
 been arrested by them at the suit of the said Simon. Pray 
 them to assist the said Simon in the recovery of his debt 
 according to law and reason. Should they desire anything 
 on their part, they (the writers) would be found ready to do 
 what they could. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 30th December, s.a. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses, and a note of a letter 
 having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Lincoln for the 
 recovery of John, son of Margery, wife of William Leante, 
 apprentice of Thomas de Honifeld, baker, dated 23rd February. 
 
 Latin, 
 
 161. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of SutJiamtone 
 
 (Southampton). 
 
 Requesting them to restore to John de Hatfeld, who is 
 certified to be a citizen of London, the goods which they had 
 seized for payment of " murage,"* which they had illegally 
 demanded of him, inasmuch as both he and all who are of 
 the franchise of the said City are and ought to be quitf of 
 murage and of all manner of custom throughout the King's 
 dominion. 
 
 London, i6th December, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of similar letters having been sent to the Bailiffs of 
 TJwrkeseye (Torksey, co. Lincoln), on behalf of Thomas de 
 Brandon, dated 6th January; to the Bailiffs of Colcestre (Col- 
 
 * A toll taken of carts and horses coming laden through a town, for building 
 and repairing the walls thereof. 
 
 + By charter 26 Edward I. Vide ' Liber Albus ' (Master of the Rolls Series), 
 p. 141, and Bohun's ' Privilegia Londini,' p. 11. 
 
75 
 
 Chester), on behalf of John Underwode, junior, dated 15th 
 May ; and to the Mayor and^Bailiffs^of Douvere (Dover), on 
 behalf of William de Raughtone, dated 22nd January. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 162. The same to the Burgomasters, Echevins, and Commonalty of 
 
 the Town of Bruges^ in Flanders. 
 
 Certifying that, whereas it was understood that they had 
 declined to pay to Katherine, the wife of John de Cranburgh, 
 citizen of London, the sum of money stipulated for pulling 
 down all the houses belonging to the said John in " Welle- 
 stret," in their town, for the purpose of enlarging the street, 
 without the assent of her said husband being first obtained, 
 the said John had publicly expressed his desire that the 
 money should be paid to his wife, whose action in the matter 
 he would uphold. To this testimony they are asked to 
 give credence for love's sake. The Lord have them in 
 his keeping. 
 
 London, 9th April, s.a. French. 
 
 163. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Seint 
 
 Botulf (Boston, co. Lincoln). 
 
 Certifying that on Saturday next before the Feast of 
 St. Dunstan (19th May), in the thirtieth year of the reign 
 of King Edward III. (A.D. 1356), a ship called " la Maline" of 
 " Saltflethavene " (co. Lincoln), Robert Gonald master, laden 
 with sixty quarters of corn, had arrived at Billingsgate, and 
 been there discharged. 
 
 London, 21st May, s.a. Fremh. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of the 
 above letter, Latin. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the same, certifying 
 that a ship called " la Blithe de Newelond de Eyre," laden 
 with eighty quarters of malt, John Warde "de Newelond 
 
76 
 
 de Eyre" master, had arrived at Billingsgate on the iSth 
 May, dated 24th May. 
 Also of a letter sent to the Bailiffs of Aymer de St. Edmund,* 
 Lord of Ildeslee (Ilsley, co. Berks), concerning goods of 
 Roger de Depham seized for toll, dated 25th May. 
 
 Latin, 
 
 164. Letter of attorney from Adam de Shadewell, goldsmith, to 
 
 William le Clerk, citizen of Waterford, to recover Robert 
 Perler, his apprentice, wheresoever he may be found in Ire- 
 land. Sealed with the seal of the Mayoralty of London, his 
 own seal being to many unknown. 
 
 London, 26th May, 30 Edward IIL (a.d. 1356). Latin. 
 
 165. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Oxenford 
 (Oxford). 
 
 Desiring them to cause William atte Shute, burgess of 
 their town, to pay to John de Stodeye, citizen of London, the 
 sum of forty marks due for merchandise, as by his letter 
 obligatory sealed with his seal verily appears, of which sum 
 not a single penny had as yet been paid. Should they 
 desire anything on their part, they (the writers) would be 
 found ready to do what they could. The Lord have them in 
 his keeping. 
 
 9th July, 5.a, French. 
 
 Temp. SIMON FRAUNCEYS, MAYOR,"«««^ 30 [Edward III. 
 A.D. 1355 — 6\, continued. 
 
 166. [The same] to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the City 
 
 of Develyn (Dublin), in Ireland. 
 
 Had heard from Ralph de Stanesfeld, citizen of London, 
 of their intention to seize his merchandise in their country in 
 
 * Aymer de St. Amand, son of John de St. Amand, much engaged in the wars 
 of King Edward III. both in Scotland and France. 
 
77 
 
 retaliation for tonnage dues* which were paid by their mer- 
 chants in London. They are to know that by writ of the King 
 Edward III,, sent by William Foil, citizen of Dublin, and 
 enrolled in the Remembrancesf of the City of London, which 
 are of record, the merchants of their city had been allowed to 
 pass and repass quit of " murage,"J " pavage,"§ " pontage,"l| and 
 " kayage "^ only ; but there was no record exempting them 
 from tonnage, which formed part of the ferm due to the King 
 from the said City of London. If, however, they could show 
 any charter or deed discharging them from such payment, 
 they should be treated according to law and reason ; 
 in the mean time they are desired not to molest the said 
 Ralph. 
 
 London, 14th July, s.a. French. 
 
 167. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs oi Nouel chastel (Newcastle) 
 on Tyne. ^ 
 
 Desiring them to restore to Henry de Burton, vintner, who 
 is certified to be a citizen of London, the goods which they 
 had seized for payment of custom, inasmuch as both he and 
 all who are of the franchise of the said City are and ought 
 to be quit of all manner of custom throughout the King's 
 dominion. 
 
 London, 9th November, s.a. French. 
 
 * A duty, first granted by Parliament to King Edward III., upon all wines 
 imported, over and above "prisage" and "butlerage." 
 
 t City Records, Letter Book F, fol. 31 b, dated ist May, 14 Edward III. 
 (A.D. 1340). 
 
 X Vide Letter No. 161, supra, note *. 
 
 § Money paid towards the paving of streets or highways, 
 
 II A toll taken from passengers towards the maintenance of bridges. It was 
 accounted one of the three public charges {Trinoda ttecessitas) on the nation, from 
 which no person was exempted. In this case it must refer to London Bridge 
 more especially. 
 
 IT Toll money paid for loading or unloading goods at a "key" (quay) or 
 wharf. 
 
78 
 
 Temp. HENRY PYCARD* MAYOR, anno 31 [Edward III. 
 A.D. 1356—7]. 
 
 168. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of Bruges, in 
 Flanders. 
 
 Certifying that whereas Giles Vanecloistre, of Flanders, 
 had brought a vexatious suit against John de Gestele, 
 " osteler "\ of their town, and " oste " to William de Lecches- 
 feld, late servant of John Bret, citizen of London, for 3 livres 
 7 shillings "gross,"J for coverchiefs alleged to have been pur- 
 chased by the said William of the said Giles four years since, it 
 had been ascertained on trustworthy evidence that the said 
 William had bought no coverchiefs nor other goods from 
 the said Giles, nor was in any way indebted to him. To this 
 testimony they are asked to give credence for love's sake, 
 that the said John be not unreasonably aggrieved by cause 
 aforesaid. 
 
 London, 17th January, s.a. French. 
 
 A note of letters having been sent to the same on behalf of Adam 
 Brabasoun, fishmonger, suing for 400/. due on a bond from 
 Giles atte Gardin, dated 5 th February ; to the Bailiffs, &c., of 
 the Town of Leitoft (Lowestoft), certifying that Geoffrey 
 Fisshere, of Greenwich, had arrived in London with a ship 
 called " Seint Jonesbot," laden with 200 quarters of corn, 
 dated 6th March ; and to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Lenne 
 (Lynn), on behalf of John Rys de Beverlee, concerning 200 
 
 * A merchant vintner of Gascony. Entertained the King of France (taken 
 prisoner at the battle of Poitiers and carried to England), together with the Kings 
 of England, Scotland, Denmark, and Cyprus, with great magnificence at his house 
 in the Vintry, near St. Martin's Church, and after dinner " kept his Hall for all 
 Comers that were willing to play at Dice and Hazard." Strype's Stow's ' Survey 
 Book,' i. p. 261. 
 
 t Hosteler or innkeeper. 
 
 X Vide Letter No. 60, sttpra, note. 
 
79 
 
 quarters of corn on board a ship called " Hardebolle," to 
 be discharged at Calais, dated 6th March. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 169. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Seint Aubati (St. Albans). 
 
 Desiring that they release as soon as possible one John 
 Else, who at their suit had been imprisoned in the gaol 
 of the Abbot of " Saint Auban," contrary to all the franchises 
 of England, notwithstanding their claim to be exempt 
 from the force of any writ of attaint, by charter of 
 the King's progenitors alleged to have been granted to 
 their town : inasmuch as it had been found that the said 
 John had his action against them for illegal imprisonment, 
 to their great damage and " vilenye." Let them perform this 
 request, lest greater damage or " vilenye " come upon them 
 by reason aforesaid, and certify by bearer of these letters 
 their pleasure for love's sake. 
 
 London, 3rd May, s.a. French. 
 
 170. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Bruges, in Flanders. 
 
 Desiring them to deliver to John Vannamen, burgess of 
 their town, or his attorney the bearer, the value of twenty- 
 four pieces of tin lately seized by them, belonging to 
 Nicholas Thomasyn, citizen of London, as the said Nicholas 
 had acknowledged that he was indebted to the said John 
 for divers merchandise lately bought. The Lord have them 
 ever in his keeping, 
 
 London, 5 th June, sm.. French. 
 
 171. The same to the Captain, Treasurer, and Bailiffs of the 
 
 Town of Caleys (Calais). 
 
 Desiring them to compel "Huwe" de Hulle, who is 
 living in their town, to pay Thomas atte Barnet, mason, 
 the sum of 35/. \os. for disbursements made on his behalf 
 
8o 
 
 to the executors of " Maute," late wife of Austyn Waleys, 
 and to one Ralph de Mordone ; and also the further 
 sum of 3/. OS. i-jd. in which the said "Huwe" stands 
 bound to him, as by a bond sealed with his seal truly 
 appears. 
 
 London, 24th July, 31 (Edward III. A.D. 1357). French, 
 
 172. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the City of 
 
 Norwych. 
 
 Certifying that whereas John de Hales, late citizen of 
 Norwich, had been bound by a statute merchant to John 
 de Caustone the elder, late citizen of London, in 100 marks, 
 whereof the executors of the said John de Hales had paid 
 20 marks, and for the remaining 80 marks the executors 
 of the said John de Caustone had made an extent on the 
 lands and tenements belonging to the said John de Hales 
 in the county of Norfolk, which they had leased and granted 
 to Edmund Lentee, citizen of Norwich, to hold to him, 
 his heirs and assigns, until the said 80 marks, according 
 to the form of the extent aforesaid, should be fully levied ; 
 and that whereas the executors of the said John de Hales 
 allege that they had received an acquittance for 33 livres 
 of that sum, it had been proved on trustworthy evidence 
 that no such acquittance had ever been given by the executors 
 of the said John de Caustone, nor had they received one 
 penny of the 80 marks aforesaid. To this testimony they 
 are asked to give credence for love's sake ; and should they 
 desire anything on their part, they (the writers) would be 
 found ready to do what they could. 
 
 London, 8th May, 32 Edward HI. (A.D. 1358). French. 
 
 173. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Wynchelse 
 
 (Winchelsea). 
 
 Desiring them to cause John Spicer, burgess of their 
 town, to pay to Adam Stable, mercer and citizen of London, 
 the sum of 30/. sterling, which he is found on good evidence 
 
8i 
 
 to owe for merchandise purchased. The Lord have them ever 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, i8th November, 33 Edward IIL (A.D. 1359). 
 
 French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of 
 the above letter. Latin, 
 
 174. The same to the same. 
 
 John Gyles, of " Axle,"* in Flanders, had complained that 
 whereas he and one John Bridport, citizen of London, were 
 joint owners of a ship called " Hardebolle " of " Axle," he 
 himself being master, the said ship had been laden by the 
 said John Bridport with " busch " for London ; and a dispute 
 having arisen at " la Rye " between him and Roger, the 
 servant of the said John Bridport, he had left the ship and 
 had proceeded by land to London. The said Roger had 
 thereupon maliciously reported that the said John Gyles 
 had there sold to him his share of the ship, on which sale 
 the Mayor and Bailiffs of Winchelsea had claimed the said 
 share as forfeit to the King, to the great loss of the said 
 John Gyles and John Bridport. Certify that the said John 
 Gyles had sold his share of the vessel at London on the 8th 
 day of April last past, paying the custom due upon the said 
 sale. Desire them to give credence to this testimony for 
 love's sake and to cause satisfaction to be made to the said 
 John Gyles and John Bridport for the trespass aforesaid. 
 Should they desire anything on their part, they (the writers) 
 would be found ready. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 175. The same to the Burgomaster of the City of Basil.] 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that Gunrard 
 called " Isenli," citizen of Basil, had arrived in the City of 
 
 * Axel. 
 
 t Basle, a town on the Rhine. 
 
82 
 
 London on Monday next after the Feast of SS. Peter and 
 Paul (29th June), A.D. 1358, and had there continued to live 
 in honest company up to the 8th day of November following. 
 Wish him farewell in the name of Him by whom kings reign 
 and princes have dominion. 
 
 London, 8th October, the year aforesaid. Latin. 
 
 A note of letters having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs 
 of Sandwich for the goods of Henry de Rokeby there seized 
 for custom, dated i6th February; and to Sir John de Goldyng- 
 ham, Knt, residing at "Wyltyngge," in Sussex, for the 
 recovery of John, son of William Sadelere, apprentice of 
 John Doxenforde, " upheldere,"* dated i6th January. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 176. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of DertemotUh 
 (Dartmouth). 
 
 Praying their favour towards John Pokard, the bearer, who 
 had been proved to be the attorney of Peter Scotelare, burgess 
 of the town of Bruges, in Flanders, inasmuch as the said Peter 
 had always assisted English folk negotiating business in 
 Bruges or elsewhere in Flanders. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 20th July, 33 Edward (HI. A.D. 13S9). French. 
 
 Yll. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Sandwytz 
 
 (Sandwich). 
 
 Desiring them to detain a ship laden with merchandise 
 
 belonging to Adam de Faveresham, who had died indebted 
 
 to John de Hatfeld, citizen of London, in the sum of 13/. 
 
 sterling, for goods lately purchased in the said City, until 
 
 satisfaction be done to the said John ; in such manner as 
 
 they would wish their folk to be treated in like case or 
 
 weightier. The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, i6th August, 32 Edward III. (A.D. 1358). 
 
 French, 
 * Upholsterer. 
 
83 
 
 178. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London. 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that it 
 had been proved that John Rackele had taken his corporal 
 oath upon the Holy Gospels, in the month of May in the 
 thirtieth year of the reign of King Edward III. (A.D. 1356), 
 in the house of John Barbour in "la Tourstrete," that 
 he would serve Robert Bury, Rector of the church of 
 " Burghershe " (Burwash), in the diocese of Chichester, as 
 the proctor and bailiff of the said church for one whole year. 
 
 Dated 27th * Latin. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs 
 of the Town of Cambridge in respect of goods of Robert 
 Russe, Robert Rose, and Robert Werde there seized. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 179. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 
 and Bailiffs of the Town of Redyng (Reading). 
 
 Certifying that two horses, one grey, aged three years, and 
 
 the other black, aged four years, which had been seized in the 
 
 possession of John Fyrkyn, on suspicion that they had been 
 
 stolen, had been let for hire to him by John Stoke, " hakeney- 
 
 man " and citizen of London, and praying that they may be 
 
 given up to the said John Stoke or his attorney, the bearer, 
 
 for love's sake, in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 
 to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 ■ No date. French. 
 
 180. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Bruges, in Flanders. 
 
 Desiring them to cause their fellow burgess Giles atte 
 Gardin to pay to Adam Brabison, fishmonger and citizen of 
 London, the sum of 400/. sterling, which he owes. Should 
 they desire anything on their part, they (the writers) would 
 
 * Month and year omitted in the manuscript. 
 
 G 2 
 
84 
 
 be found ready to do what they could. The Lord have them 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 5th February, s.a. French. 
 
 181. The same to the Mayor and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Brussels. 
 
 Testifying that John de Stenf — t (?), who was reported 
 to have died, was alive and well. Ask them to give credence 
 to this testimony for love's sake. Should they desire any- 
 thing on their part, they (the writers) would be found ready 
 to do what they could. The Holy Spirit ever keep them. 
 London, ... November, A.D. 1357. French. 
 
 A note of letters having been sent to the Bailiffs and Good Folk 
 of the Town of Thetforde (co. Norfolk), for the goods of 
 John Thomas, seized for custom ; and to the Bailiffs and 
 Good Folk of the Town of Dunstapele (Dunstable), for the 
 goods of Thomas Martin. Latiti. 
 
 182. The same to the Bailiffs of the City of Canterburs (Canter- 
 
 bury). 
 
 Desiring them to cause John Seint Albon, "pynnere,"* 
 residing in their city, to pay to Walter Wyrdrawere, citizen of 
 London, the sum of 4IJ. sterling, which he owes for divers 
 merchandise. 
 
 19th July, 32 (Edward IIL A.D. 1358). French. 
 
 183. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Melnyng in Sprucia (Prussia). 
 
 Certifying that the ship called the " Cristofre de Lubyk " 
 (Lubeck), a certain " Claus" Helmast, of " Lubyk," being 
 master, which Henry Penshurste, the agent of John Salman 
 and of Fulk de Horwode, citizens of London, had freighted 
 with merchandise for London, and for the delivery of which 
 Tydeman Wagendorp, burgess of their town, had become 
 • Pinmaker. 
 
85 
 
 bail, had duly arrived in London on Tuesday next before 
 the Feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist (24th June), 
 A.D. 1358, and her cargo had been there discharged. Desire 
 them to give credence to this notification, and to release 
 the said Tydeman from his bail. God, who maintains and 
 governs all things, preserve them. 
 
 London, 28th June, the year aforesaid. Latin. 
 
 184. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Wynchehe (Win- 
 
 chelsea). 
 
 Whereas John Rose, master of a ship of " Lesclus " (Sluys), 
 had lately set sail thither with his ship, laden with " bilet,"* 
 but had been obliged to return owing to some suspicious 
 persons whom he mistrusted, they are desired to assist him 
 to prosecute his voyage without incurring loss and annoyance. 
 Should they desire anything, &c. 
 
 London, 2nd July, 32 (Edward III. A.D. 1358). French. 
 
 185. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Great 
 
 Jernemoiith (Yarmouth). 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that it had 
 been proved on oath that when the ship called " la Goode 
 Tyme " from " Jernemouth," William Wayneflet master, 
 arrived in the port of London on the ist day of July last past, 
 with divers merchandise, it fell out that on the evening of the 
 3rd day of the same month, when the master and his com- 
 panions were asleep on board, John de Roughton, a seaman, 
 went overboard into the Thames alone for a bath, and was 
 drowned, departing this life for eternal light, please God ; to 
 which testimony they are asked to give credence for love's 
 sake. The Lord, &c. 
 
 London, the 6th day of the same month. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of the 
 above. Latin. 
 
 * Timber. 
 
86 
 
 186. Letters patent of John Lovekyn, the Mayor, and Aldermen of 
 the City of London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Desiring all persons to cause Thomas Lyndelowe, 
 merchant of " Beverle " (co. York), John Bole, Dean* of the 
 Curriers of Bruges, in Flanders, and Gyselyn Grymlond, his 
 attorney, wheresoever they may be found, to satisfy Ralph de 
 Cauntebrigge, " phelipier,"f citizen of London, of a debt of 
 96/. sterling in which sum the said Thomas and Gyselyn 
 stood jointly and severally bound to him, in such manner as 
 they would themselves wish to be treated in like case or 
 weightier. 
 
 2nd September, 33 Edward IIL (13S9). French. 
 
 187. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Mayor 
 
 and Bailiffs of the Town of Oxenforde (Oxford). 
 
 Desiring them for love's sake to restore the goods and 
 chattels, to wit, a horse, half a sack of wool, and four nobles, 
 which they had taken from William Ware, suspecting him to 
 be a disloyal person, inasmuch as he had proved to be an 
 apprentice of John Englisshe, citizen of London, to whom the 
 said goods and chattels belong; in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The 
 Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 3rd October, 32 Edward III. (a.d. 1358). 
 
 French. 
 
 188. [The same] to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Bruges, in Flanders. 
 
 Desiring them for love's sake to assist Peter Scutelare, 
 John Dexemeuth, and others, attorneys of Jacob Vander- 
 
 * An ofScer of this name was not uncommon in English guilds, holding a 
 similar position to that of beadle; vide introduction by Miss Toulmin Smith to 
 ' Ordinances of English Gilds,' edited by her father (Early English Text Society), 
 p. xxxviii. On the other hand, it was the President of the Guild of Kalendars 
 who was often so designated ; vide introductory essay to the above by Dr. Lujo 
 Brentano, p. xc. 
 
 t Or fripperer. Vide Letter No. 72, supra, note J. 
 
8; 
 
 hallen, son of Peta- Vanderhallen, to obtain seisin of the 
 lands, tenements, rents, &c., which had descended to him on 
 the decease of his said father, in their town of Bruges as 
 well as in the seignory of " Strate " hard by, as is more 
 fully contained in a letter sealed with the seals of the 
 Mayoralty of the City of London and of the said Jacob ; in 
 such manner as they would wish a request of theirs to be 
 respected in like case or weightier. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 189. Letter of the above Jacob Vanderhallen, appointing the persons 
 
 named in the last letter to be his attorneys for obtaining 
 seisin of the said possessions. 
 
 Date illegible. Latin. 
 
 190. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of {Thome f) in 
 Sprucia (Prussia). 
 
 Certifying that a ship called " (Godos) Knygth," Nicholas 
 Stottesburgh master, bound for the port of London, and for 
 the safe arrival of which John de Hatfeld, of Thome, had 
 given security, had duly arrived and her cargo had been 
 there discharged. 
 
 London (date illegible). Latin. 
 
 191. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of Bruges, in 
 
 Flanders. 
 
 Certifying that Agatha, the widow of Geffrey de "Wan- 
 tynche" (Wantage), late burgess of their town, had satisfied 
 Peter Broun and John Broun, of " Wantynche," brothers and 
 heirs of the deceased, of their reasonable* part of the goods 
 
 * The power of disposing of property after death in the earliest times was 
 permitted in some countries and denied in others. In England it is coeval with 
 the first rudiments of law, but it did not extend originally to all a man's personal 
 estate. By the common law a man's goods were to be divided into three equal 
 parts, of which one went to his heirs or lineal descendants, another to his wife, 
 and the third was at his own disposal. The shares of the wife and children were 
 
88 
 
 and chattels of the same, for which they had given her a 
 release. To this testimony they are asked to give credence 
 for love's sake. 
 
 London, 28th June {circa A.D. 1357). French. 
 
 192. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 
 of Peveneseye (co. Sussex). 
 
 Desiring them for love's sake to give up the goods and 
 chattels of William Rolf, " shipman," lately drowned at sea, 
 to Alice, the bearer of these letters, who is certified to have 
 been his wife ; in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 to be treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have them 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 20th September, 33 Edward IIL (A.D. 1359). 
 
 French. 
 
 193. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Wynchelse 
 
 (Winchelsea). 
 
 Acknowledging the receipt of their letters wherein they 
 had desired that Adam de Shipstede, citizen of London, 
 should be made to pay John Fynch, Henry Fynch, and Simon 
 Salerne, burgesses of their town, the sum of 60/. sterling 
 wrongfully detained by him, and also the sum of 30/. which 
 he owed Robert Baddyng, burgess of the sarne, for wine ; and 
 certifying that the said Robert had made no demand against 
 the said Adam ; that, moreover, the said Adam had nothing 
 within the City of London whereon to distrain, as they would 
 learn more fully from the said Henry Fynch by word of 
 mouth ; and, further, that 23/. out of the above sum of 60/. 
 had been already paid by the said Adam. To this testimony 
 they are asked to give credence for love's sake. 
 
 London, 4th July, 33 (Edward HI. A.D. 1359). 
 
 French. 
 
 called their reasonable parts. This ancient method continued in the City of London 
 till abolished by Act of Parliament, 1 1 Geo. I. c. 1 8. Kerr's ' Blackstone's Comment.,' 
 vol. ii, pp. 443-4- 
 
89 
 
 194. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Bruges, in Flanders. 
 
 Testifying that John de Colkyrke, late burgess of Bruges, 
 and Elizabeth his wife had confirmed by deed to John 
 Cornbitere, burgess of the same, a portion of certain houses 
 situate near the gate of " la Heghestret " in their town, for- 
 merly belonging to his father ; to which testimony they are 
 asked to give credence for love's sake. The Lord have them 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 13th July, A.D. 1357. French. 
 
 195. The same to the Echevins and Council of the Town ol Berflete, 
 
 in Flanders. 
 
 Desiring them to cause Richard de Berflete to pay 
 William Cook of Berkhampsted (?), citizen of London, the sum 
 of 6&1. i8j. sterling in which he was jointly and severally 
 bound with Thomas Eklow, residing in their town in (sic) 
 "Eklow" (Ecloo) ; in such manner as they would wish their 
 folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have 
 them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 19th July, A.D. 1357. Fre:yich. 
 
 196. The same to the much honoured Father in God (William de 
 
 Edindon) Bishop of Winchester and Chancellor of the Lord 
 the King.* 
 
 Certifying that on Sunday next after the Feast of St. 
 Valentine (14th February) last past, John Lokhom, of the 
 town of " Mieth" (Meath) in Ireland, residing in the town of 
 "Lymeryk," had come to Billingsgate in London, and, 
 
 * The same who is addressed in Letter No. 11, supra, as the King's Treasurer, 
 and who is mentioned by early chroniclers as having then conceived and executed 
 the idea of coining groats and half-groats less in weight than their equivalent sum 
 sterling. This occasioned a great rise in the price of provisions throughout 
 England, and led to much cheating and disaffection among the working class, 
 to counteract which statutes as to the wages of labourers were passed in the 28th 
 and 35th years of Edward III., but, adds Walsingham, with little or no profit to 
 the common people. Vide Walsingham's ' Hist. Angl.,' pp. 275-6 ; Stow's ' Annales,' 
 ed. 1592, p. 387. 
 
90 
 
 entering the house of Richard atte More, had robbed him of 
 goods and chattels in gold and silver to the value of 140/. ; 
 to which testimony he is asked to give credence. The Holy 
 Spirit have him in his keeping. 
 
 London, 5th June, 31 Edward III. (a.d. 1357). French. 
 
 197. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Bruges. 
 
 Desiring them for love's sake to request the lord of 
 Lyghterfeld, their fellow burgess, to cause his tenant, John 
 Mighelsone, to satisfy Roger de Glendon, citizen of London, 
 of his debt of 1 20 crowns Flemish. The Lord, &c. 
 
 London, 20th April, s.a. French. 
 
 198. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Oxenforde 
 
 (Oxford). 
 
 Acknowledging the receipt of their letters asking for 
 information respecting certain customs of the City of London, 
 and certifying that at every Husting of Pleas of Land held in 
 the said City each alderman of the twenty-four wards, by his 
 beadle, returns a panel of twelve good men to attend the 
 same. And if it happen that parties plead by writ of right at 
 the inquest of twenty-three* in placef of the great assize 
 of the lord the King, at least twelve shall be of the ward in 
 which the tenements whereof inquest is to be had are situate, 
 and the remainder shall be of the three nearest wards. And 
 if they come not on the first day, they are fined at the discre- 
 tion of the Mayor and Aldermen, and the fines are levied 
 as part of the City's estate by the Sheriffs, who are then 
 ordered to distrain the parties against the next Husting, 
 to which if they come not by distress, heavier fines are 
 imposed and levied in like manner ; and each time they 
 make default they are fined and the fines levied as before, 
 
 * Mistake for twenty-four. 
 
 t "£■»&«." In ' Liber Albus ' (Master of the Rolls Series), vol. i. p. 183, 
 it is " en nature." 
 
91 
 
 unless they be put in issue. And if any by summons or 
 distress come into court and be there seen, and thence 
 depart without leave before a jury be made or he be called, 
 and refuse to answer or appear, he is then punished at the 
 discretion of the Mayor. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 199. [The same to the brothers of Geoffray de Wantynche,* late 
 
 burgess of Bruges.] 
 
 Informing them that Agatha, the widow of Geffray, their 
 brother, lately residing in the town of Bruges, had come to 
 London to deliver to them their share of the goods which her 
 late husband possessed at the time of his decease, and naming 
 a day for them to appear in London, either in person or by 
 their attorney, otherwise the property would be dealt with 
 according to Flemish law. 
 
 London, 23rd June, 31 Edward IIL (A.D. 1357). 
 
 French. 
 
 200. A public notification by the Mayor and Aldermen of the City 
 
 of London to all persons, as well beyond the sea as on this 
 side, that whereas Henry Welwes and John Penne, drapers of 
 the said City, were bound to Thomas de Notyngham, citizen 
 of London, in 50/. sterling, and were indebted to divers other 
 folk of the said City, the same had fled and had eloined their 
 goods and merchandise out of the said City. Call upon all 
 persons to seize both them and their goods wheresoever 
 they might be found, and to safeguard them in order that 
 the said Thomas might recover his debt; and to send 
 information as to the time of their arrest, and of the value 
 of the goods and merchandise so seized, in such manner 
 as they would themselves wish to be treated in like case or 
 weightier. 
 
 13th May, s.a. French. 
 
 * Vide Letter No. 191, supra. 
 
92 
 
 201. The same to the Governor, Bailiffs, and other Officers of the 
 Counte de Hanaud* (Hainault). 
 
 Testifying that it had been proved that when James de 
 Burbon, Count de la Marche and Pontyf.f lately purposed to 
 cross the sea to France, Gilbert Beauchamp, fishmonger, and 
 Roland Pulter, citizens of London, at the instance of John de 
 Camelyn, of "Compygne,"J at that time the Count's servant, 
 went to him and declared that he owed them 1,500 " vwtojis 
 dor,"^ which was corroborated by the said John de Camelyn, 
 whereupon the Count, believing their statement, promised 
 to pay them immediately on his return to England ; and, 
 further, that one Bartholomew Guidons,|| a changer in the 
 City of London, had stated that the same John de Camelyn 
 had deposited with him a hanap of silver weighing 12 marks, 
 together with 48 golden crowns, to keep until the return of 
 the said John to England. On the Count's return the afore- 
 said Gilbert and Roland had come to him and declared that 
 he was in no wise indebted to them ; likewise the said Bar- 
 tholomew had also come and restored to him the hanap and 
 the 48 crowns before mentioned, without any charge, declaring 
 that he had lent nothing thereon to the said John de Camelyn. 
 Desire them to give credence to this testimony, for the truth 
 
 * Qy- William the Mad, Count of Holland, Zealand, West Friesland, and 
 Hainault, called also Duke of Bavaria, who married Maud, the daughter of the 
 first Duke of Lancaster. Vide Letter No. 58, supra, note. 
 
 + Ponthieu. This county and the dignity of Constable were conferred upon 
 him by King John of France, to whom he was always faithfuL He was famous in 
 three battles : first, in that of Crecy, where he was wounded ; next, in that of 
 Poitiers, when he was taken prisoner ; and lastly at Brignais, near Lyons, where 
 he was utterly routed by a "company" of freebooters who were ravaging the 
 country, and he and his son Peter mortally wounded. This battle took place on 
 the 6th April, 1362. Vide note in Buchon's edition of Froissart, vol. i. p. 457. 
 
 X Compiegne. 
 
 § " Golden sheep ": gold coins so called from their having an impression of 
 John the Baptist on the one side, and of a lamb (Agnus Dei) on the other. 
 
 II To Bartholomew Guidonis de Castilon, merchant of London, and Adam de 
 Saint Ive of London, draper, was granted the monopoly of all exchanges of money 
 and of gold and silver plate throughout the kingdom, to hold for one whole year 
 from the Feast of St. Michael, anno 33 Edward I IL City Records, Letter Book G, 
 
 fol. 79 *• 
 
93 
 
 of which the aforesaid Gilbert and Roland and the said 
 Bartholomew had pledged their word. The Lord have them 
 ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 7th August, s.a. French. 
 
 202. Letters of John Lovekyn, Mayor, the Aldermen and Sheriffs of 
 the City of London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Publicly certifying that whereas some time ago, to wit, in 
 the thirty-third* year of the reign of King Edward III., a 
 certain Richard Maury, Abbot of the Monastery of " Medel- 
 ton,"f in the county of Dorset, when on his way to the Court of 
 Rome, had come to the City of London, and for a certain sum 
 of money to be received in Rome had exchanged 15/. sterling 
 with merchants of " Malebaile,"J whereof the said merchants 
 had declined to accept certain pieces, having divers marks 
 and figures thereon, to the value of 29J. 6d. : it so happened 
 that a servant of the aforesaid abbot, named Simon Ralee, 
 on Friday next after the Feast of St. Michael in the year 
 aforesaid, was buying a horse in the market of " Westsmethe- 
 feld," in the suburb of London, for 24?. 6d., which sum the 
 vendor received and with which he went away content. But 
 on the Saturday following one George Tyngewyk lodged a 
 public complaint in the King's Court held before the then 
 Mayor and Sheriffs of the said City against the said abbot, 
 charging him with being in possession of a quantity of base 
 
 * A mistake for the twenty-third year, when the abbot would probably be on 
 his way to Rome for the purpose of keeping the year of Jubilee, A.D. 1350. Vide 
 Letter No. 52, supra, note t- 
 
 t Middleton or Milton Abbots. 
 
 X Probably Florentine merchants, who excelled all others in the Arte del 
 Cambio. Cf. Letter No. 15, supra, where Antoin Mayllebayl is represented as 
 acting as money agent abroad for Andrew Aubrey, a citizen of London. The name 
 Malepilys or Malpiles, which seems akin to, if not identical with it, occurs twice in 
 Rymer's ' Foedera': (i) where Bartholomew de Malepilys is deputed by the King, 
 in conjunction with Thomas de Brantyngham, the King's receiver at Calais, and 
 Antoin de Vale, to receive a portion of the Duke of Burgundy's ransom ; (2) where 
 Burdet de Malpiles, of Florence, is appointed master of the mint at Calais. Vide 
 'Foedera,' vol. iii. part ii. pp. 612, 915. 
 
94 
 
 coin, with which he had paid to the said George a large sum 
 for the horse aforesaid, and thereupon urgently prayed a 
 remedy as well for himself as for the lord the King, especially 
 since money of this kind was, as he believed, manufactured by 
 the abbot himself, or had been brought by him into England 
 from distant parts, as was very probable. Accordingly, at the 
 instance of the said George, the then Mayor and Sheriffs 
 aforesaid had caused the abbot himself to be arrested on 
 suspicion and to answer before them concerning the said 
 money. But when the plaint would have been heard in the 
 Court of the lord the King, before the then Mayor and 
 Sheriffs and their officers, as well as many nobles of the King's 
 Council and of the City aforesaid, the lord the King had 
 commanded the then Mayor and Sheriffs to cause the said 
 abbot to appear before the King himself and his Council, 
 together with the cause of his arrest, which accordingly had 
 been done. 
 
 5th September, 33 Edward III. (A.D. 1359). Latin. 
 
 203. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Bailiffs 
 of Noef chastel (Newcastle) on Tyne. 
 
 Informing them that John Lovekyn, citizen of London, 
 purposed by the grace of God to freight a ship called " la 
 Weselere " of " Dordright,"* one Dederyk, of " Dordright," 
 being master, with seacoal and other merchandise in their 
 parts, to carry to the City of London, and desiring them to 
 allow the same to pass free of custom, inasmuch as both he 
 and all who are of the franchise of the said City are and ought 
 to be quit of all manner of custom throughout the King's 
 dominion. Should they desire anything on their part, 
 they (the writers) would be found ready to do what they 
 could. 
 
 London, 7th February, 33 Edward III. (a.d. I35f). 
 
 French. 
 
 * Dordrecht in Holland. 
 
95 
 
 204. John Lovekyn, Mayor, and the Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London to Robert Arnald, of Wynchelse (Winchelsea). 
 
 Authorizing him to deliver their " Flume " with all its 
 " apparaille " to Raynald Ferers, for the King's service* He 
 is not to fail in this for love's sake, and for so doing this 
 should be his warrant. 
 
 London, 17th August, 33 Edward IIL (a.D. 1359). 
 
 French. 
 
 205. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Est 
 
 Jernemouthe (East Yarmouth). 
 
 Certifying that Thomas Wryghte had arrived on a certain 
 
 day at the port of BiUingsgate in a ship called " Johan 
 
 de Est Jernemouthe," one Dykman Snow being master, and 
 had there discharged sixty quarters of corn. To this 
 testimony they are asked to give credence for love's sake. 
 London, 4th June, 32 Edward III. (1358). French. 
 
 206. The same to the Mayor and " Barouns " of \Sand\wych. 
 
 Acknowledging receipt of letters, &c. 
 
 > Illegible. French. 
 
 Temp. JOHN NOT, MAYOR, anno 38 Edward III. [A.D. 1363—4]. 
 
 207. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to Monsieur 
 
 Baudreyn de la Heuse, Admiral of France, or his Lieutenant, 
 the Mayors and Echevins, Captains, Bailiffs, Sheriffs of the 
 Towns of Roen (Rouen), Harefleu (Harfleur), Caan (Caen), 
 
 * The truce which had been made between the Kings of England and France 
 on the 23rd March, A.D. 135?, would have expired in the ordinary course at Easter 
 this year, but it had been prolonged (through negotiations carried out by Sir Walter 
 de Mannay) till the 25th June following, in order to give an opportunity for its 
 conversion into a permanent treaty of peace. The conditions, however, on which 
 the war should cease, and which had been agreed to by King Edward and King 
 John, having been rejected by the Duke of Normandy, preparations to renew the 
 war, which had been already commenced by Edward pending negotiations, were 
 now actively resumed. Vide Rymer's ' Foedera,' vol. iii. part i. pp. 348, 412, 414, 
 415, 417,426, 442 ; City Records, Letter Book G, fols. 60, 65, 75, 79 b ; Longman's 
 ■ Life and Times of Edward IIL,' vol. ii. pp. 42-3. 
 
96 
 
 Bayeusse (Bayeux), and to all other Justices of the good 
 Towns of France in parts of Normandy. 
 
 Informing them that Nicholas Peutrer, Ralph Trenewych, 
 Walter Hereville, John Syward, and William Kenteys, citizens 
 and inhabitants of London, had complained that on the 
 17th day of May last past one of their ships, laden with 360 
 pieces of white tin from Cornwall, bound for London, had been 
 captured and robbed off " le Raas de Portelond "* by seamen 
 from Normandy, called "billecokes claybakes,"f and others, 
 been carried to the castle of " Masys en Constantyn,"J 
 to " Harefleu," and elsewhere, and had been sold and the 
 proceeds divided. [The marks on the tin of the respective 
 owners are here described for their information.] They are 
 desired to use their best endeavours to recover the said ship 
 and its cargo, and to compensate the owners for their loss, 
 that there might be no necessity to lay the matter before 
 the King and his Council and obtain a remedy by other 
 means. 
 
 London, 26th July, 38 (Edward III.) a.d. 1364. French. 
 
 208. [The same] to the Bailiffs of Thomas de Beauchamp, Earl of 
 Warwick and Lord of Cower in Wales. 
 
 Complaining of their having seized wool and other mer- 
 chandise belonging to Nicholas Picket, citizen of London, at 
 " Sweneneseye " (Swansea) in the seignory of Gower, for pay- 
 ment of custom, and desiring them to restore the distress 
 they had so taken, and in future to cease demanding custom 
 from him, as being contrary to the franchise of the said 
 City, that there might be no necessity to seek a remedy 
 by other means. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 26th July, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). French. 
 
 * Race of Portland. 
 
 t Vide Letter No. 72, supra, note *. 
 
 X Coutances, duchy of Normandy. 
 
97 
 
 209. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 FIewell...{ ). 
 
 Testifying under the seal of the Mayoralty to the good 
 character of a poor pilgrim, " Robert of ye Wente de 
 Horam," and desiring them to restore to him the double 
 cloak, three pairs of gloves, three " hanapes," and three 
 " foeseles," to the value altogether of 8j., which they had 
 taken from him, on suspicion of his loyalty. 
 
 London, 23rd July, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). French. 
 
 210. Letters patent of the same, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Testifying to the good character of John Hunger van 
 Ouen, who had for many years practised as a goldsmith in 
 the City of London. 
 
 London, 8th July, 38 Edward IIL A.D. 1364. Latin. 
 
 211. The Mayor and the whole Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Most Holy Father in Christ, Pope U[rban V.]. 
 
 Humbly beseeching his Holiness not to remove Spmon 
 de Sudbury*], Bishop of London, where he is much beloved, 
 to the see of Worcester, which was a less honourable position, 
 although a little more valuable. 
 
 London, 3rd January, sm. Latin. 
 
 212. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Neweport, in 
 Flanders. 
 
 John Lovekyn, citizen of London, had complained that 
 whereas he and his agents at Great " Jernemouth " had on the 
 Sunday next after the Feast of St. Katherine (25th November) 
 last past freighted a "creyere,"t John Howe master, with 
 nine and a half lasts of red herring, of the value of 8/. 
 
 * He remained Bishop of London till 1375, when he was advanced to the 
 Primacy. Dragged from the Tower by the Kentish rebels in 1381 and murdered. 
 City Records, Letter Book H, fol. 133. 
 
 + Vide Letter No. 100, supra, note *. 
 
 H 
 
98 
 
 sterling the last, bound for the City of London, there had 
 come, in a time of peace, one Clays Cleward,* sailing in a 
 ship of " Neweport," who by force and arms had deprived 
 the said John Howe of the said "creyere"and cargo when 
 off the port of " Orewelle," and had carried them whithersoever 
 he would, to the great loss of the said Lovekyn. Pray a 
 remedy. No date. French. 
 
 213. [The same to * * * * *] 
 
 Certifying that whereas Henry Ilyngham, a merchant of 
 the Hanse of Almaine.f had lately shipped two barrels of 
 " Greywerk "J at Bruges, on board a ship whereof Lawrence 
 Persissone was master, and the said ship had perished, and 
 of the two barrels of " Greywerk " one had been found in his 
 seighory and detained as ■' Wrak," in the belief that all on 
 board had perished ; evidence had been brought to show that 
 the said barrels of " Greywerk " were the property of the said 
 Henry Ilyngham, and that none on board that ship had 
 perished. He is asked to believe this testimony, and to 
 restore to the said Henry or his attorney the barrel aforesaid. 
 The Holy Spirit have him ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 26th January, 37 Edward IH. (A.D. 136I). 
 
 French. 
 
 214. [The same] to Ferando Roderici, Judge on behalf of the illus- 
 
 trious Lord Prince and King of Portugal and Algarve, in the 
 City of Lisbon. 
 
 Certifying on the evidence of trustworthy citizens of 
 London, present on the 2nd day of July, A.D. 1364, that 
 whereas Gomez Janys, of Lisbon, on leaving England, had 
 deposited with Dominico Ferandi, merchant of London, four 
 casks of wine, with instructions to sell it if he had an oppor- 
 tunity, otherwise to give it to the poor or pour it away into 
 
 * This name appears again in Letter No. 280, infra, 
 t Vide Letter No. 74, supra, note +. 
 
 X Fur of badger skin, largely imported from Flanders and Germany in those 
 days. 
 
99 
 
 the street ; the said Dominico, failing to iind a purchaser for 
 it as it had become bad, had distributed a portion thereof to 
 the poor, and had thrown the rest, which nobody required, 
 into the street in the manner prescribed by the said Gomez. 
 The empty casks had been seized by the owner of the cellar 
 for rent, so that nothing remained in the hands of the said 
 Dominico. Further certify that the custom* of the City of 
 London was that when wine became unwholesome it was 
 thrown away into the street. To this testimony he is asked 
 to give credence, in such manner as he would wish his letters 
 to be respected in like case or weightier. Wish him farewell 
 in the name of Him by whom kings reign and princes have 
 dominion. 
 
 London, the day and year aforesaid. Latin. 
 
 215. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Prefect, 
 Sheriffs, Echevins, Bailiffs, &c., of the City of Utright 
 (Utrecht). 
 
 Certifying that Simon de Ware, citizen of London, had 
 married Katherine, daughter of Albrecht d'Almaine, late 
 saddler of London, and of Agatha his wife, who afterwards 
 married Diedrich " van the Melne," likewise a saddler ; and 
 that the said Simon and Katherine had come into court at 
 the Guildhall and had produced a general release under their 
 seals to Peter Dole, of "Utright," dated the 9th day of 
 August, A.D. 1364. They are earnestly desired to accept this 
 testimony, and to deliver to the said Simon and Katherine 
 their reasonablef part or portion of the goods which the 
 
 * In 1377 Ralph Strode, the Common Sergeant, presented to the Common 
 Council of the City that whereas the franchise and custom of the said City did 
 not allow any victuals, putrid and unsound for human use, to be housed within the 
 City, certain unwholesome wines were housed in the cellar of one William 
 Anecroft upon Botolph's Wharf. Whereupon examination was made of the 
 same by certain vintners and merchants of Bordeaux, who declaring them to be 
 corrupt, the same was adjudged by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Sheriffs to be 
 poured out in the street and thrown away, and wholly made away with, according 
 to the custom of the City. City Records, Letter Book H, fol. 62. 
 
 t Vide Letter No. 191, supra, note. 
 
 H 2 
 
lOO 
 
 aforesaid Diedrich, the husband of Agatha, possessed in their 
 city, and which remain in the hands of the said Peter Dole, 
 the brother of the aforesaid Katherine, according to the laud- 
 able custom of the city of " Utright," that they be not further 
 troubled in seeking a remedy. The Most Highest Son of 
 the glorious Virgin preserve them in happy prosperity. 
 
 No date. Latin. 
 
 216. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Rye. 
 
 Desiring them to cause Robert Blak, mariner, residing in 
 their town, to satisfy the balance of a debt due to Thomas 
 Northerne, citizen of London, for wine entrusted to him for 
 sale. The Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, i6th August, 38 Edward III. (a.d. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 217. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Dancastre (Doncaster). 
 
 Desiring them to assist John Dilwich, " sporyere,"* to 
 recover his apprentice, William de Stantlee, of the county of 
 Warwick, who had left the service of the said John and of 
 Isabel his wife, and was understood to be residing in their 
 town ; in such manner as they would wish their folk to be 
 treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 28th June, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). French. 
 
 218. The same to the Echevins, Burgomasters, Judges and Jus- 
 
 ticiaries, and the whole Commonalty of the Town of 
 Melewyk ( ). 
 
 Desiring them to cause John Gerardessone, of " Melewyk," 
 to pay to Robert de Rameseye, citizen of London and fish- 
 monger, the sum of 31/. sterling due for merchandise, with 
 damages for delay, in such manner as they would wish their 
 folk to be treated in like case or weightier. Wish them fare- 
 * Spur-maker. 
 
lOI 
 
 well in the name of Him by whom kings reign and princes 
 have dominion. 
 
 London, 22nd May, 38 Edward III. (a.d. 1364). Latin. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the same, dated 
 20th September, 38 (Edward III.). 
 
 Lxitin. 
 
 219. The same to John de Banntone, Steward to the Earl of 
 
 Stafford, and to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town 
 of Shenle (Shenley, co. Herts ?). 
 
 Desiring them to assist John Coventre, "chesemongere," to 
 recover his runaway apprentice, Simon, son of John Grene, of 
 Stanford Ryvers, who was understood to be residing in their 
 town, in such manner as they would wish their folk to be 
 treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 1 3th April, s.a. French. 
 
 220. [The same to * * * * *] 
 
 Desiring him to assist John de Derthyngton and Cristiana 
 his wife to recover their runaway apprentice, Richard, son of 
 John Fode de Barneby. Should he desire anything on his 
 part, he would find them ready to execute his wishes so far as 
 they could. The Lord have him in his keeping. 
 
 London, 27th April, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). French. 
 
 221. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Boreford (Burford, co. Oxon). 
 
 Desiring them to restore the distress they had taken from 
 the merchandise of William atte Hale, citizen of London, for 
 stallage,* and to cease to demand such toll in future, inas- 
 much as all citizens of London are and ought to be quit of all 
 manner of custom throughout the King's dominion by charter. 
 
 London, 14th June, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). French, 
 
 * Money paid for the right of erecting stalls in fairs and markets. 
 
I02 
 
 222. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 
 of Neof Chastel (Newcastle) on Tyne. 
 
 Requesting them similarly to restore the distress they had 
 taken from the merchandise of William Worin, of " Grove- 
 ham," citizen of London, for custom which their bailiffs had 
 demanded, and to cease in future to levy such distress on 
 citizens of London. 
 
 London, nth June, 38 Edward IIL (A.D. 1364). French. 
 
 223. [The same to * * * * *] 
 
 Desiring them to assist John Reg, " curreour," to recover 
 Nicholas, son of Peter Skynner, of " Grenewiche," his runaway 
 apprentice. Should they desire anything on their part, they 
 (the writers) would be found ready to execute their wishes so 
 far as they could. 
 
 London, 22nd May, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 224. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Bartone on Humbre (Barton-on-Humber). 
 
 Reminding them of former letters desiring them to restore 
 to John de Pountfreit, Robert Gerdelere, Ralph de Morton, 
 John Bret, and many other citizens of London, divers dis- 
 tresses which had been taken for custom demanded for 
 merchandise passing through the town, wherein nothing had 
 as yet been done and the distresses were still retained. And 
 inasmuch as the aforesaid citizens and all who are of the 
 franchise of the said City are and ought to be quit of all 
 manner of custom throughout the King's dominion, as well 
 beyond the sea as on this side, and in the isles of the sea as in 
 England, they are especially requested for love's sake to 
 restore the distresses so taken, that there might be no occasion 
 to write a third time on the same matter. The Lord have 
 them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 20th February, 34 Edward III. (a.D. I3f^). 
 
 French. 
 
103 
 
 A note of another letter* having been sent in the nature of an alias,\ 
 and of two more letters in the nature of pluries,% but that 
 nothing had been effected. Whereupon withernam§ had 
 been granted in the Hustings of London held on Monday, 
 the Feast of the Apostles SS. Philip and James (ist May), 
 37 (Edward III. A.D. 1363), and a precept issued to John 
 de St. Albans, Sheriff, to carry it out. 
 
 225. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Strode (Strood, co. Kent). 
 
 Desiring them to assist Robert Godeselde, citizen 
 and "purser "II of London, to recover Adam Tayllour, of 
 " Bexelee," of the parish of " Maydestone," in the county 
 of Kent, his runaway apprentice, in such manner as they 
 would wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 17th August, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 226. The same to the Prefect, Sheriffs, Bailiffs, &c., of the City 
 
 of Utright (Utrecht). 
 
 On the same subject as Letter No. 215, supra. Desiring 
 them to assist Simon de Ware, citizen of London, and 
 Katherine his wife, to recover their reasonable part of the 
 goods of Diedrich " van the Melne " and of Agatha his wife, 
 now in the possession of Peter Dale [sic), brother of the said 
 Katherine. 
 
 London, 6th April, A.D. 1 362. Latin. 
 
 227. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the City of Wyncestre 
 
 (Winchester). 
 
 Certifying that whereas Roger Powe, mercer, and Richard 
 
 * Probably Letter No. 237, infra. 
 
 \ A second or further writ issued after the original writ has had no effect 
 
 X A third writ issued if the alias failed. 
 
 § Vide Letter No. 46, supra, note *. 
 
 II Purse or pouch maker. 
 
I04 
 
 Burgh stood bound to William Wycheford, of Salisbury, in 
 the sum of 134/. sterling, due for merchandise bought at 
 Winchester fair, evidence had been produced to show that 
 the said Richard had no share of the merchandise or profits 
 arising therefrom. They are desired, therefore, to cause the 
 said Roger to satisfy the debt, that the said Richard might 
 obtain his discharge in such manner, &c. 
 London, ist March, 38 (Edward III. A.D. 136!). French. 
 
 228. [The same to *****] 
 
 Certifying that all assizes of fresh force* and mart 
 d' ancestor ^ in the City of London are pleaded before the 
 Sheriffs and Coroners of the said City, and not before the 
 Mayor and Aldermen, except in error, when the Recorder 
 and parties to the suit appear by the King's writ before 
 the Mayor and Aldermen in full Husting. And if any be 
 disseised of his frank tenement, and wish to recover it by 
 assize of fresh force, he must commence by bill within forty 
 weeks,+ otherwise he must recover by writ of right patent 
 pleaded in the Husting. But in a case of re-disseisin made 
 after recovery and by assize of fresh force, action must be 
 taken by writ of re-disseisin out of the King's Chancellery 
 before the Sheriffs of the City. And if nothing, &c. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 229. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 
 London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that about the Feast of Pentecost A.D. 1360 
 one Walter de Bixtone sold to WiUiam Machenare, of 
 
 * Otherwise called Assize of Novel-disseisin. 
 
 t This writ lay where a man's near relation had died seised of lands, and 
 after his death a stranger entered, to the prejudice of the claimant. 
 
 X According to some authorities, where a person was disseised of tenements 
 he was to bring his assize or bill of fresh force within forty days after the " force " 
 committed. Vide Lavieux, ' Natura Brevium,' p. 85 sgg., and Jacob's 'Law 
 Dictionary,' s.v. " Fresh force." On the other hand, the longer term of forty weeks 
 is also named as the limit in the ' Liber Albus ' (Master of the Rolls Series), p. 195. 
 
105 
 
 Bruges, a barrel of " Wyldewerk "* for 27/. 17^., and received 
 in part payment thereof an " escheker "t and game pertaining 
 to it, a cross of alabaster and silver, one " plates,"f and other 
 arms of iron of the value of 12/. ioj. sterling, the said barrel 
 being left in the custody of Richard atte Crouche, senior, host 
 of the said Walter, as security for the payment of the balance 
 by the Feast of St. Michael next ensuing. And forasmuch 
 as the said William had never tendered payment of the same, 
 the barrel had remained in the custody of the said Richard 
 for more than a year after the said feast, when the said 
 William shortly afterwards offered 20^. to the said Walter 
 to avoid his bargain. It had eventually been sold for fear 
 of its becoming bad, for a certain sum of money, which 
 the said Walter was willing to hand over to the said William 
 on receiving from him or his attorney the balance 
 aforesaid. 
 
 London, 19th March, A.D. 1362. French. 
 
 230. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Abbot and Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Col- 
 cestre (Colchester). 
 
 Desiring them to restore to William Dykeman, Roger 
 Streit, William Fromond, and Henry Loughton, citizens of 
 London, the distress they had taken from their merchandise 
 for " pykage "§ at Colchester fair ; and to cease in future 
 to take custom of citizens of London, inasmuch as they 
 are and ought to be quit of " pykage " and of all manner 
 of custom throughout the King's dominion, by charter 
 granted to them by the King's ancestors. The Lord have 
 them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 8th June, 38 Edward IIL (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French, 
 
 * Wild- work : perhaps the fur of wild rabbits. 
 
 + Possibly a chess-board and men. 
 
 X Qy. breastplate. 
 
 § A toll paid for picking up market ground for erecting a stall. 
 
io6 
 
 231. [The same to * * the Town of Caleys (Calais).] 
 
 Acknowledging the receipt of their letters touching a 
 debt of 49J. alleged to be due to Henry de Taunton, burgess 
 of " Caleys," by Philip le Skynnere, of London ; and informing 
 them that inasmuch as the contract had arisen in "Caleys," and 
 the matter could not conveniently be heard before the writers, 
 the parties had consented that it should be tried at " Caleys." 
 They are, therefore, requested to inquire into it and to send 
 particulars of the contract, in order that a correct judgment 
 might be arrived at in the event of the parties returning to 
 London. Should they desire anything on their part, they 
 (the writers) would be found ready to execute their wishes 
 so far as they could. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 London, 30th April, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). French. 
 
 JOHN NOT, MAYOR, anno 38 [Edward HI. 
 A.D. 1363—4]. 
 
 232. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Cestre 
 (Chester). 
 
 Desiring them to restore the distress they had taken for 
 custom from the merchandise of John de Stodeye, vintner 
 and citizen of London, whilst on its way from Flanders to 
 their town in charge of Peter Maners, his servant, contrary 
 to the liberties of the City of London; and to cease to 
 demand such custom in future, inasmuch as citizens of 
 London by charter are and ought to be quit of all manner 
 of custom throughout the King's dominion. 
 
 London, 4th June, 37 Edward HL (A.D. 1363). French. 
 
 A note of a second and a third letter having been sent to the 
 same on the same subject, to which no reply had been 
 received ; the said John, therefore, had demanded a remedy 
 according to the ancient custom* of the City of London, &c. 
 * By withernam; vide Letter No. 46, supra. 
 
I07 
 
 Also of another letter having been sent to the same on the 
 same subject, for that they had seized the merchandise of 
 the said John to the value of 20/. because Peter Mayners, 
 his servant, had sold his master's goods by retail, which he 
 was justified in doing by statute.* The aforesaid Mayor and 
 bailiffs, however, had refused to surrender the distress, where- 
 upon another letter having been sent, and no reply received, 
 the said John had demanded a remedy according to the 
 ancient custom of the City. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 233, The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Middelburgh i7i Selaiid. 
 
 Desiring them to deliver to Alice, relict of Thomas de 
 Stafford, late skinner of London, who had gone the way 
 of all flesh in their country, or to her attorney, the bearer 
 of these letters, the 170 lamb-florinsf of Flemish money 
 and other goods in their keeping formerly belonging to the 
 said Thomas, in such manner as they would wish their 
 folk to be treated in like case or weightier. Wish them 
 farewell in the name of Him by whom kings reign and 
 princes have dominion. 
 
 London, 3rd November, A.D. 1361. Latin. 
 
 234. [The same to * * the Town of 5«ry (St. Edmunds.').] 
 
 Desiring them to assist Thomas de Mildenhale, citizen 
 and ironmonger of London, to recover his runaway apprentice, 
 
 * By charter of Henry III., granted in the fiftieth year of his reign (A.D. 
 1265), citizens of London were allowed to traffic with their merchandise where- 
 soever they pleased within the King's dominion, as well by sea as land ; on the 
 other hand, great restriction had always been placed upon merchant strangers, 
 /. e. non-freemen, trading within the City, either by wholesale or retail. An 
 endeavour to remove this was made by the Statute of York, passed in the ninth 
 year of Edward III ; but the jealousy and apprehensions of the citizens became 
 thereby so excited that the King, two years later, issued letters patent declaring 
 that the privileges allowed to merchant strangers should in no wise affect the 
 rights or liberties secured to the City by the Great Charter. 
 
 + Floreni ad imdtonem, or moutons-d'or. Vide Letter No. 201, supra, note §. 
 
io8 
 
 Andrew, son of William Bruwere, who is understood to be 
 staying in the town of Bury ; in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The 
 Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, i8th October, 38 (Edward IIL A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 235. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Lynne 
 (co. Norfolk). 
 
 Desiring them to compel Henry Walton, of " Bristouwe " 
 (Bristol), residing in their town, to satisfy Robert Corn, citizen 
 of London, of a debt of 200/. sterling, due under a bond. 
 
 London, 26th August, 38 Edward IIL (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Burgomasters 
 and Echevins of the Town of Bruges, in Flanders, dated 
 29th March, 39 (Edward III. A.D. 1365). 
 
 Latin, 
 
 236. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 
 of Gloucestre (Gloucester). 
 
 Desiring them to assist William de Stokesby, taverner 
 and citizen of London, to recover his runaway apprentice, 
 Robert Lyes, of Hales, in the county of Salop, who is under- 
 stood to be living in their town ; in such manner as they 
 would wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 The Lord have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 27th August, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 237. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Bartone on Humbre (Barton-on-Humber). 
 
 Renewing the request made in Letter No. 224, stcpra. 
 
 London, ist June, 34 Edward III. (A.D. 1360). 
 
 French. 
 
I09 
 
 A note of three similar letters having been sent to the same on 
 behalf of John Bret, John atte Harpe, Hugh de Ware, 
 and John de Graveneye, the respective dates of which 
 are not inserted. 
 
 238. The Mayor, Aldermen, Recorder, and Sheriffs of the City of 
 London to the most high and most excellent Prince the 
 Lord Edward, King of England, &c. 
 
 Acknowledging the receipt of the King's gracious letters 
 desiring to be informed as to the truth of an alleged affray 
 by reason of a stream of water* which used to run towards 
 the Thames, near the hostel lately belonging to Edward de 
 Mountagu, Knt, in the ward of Queenhithe ; and certifying 
 that on the 14th day of July last past an inquiry into the 
 matter had been instituted by good and sufficient men of 
 the neighbourhood on oath, who reported that on the day 
 aforesaid a great storm of rain had come on so suddenly 
 that the water could not pass away without inflicting great 
 damage on various houses in the vicinity, and that in order 
 to prevent this, and only for the public good, the servants of 
 Madame de Gistels, who resided in the neighbourhood, had 
 broken down a wall of the house of John Tornegold, to make 
 a quick passage for the water. Whereupon the said John 
 had challenged their right to do this, but without any dis- 
 cussion or affray, so that no riot ensued on that, account. 
 God Almighty give him a long reign, with health of body 
 and mind, and victory over his enemies. 
 
 London, nth August, 37 Edward IIL (a.d. 1363). 
 
 French. 
 
 239. [The same to the much honoured Father in God * *] 
 
 Informing him that contrary to the franchise of the City 
 
 * The name of this stream was probably " Desborne" or " Dosbome." Stow 
 mentions a street of this name as running down south to the Thames, which he 
 had read of as being in the parish of St. Mary Somerset in the twenty-second 
 year of Edward III., and lying near the tenement of Edward de Mountacute, Knt. 
 Vide Strype's Stow's ' Survey,' book iii. p. 208. 
 
no 
 
 of London, John de Cliftone, Marshal of the King's Exche- 
 quer, had received a commission sealed with the seal of the 
 said Exchequer within the said City, to make inquest of land 
 and tenements of outlaws, be they for felony or for trespass, 
 which matter appertained to the Mayor of the said City as 
 to the King's Exchequer within the same, as in the charter* 
 of the lord the King granted to the citizens of the said City 
 is more fully contained. Might it please him, therefore, to 
 grant a commission to Stephen de Cavendysshe, Mayor of the 
 said City, and the King's escheator within the same, and to 
 the aforesaid John de Cliftone, to make such inquest, so that 
 the said franchise of the City and the King's right might the 
 better in all points be preserved. The Holy Spirit have him 
 ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 9th August, 37 Edward III. (a.d. 1363). 
 
 French. 
 
 240. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Bailiffs 
 and Good Folk of the Town of Berkweye (Barkway, co. 
 Herts). 
 
 Certifying that a grey horse and black bag, which, 
 together with certain other goods and chattels, had been 
 taken from Thomas de Fentone, servant of Hugh Southerne, 
 citizen of London, on suspicion of his character, are the 
 property of the said Hugh, and desiring them, therefore, to 
 restore the same ; in such manner as they would wish their 
 
 * By the first charter of Edward III., dated 6th March, in the first year of his 
 reign, and granted to the citizens of London with the assent of Parliament, it was 
 declared that the Steward, Marshals, or Clerk of the Market of the King's house- 
 hold should not thenceforth sit within the liberty of the City of London, nor 
 exercise any office there, nor any way draw any citizen of the said City to plead 
 without the liberties of the same concerning any matters arising within the liberty 
 of the same City ; and that no escheator, or other officers, should thenceforth 
 exercise the office of escheator within the liberties of the said City ; but that 
 the Mayor of the said City for the time being should exercise the office of 
 escheator within the said liberty on condition that he took his oath that he would 
 faithfully exercise the said office, and that he would answer therefor to the King 
 and his heirs, as he ought to do. 
 
Ill 
 
 folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The Lord have 
 them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, i6th November, 38 Edward IIL (a.d. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 Temp. ADAM DE BURY, MAYOR, anno 39 Edward III. 
 [A.D. 1364—5]. 
 
 241. The Mayor and Commonalty of the City of London to the 
 
 Most Reverend Father in Christ, Pope Urban (V.). 
 
 Letter testimonial in favour of Robert Pynk, Doctor of 
 Sacred Theology, Provincial Prior of the Order of Preaching 
 Friars* in England, on whom the University of Oxford had 
 conferred the honour of the doctorate, and who had for 
 twenty years or more preached the word of God in the said 
 City in the presence of the King, the Queen, the Prince, 
 dukes, earls, and other nobles of the kingdom, as well as 
 before archbishops, bishops, and other prelates of the 
 Church, as also the common people in nearly every part of 
 England ; and asking his Holiness to receive him and to 
 expedite his business. 
 
 London, 8th Kalends December [24th November], 
 A.D. 1364. Latin. 
 
 242. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Bailiffs, Constables, and Good Folk of the Town of Erehithe 
 (Erith). 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that the tun 
 of flax which they had taken from " Reingnald " Love, citizen 
 of London, on suspicion, was really his property, and re- 
 questing that it might be restored to him for love's sake, in 
 such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated in like 
 case or weightier. The Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 London, 30th November, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 * Dominicans or Black Friars. A copy of this letter is also to be found in 
 the City Records, Letter Book G, foL 139 5. 
 
112 
 
 243. The same to the Echevins and Bailiffs of the Town of 
 
 Diirdraght (Dordrecht). 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that whereas 
 John Jonessone van Brugge de " Durdright," John van 
 Brugge Arnaldessone, and John Plastrer, son of John Plastrer 
 de " Durdright," jointly owned a ship called the " Seinte 
 Marie de Durdraght " ; the said John Plastrer having brought 
 the ship to the port of London, it was there seized by Philip 
 Fitz Nichol, citizen and merchant of London, for a debt 
 of 61. sterling due to him from the aforesaid John Jonessone 
 and John Arnaldessone, which sum had been recovered by 
 the said Philip in the Sheriffs' Court of London, and had 
 been paid by the said John Plastrer on their behalf. To 
 this testimony they are asked to give credence. 
 
 London, 13th September, A.D. 1359. Latin. 
 
 244. The same to the Echevins, Burgomasters, and Council of 
 
 the same. 
 
 Certifying that on the Feast of SS. Simon and 
 Jude (28th October), 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364), Peter 
 Colyber, burgess of "Dordraght," and Gostyne Petyrsone, 
 of the same, had safely arrived in the port of London with 
 their ships laden with wine, and there having discharged 
 their cargo, had delivered the same to John Maleyt, John 
 Wylyngham, and their companions. To this testimony they 
 are asked to give credence for love's sake, in such manner 
 as they would wish their folk to be treated in like case or 
 weightier. The Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, i8th December, 38 Edward III. (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 245. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Towns 
 
 of Jernemotithe (Yarmouth) and Kirkele (Kirkley, co. 
 Suffolk). 
 
 Certifying that on Wednesday next after the Feast of 
 the Conception of Our Lady (8th December), 38 Edward 
 
"3 
 
 III. (a.D, 1364), Roger Holiwell, master of the ship called 
 " Welfare de Orewell," Robert Bonde, master of the ship 
 called " La plente de Sayere " (?), John Knight, master of 
 the ship called " Myghel de Wenetone," and Thomas Bakere, 
 master of the ship called " Raulyn Gobbe," of London, had 
 safely arrived in the port of London, and having discharged 
 their cargo of red herring from " Jernemouthe," had delivered 
 the same to John Blakeneye, Stephen Gloucestre, Thomas 
 Wylford, and others of the trade of fishmongers. To this 
 testimony they are asked to give credence for love's sake, 
 in such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated 
 in like case or weightier. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, i8th December, 38 Edward IIL (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 246. The Mayor, Recorder, and Aldermen of the City of 
 London to the Doge (Giovanni Delfino) and Council of 
 Venice. 
 
 Certifying under their Common Seal that Philip de Legh, 
 of London, late a notary by apostolic authority, deceased, 
 had been a true notary so long as he lived ; and that Master 
 William de Bridport, a notary by apostolic and imperial 
 authority, had been clearly proved to be a true notary ; and 
 that all obligations, instruments, and records by them made 
 in the matter of a debt due by Sir Thomas Bysset and Sir 
 Walter de Lesseley, Knights, of Scotland, to William de 
 Neuton, late citizen of London, and Matthew Broun, now 
 citizen of the same, were true, trustworthy, and valid. 
 Desire them, therefore, to see justice done in their Court 
 to Philip de Neuton, brother and executor of the said 
 William, and to the said Matthew Broun, according to the 
 force, form, and effect of the obligations and instruments 
 aforesaid, as they would themselves wish to be treated in 
 like case or weightier. 
 
 London, i8th December, A.D. 1364. Latin. 
 
114 
 
 247. The same to the Priors oi the Arts and Standard-bearer of 
 
 Justice, the People and Commonalty of Florence* 
 A letter similar to the above. 
 
 London, i8th December, A.D. 1364. Latin. 
 
 248. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London 
 
 to the Echevins, Burgomasters, Bailiffs, and Judges of the 
 Town of Flyssyng (Flushing) in Seland. 
 
 Desiring them to restore to Simon de Mordone, citizen of 
 London, the last of white herring which had been seized on 
 board a ship of "Flyssyng" belonging to the said Simon, 
 Giles Horn being master, when in a certain port called 
 " Coupmanhavene,"-]- within the dominion of the King of the 
 Danes ; in such manner as they would wish their merchants 
 to be treated in like case or weightier. Wish them farewell 
 in the name of Him by whom kings reign and princes have 
 dominion. 
 
 London, 15th February, 39 Edward IH. A.D. 1364. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 249. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Norhamptone 
 (Northampton). 
 
 Certifying that a certain Fremond de la Port de 
 Norhamptone had complained that having given to 
 Hugh Hegham, clerk, 6 marks sterling to pay to Gilbert 
 Bonet, he had only paid him 2 marks of that sum. 
 On the other hand, the said Hugh alleged that the 
 said Fremond had sold 40 gallons of sweet wine at North- 
 ampton, at 28 pence the gallon, belonging to the said Hugh, 
 and it was on this account that he had received the 6 marks, 
 and not for the purpose of paying the said Gilbert. He 
 further declared that some time afterwards the said Fremond 
 had come to him and borrowed 2 marks, in order to satisfy a 
 
 * Vide Letter No. i, supra, note, 
 t Copenhagen. 
 
115 
 
 portion of a debt which he owed to the said Gilbert, and that 
 he had paid Gilbert this sum, on behalf of the said Fremond 
 as a loan, and had never been repaid. The said Fremond 
 alleged that he had never sold any wine belonging to the 
 said Hugh. They are desired to inquire into the particulars 
 of the matter, and to send information by bearer as to the 
 result. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 250. Innocent,* &c., to his most dear son in Christ, Charles (IV.), 
 Emperor of the Romans. 
 
 Was much distressed at the news sent him by his reverend 
 brother Taillerand,t Bishop of Albano, the Papal Nuncio, of 
 the capture of John,t King of the French, whilst fighting for 
 his country, and of the captivity and loss of many princes and 
 nobles. The Church had ever tried to negotiate between the 
 Kings of England and of France,§ but up to that time with 
 little effect. Would know no peace of mind till the captives 
 were set at liberty, and therefore writes to his Highness to use 
 his interest with the King of England and the noble prince 
 
 * Pope Innocent VI. A letter of credence from him addressed to Edward, 
 Prince of Wales, on behalf of the same Taillerand and of Nicholas, Cardinal of 
 St. Vitalis, with exhortations for peace, and dated 5 Nones October (nth October), 
 in the fourth year of his pontificate (a.d. 1356), is entered in the City Records, 
 Letter Book G, folio 53. 
 
 t Son of Elias Talleyrand, Comte de Perigord, Bishop of Auxerre in 1329 ; 
 created Cardinal of St. Peter ad Vincula in 1331, and Bishop of Albano in 1348. 
 Sent as Papal Legate to France in 1356, when he took a prominent part in attempt- 
 ing to negotiate a peace between the Kings of England and France immediately 
 before the battle of Poitiers ; and in the following year proceeded to England to 
 mediate between them. It was greatly owing to his good offices that a truce was 
 made between England and France till Easter 1359. Vide Rymer's 'Foedera,' 
 vol. iii. part i. pp. 338, 348, 357 ; Ciacon., ' Hist. Pontif. Roman.,' vol. ii. p. 430; 
 Walsingham, ' Hist. Angl.,' vol. i. p. 283. 
 
 X John de Valois, taken prisoner by the Black Prince at the battle of Poitiers, 
 19th September, 1356, and carried to London, where he was lodged in the 
 Savoy. 
 
 § Clement VI., predecessor to Innocent VI. in the papal chair, had been no 
 less zealous in endeavouring to bring about a peace between these two kings. Vide 
 Rymer's 'Fcedera/ vol. iii. part i. pp. 184, 202. 
 
 I 2 
 
Ii6 
 
 his son towards accomplishing this object,* in full confidence 
 that, with the aid of Him who calmed the waves of the 
 sea for the feet of St. Peter that the watery path might 
 afford him a iirm resting-place for his footsteps, he would 
 be able to effect the liberation of the King and the 
 nobles whom the fortune of war had placed within their 
 power. 
 
 No date. Latiti. 
 
 251. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to 
 the Burgesses of the Town of Donkirke (Dunkirk), in 
 Flanders. 
 
 It had been certified on oath that John Horn, citizen of 
 London, had entrusted to John Cartyn, one of their burgesses, 
 14 pipes and 3 tuns of ale, of the value of 15 livres, to sell 
 and to pay him the proceeds, which had not been paid. 
 They are, therefore, desired to enforce payment of the same, 
 in such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated 
 in like case or weightier. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 22nd March, 39 Edward HL (A.D. 136I). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a second and third letter having been sent to the same 
 
 on a similar matter, dated respectively the 4th July and 
 
 5th November the same year.f 
 Also of a fourth letter on a similar matter having been sent to 
 
 the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Sandewych, dated the 
 
 20th December (the same year). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 * Acting on this suggestion, the Emperor appears to have written two letters 
 to the King of England, who in his reply, dated the 13th November, 1356, acknow- 
 ledging the receipt of them, declares that if peace could be obtained he would be 
 in the highest degree gratified that it should be brought about by means of his 
 offered mediations. Vide Rymer's ' Fcedera/ vol. iii. part i. p. 343. 
 
 t Letter No. 258, infra. 
 
117 
 
 252. John Pecchie, Mayor of the City of London, in England, to 
 
 all Justices or their Lieutenants. 
 
 Informing them that Pierre de Villebeon, esquire, son of 
 Sire de Villebeon, in Gastinoys, was being held hostage in 
 London for a certain number of florins for the ransom of the 
 fortresses of Tournelles les Villemarchaz in Gastinoys, which 
 sum was owing to the lord the King of England ; and 
 desiring them, therefore, on the King's behalf and his own, 
 to certify clearly under their seal the names and sur- 
 names of those who were bound by the said ransom, 
 and also of those who had received money on that account, 
 and the respective amounts, as it was understood to be 
 the fact that large sums had been received and levied on 
 the country. They are requested to do this in order that 
 the King might receive his due, and that the said hostage 
 might be set at liberty to return to his country, as both he 
 and his friends desired. May it please them to do this 
 much for the lord the King and for him (the writer), as 
 they would wish done for them in like case or weightier ; 
 and to send information by bearer as to what their 
 pleasure is. 
 
 London, the last day of May, 36 Edward III. A.D. 1362. 
 
 French. 
 
 253. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Very Reverend Father in God, Thomas (Percy), Bishop of 
 Norwich. 
 
 Informing him that Edmund Hemenhale, late citizen of 
 London, by his will proved and enrolled in the Guildhall* 
 of the said City, had devised to his son Thomas 60/. sterling, 
 and other goods and chattels to the value of f , and 
 
 had appointed his executor, Stephen de Tutyngton, parson 
 of the church of " Hegestrete,"J in the diocese of Norwich, 
 
 * Hust. Roll, No. 77 (178), A.D. 1349. 
 t Sum omitted in the original. 
 X Qy. Hessett, co. Suffolk. 
 
ii8 
 
 to be guardian of the said Thomas until he should come to 
 full age. And forasmuch as the said Stephen had lately 
 died intestate within his diocese, it was understood that the 
 administration of the above goods and chattels had passed 
 into his (the bishop's) hands, and the said Thomas had 
 become their orphan.* He is, therefore, especially desired 
 to safeguard the same in the interest of the said orphan, that 
 there might be no necessity to seek other remedy. Should 
 he desire anything on his part, he would find them ready 
 to do what they could. The Holy Spirit have him in his 
 keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 254. The same to the Burgomasters, Echevins, and Councillors of 
 the Town of Durdright (Dordrecht). 
 
 Henry Pykard and Thomas de Notyngham, citizens of 
 London, had complained that a certain ship of theirs 
 called the " Seinte Marie " had been seized at the suit of 
 Henry Boudewynessone, who had declared that a certain 
 sum of money was owing to him in respect of the same. The 
 said Henry and Thomas and many others had publicly 
 certified on oath that no such sum of money was due to the 
 said Henry Boudewynessone nor to any one else in respect 
 of the said ship, as more fully appears in a certain deed 
 sealed with the seals of the said Henry and his partner, 
 and also the seals of the Barons of Sandwich. This had 
 been produced before the said burgomasters by the said 
 
 * The Corporation of London formerly had, by ancient custom, which was 
 confirmed by charter of Richard II. granted to the citizens in the first year of his 
 reign, with the assent of Parliament, the custody of all freemen's orphans. The 
 appointment of their guardians and the administration of their goods and chattels 
 appertained to a Court of Orphans, presided over by the Common Serjeant, which 
 Court formed part of the jurisdiction of the Court of Aldermen. Since the repeal 
 by statute (4 Geo. I. c. 18) of the City custom under which citizens were pro- 
 hibited from disposing by will of more than one-third of their personal estate, 
 the remainder being paid into the City Chamber in trust for their widows and 
 orphans, the functions of this Court of Orphans have entirely ceased. Vide 
 Bohun's ' Privileg. Lond.,' p. 324 ; Norton's ' Comment.,' pp. 392-3. 
 
119 
 
 Thomas de Notyngham, who had offered at the time to 
 make oath before them that no such sum was due; but for 
 this they had no leisure, owing to the war* in which they 
 were then engaged. It was understood, on the other hand, 
 that the said Henry Boudewynessone had complained of a 
 certain ship of his having been illegally seized in the City 
 of London, to his great loss. In respect of this charge, they 
 are informed that, the said Henry and his brother having 
 feloniously killed a man in the City aforesaid, the Sheriffs 
 had taken the ship, alleged to have been seized by the 
 writers, into the King's hand, as forfeited to him according 
 to the law of England.f 
 
 No date (a.d. 1359). Latin. 
 
 255. The same to the Steward and Bailiffs of the Town of Drougheda 
 (Drogheda), in Ireland. 
 
 Stephen White, citizen of London, had complained that 
 Thomas Godman de Hayston, who frequently visited their 
 town, was bound to him in the sum of 10/. gs. sterling, not 
 a penny of which had he yet received. They are desired, 
 therefore, as soon as they can discover the said Thomas in 
 their town, to summon him before them and compel him to 
 satisfy the said Stephen, or his attorney, the bearer, of the 
 said debt ; and in other matters to favour and assist the 
 said Stephen and Isabel his wife, in such manner 
 as they would wish their own folk to be treated in 
 like case or weightier. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 19th April, 34 Edward III. (A.D. 1359). 
 
 French. 
 
 * Upon the expiration of the truce between England and France in 1359, an 
 expedition into France was set on foot by Edward III. the like of which, accord- 
 ing to Froissart, was never seen before. Among the mercenaries who awaited the 
 arrival of the King at Calais from the beginning of August till November of that 
 year were many Brabanters, Flemings, and Hainaulters. 
 
 t Formerly at common law all felonies occasioned the forfeiture of lands or 
 goods. Kerr's ' Blackstone's Comment.,' vol. iv. pp. S2-3. 
 
I20 
 
 256. The same to the Burgomasters, Echevins, and Councillors of 
 
 the Town of Dourdright (Dordrecht). 
 
 On the same subject as No. 254, supra. Certifying 
 under the seal of the Mayoralty that whereas Heniy Bou- 
 dewynessone had claimed a share in the ship called "la 
 Seinte Marie " arrested by them, it had been proved 
 on oath that Henry Pykard and Thomas de Notyngham 
 had purchased the same at Sandwich of the said Henry 
 Boudewynessone and his partner, and had fully paid for it, as 
 appeared by deed sealed with the seals of the said Henry and 
 his partner, and also the seal of the Mayoralty of the town of 
 Sandwich, which had been produced before them. Touching 
 the charge made by the said Henry Boudewynessone that a 
 ship of his had been illegally seized in the City of London, 
 they are informed that it had been seized by the Sheriffs as 
 forfeited to the King by reason that the said Henry and two 
 of his brothers had feloniously killed a man within the said City. 
 They had also been given to understand by the said Henry 
 Boudewynessone that the King of England had illegally 
 arrested and imprisoned him in the town of Calais, and had 
 thence removed him to the King's prison of " Flete," in 
 London. They are informed that the said Henry had laden 
 the aforesaid ship called " la Seinte Marie " at " Lenne " 
 (Lynn) with malt belonging to the King to convey to the 
 town of Calais, but that, owing to the negligence of the said 
 Henry, the cargo had perished at sea ; whereupon the King 
 had seized and imprisoned him, but afterwards had, at their 
 earnest request, forgiven him and set him free, together with 
 the aforesaid ship. They are, therefore, urgently desired to 
 surrender the same to the said citizens of London, in such 
 manner as they themselves or any one of them would wish to 
 be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 2nd October, A.D. 1359. Latin. 
 
 257. The same to the Mayor of the City oi B our deux (Bordeaux). 
 
 Desiring him to assist Margery, the widow and executrix 
 
121 
 
 of John, son of Thomas de Cavendisshe, late mercer of the 
 City of London, to recover the sum of 80/. sterling which the 
 said John had formerly lent to William Caban, citizen of 
 London, and Arnald de Malegn (?), merchant, and had not 
 been repaid. 
 
 London, 8th March, 35 Edward IIL (A.D. 136^). 
 
 French. 
 
 Temp. ADAM DE BURY and JOHN LOVEKYN, MAYORS,* 
 anno 40 [Edward IIL A.D. 1365 — 136A]. 
 
 258. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Mayor and Burgesses of the Town of Donkirke (Dunkirk), in 
 Flanders. 
 
 Reminding them of two former letters which had been 
 sent, and renewing the request contained in letter No. 251, 
 snpra. 
 
 London, 5th November. 39 Edward III. (A.D. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 259. The same to the Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Caleys 
 
 (Calais). 
 
 Certifying that it had been proved on oath that Cristine 
 
 Pouncy was and is the daughter and heir of Geffrey Pouncy 
 
 and of Agnes his wife, begotten in lawful wedlock according 
 
 to the laws of God and Holy Church ; also that Margery 
 
 Stryke was likewise daughter and heir of William Stryke 
 
 and of Joan his wife, as appears by a letter patent under the 
 
 authentic seal of the Reverend Father in God Simon (de 
 
 Sudbury), Bishop of London ; the which Agnes and Joan 
 
 were the legitimate sisters of one William Haryngey, and 
 
 * Adam de Bury was re-elected Mayor and sworn on the Feast of SS. Simon 
 and Jude (28th October), 39 Edward III. (a.d. 1365), and held office till the 28th 
 day of January, 40 Edward III. (a.d. 136I), on which day he was discharged at the 
 King's commandment, and John Lovekyn elected in his place. The latter con- 
 tinued in office until succeeded by James Andrew on the Feast of SS. Simon and 
 Jude, 41 Edward III. City Records, Letter Book F, fol. 233 ; Fabyan's 'Chronicle,' 
 ed. by Sir Henry Ellis, iSii, p. 477 ; and Letter Book G, fol. 196. 
 
122 
 
 had lately died at " Caleys " ; and desiring them, therefore, 
 for love's sake to be favourable and gracious unto the said 
 Cristine and Margeiy, who had business to transact in their 
 parts, according to the laws and usages of the town of 
 "Caleys," in such manner as they would wish their folk to 
 be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 7th November, 39 Edward III. (A.D. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of 
 the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 260. Letters patent of Simon (de Sudbury), Bishop of London. 
 
 Certifying that Thomas de Bolyngton, of the town of 
 Hatfield Regis, in the county of Essex and diocese of 
 London, was son and heir of Thomas de Bolyngton, of the 
 same town, deceased, and of Agnes de Ledbury his wife, 
 born in lawful wedlock according to common report, and 
 that both before and after his birth other sons and daughters 
 had been born to the same, as appeared in an inquisition 
 taken by his commissary and open to public inspection. 
 
 Dated "Klaketone" (Clacton, co. Essex), 13 Kalends 
 of August (20th July), A.D. 1363, and in the second 
 year of his consecration. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 261. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of South- 
 ampton. 
 
 Desiring them to re.store the distress they had taken 
 for custom from John de Lyncoln, son of Thomas de 
 Lyncoln, of Lynne (co. Norfolk), bound apprentice to Adam 
 de Wroxham, mercer of London, as he is a citizen of 
 London, and therefore is and ought to be quit of all 
 manner of custom throughout the King's dominion, by 
 
123 
 
 charters granted to the said City by the progeriitors of 
 the lord the King. 
 
 London, 22nd January, 39 Edward III. (a.d. 136^). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs of 
 Southampton on behalf of Robert Monk. 
 
 Latift. 
 
 262. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 of Leycestre (Leicester). 
 
 Desiring them to assist William de Lyverpol, citizen 
 and goldsmith of the City of London, to recover John 
 de Lyverpol, his brother, who had been bound apprentice 
 to him for a term of ten years, but had run away and 
 was now living in the town of " Leycestre." The Lord 
 have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 7th March, 40 Edward III. (A.D. 136I). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor 
 and Bailiffs of Chichestre on behalf of John Mallyng, 
 "smyth," for the recovery of his apprentice Stephen, 
 son of William Maior, dated 20th May, 40 Edward III. 
 (A.D. 1366). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 Temp. JOHN LOVEKYN, MAYOR, anno 40 [Edward III. 
 
 A.D. 136^'— 4]- 
 
 A note of two letters having been sent on behalf of Nicholas 
 Extone,* fishmonger, respecting a runaway apprentice, &c., 
 
 * Afterwards Mayor in 1386 and 1387. Was a strenuous supporter of the 
 freemen fishmongers against the party of John de Northampton, who, when Mayor 
 in 1382, endeavoured to break down their monopoly and extend their privileges to 
 strangers, i.e., non-freemen. It is recorded that Nicholas Brembre, his predecessor 
 in the Mayoralty, and others endeavoured to persuade Nicholas Extone, at the 
 time he was Mayor, to join them in a plot against the life of the Duke of Glou- 
 
124 
 
 whereof one was sent to the Bailiffs oi Abytidone (Abingdon), 
 in the county of Berks, and the other to the Sheriffs of the 
 same county, dated 2nd July, 40 (Edward III. A.D. 1366). 
 Also of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor and 
 Bailiffs of the Town of Cambridge, concerning a runaway 
 apprentice of John Welles, leatherseller, dated 3rd July, 
 40 (Edward III. A.D. 1366). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 263. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to Ralph 
 Spigurnell, Constable of Dovere (Dover), or his Deputy. 
 
 Desiring him to assist William de Alvetheley, citizen 
 and "spicer" of London, to recover John atte Mede de 
 Storteford, in the county of Hertford, who had been bound 
 apprentice to him for a term of seven years and had suddenly 
 left his service, and was understood to be living in their town. 
 The Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, i6th July, 40 Edward III. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs of 
 Northampton on behalf of Thomas atte Crouche, " sporier," 
 dated i6th July, 40 (Edward III. A.D. 1366). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 264. The same to the Bailiffs, Constables, and Good Folk of the 
 Town of Maydcnhethe (Maidenhead), in the county of 
 Berks. 
 
 Certifying that John Pryde, tailor, William Smart, 
 " smyth," and Adam Irysshe, late " servantz " in the City 
 of London, who had been seized, together with their goods 
 and chattels, on suspicion that they were men of evil 
 character, had been proved on trustworthy evidence to be 
 loyal men and of good repute, and desiring, therefore, their 
 
 cester, who was to be invited to a supper and then murdered, but without effect. 
 Walsingham's ' Hist. Angl.,' vol. ii. p. 150. 
 
125 
 
 release, together with their goods and chattels, in such 
 manner as they would wish their folk to be treated in 
 like case or weightier. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 24th July, 40 Edward III. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the contents of 
 the above letter. Latin. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Bailiffs and Good 
 Folk of the City of Rouchestre (Rochester) on behalf 
 of John Gros, concerning custom not to be paid, dated 
 8th August, 40 (Edward IIL A.D. 1366). 
 
 Also of a letter having been sent to the Bailiffs, Constables, 
 and Good Folk of the Town of Pennerethe (Penrith), in the 
 county of " Carlelle " (Carlisle), on behalf of Agnes Pykerell, 
 for the recovery of Matthew Wynefeld, of " Danecastre " 
 (Doncaster), her runaway apprentice, dated i8th August, 
 40 (Edward III. AD. 1366). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 265. Letters patent of Adam de Bury, Mayor, and Aldermen of the 
 City of London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that John de Radeclive, son of John de Rade- 
 clive, called " Taillour," of London, born in the parish of 
 St. Botolph without Aldersgate, had a portion of his left ear 
 bitten off", whilst in the service of one Clement Spice, by a 
 savage horse belonging to his master, to such a degree that 
 the ear remained unhealed at the present day ; and in order 
 that his character might not suffer by incurring the suspicion 
 of his having been punished for theft or other matter, the 
 said John had prayed them to testify to the truth, which 
 they hereby do. 
 
 London, 4th December, 39 Edward III. a.d. 1365. 
 
 Latin. 
 
126 
 
 Temp. ADAM DE BURY and JOHN LOVEKYN, MAYORS* 
 a7ino 40 [Edward III. A.D. 1365 — 136^]. 
 
 266. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 
 Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Wyrcestre (Wor- 
 cester). 
 
 John Mordon, stockfishmonger and citizen of London, 
 had complained that whereas he had divers merchandise to 
 sell in their city on every day of the week, like as other folk 
 of the City of London had been hitherto accustomed to do 
 time out of mind, he had been constrained to sell only on the 
 usual market days, contrary to the law merchant.f They are, 
 therefore, desired to suffer him to sell his merchandise from 
 day to day at his will, as all citizens of London have hitherto 
 been accustomed, without impeachment or disturbance of 
 any, and to send information as to what they are willing to 
 do in the matter, and how and wherefore they had annoyed 
 him. 
 
 London, 27th September, 39 Edward IIL (a.d. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 267. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs and Good Folk of the 
 
 Town of Suthamptone (Southampton). 
 
 John Aubrey, citizen of London, had complained of 
 their proposal to confiscate a tun of oil which Thomas 
 Gernet, his agent, had entrusted to John Chaundeller to 
 sell for the benefit of the said John Aubrey, on the ground 
 that the said John Chaundeller had sold it by retail.J Express 
 surprise at this, inasmuch as citizens of London had been 
 accustomed hitherto to do this without impeachment. 
 
 * Vide Letter No. 258, supra, note. 
 
 t Or Lex Mercatoria. A law differing from the common law of England, and 
 peculiar to merchants, forming a part of the laws of the realm. It provided a 
 speedy determination to disputes arising among merchants trading in a borough 
 to which they did not themselves belong, the judges being ordinarily the Mayor, 
 Bailiffs, or principal officer of the borough. 
 
 X Vide Letter No. 232, supra, note *, p. 107. 
 
127 
 
 Furthermore, they had prevented the said Thomas Gernet from 
 selling his master's goods by his own proper balances and 
 measures, as he had hitherto been accustomed to do without 
 impeachment or disturbance of any. They are, therefore, 
 desired to suffer the said Thomas and all other agents of the 
 said John Aubrey to sell his merchandise in manner as they 
 had always been accustomed, and to assist them in law 
 and justice, in such manner as they would wish their fellow 
 citizens to be treated in like case or weightier, and not to 
 confiscate the said tun of oil by reason aforesaid. Should 
 they desire anything on their part, they (the writers) would be 
 found ready to do what they could, according to law and 
 reason. The Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, loth October, 39 Edward IIL (A.D. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 268. The same to the Bailiffs, Constables, and Good Folk of 
 
 the Town of Warbultone (Warbleton), in the County of 
 Sussex. 
 
 Desiring them to assist Henry Sket, citizen and stockfish- 
 monger of London, to recover possession of Robert Bat, 
 his apprentice, who had suddenly left his service and was 
 understood to be residing in their town. 
 
 London, 3rd December, 39 Edward III. (A.D. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor, Sheriffs, 
 Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Chester on behalf 
 of Walter Persone, servant of John Piel, whose goods had 
 been seized on suspicion, dated i6th February, 40 Edward 
 
 in. (A.D. I36f). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 269. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 
 of Southampton. 
 
 Desiring them to restore the distress they had taken 
 
128 
 
 from William Malewayn for payment of custom and toll, 
 inasmuch as he was a freeman of the City of London, the 
 citizens whereof are and ought to be quit of all manner of 
 custom throughout the King's dominion ; and to cease for 
 the future to take such distress. 
 
 London, isth May, 39 Edward IIL (a.d. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to John de Warton, 
 Bailiff of the Countess of Pembroke,*^ in the Town of 
 Torkysey (Torksey), in the county of Lincoln, on behalf 
 of William Tubbe de Leycestre, that he should not in future 
 be compelled to pay custom or toll, dated 21st May, 
 40 Edward IIL (a.d. 1366). 
 
 Also of a letter having been sent to Thomas de Wake, Lord of 
 Blysworth, in the county of Northampton, on behalf of an 
 apprentice of William de Norton, saddler, dated 15 th June, 
 40 Edward III. (a.d. 1366). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 Temp. JOHN LOVEKYN, MAYOR, anno 40 Edward III. 
 [A.D. 136I— 1 36^]. 
 
 270. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to Monsieur 
 Richard Dammory and Monsieur Nicholas Dammory. 
 
 John Nichole, a surgeon of the City of London, had 
 complained that his goods and chattels, to wit, three horses, 
 three dozen pieces of cloth of russet and blanket, and seven 
 stone of wool, had been seized on suspicion by Robert 
 Gamage, bailiff of the said Monsieur Richard in the town 
 of " Edyngtone." Certify that the said John had been proved 
 to be a loyal man and of good repute, and that the goods 
 aforesaid belonged to him and to none other ; and desire 
 them, therefore, for love's sake to restore the same, in such 
 
 * The Lady Margaret Plantagenet, daughter of King Edward III., first wife 
 of John Hastings, second Earl of Pembroke. 
 
129 
 
 manner as they would wish tfieir folk to be treated in like 
 case or weightier. The Holy Spirit have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, ist June, 40 Edward III. (A.D. 1366). French. 
 
 271. The same to Thomas (de Wolmersty), Abbot of Waltham 
 Holy Cross, his Steward or Deputy in the Town of Suthweld 
 (South Weald), in the County of Essex. 
 
 Understood from William Peres de Blakemore that 
 William Herde, the abbot's bailiff in the town of " Suthweld," 
 had seized his horse in the said town on suspicion that it 
 had been stolen. Certify that the said William Peres 
 had purchased the same in London from one John Wastel, 
 citizen of London, on Friday next after the Feast of the 
 Conception of Our Lady (8th December), in the thirty-ninth 
 year of the reign of King Edward HI. (A.D. 1365), in the 
 presence of good men of the said City ; and desire them, 
 therefore, to restore the same, in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The 
 Lord have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 8th June, 40 Edward HI. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 Fi'ench. 
 
 272. The same to the Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Caleys 
 
 (Calais). 
 
 John de Chichestre, hosteller and citizen of London, 
 
 had complained that whereas Philip le Walsshe, lately 
 
 residing in the said City, had bought a number of " ermynes " 
 
 of one Peter de Mildenhale, pelterer, of the same city, of the 
 
 value of 20/. sterling, he, the said John, had, at the request 
 
 of the said Philip, become surety for him in a bond for 
 
 40/. for payment of the same, of which sum the said Philip 
 
 had only paid 70J. when he betook himself suddenly out 
 
 of England. The aforesaid Peter, therefore, had sued the 
 
 complainant in the Court of John Brickelesworth, one of 
 
 the Sheriffs of London, and had recovered the balance due, 
 
 K 
 
I30 
 
 and the said John de Chichestre had been cast into prison 
 until the same had been paid, to the great prejudice of 
 his estate. A copy of the record of these proceedings is 
 enclosed, to which they are asked to give credence, and 
 to cause the said Philip, who is understood to be living 
 in their town, to satisfy the said John de Chichestre of 
 the debt aforesaid, as well as of all costs and damages 
 for imprisonment. 
 
 London, 2ist August, 40 Edward III. (a.d. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 Temp. ADAM DE BURY, MAYOR, anno 39 [Edward III. 
 A.D. 1364— 1 36f]. 
 
 273. Letters of protection granted by John Peche, Mayor, under the 
 seal of the Mayoralty, in favour of John de Ville, clerk of the 
 Lady Queen Blanche,* who had been arrested in London and 
 kept prisoner at the suit of Perrinet de Villeboen.f esquire, 
 and others, on the charge of having received money for the 
 ransom of the fortress of " Tournelles les Villes marchaz," in 
 Gastinoys, whereof" Dygon"J de Molyneus had formerly been 
 captain. The said John had denied having ever received 
 anything on that account ; and the parties having agreed to 
 appear in London for judgment, he is hereby taken under 
 the protection of the lord the King and of the Mayor, and 
 his person and goods are set free. 
 
 London, Saturday next after the Feast of the Ascension 
 of our Lord, 28th May, 36 Edward III. A.D. 1362. 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Bailiffs of Kaxstone 
 (Caxton), in the county of Cambridge, on behalf of John 
 Stokyngbury, fishmonger, dated 12th March, 39 (Edward III. 
 A.D. 136I). 
 
 Latin. 
 * Queen Dowager of France. 
 
 t Vide Letter No. 252, supra. 
 
 X "Dijon" or "Dicon." 
 
131 
 
 274. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to Nicholas 
 
 Stukle, Sheriff of Cambridge and Huntingdon. 
 
 John Stokyngbury, citizen and fishmonger of London, 
 had complained that three horses of his, one being white, 
 another black, and the third bay, had been seized on sus- 
 picion by one John Frewylle, Knt., and his bailiffs and 
 constables of the town of "Kaxtone " (Caxton, co. Cambridge), 
 when in the custody of Richard Chester, one of the servants 
 of the said John Stokyngbury. It had been proved on oath 
 that the said John was a loyal man and of good repute, and 
 that the said horses belonged to him and to none other. 
 Desire therefore, for love's sake that the same be restored, 
 in such manner as he would wish his folk to be treated in 
 like case or weightier, and to send word as to the cause of 
 such grievance being inflicted on a citizen of London, and 
 what had become of the said Richard Chester. The Lord 
 have him ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 13th May, 39 Edward IIL (a.U. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 
 275. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 
 of Gildeforde (Guildford). 
 
 John Raleghe, citizen of London, had complained that 
 one coverlet, one pair of sheets, three hoods, one pair of 
 linen cloths, and one pair of shoes had been lately seized, 
 on the suspicion that Gilbert Wolford, his servant, was 
 disloyal and of a bad character. Certify that it had been 
 proved on oath that the said Gilbert was a loyal man, and 
 that the above goods were the proper goods and chattels of 
 the said Gilbert and of none other, and desire them, there- 
 fore, to restore the same to him or his attorney, the bearer, 
 in such manner as they would wish their folk to be treated 
 in like case or weightier. The Lord have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 29th May, 39 Edward IIL (a.d. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 K 2 
 
132 
 
 276. The same to their Very Reverend and Honoured Father in 
 God, Simon (Islip),* Archbishop of Canterbury and Primate 
 of all England. 
 
 Had heard that he had summoned John de Whytefeld, 
 one of the officers of the lord the King within the City of 
 London, to appear before him on the morrow of St. John 
 the Baptist next to come, for an offence committed against 
 him in his office. Ask his lordship that he will be pleased 
 to inform them of the offence by letter, and they will 
 willingly cause it to be redressed, if any there be, by the 
 advice of their Council, for they would be very grieved that 
 any offence should be committed within their jurisdiction and 
 franchise affecting his lordship ; they had always been ready, 
 in cases where complaint of any grievance had been made to 
 them, to provide a speedy remedy. Pray him, therefore, to 
 revoke the summons, and to grant a favourable ear to their 
 good friend Robert de Kaytone, Common Serjeant, the bearer 
 of these letters, who will address him on their behalf Would 
 always be found ready to further his wishes. The Almighty 
 grant him a long life and increased honours. 
 
 London, 14th June, 39 Edward HI. (A.D. 1365). French. 
 
 211. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 of Suthamptone (Southampton). 
 
 Had been informed by William Todenham, citizen of 
 London, that certain goods of his had been seized in the 
 hands of William de Retford, merchant and servant of the 
 aforesaid William, by John Wytegood, receiver of custom in 
 their town, for payment of custom and toll, contrary to charters 
 granted by the King's progenitors to the citizens of London, 
 whereby they are and ought to be quit of all manner of custom 
 throughout the King's dominion. They are, therefore, desired 
 to restore what had been taken, and to cease in future to 
 demand any custom from him, lest a remedy should be 
 sought in another way owing to their default, and further 
 
 * Nominated by Papal Bull dated 7th October, 1349 ; ob. 26th April, 1366. 
 
^33 
 
 to send word by bearer what they purpose doing in the 
 matter, and to certify the reason why they had annoyed a 
 citizen of London at this time. The Lord have them ever in 
 his keeping. 
 
 London, 13th June, 39 Edward III. (a.d. 1365). French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the same, dated 
 1 8th June, 39 Edward IIL, on behalf of William Mapel ; also 
 to the Bailiffs of Wyndesores (Windsor) on behalf of John 
 Chapman and Robert Russe, " brasiers,"* dated 20th June, 39 
 (Edward IIL). Latin. 
 
 278. The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 
 of No7'hamptone (Northampton). 
 
 Certifying that Thomas Catworth, of Northampton, had 
 come into the chamber of the Guildhall of London on the 
 i6th day of February, 36 Edward III. (a.d. I36|-), and was 
 there bound apprentice to Robert de Bexeford, tailor, for a 
 term of eight years, and that he had suddenly left his master's 
 service, and was understood to be residing in their town ; 
 they are, therefore, desired to assist the said Robert to 
 recover possession of him, in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 12th March, 39 Edward III. (a.d. I36|-). French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor and 
 Bailiffs of the Town of Gloucestre on behalf of John Chichel, 
 homer, for his apprentice, dated 27th March, 39 Edward III. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 279. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Staunford (Stamford), in the County of " Nichole" (Lincoln). 
 
 Had been informed by Walter Corby, citizen of London, 
 
 * Perhaps in this case bell-founders, inasmuch as both the names of " Chap- 
 man " and " Russe " (or Rous) figure conspicuously in the list of London citizens 
 who "may have been" bell-founders, made by Mr. J. C. L. Stahlschmidt in his 
 recent publication of ' Surrey Bells and London Bell-founders,' London, 1884. 
 
134 
 
 that they had seized certain goods and chattels of his in 
 their parts, to wit, one bag, eleven kerchiefs of " Eipre,"* and 
 two pieces of " Bokerham,"t suspecting him to be disloyal 
 and of bad repute. Certify that it had been proved on oath 
 that the said Walter is a loyal man and of good repute, 
 and that the aforesaid goods are the property of the said 
 Walter and of none other, and desire them to restore the 
 same to him, in such manner as they would wish their folk 
 to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, 19th March, 39 Edward III. (a.d. 136I). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Bailiffs of 
 Kaxtone, in the county of Cambridge, on behalf of John 
 Stokyngbury, fishmonger, in respect of three horses in the 
 custody of Richard Chester, dated 27th March, 39 Ed- 
 ward III. Vide supra, pp. 130, 131. 
 
 280. The same to the Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of 
 
 Neuport, in Flanders. 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that John 
 
 Lovekyn, citizen of London, had appointed William de 
 
 Waleworth his attorney and proctor for receiving from Clays 
 
 ClewardJ and his friends or from their attorneys a certain sum 
 
 of money in which he stood bound to the said John by certain 
 
 contracts between them made. The impression of the seal 
 
 with which the said William will give acquittance to the said 
 
 Clays Cleward on behalf of the said John Lovekyn is herein 
 
 given in red wax. Would be found ready to carry out their 
 
 wishes as far as possible. God Almighty have them in his 
 
 keeping. 
 
 London, loth September, 39 Edward III. A.D. 1365. 
 
 French, 
 * Ypres in Flanders. 
 
 t Buckram, a coarse kind of cloth ; derivation uncertain, but probably con- 
 nected with the Middle High German boc, a he-goat. 
 J This name appears in Letter No. 212, supra. 
 
ROLL No. II. 
 
 Temp. JOHN LOVEKYN, anno 40 Edward III. 
 [A.D. 136I— f]. 
 
 II. 1. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Sheriffs of the City of London 
 to the Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Caleys 
 (Calais). 
 
 Informing them that about the Feast of St. Katherine 
 (25th November) last past, one William de Neuburgh came 
 before John de Brickelesworth, one of the Sheriffs of the City 
 of London, and brought a plea of trespass against one 
 Thomas atte Leghe, whereupon the said Thomas was 
 arrested. Terms having afterwards been arranged between 
 the parties, the said William acknowledged himself satis- 
 fied in the presence of the Sheriff, and allowed the said 
 Thomas to be set free and to be quit of the trespass. It 
 was now understood that he was prosecuting the said 
 Thomas in their town of Calais for the same trespass, 
 contrary to law and reason. They are, therefore, desired 
 to give credence to this testimony, and to prevent the said 
 Thomas from being injured, as they would like their wishes 
 to be respected in similar case. 
 
 London, 20th May, 40 Edward III. (a.d. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 2. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Coventre 
 (Coventry). 
 
 Desiring them to assist Richard Marchant, citizen of 
 London, and Agnes his wife, late wife of Henry Wolney of 
 
136 
 
 their town, to recover certain goods and chattels belonging to 
 the said Agnes, as appears by bill exhibited by the said 
 Richard, herein enclosed, which had been detained by Henry 
 Merynton, citizen of Coventry. The Holy Spirit have them 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 26th August, 40 Edward HI. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs of 
 the Town of Suthamtone (Southampton) on behalf of William 
 Mapel respecting non-payment of custom, with a certain 
 clause in the same letter, to wit, " whereas we commanded 
 you in another manner, to wit, in the time of Adam de Bury, 
 Mayor, in the 39th year (Edward HI.),"* dated the last day 
 of August, 40 (Edward HI. A.D. 1366). 
 
 Also of a letter sent to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the City of 
 Canterbury, in the county of Kent, on behalf of Robert 
 Hawkyn, weaver, concerning his runaway apprentice, dated 
 9th September, 40 (Edward HI. A.D. 1366). Latin. 
 
 II. 3. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that " Ortillus Frank van Nerynbergh," 
 goldsmith, having accidentally fallen down on Saturday 
 the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 
 (15th August), A.D. 1366, in an infirmity of frenzyf and 
 lost his senses, he had been removed in that state out of 
 the City by one Hanekyn Flemyng, who out of charity 
 undertook to convey him to his own country, in the hope 
 that he might recover his health, please God ; so that no evil 
 suspicion should fall on the said Hanekyn in respect of 
 the infirmity aforesaid. 
 
 London, i8th September, A.D. 1366. Latin. 
 
 * Vide supra, p. 133. 
 
 + " Infirmitate Frenesie": possibly what was once known as " the falling sick- 
 ness," or kind of epilepsy. 
 
137 
 
 II. 4. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Suthamptone 
 (Southampton). 
 
 William Mapel, citizen of London, had complained of 
 his merchandise having been seized for payment of custom, 
 contrary to the charters granted to the said City by the 
 ancestors of the lord the King, whereby its citizens are and 
 ought to be quit of all manner of custom throughout the King's 
 dominion. Remind them that twice before* had letters been 
 sent testifying that the said William was a freeman of 
 the City of London, and again especially desire them to 
 restore his merchandise, and to make good whatever damage 
 he had sustained ; in such manner as they would wish their 
 folk to be treated in like case or weightier. The Holy Spirit 
 have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 17th October, 40 Edward IIL (A.D. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 5. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 Est Jernemouthe (East Yarmouth). 
 
 Richard Fraunceys, fishmonger of the City of London, 
 had complained that on the i6th day of October, in 
 the thirty-ninth year of the reign of King Edward IIL, 
 he purchased from Simon Cook, of the town of "West 
 Jernemouthe," eight lasts of red herring for 29/. 6s. 8d. 
 sterling, price five and a half marks the last, the said Simon 
 giving a guarantee that the same was good and legal 
 merchandise ; and by reason that the said Richard was 
 ill and unable to be present when the same were to be 
 measured, and on the strength of the guarantee and in 
 the great confidence he placed in the said Simon, he left 
 them to be measured in his absence ; and the same 
 were found to be not good nor according to agreement, 
 to the great damage and loss of the said Richard. They 
 are, therefore, desired to assist the said Richard, the 
 * Vide supra, pp. 133, 136. 
 
138 
 
 bearer of these letters, and to examine the said Simon on 
 the matter, and to grant a remedy according to their good 
 discretion and the law merchant,* in such manner as they 
 would wish their fellow burgesses to be treated in like case 
 or weightier. 
 
 London, 7th October, 40 Edward III. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and 
 Good Folk of the Town of Lincoln on behalf of Thomas 
 Bonauntre, " tapicer,"t concerning Peter, son of William de 
 Leycestre, his runaway apprentice, &c., dated 24th October, 
 40 (Edward III.). 
 
 Also of a letter to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Oxford 
 on behalf of John Gedyngton, tailor, concerning Richard 
 de Bodenham, his runaway apprentice, &c., dated 28th 
 October, 40 (Edward III.). 
 
 Also of another letter sent to the Chancellor of the same, on 
 the same subject, same date. 
 
 Also of a letter to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of 
 Feversham, in the county of Kent, on behalf of Ralph de 
 Rothyng, girdler, concerning Richard Bakere, his apprentice, 
 &c., dated i8th November, 40 (Edward III.). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 6. [The same .?] to Monsieur John de Stokes, " Chivaler," Captain 
 of Seint Savours la Viscounte (St. Sauveur, Normandy), or 
 his Lieutenant. 
 
 William de Tudenham, citizen of London, had complained 
 that whereas he had recently sent one William Conteshale, 
 his apprentice, to the said town of " Seint Savours " with 
 goods and merchandise, wherewith to traffic there on his 
 behalf, the said goods, after the decease of the said William 
 Conteshale, had been seized and remained so seized, to the 
 
 * Vide supra, I. 266, note f. 
 
 t A maker of tapestry or carpets. 
 
139 
 
 great loss of the said William de Tudenham. It had been 
 clearly shown on oath that the said William Conteshale had 
 no share in the merchandise, which was the property of 
 William de Tudenham, as was well known among English 
 merchants. He is, therefore, desired to restore the same to 
 the said William de Tudenham or his attorney, the bearer 
 of these letters. The Holy Spirit have him ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, I2th November, 40 Edward HI. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 JOHN LOVEKYN, MAYOR, anno 40 and 41 Edward HI. 
 [A.D. \l6%—7\ 
 
 II, 7. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Oxeiiford 
 (Oxford). 
 
 Informing them that many good citizens of London 
 had certified upon oath that John de Botulphstone, dyer, 
 residing in their town of " Oxenford," was indebted to John 
 de Sewale, citizen of London and servant of John Lovekyn, 
 citizen of the same, in the sum of looj. sterling for mer- 
 chandise bought of him, and desiring them, therefore, to 
 cause him to satisfy the same, in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 
 London, nth January, 40 (Edward III. A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs 
 of the City of Wynchestre on behalf of Giles de Kelseye, 
 citizen and "tapicer" of the City of London, concerning 
 John, son of Adam Horn, of "North Kelleseye," in the 
 county of Lincoln, his runaway apprentice, dated 22nd 
 January, 40 (Edward III.). 
 
 Also of a similar letter to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk 
 of the Town of Suthamptone on the same subject, dated 
 22nd January, 40 (Edward III.). Latin. 
 
140 
 
 II. 8. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Caimtebrigge 
 (Cambridge). 
 
 Informing them that it had been shown, on the testimony 
 of many trustworthy citizens of London, that a light grey 
 horse with saddle and bridle and a chestnut horse with 
 saddle and bridle, which had been seized in their town for 
 one John Baudac, styling himself "the son of the King 
 of Judaea," who had hired them respectively from Simon 
 Walsshman and Hugh Snewe, citizens of London, belonged 
 to these two persons and to none other, and desiring them 
 to restore the horses to the said Simon and Hugh, the 
 bearers of these letters, in such manner as they would 
 wish their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. 
 The Holy Spirit have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 23rd January, 40 (Edward HL A.D. 136-^). 
 
 French. 
 Here follow the names of the witnesses. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 9. Letters patent of John Lovekyn, Mayor of the City of London, 
 under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Appointing John Sonday, Stephen Baret, and William 
 Prentys jointly and severally to collect and receive from 
 citizens for the cleansing of the high road called " le West- 
 watre gate," from Castle Baynard as far as the wall of the 
 Dean of St. Paul's, near the wall of the Preaching Friars,* to 
 wit, for every cart carrying timber, charcoal, stone, or water 
 along the aforesaid road by the week one penny, and for 
 every horse carrying packs along the said road by the week 
 one halfpenny, and for every " croudwayn "f carrying entrails 
 from St. Nicholas's Shambles along the same by the week 
 one farthing, with power to distrain for the same on those 
 
 * Blackfriars. 
 
 t A cart with wheels ; a crowd-barrow = a wheelbarrow. Vide Halliwell's 
 'Arch. Diet.' 
 
141 
 
 unwilling to pay, by view of John de Podenhale, Gilbert Koo, 
 and John de Asshehurst, up to the Feast of the Apostles 
 SS. Simon and Jude (28th October). 
 
 London, 7th February, 41 Edward III. (a.d. I36f). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 10. John Lovekyn, Mayor of the City of London, to the Very 
 Reverend Father in God, Simon (Langham), Archbishop of 
 Canterbury and Chancellor of England. 
 
 Notifying that — in obedience to his commands given at 
 Westminster that inquiry should be made into the matter of 
 certain goods and chattels lately seized in the City of London 
 by Reynald, the King's searcher, upon the person of one 
 John Mot de Fobbyngge, on board the ship [of] Heigne Van 
 Dumburgh, by reason of a suspicious letter found upon the 
 said Heigne — he (the Mayor) had, on Friday next after the 
 Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul (25th January) last past, 
 caused divers merchants and others to come before him in 
 the Guildhall, who declared on oath, in the presence of the 
 said Reynald, that the goods and chattels so seized were the 
 property of the said John Mot and of none other, and that 
 if they had perished at sea the said John Mot would have 
 been the loser, and that no other person was interested to 
 the extent of a penny nor a halfpenny in the said goods and 
 chattels save him alone ; to all of which he is asked to give 
 credence. God Almighty have him ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, ist February, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 136-^). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 11. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Testifying that they had heard from Adam Fraunceys, 
 citizen of London, that a ship whereof Laurence Pierssone 
 was master, and belonging to the said Adam and Laurence, 
 had been seized by the water-bailiff at " Lesclus " (Sluys) 
 by reason of the supposed bastardy of John de Bartone> 
 
142 
 
 deceased, late servant of the said Adam ; and certifying 
 that it had been proved on the oath of the said Adam and 
 of good and trustworthy men that the said John de Bartone 
 had no share in the said ship, which had always belonged to 
 the said Adam and Laurence for profit or loss. And further, 
 as to the supposed bastardy of the said John de Bartone, 
 it had been sufficiently proved that he had been born in 
 wedlock, and that his father and mother were still alive. 
 Request, therefore, all lords, judges, bailiffs, and other 
 officers to give credence to this testimony, to the end that 
 the said ship may be delivered up, as law and reason 
 demand. 
 
 London, 3rd February, A.D. 1366 [136^]. French. 
 
 II. 12. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to Sir 
 Eustace Dabregescourt,* Knt. 
 
 Ralph Prot, fishmonger of the City of London and 
 executor of the will of Richard Triple, late fishmonger of the 
 same, had complained of having been prosecuted by divers 
 folk to whom the said Richard was indebted, to the great 
 impoverishment of the estate of the said Ralph, and had 
 produced a bond whereby he (Sir Eustace) was found to be 
 indebted to the said Richard in the sum of 1,580 motoicns dor\ 
 of French money. He is, therefore, especially desired to 
 pay the same to the said Ralph or his attorney, the bearer 
 of these letters, in order that he may be able to discharge 
 the debts of the said Richard, in accordance with his last 
 will, and not be himself grievously harmed. 
 
 London, Sth February, 41 Edward IH. (A.D. 1364). 
 
 French. 
 
 * D'Abrichescourt. Much engaged in the French wars ; taken prisoner at 
 Poitiers, and rescued by his own men ; was afterwards taken prisoner on two 
 separate occasions, and died at Carantan, in Lower Normandy, in the year 1370. 
 Longman's ' Life and Times of Edward IIL,' vol. i. pp. 389, 391 ; Buchon's ' Frois- 
 sart,' vol. i. p. 624. 
 
 t Vide srtpra, \. 201, note §. 
 
143 
 
 LETTERS temp. JOHN LOVEKYN, MAYOR, 41 Edward III. 
 
 [A.D. i36f— 7]. 
 
 11. 13. Letters patent of John Lovekyn, Mayor, the Aldermen, and 
 Commonalty of the City of London, under the common seal 
 of the said City. 
 
 Notifying that John de Blakeneye, citizen and fishmonger, 
 had freighted a certain vessel at " Est Jernemouthe " 
 (East Yarmouth) called " le Godeyere de Lubek," Arnold 
 " van The Thorne," of " Lubek," being master, with red herring 
 and other merchandise to the value of 200/., and other 
 merchants of the same town had shipped on board the same 
 vessel red herring and other merchandise to the value of 300/. 
 sterling, to be conveyed, with God's help, to the towns of 
 Bordeaux or Bayonne, to make profit of the same for the said 
 John de Blakeneye and the other merchants according as God 
 might dispose. On the showing of the said John de Blake- 
 neye, the said Arnold " van The Thorne " had carried the 
 said ship and merchandise to Friesland, within the domain 
 and power of the Duke of Holland, against his own wish 
 and the wish of the other merchants, and to their great loss. 
 Desire all persons, therefore, as a matter of courtesy and 
 charity, to assist the said John de Blakeneye and the other 
 merchants of " Est Jernemouthe " to recover their mer- 
 chandise or. its value against the aforesaid Arnold " van The 
 Thorne " and his companions, as the law merchant* and the 
 common law require. 
 
 London, 13th February, 41 Edward IIL A.D. 1367 {sic). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Bailiffs and Constables of 
 the Liberties of the Town of Croydon on behalf of William 
 Lychefeld, " pouchemakere," and John Chalfhurst, son of 
 William Chalfhurst, his apprentice, dated i8th February, 
 41 Edward HL (a.D. 1364). Latin. 
 
 * Vide supra, I. 266, note f. 
 
144 
 
 II. 14. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Notifying that on the 28th day of November, A.D. 1365, 
 Robert Girdeler, citizen of London, and one Gerard Pitteman 
 de Harderwyk entered into the following agreement, to 
 wit, that the said Gerard should send to the said Robert 
 in the City of London divers cables and cords, for 
 which the said Robert should pay at the rate of 12s. for 
 every hundred pounds of cables and cords, provided that 
 when brought to London they satisfied the said Robert, 
 and not otherwise; that on the 12th September last past 
 the said Gerard sent by his agent John Squier, to the house 
 of John de Wyrehale, water-bailiff of the Thames and host to 
 the aforesaid Gerard (sic), eight cables and seven cords called 
 "Hauusers," weighing in all 7,166 pounds, which did not please 
 the said Robert, at the price aforesaid ; that afterwards 
 Reginald de Ferrers, the King's Sergeant-at-Arms, and Sir 
 Robert de Crull, Clerk of the King's Navy, came to the house 
 of the said John de Wyrehale and covenanted with the afore- 
 said John Squier to buy the said cables and cords, for which 
 they paid in gold nobles of English money, in all to the 
 amount of 35/. i6s. 2d. Desire all persons to give credence 
 to these letters, that neither the aforesaid Robert nor his 
 attorney, nor his merchandise, might be arrested, impleaded, 
 or annoyed by cause of the agreement aforesaid. 
 
 London, 26th February, 41 Edward III. A.D. 1366. 
 
 Laim. 
 
 II. 15. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Burgomasters, Echevins, and Council of the Town of 
 Lesclus (Sluys). 
 
 Certifying that one Jacob Colne and Anne his wife 
 had personally appeared before the writers, and that the 
 said Anne had declared her free will to be that the said 
 Jacob, her husband, should put up for sale all the lands, 
 rents, tenements, goods, and chattels which he possessed in 
 
145 
 
 the said town of "Lesclus" by the decease of Elizabeth 
 Lanyns, her cousin ; for which purpose the said Anne had 
 given him full authority, inasmuch as she was so grosse 
 etizeynte that she could not herself travel to their country 
 without imperilling her life. Desire them to give credence 
 to this testimony, in such manner as they themselves would 
 wish their letters to be respected in like case or weightier. 
 The Holy Spirit have them ever in his keeping; 
 
 London, 24th February, 41 Edward III. (a.d. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 A note that this letter was granted to the said Jacob and Anne his 
 wife in full Husting held on Monday, the Feast of St. Peter 
 in Cathedra (22nd February), 41 (Edward III.). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 16. The same to Master Roger de Fretone. 
 
 Had heard on good authority that the simple and poor 
 hospital of "Bedlem"* without Bishopsgate, in the suburb 
 of the City of London, founded by their ancestors in honour 
 of the glorious Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, God 
 Almighty, was about to be let to farm by the Bishop of 
 " Bedlem,"f to the great injury and prejudice of the said hos- 
 pital and of the said City, inasmuch as the master and the 
 brethren living within the same were men of good repute, and 
 had commenced a great work of a chapel there, which work 
 
 * Or Bethlehem. Founded, in 1246, by Simon Fitz Mary, one of the Sheriffs 
 of London, to be a priory of canons, with brethren and sisters, and especially to 
 receive the Bishop of Bethlehem, canons, brothers, and messengers of the church 
 of Bethlehem, as often as they had occasion to travel to London. A church 
 or oratory was to be built, to pertain evermore to the Bishop of Bethlehem and 
 his successors. Vide copy of deed of gift to Bethlehem or "Bedlem" by Simon 
 Fitz Mary, set out in Strype's Stow's ' Survey,' book ii. pp. 94, 95. At the request 
 of John Mathei, called " de Norton," master of the house and order of the 
 Military Brethren of St. Mary of Bethlehem, within the City of London, without 
 Bishopsgate, and the brethren of the same, the said house and order were taken 
 under the protection and patronage of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 London in 1346. City Records, Letter Book F, fol. 128 b. 
 
 t A bishop without any see in England, but m partibus injidelium. 
 
 L 
 
146 
 
 they would be unable to accomplish and to cany out success- 
 fully without the charitable assistance of the Mayor and 
 Aldermen and other good folk of the said City ; and more- 
 over many were daily withdrawing their charity from the 
 hospital by reason aforesaid. Desire him, therefore, to counsel 
 the said bishop that the hospital be not let to farm without 
 the common assent of the City. God Almighty have him in 
 his keeping. 
 
 London, loth March, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 1366). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 17. The same to the Very Reverend and Much Honoured Father 
 in God the Bishop of " Bedlem " (Bethlehem). 
 
 On the same subject as the preceding letter ; begging him 
 not to let to farm the hospital of "Bedlem," which would result 
 in great dishonour to himself and in the destruction of the 
 hospital. 
 
 London, 9th March, 41 Edward III. A.D. 1366. 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 18. The same to the Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Caleys 
 (Calais). 
 
 Henry Hangard, merchant of " Amyens " and general 
 attorney of " Sire Johan Seuffuscien,"* Peter de Croy, and 
 Peter Talmars, burgesses of the said city of " Amyens," by 
 warrant of the common seal of the said city, had, according 
 to the testimony of the Sheriffs of London, entered into a 
 bargain with John Pykenham, citizen of London, in the town 
 of " Gloucestre," and had purchased from him 200 pieces of 
 woollen cloth of divers colours for 1,200/. sterling, whereupon 
 each piece of cloth had been sealed with the seal of the said 
 Henry, and a rebate of 520/. sterling allowed as owing by the 
 said John Pykenham to the said merchants of Amiens, for 
 which an acquittance had been given to him under the 
 seal of the said Henry ; and for the balance, amounting to 
 * In the next letter spelt " Seuffusicyen." 
 
147 
 
 S8o/. (sic) sterling* the said Henry was to give him or his at- 
 torney in London its equivalent in woad. This bargain had been 
 made known to the writers by letter under the common seal 
 of the town of " Gloucestre," and the said Henry had bound 
 himself and his said masters, the merchants of " Amyens," to 
 carry it out. The cloth was ready to be delivered in London 
 according to agreement, but neither the said Henry nor his 
 goods nor any of the goods of his masters aforesaid were to 
 be found. Desire them, therefore, to assist the said John 
 Pykenham in their country, that he might obtain payment if 
 the said Henry or any one of the said merchants or any of their 
 goods should be discovered to be within their jurisdiction, in 
 such manner as they would wish to be treated in like case or 
 weightier. God Almighty have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 9th March, 41 Edward III. A.D. 1366. 
 
 Fi^enc/z. 
 
 II. 19. The same to the Mayor and Echevins of the City of 
 
 Amyens (Amiens). 
 
 A similar letter on the same subject. 
 
 London, 12th March, 41 Edward III. A.D. 1366. 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 20. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Towns of 
 Great Jermuthe (Yarmouth) and Kyrkele (Kirkley, co. 
 Suffolk). 
 
 John de Blakeneye, citizen of London, had complained 
 that whereas on the Feast of St. Katherine (25th November), 
 in the fortieth year of the reign of King Edward III. (A.D. 1366), 
 he had entered into an agreement with one Peter atte Dale 
 of Great Yarmouth, whereby the said Peter undertook, with 
 God's help, to convey safely to Bayonne or Bordeaux forty- 
 one lasts of red herring belonging to the said John and to 
 Richard Mos of Yarmouth, whereof twenty and a half lasts 
 belonged to the said John, who had delivered the same to the 
 * The correct sum of .£680 is mentioned in the next letter. 
 
 L 2 
 
148 
 
 said Peter, paying the freight of i y. a last to Bayonne and 
 9^. a last to Bordeaux :* the seamen on board the vessel had 
 carried the same to Friesland, contrary to agreement, to the 
 great injury of the said John de Blakeneye. They are, there- 
 fore, especially desired to compel the said Peter, by every 
 legal method, to restore the said merchandise to the said 
 John, or to pay him its value, together with damages for the 
 loss incurred by the default, as the law merchant and the 
 common law demand ; in such manner as they would wish 
 their folk to be treated in like case or weightier. God 
 Almighty have them ever in his keeping and increase their 
 honours. 
 
 London, ist April, 41 (Edward III. A.D. 1367). 
 
 F7-eiic/i. 
 
 II. 21. Power of attorney of William Waryn, citizen and draper 
 of London, son (sic) and heir of William Waryn, late citizen 
 and mercer of the same, who lately died at " Caleys," 
 appointing John de Hethyngham, citizen and mercer of 
 London, to recover in his name from Walter atte Bothe, a 
 merchant of Scotland, all and singular debts which the said 
 Walter ever owed to his aforesaid brother William. And 
 forasmuch as his seal is unknown to many, he has caused 
 the seal of the Mayoralty of the City of London to be 
 affixed to these presents. 
 
 London, 27th April, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 1367). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 22. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of Bruges, in 
 Flanders. 
 
 Desiring them to assist, according to law and reason, 
 the above John de " Hidingham," who is prosecuting Walter 
 atte Bothe, a merchant of Scotland, in the name of William 
 Waryn, citizen of London, brother and heir of William 
 
 ♦ This seems to be the meaning- of an obscure passage. 
 
149 
 
 Waryn, who lately died at " Caleys," as by power of attorney 
 sealed with the seal of the Mayoralty as well as the seal 
 of the said William more plainly appears. God Almighty 
 have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 27th April, 41 Edward III. A.D. 1367. 
 
 French. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Constable and Good 
 Folk of the Town of Caustone, in the county of Norfolk, on 
 behalf of Walter Eweyn, citizen of London, concerning 
 Giles Julian, son of John Julia[n], his runaway apprentice, 
 dated 17th April, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 1367). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 IT!. 23. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town 
 of Suthamptone (Southampton). 
 
 Reminding them that they had already thrice* been 
 written to concerning the distress they had taken from 
 William Mapel, who was a freeman of the City of London, 
 and therefore quit of all manner of custom throughout the 
 King's dominion, and desiring them to cease from such 
 outrageous annoyances in future, and to restore the distress 
 they had already so taken, in such manner as they would 
 themselves wish to be treated in like case or weightier ; or 
 to certify the reason why they have so grievously distressed 
 the said William, contrary to the liberties aforesaid. 
 
 London, 7th April, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 24. Letters patent of John Lovekyn, Mayor, and the Aldermen 
 of the City of London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that John Romayns, of the ward of Castle 
 Baynard, had been shown on trustworthy evidence to be 
 the son and heir of William Romayns and of Juliana his 
 
 * Vide supra, II. 4, 
 
ISO 
 
 wife, of the same ward, lately deceased, and to have been 
 born in lawful wedlock ; and that this had been confirmed 
 by popular report in the said ward, and throughout the 
 City and neighbouring places. 
 
 Chamber of the Guildhall, 25th May, 41 Edward III. 
 A.D. 1367. Latin. 
 
 II. 25. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Calcys (Calais). 
 
 Testifying that John Sexteyn, of " Fawkenham " (Fawk- 
 ham), in the county of Kent, and John, son of Ralph Ketle, 
 of the same place, had been bound apprentices to Alexander 
 Wynter, citizen of London and "hurer,"* as by indentures 
 enrolled more plainly appears ; and that the said apprentices 
 had run away, and were understood to be living in their 
 town of " Caleys." They are, therefore, desired to assist the 
 said Alexander to recover them, in such manner as they would 
 themselves wish to be treated in like case or weightier. The 
 Holy Spirit have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 26th May, 41 Edward IIL (A.D. 1367). 
 
 FrcncJi. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor and Bailiffs 
 and Good Folk of the Town of Bristiiyt (Bristol) on behalf 
 of John de Bathe, " webbe,"-f- concerning John, son of John 
 le Brewere, his runaway apprentice, dated 29th May, 
 41 (Edward IIL). 
 
 Also of one to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the City of 
 Canterhiry on behalf of John Clerk, concerning non-payment 
 of custom, dated 5th June, 41 Edward (IIL). 
 
 And of another sent to the Bailiffs, Constables, and Good 
 Folk of the Town of Stanyng (Stenning), in the county of 
 Sussex, on behalf of Adam Fermer, " botiler," concerning 
 John Thecchere, his runaway apprentice, dated 22nd June, 
 41 Edward III. Latin. 
 
 * Vide, supra, I. 77, note. + Weaver. 
 
151 
 
 11. 26. John Lovekyn, Mayor of the City of London, to John 
 Daldeby,* Prior of the Hospital Church of St. John the 
 Baptist of Clerkenwell, near London, of exempt jurisdiction. 
 
 Humbly praying that it might please him to admit 
 Richard Grafton, chaplain, to the perpetual chantry estab- 
 lished therein by Sir William de Langeford, Knt, at the 
 altar of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist, now vacant, the 
 presentation or donation to which had fallen to the said 
 Mayor. The Most Highest preserve him. 
 
 Guildhall, London, 15th July, 41 Edward HI. (a.d. 1367). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 27. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the City of Canterbris 
 (Canterbury). 
 
 Informing them that it had been shown on trustworthy 
 evidence that one Henry Sprag, who had been arrested in 
 their town, together with his goods and chattels, on suspicion, 
 was a man of good repute and conversation, and had 
 frequently before now brought divers merchandise from 
 citizens of London. Desire them, therefore, to restore to 
 him his goods and chattels and to do him no harm, in 
 such manner as they would wish their requests to be 
 respected in like case or weightier. God Almighty have 
 them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 20th July, 41 Edward HI. (a.d. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 * According to Newcourt (' Repertorium,' vol. i. p. 669), John " Paveley " 
 was prior from 1355 to 1371. The church was dedicated in 1185 by Heraclius, 
 Patriarch of Jerusalem, who was in England at the time preaching a crusade. The 
 house or priory was the chief seat in England of the religious Knights Hospitallers 
 of St. John of Jerusalem, and possessed great wealth. It was burnt down in 138 1 
 by the Kentish rebels, but was afterwards rebuilt, the church being finished by 
 Thomas Docwra, ^rior, temp. Henry VII. It is said that the lord prior was 
 reckoned the premier baron of England. Vide Loftie's ' Hist, of London,' vol. ii. 
 p. 176. 
 
152 
 
 II. 28. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of Wilgrip' 
 
 ( )■ 
 
 Certifying that on Thursday next before the Feast of 
 
 St. Margaret (20th July), in the forty - first year of the 
 
 reign of King Edward III. (a.D. 1367), John Heurer, master 
 
 of the ship called "Alice of London," had arrived at the 
 
 port of London called " Quenehete,"* and there discharged 
 
 a cargo of 1,300 salt fish, to which testimony they are 
 
 asked to give credence for love's sake. 
 
 London, Monday, the vigil of St. Margaret (20th July), 
 
 41 Edward III. (a.D. 1367). French. 
 
 II. 29. The same to John atte Lee, Steward of the Lord the 
 King. 
 
 Certifying that in respect of a large sum of money 
 alleged to be due to one John Bere, carpenter, by William 
 Neuport, fishmonger of London, the said William had 
 been examined, and had declared that he owed nothing 
 to the said John ; but that he was willing, out of reverence 
 for his lordship, to appear, together with the said John, 
 before him, or those whom he should be pleased to appoint, 
 in order that both parties might be heard, and that he 
 was prepared to do what was reasonable, praying his good 
 lordship to consider him guiltless of the charge aforesaid 
 until default in him should be proved. 
 
 London, i8th August, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 
 * Queenhithe ; one of the oldest, as also one of the most frequented docks 
 in the port of London, rivalling in early days, if not surpassing, Billingsgate in 
 the number of vessels charging and discharging there. By the feudal law all 
 navigable rivers and havens were computed among the regalia; and the king, 
 by virtue of his prerogative, assigned particular spots to be used as ports, and 
 compelled vessels to put in there, to the exclusion of other places. This hithe 
 or quay is said to have been granted by King John to Eleanor, wife of Henry II., 
 and so came to be called Ripa RegincE, the Queen's Bank or Queen's Hithe ; but 
 it is more probable that it had its name originally from "quern," i. e., corn which 
 was landed there, since we find the church now known as St. Michael Queenhithe 
 to have been sometimes called St. Michael de " Cornhith." Vide Newcourt's 
 
153 
 
 II. 30. Letters patent of John Lovekyn, Mayor, and the Aldermen 
 of the City of London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that William Mapel is a free citizen of the City 
 of London, bearing scot and lot and other duties appertaining 
 to a free citizen of the same, as in charters and privileges 
 by the King* then reigning and by his predecessors granted 
 to the citizens of the said City, and remaining in the custody 
 of the writers, is more fully contained. In which charters, 
 among other things, it is contained that the citizens of the 
 said City shall be free and quit of all manner of customs 
 and tolls throughout the King's dominion, as well on this 
 side of the sea as beyond. All and singular persons, therefore, 
 are asked to allow the said William and his servants to pass, 
 with their goods and merchandise, without any demand 
 being made for custom or toll. 
 
 London, i8th August, 41 Edward III. (a.d. 1367). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 3L Similar letters patent on behalf of William de Brickies, 
 merchant and free citizen of the City of London. 
 
 London; i6th August, 41 Edward III. A.D. 1367. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 32. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Caleys (Calais). 
 
 Certifying that Thomas, son of William Credil, had been 
 bound apprentice to Thomas atte Nokette, citizen and draper 
 of London, for a term of twelve years, and had suddenly 
 left his master's service, and was understood to be residing 
 in their town; and desiring them to assist the said Thomas 
 atte Nokette, or his attorney, the bearer of these letters, to 
 
 ' Repertorium,' vol. i. p. 487. It afterwards came into the possession of Richard, 
 Earl of Cornwall, brother of Henry III., and was let to farm by him to the Mayor 
 and Commonalty of the City of London for 50/. a year, and 6oj. to be paid 
 to the infirm of St. Giles's without London. Kerr's Blackstone's ' Comment.,' 
 vol. i. pp. 233-4 ; City Records, ' Liber de Antiquis,' fol. 66 b. 
 
 * Inspeximus Charter, dated 26th May, auno 15 Edward III. 
 
154 
 
 recover possession of his said apprentice, in such manner as 
 they would wish their request to be respected in like case 
 or weightier. God Almighty have them ever in his keeping. 
 London, 28th August, 41 Edward III. (a.d. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 33. The same to the Bailiffs, Constables, and Good Folk of the 
 Town o{ Alton, in the County of " Hampton " (Hants). 
 
 Many trustworthy citizens of London had testified that 
 a black horse and a grey horse, which had been seized in 
 their town of Alton in the possession of John Patrik, servant 
 of John Hardy, citizen of London, on suspicion, belonged to 
 Ode Pascolf, of Tregony, and to no other person ; and further 
 that the said John Patrik obtained possession of them with 
 his consent, and was a good man and loyal. Desire them, 
 therefore, to give up the said horses to the said John Patrik, 
 the bearer of these letters, and to none other, in such manner 
 as they would wish their letters and requests to be respected 
 in like case or weightier. God Almighty have them ever 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 13th October, 41 Edward HL (A.D. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II, 34. Letters patent of James Andrew, Mayor, the Aldermen, and 
 Commonalty of the City of London, under the Common 
 Seal. 
 
 Notifying that a certain Gilbert Maghfeld, attorney of 
 Richard de Euere, merchant of London, had freighted a 
 ship at "Dansyk in Prucia,"* called "la Paschedache,"t 
 
 * Dantzic. 
 
 t The meaning of this is not clear ; perhaps it=" Easterday." The scribe 
 got confused, for here he has inserted a " de " between " la Paschedache " and 
 " Michaele Vandewale," and in the next letter the name of the ship appears 
 as "le Michel Vande Wale" (which is, however, corrected in the next line), and 
 " a la Paschedache" is the reading, which seems to denote the time of freighting. 
 
155 
 
 Michael Vandewale being master, with divers merchandise 
 to the value of loo/. sterling, to be carried to the said 
 City of London, as by charter party between them made 
 more evidently appears. The said Michael, however, had 
 maliciously carried the said ship and merchandise to 
 Scotland, against the wish of the said Gilbert, and to the 
 great damage of his master's estate. All and singular 
 persons, therefore, are asked to assist the said Gilbert to 
 recover the said merchandise or its value from the said 
 Michael and his associates on board the said vessel, as the 
 law merchant and the common law require, and as they 
 would wish their merchants to be treated in like case or 
 weightier when transacting business in London. 
 
 London, 4th November, A.D. 1 367. Latin. 
 
 A note of a letter having been sent to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and 
 Good Folk of the Town of Bedeford, testifying that Simon 
 atte [Stratjford, " glovere," owed Stephen King, " girdeler," 
 40J., and John Sturgeon, " pouchemakere," 235-., dated 2nd 
 September, 41 Edward III. (A.D. 1367). Names of witnesses 
 to the above. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 35. The Mayor and Aldermen and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Mayor, Aldermen, Burgesses, and Good Folk 
 of the Town of Edenburgh. 
 
 On the same subject. It was understood that the above 
 Michael had sailed to the port of " Lythe " (Leith), and 
 afterwards had gone to their town of " Edenburgh," and had 
 there sold the merchandise mentioned above to good men 
 of their town. Desire them, therefore, to assist the aforesaid 
 Richard de Euere to recover the same or its value, in such 
 manner as they would wish to be treated in like case 
 or weightier. God Almighty have them ever in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 3rd November, A.D. 1367. French. 
 
156 
 
 II. 36. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of Great Jernemouthe 
 (Yarmouth). 
 
 John Longeneye, citizen and fishmonger of London, 
 executor of the will of Stephen de Gloucester, late fishmonger 
 of the same, had acknowledged before the writers that the 
 said Stephen, when alive, was indebted to Bartholomew 
 Nogan, of the town of Great Yarmouth, in the sum of 
 1 8/. 6s. %d. sterling for merchandise bought of him at divers 
 times ; for which sum the said John Longeneye would be 
 compelled to give satisfaction to the said Bartholomew, if he 
 brought his suit against him before the goods of the testator 
 were fully administered. They are desired, therefore, for love's 
 sake not to seize the merchandise of John de Blakeneye, 
 citizen of London, for the debt aforesaid, inasmuch as he 
 never was indebted to the said Bartholomew, according to 
 information received from the said John Longeneye. The 
 Holy Spirit have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 9th November, 41 (Edward IIL A.D. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 37. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the City of 
 Salesbirs (Salisbury). 
 
 Informing them that John de Leye (?)* had suddenly left 
 the service of William Comberton, citizen of London, with 
 whom he ought to have remained for a term of one year, 
 and was understood to be living in their city of " Salesbirs"; 
 and desiring them to assist the said William to recover 
 possession of him, in such manner as they would wish their 
 requests to be respected in like case or weightier. The Holy 
 Spirit have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 13th November, 41 (Edward HL A.D. 1367). 
 
 French. 
 
 * Some portion of this letter has been destroyed ; apparently the effect of 
 damp. 
 
157 
 
 LETTERS SENT temp. SIMON DE MORDON, MAYOR, 
 «««!? 43 [Edward III. A.D. 1368 — 9]. 
 
 II. 38. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of 
 London, under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that it had been proved in full Husting, by 
 Geffrey,* the parson of the church of St. Margaret in Friday 
 Street, William Sprynget, Stephen Grigge, John Kent, cord- 
 wainer, William Dru, and William Coton, good folk of the 
 said City, that Dame Maude Lercedekene, the particulars of 
 whose decease had given rise to dispute in the county of 
 Devon, had died in the said parish of St. Margaret about 
 midnightf next following the Feast of St. Giles (ist Sep- 
 tember) last past. 
 
 London, 23rd November, s.a. French. 
 
 II. 39. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Notyngham 
 (Nottingham). 
 
 Certifying that it had been proved on oath that Alice, 
 the wife of John Bole, " upholdere,"J citizen of London, is 
 daughter and heir of Thomas de Lynton, of " Notyngham," 
 and of Alice his wife, whose marriage was celebrated in the 
 church of St. Swithin, Candlewick Street ; and desiring them 
 to assist the said John Bole and Alice his wife to recover 
 what rightly belongs to them. 
 
 London, 21st March, 43 Edward III. (A.D. 1365). 
 
 French. 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 40. Letters patent of the same under the seal of the Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that whereas John Pykenham the younger, 
 
 * Geffrey le Spenser is mentioned by Newcourt as being parson of this 
 church in 1352. ' Repertorium,' vol. i. p. 403. 
 
 t En la quarf demy noel. X Upholsterer. 
 
158 
 
 merchant of London, should have delivered at London 
 23 tuns of woad, such as Elys de Claye and John Quycham 
 have at the town of Newcastle upon Tyne, for which they 
 were to pay the said John Pykenham 160 livres at the Ides 
 on this side of the coming Easter, and 260 livres by three 
 equal instalments in the year following, as by indenture 
 between them made is more fully contained ; the said Elys 
 and John had come to London, and had there waited eight 
 days for the delivery of the said woad, so as to fulfil their part 
 of the contract, and had frequently applied for the same 
 at the house of the said John Pykenham, as had been 
 clearly proved. This certificate is, therefore, made at their 
 request. 
 
 London, 23rd March, s.a. French. 
 
 II. 41. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to John 
 de Ayllesbury, Sheriff of Bedford and Buckingham. 
 
 Desiring him to assist John Walraven, " chapeler "* of 
 London, to recover possession of Geffrey Masselyn, son of 
 John Masselyn, of " Trilleghe " (Thurleigh), in the county of 
 Bedford, his apprentice, bound to him for a term of eight 
 years, who had run away without permission, and was 
 now understood to be residing at " Thrylleghe " in his 
 bailiwick. 
 
 London, 24th March, 43 Edward III. (a.d. I36f). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 42. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 Jernemuthe (Yarmouth). 
 
 Richard de Preston, citizen of London, had complained 
 that whereas he had a ship called " the Thomas " of 
 London, laden with divers merchandise for Bordeaux, 
 there had come John Aleyn, master of a ship belonging 
 to Bartholomew Nogan, of Yarmouth, who had maliciously 
 * Cap-maker. 
 
159 
 
 run it down at " Conkettesnasse,"* in Brittany, in order to 
 sink it, and had caused it so much damage that it could 
 not serve for another voyage, to the loss to the said Richard 
 of 400 livres, as could be truly proved. A small sum of money 
 had been offered by the said Bartholomew for his trespass, 
 but not equal to the loss sustained by the said Richard. 
 They are, therefore, desired to cause justice to be done, 
 inasmuch as the said Richard had lost his voyages for the 
 last year and the present year, and moreover the longer his 
 ship lay unrepaired, the greater compensation would have 
 to be paid by the said Bartholomew. Request them to 
 cause an early reply to be sent. 
 
 London, 28th November, s.a. French. 
 
 [The following words are here inserted : " Consimilis litera come 
 autrefoitz," probably referring to Letter No. 47, infra?^ 
 
 11. 43. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 M ayor of Nouel Chastel (Newcastle) on Tyne. 
 
 Henry Brod, citizen and skinner of London, had com- 
 plained that whereas Nicholas Brod, his son, being servant 
 to one John Touyle, of London, had gone with his master 
 to Newcastle, where his master had purchased certain goods 
 of William de Acton, at that time Mayor of the town, for 
 which he had given a bond for 88 marks ; the said 
 Nicholas had, at his master's request, taken and carried 
 the same to London, where he had been engaged by Alice, 
 wife of Aleyn de Carlille, of Cornhill, to go to "Escote" 
 (Scotland). On his returning thence the said William 
 de Acton had caused him to be arrested near Newcastle, 
 and thrown into prison for the payment of the sum 
 aforesaid, although he had been no party to the contract 
 entered into by the aforesaid John. He is, therefore, desired 
 to cause him to be released from prison, if it was for 
 this cause that he had been confined for ten weeks or more, 
 
 * Le Conqugt, a seaport in Brittany, near Brest. 
 
i6o 
 
 as was understood, contrary to law and reason ; and if for 
 any other cause, he is to let them know as soon as possible 
 the nature of it. 
 
 London, 15th November, s.a. French. 
 
 II. 44. Letters patent (of the same), under the seal of the 
 Mayoralty. 
 
 Certifying that Margaret, widow of Robert Leget, John 
 Southam, Nicholas Godessone, and Adam Craft, executors 
 of the will of the said Robert, had appointed John Fraunceys 
 to be their attorney to recover from Jacob Mey, of " Brugys " 
 (Bruges), all debts owing to the said Robert. 
 
 No date. FrencJi. 
 
 II. 45. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor, Bailiffs, and Good Folk of the Town of Sarcsbris 
 (Salisbury). 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty the enrolment 
 of a deed* whereby Henry Chark and Edith his wife, widow 
 of William Nyweman, tanner, granted to Hugh Stalbrugge 
 a messuage in " le Endelerstrete " in the city of New Sarum, 
 to have and to hold to the said Hugh, his heirs and assigns, 
 for ever, as in the said deed more fully is contained. 
 
 London, i6th April, 43 Edward HL (a.d. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 Temp. SIMON DE MORDON, MAYOR, 43 [Edward HL 
 A.D. 1368 — 9], continued. 
 
 II. 46. James Andrew, Mayor of the City of London, to the 
 Burgomasters and Echevins of the Town of Brugges (Bruges). 
 Had been informed by Agnes and Alice, orphans, 
 daughters of Geffrey Boner, " paternostrer,"| late citizen of 
 London, that an action had been commenced against them 
 by Isabel, their sister, another daughter of the same, to 
 
 * Hust. Roll No. 97 (33). 
 
 t Maker oi paiL'rnoslcrs or rosaries. 
 
i6i 
 
 recover her share of the tenements possessed by their late 
 father in the town of Bruges, to the great prejudice of the 
 said Agnes and Alice, inasmuch as the said Isabel had 
 already been advanced by her said father and Elena his wife 
 on her marriage, and these tenements, therefore, ought to 
 remain to the said Agnes and Alice, according to the laws 
 and customs* of the town of Bruges, as was understood. 
 Certifies, at the request of the said Agnes and Alice, that 
 inquiry had been made upon oath of good men of the City 
 of London cognisant of the matter, who had declared that 
 the said Geffrey had three daughters, to wit, the aforesaid 
 Isabel, Agnes, and Alice, and that in order to marry the 
 said Isabel befittingly the said Geffrey had bought the ward 
 and marriage of one John Hockele, who had lands and 
 tenements in the City of London to the value of i6 marks 
 by the year, from one Thomas, of London, clerk, for which he 
 had paid 40 marks and a "hanape" of " maser," worth 13J. 4^., 
 the said Isabel being at that time about sixteen years of 
 age ; that the said John and Isabel were married, and the 
 said Geffrey and Elena had given them goods and chattels 
 to the value of 9 livres, together with the rent of the aforesaid 
 lands and tenements; that thus was the said Isabel advanced. 
 Desires them, therefore, to see justice done to the said 
 Agnes and Alice in the matter, according to their laws and 
 customs, in such manner as they would wish their requests 
 to be respected in like case or weightier. The Holy Spirit 
 have them ever in His keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 * A similar custom prevailed in the City of London, namely, that if a father 
 advanced any of his children with a part of his goods, that child was barred 
 against demanding any further portion of the father's customary estate at his 
 decease, unless the father had expressed by writing under his hand or by his 
 last will that such advancement was only in ^art, in which case the child so 
 partly advanced could claim a further share after bringing the money already 
 received into hotchpot. Bohun's ' Privileg. Lond.,' p. 318 ; City Records, Rep. 103, 
 fol. 236 seg., where a certificate of the custom of the City of London is recorded 
 by order of the Court of Chancery, in a case of Chase and wife v. Box. 
 
 M 
 
l62 
 
 II. 47. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 
 Jernemuthe (Yarmouth). 
 
 On the same subject as II. 42, supra. 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 48. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Reverend and Noble Patriarch of Aquileia.* 
 
 Certifying under the seal of the Mayoralty that whereas 
 he had desired to be informed respecting a suit brought 
 before them by " Nigrus Lotys de Vynsona " against John, 
 Count " de Purcean,"f for a debt of 700 marks, borrowed by 
 him as appears by a writing obligatory of himself and the 
 Lord Hubert " de Careris," Peter, Lord " Dargeville," and 
 Lord John " de Aldersellis," whereby they stood jointly 
 and severally bound ; the said suit had been stayed 
 till further notice by order of the King's Chancellor, 
 inasmuch as the said Chancellor had heard that an action 
 for the same debt was pending in the Court of Rome, 
 and that the said Count " de Purcean" still remained a 
 hostage. 
 
 London, 15th November, 42 Edward III. (A.D. 1368). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 49. The same to Sir Fulk de Bermyngeham. 
 
 Robert Mympe, drover, citizen of London, had com- 
 plained that whereas he was a freeman of the said City, 
 and therefore quit of paying custom and toll for his 
 merchandise throughout the King's dominion, toll had been 
 demanded of him for his beasts when brought within the 
 seignory of Sir Fulk, which was to the prejudice of the 
 franchise of the said City. Desire, therefore, that the said 
 
 * Marquard Randeck, surnamed Nordling. 
 
 t Jean de Chastillon, Comte de Portien, or Porteyn, one of the French nobles 
 held as hostages in England for the King of France after the treaty of Bretigni. 
 Rymer's 'Foedera,' vol. iii. part i. p. 515; ibid., part ii. p. 1043. 
 
i63 
 
 Robert and his sureties may be discharged, and that no 
 such custom and toll be demanded in the future. 
 
 London, 22nd September, 43 (Edward III. a.d. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 50. The Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of 
 London to the Mayor and Echevins oi Amy ens (Amiens). 
 
 Informing them that John de Stodeye had complained 
 that whereas John de Truseux and " Tebaud " de Truseux, 
 merchants of " Amyens," were bound to him in the sum of 
 88/. 8j., which they ought to have paid him in London at 
 Christmas last; and that whereas John de Truseux and 
 William Moret, merchants of " Amyens," were likewise bound 
 to him in the sum of 112/. 14^-. 4^., which they ought to have 
 paid him on the 15 th day of July last past, neither of these 
 sums had been paid him, to his great loss. Desire them, 
 therefore, to compel the said John de Truseux, " Tebaud " 
 de Truseux, and William Moret by all legal and reasonable 
 means to pay the said John de Stodeye the sums aforesaid 
 as soon as possible, in such manner as they would themselves 
 wish to be treated in like case or weightier. The Holy Spirit 
 have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 II. 51. The same to the Stewards of Lewes and Brembre (Bramber, 
 CO, Sussex). 
 
 John Philipot, Esmond Oliver, and Thomas Vylers, 
 merchants of the City of London, had complained that dis- 
 tress had been levied for "Rivage"* and "Pountage "t on their 
 merchandise passing through the bailiwick of the said stewards, 
 which was contrary to the franchise of the said City. Desire 
 them, therefore, to restore the distress so taken, and to suffer 
 them to pass without paying toll on the said merchandise or on 
 any other which they should bring through the said bailiwick ; 
 
 * Toll for passing along a river. 
 t Toll for crossing a bridge. 
 
 M 2 
 
1 64 
 
 in such manner as they would themselves wish to be treated 
 in like case or weightier. The Holy Spirit have them ever in 
 his keeping. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 II. 52. Letters patent of the Mayor, Recorder, and Aldermen of the 
 City of London. 
 
 Certifying under their Common Seal that William Strete, 
 " botiller " of the lord the King, had proved before them, upon 
 his oath and upon the oaths of John Chichestre, Robert de 
 la More, and Geffrey Neuton, of London, that 12 "sarplers" 
 of wool which had been seized at " Sweynesseie en Goer " 
 (Swansea in Gower, Wales), at the suit of one Janyn Laurenz, 
 of "Kermerdyn" (Caermarthen), by covine of Richard Scurlag 
 and Robynet Penbrigge and many others, were at the time 
 and still are the property of the said William and of none 
 other. In these " sarplers " were packed 665 stone of wool, 
 each stone weighing 16 pounds, of the value of 254/. \6s. %d. 
 sterling, irrespective of the costs and damages incurred by 
 the said William by reason of the said seizure. 
 
 London, i6th April, 43 Edward III. (1369). French. 
 
 II. 53. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the Very 
 Reverend Father in God (Nicholas Littlington), Abbot of 
 Westminster.* 
 
 Informing him that John Broke, "hurer," citizen of 
 London, had complained that Robert Hilton, of " Chestre," 
 
 * Abbot 1362-1386. His name is still preserved in the 'Littlington Missal,' 
 one of his many bequests to the Abbey. The ' Liber Regalis,' which prescribed the 
 order for the ceremony of the coronation of Richard IL, and has continued to be the 
 basis of all subsequent coronations, was drawn up by him. He also rebuilt or 
 built the Abbot's house (the present Deanery), a great portion of the cloisters, and 
 other parts of the conventual buildings which have since perished ; as also the 
 " Jerusalem Chamber," probably so called from its being decorated with tapestries 
 or pictures of the history of Jerusalem, just as the " Antioch Chamber" acquired 
 its name from pictures representing the siege of Antioch by the Crusaders. 
 Stanley's ' Memorials of Westminster Abbey,' pp. 68, 377, 402 ; Loftie's ' Hist, 
 of London,' vol. ii. p. 53 ; Newcourt's ' Repertorium,' vol. i. p. 716, note. 
 
i65 
 
 who had been enrolled as his apprentice in the Guildhall of 
 London, according to the custom of the said City, to serve 
 him for a term of three years, had maliciously left his service, 
 and was living within the Abbey of Westminster, so that he 
 was unable to recover possession of him, whereby a dangerous 
 example is set for other apprentices in the said City in 
 time to come, unless a remedy should be provided. Might 
 it please his lordship, therefore, to command his servants in 
 the said Abbey to deliver up the said apprentice to his master, 
 who was willing to pay anything that might be owing on his 
 behalf. The Holy Spirit preserve him and increase his 
 honours. 
 
 London, 26th May, 43 Edward III. (a.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 Temp. SIMON DE MORDON, MAYOR, amio 43 [Edward III. 
 A.D. 1368 — 9], continued. 
 
 II. 54. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Bailiffs of the Town of Thakstede (co. Essex). 
 
 Desiring them to assist William Cave, citizen of London, 
 to recover possession of John Croulond, of " Trumpetone " 
 (Trumpington), in the county of Cambridge, who had been 
 bound to him as apprentice for a term of eight years, and 
 had run away, and was understood to be residing in their 
 town ; in such manner as they would themselves wish to be 
 treated in like case or weightier. The Holy Spirit have them 
 in his keeping, 
 
 15 th June, j.«. French. 
 
 II. 55. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Swathelinge (co. 
 South Hants .?). 
 
 Had been informed by James Castelete that they had 
 
 seized his horse, of a mouse-dun colour,* with a black fore- 
 
 * Un cheval colour mous don ou un noir liste. Dun was formerly the name 
 
 of a horse or jade, e. g., " To draw Dun out of the mire." " Dun is the mouse " 
 
 was a proverbial saying of rather vague signification, but probably alluding, as 
 
 here, to the colour of the mouse. Halliwell's ' Archaic Diet.' 
 
1 66 
 
 head, which he had purchased in open market in Smith- 
 field, on Friday next before the Feast of St. Barnabas 
 (nth June) last past, from John Costantyn, citizen of 
 London, in the presence of Hugh Avenel, Bailiff of 
 Smithfield, to whom he paid his toll for the same, as 
 the said bailiff and the said John Costantyn and many 
 others had certified. Desire them, therefore, to restore 
 the same to the said James, as reason demands, without 
 further delay, in such manner as they would wish a 
 request of theirs to be respected in like case. The Holy 
 Spirit keep them. 
 
 London, i6th June, 43 (Edward HI. A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 56. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the City of Cauntebirs 
 (Canterbury). 
 
 William Daberoun, citizen of London, had complained 
 that whereas he had lent a horse, "don,"* with a black 
 forehead, to Hugh Reyner, to ride thereon to the coast [with] 
 the Duke of Lancaster, which he had purchased from Paul, 
 the servant of William de Harwedone, at Smithfield, in the 
 presence of good men, for the sum of i \s., the said Paul 
 having purchased the same from Thomas, servant to Nicholas 
 Thamworthe, Knt., as the said Thomas had testified before 
 Adam (Wymondham), Sheriff of the City of London ; the 
 said horse had been seized by their bailiffs, and the journey 
 of the said Hugh interrupted. Desire them to restore the 
 same to the said Hugh, who had been proved to be its 
 rightful owner, that he might be no longer hindered on his 
 way ; in such manner as they would wish their folk to be 
 treated in like case. The Holy Spirit have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, — June, 43 (Edward HI. a.d. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 * Vide preceding^ letter, note. 
 
167 
 
 II. 57. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 Maydenstone (Maidstone). 
 
 Desiring them to give up one John Lykhom, brewer, 
 who had unlawfully left the service of Thomas atte Ram, 
 brewer, and was now living in their town ; in such manner 
 as they would wish a request of theirs to be respected in like 
 case, and so that the said Thomas might have no occasion 
 to complain elsewhere. 
 
 London, 4th July, 43 Edward III. (a.D. 1369). French. 
 
 11. 58. The same to the Bailiffs and Good Folk of the Town of 
 Ware. 
 
 John de Lyncoln, " corsour "* and citizen of London, 
 had complained that one "Marione de Clyf," who had 
 agreed to serve him for a term of one year, had left his 
 service without leave or reasonable cause, and was now 
 residing in their town. Desire them to deliver her up to 
 the said John, in such manner as they would wish a request 
 of theirs to be respected in like case. The Holy Spirit 
 have them in his keeping. 
 
 London, 26th July, 43 (Edward III. A.D. 1369). 
 
 French, 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 59. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Exenford 
 (Oxford). 
 
 Concerning a debt of 8/. sterling due to Simon de 
 Mordone, citizen of London, by Robert de Croidone. 
 
 Date illegible. French. 
 
 II. 60. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Langele (Langley). 
 
 Desiring them to deliver up one John Brest the younger, 
 of " Glastenbury " (co. Somerset), who had been bound 
 * A horse dealer. 
 
I 68 
 
 apprentice to William Everstrete, tailor and citizen of 
 London, and had left his service without leave or reasonable 
 cause, and was now understood to be concealing himself 
 in their bailiwick ; in such manner as they would wish a 
 request of theirs to be respected in like case, and so that 
 the said William might have no occasion to complain 
 elsewhere. 
 
 London, 27th July, 43 (Edward III. A.D. 1369). 
 
 Frefich. 
 
 II. 61. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town ol Nouel 
 Chastel (Newcastle) upon Tyne. 
 
 William Bristowe and John Cros, grocers and citizens 
 of London, had complained of being distrained upon for 
 payment of toll and custom for their goods. Inasmuch as 
 they are freemen of the said City, they are by franchise 
 quit of all manner of custom throughout the realm of 
 England. Desire, therefore, that their goods might be 
 restored to them, and that they might be suffered to pass 
 quit of toll and custom, that they might not have cause for 
 further complaint, in such manner as they would wish a request 
 of theirs to be respected in like case. The Holy Spirit have 
 them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 30th July, 43 Edward III. (A.U. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 62. The same to the Bailiffs, Constables, and Good Folk of 
 the Town of Hicchen (Hitchin, co. Herts). 
 
 Whereas Geffrey de Roxstone, of London, butcher, had 
 complained that when he was taking some cattle to the 
 town of St. " Need " (St. Neots, co. Huntingdon), to wit, 
 five oxen and forty-two sheep, the same had been seized 
 on suspicion when passing through their town : it had 
 been established, upon the oaths of Richard Stonham, Henry 
 Asselyn, Stephen atte Forthe, John Sprot, Elys de Westone, 
 " bochers," and other good men of the City of London, 
 
169 
 
 that the said Geffrey was a good man and loyal, and that 
 the said beasts were his own property, having been pur- 
 chased in open market at Smithfield. Desire them, 
 therefore, to cause the same to be restored to him, in 
 such manner as they would wish a request of theirs to be 
 respected in like case. The Holy Spirit have them in his 
 keeping. 
 
 London, 7th August, 43 Edward III. (A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 63. The same to John Hynxstworthe, Sheriff of Essex and 
 Hertford. 
 
 Desiring him for love's sake to assist Richard Serle, 
 citizen and currier of London, to recover possession of 
 Robert Wolmere, of Bishops Hatfield (co. Herts), who had 
 begn bound his apprentice for a term of eight years, but 
 had left his service without leave or reasonable cause, and 
 was now understood to be residing in Bishops Hatfield ; in 
 such manner as he would wish a request of his to be 
 respected in like case. The Holy Spirit have him ever 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 8th August, 43 Edward HI. (A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 64. The same to Sir Fulk de Bermyngeham and his Com- 
 panions, Arrayers of men-at-arms, in the County of Buck- 
 ingham. 
 
 Certifying that whereas they had arrayed William de 
 Nafferton among the men-at-arms of the said county for 
 lands and tenements which he possessed within the same, 
 he had already been arrayed among the men-at-arms of the 
 City of London. 
 
 London, 17th August, 43 Edward HL (A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
lyo 
 
 LETTERS SENT temp. JOHN DE CHICHESTRE, MAYOR, 
 anno 43 [Edward III. A.D. 1369 — 70]. 
 
 11. 65. The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London to the 
 Mayor and Bailiffs of the City of Canterbirs (Canterbury). 
 
 Informing them that Alice, widow of Simon de London, 
 late draper, was a freeman* of the City of London, and, 
 therefore, quit of all manner of custom and toll throughout 
 the realm of England, and desiring them to deliver up the 
 goods which they had seized, belonging to her, in the hands 
 of her servant, John Notekyn, of " Brandon fery," in the 
 county of Suffolk, who had been bound apprentice to John 
 de Norton, citizen and draper of London, for a term of 
 seven years, and whose term of apprenticeship had been 
 afterwards sold by him to the said Simon, according to 
 the customt of the City of London. 
 
 London, 5th November, 43 (Edward III. A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 66. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Redynges 
 (Reading). 
 
 Simon de Mordon and Richard Grace, of London, stock- 
 fishmonger, had complained that whereas divers goods and 
 chattels of John Prentys de Redinges, " diere," had been 
 seized, at their suit, for debt, and that some time had since 
 elapsed, owing to the said John being unv/illing to appear 
 and to answer the said Simon and Richard in respect of the 
 said debt ; and whereas they had frequently requested that, 
 according to the custom of England and of the law merchant, 
 such goods should be placed in their hands ; this nevertheless 
 had not been done, to the great delay of their suit and to 
 
 * Franche homme. 
 
 t " The custom of London is to turn over an apprentice from one to another ; 
 and he to whom such apprentice is turned over may have action of covenant upon 
 
 special issues on the several breaches assigned " — Bohun's ' Privilegia Londini,' 
 
 p. 176. 
 
171 
 
 their great loss. Desire, therefore, that the said goods might 
 be delivered to them as quickly as possible, that they be not 
 longer delayed, nor have occasion to complain elsewhere. 
 
 London, 12th November, 43 (Edward III. A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 n. 67. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Excestre 
 (Exeter). 
 
 Desiring them to restore to Nicholas Donat, citizen of 
 London, the goods which they had seized for payment of 
 custom, inasmuch as he, being a freeman of the said City, 
 is quit of all manner of toll or custom throughout the realm 
 of England ; in such manner as they would themselves wish 
 to be treated in like case. 
 
 London, 12th November, 43 (Edward IIL A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 68. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Bristoll. 
 
 John Dovy, Richard Northbury, and Thomas de Estone, 
 citizens of London, had complained that Hugh fitz Gyles, 
 of "Nicole" (Lincoln), owed them divers sums of money, 
 which he ought to have paid some time since. He was now 
 understood to be in their bailiwick to sell his merchandise. 
 Desire them, therefore, to enforce the payment of the debts 
 aforesaid, and to receive Thomas de Estone, who had been 
 appointed by the said John Dovy and Richard Northbury their 
 attorney to prosecute the said Hugh in their name, in such 
 manner as they would themselves wish to be treated in like 
 case. The Holy Spirit have them ever in his keeping. 
 
 London, 14th December, 43 Edward HI. (A.D, 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 II. 69. The same to the Bailiffs of the Town of Roucestre 
 (Rochester). 
 
 William Gentyl, haberdasher and citizen of London, had 
 complained that a hanap of maser belonging to him, of 
 
172 
 
 silver gilt, together with a "bursele"* and an image of St. 
 Katherine enamelled, had been seized in the possession of 
 John de Canterbery, to whom he had entrusted the said 
 hanap in London. It had been proved upon oath that the 
 said hanap was the proper chattel of the said William, to 
 whom they are requested, for love's sake, to restore it, as 
 they would themselves wish to be treated in like case. 
 
 London, 29th December, 43 (Edward IIL A.D. 1369). 
 
 French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 n. 70. The same to the Reverend Father in God (Robert de 
 Faversham), Abbot of Feversham (co. Kent). 
 
 John de Cockfeld, citizen of London, had complained 
 that his goods had been seized by the Abbot's officers at 
 the suit of one William Meryweder, to whom the said John 
 owed nothing, and a general acquittance made by the said 
 William at London to the said John had been produced. 
 Desire him, therefore, to command his aforesaid officers not 
 to detain the said John at the suit of the said William, 
 contrary to the acquittance aforesaid, and to restore his 
 goods, as reason demands. The Holy Spirit have him ever 
 in his keeping. 
 
 London, 7th January, 43 Edward HL (A.D. i3-f§). 
 
 French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter ; 
 and a note of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor 
 and Burgesses of the Town of Feversham. Latin. 
 
 II. 71. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of Nicole 
 (Lincoln). 
 
 Desiring them to give up to Richard Rose, tailor, a black 
 horse, which he had let to hire at London to Friar Benet, 
 * Query a Papal bull. 
 
173 
 
 "perdoner* del hautepas/'f to ride thereon as far as their 
 town, to be restored to its owner on his return ; and 
 which they had seized at the suit of Nicholas Werk for 
 a debt which he demanded of the said friar, the same 
 being the proper chattel of the said Richard, as had been 
 proved. 
 
 No date. French. 
 
 Here follow the names of witnesses to the above letter. 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 72. The same to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the Town of 
 Fevershani (co. Kent). 
 
 Desiring them for love's sake to give up to John Cocfeld, 
 citizen of London, his goods which had been seized at the 
 suit of William Miriweder, from whom he had received a 
 general acquittance at London in bar of action ; to which 
 the said William, however, had pleaded that at the time of 
 the acquittance being given he was suffering imprisonment 
 at the hands of the said John. This plea could not by law 
 be considered by them. 
 
 London, i8th January, 43 Edward III. (a.D. I3f§). 
 
 French. 
 
 * A pardoner, or ecclesiastic having authority from the head of the Church of 
 Rome to travel abroad for the purpose of selling pardons or indulgences, the 
 proceeds of such sales being usually devoted to some special purpose. His 
 character forms the subject of one of Chaucer's liveliest descriptions (' Canterbury 
 Tales,' Prologue, 671-716). The expedients resorted to by these itinerants, who 
 travelled throughout the country with their wallets 
 
 " Bretful of pardons come from Rome al hole," 
 and extorted money from the ignorant by practising upon their superstitious fears, 
 were condemned by several councils of the Church; and by statute 22 Hen. VIII. 
 c. 12, all proctors and pardoners travelling in England without sufficient authority 
 were to be treated as vagabonds. 
 
 t Or halpace, a raised platform or dais ; but its meaning in the City Records 
 sometimes extends to a room or floor raised on pillars over a portion of the 
 street Vide Glossary to ' Liber Albus' (Master of the Rolls Series), and Riley's 
 ' Memorials,' pp. 453i 600. 
 
174 
 
 A note of a similar letter having been sent to the Mayor and 
 
 Bailiffs of * on behalf of the said John de Cocfeld, 
 
 dated London, nth , 43 (Edward III.). 
 
 Latin. 
 
 II. 73. Letters patent of the Mayor and Aldernnen of the City of 
 London, under the Common Seal. 
 
 On the same subject as II. 52. Certifying that William 
 Strete, "botiler" of the lord the King, had proved before 
 them upon oath that certain goods which had been seized at 
 " Swessnysseye en Gower " (Swansea in Gower, Wales), at 
 the suit of one (Janyn Laurenz) of " Kermerdyn " (Caer- 
 marthen), belonged to him and to none other. 
 
 London, 15th April, 44 Edward III. A.D. 1370. 
 
 French. 
 
 * Illegible. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 NAMES OF PERSONS. 
 
 Aberford, Humfrey, armourer, I. 70 
 
 Abraham, John, girdler, I. 149 
 
 Acresmythe, John, agent of John de Famham, 
 
 I. 67 
 Acton, William de, Mayor of Newcastle-on- 
 
 Tyne, II. 43 
 Albano, Bishop of. Vide Talleyrand. 
 Aldersellis, Lord John de, II. 48 
 Aleyn, John, apprentice to Alice Edward, 
 
 I- 33. 35 
 , John, master of a ship belonging to 
 
 Bartholomew Nogan, II. 42 
 Aleyns, Maude, I. 36 
 Almaine, Albrecht d', I. 215 
 , Katherine, daughter of the above, 
 
 I. 21S 
 Alvetheley, William de, I. 263 
 Angos, Earl of. Vide Urafreville. 
 Appelby, Robert de, sergeant-at-arms, I. 119 
 Aquileia. Vide Randeck. 
 Arnald, Robert, of Winchelsea, I. 204 
 Amaldessone, John, van Brugge, I. 243 
 Asselyn, Henry, butcher, II. 62 
 Asshehurst, John de, II. 9 
 Aubrey, Andrew, I. 5, 13, 14, 15, 123 
 
 John, I. 267 
 
 , Thomas, I. 82 
 
 Aumesbury, William de, I. 1 19 
 
 Avenel, Hugh, Bailifif of Smithfield, II. 55 
 
 Ayllesbury, John de, Sheriif of Bedford and 
 
 Buckingham, II. 41 
 
 Baa, Thomas de, of "Sewelle," co. North- 
 ampton, I. 78 
 
 Bacon, Richard, I. 125 
 
 Baddyng, Robert, of Winchelsea, I. 193 
 
 Bakere, Ralph le, I. 32 
 
 , Thomas, master of a ship called 
 
 " Raulyn Gobbe," of tx)ndon, I. 245 
 
 Baiuitone, John de, steward to the Earl of 
 Stafford, I. 219 
 
 Barbour, John, I. 178 
 
 Baret, Stephen, II. 9 
 
 Bamet, Thomas atte, mason, I. 171 
 
 Bartelot, John, I. 124 
 
 , John, girdler, appointed to regulate 
 
 the craft of girdlers within the City of 
 London, I. 149 
 
 Bartone, John de, II. 11 
 
 Basset, William, a justice, I. 122 
 Bat, Robert, apprentice to Henry Sket, fish- 
 monger, I. 268 
 Bathe, John de, "webbe," p. 150 
 Baudac, John, II. 8 
 Bayon, Stephen, agent of Bernard Dyos, 
 
 citizen of London, I. 96 
 Beauchamp, Thomas de, Earl of Warwick, 
 
 1.258 
 
 , Gilbert, fishmonger, I. 201 
 
 , John de, Admiral, I. 137 
 
 Bedeford, John de, late citizen of London, I. 89 
 
 , John de, of Yarmouth, I. 99 
 
 Benet, Friar, "perdoner del hautepas," II. 71 
 
 Berd, Robert, "brasiere," I. 95 
 
 Bere, John, carpenter, II. 29 
 
 Bereford, Robert, spicer, I. 75 
 
 Berfiete, Richard de, I. 195 
 
 Bermyngeham, Sir Fulk de, II. 49 ; arrayer 
 
 of men-at-arms in co. Bucks, II. 64 
 Bethlehem or Bedlem, Bishop of, II. 16, 17 
 Bexeford, Robert de, tailor, I. 278 
 Birle, Thomas, I. 21 
 Bixtone, Walter de, I. 229 
 Blak, Robert, mariner, I. 216 
 Blake, Nicholas, vintner, I. no 
 Blakeneye, John, I. 245 
 
 , John de, fishmonger, II, 13, 20, 36 
 
 Bleynes, Naudyn de, merchant of Bordeaux, 
 
 I. 119 
 Blithe, John de, saddler, I, 141 
 Blundel, Thomas, I. 146 
 Bodenham, Richard de, p. 1 38 
 Bole, John, Dean of the Curriers of Bruges, 
 
 I. 186 
 
 John, upholder, II. 39 
 
 Alice, wife of the above, II. 39 
 
 Bolyngton, Thomas de, of Hatfield Regis, 
 
 CO. Essex, I. 260 
 
 , Agnes, wife of the above, I. 260 
 
 , Thomas, son of the above, I. 260 
 
 Bonacursi, Gregorio, "de laterino," I. 4 
 
 Bonauntre, Thomas, tapicer, p. 138 
 
 Bonde, Robert, master of a ship called "La 
 
 plente de Sayere " (?), I. 245 
 Bondequere, Henry, I. 135 
 Boner, Geffrey, "patemostrer," II. 46 
 
 , Agnes, daughter of the above, II. 46 
 
 Bonet, Gilbert, I. 249 
 
176 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Bonwode, Thomas de, I. 102 
 
 Bothe, Walter atte, a merchant of Scotland, 
 
 II. 21, 22 
 Botulphstone, John de, dyer, II. 7 
 Boudewynessone, Henry, I. 254, 256 
 Bountayn, Roger, I. 87 
 Bourbon, James de. Count de la March and 
 
 Pontyf, I. 201 
 Boydon, Roger de, of Coventry, I. 130 
 Brabard, John, I. 27 
 Brabasoun, Adam, fishmonger, p. 78 
 Brabazon, Adam, I. 11 
 Brabison, Adam, fishmonger, I. 180 
 Brakyngburgh, William de, I. 136 
 Brandon, Thomas de, mercer, I. 30 
 
 , Thomas de, p. 74 
 
 Bray nford, William de, fishmonger, I. 126, 224 
 Bret, John, I. 224, p. 105 
 
 , John, I. 168 
 
 Brewere, John le, p. 150 
 
 , John, son of the above, p. 150 
 
 Brian, Robert, of Wodeham, I. 97 
 
 Brickies, William de, II. 31 
 
 Bricklesworth, John, Sheriff of London, I. 272; 
 
 II. I 
 Bridport, John, I. 174 
 
 William de, notary, I. 246 
 
 Erigge, John de, of co. York, I. 120 
 Bristowe, William, grocer, II. 61 
 Brod, Henry, skinner, II. 43 
 
 Nicholas, son of the above, II. 43 
 
 Brokas, John, Knt., p. 35 
 
 Broke, John, " hurer," II. 53 
 
 Bromle, John, I. 80 
 
 Broun, John, of "Wantynche." brother of 
 
 Geffrey de " Wantynche," I. 191 
 
 , Matthew, I. 246 
 
 Peter, of " Wantynche, " brother of 
 
 Geffrey de " Wantynche," I. 191 
 Brusleye, John de, I. 74 
 Bruwere, William, I. 234 
 
 Andrew, son of the above, I. 234 
 
 Buchier, Robert, of "Badberham" (Babra- 
 
 ham, CO. Camb. ), I. 146 
 Buckely, Sir William de, I. 17 
 Bukkeby, William de, parson of St, Mary 
 
 Aldermary, I. 142 
 Bukyngham, Richard de, "peleter," I. 48 
 Bures, John de, draper, I. 60 
 Burgh, Richard, I. 227 
 Burghaysshe, Bartholomew, Constable of Dover 
 
 Castle, I. 56 
 Burghwell, William, I. 133 
 Burton, Henry de, vintner, I. 167 
 
 , Willierde, Knt., I. 65 
 
 Bury, Robert, Rector of " Burghershe, " diocese 
 
 of Chichester, I. 178 
 Buterlee, Thomas de, chaplain, I. 128 
 Bysset, Thomas, Knt., I. 246 
 
 Caban, William, I. 257 
 Camelyn, John de, of " Compygne," I. 201 
 Cantebrigge, John de, farrier, I. 42 
 Canterbery, John de, II. 69 
 Canterbury, Abp. of. Vide Islip. 
 KzVif Langhani. 
 
 Careris, Lord Hubert de, II. 48 
 Carlille, Aleyn de, of Cornhill, II. 43 
 Cartyn, John, burgess of Dunkirk in Flanders, 
 
 I. 251 
 Castel, William atte, I. 156 
 Castelete, James, II. 55 
 Catour, John, vintner, I. 106 
 Catworth, Thomas, of Northampton, appren- 
 tice to Robert de Bexeford, tailor, I. 278 
 Caumbrey, Giles de, merchant, I. 116 
 Cauntebregge, Henry, son of Ralph de, I. 71 
 
 Juliana, daughter of Ralph de, I. 71 
 
 , Ralph de, I. 71 
 
 , Ralph de, fripperer, I. 1 86 
 
 Caustone, John de, I. 172 
 
 , Robert de, bailiff, I. 56 
 
 Cave, William, II. 54 
 
 Cavendisshe, John, son of Thomas de, I. 257 
 
 Margery, widow of John de, I. 257 
 
 Stephen de, mayor, I. 239 
 
 , Thomas de, I. 257 
 
 Cesario, Bishop of Sancta Maria de Rosis, 
 
 I. 52. 132 
 
 Chalfhurst, William, p. 143 
 
 , John, son of the above, p. 143 
 
 Chalk, John, I. 75 
 
 Chamberleyn, Simon, vintner, I. 3, 6, 24, 28 
 
 Chapman, John, p. 133 
 
 , Nicholas, of Bristol, I. 135 
 
 Chark, Henry, II. 45 
 
 , Edith, wife of the above, widow of 
 
 William Nyweman, tanner, II. 45 
 
 Charles IV., Emperor of the Romans, I. 250 
 
 Chaundeler, Peter le, of Canterbury, I. 94 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 94 
 
 Chaundeller, John, I. 267 
 
 Cherte, John, pouchmaker, p. 64 
 
 Chester, Richard, I. 274, p. 134 
 
 Cheyner, Thomas, mercer, I. 57, 76 
 
 Chichel, John, homer, p. 133 
 
 Chichestre, John de, hosteller, I. 272 
 
 , John, II. 52 
 
 Child, John, ofFaversham, co. Kent, I. 61 
 
 Chilham, Thomas de, "maryner," I, 43 
 
 Chiltem, John de, I. 88 
 
 Chober, Robert, hurer, I. 77 
 
 Clay, Thomas, I. IIO 
 
 Claye, Elys de, II. 40 
 
 Cleaungre, Richard, p. 8, note. 
 
 Clement VI., Pope, I. 15, 52 
 
 Clerk, John, p. 150 
 
 Cleward, Clays, I. 212, 280 
 
 Cliftone, John de. Marshal of the King's Ex- 
 chequer, I. 239 
 
 Clyf, Marione de, II. 58 
 
 Cobham, Reginald de, Knt., Governor of the 
 town of Calais, p. 55 
 
 Cockfeld, John de, II. 70, 72 
 
 Coene, Jacob, II. 15 
 
 Anne, wife of the above, II. 15 
 
 Cokk, John, drover, I. 88, 90 
 
 Colbrond, Hamond, corder, I. 94, 135 
 
 Colkyrke, John de, I. 194 
 
 Elizabeth, wife of the above, I. 194 
 
 Coloigne, John de, I. 125 
 
 Colyber, Peter, of Dordrecht, I. 244 
 
NAMES OF PERSONS. 
 
 177 
 
 Comberton, 'WilUam, II. 37 
 
 Cone, Esmond de, goldsmilh, I. 81 
 
 Cook, Simon, of West Yarmouth, II. 5 
 
 , William, I. 195 
 
 Corby, Walter, I. 279 
 
 Corn, Robert, I. 235 
 
 Cornbitere, John, burgess of Bruges, I. 194 
 
 Costantvn, John, II. 55 
 
 Coton, William, II. 38 
 
 Coventre, John de, I. 34 
 
 , John, cheesemonger, I. 219 
 
 Craft, Adam, II. 44 
 
 Cranburgh, John de, I. 162 
 
 , Katherine, wife of the above, I. 162 
 
 Cranesle, John de, I. 31 
 
 , Joan, wife of the above, I. 31 
 
 Credil, William, p. 35 
 
 , William, II. 32 
 
 , Thomas, son of the above, II 32 
 
 Croft, Hugh, I. 93 
 
 Croidone, Robert de, II. 59 
 
 Cros, John, grocer, II. 61 
 
 Crosse, John, I. 49 
 
 Crouche, Roger atte, I. 229 
 
 , Thomas atte, senior, p. 124 
 
 Croude, William, I. 12 
 
 Croulond, John, of Trumpington, co. Cam- 
 bridge, II. 54 
 
 Croy, Peter de, burgess of Amiens, II. 18 
 
 Crudener, William, merchant of Sluys, I. 124 
 
 Crull, Sir Robert de, Clerk of the King's Navy, 
 II. 14 
 
 Curteys, Richard, of Bristol, I. 37 
 
 Daberoun, William, II. 56 
 Dabregescourt, Sir Eustace, Knt., II. 12 
 Dagh, Nicholas, I. 106, loi 
 Daldeby, John, Prior of the Hospital Church 
 
 of St. John's, Clerkenwell, II. 26 
 Dale, Peter, I. 226 
 Dammory, Nicholas, I. 270 
 
 , Richard, I. 270 
 
 Danyel, Robert, burgess of Faversham, I. 6 1 
 
 Dargeville, Peter, Lord, II. 48 
 
 Daudelee, Sir Peter, p. 67 
 
 David, Thomas, I. 141 
 
 Dawe, John, drover, I. 25 
 
 Delfino, Giovanni, Doge of Venice, I. 246 
 
 Depham, John de, I. 17, 26 
 
 , Raulyn de, I. 26 
 
 , Richard, brother of Robert de, I. 127 
 
 , Robert, brother of Richard de, I. 
 
 127 
 
 Roger de. Alderman, I. 29 
 
 Derthyngton, John de, I. 220 
 
 , Cristiana, wife of the above, I. 220 
 
 Deushe, Richard, of the Isle of Thanet, I. 125 
 Devonshire. Roger de, I. 109 
 Dexcestre, John, I. 141 
 Dexemeuth, John, I. 188 
 Dilwich, John, "sporjere," I. 217 
 
 , Isabel, wife of the above, I. 217 
 
 Dobbesone, Nichola.5, I. 5, 13, 14 
 
 Dole, Peter, of Utrecht, I. 215 
 
 Dolsely, Thomas, Mayor of the Staple, I. 37 
 
 Donat, Nicholas, II. 67 
 
 Dordright, Dederyk de, master of a ship called 
 
 "la Weselere," I. 203 
 Dorre, Geoffrey, p. 70 
 Double, William, fishmonger, I. 31 
 Dovy, John, II. 68 
 Doxenford, John, I. 141 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 141 
 
 Dru, William, II. 38 
 Dumburgh, Heigne van, II. 10 
 Dunstable, Prior of, I. 33 
 Dunsterre, John, fripperer, p. 35 
 Dygoun, Richard, weaver, I. 77 
 Dyke, Raynald, Sheriff of Kent, I 141 
 Dykeman, William, I. 230 
 Dyos, Bernard, I. 96 
 Dyvelyn, Walter de, I. 107 
 
 Edward, Alice, I. 33, 35 
 
 Edward III., King of England, I. 44 
 
 Edyngton, William de, Bishop of AVinchester, 
 
 I. II, 196 
 Egmentone, John de, I. 2 
 Eklow, Thomas, I. 195 
 Else, John, I. 169 
 Englisshe, John, I. 187 
 Erhethe, Robert de, 1. 71 
 Erlee, Nicholas de, I. 70 
 
 , Laurence, son of the above, I. 70 
 
 Espelon, Stephen, burgess of Sandwich, I. 71 
 
 Essex, Richard de, draper, I. 60 
 
 Estone, Thomas de, II. 68 
 
 Euere, Richard de, II. 34, 35 
 
 Eure, Richard de, I. 21 
 
 Everstrete, William, tailor, II. 60 
 
 Eweyn, Walter, p. 149 
 
 Extone, Nicholas, fishmonger, p. 123 
 
 Famham, John de, I. 67, 68 
 
 John de, of Eastcheap, butcher, I. 105 
 
 Fattyng, Warin, I. 85 
 
 , Johane, daughter of the above, I. 85 
 
 Faucombrigge, Walter de, Knt., I. 66 
 
 Faveresham, Adam de, I. 177 
 
 Faversham, Robert de. Abbot of Faversham, 
 
 CO. Kent, II. 70 
 Fentone, Thomas de, I. 240 
 Ferandi, Dominico, merchant of London, 1. 214 
 Ferby, Walter, burgess of Oxford, I. 148 
 Ferers, Raynald, I. 204 
 Fermer, Adam, "botiler," p. 150 
 Ferrers, Reginald de, the King's Sergeant-at- 
 
 arms, II. 14 
 Ferthinge, William, of the Isle of Thanet, 
 
 I. 125 
 Feryng, Oliver, burgess of Sluys, I. 85 
 
 , Johane, late wife of the above, I. 85 
 
 Fisshere, Geoffrey, of Greenwich, p. 78 
 Fitz-Gyles, Hugh, of Lincoln, II. 68 
 Fitz-Nichol, Philip, merchant of London, I. 
 
 243 
 Flanders, Count of, I. 152 
 
 , the Receiver of, I. 153 
 
 Flemyng, Hanekyn, II. 3 
 Flete, Roger de, draper, I. 65 
 Fode, John, de Barneby, I. 220 
 Foil, William, citizen of Dublin, I. 166 
 
 N 
 
178 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Fordham, George de, I. 79 
 Forthe, Stephen atte, butcher, II. 62 
 France, Blanche, Queen Dowager of, I. 273 
 Frank, Ortillus, van Nerynbergh, II. 3 
 Fraunceys, Adam, I. 134 
 
 , Elys, I. 13s 
 
 John, II. 44 
 
 , Simon, Alderman, I. 29 
 
 , Simon, I. 13, 51, 58, 62 
 
 , Thomas, I. 5, 13 
 
 FresoU, John, dyer, p. 56 
 
 Fretone, Roger de, II. 16 
 
 Frewylle, John, Knt., I. 274 
 
 Fromond, William, I. 230 
 
 Furlour, Peter, merchant of Bristol, I. 1 1 7 
 
 Fychet, Nicholas, I. 20 
 
 Fynch, Henry, burgess of Winchelsea, I. 193 
 
 John, I. 3, 6, 24, 28, 193 
 
 Fyrkyn, John, I. 179 
 
 Gamage, Robert, I. 270 
 
 Gardiler, Martin le, drover, I. 82 
 
 Gardin, Giles atte, p. 78, I. 180 
 
 Garenne, Countess of, I. 68 
 
 Gascoigne, Beraud de, I. 99 
 
 , Johane, wife of the above, I. 99 
 
 Gatyn, Thomas, 1 . 2 1 
 
 Gedyngton, John, tailor, p. 138 
 
 Gentil, Simon, woolstapler, I. 64, 136 
 
 Gentilis, Jacobus Gerardi, of Florence, I, i 
 
 Gentyl, William, haberdasher, II. 69 
 
 Gerardessone, John, of " Melewyk," I. 218 
 
 Gerdelere, Robert, I. 224 
 
 Gemet, Thomas, I. 267 
 
 Gestele, John de, "osteler," I. 168 
 
 Girdeler, Robert, II. 14 
 
 Gistels, Madame de, I. 238 
 
 Glendon, Roger de, I. 197 
 
 Gloucestre, Stephen, fishmonger, I. 245; 
 11.36 
 
 Godeselde, Robert, pouch maker, I. 225 
 
 Godessone, Nicholas, II. 44 
 
 Godicote, Thomas de, cordwainer, I. no 
 
 Godman, Thomas, de Hayston, I. 255 
 
 Godmerede, John, "peyntour, " p. 70 
 
 Gofaire, Robert, I. 43 
 
 Goldyngham, John de, Knt., p. 82 
 
 Gomaus, Servoise, I. 137 
 
 Gonald, Robert, master of a ship called 
 "l.a Maline," I. 163 
 
 Gonewardeby, John de, spicer, I. 17, 26, 50, 
 130, 148 
 
 Grace, Richard, stockfishmonger, II. 66 
 
 Grafton, Richard, chaplain, II. 26 
 
 Graveneye, John de, p. 109 
 
 Gray, Sir John, steward of the King's house- 
 hold, p. 67 
 Thomas, burgess of Cambridge, I. 146 
 
 Grene, John, of Stanford R3rvers, I. 219 
 
 Greyland, Richard de, "pessoner," I. 79 
 
 Grigge, Stephen, II. 38 
 
 Gros, John, p. 125 
 
 Grubbe, Peter, fishmonger, I. 27 
 
 Grymlond, Gyselyn, I. 186 
 
 Grytnmesby, John de, master of a ship called 
 "La Blithe," I. 59 
 
 Guidons, Bartholomew, money changer, I. 201 
 Gurveus, Richard, " jueler," I. 23 
 Gyboun, Thomas, I. 43, 46 
 Gyles, John, of Axle, Flanders, I. 174 
 
 Hackesalt, Roger, I. ill, 112 
 Hainault, Count de, I. 201 
 Haldone, Richard, of Hackney, I. 19 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 1 9 
 
 Hale, William atte, 1. 221 
 
 Hales, John de, of Norwich, I. 172 
 
 Halscombe, William de, I. 49 
 
 , Martin de, son of the above, I. 49 
 
 Hangard, Heniy, merchant of Amiens, II. 18 
 
 Hardy, John, II. 33 
 
 Hardyngham, John de, I. 93 
 
 Harpe, John atte, p. 109 
 
 Harwedone, William de, II. 56 
 
 Haryngey, William, I. 259 
 
 Hatfeld, John de, chandler, I. 100, loi 
 
 John de, I. 161, 177 
 
 Hawkyn, Robert, weaver, p. 136 
 Hegge, Robert atte, of Sutton, p. 61 
 
 , John, son of the above, p. 61 
 
 Hegham, Hugh, clerk, I. 249 
 
 Helmast, Claus, of Lubeck, I. 183 
 
 Hemenhale, Edmund, I. 253 
 
 Henkele, John, clerk of the Staple at Bruges, 
 
 I. 92 
 
 Henneye, William de, I. 98 
 Hereville, Walter, I. 207 
 Herle, Richard, "jueler," I. n8 
 
 , Alice, wife of the above, I. 118 
 
 Hertle, Richard de, farrier, I. 42 
 
 Hesille, William, I. 143 
 
 Hethe, Nicholas, I. 15 
 
 Hethyngham or Hidingham, John de, mercer, 
 
 II. 21, 22 
 
 Heurer, John, master of the ship called "Alice 
 of London," II. 28 
 
 Heuse, Baudreyn de la. Admiral of France, 
 I. 207 
 
 Hexham, Thomas de, of Newcastle, saddler, 
 I. 141 
 
 Heyleston, Robert de, I. 72 
 
 Heyroun, William, I. 40 
 
 Hiltoft, Alexander de, haberdasher, I. no 
 
 Hilton, John de, pewterer, I. 138 
 
 Robert, of Chester, II. 53 
 
 Hobbe, William, of Staundone, I. 82 
 
 Hockele, John, II. 46 
 
 Hokeman, John, of Ghent, draper, I. 18 
 
 Holand et Seland, La Duchesse de, I. 58, 62 
 
 Holbeche, William de, draper, I. 65 
 
 Holiwell, Roger, master of a ship called " Wel- 
 fare de Orewell," I. 245 
 
 Holland, the Duke of, II. 13 
 
 Holond, Thomas de, I. 51 
 
 Honifeld, Thomas de, baker, p. 74 
 
 Honte, John le, I. 90 
 
 Honyfeld, Herman de, I. 89 
 
 Honylee, Robert, I. 40 
 
 Horam, "Robert of ye Wente de," I. 209 
 
 Horn, Adam, of North Kelsey, co. Lincoln, 
 
 p. 139 
 Giles, I. 248 
 
NAMES OF PERSONS. 
 
 179 
 
 Horn, John, son of Adam, of North Kelsey, 
 
 CO. Lincoln, p. 139 
 
 I John, I. 251 
 
 Home, Richard, I. 42 
 
 Horwode, Fulk de, I. 183 
 
 Houdelowe, Thomas, apprentice of John de 
 
 Depham, I. 26 
 Howe, John, I. 212 
 HuUe, "Huwe"de, I. 171 
 , Robert de, master of a ship called 
 
 "Lajulianne" of London, L 5, 13, 54 
 Hynxstworthe, John, Sheriff of Essex and 
 
 Herts, IL 63 
 
 Ilkestone, William de. Rector of St. Mary le- 
 
 Bow, I. 78 
 Ilyngham, Henry, merchant of the Hanse of 
 
 Almaine, I. 213 
 Innocent VI., Pope, L 250 
 Irysshe, Adam, L 264 
 
 Isendyk, John de, of Neuport, Flanders, I. 152 
 " Isenli," Gunrard, called, citizen of Basle, 
 
 L 17s 
 Islip, Simon, Abp. of Canterbury, 1. 12, 276 
 
 Janys, Gomez, of Lisbon, L 214 
 
 John n.. King of France, a prisoner, L 250 
 
 Jonessone, John, " van Brugge de Durdright," 
 
 I- 243 
 Jordan, John, I. 83, 84, 91 
 Juel, Gilbert, " brasour," p. 35 
 Julian, John, p. 149 
 , Giles, son of the above, p. 149 
 
 Kaytone, Robert de. Common Sergeant, I, 276 
 
 Keheye, Giles de, tapicer, p. 139 
 
 Kelshuli, Walter de, tailor, 1. 107 
 
 Kelsterne, Walter de, burgess of York, I. 18 
 
 Kent, John, cordvvainer, IL 38 
 
 Kenteys, William, I. 207 
 
 Ketle, Ralph, of " Fawkenham," co. Kent, 
 
 II. 25 
 
 , John, son of the above, II. 2$ 
 
 King, Stephen, girdler, p. 155 
 
 Knight, John, master of the ship called "My- 
 
 ghel de Wenetone," I. 245 
 Knyf, Tydeman, I. 38 
 Knyghtcote, John de, mercer, I. 56 
 Koo, Gilbert, II. 9 
 Kyslyngbury, John de, I. 12 
 , Joan, daughter of the above, I. 12 
 
 Labbot, Standone, of Bordeaux, I. 40 
 Lancaster, Henry, Duke of, I. 129 
 
 Duke of, II. 56 
 
 Langeford, Sir William de, Knt., II. 26 
 Langham, Simon, Abp. of Canterbury, II. 10 
 Lanyns, Elizabeth, II. 15 
 Laurenz, Janin, II. 52, 73 
 Leante, William, p. 74 
 
 , Margaret, wife of the above, p. 74 
 
 Lecchesfeld, William de, I. 168 
 
 Le Clerk, William, of Waterford, I. 164 
 
 Ledbury, Agnes de, wife of Thomas de Bolyng- 
 
 ton, I. 260 
 Lee, John atte, the King's Steward, II. 29 
 
 Leget, Robert, II. 44 
 
 , Margaret, widow of the above, II. 
 
 44 
 Legh, Philip de, notary, I. 246 
 Leghe, Thomas atte, II. i 
 Lemman, John, I. 68 
 Lenham, Emond de, I. 68 
 Lentee, Edmund, of Norwich, I. 172 
 Lercedekene, Dame Maude, II. 38 
 Lesseley, Walter de, Knt., I. 246 
 Leycestre, Thomas de, I. 56 
 
 William de, p. 138 
 
 Peter, son of the above, p. 138 
 
 Leye (?), John de, IL 37 
 Lincoln, Robert de, I. 158 
 
 Anable, wife of the above, I. 158 
 
 Simon de, I. 160 
 
 Litte], John, I. 74 
 
 Littlington, Nicholas, Abbot of Westminster, 
 
 n. S3 
 
 Lodelowe, William de, I. 42 
 Lofte, John atte, of York, I. 1 14 
 Lokhom, John, of Meath, Ireland, I. 196 
 London, Bishop of. Vitie Sudbury. 
 
 , Simon de, draper, II. 65 
 
 , Alice, widow of the above, II. 65 
 
 Longeneye, John, fishmonger, II. 36 
 
 Lotys, Nigrus, de Vynsona, II. 48 
 
 Loughton, Henry, I. 230 
 
 Love, " Reingnald," I. 242 
 
 Loveityn, John, I. 203, 212, 280; II. 7 
 
 Lychefeld, William, pouch maker, p. 143 
 
 Lyderer, Henry, of the Isle of Thanet, I. 125 
 
 Lyes, Robert, of Hales, co. Salop, I. 236 
 
 Lyghterfeld, the lord of, I. 197 
 
 Lykhom, John, brewer, II. 57 
 
 Lyncoln, John de, " corsour," II. 58 
 
 Robert de, I. 61 
 
 Thomas de, of Lynn, co. Norfolk, 
 
 I. 261 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 26t 
 
 Lyndelowe, Thomas, merchant of " Beverle," 
 
 CO. York, I. 186 
 Lynton, Thomas de, of Nottingham, II. 39 
 
 , Alice, daughter of the above, II. 39 
 
 Lyverpol, John de, I. 262 
 
 , William de, goldsmith, brother of the 
 
 above, I. 262 
 
 Machenare, William, of Bruges, I. 229 
 Madenhuthe, John de, I. 82 
 Maghfeld, Gilbert, II. 34 
 Maior, William, p. 123 
 
 Stephen, son of the above, p. 123 
 
 Malegn, Arnald de, merchant, I. 257 
 Malewayn, John, 1. 152 
 
 , William, I. 108, 269 
 
 Maleyt, John, I. 244 
 
 Mailing, Abbess of, I. 20 
 
 Mallyng, John, " smyth," p. 123 
 
 Maners, Peter, I. 232, p. 107 
 
 Manyngfeld, Robert de, I. 7 
 
 Mapel, William, p. 136; II. 4, 23, 30 
 
 March, Earl of, p. 67 
 
 Marchant, Richard, II. 2 
 
 , Agnes, wife of the above, II. 2 
 
i8o 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Marcheme, or Mercherne, Margaret de, I. 83, 
 
 84, 91 
 Mare, Thomas de la, Abbot of St. Albans, 
 
 I. 88, note, 112, 169 
 Marestaple, Jacob, I. 92 
 
 Masselyn, John, of Thurleigh, co. Beds, II. 41 
 
 , Geffrey, son of the above, II. 41 
 
 Maury, Richard, Abbot of Medelton or Milton 
 
 Abbots, CO. Dorset, I. 202 
 Maydestone, Adam, fripperer, p. 35 
 Mayllebayl, Antoin, I. 15 
 Mede, John atte, de Storteford, co. Herts, 
 
 1.263 
 Medenhoe, Peter, of Bruges, I. 36 
 Meldebourne, Gilbert de, I. 99 
 Merable, Richard, p. 56 
 Merynton, Henry, of Coventry, II. 2 
 Meryweder, William, II. 70, 72 
 Met, William, I. 77 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 77 
 
 Mey, Jacob, of Bruges, II. 44 
 Mighelsone, John, I. 197 
 Mildenhale, Peter de, pelterer, I. 272 
 
 , Thomas de, ironmonger, I. 234 
 
 Mokkyng, John, I. 5, 13 
 Molyneus, Dygon de, I. 273 
 Mordon, John, stockfishmonger, I. 266 
 Mordone, Ralph de, I. 171 
 
 , Simon de, I. 248; II. 59, 66 
 
 More, John atte, burgess of Bruges, I. 156 
 
 , Richard atte, I. 196 
 
 Robert de la, II. 52 
 
 Moret, William, merchant of Amiens, 
 
 II. 50 
 Morteyn, Thomas, I. 112 
 Morton, Ralph de, I. 224 
 
 , William de, weaver, p. 61 
 
 Mos, Richard, of Yarmouth, II. 20 
 Mot, John, de Fobbyngge, II. 10 
 Moundeville, Phihp, I. 147 
 Mountagu, Edward de, Knt., I. 238 
 Mountkoy, John, I. 61 
 
 Moyen, Peter, merchant of Valentia, Spain, 
 
 I. 121 
 Murchebek, Reyner van, I. 60 
 Muriel, William, I. 133 
 Mutford, John de, I. 86 
 Mydford, John de, I. 151 
 Mympe, Robert, drover, II. 49 
 Mynot, Michael, I. 41 
 
 Nafferton, William de, II. 64 
 
 Nandoun, Pieres, de Mendye, I. 50 
 
 Nasshe, John atte, master of a ship called 
 
 " La Crislemasse," I. 73 
 Neubery, John de, baker, I. 98 
 , William de, clerk of the chapel of 
 
 St. Thomas upon London Bridge, 
 
 I. 142 
 Neuburgh, William de, II. I 
 Neuport, William, fishmonger, II. 29 
 Neuton, Geffrey, II. 52 
 
 , Philip de, I. 246 
 
 , William de, brother of the above, 
 
 I. 246 
 Neville, " Eleyne," mother of Richard, I. 117 
 
 Neville, Richard, son of "Eleyne," I. 117 
 
 Newenton, William de, I. 74 
 
 Nichole, John, I. 270 
 
 Nogan, Bartholomew, of Great Yarmouth, 
 II. 36, 42 
 
 Nokette, Thomas atte, draper, II. 32 
 
 Nore, John atte, I. 67 
 
 Norhamtone, John, common clerk of the town 
 of Oxford, I. 148 
 
 Northbury, Richard, II. 68 
 
 Northerne, Thomas, I. 216 
 
 Norton, John de, draper, II. 65 
 
 , William de, saddler, p. 128 
 
 Norwich, Bishop of. Vide Percy, Thomas. 
 
 Notekyn, John, of " Brandon Eery," co. Suf- 
 folk, II. 65 
 
 Notyngham, Thomas de, I. 200, 254, 256 
 
 Nyweman, William, tanner, II. 45 
 
 Odierne, John, I. 68 
 Oliver, Emond, I. 22 
 
 , Esmond, merchant, II. 51 
 
 , John, burgess of Colchester, I. 3, 6, 
 
 24 
 Ouen, John Hunger van, I. 210 
 Oxenford, Robert de, burgess of Bristol, I. 80 
 
 Paket, John, I. 146 
 
 Palmer, John, of Canterbury, barber, I. 64 
 
 Paneter, George le, of Oxford, I. 10 
 
 Panetrye, Roger de la, I. 9 
 
 Parker, John, burgess of Faversham, co. Kent, 
 
 I. 61 
 Pary, Peter de, girdler, pp. 67, 70 
 Parys, Jordan de, I. 116 
 Pascolf, Ode, of Tregony, II. 33 
 Pateneye, John de, I. 19 
 
 , Agnes, wife of the above, I. 19 
 
 Patrik, John, II. 33 
 
 Payn, Bernard, burgess of Bordeaux, I. 155 
 
 Pelegrym, John, merchant of Sluys, I. 124 
 
 Pembroke, Countess of, p. 128 
 
 Penbrigge, Robynet, II. 52 
 
 Ptnne, John, draper, I. 200 
 
 Penshur>te, Henry, I. 183 
 
 Percy, Thomas, Bishop ol Norwich, I. 253 
 
 Peres, William, de Blakemore, I. 271 
 
 Perler, Robert, I. 164 
 
 Persone, Walter, p. 127 
 
 Peterborough, Abbot of. Vide Ramsey, Robt. 
 
 Petyrsone, Gostyne, of Dordrecht, I. 244 
 
 Peuirer. Nicholas, I. 207 
 
 Philipot, John, II. 51 
 
 Piel, John, p. 127 
 
 Pierssone, Laurence, II. II 
 
 Pitteman, Gerard, de Harderwyk, II. 14 
 
 Plastrer, John, of Dordrecht, I. 243 
 
 , John, .son of the above, I. 243 
 
 Plate, Pieres, burgess of Sluys, I. 89 
 
 Ploket, Nicholas, I. 93, 208 
 
 Podcnhale, John de, II. 9 
 
 Pokard, John, I. 176 
 
 Port, Fremond de la, of Northampton, I. 249 
 
 Porter, William, of Liloucester, I. 123 
 
 , Thomas, son of the above, I. 123 
 
 Portien. Vide Purcean. 
 
NAMES OF PERSONS. 
 
 i8i 
 
 Pottere, Roger, I. 57, 76, 92 
 Pouncy, Cristine, I. 259 
 
 Geffrey, I. 259 
 
 , Agnes, wife of the above, I. 259 
 
 Pountfreit, John de, I. 224 
 Pountfreyt, William de, I. no 
 Powe, Roger, mercer, I. 227 
 Prentys, John, of Reading, dyer, II. 65 
 
 William, II. 9 
 
 Prest, John, the younger, of Glastonbury, II. 60 
 Preston, John de, corder, I. 80 
 
 , Richard de, II. 42 
 
 Prot, Ralph, fishmonger, II. 12 
 
 Pulter, Roland, I. 201 
 
 Purcean, Jean de Chastillon, Comte de, II. 48 
 
 Pursele, Robert de, I. 35 
 
 Putte, Albert del, merchant of Almaine, 
 
 I. 125 
 Pycard, Henry, Alderman, I. 29, 44, 45 
 
 , Henry, I. 254, 256 
 
 Pyeke, Thomas, draper, I. 103, 104 
 Pykenham, John, II. 18 
 
 , John, the younger, II. 40 
 
 Pykerell, Agnes, p. 125 
 
 Pynk, Robert, S.T.D., Provincial Prior of the 
 
 Order of Preaching Friars in England, 
 
 I. 241 
 
 Quycham, John, II. 40 
 
 Rackele, John, I. 178 
 Radeclive, John de, I. 265 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 265 
 
 Ralee, Simon, I. 202 
 
 Raleghe, John, I. 275 
 
 Ram, Thomas atte, brewer, II. 57 
 
 Ramsey, Robert, Abbot of Peterborough, I. 158 
 
 , Robert de, fishmonger, I. 218 
 
 Randeck, Marquard (surnamed Nordling), 
 
 Patriarch of Aquileia, II. 48 
 Raughtone, William de, p. 75 
 Rede, Aleyn de, master of a ship called " La 
 
 Gerlaund" of Wrangle, I. 22 
 Reg, John, currier, I. 223 
 Remmakere, John, of Sluys, I. 92 
 Resteleyh, Thomas, I. 5, 13, 14 
 Restor, John, I. 113, 131 
 , Matthew, guldsmith, brother of the 
 
 above, I. 113 
 Retford, William de, I. 277 
 Retyn, John, I. 60 
 
 Reule, Wynaud de, burgess of Bruges, I. 17, 26 
 Reynald, the King's searcher, II. 10 
 Reyner, Hugh, II. 56 
 Roderici, Ferando, I. 214 
 Rokeby, Henry de, p. 82 
 Rolf, William, " shipman," I. 192 
 
 , Alice, wife of the above, I. 192 
 
 Romayns, William, II. 24 
 
 Juliana, wife of the above, II. 24 
 
 \ , John, son of William, II. 24 
 
 Rose, John, I. 184 
 
 , Richard, tailor, II. 71 
 
 , Robert, p. 83 
 
 , Thomas, I. 144 
 
 Rothyng, Ralph de, girdler, p. 138 
 
 Rotour, Roger, I. 63, 102 
 Roughton, John de, I. 185 
 Roxstone, Geffrey de, butcher, II. 62 
 Ruget, Peter, armourer, p. 56 
 Russe, Robert, brasier, pp. 83, 133 
 Rys, John, " de Beverlee," p. 78 
 
 Sadelere, William, p. 82 
 
 , John, son of the above, p. 82 
 
 St. Albans, Robert de, p. 64 
 
 , Roger, son of the above, p. 64 
 
 St. Edmund, Aymer, Lord of " Ildeslee," 
 
 p. 76 
 St. John, Robert de, I. 158 
 , Cristine, daughter of the above, 
 
 L158 
 , Rose, another daughter of the above, 
 
 I. 158 
 Sak, John, master of a ship of Flanders, 
 
 I. 125 
 Salerne, Simon, I. 193 
 
 Salkyn, John, of the Isle of Thanet, I. 125 
 
 Salman, John, I, 152, 183 
 
 Salmon, Walter, girdler, I. 149 
 
 Sandwyz, John de, I. 32 
 
 Sarum, William de, p. 50 
 
 Savage, Richard, I. 140 
 
 Scof, John, burgess of Dendermond, in 
 
 Flanders, I. 7 
 Scotelare, Peter, of Bruges, I. 176 
 Scurlag, Richard, II. 52 
 Seint Albon, John, "pynnere," I. 182 
 Serle, Richard, currier, II. 63 
 Seuffuscien, or Seuffusicyen, Sire Johan, II. 18 
 Sewale, John de, II. 7 
 Sexteyn, John, of " Fawkenham," co. Kent, 
 
 II. 25 
 
 Shadewell, Adam de, goldsmith, I. 164 
 
 Sharshulle, William de. King's Justice, I. 122 
 
 Shilyngtone, Robert de, I. Ill, I12 
 
 Shipstede, Adam de, I. 193 
 
 Shorne, Walter, of Great Stanmere, CO. Mid- 
 dlesex, I. 51, 58, 62 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 51, 58, 62 
 
 Shute, William atte, I. 165 
 
 Sket, Henry, stockfishmonger, I. 268 
 
 Skynner, Peter, of Greenwich, I. 223 
 
 , Nicholas, son of the above, I. 223 
 
 Philip le, I. 231 
 
 Smart, William, "smyth," I. 264 
 
 Smelt, Richard, p. 13 
 
 Smyth, William le, I. 32 
 
 Snewe, Hugh, II. 8 
 
 Snow, Dykman, I. 205 
 
 Sogham, Richard de, I. 35 
 
 Somboume, Phelipot, burgess of Chichester, 
 I. 63 
 
 Sonday, John, II. 9 
 
 Southam, John, II. 44 
 
 Southerman, Hildebrand, I. 37 
 
 Southeme, Hugh, I. 240 
 
 Spenser, Geffrey le, parson of St. Margaret, 
 Friday Street, II. 38 
 
 Spice, Clement, I. 265 
 
 Spicer, John, burgess of Winchelsea, I. 173 
 
 Sprag, Henry, II. 27 
 
l82 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Sprot, John, butcher, II. 62 
 
 Sprynget, William, II. 38 
 
 Spynathe, Peter, master of a ship of Sluys, 
 
 I. 136 
 Stable, Adam, mercer, I. 173" 
 Stafford, Earl of, p. 67 ; I. 219 
 
 Thomas de, I. 53, 233 
 
 , Alice, widow of the above, I. 233 
 
 Stalbrugge, Hugh, II. 45 
 
 Stalyn, Arnaud, I. 155 
 
 Stanesfeld, Ralph de, I. 166 
 
 Stanfeld, Ralph de, fellmonger, I. 129 
 
 Stanford, Thomas de, I. 158 
 
 ; . . , Anable, wife of the above, widow of 
 
 Robert de Lincoln, I. 158 
 Stantlee, William de, I. 217 
 Staverne, Henry, p. 50 
 Stayndrope, Gilbert de, I. 19 
 Agnes, wife of the above, widow of 
 
 John de Pateneye, I. 19 
 
 , Gilbert de. Sheriff of London, I. 72 
 
 Stodeye, John de, I. 165 
 
 , John de, vintner, I. 232; p. 107 
 
 , John de, II. 50 
 
 Stoke, John de, servant of John de Coventre, 
 
 1-34 
 
 , John de, burgess of Bristol, I. 135 
 
 , John de, " hakeneyman," I. 179 
 
 Stokes, John de, captain of St. Sauveur in 
 
 Normandy, II. 6 
 
 , Thomas de, I. 10 
 
 Stokesby, William de, taveraer, I. 236 
 Stokyngbury, John, fishmonger, p. 130; I. 274 
 Stonham, Richard, butcher, II. 62 
 Stottesburgh, Nicholas, master of a ship called 
 
 "Godosknygth," I. 190 
 Stratford, Simon atte, glover, p. 155 
 Streit, Roger, I. 230 
 Strete, William, the King's "botiller," II. 52, 
 
 73 
 Stryke, William, I. 259 
 
 , Margery, daughter of the above, I. 259 
 
 Stukle, Nicholas, Sheriff of Cambridge and 
 
 Huntingdon, I. 274 
 Sturgeon, John, pouch maker, p. 1 55 
 Sudbury, Simon de, Bp. of London, I. 211, 
 
 259, 260 
 Suthewelle, Henry de, I. 42 
 Sutton, Henry de. Bailiff of South wark, I. 122 
 Swafham, Roger de, friar mendicant, I. 157 
 Syward, John, I. 207 
 
 Talleyrand, Elias, Bp. of Albano, I. 250 
 Talmars, Peter, burgess of Amiens, II. 18 
 Taunton, Henry de, burgess of Calais, I. 231 
 Tavemer, Richard, of " Ikelyngtone," I. 138 
 
 , Agnes, wife of the above, I. 138 
 
 Tayllour, Adam, of Maidstone, I. 225 
 Tesdale, John de, saddler, I. 141 
 Thame, William de, I. 42 
 Thamworthe, Sir Nicholas, Knt., II. 56 
 Thecchere, John, p. 150 
 Thomasyn, Nicholas, I. 170 
 Thornecombe, Thomas de, I. 147 
 Thorpe, Robert de, Justice in co. Cambridge, 
 p. 40 
 
 Todenham, William, I. 277 ; II. 6 
 Tornegold, John, I. 238 
 
 , John the younger, I. 43, 46 
 
 Tour, William de la, merchant of " Seint 
 
 Makary," I. 40 
 Touyle, John, II. 43 
 Trenewych, Ralph, I. 207 
 Trewelove, Nicholas, of Oxford, fishmonger, 
 
 I. 148 
 Triple, John de, I. log, 113, 131 
 
 , Richard, fishmonger, II. 12 
 
 Tristram, Adam, of Hitchin, co. Herts, p. 38 
 Truseux, John de, merchant of Amiens, II. 50 
 
 , Tebaud de, merchant of Amiens, II. 50 
 
 Tubbe, William, de Leycestre, p. 128 
 Tudenham. Vide Todenham. 
 Turtel, Roger, burgess of Bristol, I. 41 
 Tutyngton, Stephen de, parson of " Hege- 
 
 strete " (Hessett ?), diocese of Norwich, 
 
 I- 253 
 Tyngewyk, George, I. 202 
 
 Umfreville, Gilbei't de. Earl of Angos, I. 108 
 Underwode, John, mercer, I. 16 
 
 , John, junior, p. 75 
 
 Urban V., Pope, I. 211, 241 
 
 Vanderhallen, Peter, I. 188 
 
 , Jacob, son of the above, I. 188, 189 
 
 Vandewale, Michael, II. 34, 35 
 Vanecloistre, Giles, of Flanders, I. 168 
 Vannamen, John, burgess of BrugeSj I. 170 
 Vannere, John, I. 68 
 Van the Melne, Diedrich, saddler, I. 215, 
 
 226 
 
 , Agatha, wife of the above, I. 226 
 
 Van the Thome, Arnold, of Lubeck, II. 13 
 Ville, John de, clerk of the Lady Queen Blanche 
 
 of France, I. 273 
 Villebeon, Pierre de, I. 252 
 Villeboen, Perrinet de, I. 273 
 Vylers, Thomas, II. 51 
 
 Wagendorp, Tydeman, burgess of " Melnyng 
 
 in Sprucia," I. 183 
 Wake, Thomas de. Lord of Blisworth, co. 
 
 Northampton, p. 128 
 Waleworth, William de, I. 280 
 Waleys, Austyn, I 171 
 
 , " Maute," wife of the above, I. 171 
 
 Walkerne, John de, I. 8 
 
 , Lucy, wife of the above, I. 8 
 
 Walraven, John, " chapeler," II. 41 
 
 Walshe, John, I. 138 
 
 Walsshe, Philip le, I. 272 
 
 Walsshman, Simon, II. 8 
 
 Walton, Henry de. Archdeacon of Richmond, 
 
 CO. York, I. 58 
 
 Henry, of Bristol, I. 235 
 
 Wandlesworth, William de, I. 75 
 Wantynche, Geffrey de, burgess of Bruges, 
 
 L 191, 199 
 
 , Agatha, widow of the above, I. 191 
 
 Warde, John, p. 75 
 Ware, Hugh de, p. 109 
 Simon de, I. 215, 226 
 
NAMES OF PERSONS. 
 
 183 
 
 Ware, Katherine, wife of Simon de, I. 226 
 
 1 Thomas de, I. 73 
 
 , William, I. 187 
 
 Warre, J. de, p. 56 
 
 Warren, Countess of. Vide Garenne. 
 
 Warwick, Earl of. Vide Beauchamp. 
 
 Waryn, William, mercer, II. 21, 22 
 
 , William, draper, son of the above, 
 
 II. 21, 22 
 Wastel, John, I. 271 
 Wayneflet, William, master of a ship called 
 
 " La Goode Tyme " of Yarmouth, 
 
 I. 185 
 Welde, John de, fishmonger, I. 32 
 
 , William, alderman, I. 29 
 
 Welles, John, leatherseller, p. 124 
 Welton, John de, friar mendicant, I. 157 
 Welwes, Henry, draper, I. 200 
 Werde, Robert, p. 83 
 Wesenhara, John de, I. 115 
 Westone, Elys de, butcher, II. 62 
 
 , John de, draper, I. 41 
 
 Wharf, John atte, I. 39 
 
 Whit, Richard, burgess of Sandwich, I. 160 
 
 White, John le, I. 126 
 
 , Stephen, I. 255 
 
 Whytefeld, John de, I. 276 
 
 Winchester, Bishop of. Vide Edyngton, 
 
 Witton, Simon de, I. 69 
 
 Wodeby, Roger, I. 136 
 
 Woderove, Roger, of co. Norfolk, pp. 67, 
 
 70 
 , Stephen, son of the above, p. 67 
 
 Wolford, Gilbert, I. 275 
 
 Wolmere, Robert, of Bishops Hatfield, co. 
 
 Herts, II. 63 
 Wolmersty, Thomas de. Abbot of Waltham 
 
 Holy Cross, I. 271 
 Wolney, Henry, of Coventry, II. 2 
 
 , Agnes, wife of the aii>ove, II. 2 
 
 Worin, William, of " Groveham," I. 222 
 
 Wortham, Maude de, I. 115 
 
 Worthin, John, a preaching friar, I. 15 
 
 Worthingpol, William, p. 70 
 
 Wroth, John, Sheriff, I. 72 
 
 Wroxham, Adam de, mercer, I. 261 
 
 Wryghte, Thomas, I. 205 
 
 Wycheford, William, of Salisbury, I. 227 
 
 Wylford, Thomas, fishmonger, I. 245 
 
 Wylyngham, John, I. 244 
 
 Wymborne, Henry de, burgess of Faversham, 
 
 I. 61 
 Wymondham, Adam de, mercer, I. 116 
 
 Adam, Sheriff of London, II. 56 
 
 Wyncestre, William, cordwainer, I. 128 
 
 , John, son of the above, I. 128 
 
 Wynefeld, Matthew, of Doncaster, p. 125 
 Wynkfeld, Thomas de, steward of the Countess 
 
 of "Garenne," I. 68 
 Wynselowe, John de, I. 112 
 Wynter, Alexander, hurer, II. 25 
 Wyrdrawere, Walter, I. 182 
 Wyrehale, John de, water bailiff, II. 14 
 Wytegood, John, I. 277 
 
 Zabeke, William van, I. 18 
 
NAMES OF PLACES. 
 
 Abingdon, co. Berks, p. 124 
 
 Almaine, Hanse of, I. 74, note, 137, 213 
 
 Alton, CO. Hants, II. 33 
 
 Amiens, II. 19, 50 
 
 Avignon, I. 15 
 
 Axel, in Flanders, I. 174 
 
 Aylesbury, I. 106 
 
 Babraham, co. Cambridge, I. 146 
 Barkway, co. Herts, I. 240 
 Barton-upon-Humber, I. 59, 143, 150, 159, 
 
 224, 237 
 Basil or Basle, I. 1 75 
 Bayeux, I. 207 
 Bayonne, I. 47, 50; II. 20 
 Bedford, p. 155 
 Berflete, in Flanders, I. 195 
 Bethlehem or Bedlem, Hospital of, II. l6, 17 
 Birmingham, I. 25 
 Bordeaux, I. 13, 40, 257 ; II. 20 
 Boston, CO. Lincoln, I. 82, 163 
 Bratnber, co. Sussex, II. 51 
 Brancaster, I. 21 
 Bristol, I. S, 13. 19, 37. 4'. 80, 107, 117, 135, 
 
 p. 150; II. 68 
 Bruges, I. 17, 26, 36, 37, 54, 57, 64, 73, 74, 
 
 76, 92, p. 108, 113, 131, 162, 168, 
 
 170, 180, 188, 191, 194, 197 ; II. 22, 46 
 Brussels, I. 60, 181 
 Burford, I. 221 
 Bury St. Edmunds, I. 42, 234 
 
 Caen, I. 207 
 
 Calais, I. 171,231, 256,259, 272; II. I, 18, 
 
 ^5' 32 „ . 
 
 Cambridge, p. 56, I. 81, p. 83, p. 124, 146 ; 
 
 II. 8 
 Canterbury, I. 94, p. 136, p. 150, 182 ; II. 27, 
 
 56,65 
 Caustone, co. Norfolk, p. 149 
 Caxton, CO. Cambridge, p. 130, p. 134, 
 
 1.274 
 Chepstow, CO. Monmouth, I. 87 
 Chester, p. 127, I. 232 
 Chichester, I. 63, p. 123 
 Clacton, CO. Essex, I. 260 
 Colchester, I. 3, 6, 24, 28, p. 74, 79, 230 
 Collingboume, I. 23 
 Comptone, I. 147 
 Conteshale, II. 6 
 
 Copenhagen, I. 248 
 
 Cornwall, I. 207 
 
 Coventry, I. 38, 130 ; II. 2 
 
 Croydon, I. 77, p. 143 
 
 Crundale, co. Southampton, I. 147 
 
 Damme, in Flanders, I. 155 
 Dartmouth, I. 176 
 Dendermond, I. 7 
 Denmore, manor of, I. 30 
 Dinant, I. 137 
 Doncaster, I. 217 
 Dordrecht, I. 243, 244, 254, 256 
 Dorking, I. 68 
 Dover, I. 2, 56, p. 75 
 Drogheda, Ireland, I. 255 
 Dublin, I. 138, 166 
 Dunkirk, I. 27, 126, 251, 258 
 Dunstaple, p. 84 
 
 Edinburgh, II. 35 
 Edyngtone, I. 270 
 Erith, I. 242 
 Everwyk. Vide York. 
 Exeter, I. 49 ; II. 67 
 
 Faversham, co. Kent, I. 61, 100, loi, p. 138; 
 
 II. 70, 72 
 Florence, I. I, 4, 44, 45, 247 
 Flushing, I. 248 
 Friesland, II. 13, 20 
 
 Ghent, I. 18 
 
 Gloucester, I. 30, 84, 91, 123, p. 133, 236 
 
 Grimsby, I. 8 
 
 Guildford, I. 275 
 
 Harfleur, I. 207 
 
 Haryngeye, co. Middlesex, I. 88 
 
 Hastings, I. 139 
 
 Hatfield Regis, co. Essex, I. 260 
 
 Havering-at- Bower, co. Essex, p. $6 
 
 Hegestrete (Hessett?), diocese of Norwich, 
 
 I- 253 
 Henley, I. 31 
 
 Hitchin, co. Herts, I. 77; II. 62 
 Horsham, co. Sussex, I. 67 
 Huntingdon, I. 95, 134 
 
 Ipswich, I. 96, 103, 104, 119 
 
NAMES OF PLACES. 
 
 185 
 
 Kingston, I. 106 
 Kingston-upon-HuU, I. 73 
 Kirkley, co. Suffolk, I. 245; 11. 20 
 Kyme, lordship of, I. 108 
 
 La Chaumbre, co. Surrey, I. 147 
 
 Langele, co. Middlesex, I. 88 
 
 Langley, IL 60 
 
 Leicester, p. 70, I. 262 
 
 Leith, II. 35 
 
 Lewes, co. Sussex, II. 51 
 
 Lincoln, p. 74, p. 138; II. 71 
 
 Lisbon, I. 214 
 
 Lowestoft, p. 78 
 
 Luton, I. 32 
 
 Lynn, I. 8, 35, p. 56, p. 64, p. 78, 133, 235, 256 
 
 Maidenhead, I. 264 
 Maidstone, I. 118, 225; II. 57 
 Maldon, I. 97 
 
 Masys, Castle of, "en Constantyn," I. 207 
 Melewyk, I. 218 
 Melnyng, in Prussia, I. 183 
 Middelburgh, in Zealand, I. 233 
 Munestoke, co. Southampton, I. 48 
 
 Newcastle-on-Tyne, I. 86, 141, 167, 203, 222; 
 
 II. 40, 43, 61 
 Neweport, in Flanders, I. 212, 280 
 Northampton, p. 124, I. 249, 278 
 Norwich, I. 172 
 Nottingham, II. 39 
 
 Orewell, I. 212 
 
 Oxford, L 10, p. 61, p. 67, p. 70,83, p. 138, 
 148, 165, 187, 198; II. 7. 59 
 
 Penrith, p. 125 
 Pevensey, I. 192 
 Plymouth, I. 43, 46 
 
 Queenhithe, II. 28 
 
 Reading, I. 93, 106, 179 ; II. 66 
 Rochester, I. 69, 70, p. 125 ; II. 69' 
 Rouen, I. 207 
 Rye, I. 216 
 
 St. Albans, co. Herts, I. 39, 88, 90, in, 169 
 St. Botolph's Town. Vide Boston, co. Lincoln. 
 St. Ives, fair at, I. 138 
 St. Makary, I. 40 
 St. Neots, CO. Huntingdon, II. 62 
 St. Sauveur la Viscounte, II. 6 
 St. Valery. Vide St.Walrik. 
 St. Walrik, Picardy, I. 72 
 Salisbury, I. 149; II. 37, 45 
 Sandwich, I. 17, 43, 46, 7i. P- 82, 98, 115, 
 p. 116, 160, 177, 206, 254 
 
 Sarum, New, co. Wilts, I. 75 ; II. 45 
 
 Scheldt, I. 73 
 
 Serice, in Zealand, I. 16 
 
 Sewell, CO. Northampton, I. 78 
 
 Sheeld, La. Vide Scheldt. 
 
 Shenley, co. Herts, I. 219 
 
 Skelton, co. York, I. 66 
 
 Sleford, co. Lincoln, p. 5' 
 
 Sluys, I. 27, 54, 57, 85, 89, 124, 155, 156 
 
 IL II, 15 
 Smithfield, II. 62 
 Southampton, L 102, 116, p. 123, 136, p. 136 
 
 p. 139, 161, 261, 267, 269, 277; 
 
 n. 123 
 South Weald, co. Essex, I. 271 
 Stamford, co. Lincoln, I. 279 
 Stanford Rivei-s, I. 219 
 Stanmere, Great, co. Middlesex, I. 51, 58, 
 
 62 
 Stenning, co. Sussex, p. 150 
 Strood, CO. Kent, I. 225 
 Sutton, p. 61 
 Swansea, I. 208; II. 52 
 Swathelinge, co. Southampton, II. 55 
 
 Thakstede, co. Essex, II. 54 
 
 Thame, I. 34 
 
 Thanet, Isle of, I. 54, 125 
 
 Thetforde, co. Norfolk, p. 84 
 
 Thome, in Prussia (Poland?), I. 190 
 
 Torksey, co. Lincoln, pp. 74) 128 
 
 Tournelles les Villemarchaz, in Gastinoys, 
 
 I. 252, 273 
 TykhuUe, Priory of, co. York, I. 140 
 
 Utrecht, I. 215, 226 
 
 Valentia, Aragon, Spain, I. 121 
 Venice, I. 246 
 
 Wales, I. 13, 14 
 Warbletone, co. Sussex, I. 268 
 Ware, I. 114, 117; II. 58 
 Wilgrip', II. 28 
 
 Winchelsea, I. 27, 173, 174, 184, 193 
 Winchester, I. 53, 63, 109, p. 139, 147, 
 227 
 
 Soke, I. 147 
 
 Windsor, p. 133 
 
 Woburn Chapel, co. Beds, I. 128 
 
 Wodeham, I. 97 
 
 Worcester, I. 266 
 
 Wrangle, I. 22 
 
 Yarmouth, I. 16, 99, 245 ; II. 42, 47 
 
 , East, I. 205 ; II. 5 
 
 Great, I. 185, 212; II. 20, 36 
 
 York, p. 56, I. 120 
 Ypres, in Flanders, I. 279 
 
LONDON ; PRINTED BY JOHN C. FRANCIS, TOOK's COURT, E.G.