Flyleaf
(Note at head:) Appointment of subprior of Finchale, etc, f.24[v]
Digitised version

Flyleaf   12 June 1527
Suspension by Hugh, prior of Durham, lawfully deputed collector of the subsidy recently granted to the king in the convocation of the clergy of both provinces, suspending and placing under ecclesiastical interdict the church of Staindrop, Durham diocese, for its non-payment of four marks for the fourth part of the subsidy or half.
Date: 12 June 1527.
Digitised version

Slip inserted between flyleaf and f.1   [early 16th century]
Note Tithes of the fisheries of the parish of Berwick[-on-Tweed], the five shoots (schwtes) of Eddermoth and the tithe thereof, Northzayrrowstell', Northzayrrow, Hwndwater, Abstell, Berwickstream, Brayd, Orett and the stream above it, Twtyngforth, Newater, Calet , Hallowstell (Haldstell), Outwaterstell, Crabe, Proppys. Total £50.
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f.1r   [?1446]
(Upper margin:)
[The letter] l; Register from the time of Mr W[illiam] Ebchester and of Mr Robert Ebchester, priors.
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f.1r   [c.1519]
(Inserted at foot of page [in the hand of Thomas Swalwell]:)
Third small register from the time of W[illiam] Ebchester, John Burnby, Richard Bel' and Mr Robert Ebchester, priors
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f.1r   6 August 1446
Memorandum that four quittances concerning the yearly pensions owed to the chamberlain of Durham were issued, under the prior's long seal, according to the form employed of old and in these words: William, prior of Durham, discharging the provost and rectors of the churches of Hemingbrough, Brantingham and Walkington, and Thomas Rudde, vicar of Welton, for the half of the said pensions, owed to the prior and chamberlain from the provost, rectors and vicar, as for the term of Pentecost last past.
Date: Durham, 6 August 1446.
{The presents dated before ... last past}
Digitised version

f.1r   1 August 1446
Memorandum that one letter to John Kirke [monk of Durham], to send him from the monastery of Durham to the cell or priory of Holy Island, and another to John Birtley [monk of Durham], to bring him back from the said priory to the monastery, were issued in the common form, under the round seal.
Date: Durham, 1 August 1446.
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f.1r-v   15 August [?1446]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Harom, [monk of Durham and] master of Farne Island), relating that certain matters have been brought to his attention by others, which he recites with some sorrow, namely, that John, to whom the rule and care of the cell of Farne Island had been committed, is roaming through the country without respectable company, against the good name of the order, to sell fish and conduct other matters, and is indiscriminately squandering the goods of the said cell (from which he and his associate therein ought to be adequately supported) by [having] separate lodgings among the populace and by other [deeds ?], providing an occasion for reproach. Moreover, like a public tradesman, he is putting up for sale in Bamburgh merchandise received from certain merchants of Newcastle-upon-Tyne at a price twice their value in part payment of his pension [from the farm of Newcastle] [taken] in advance in consequence of his improvidence. By these and the like he brings quite grievous shame to Durham College [Oxford ?] and ridicule and laughter from the inhabitants there, who are prone to reproach. The prior requires and exhorts him, having scorned and abandoned such a manner of living, to be favourable to the dignity of religion, to treat his associate in a brotherly and benevolent manner, to take care that all occasion for obloquy, murmur or slander is removed and that his associate does not have occasion to wander outside the said cell through the country, causing scandal to the order, and to act contrary to the dignity of a monk. He should impress this, the prior's first monition on his heart and carry it out, lest the prior hear further complaint about any similar [actions of his]; if he behaves otherwise, the prior will be compelled unwillingly to charge [him] with these.
Date: Durham, 15 August.
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f.1v-2r   21 August [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Ogle, knight), thanking for his support shown to him and the priors of Coldingham [and Holy] Island and the bursar; reminding him how the bursar in the time of the late prior showed to him certain evidence of one parcel of land, lying between Norham and Shoresworth, called Whiterig, given to them by Hugh, bishop of Durham [see 4.1.Pont.5]. The freeholders of Norham against right have deprived the prior of this, to his injury and the great nuisance of the tenants at Shoresworth. He therefore beseeches him to order this matter to the best of his ability, so that they may possess their right and their tenants occupy the parcel of land, since, as his evidence shows, the prior [and convent] and no others have a right thereto. He further beseeches him when he comes to the country to visit St Cuthbert so that they may discuss this and other matters.
Date: Durham, 21 August.
A nearly identical copy on f.13r.
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f.2r   1 September 1446
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of his fellow monk, Mr John Mody, S.T.P., as master or keeper of the cell of Jarrow, committing its care and administration to him until he has a further mandate from the prior; and commanding all and sundry whom this concerns to obey him as master in all and sundry pertaining to the cell. He is to render an annual faithful account of all receipts and expenses.
Date: Durham, 1 September 1446.
(Later marginal note:) {2 April [14]52}
For an appointment on this latter date see f.51r below.
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f.2r-v   3 September [?1446]
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Rihall' [monk of Durham] dwelling at Lytham), since he resolved that John Barlay [monk of Durham] should be appointed prior of the cell of Lytham, he commands him to obey him as prior in all lawful and honest matters, not grumbling about the serving of food and drink there, considering the weakened state of the priory [and] how in a short time, as he plainly knows, it considerably declined in resources, and knowing that the prior wishes to do justice to him with regard to the rule of his person, whether he is good or bad.
Date: Durham, 3 September.
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f.2v-3r   7 September [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the lord of Fauconberg), having received his letter, recently delivered, about Robert Erghowe, sometime monk of Durham. He is to understand that were Robert a monk of Durham, by the common law and the constitutions of their order he may not receive him again without him being punished for his trespass as an apostate; if he does otherwise, he would commit a great offence against the common law, to his great hurt, which his lordship would not wish. Various of the most learned men of law in England, to whom the matter has been disclosed, have informed him that Robert is a friar and not a monk, and that the prior may not receive him again in the order. This is the answer he and his fellow monks have given to [the bishop] of Durham. He beseeches his lordship to consider how this matter stands and not to be displeased with the prior and his fellow monks, for they will fulfil his wish at all times, as far as they can, preserving their honesty and worship, and the common law allows.
Date: Durham, 7 September.
Related letter: DCD Loc.XXV:66.
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f.3r   1 September 1446
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Moorby [monk of Durham]), stating that, since he resolved to send him from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale, he commands him to direct his steps and remain there. He is to show the presents to the prior there, so that he admits him benevolently.
Date: Durham, 1 September 1446.
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f.3r   1 September 1446
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Whele [monk of Durham]), stating that, since he resolved to send him from his present place to the cell of Wearmouth, he commands him to direct his steps and remain there. He is to show the presents to the prior of Finchale so that he provides him with suitable transportation and expenses, and to the master of Wearmouth so that he admits him benevolently.
Date: Durham, 1 September 1446.
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f.3r-v   18 September 1446
Licence by William, prior of Durham, to John Dorwarde, professed monk of Durham, in priestly orders, agreeing to his request for permission to visit, at his friends' expense, the apostolic see for the welfare of his soul, provided that within a month after the date of the presents he sets off for the sea, to undertake his voyage without delay, and that he returns to the monastery of Durham within a year from the date of the presents, or sooner if convenient, barring legitimate impediment; and requesting all to show favour to John in the expediting of his business.
Date: Durham, 18 September 1446.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.33r.
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f.3v   17 September 1446
Oath (notarized) by John Dorwarde, professed monk of Durham, having sought and obtained licence from his prior to visit the apostolic see for certain legitimate reasons touching his conscience and the welfare of his soul, that he will not procure or attempt (or cause to be procured or attempted by another) [anything] in the Roman curia which might redound against the liberties, statutes, constitutions or privileges of the church or monastery of Durham, or its dependent cells, the prior and chapter or sundry persons thereof, or might tend to the prejudice, harm, detriment or denigration of them; read by John in the chancery of the prior and chapter [on the date below].
Witnesses: Henry Helay, John Gonnerton' William Lyham, William Partrike, Thomas Warde, Thomas Forde, Robert Westmerlande and John Warner', monks of Durham; John Hexham, William Bolton', literati of York and Durham diocese.
Notary: John Berehalgh', N. P.
Date: Durham, 17 September 1446.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.33v.
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f.4r   17 September [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Nevyll', knight), stating that he knows that he is aware that the prior's steward, William Hoton, has died, which is the greatest loss of one that has befallen the prior and his fellow monks, his chaplains, or the monastery or Durham. But since God wills it thus, they must of necessity for many considerations provide themselves with a learned man such as William was, to occupy the said office. The prior, his true bedesman and priest, requests him to give his help and support to them, and charge Robert Rodes to be their steward.
Date: Durham, 17 September.
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f.4r-v   [21 September ?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Roger Thornton'), reminding him of the disagreement between him and John Midilton' about the manor of Healay. Roger has diligently laboured in this matter for a good accord between him and the prior, notwithstanding that John has willfully not yet agreed to this. He and his fellow monks, Roger's true bedesmen, beseech him, trusting him to be their brother of the chapter, to arrange to be at Durham on Tuesday next after Michaelmas with Robert Rodes and others, to reach a final agreement and conclusion in this matter through his mediation and advice. Sir Thomas Nevile will be at Durham on that day, as he has promised.
Date: Durham, St Matthew.
For proceedings over Healey see DCD Reg. IV f.79r-80r.
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f.4v-5r   22 September 1446
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Bloodlatter' alias Cloosterer', of one place or corrody, lately held by John Hertside, in le Meason de dieu for life, receiving what any brother or sister staying therein receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that he observes the obligations of the place. If he fails to observe the statutes and customs, or commits adultery or fornication or marries again, he will be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 22 September 1446.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccix.
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f.5r   1 October 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to Ralph, earl of Westmorland, for £4 for the farm of the lordship of Raby and 20s for the yearly pension owed to the prior and church of Durham for the term of St Cuthbert [4 September] last past.
Date: 1 October 1446.
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f.5r-v   30 September 1446
Commission by William, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Mr John Marchall', B.Cn. & C.L., canon of York Minster and keeper of the said spirituality, to visit the churches of Holtby, Skipwith, Hemingbrough, Howden, Eastrington, Brantingham, Welton and Walkington, their dependent chapels, chantries and other sacred places, and their clergy and people, and to receive and raise the accustomed procurations, and, if necessary, by ecclesiastical censures to compel those refusing to pay, to compound for and receive the accustomed and approved subsidies, whenever the prior or his said commissary are prevented from being present, and to inquire into what has been detected or found [in a visitation] and the penalties contained therein, to levy the penalties and impose future ones, to inquire into, correct and punish any transgressions and faults found there and to do everything necessary for the visitation, since the prior is prevented from being present in person at the visitation, for various, difficult matters of the monastery of Durham; the presents to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 30 September 1446.
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f.5v-6r   4 October [?1446]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marchall') since divine providence unexpectedly called him recently, although he was undeserving, to the cure and rule of the monastery of Durham, which he undertook not from ambition, pride or worldly pomp but at the repeated requests of his fellow monks, he asks him to deign to continue and show towards him the favour and support he often displayed to his predecessor and the monastery of Durham in their affairs. As for the synodal payment to be raised and paid from the rectors and vicars of the churches of his ordinary jurisdiction in Howdenshire or elsewhere in his synod in the collegiate church of Howden, to be held by the prior or his keeper every year, he asks him to refrain from exacting and levying the aforesaid payment from the rectors and vicars, until they can have a personal conversation, when they, once John and the prior's counsel have examined his evidence and privileges, will determine through John's good support what is appropriate in the matter and what should be done. By himself, or a registrar to be substituted in place of the deceased, John should keep the prior's jurisdiction undiminished in the church of Brantingham and in all and sundry churches of the spirituality in the proving of wills, matrimonial cases, the correcting of offences, transgressions and faults, as well as in any other [areas] known to pertain from right, custom or privilege to the prior by virtue of the jurisdiction of the said spirituality. The prior sends a commission [the preceding document] to make a visitation of the churches of the prior's jurisdiction and to compound with the rectors to raise and receive a subsidy in place of procurations; the prior wills that the subsidy be raised on this occasion from the said churches at John's discretion, the visitation having been omitted.
Date: Durham, 4 October.
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f.6r   26 September 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to John Thornton', vicar of the church of Northallerton, for £20, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Martinmas and Pentecost last past by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and customarily paid by the vicar of the church.
Date: Durham, 26 September 1446.
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f.6r-v   31 December 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall [Oxford], for a yearly pension of 10s for the terms of John the Baptist [24 June] and Christmas last past, owed to the prior and monastery of Durham by reason of the appropriation of the church of Longbenton and assigned by the authority of the ordinary.
Date: Durham, 31 December 1446.
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f.6v   5 October 1446
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, to his fellow monks, William Seton' and Thomas Calee, as receivers and bursars of [Durham] College Oxford, with the consent of the warden and according to the intention of the founders, committing to them the disposition of the college's goods. They are to render a faithful account to the prior with the warden for receipts and expenses, and in the college's affairs are personally to labour at the common expense, whenever necessary, according to the determination of the warden and his associates.
Date: Durham, 5 October 1446.
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f.6v   6 October 1446
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], [to the warden of Durham College Oxford], stating that, since he was given to understand that Thomas Ditinsall', lately scholar of [Durham] College Oxford has left, he commands him, if this is the case, to receive John Rudde, clerk, originating in Allertonshire, having been examined and admitted by the prior and his fellow monks, as scholar of the college in place of Thomas before All Saints next. He is to require a bodily oath from him to observe the statutes of the college, in keeping with past custom.
Date: Durham, 6 October 1446.
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f.6v-7v   6 October 1446
Grant by indenture by William, prior of Durham, to William Goldesburgh', for his good service to the prior and the office of chamberlain of Durham, of the office of receiver of all income, profits, perquisites, pensions and money, pertaining to the office of chamberlain, within the lordship of Hemingbrough or elsewhere within the county of York, to be held from Pentecost last past for the five years following, paying yearly, without delay, £14 4s 6d to the then chamberlain or his deputies at four terms of the year, namely, St Peter ad vincula [1 August], All Saints, the Purification of Mary [2 February] and the Invention of the Cross [3 May], along with the remainder of all income, profits [etc., as above]; and rendering yearly to the chamberlain or his deputies at the Invention of the Cross a faithful account of all and sundry receipts arising from the said income, profits [etc.]; receiving yearly 26s 8d for his fee from the said income and profits during the term of five years at the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas, by his own hand. If it should happen that the said William does not fulfil, keep or observe all and sundry aforementioned, then the prior and his successors may discharge him from the said office of receiver at will, notwithstanding this grant. Granting William full authority during the term to do all and sundry pertaining to the said office; he commands all and sundry bailiffs and officials, and all his tenants of the said lordship or any others within the said county, paying anything to the office of chamberlain, to assist, heed and favour William, the prior's receiver, when duly performing his office.
Date: Durham, 6 October 1446
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f.7v   15 November 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the provost of the collegiate church of St Mary of Hemingbrough, for 33s 4d for the term of Martinmas last past, in full payment of a certain yearly pension of 5 marks owed de iure to the prior and the office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid by the rectors of the same church.
Date: Durham, 15 November 1446.
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f.7v   15 November 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to Mr Robert Beaumont, rector of Brantingham, for 66s 8d for the term of Martinmas last past, in full payment of a certain yearly pension of 10 marks owed de iure to the prior and the office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid by the rectors of the same church.
Date: Durham, 15 November 1446.
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f. 7v-8r   15 November 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to William Aukbarowe, rector of the church of Walkington, for 50s for the term of Martinmas last past, in full payment of a certain yearly pension of 100s owed de iure to the prior and office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid of old from the rectors of the same church.
Date: Durham, 15 November 1446.
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f.8r   15 November 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, 20s for the term of Martinmas last past, in full payment of a certain yearly pension of 40s owed de iure to the prior and office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid of old from the rectors of the same church.
Date: Durham, 15 November 1446.
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f.8r   6 October 1446
Licence by William, prior of Durham, to his fellow monks, William Seton' and Richard Shirburn', to hear each other's confessions and those of their fellow monks and other religious dwelling in [Durham] College Oxford, and to absolve them, with the absolving of grave faults reserved to the prior or his special deputy.
Date: Durham, 6 October 1446.
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f.8r-v   8 October 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, for £9 3s 4d, by the hand of a monk of Farne Island, for the term of Michaelmas last past, in full payment of a certain yearly pension granted to the prior and monastery of Durham by the progenitors of the king from their alms from the fee-farm of the said town by the hand of the men thereof.
Date: Durham, 8 October 1446.
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f.8v   9 October [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Henry Mone, vicar of St Helen in York), reporting that he is pleased for the parson of [Kirby] Sigston to resign his benefice to Henry, as Henry wrote in his letter, lately delivered to the prior. Henry says that he has been told that the prior should make a promise to Sir James Strangwasch for a priest of his called May, but he never made an approach to the prior, nor the prior a promise to him or anyone else, except Henry alone. He should not trouble himself but remember what the prior said to him when they last spoke about this matter, and be governed accordingly.
Date: Durham, 9 October.
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f.8v-9r   20 October 1446
Letters testimonial by William, prior of Durham, for Thomas Ayer', that, in the presence of the prior and his fellow monks below, John Wessyngton', his predecessor, said that he never knew his fellow monk Thomas Ayer to be under or bound by any yoke of servile subjection, and had never heard anything asserted by any man which could redound to the injury of his good name or the free status of the said Thomas, and, having made this declaration, John Wessyngton' asked the prior to grant letters concerning the above; acceding to this request, the prior granted letters testimonial in witness of the aforementioned.
Witnesses: Henry Helay, Thomas Nessbitt, Richard Kellowe, John Gatesheved', Thomas Warde, Th[omas] Forde, William Dalton', John Birtley, Robert Emylton', John Warner' Th[omas] Lewyn', Th[omas] Hexham and Richard Blackburn', monks of Durham.
Date: Durham, 20 October 1446.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.155-156.
Also DCD Reg.IV, f.33v.
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f.9r   6 October 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to James Strangwasse, knight, by the hand of William Eden', the prior's bursar, £6 for the half of the corn tithe from Brompton for 1445.
Date: Durham, 6 October 1446.
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f.9r-v   3 November [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the countess of Westmorland), whereas, in her recent letter she desired the next vacancy of a church in the prior's patronage for one of her chaplains, he cannot fulfil her wish in the manner she desires without great offence to the spiritual law. He may not depart from the promises previously made by the last prior and his fellow monks to notable and great [persons of] estate for certain of their clerks, so that he may not grant her the next vacancy. When it pleases her to name a suitable person of good behaviour, he shall do so when he may, so that when a benefice in his patronage falls vacant for him she shall be pleased.
Date: Durham, 3 November.
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f.9v-10r   18 November [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Alexander Home, knight), thanking him for his kindness and steadfastness towards him and his fellow monk, John Oll', prior of Coldingham, and for his efforts concerning their rights, at great personal peril. Whereas Alexander is aware that John Oll' is resolved, for certain causes moving him and the prior, to leave the priory of Coldingham, he and his fellow monks beseech him to support Thomas Nessbitt, monk [of Durham], whom they intend to place at Coldingham, with his advice and help, as he has done for the said John Oll', as John has reported to the prior and chapter. He should send the prior his advice how the said Thomas should be governed concerning his admission by the king and the bishop of St Andrews. He beseeches him furthermore to support John Pencher', monk [of Durham], in the matters he is performing in Scotland for the said John Oll.
Date: Durham, 18 November.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.157-158.
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f.10r-v   10 November [?1446]
Letter (margin: by John Oll', prior of Coldingham), (margin: to the bishop of St Andrews), since throughout Britain there is talk [of it], both among magnates and the people, and public preaching, the bishop is not unaware of the abominable wickedness perpetrated by Patrick Hepburn', son and heir of the lord of Hailes, and his accomplices, against the prior, his fellow monks, their household and servants, when riding from the town of Edinburgh towards Coldingham on the business of the church and priory. The same Patrick, through his accomplices (of whom he is the leader) who were lying in ambush, committed a grave insult to the prior and his [companions] on the highway, and, drawing and brandishing their swords, threatened and menaced them, violently laid hands on them and plundered their goods, and brought them to the castle of Dunbar, where Patrick holds sway as a violent intruder, imprisoned [John Oll'] there in strict confinement for a fortnight, and finally compelled him, a faithful vassal of the king of Scotland, not daring to resist them for fear of a greater punishment (even death), to raise a heavy, and to him insupportable, ransom. He requests him to issue a sentence of greater excommunication against Patrick and all his accomplices, and to hold them implicated by this sentence until they do penance and make satisfaction to the prior for the grave injuries committed against him and his [companions].
Under his seal.
Date: Coldingham, 10 November.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.156-157.
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f.10v-11r   6 December [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the lord of Clifforde), as for the matter of the vicar of Giggleswick, for whom he has lately sent letters to the prior by the said vicar, he is to understand that the prior's predecessor and the chapter, at the request of Thomas Percy, knight, promised that they would hold the lord's chaplain, Richard Falthorpp', as recommended to the vicarage of Giggleswick at such time as the incumbent vicar resigns or leaves the said vicarage. The present prior and his fellow monks must in honesty keep this promise. Whereas the lord wishes the vicar to have the aforesaid church bound, under the common seal of the prior and chapter, [to pay] him an annual pension for his lifetime, they have no authority under the common law to bind the church to any such pension. As patrons of the church, however, they will out of regard for his lordship consent under their common seal to the cardinal [archbishop] of York assigning by his ordinary authority an adequate portion annually from the fruits and revenues of the church, and to bind the church and the vicars thereof to pay the said pension in full, for as long as the said vicar is alive. If the prior and his fellow monks could do anything more in this matter by the common law, they would gladly fulfil his wish.
Date: Durham, 6 December.
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.73.
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f.11r   1 December 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the abbot and convent of Newminster near Morpeth, for 13s 4d, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Stannington and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1446.
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f.11r-v   1 December 1446
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to Henry Hanslapp', prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, for 13s 4d for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham from the prebendary of the said prebend and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1446.
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f.11v   1 February 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the executors of the will of Thomas Birdale, lately rector of the church of [Kirby] Sigston, for one yearly pension of £6 13s 4d for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, owed yearly to the prior and the communar of Durham from the rectors of the said church and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 February 1446/7.
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f.11v   10 February 1447
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Finchale), stating that he is sending his fellow monk, Henry Helay, to walk about, whom he wishes to stay there for four weeks from his arrival. He asks him to show signs of brotherhood and kindness to him and bestow his favour on him.
Date: Durham, 10 February 1446/7.
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.33-34.
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f.11v-12r   14 February [?1447]
Language:  English, with one phrase in Latin
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Freston'), informing him that he and his fellow monks received on 14 February letters from the king and queen especially written for his promotion. He is to understand that for the trust they have in him, and for their {own} ease in discharging his pension, which he would receive from them until he was promoted to a benefice, and for his advancement, they are fully disposed to promote him, even more so at the request of the king and queen. If this pleases him, it will not be necessary to make further approach to the king and queen in this matter. When they promote him to a benefice, it is not their intention to discharge him entirely of his fee but to give him such a pension as he and they can agree upon, as they have previously done for many worthy {men}. He sends a proxy under their common seal to arrange a loan to the sum of £20 in the Roman curia.
Date: Durham, 14 February.
For the proxy, dated 14 February 1446/7, see DCD Reg. IV, f.43r-v.
Digitised version

f.12r   1 March [?1447]
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Stamford), stating that, since the prior wishes on this occasion all priors and external administrators who are subject to him to be present in person at the next annual chapter, to be held at Durham in the chapter house, for reforming the state of the monastery and expounding other difficult and pressing business, he commands him, having put aside all administration and excuses, to come personally to the next annual chapter, to treat with the prior and his fellow monks about the aforementioned state and business and to offer his advice and assistance.
Date: Durham, 1 March.
Digitised version

f.12r-v   3 February [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Blith', his attorney in the king's exchequer), informing him that there was a [trial at] nisi prius at Hemingbrough to inquire into the goods of one Felton', who was outlawed and a fugitive for slaying a man in Hemingbrough. Certain issues and amercements in the exchequer have fallen (“run”) on his predecessor, the last prior, and diverse gentlemen of that country, because they did not appear to pronounce (“pass”) on the said nisi prius. Despite the fact they appeared at last and pronounced, issues and estreats (green wax) fall on them this day in the exchequer to their great injury. This past year he paid 16s to the sheriff of Yorkshire for estreats which then fell on him and he cannot understand why. He asks him to make a search in the exchequer why such issues fall on him and the aforesaid gentlemen, and speedily send him word, along with his advice. By his servant, the prior sends to Thomas's place a tally for £64, delivered to {the prior by} the [bishop] of Carlisle. The prior paid him £63 18s 5d, since the half tenth, aside from [the bishop] of Durham's portion, comes to no more than this because of certain exceptions. He sends his fee with the bearer of this letter, 6s 8d for Martinmas [14]45 and 13s 4d for Whitsun and Martinmas [14]46. (Blank space follows where 2½ lines have been erased.)
Date: Durham, 3 February.
Digitised version

f.12v-13r   13 November [?1446]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Heron', esquire), whereas certain of the prior's cattle were driven into Redesdale, where John has governance and keeping, and were redeemed [?: “borrowed again”] by certain friends of the prior without John's knowledge, against the freedom and franchise of his keeping, he prays him not to be displeased about anything done up until such time as they speak together. At that time, if any offence has been done to him, the prior will amend it. He further asks him to proclaim that no man within his governance and keeping may take or drive any cattle of the prior or his fellow monks, or of their tenants, upon pain of law, to be executed against them without grace when some offence is found therein.
Date: Durham, 13 November.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccix-cccx; J. Raine, The History and Antiquities of North Durham (1852), p.iv.
Digitised version

f.13r   6 March [?1447]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Ogle, knight). thanking him for his help and support shown to the prior when he was staying with him in the north country, recalling to him how his fellow monk, the bursar, showed certain evidence to him at Norham of a parcel of land, lying between Norham and Shoresworth, called Whiterig, given to St Cuthbert and his ministers by Hugh, bishop of Durham [see 4.1.Pont.5]. The freeholders of Norham against right have deprived the prior of this, to his injury and the great nuisance of the tenants at Shoresworth. He beseeches him to order this matter to the best of his abililty so that he may have his right again and the tenants occupy the said parcel, since, as his evidence shows, he and no other has a right thereto. He beseeches him when he comes to the country to visit St Cuthbert that they may discuss this and other matters.
Date: Durham, 6 March.
A nearly identical letter on f.1v-2r.
Translated in: M. Heale, Monasticism in Late Medieval England, c.1300-1535, (Manchester 2009), p.174-5.
Digitised version

f.13r-v   8 March [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Hevyke), informing him that the steward to the prior's master Nevyll' for his lordship of Cottingham would compel the prior's tenants of Hunsley to appear at the court at Cottingham and cause a distraint to be made at Hunsley and drive [the moveables distrained] to York, to the tenants' great nuisance and loss and to the prior's prejudice, against right and his evidence, of which in part he encloses a copy. He asks him to inform Nevyll's counsel of his evidence and how neither the prior nor his tenants ought to appear at the said court; with his good advice may they not be disturbed further in that regard. He should inform the prior in writing how he has acted in this matter.
Date: Durham, 8 March.
Digitised version

f.13v   14 March [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Sadilere), asking him to make ready all the money owing from the last year (“of this tyme twelmonth”) for the tithes of the church of [North]Allerton, within six days following the date of this letter, and deliver it without further delay to the prior's servant, Thomas Barnard', courier of his exchequer, for he will be with him at [North]Allerton on the said sixth day or soon thereafter. He asks him to levy and raise the money owing for the tithes of this year last past before 1 May next. He further asks and charges him not to deliver any part of the said money owing for the year last past to any man, without a special charge from the prior. He is to place full confidence in this matter to the prior's fellow monk, John Gatesheved', bearer of this letter.
Date: Durham, 14 March.
Digitised version

f.13v-14r   31 March 1447
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Kellowe [monk of Durham]), stating that, since he resolved to send him from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale, he commands him to direct his steps and remain there. He is to show the presents to the prior of the cell so that he admits him benevolently.
Date: Durham, 31 March 1447.
Digitised version

f.14r   6 March [?1447]
Memorandum that the prior sent a letter to John Barlay, [monk of Durham and] prior of Lytham, by Nicholas, John's servant, to be present in person at the next annual chapter to be held at Durham, according to the tenor of the letter to the prior of St Leonard's Stamford recorded on the second folio preceding [f.12r].
Date: Durham, 6 March.
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f.14r   1 March 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the prior of Brinkburn, for 3s 4d for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and chapter of Durham for the church of [Long] Horsley and customarily paid of old to the sacrist of Durham.
Date: Durham, 1 March 1446/7.
Digitised version

f.14r   30 April 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the keeper of the college of Staindrop, 20s for the term of Easter last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and chapter of Durham from the church of Staindrop for the indemnity thereof and customarily paid of old to the office of sacrist of Durham.
Date: Durham, 30 April 1447.
Digitised version

f.14r-v   17 April [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Wetwang), whereas John Thornton', lately vicar of [North]Allerton, has died and another, at the presentation of the prior and chapter, is incumbent in the vicarage; and there is a dispute between him and the executors of John Thornton, who have agreed to meet at the eve of St Mark next [24 April] at North[Allerton] to come to an agreement on all matters; and they wish to have present at that time a man learned in the law to inform them what is right, he asks him to arrange to be at [North]Allerton on the aforesaid day for various considerations which his fellow monk, John Gatesheved', will declare to him there on the same day. The aforesaid parties will reward him for his labour, as they have promised the prior. When he has finished, John Gatesheved [monk of Durham] will ride with him to the synod at York.
Date: Durham, 17 April.
For the presentation, dated 28 March 1447, of John Levesham to the vicarage of Northallerton, see DCD Reg. IV, f.44r.
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f.14v   18 April 1447
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Dale, the prior's servant (“domesticus”), with the will and consent of his fellow monks, of one corrody or place for life in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene next to the hospital of Kepier, lately vacant by the death of Emma, widow of William Palfrayman, formerly sister in the same hospital. with special licence to remain outside the hopital in some respectable life for as long as he lives, provided that he keeps the statutes [etc.] of the hospital, with the exception of residence within.
Date: Durham, 18 April 1447.
Digitised version

f.15r   22 April [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ? *], informing him that John Midilton' and the prior and his fellow monks are finished (“ar throgh”) in all matters concerning Healay, as sure as the law can make them. Since the prior knows that various of their neighbours near them will be greatly displeased when they prior start working the mine of Healay (as is agreed between them), because the neighbours have no interest therein, the prior and his fellow monks request him, in order to excuse them, to procure letters from the king, the lords of Suffolk [and] Northumberland and the bishop of Durham, to be sent to them [urging] the letting of the said mine to him before anyone else, as he and they have agreed. When the letters have been obtained, he asks him with all speed to come to the country with workmen to work the said mine, for all the conditions that are granted to him and written in a note between him and them, of which he has a part, will be duly fulfilled without delay on his arrival.
Date: Durham, 22 April.
* Possibly Thomas Billingham, see f.27v below.
For proceedings over Healey see DCD Reg. IV f.79r-80r.
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f.15r-16r   12 April 1447
Certification by William, prior of Durham, to John, abbot of Selby, deputed visitor of the monasteries and other houses of religious of the Benedictine order in York province by authority of the provincial chapter of the order last held at Northampton, or to his commissaries, having received on 5 April last past the following citation.
He has obeyed this mandate, caused all his fellow monks, customarily present at a visitation, to be cited, whose names are attached to the presents, and done all and sundry pertaining to his office, and thus executed his mandate.
Date: the monastery of Durham, 12 April 1447.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.54r-v.
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f.16r-v   28 May 1447
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to Ralph Bruke and his wife, Denise, with the consent of his fellow monks, of one place or corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, lately held by Emma Palfrayman', with special licence to stay outside the infirmary until one of them dies, when the survivor will then enter the infirmary and thenceforward remain there.
Date: Durham, 28 May 1447.
Digitised version

f.16v-17v   1 June [?1447]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Gray, the king's proctor in the Roman curia), informing him that, although he and his fellow monks had it in mind to appoint him their proctor in the Roman curia in place of Mr Andrew Holes, nevertheless with the rumour flying about that he had set out on a journey to his native region, they were compelled by necessity to appoint Mr William Freston', LL.Lic., travelling to the curia, as their proctor, to carry out certain matters there, whose speedier expediting they have in mind for various considerations and reasons. They are of the heartfelt opinion that he should be entreated to intervene favourably, effectually and helpfully [on behalf of] the person of the said William and the rights and liberties of the church of Durham, and of its dependent cells and priories, in the case when some person, secular or regular, should attempt something against them (in so far as his other responsibilities permit) and to lend a favourable hearing to William and to hold him favourably recommended by the prior's special request. In addition to [making him] real recompense, the prior and his fellow monks will be his perpetual orators for this.
He should be aware that for two hundred years and more the prior and chapter of Durham have had a certain priory in the county of Lancashire in York diocese, commonly called Lytham, from the gift of a certain Richard son of Roger, knight, whose disposal at all times belonged to the prior and chapter, such that they, according to their own judgement, freely and peaceably appoint all and sundry priors of Lytham, according to the tenor of its foundation, and remove and discharge the same from its rule. Lest the liberty of such disposal be taken away from the prior and chapter by any fraud or artifice, the foresight of the priory's founder provides that all and sundry possessions, spiritual and temporal, from whose income and profits the prior and his fellow monks of Lytham obtain necessities and sustain the charges incumbent on the priory, were not to be given to them or the priory but to the prior and chapter of Durham, as the charters of this gift makes plain; successive priors of Lytham, according to the statutes and ordinances of Pope Benedict XII, and from right and ancient custom of the church of Durham, barring any legitimate impediment, in person or by proctors were present and assembled in the annual or general chapters, held once every year in the church or monastery of Durham, along with the other priors and administrators subject to the prior, and rendered an account of the administration of the said priory to the auditors and diffinitors deputed by the prior and chapter, and contributed to the subventions and collections imposed by the prior in the annual chapter for the common expenses touching the principal monastery.
Notwithstanding the aforementioned, a certain William Partrike, one of the fellow monks of the chapter, appointed in the time of the prior's predecessor as prior of Lytham, having passed over in silence the aforementioned, not long ago obtained from the apostolic see letters of perpetuity as prior, and because by doing so he committed an offence against the Statute of Provisors, obtained letters of pardon from the king for contravening the said statute.
William Patrike has lately been induced at considerable expense to renounce freely and absolutely this apostolic indult and all other ensuing privileges and immunities contained therein, and to leave the priory and return to the cloister, where he remains still, another having been substituted in his place in the priory.
The prior now writes the aforementioned in fuller detail for his information, in the event that William Partrike again or the present prior of Lytham or any other should in a similar case endeavour, against the prior [and chapter ?] of Durham and the foundation of the said priory, to hold the priory at their pleasure. Lest this happen, he should see fit, with his friends in the curia, to fight for and defend the house of God in this regard.
Date: Durham, 1 June.
Digitised version

f.17v-18r   6 June [?1447]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Th[omas] Ayer', [monk of Durham and] prior of Holy Island), informing him that for certain causes which, he believes, are not unknown to Thomas, he has discharged his fellow monk, John Harom', from the rule and governance of the cell of Farne Island, commanding him to deliver a faithful status and clear inventory of all the goods of the said cell to Thomas. He therefore requires him, for the good state of the cell and the respectability of the order, to receive a full status of the said cell at his discretion, by the indentures made between the prior and John, and to take care to keep any goods of the cell with him at Holy Island or in another secure place in the town of Bamburgh, the same to be delivered in the event to John's successor, who is to remain with Thomas for the time being, as discussed between them in their last conversation. The same John says that he has made preparation and arranged for good materials for the repair of buildings in the said cell, namely, tiles, boards and nails in large quantities, but the prior doubts whether this is true. He should therefore make genuine inquiry into this and certify the prior as to what he found.
Written in haste at Durham, 6 June.
Digitised version

f.18r   15 June 1447
Memorandum that a letter was issued to John Harom', [monk of Durham and] lately master of the cell of Farne Island, to remove him from the same cell to the priory of Finchale.
Date: Durham, 15 June 1447.
Digitised version

f.18r-v   1 June 1447
Proxy by William, prior of Durham, appointing his fellow monk, Mr John Burnby, S.T.P., as his proctor and excusator to attend the coming provincial chapter of abbots, priors and other prelates of the black monks of England, to be held by apostolic authority on (blank) July next at Northampton, with authority to swear to the truth of his excuses, to treat with those present, to agree to everything which is determined in the chapter by the president or presidents, and to do all else which is necessary or appropriate to his office, as the prior is prevented from appearing personally for certain legitimate reasons, namely, he does not dare desert his monastery due to war and the incursion of the Scots, the enemies of the inhabitants of England, proposing to lay waste the region and to reduce it to ashes, and because it will be fitting for him to have discussions in person for the acquisition, preservation and recovery of the rights and possessions of his monastery, long withheld by the magnates of the region.
Date: Durham, 1 June 1447.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.57v.
Digitised version

f.18v-19v   1 July [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Nessbitt', [monk of Durham and] prior of Coldingham), supposing that he is aware of the expenses and efforts made in the court of Rome by his fellow monk, John Oll', subprior, lately prior of Coldingham, for the restoration of the patronage of the prior's churches within the diocese of St Andrews, which have long been out of their possession for various reasons, to the likely great hurt of the priory. Notwithstanding his great efforts and expenses and their telling evidence, as the composition made between the bishop of St Andrews' predecessors and themselves shows, John Oll' could not obtain his good lordship and favour for this before he paid him £150 Scots, which he borrowed from George of Fullay, merchant, dwelling in Edinburgh, and committed himself and his successors in a bond to pay to the said George at John the Baptist last past. For this payment he left at Coldingham, besides the property ( stuffe) of the said place, to pay the sum three hundred and four score [pres. 440] ewes and 12 cows, with the offal and all profits from the ewes and cows to the present. Thomas has taken these goods at this time, as is said. Considering the notable reasons why the money was borrowed and how it was spent for the everlasting well-being of Coldingham, it seems reasonable to the prior that the said place bear this charge since it derives the benefit from it. He requests him to arrange with all haste to pay the said George, as reason demands that John Oll's promise be kept and no trouble should befall Coldingham for its non-payment. To supplement the said sum, it is the prior and John Oll's will that Thomas take the ? hevedez or henedez of the arrears of Richard Wrake, monk, from John's time [as prior], which arrears Thomas has stopped, as is said, against right. John has shown him a bill of notable costs, charge and expenses made by him in his time as prior, which is no ? feende thyng as he refers him to his fellow monks who were with him and have knowledge of this, as he will prove at the required time and place. As for the lease made to the abbot of Melrose of certain tithes, the prior wills the lease be kept, as the writing plainly shows. He is to certify the prior in writing as to what he intends to do in this matter.
Date: Durham, 1 July.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.161-162.
Digitised version

f.19v   6 August [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Bere of Berwick), whereas he desires in his letter, recently delivered to the prior, to have an extension to Our Lady Day Nativity next [8 September] for the payment of certain moneys which he owes for the tithes of Charlton and the half [of] Lowick, and also to be farmer of the said tithes of Charlton for this year; the prior agrees to this, provided that he keeps his payment date and seals an obligation, which the bearer of this letter will show to him, just as other men in his country do for tithes which they have at farm from the prior. Although John thinks it strange that the half tithe of Lowick is let from him to other men, the prior was informed by the officer, his fellow monk [? John Pencher, proctor of Norham], at that time that John was not disposed to occupy it any longer or put it in farm (sett); because the prior did not wish to be deprived of a farmer, he leased it to another man, trusting that neither John nor anyone else {would} be displeased with this.
Date: Durham, 6 August.
Digitised version

f.20r-v   2 August 1447
Letters testimonial by William, prior of Durham, to all and sundry whom the presents reach, and chiefly to Henry Inglouse and Thomas Tudename, knights, and John Hopton', esquire and warden of the city of Norwich, that although Austin (margin: Sayman), monger, bearer of the presents, originating, as he asserts, in the county of Norfolk, had, as a liege of the king of England, in easement of the entire region (patria), freely come with his merchandise to northern parts of England and to the monastery of Durham and other neighbouring religious places almost every year for twenty years and more; nevertheless, on 29 July or thereabouts near the city of Durham the same Austin and his servant, John Dovfe, were seized as Scots, as originating in the kingdom of Scotland, by certain persons from the region and county of Durham, and their goods seized and placed in strict custody until the same Austin and John provided four persons acting as surety (plegios), bound by a certain obligation of £20, that they would show to their captors sufficient proof, in writing and under authentic seals, before Michaelmas next that they were of English stock and had been born in England. The prior therefore requires and exhorts everyone having knowledge of the origin of Austin and John, if they are lieges of the said king, originating, as they assert, in England, to declare and attest this by their letters patent.
Date: Durham, 2 August 1447.
Margin: Letters testimonial concerning the arrest of Austin Sayman and his servant.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccx-cccxi.
Digitised version

f.20v-21r   17 August [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Birton' of [North]Allerton), stating that the side ( party) of Henry Mone, parson of [Kirby] Sigston, has recently complained to the prior that as he was instituted and inducted in the parsonage thereof on 24 November last past, the wheat which he found sown and growing on the glebe of the church should belong to him by custom and common law; notwithstanding this, the executors of William Birdall', late parson there, are hindering and troubling Henry against right and law in harvesting and obtaining the wheat. The prior asks him, for the ease of all sides, to endeavour to bring about an agreement between the parson and the executors so that the parson may have and enjoy his wheat. Otherwise the prior, at the request of the parson and as ordinary and patron there, must introduce a sequestration and commit the management and harvesting to some good man in the area, until it is determined by law whether the parson has the right to it. If the executors disobey, the prior must of necessity do what the laws will in that regard, which he would be loth to do, for their master's sake especially and for theirs.
Date: Durham, 17 August.
Digitised version

f.21r-v   17 August [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Portyngton, justice), informing him that, since he spoke with him, the cardinal [archbishop] of York has written to the prior especially for a prebend in Hemingbrough, presently vacant by the death of Robert Pacoke, for a clerk of his called Randalfe Bird. Notwithstanding this, and the approaches made to him and his fellow monks by notable persons for the same prebend, for their mutual affection and the kindness shown him he sends to him by his fellow monk, Thomas Holme, bearer of this letter, a presentation to the prebend for John's son. He asks him to excuse him to the cardinal, so that he is not unfriendly to him because he has not attained his wish at this time.
Date: Durham, 17 August.
Printed in: Thomas Burton, The history and antiquities of the parish of Hemingbrough in the county of York, ed. J. Raine (York 1888) p.382-383.
For a presentation, dated 17 August 1447, of (blank) Portyngton' to a prebend in Hemingbrough, see DCD Reg. IV, f.58v.
Digitised version

f.21v   31 August 1447
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of John Bradebery [monk of Durham], as keeper of the cell of Farne Island, committing the care and administration thereof in both spiritualities and temporalities, until he has another mandate from the prior; and commanding all concerned to obey him as keeper in all and sundry pertaining to them.
Date: Durham, 31 August 1447.
Digitised version

f.21v-22r   29 August [?1447]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the abbot of Whitby), relating that his letters, delivered by the bearer of the presents to the prior and read by him, deeply wounded him, further than could be believed, with a sting of dreadful sorrow, since ungrateful sons, throwing off the yoke of discipline, have caused injury and sorrow to the abbot. Over these he will find him prepared to provide support with all his might, insofar as his other responsibilities (which press on him even more than usual at present) to recover the rights and possessions of the monastery of Durham permit. As for the prior carrying out a visitation of the abbey to reform excesses of this sort, he does not see what result his coming there would achieve, especially since the [archbishop] of York, as he understands from the gist of the abbot's letter, inhibited the latter from interfering in any way in such controversies and suits, and proceeding against the offenders; rather he is to treat them benevolently until he has arranged for inquiry to be made into the aforementioned, either by himself or his commissaries. Nevertheless the prior's advice is first for him, having taken the prior of his house with him in place of his chaplain, along with seven horses (or thereabouts), to go in person, as secretly as possible, to the earl of Northumberland, explaining to him the entire matter on his behalf, retaining his favour by any means, and afterwards to take himself without delay to the archbishop, declaring the aforementioned to him, similarly obtaining his good-will [and] beseeching him for a commission for the abbot of St Mary, York, or the abbot of Selby, along with their commissaries, to inquire into the aforementioned in his monastery, and to proceed against offenders and to correct and reform anything they find there in need of correction. The prior would wish to follow the abovementioned manner of proceeding if the aforesaid touched him as it does the abbot.
Date: Durham, 29 August.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxi-cccxii.
Digitised version

f.22r-v   8 October 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, for £9 3s 4d, received on the date of the presents, by the hand of {his} monk of Farne Island, for the term of Michaelmas last past, in full payment of a certain yearly pension granted to the prior and monastery of Durham by the progenitors of the king from their alms, from the fee-farm thereof, by the hand of the men thereof.
Date: Durham, 8 October 1447.
Digitised version

f.22v   31 December 1447
Memorandum that a quittance was issued to the master of Balliol Hall, (margin: Oxford) for the pension of the church of Longbenton, under the prior's long seal, according to the form previously written here on the seventeenth folio [preceding, f.6r-v].
Date: Durham, 31 December 1447.
Digitised version

f. 22v-23v   31 August 1447
Language:   English
Lease by indenture by William, prior of Durham, to John Bron' of Tudhoe, Bertram Gaythird', Alex[ander] Belfelde, William Lethom', Raulin (Rallyn') Dronsmyth of [Bishop] Middleham and William Bron' of Durham, butcher, of a waste toft and twenty-eight acres of land, with its appurtenances, in Tursdale, and with a coalpit in the same land, to work and extract coal every workable (overable) day with three picks, each pick extracting sixty coal-scoops every workable day, to be held from St Cuthbert [4 September] next for the term of the year following, giving 24s to the prior for the said toft and land, and 10 marks for the said coalpit at the Invention of the Cross [3 May] and at John the Baptist [24 June] next, in equal portions. The said John, Bertram [etc.] shall work the mine in a workmanlike fashion to keep the field undamaged (standing) on the the inspection of certain viewers assigned by the prior to search the same mine in that year. He also granted to them a coalpit in the north side of Spennymoor, to work and extract coal with three picks every workable day, each pick extracting every workable day sixty coal-scoops, to be held from St Cuthbert next until the end of the year following, paying £20 to the said prior at the Invention of the Cross and John the Baptist above, in equal portions; the said John, Bertram [etc.] shall work the mine in a workmanlike fashion to keep the field standing. At their own expense they will work on and make a watergate for extracting coal in the same coalpit of Spennymoor. At the end of the year they will leave the same watergate as they made it, on the inspection of the said viewers.
Date: Durham, 31 August 1447.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxii-cccxiii.
Digitised version

f.23v   4 October [?1447]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Oll', [monk of Durham and] prior of Coldingham), stating that, after John Oll' last left the area, William Eden, lately bursar [of Durham], delivered to the prior of Durham his accounts for the time he occupied the office of bursar, by which he found (which he relates with sorrow) that in addition to its former debt the same office is burdened by debt, to [the amount of] £323, to be paid shortly to various creditors. The prior's exchequer is insufficient to pay these debts, considering the weighty necessary charges daily incumbent on it, without a subsidy from elsewhere. In the last annual chapter, he therefore imposed a collection, to be raised in varying portions from his priories, administrations and offices, both within and without the monastery, of which sum the portion imposed on his priory is £10. And since he has learned by lengthy experience that, of his fellow monks, Oll especially desires the advancement of the monastery, he therefore requests him to send without delay this portion with John Pencher', his fellow monk, bearer of the presents. He will in future be all the more thankful to him for his promptness in this regard.
Date: Durham, 4 October.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.154-155.
Digitised version

f.24r   14 October [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Blithe, his attorney in the king's exchequer), informing him that Sir John Whelpdale, attorney to the [bishop] of Carlisle's treasurer, delivered to him a tally of the first quarter of the second half [of the] tenth, for £32. The prior delivered the aforesaid sum to him before Midsummer last past, with the exception of 10d, because the said tally is in excess of the first quarter by that amount. He would have sent him the said tally long ago, but could not find a reliable man to carry it. He sends it to him now by his trustworthy friend, Robert Rodes. He asks him to labour that the prior and his fellow monks suffer no loss or incur any fines [?: ne ryne in noon ysshuez] in the exchequer because the said tally had not been delivered into the exchequer at the term set in the king's writ; Sir John Whelpdale, to whom he delivered the said quarter [of the] tenth, promised him that the tally would be allowed in the exchequer until such time as the prior could send it to Thomas by a reliable man, so that the prior should not suffer a loss in any way. He places his trust in him to see for this and all other matters concerning the prior and his fellow monks in the king's exchequer, so that he does not incur any fines there.
Date: Durham, 14 October.
Digitised version

f.24r-v   1 November [?1447]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Goldesburgh', receiver of Hemingbrough), inasmuch as certain money is owing on his accounts to the prior's fellow monks, Richard Blakburne and John Midilham, former chamberlains, as they have informed the prior, asking him to grant them licence to sue him because they have contacted him at various times and have had no remedy; however, out of affection and the report of William's good conduct, he would not grant them a licence before he knew how William would be governed in that regard. He requests him, to avoid any ill-feeling, to arrange to pay them their money without delay; otherwise, if they make a further approach to the prior, he must grant them licence, which he would be loth to do.
Date: Durham, 1 November.
Digitised version

f.24v
(Inner margin, inserted between documents:)
“Sequence of the holy gospel according to Matthew” [no more]
Digitised version

f.24v   2 November 1447
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of Robert Emylton' [monk of Durham], as subprior of the cell of Finchale, granting him special authority to hear the confessions of his fellow monks, dwelling at Finchale, and of those sent there to walk about, and to absolve them, with the exception of those cases whose absolution is specially reserved to the prior.
Date: Durham, 2 November 1447.
Margin: the appointment of Robert Emylton' as subprior of Finchale; according to this form George Sither' [monk of Durham] was appointed as subprior there 4 August [14]51.
Digitised version

f.24v   1 November 1447
Memorandum that two letters were issued to send John Dorwarde and William Byrden' [monks of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Coldingham.
Date: Durham, 1 November 1447.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.161.
Digitised version

f.25r   4 November [?1447]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that he is sending his fellow monks, John Dowarde and William Byrden' [monks of Durham], to stay with him at the cell of Coldingham. He is to show signs of brotherhood and affection to them, willingly and obediently departing from their native soil to a distant region, and to bestow his favours on them and the other fellow monks staying with him. The said John Dorwarde, since he returned home from the Roman curia, has lived among his fellow monks in a devout and praiseworthy manner, in so far as the prior of Durham is aware. He should take care to treat and favour him as deserving, according to his degree and age, forgiving any offence so far with a pure conscience.
Date: Durham, 4 November.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.161-162.
Digitised version

f.25r   30 November 1447
Memorandum that a letter was issued to bring Robert Emylton' [monk of Durham] back from the cell of Finchale to the monastery of Durham, in the common form.
Date: Durham, 30 November 1447.
Digitised version

f.25r   2 December 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to John Bere of Dunstanburgh, gentleman, for £7 16s 8d, namely, 63s 4d for the half tithe of Lowick for 1446 and £4 13s 4d for the entire corn tithe of North Charlton for 1446.
Date: Durham, 2 December 1447.
Digitised version

f.25r-v   5 December 1447
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Marchall', with the will and consent of his fellow monks, of one corrody or place for life in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, lately vacant by the death of John Holme, with special licence to remain outside the hospital in some respectable place until his present wife dies, provided that he keeps the statutes [etc.] of the hospital, with the exception of residence within.
Date: Durham, 5 December 1447.
Digitised version

f.25v   1 December 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the abbot and convent of Newminster near Morpeth, for 20s, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of [Kirk] Whelpington and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1447.
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f.25v-26r   1 December 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the prior of Hexham, for 10s by the hand of the master of Ovingham, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Ovingham and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1447
Digitised version

f.26r   1 December 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the prior of Tynemouth, for 6s 8d, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Haltwhistle and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1447.
Digitised version

f.26r   4 December 1447
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the abbot and convent of Newminster near Morpeth, for 13s 4d, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Stannington and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 4 December 1447.
Digitised version

f.26r-v   10 December 1447
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to William Smyth', with the consent of his chapter, of the office and keeping of the prior's park of Muggleswick, for his lifetime, provided that he conducts himself praiseworthily in the said office; and, for his service in faithfully performing the said office, by himself or his deputy {or deputies}, of clothing, food and drink (specified), 4½d for soulsilver and 5s for his stipend by the hand of the bursar of Durham or the stock-keeper. He will also have herbage for six cows, six calves, one horse and one mare with her foal in open park, provided that none of the animals enters the enclosures or other special pastures reserved for the prior's cattle {and use}. He will have the herbage of one meadow called Forestermedowe and all bark and branches of trees given to outsiders, and the branches of all trees, downed by wind or age, in which timber cannot be found, provided the trees do not fall down through a general tempest, with the bark and branches of all trees, taken up for the use of the prior or his tenants, reserved to him.
Date: Durham, 10 December 1447.
Digitised version

f.26v   26 December 1447
Memorandum that one place or corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, lately held by Joan Preston, was granted for life to Richard Heworth and Isabel, his wife, by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the grant to Ralph Bruke and Denise, his wife, previously written in this register on the eleventh folio [preceding, f.16r-v].
Date: Durham, 26 December 1447.
Digitised version

f.26v   1 December 1447
Memorandum that a quittance was issued for the pension of 13s 4d owed yearly from the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden and assigned to the prior of Durham's chancellor, according to the form of the quittance of the same pension, previously written on the sixteenth folio preceding [f.11r-v].
Date: Durham, 1 December 1447
Digitised version

f.27r   7 January [?1448]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), informing him that he has received his letter, lately sent to him, from which it is evident that he has sought his advice in three matters; first, as to the pension imposed on him by the king; second, concerning a sum of money owed to George de Fallow; third, concerning the pension of the church of Old Cambus. As for the first, since he was not endowed with greater liberty than his predecessors, it is fitting for him to submit to royal impositions just as they did. As for the second, he cannot give more beneficial advice for now than for him to come to an agreement as advantageously as possible with the said George for the terms or days for paying the debt to him. As for the third, he advises him neither with regard to the bishop of St Andrews to compensate for the trouble with the yearly pension nor to let to him the unsupported possession of the church of Old Cambus, but rather, if he has not found a better means of reaching an agreement by which his rights and liberties may be kept undiminished, to resort to an appeal, by which, as the prior understands it, all will redound to him with very little expense.
Date: Durham, 7 January.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.162.
Digitised version

f.27r-v   7 January 1448
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Barbore, of one place or corrody for life in le Meason de dieu, lately held by Joan Preston', receiving what any brother or sister staying therein receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that he observes the obligations of the place. If he fails to observe the statutes and customs, or commits adultery or fornication or marries again, he will be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 7 January 1447/8.
Digitised version

f.27v   15 November 1447
Memorandum that four quittances were issued, discharging the provost of Hemingbrough, the rectors of the churches of Brantingham and Walkington and the vicar of Welton for the half of the pensions of the same churches, owed yearly to the monastery of Durham from the same churches and assigned to the office of chamberlain thereof, as for the term of Martinmas 1447, under the prior's long seal, according to the form previously written in this register on the twentieth folio preceding [f.8r and also f.7v].
Date: Durham, 15 November 1447.
Digitised version

f.27v   21 January [?1448]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Wheltden'), asking him to send, by the bearer of this letter, the note to be had in the matter concerning the prior and Thomas Billyngham, esquire, so that, as discussed between the prior, Robert Danby, Robert Rodes, himself and others of the prior's counsel when Richard was last at Durham, the prior might show it to the said Robert Danby and Robert Rodes. He further asks him to send with the bearer the award between the prior and John of Middleton concerning the manor of Healay.
Date: Durham, 21 January.
For proceedings over Healey see DCD Reg. IV f.79r-80r.
Digitised version

f. 27v-28r   6 February [?1448]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr William Gray, [papal] prothonotary and proctor of the king of England in the Roman curia), having made known to him that he has appointed, as he recently wrote to him, a certain Mr William Freston', LL.Lic., travelling to the curia (as he asserted), as his proctor, to carry out certain business there and to repel any injuries which might happen; according to the information which the prior then had, he reckoned that William Gray had wished to travel to his native region. Since the prior was entirely unaware whether the abovesaid William, his proctor, was still on his way to the curia or had diverted elsewhere, and since, as he was recently informed, a certain priest by the name of Thomas Harpar', who was doing his best to subvert the foundation and order of the cell of Lytham and to perpetuate the right and title there of William Patrike, monk of Durham, who formerly was straying from the statutes and constitutions of his order, has arranged to travel to the Roman curia, to do God knows what; knowing his subtle adversity and adverse subtlety, and fearing lest he devise or attempt something against the liberties and rights of the monastery, the prior entreats him as a true inhabitant of the said liberty, should he hear anything which would seem likely to subvert or in any way molest the rights or liberties, foundation or order of the said monastery, or of a priory, cell or any member dependent on it, to oppose this, as far as his duties permit.
Date: Durham, 6 February.
Digitised version

f.28v   February [?1448]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Ogle, knight), informing him that he has received his letter and will comply with his wish in receiving that child into his almshouse ( almose) and school, for which he has written. He asks him to support and defend the prior's proctor in the church of Norham in raising the profits which duly and rightly belong thereto, so that he is not troubled against right and law. He is to bear in mind to support his right in that parcel of land called Whiterig', lying between Shoresworth and Norham.
Date: Durham, (blank) February.
Printed in: M. Heale, Monasticism in Late Medieval England, c.1300-1535, (Manchester 2009), p.175.
Digitised version

f.28v-29r   11 February 1448
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Schortt, with the will and consent of his fellow monks, of one corrody or place for life in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, lately vacant by the death of John Dale. He is to have what any brother or sister, staying outside the hospital, receives. The prior grants him special licence to stay outside the hospital in some respectable place for as long as his present wife is alive; after her death he will enter the said hospital there or will stay in the infirmary near the abbey gate Durham, receiving what any brother or sister, staying in the hospital, receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that he keeps the statutes [etc.] of the hospital. If he should commit adultery or fornication or marries again, or does not carry out the statutes [etc.] of the hospital, with the exception of the said residence, he will be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 11 February 1447/8.
Digitised version

f.29r   1 February 1448
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Schortt, with the will and consent of his fellow monks, of two corrodies, one in the infirmary and the other in Le meason de dieu, to be held from the prior and his successors for John's lifetime, receiving what any brother or sister of the said places who is staying outside them receives. The prior grants him special licence to stay outside the infirmary in some respectable place while his present wife is alive; after her death he will enter the infirmary or stay in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene, receiving what any brother or sister staying therein receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that he keeps the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary and le Meason de dieu. If he commits adultery or fornication or marries again, or does not carry out the statutes [etc.] of the hospital, with the exception of the said residence, he will be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 1 February 1447/8.
Digitised version

f.29r-v   29 March [?1448]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Barton, [monk of Durham and] prior of Stamford), intending to preserve intact the rights and liberties of the church of Durham, as he is bound, he now writes to him, exhorting him to make inquiry whether the church of Kirkby on Bain [Lincs.], belonging to the prior's patronage and collation, is vacant or not in law or in fact; if vacant, he is to certify the prior immediately, lest through the passage of time it perhaps devolves to the ordinary's collation, whereby a dispute or disturbance would probably arise in the future, which he intends to avoid as far as possible.
Date: Durham, 29 March.
Digitised version

f.29v   3 May 1448
Memorandum that a letter was issued to appoint Henry Helay [monk of Durham] as subprior of the cell of Finchale, according to the form, previously written in this register on the fifth folio preceding [f.24r, which is actually the sixth folio if counting inclusively], of the letter to Robert Emylton', last subprior there.
Date: Durham, 3 May 1448.
Digitised version

f.29v   7 May 1448
Commission by William, prior of Durham, to his fellow monk, Mr Richard Barton', prior of the priory or cell of St Leonard's Stamford, to absolve Richard Salmon', burgess, of Nottingham and all his progenitors for any wrong or offence committed or caused by reason of the unjust withdrawal or withholding of a certain yearly rent of 4s for a certain tenement in the town of Nottingham, owed and customarily paid to the prior of Stamford in past years from time out of mind, on the condition that the said Richard Salmon' makes satisfaction to the aforesaid Mr Richard for [the goods] detained.
Date: Durham, 7 May 1448.
Digitised version

f.29v-30r   May 1448
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of Thomas Warde [monk of Durham], as prior of the cell of Holy Island committing to him its care and administration in both temporalities and spiritualities, until he has another mandate from the prior; commanding all and sundry concerned to be answerable to him and obey him as prior in all pertaining to them, as was the custom with the other priors of the cell. He is to render annually a faithful account to the prior for all receipts and expenses of the cell.
Date: Durham, (blank) May 1448
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f.30r   11 May [?1448]
Letter by William, prior of Durham, (margin: to Mr Richard Wetwange), reckoning that he is not unaware that the vicar general of John, cardinal priest of S Balbina, archbishop of York [etc.], refused to accept the prior's presentation to the prebend of Howden in the church of Howden (which was written in the form known to Richard and employed from of old), because the term ‘Obedience’ had not been included, although the prior does not know what is motivating him. He entreats him, since the prior seeks nothing except what is just and has hitherto been observed, to induce the said vicar general as best he can to accept and admit his presentation as before, since this does not introduce any innovation. If he cannot be persuaded to do this, or perhaps has received a command to act in this way, since the prior would do nothing which would reasonably give offence, he entreats Richard to give him sound and prudent advice in this regard, and also that, saving the period of the vacancy of the said prebend, in so far as he is able, the liberties and rights of the church be preserved.
Date: Durham, 11 May.
Digitised version

f.30r-v   11 May [?1448]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Sendale), informing him that Mr Robert Dobbys, vicar general of John, cardinal priest of S Balbina, archbishop of York [etc.], refused to admit Mr John Lounde to the prebend of Howden in the church of Howden on the prior's presentation, (which was written in the form used from of old) because the term ‘Obedience’ was not included, although the prior does not know what is motivating him. He therefore requests him, having previously had communication about this with Mr John Marshale, to work at finding a means by which the presentation may be peaceably and quietly accepted. If his desired end cannot be achieved, he should not delay telling the prior.
Date: Durham, 11 May.
Digitised version

f.30v   29 May [?1448]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the archbishop of York), trusting that his requests will not fall on deaf ears or be rejected, he most humbly entreats him, out of his devotion to the monastery, both now and in the past, to show himself favourable in future to defending and preserving the liberties granted to it. He entreats him to place confidence in his fellow monk, the bearer of the presents, who will report the undoubted truth to him in these matters close to the prior's heart.
Date: Durham, 29 May.
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f.30v-31r   22 June [?1448]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to Robert Dobbes, vicar general of the archbishop of York), having received a certain schedule, from the gist of which the prior understands that John, cardinal priest of St Balbina, archbishop of York [etc.] wishes them to protest that, by the omission of the term, ‘Obedience’, in the presentations made to him, they did not intend any new right to accrue to the prior or church of Durham, or to engender any prejudice to the archbishop or his church of York; they therefore protested, according to the form contained in the schedule sent to them, and resolved to send their protestation safely to him, which they intend to observe [and] which has been confirmed by the common seal of the chapter and kept along with the said schedule in a pyx. He entreats him to show his friendship, favour and protection, now and in future, to the prior and to his church of Durham in guarding its liberties.
Date: Durham, 22 June.
For the protestation, dated 22 June 1448, see DCD Reg. IV, f.64r.
Digitised version

f.31r   22 June [?1448]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (superscription: to Mr John Marshall', residentiary of the church of York), conveying his heartfelt thanks for his constant faithfulness towards him and his keeping of his church, especially at present, and in giving his sound advice, and in the prudent supervision, direction and keeping of the income and profits of the prebend [? of Howden in the church of Howden *] now vacant; noting that so far the prior has not remitted anything from the income of the profits of the vacant prebend, nor does he propose to do so, lest the rights of the church of Durham suffer an injury or calumny in some way; and entreating him to see fit to continue in future the cordial affection which he bears to the prior and liberties of his church.
Date: Durham, 22 June.
* See f.30r-v above.
Digitised version

f.31v   23 June 1448
Quittance by William, prior of Durham,, to Henry Hanslapp', prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, for 6s 8d for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of a certain yearly pension of 13s 4d, owed and customarily paid to the prior and monastery of Durham from the prebendary of the said prebend.
Date: Durham, 23 June 1448.
Digitised version

f.31v-32r   24 July [?1448]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to John, cardinal priest of S Balbina, archbishop of York [etc.]), stating that the prior was so overcome by joy that he could not be silent, both because [the archbishop] has so graciously received his uncultivated letters and achieved the desired result, and because he saw fit to send such comforting letters to the prior. The prior had understood from this that the archbishop was so devoted to protecting his rights and liberties that he would not allow them to be subverted, but on the contrary would oppose those acting maliciously. The prior beseeches him to consider that Henry [Beaufort], onetime cardinal of S Eusebius, bishop of Winchester, often visited the monastery in his lifetime, one time in particular {at great} expense, for with threatening words he had caused necessities to be provided for many years from the goods of the monastery to a certain gentleman, by the name of Henry Goddarte, with his servant. Since the disposition of his goods is committed to the archbishop, he asks him to make some recompense to the monastery.
Date: Durham, 24 July.
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f.32r   24 July [?1448]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to John Gisseburne, the cardinal's chaplain), conveying his heartfelt thanks for the special affection he bears him and his monastery (as he shows by his actions), as the prior recently learned from their mutual discussion and personal conversation, and from his fellow monk, John Gateshevede. He sends him a letter, entreating him to present it to [the cardinal] when it seems to him appropriate, along with a certain schedule concerning the distribution of the goods of the late cardinal, drawn up by John Gisseburne, according to the tenor of the conversation between him and John Gateshevede.
Date: Durham, 24 July.
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f.32v   16 September [?1449]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr J[ohn] Marshall'), requesting him, in whom he has singular confidence, to proceed to visit the prior's churches in Howden and Howdenshire and to hold a synod, as the prior's privileges allow (volunt) and he has hitherto done, and to perform everything else pertaining to the prior's jurisdiction. He sends a special commission [cf. next entry] to him with the bearer of the presents so that there is a more favourable outcome to this.
Date: Durham, 16 September.
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f.32v   16 September 1449
Memorandum that a certain commission was issued to Mr John Marshall' to visit the churches in Howdenshire, according to the form of the similar commission to the same Mr John, previously written in this register on the twenty-eighth folio [preceding, f.5-rv].
Date: Durham, 16 September 1449.
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f.32v   8 October 1449
Memorandum that a quittance for £9 3s 4d, owed to the master of Farne Island by the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was issued according to the form previously written in this register on the eleventh folio [preceding, f.22r-v].
Date: Durham, 8 October 1449.
Digitised version

f.32v   5 October 1449
Memorandum that two letters, by virtue of which Richard Shirburne and Thomas Cale [monks of Durham] were appointed bursars and confessors of Durham College Oxford, were issued according to the form, written in this register on the sixth and eighth folios (counting from the beginning of this book) [f.6v and 8r], for the appointment of William Seton' and Thomas Cale as bursars [and] William Seton' and Richard Shirburne as confessors {there}.
Date: Durham, 5 October 1449.
Digitised version

f.32v   16 November 1448 & 31 December 1449
Memorandum that quittances {for the pension} of the vicar of [North]Allerton {for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas}, dated Durham, 16 November 1448, and of the master and scholars of Balliol Hall Oxford, assigned to the warden of Durham College [Oxford], dated Durham, 31 December [14]49, were issued, according to the form on the sixth folio from the beginning of this book [f.6r-v].
Digitised version

f.32v   17 & 22 October 1449
Memorandum that two letters were issued, one for sending Thomas Hexham [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of St Leonard's Stamford, dated Durham, 17 October, and the other for removing John Hoton' [monk of Durham] from the said cell to the cell of Finchale, dated 22 October 1449.
Digitised version

f.33r-v   18 October 1449
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe in the Roman curia), stating that he rejoices in his promotion and praiseworthy works, especially because he finds him such a prompt and diligent supporter of the prior and his monastery, as he grasps from the contents of his letter which he wished for his sake only to send to the prior; and informing him him that on 30 January 1447/8 he appointed as his proctor Mr William Freston', wishing to travel to the Roman curia, as he asserted and promised the prior, to carry out faithfully certain business. Failing to match words with deeds, William did not keep his promise and the prior was deceived and frustrated in his desire. He therefore asked John, acceding to the will of the prior and his fellow monks, to take on the office of proctor in the curia. He is to receive the usual fee, namely 40s a year, which the prior was accustomed to give to his other proctors there. He will receive 20s in advance from this sum, along with the proxy which the prior is sending him at present. He entreats him, in the event that he sees anything attempted by any person to the prejudice of the prior, his monastery or any members thereof of his college in Oxford or any of its dependent cells, particularly the cell of Lytham (which he especially fears and is trying to avoid), especially if by William Partrike, monk of Durham, or any of his accomplices, from which trouble or harm could come to the rights and liberties of his church or the cell of Lytham, to take effective steps to frustrate it utterly, and to bring to a speedier conclusion all other matters and incumbent burdens; the prior will take care to provide money, when necessary, for expenses. Moreover, if in the coming jubilee year any of his fellow monks visit the Roman curia, he is to make careful inquiry and examine whether he obtained special licence to do so, and especially if N., monk of Durham, came to him, to examine his licence most carefully and compel him to exhibit it. If a certain Robert Erghowe, onetime monk of Durham, but afterwards professed in the order of friars preachers, should happen to attempt anything against the church or any of its members, John Laxe should deign to provide a sound and appropriate remedy [for this].
Date: Durham, 18 October 1449.
Digitised version

f. 33v-34r   18 October 1449
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Gray in the Roman curia), stating that, since the prior is informed daily from the reports of many persons that he is arranging to hasten to England, the prior and his fellow monks, confident in his prudence and discretion and relying on William's gracious support, recently appointed John Laxe as proctor in the Roman curia to expedite more speedily the matters, close to the prior's heart, which touch the privileges of his church. The prior entreats him to give every assistance, as before, whenever he is a resident [of the curia ], to expediting the business of the monastery and especially in these matters which in the event were to be explained to him by John Laxe on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 18 October 1449.
Digitised version

f.34r-v   18 October [?1449]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Blithe, attorney in the king's exchequer), whereas he is informed that a tenth has been granted to the king in Canterbury province, he asks him, in the event that the said tenth is certified in the exchequer, to make arrangements for the prior to have writs upon his patent granted by the king. He sends to him with the bearer [of this letter] a copy of the patent in order to be discharged of all such tenths to the collectors in Lincoln diocese, in whatever places he has churches belonging to him or temporalities annexed to the spirituality, also, concerning the prior's pension of 40s of the church of Kirkby on Bain [Lincs.], for which he has before been charged 4s, charging the said collectors not to raise or take the said tenths of his churches or his temporalities or the said 4s in any way. In the event the said tenth is not yet certified, then he is to work with the bearer, in whom he should place full confidence, to further the prior's desire in that regard. He is to send word as to what day the said tenth is payable. The prior will reimburse him for expenses.
Date: Durham, 18 October.
Digitised version

f.34v   5 January 1450
Memorandum that a letter was issued to send William Eden' [monk of Durham] to the cell of Coldingham from the monastery of Durham, in the common form.
Date: Durham, 5 January 1449/50.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.163.
Digitised version

f.34v-35r   20 January [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe in the Roman curia), whereas he is informed that certain persons are endeavouring to act against the prior and his monastery in the Roman curia, he entreats him, in whom he and his company (cetus) [of monks] have special confidence, to counteract anything which might in future be attempted to their harm or prejudice, trouble or distress, by any monk of their monastery, or [his] solicitor, proctor or supporter, or, if any such suit is brought against them there, to prevent it having any effect; he should not permit any proceeding to be initiated or any prerogative to be pursued or then obtained by any of his fellow monks or any other person in any way which might result in his injury, unless in such [matters] the prior first makes known to him what he desires him to do. He is to to certify the prior as soon as possible by messenger if his proxy arrives, with his letter and money, which he caused and ordered to be directed to him.
Date: Durham, 20 January.
Digitised version

f.35r   [?1450]
Memorandum that a quittance was issued to Mr William le Scrop', as for the half of the pension of Skipwith assigned to the chancellor of Durham, namely, for the term of Martinmas 1448, according to the form of the quittance to Henry Hanslape' for the half of the said pension for the term of Pentecost 1448, previously written in this register on the fifth folio preceding [f.31v].
Digitised version

f.35r   1 December 1449
Memorandum that a quittance was issued to Mr William le Scrop' for the yearly pension of 13s 4d for the prebend of Skipwith, assigned to the chancellor of Durham, according to the form {of the quittance} of the same pension to Henry Hanslap', previously written in this register on the twenty-fourth folio preceding [f.11rv].
Date: Durham, 1 December 1449.
Digitised version

f.35r   1 March 1450
Memorandum that a corrody, lately belonging to William Archere and Iseult, his wife, in le Maison de dieu, was granted for life to John Donalde alias Colyar, by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the similar corrody to John Barbour, previously written in this register on the ninth folio preceding [f.27r-v].
Date: Durham, 1 March 1449/50.
Digitised version

f.35r-v   9 March [?1450]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to John, cardinal priest of S Balbina, archbishop of York [etc.]), stating that the archbishop's abundant kindness, the diligence of his past efforts and his excellent advice about not licensing his fellow monks in roaming around the world to go to the Roman curia, make them his bedesmen and bound by affection to him. Although regretfully he did not have at hand what to some extent could gladden the archbishop, he believes a more favourable outcome has happened, namely, he resolved that the first prebend in the church of Hemingbrough, which is now vacant, should be disposed of at the archbishop's pleasure; the prior sends the presentation for this, to be offered to the archbishop, with the bearer of the presents, in whom he should see fit to place confidence in explaining matters in the prior's place.
Date: Durham, 9 March.
Digitised version

f.35v-36r   9 March [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe, resident in the Roman curia), stating that he certified him a little while ago, as he recalls, by his letters that certain sons of iniquity were endeavouring to expend much effort against his liberties in his cell of Lytham, to the very grave prejudice of his monastery. He recently learned that his enemies, who are reckoned not to spare any expense or efforts, are diligently working against him in the Roman curia. He therefore requests John, in the place of the prior and his fellow monks, to make provision and take precautions lest any person, religious or secular, on behalf of William Partrike or anyone else, whether absent from or occupying the said cell, procures in future any grant from the apostolic see, to the injury of the prior, or to obstruct any such grant, if perhaps obtained before now; as the prior has confidence in him, whom he believes will be vigilant in these and other matters touching the prior and his church, so the prior will be in John's affairs.
Date: Durham, 9 March.
Digitised version

f.36r   13 April [?1450]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Danby, serjeant-at-law), concerning the king's letters patent, pardoning him from paying the tenths to him, he asks him, that if he can know for certain that the prior may benefit in that he may not be lawfully compelled to pay the tenths and subsidies of bishops, then he should exert himself to have it granted, even if it costs 40 marks or £40 or more. If he perceives that it may not fortify the prior against [paying] the tenths and subsidies of bishops, he does not think it wise to risk such a great sum of money, without evidence of the result.
Date: Durham, 13 April.
Digitised version

f.36r   13 April [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marshall'), informing him that he was recently told that a certain man from the prior's jurisdiction of Howdenshire, from the parish of Brantingham, had been summoned before a judge in the court of the same spirituality, concerning the tithe of fish. Afterwards, as the prior understands, he was cited to the court of York at the request of Mr Robert Beaumont [rector of Brantingham], to the evident prejudice of the said liberty. The prior firmly believes this was done without John Marshall's knowledge and against his wish. The prior therefore entreats him to ponder this business and ensure that the aforesaid liberty remains intact and unharmed.
Date: Durham, 13 April.
Digitised version

f.36r   1 April [?1450]
Memorandum that a quittance was issued to the prior of Brinkburn for the church of [Long] Horsley for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas [14]49, according to the form previously written in this register on the (blank) folio preceding.
Date: Durham, 1 April.
Digitised version

f.36v   4 April 1450
Citation by William, prior of Durham, specially deputed by the presidents of the provincial chapter of the Benedictine order last held at Northampton to visit all abbots and priors, monasteries and convents of the order not having their own abbots, in the province of York, in accordance with the form of the general council, to the abbot and convent of the monastery of St Mary, York, stating that, since he intends to visit them in their chapter house on 7 May next, he cites the abbot and all and sundry of his convent to appear in person on the said day and place before him or his commissaries, one or many. He commands the abbot to cite and forewarn, or cause to be cited and forewarned, all and sundry of his fellow monks, who by right or custom were usually present at a visitation, to appear in person with him on the said day and place. By letters patent reciting the contents hereof, he is to certify the prior or his commissaries on the said day and place as to what he has done in the aforementioned, with the names of all those cited.
Date: Durham, 4 April 1450
Memorandum that similar letters in this form were issued to visit the monasteries of Whitby, Selby and Monk Bretton [W. Yorks.] {on this occasion}.
Digitised version

f.36v-37r   1 April 1450
Commission by William, prior of Durham, specially deputed in the provincial chapter of the Benedictine order, last held at Northampton, to visit all and sundry monasteries, abbots, priors and convents of the said order within York province, to his fellow monks, Mr John Burnby, S.T.P., warden of [Durham] College Oxford and William Seton', B.Th., committing to them his authority to visit the monasteries of St Mary York, Selby, Whitby [and] Monk Bretton [W. Yorks.] on the days and places appointed in his letters of citation; to make inquiry in both spiritualities and temporalities into any transgressions, faults and other business of the visitation, and to correct, punish and duly reform them; and to do all and sundry which, by reason of the duty enjoined upon him or by right or custom, should be appropriate or would be possible for the prior to do in this regard, if he were personally present there; as the prior is unable to attend in person because of various, difficult matters of his monastery.
Date: Durham, 1 April 1450
Digitised version

f.37r   1 June 1450
Memorandum that a proxy was issued to Mr John Burnby [monk of Durham], to appear in the general chapter to be held at Northampton on (blank) July next, according to the form of the similar proxy for the same John, previously written in this register on the nineteenth folio [preceding, f.18rv, if not counting inclusively] up to “[as] he is unable to attend personally, namely, on account of old age, bodily infirmity and the speedy and fit execution of various business of the monastery, the prior appoints his fellow monk, Mr John Burnby, S.T.P., warden of Durham College Oxford, as excusator etc.”, [and then] word-for-word to the end [of the proxy].
Date: Durham, 1 June 1450.
Digitised version

f.37r   April [?1450]
Memorandum that a certain letter was issued, in the common form, to return John Eden' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to the monastery of Durham.
Date: Durham, (blank) April “in the abovesaid year”.
Digitised version

f.37v   [?1450]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marshall'), informing him that, concerning the pasture of Hunsley, which they had discussed, it was the prior's will that he should have had it at farm, paying the same as other men would, after the term of the last lease ( takynge) had passed. However, as the prior is informed, Ralph Babthropp', his steward in that area, has let the same pasture for this year without the prior's knowledge or that of his officer, the chamberlain. The prior does not yet know to whom and in what kind he has let it, but the bearer of this letter will make inquiry into the truth of the matter and upon his return to John Marshall make a report to him.
Written at Durham.
Digitised version

f.37v-38v   29 May 1450
Certification by William, prior of Durham, to Richard, prior of Coventry, lawfully deputed in the general chapter of the Benedictine order, last held at Northampton, to visit the monastery of Durham, or to his commissaries, one or many, having received on 9 May the following mandate.
He has obeyed Richard's letter, caused to be cited and forewarned all and sundry of his fellow monks, customarily present, whose names, with a description of their offices, are attached to the presents, and has performed everything else pertaining to his office in this regard, thus executing this mandate.
Date: the monastery of Durham, 29 May 1450.
Digitised version

f.38v   [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the abbot of Abingdon), stating that, since the respected doctor, Mr John Vanne, [monk of Abingdon: “vestrae reverende paternitatis filius”], on the abbot's behalf, diligently pressed for the contributions of the monastery of Durham, which are in arrears, to be levied and paid, he informs the abbot that much money is still owing to the prior and various of his fellow monks, as his fellow monk, Mr John Burnby, will more clearly inform the abbot at the next general chapter to be held at Northampton. He hopes his contributions will be remitted and pardoned, in whole or in large part, in this chapter by the presidents and other fathers, as the other fathers [did] in the same or similar urgent cases, since the goods of his monastery are noticeably diminished and excessive expenses are very often paid out because of the afflictions of the war between the English and Scots, the many disturbances in the borders of both realms, where a great quantity of his possessions and revenues happen to be, and the frequent arrivals of the lords and magnates, ambassadors of the kings of England and Scotland, who are negotiating for peace. The prior believes the abbot's support and assistance will result in a favourable and speedier outcome.
Date: Durham, “on the above day”.
Printed: Documents Illustrating the Activities of the General and Provincial Chapters of the English Black Monks 1215-1540 Vol. III, ed W.A. Pantin (Camden Society, 3rd Series 54, 1937), p.153-154.
Digitised version

f.38v-39v   [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe, the prior's proctor in the Roman curia ), bringing to his notice that a certain Robert Erghowe, onetime monk of the monastery of Durham in the time of the prior's predecessor, had licence to transfer to a stricter religion, namely, to the order of the friars preachers. The enclosed schedule explains the manner of this licence and the circumstances of the matter; he should place confidence in this as the truest account. However, the same Robert, having cast aside the habit of the friars preachers and resumed that of a monk, is not sparing any effort to regain his former place. Since the prior was informed by well-known scholars and legal experts that if any religious, having professed in any regular order, has afterwards sought and obtained a legitimate licence from his superior and entered another stricter religion, he is considered to be professed thereof, since he assumed the habit of the second religion. He therefore entreats him to act carefully on the prior's behalf in this cause in the curia ; if Robert Erghowe or any other should in future apply to the apostolic see to restore him to a monastic order, he should intervene lest anything against the prior or his monastery occurs in the Roman curia which would prejudice his liberty and the monastic order. The prior heard from the report of knowledgeable persons that [the pope] could, from the plenitude of his power, restore him to the monastic order, but, as the prior was given to understand, he cannot send him back to the first place, which he left by licence, if the superior of that place is unwilling. He is to certify the prior as soon as possible in writing that he has received the presents and that the other letters, which he sent to him for the advancement of the monastery, have arrived.
Date: “etc.”
Schedule relating that a certain Robert Erghowe, professed monk of Durham of the Benedictine order, urgently sought licence to enter the order of friars preachers in the town of Bamburgh; when Robert had obtained licence, the prior of Bamburgh, since he did not then have any authority (as he asserted) to admit him into the said religion, presented the same Robert to the prior of the dominican house of Berwick. Robert and the prior of Bamburgh, at Robert's request, asked the prior of Berwick to receive him there into the Dominican habit and order. The prior of Berwick exhorted and counselled him to take further advice about such an action, considering that a possessionary monk is like a lord in respect of mendicant and poor friars preachers. Taking into account his constant perseverance after such exhortations, and after many supplications had first been made on his behalf, he admitted Robert there to the dominican habit and religion. He immediately cast off his monastic habit and in the presence of the priors of Bamburgh and Berwick and many men, noble and common, put on the dominican habit and was thus held and reputed to be a brother of that order; and celebrated masses and other divine offices there to such an extent that he, having taken an oath on the bible and been examined before the bishop of Durham, publicly asserted that he had been under the obedience of the prior of Berwick for fourteen days. However, having cast off his dominican habit, he is now wearing a monastic one and roaming about like a vagabond, seeking to be received and admitted into the monastery of Durham etc.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxxi-cccxxiii.
Digitised version

f.39v   19 June 1450
Memorandum that a corrody, lately belonging to Joan Cuthbertt, was granted for life in le Meason de dieu to Robert Hoton', by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the similar corrody granted to John Barbour, previously written in this register on the thirteenth folio preceding [f.27r-v].
Date: Durham, 19 June 1450.
Digitised version

f.39v   30 June 1450
Memorandum that a certain letter was issued in the common form to send Thomas Lewyn' [monk of Durham] to the cell of Stamford.
Date: 30 June 1450.
Digitised version

f. 39v-40r   [?1450]
Letters testimonial by William, prior of Durham, to all and sundry sons of the mother church, and especially to the vicar of the prebendal church of Howden, stating that the prior has been requested with due instance [to declare] that Robert Cressewell', in the household and service of the bishop of Durham at Howden, was falsely and wickedly defamed, as the prior is informed by sworn testimony, of having impregnated a certain Margaret, natural and legitimate daughter of William Harpurley, citizen of Durham, and contracting marriage with her. Margaret, innocent of this offence, is free and absolved and utterly reputed among their neighbours to be uncorrupted and untainted by a man's touch. The said Robert is also free and entirely innocent of this contract and carnal coupling with the said Margaret or with any other woman, as is brought to the prior's notice.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.40r-41v   15 June 1450
Notarized testimonial by William, prior of Durham, recording that his fellow monk, John Birtley, was accused before several good and grave men of the offence of incontinence (according to the rumour maliciously circulating by his enemies), committed with Joan, wife of John Thorneton', dwelling in Saddlergate in Durham. Accused by the prior in chapter before his fellow monks, John steadily denied this and requested the prior admit him to canonical purgation for this disgrace. The prior so admitted him and proclaimed this should be done with twelve monks sworn as compurgators, assigning the same place and the fifth day following, 15 June, for this. On that day, in the chapter house, in the presence of his fellow monks and a great number of trustworthy men, both ecclesiastics and laity, John appeared with his compurgators from the senior members of the chapter, namely, Roger Langchestr', John Gonnerton', master of the infirmary, William Lyham, William Partrike, Richard Kellowe, communar, John Gatesheved, terrar and steward of the prior's household, Thomas Forde, refectorer, William Dalton', third prior, John Pencher', chamberlain, Thomas Lewyn', Richard Blakeburne, Richard Bell', almoner, and William Seton', chancellor; with no one objecting or gainsaying after the public proclamation inviting them to do so, the prior admitted him to purgation, reciting in English the article [cited in full] that he had incontinently and carnally known Joan, the wife of John Thorneton'. John denied this as before, and swore on the gospels that he had never so known Joan and was not culpable of this charge. The compurgators each then swore on the gospels that they firmly believed that the said John had sworn the truth and all the other twenty-four monks then present did likewise. The prior by decree restored John to innocence and his former good reputation. John then asked for the prior's letters testimonial to be granted and drawn up by public instrument.
Witnesses: Mr John Norton', D.Dec., vicar general of the bishop of Durham, Mr John Lounde, B.Cn. & C.L., chancellor of the bishop of Durham, Mr Wiliam Neuton', B.Cn. & C.L., presiding over the consistory court of Durham, Mr Thomas Bukelay, LL.B., rector of the church of St Nicholas in Durham, Richard Prentys, John Runkehorne, notaries public by apostolic and imperial authority, John Partrike, William Barkedale, Thomas Ryhall', Thomas Todde, Th[omas] Elwike, John Manesforth' and John Lambton', chaplains of Hugh Burnynghill', Robert Forster', William Claxton' and Richard Claxton', gentlemen, John Browne, Robert White, Robert Trotter', William Rakewode, Richard Rycrofte, Th[omas] Marchall', John Jarvaux, Thomas Bernarde, John Overdoo [or Onerdoo] and very many other clergy and laity, of York, Durham and Carlisle dioceses.
Notaries: (with eschatocols) {Mr} John Berehalgh, N. P. by apostolic and imperial authority, and Robert Bartram, clerk of Coventry and Lichfield diocese, N. P. by apostolc and imperial authority.
Date: in the chapter house, Durham, 15 June 1450.
Digitised version

f. 41v   29 June 1450
Collation by William, prior of Durham, to Robert Kepyke, chaplain, of the rectory {or free chapel} of the church of Muggleswick.
Date: Durham, 29 June 1450.
Digitised version

f.41v-42r   26 July [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), informing him that he has received his letter, delivered to him by Robert Scrymerston' [monk of Durham] with a letter of credence. He understood more fully from this that the bishop of St Andrews, as is said, intends unjustly to disturb the cell of Coldingham and to weaken its rights by various measures, to the loss and perpetual alienation of the cell from the prior. Since the prior of Coldingham wished him consulted, the prior of Durham advises and wills him, having put aside all indolence or expense, to obtain learned men and legal experts who are willing to work on behalf of the prior and his affairs and to offer appropriate advice about guarding against future evils more prudently. Lest anything worse should happen through negligence, he wills him to come in person to the monastery as speedily as possible to obtain advice and proofs on the prior's behalf. He is to have confidence in Robert Scrymerston', bearer of the presents, in explaining these and other matters touching the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 26 July.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.166.
Digitised version

f.42r   26 August [?1450]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (margin and superscription: to John Nevile, knight), informing him, in answer to his letter, recently delivered to the prior, where he desires to possess in farm the corn tithes of North Charlton and South Charlton, with others belonging to the prior, and will pay the same money as others under sufficient sureties; that the prior's officer, the bursar, now in Yorkshire, was in that area to let all manner of corn tithes there, and that, as the prior is informed, has let the aforesaid tithes, among others, under obligations. The prior asks him not to be displeased in case the said tithes have been previously let, because if they have not been, it is his will and his fellow monks' that before all other men he is to have them, or any other tithes advantageous (easefull) to him. The prior has so written and sent his servant to Sir John Fournasse, proctor to the said bursar in that regard who, he supposes, has knowledge of all manner of tithes, both let and unlet. The prior and his fellow monks will at all times do what they can at his request.
Date: Durham, 26 August.
Digitised version

f.42v   [?August 1450]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Fenwike, chaplain, proctor of Norham), informing him that Sir John Nevile has lately asked him in writing to possess in farm corn tithes from him this year; whereas the bursar is presently in Yorkshire and the prior does not know what tithes he has let, and trusting that John Fenwike has certain and full knowledge thereof in Northumberland, he asks for Sir John before everyone else to have those tithes, if any, which have not been let, and to pay and make sufficient sureties for the same as other men. John Fenwike is to advise Sir John's servant of the truth of this matter.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.42v   12 August [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Finchale), stating that he is sending to him his fellow monk, Thomas Halghton', to walk about, whom he wishes to remain there until Michaelmas next. He has steadfast confidence in Thomas, as in the prior of Finchale, who is to show kindness to Thomas and bestow his favour on him.
Date: Durham, 12 August.
Digitised version

f.42v   26 August [?1450]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Ogle, knight), whereas he is informed that certain persons of Redesdale under his governance have taken away certain of the prior's cattle from his park of Muggleswick to his great hurt, he asks him to work diligently that the prior may have his cattle again, as Gilbert of Heryngton' will inform him.
Date: Durham, 26 August.
Digitised version

f.43r   16 September 1450
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of John Oll' [monk of Durham] as prior of the cell of Finchale, vacant and dependent on the monastery of Durham, since it is the prior's intention to appoint such persons to the rule of outlying places subject to him as can preserve them from harm; hoping that under his rule the cell will prosper for the better, and commanding all and sundry concerned to obey him as prior in all and sundry pertaining to the cell, as was the custom with other priors of the cell. He is to render yearly to the prior a faithful account of all receipts and expenses.
Date: Durham, 16 September 1450.
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.34.
Digitised version

f.43r-v   16 September [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham] [D], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham) [C], stating that C is not unaware how D learned from his letter about the plan of the bishop of St Andrews, who by a grant of the king of Scots and the apostolic see was intending to alienate forever the cell of Coldingham from his possession and rights, and, not knowing [what to do], he wished D consulted, with a letter of credence to be committed to his fellow monk, Robert Scremerston', and expounded to C in D's behalf; D sent a written answer by Robert that C should personally come to him as quickly as possible to expedite the aforementioned. C has not done so, and D recently understood from his letter that he still does not propose to journey to him, alleging invalid and ineffectual reasons, unless bodily infirmity (which he does not have, as the prior is credibly informed) had prevented him [coming]. Having weighed these irrelevant excuses and the future and imminent loss of the cell, as is aforementioned, caused by his negligence and inactivity, and desiring to have personal conversation with him that he might still apply a better remedy, he commands him by virtue of the obedience [he owes the prior], once he has seen the presents, to come in person to Durham within eight days and to treat with him and his fellow monks about the said matter.
Date: Durham, 16 September.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.166-167.
Digitised version

f.43v-44r   11 September 1450
Language:   English
Letters testimonial by William, prior of Durham, recording that, whereas he has been informed that it is reported before notable men that Robert Byrton' of Northallerton had moved or incited him to sue or trouble Robert Thornton' or the executors of Sir John Thornton', lately vicar of Northallerton, for the corn tithes that were the vicar's at the time of his death or after, the prior certifies by his writing that Robert Birton' never moved or incited him in any manner to ask or claim any tithe of the said corn or of any other corn of the vicar, or to trouble Robert Thorneton' or any of the said executors for any tithe or any of the said corn. He, not knowing Robert Birton', acted of his own accord for the rights of his church upon information given to him. At the special request and desire of Robert Thorneton', the prior afterwards allowed him to have the tithe for a certain sum of money granted by him to pay the prior. At the request of Sir Thomas Nevile, knight, the prior afterwards pardoned and forgave Robert Thornton'.
Date: Durham, 11 September 1450.
Digitised version

f.44r   1 October 1450
Memorandum that a quittance was issued to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne for the pension of £9 3s 4d, granted to the master of Farne Island, according to the form previously written on the thirty-sixth folio [preceding, f.8r-v, not counting inclusively].
Date: Durham, 1 October 1450.
Digitised version

f.44r   1 October [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Warde, [monk of Durham and] prior of Holy Island), informing him that he has often learned from several letters and numerous reports of trustworthy men that a grave danger is threatening the cell of Coldingham through the assiduous and cunning efforts of the bishop of St Andrews. Therefore he had repeatedly, one time by virtue of the obedience [owing to the prior], commanded Thomas Nessbitt, [monk of Durham and] prior of Coldingham, to direct his steps to him so that the prior can more quickly obviate grievous events and misfortunes and better anticipate alien plans. Not giving consideration to these matters, Thomas Nessbytt has delayed obeying the prior's mandate, who is wholly unaware of the reason for his absence. He therefore requests Thomas Warde to go in person as quickly as possible to Coldingham, or wherever Thomas is staying, inquiring how he has been and whether some legitimate impediment had prevented him from appearing before the prior. On the prior's behalf he is to command his fellow monks, then staying with Thomas Nessbitt, to speak the truth about this matter. He entreats him to have the said prior of Coldingham make clear why he refused to obey the mandate and what he will do in that business, which principally concerns his office. If he has decided to come in person, the prior of Durham does not expect a response; however, if he disdains to come, Thomas Warde is to put in writing his intention and response and send it without delay to the prior by a faithful messenger.
Date: Durham, 1 October.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.169-170.
Digitised version

f.44v   4 October [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Castell'), informing him that a noble esquire from the prior's region, commonly called Thomas Lambton', frequently made approaches in person to the prior. Desiring the promotion of his brother (confratris) Mr William Lambton', M.A., a careful and (as the prior heard) prudent man in his affairs, he had made entreaty to the prior that he and his fellow monks should give a certain binding surety under their common seal in a certain cause of obtaining an ecclesiastical benefice for the aforesaid William with his favour. Having considered the difficulty of that request, the prior thought that it could not take effect at present. Among the reasons for this is that because certain special constitutions and ordinances, among other institutes of the church, have been enacted and observed between the bishop of Durham and the monastery, [and] confirmed by apostolic authority, which do not permit the bonds of such a surety to be made for anyone nor is the prior permitted in any way to prejudice or obstruct the constitutions [etc.]. If there was not such a worthy reason why there is a legitimate impediment, he would more willingly do what is desired, even if he was obliged for a thousand marks, [since he is] conscious of the uprightness and known faithfulness of this worthy man among the more and less important inhabitants of his region. He therefore entreats him to hold the prior excused in the aforementioned and grant his favour to what is desired above.
Date: Durham, 4 October.
Digitised version

f.44v-45r   22 September 1450
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham College] Oxford), stating that since, as he understood, John Cuthbertt, lately scholar of [Durham] College Oxford had left there, he wills him when he next comes to Oxford to admit Richard Aslakby, clerk of Durham diocese, who has been examined by the prior and his fellow monks, as scholar of the college. He is to require a bodily oath from him, which the foundation and statutes of the college demand.
Date: Durham, 22 September 1450.
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f.45r-46v   October [?1450]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr John Laxe, LL.D., papal official ( “curtisano”) in the Roman curia), recalling that he had taken care on many past occasions to notify him in writing lest anything harmful, grave or prejudicial against him and his monastery seems to be done or obtained in the Roman curia, in which, as far as he has heard, John did not delay taking diligent and effective action so that the outcome to the matter would be more assured, for which he thanks him.
Among the other affairs of the prior and his church, which John has hitherto readily pursued, the prior commits a difficult and amazing matter to him. The bishop of St Andrews in Scotland has set out for the Roman curia and, as the prior was given to understand from many persons, is intending to obtain from the apostolic see the cell of Coldingham in Scotland, with all its appurtenances, in commendam, or at least to raise it to an episcopal see for his suffragan.
He therefore entreats him, if anything should be attempted against their liberty, to intervene in this respect and in the other matters, which are written below, concerning his rights, possessions and liberties, since a prejudicial and irremediable injury will occur unless he stands in the way of the attempts of wicked persons and the efforts of unjust usurpers in wrongfully promoting these causes. He is to take care to prevent this and to achieve the prior's desire.
The prior hopes that he will be vigilant and apply himself to bringing about the desired outcome to this business and the other troubles which threaten to disturb the prior. An account of these matters follows: as the prior has heard from many persons: the bishop of St Andrews is intending to alienate from him and his monastery the cell of Coldingham, which they have had for three hundred years and more from the primary gift of Edgar, king of Scots, which was confirmed by many of his successors, or to obtain the said cell in commendam or to raise it to an episcopal see for his suffragan.
The prior asks him to act prudently lest any such thing proceed against them in the curia, or, having made diligent inquiry and sparing no expense, to strive to cancel out what the bishop has done if (which the prior especially fears) he obtained the cell in commendam or in any other less than just posssession, whether now or in the future when it falls vacant through the resignation or death of the present prior there. The prior sends certain muniments with the presents, copied and drawn up in instruments, one concerning the gift of the same priory of Coldingham, with its appurtenances, in a true copy of a charter of King Edgar, along with certain clauses extracted from the papal bulls of Pope Eugenius III and Pope Adrian IV, confirming the same gift. He sends another muniment, namely a certain transumpt under the seal of the official of the bishop of Durham and the marks of two notaries, concerning a certain papal bull of Eugenius IV, which begins, “For a perpetual record of the matter”, which especially tell against provision or commendam over the said priory. For the greater security of the said place, the prior wishes the bull to be confirmed by the present [pope]. The prior heard from certain persons that to obtain a copy of the aforesaid bull, with its date known, which is plainly in the transumpt sent to John, the register of supplications and the audienta contradictarum should be searched. The same thing should be done if anything should be attempted or obtained contrary to their bull.
There is another matter: he has one cell within York diocese which pays a pension to him of £20 p.a., namely, the church of Northallerton, which is well enough known to John. The perpetual vicar of this church, John Levesham, set off for the Roman curia and, as the prior supposes, is intending to abolish or remit the pension owed to the prior from of old. The prior does not know for certain what he is about to do since he was not informed when he set out, owing the prior £20 and more for the same pension. He therefore entreats John Laxe to resist him if he presumes to undertake anything against the prior or his church of Northallerton, for the prior has had the said annual pension recovered by many sentences which were decided in the spiritual court and recognised in the temporal court.
As he wrote to him on another occasion: a certain Robert Erghowe, onetime monk of Durham in the time of his predecessor, transferred himself to the order of Friars Preachers. The prior is now sending with the presents an account of this, as he had sent in writing on another occasion, in case the other schedule (incipit given), written in this register on the eighth folio preceding [f.39r-v], had perhaps not reached him. Robert had recently obtained a letter from the bishop of Durham that he could remain under his obedience so that he, who set out for the curia, is not reckoned to have transgressed [his] monastic vows. The prior asks him that, if Robert should obtain anything from the apostolic see, that he might be judged a monk and admitted to a monastic order, which he willingly left, to labour that he should in no way have a faculty to re-enter the monastery of Durham, since it is reported by many that it would not be beneficial to the community, inasmuch as he is a man of damaged reputation and unsound opinion, known for deceit and other scandalous defects ( “incommodis”).
Moreover, the prior was informed that William Partrike [monk of Durham] was working against the cell of Lytham, where at one time he had been prior and administrator, that he might seize the cell from the prior {and} obtain it for his lifetime for his own use. There is on his behalf in the curia a certain chaplain, called Thomas Harper', himself cunning and hostile to the monastery of Durham. The prior therefore asks John Laxe to take care lest he or any other person, regular or secular, or John Byrtley, monk of Durham, who came in person to the curia (as is presumed), should obtain anything, which John Laxe can prevent, to the injury of the prior or prejudice of his liberty or monastic order. The said John Byrtley had one letter, obtained in the curia, that he can visit the papal curia in this jubilee year, having sought but not obtained licence from his superior, by the grant and grace of a certain cardinal, Dominic by name, papal penitentiary. The prior marvels not a little at such graces and grants which provide religious persons with an occasion to wander and licence to roam about. He therefore requests that such letters of licence are not granted to monks of his monastery and its dependent cells, to the grave scandal and contempt of religion and the perverse example of many who are given to inconstancy.
He is to certify as quickly as possible in writing that he has received the presents, and as to the outcome of the other matters, which he sent to him previously for the advancement of the monastery.
Date: Durham, (blank) October.
He asks him, having carried out the aforementioned, to return his muniments and proofs to his bank in London, where he is to receive on the prior's behalf money to be spent for expediting this.
The first part, as marked by pencil in the margins, printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.167-169.
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f.46v   31 October 1450
Memorandum that two letters, for sending William Essby [monk of Durham] to the cell of Farne Island and for removing John Kirke [monk of Durham] from there to Finchale, were issued in the common form.
Date: Durham, 31 October 1450.
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f.46v-47r   [?1450]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Gilbert Kymer, chancellor of the university of Oxford and dean of Salisbury), stating, in elaborate terms, with reference to the ancients and Jerome on ingratitude, that, mindful of the abundant favours and manifold gifts which he saw fit to bestow on him and his fellow monks in Oxford, the prior expresses his thanks to him as best he can and rejoices in his friendship. He entreats him, for the peace and honour of [Durham] College Oxford, to continue his favour and friendship, and especially to support Richard Bell, present warden of the college, with advice and help. He is to ask if there is anything the prior can do which can be to the chancellor's benefit and honour.
Date: “etc.”
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f.47r-48r   [?1451]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Richard Wetwange, advocate of the court of York), seeking his advice about what should lawfully be done concerning a certain case lately arisen, after he has considered the writings below. The case is such: the present pope, Nicholas [V], [granted] a certain bull for monks of the Benedictine order in the jubilee year, dated Rome, at St Peter's, Kal. January [1 January] 1449/50, containing this clause:
Extract from bull of Nicholas V:
Desiring to avoid such dangers and to be mindful of the salvation of the souls of the faithful, [and] disposed to their requests in this regard, [and] from a similar plenititude [of power] restraining the statute of Clement, [his] predecessor, with regard to monks and novices in the aforesaid realm and principality, he wills and orders, by virtue of the obedience [owing him], that every aforesaid monk and novice who has decided to obtain such an indulgence and to come to Rome cannot leave their monasteries unless they had previously sought and obtained the aforesaid licence from their superiors etc.
Afterwards, a certain John Byrtley, monk of Durham, came to the prior and showed him a certain licence, as follows, obtained under the wax seal of a certain cardinal, the pope's penitentiary, which made no particular mention of the pope's previous bull, and which was dated later, as is evident to anyone looking at it.
Once these have been seen and pondered, Richard is asked what should be done in this case. The prior expects his advice by the next messenger sent to him.
Date: “etc.”
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f.48r   19 March 1452
Memorandum that three letters were issued in the common form, the first for sending and removing John Rose [monk of Durham] from the monastery [of Durham] to Holy Island, the second for William Byrden' [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Jarrow, and the third for John Bothe' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Jarrow to Lytham.
Date: 19 March 1451/2.
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f.48r-v   5 May [?1451]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe, the prior's proctor in the Roman curia ), thanking him for the efforts he has expended, and especially for the apostolic grant for his monastic order about a full remission in the jubilee year. The prior firmly believes that, through John's work, an indulgence would have been granted for him and his fellow monks, even if it had not been obtained in general. Either because its usefulness had been disregarded or through the sheer inactivity of those who had been entrusted to appoint suitable confessors, only thirty three days of the jubilee year remain for them to fulfil the observances and conditions of the grant. Because of the shortness of time, many of his fellow monks in remote cells cannot partake of this indulgence, which they sorrowfully endure as a grave injury. Nonetheless, fifty two monks undertook this holy work and took care to fulfil it according to the tenor of the apostolic mandate, paying twenty six marks in accordance with the requirements of the letters. He therefore entreats him to compose a letter of thanks, explaining all of the above, and offer it to the pope on their behalf. If the pope ever is displeased with them because of the evil information of any enemies, when the truth is known, he will put that aside and so be favourably disposed, on John's intervention, to agree to their petitions for the eating of meat in Septuagesima and on Christmas Eve, when it should fall on a Sunday, as John had been informed on another occasion. Concerning the matter touching the cell of Coldingham, for which the prior had previously written to him at greater length by messenger, he wishes to be certified what had been pursued or attempted in that regard, so that he knows more clearly what he might hope for.
Date: Durham, 5 May.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.171-172.
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f.48v-49r   4 May [?1451]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Laxe, chaplain, staying in London), whereas the prior has previously written {to} his cousin, Mr John Laxe, his proctor in the curia for the cell of Coldingham, in which matter the prior had no certain knowledge what efforts are being made against him, he asks him to write to the said John to certify the prior in writing how the matter is being pursued in the curia. The prior will meanwhile provide for the necessary expenses to further this matter.
Date: 4 May.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.170-171.
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f.49r   [?1451]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Ralph Babthrop', esquire), stating that he prays him, in such matters as his fellow monk, John Pencher', will declare to him, to place full confidence on the prior's behalf and show his goodwill and patronage therein, and to speak with and charge William Goldesburgh' the prior's bailiff there, to raise and levy all the money hitherto owing and due to the monastery and the chamberlain's office.
Date: “etc.”

f.49r   1 July 1451
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, for sending William Fyge [monk of Durham] to the cell of Finchale and for removing William Kellow [monk of Durham] hence to the monastery [of Durham].
Date: Durham, 1 July 1451.
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f.49r-v   5 May [?1451]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that the prior of Coldingham is well aware that he publicly promised before the prior of Durham and many of his fellow monks to make provision for and pay any necessary expenses in defence of the cell of Coldingham, whose rule he has undertaken, so that the numerous endeavours of wicked persons do not lead to any injury to them both. The prior was recently informed that he requires considerable money to defend the aforesaid matter in the Roman curia. He therefore requests and advises the prior of Coldingham to arrange for 100s at least to be delivered to John Gatesheved' or William Seton' [monks of Durham] before Ascension, knowing that his money will either be spent in pursuing this business or returned to him. He is to pay his yearly pensions without further delay before the term mentioned, as his predecessors customarily did, in order to bear the charges, both usual and those newly arising, more easily, since without such a subsidy the prior would be unable to further the common good of the monastery. The prior of the cell of St Leonard's Stamford set out certain reasonable causes why he cannot at present pay a pension of £6 to the monastery of Crowland, unless fuller provison was otherwise made. In considering that such a pension should be paid because of the church of Edrom, whose income and emoluments belong only to his priory [of Coldingham], the prior thinks the prior of Coldingham should take on and pay the burden of the pension, as customarily done in past times. He is to write to the prior before the above term as to what he has decided to do concerning this and all the aforementioned.
Date: 5 May.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.172-173.
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f.49v   [?1451]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the abbot of St Mary's York), expressing his thanks for the innumerable favours and affection he bestows on the prior's fellow monks when they often come to him. When Roger, monk of Bury, with a view to obtaining a papal indulgence in the jubilee year past for the prior and his fellow monks, came in person to this area, it was agreed between him and the prior that the money, which was to be raised from his fellow monks who had been unable to be ready for his awaited [arrival] at Durham because of the distance, would be sent with their names to the abbot; Roger wished the money to be paid to the prior by the monks of Tynemouth to be handled in a similar fashion. The prior therefore sends with the bearer of the presents 13s 4d for two of his fellow monks and 33s 4d for five monks of Tynemouth, along with their names in a certain schedule enclosed herein, to be delivered to the abbot. The prior entreats him to promote the present business so that it is favourably and speedily concluded, and that that [money] is dispatched more securely to where Roger and the abbot judged [it] should be brought.
Date: “etc.”
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f.50r   [?1451]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Bell, [monk of Durham and] warden [of Durham College] Oxford), stating that, as the prior was recently informed, the lord of Plumtree is endeavouring to remove from the church of Ruddington [Notts.] a certain parcel of cultivated land situated near it, [which is] the glebe or part of the glebe of the said church. The prior therefore advises him to go in person at a suitable time to the lord and to explain how what has been attempted injures the prior, obtaining, if possible, his favour in keeping with the circumstances of his predecessors. If he cannot, he is to say to him prudently that the king of England, the true patron of the church, gave it to the prior with all its appurtenances, as is evident by his charter, a copy of which the prior sends to him. The earls of Salisbury and Westmorland, as the heirs of John de Nevill', onetime lord of Raby, are bound by their two written obligations (a copy of which is sent with the presents) to preserve in perpetuity the prior's right and title in the said church against any person. Richard Bell will receive (which is especially relevant to conclude this matter) a copy of a certain licence by William Fitzwilliam concerning the appropriation of the church, from whom, as is believed, the present lord of Plumtree is descended. The bearer of the presents will relate other matters to him for a favourable outcome to this matter.
Date: “etc.”
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f.50r-v   [?1451]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe, the prior's proctor in the Roman curia ), stating that it cannot be unknown that the prior had repeatedly sent letters and various muniments to him which more fully set out matters touching the prior and his cells; he knew that through John's intervention there had been the desired progress in all these, as far as he had heard so far, and a favourable outcome in some. On 1 July the prior received his letters, with a copy of the bull obtained for the cell of Coldingham, which deservedly comforted him. Since, as the prior understood from his letters, he has paid out a considerable amount of his own money to obtain the bull and expedite the prior's affairs, therefore, for the final delivery of the bull from the hands of the Lombards, he has hastily made provision for the necessary expenses which remain to be paid, which he now sends with immense thanks for his efforts. He entreats him, if anything should be attempted against him or his [monastery] in the Roman curia on any pretext or by any person, to endeavour to frustrate and delay it according to his promise, which the prior has gladly accepted. The prior asks him not to omit the matter of [eating meat in *] Septuagesima and Christmas Eve, when it should fall on a Sunday, which the prior had specially mentioned in his last letter; he would welcome it if he perceived that an indulgence would be granted him.
Date: “etc.”
* See the last letter, f.48r-v above.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.173-174.
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f.50v   1 February 1452
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to Helen Stele, widow of John Stele, and John Stele, cantor, their son with the will and consent of his fellow monks, of one corrody or place in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, lately vacant by the death of Uthred Barley, formerly brother there, for the term of their lives and the longer lived of them. They are to have what any brother or sister, staying outside the hospital, receives. The prior grants them special licence to stay outside the hospital in some respectable place while the said John Stele is alive; after his death Helen, if still alive, will enter the said hospital receiving what any brother or sister staying in the hospital receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that Helen and John keep the statutes [etc.] of the hospital. If they do not carry out the statutes [etc.] of the hospital, with the exception of the said residence, or commit adultery or fornication or marry again, they will be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 1 February 1451/2.
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f.51r   19 February 1452
Memorandum that one corrody in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene, lately belonging to John Bynchestre, chaplain, was granted to John Barker', by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the similar corrody granted to John Dale and previously written in this register on the fourteenth folio preceding [in fact f.14v].
Date: Durham, 19 February 1451/2.
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f.51r   21 February 1452
Collation by William, prior of Durham, to John Hagerston', chaplain, of the chantry of St Helen, over the abbey gate of Durham, presently vacant, along with the chapels of SS Bartholomew and Leonard, near Durham.
Date: Durham, 21 February 1451/2.
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f.51r   2 April 1452
Memorandum that a certain appointment of John Bradebery' [monk of Durham] as master or keeper of the cell of Jarrow was issued, according to the form of the similar appointment of Mr John Mody, lately master there, which was previously written in this register on f.2[r].
Date: 2 April 1452.
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f.51r   2 May 1452
Memorandum that the appointment of William Hesilden' [monk of Durham] as master or keeper of the cell of Farne Island was issued, according to the form of the appointment of John Bradebery, last master there, which was previously written in the present register on the thirtieth folio preceding [f.21v, not counting inclusively].
Date: Durham, 2 May 1452.
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f.51v   13 May [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Barlay, prior of Lytham), informing him that the prior believes his presence will be opportune at the next annual chapter, to be held in the chapter house, for the state of the monastery to be more readily reformed and other difficult and pressing matters to be expounded at greater length, especially the grave and unusual matter of his complaint, a faithful account ( “fidem et credenciam”) of which he only sent to the prior verbally by the bearer of the presents. The prior therefore requests him to come in person to the next chapter, but if he cannot, to do so as quickly as possible after the beginning of the chapter, which the prior intends to continue and adjourn for various reasonable causes to St John the Baptist [24 June]. He is to treat with and offer advice and assistance to the prior and his fellow monks concerning the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 13 May.
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f.51v   [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Nessbitt, [monk of Durham and] prior of Coldingham), informing him that the prior believes his presence will be opportune at the next annual chapter, to be held in the chapter house, for the state of the monastery to be more readily reformed and other difficult and pressing matters to be expounded at greater length, especially the grave and urgent necessity thereof, etc., so [the remainder] word-for-word to the end as contained in the letter immediately preceding.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.174 where the passage omitted here is supplied from the previous letter.
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f.51v-52r   29 February 1452
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to John Levesham, vicar of the church of Northallerton, for £20 for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and customarily paid from the vicar thereof.
Date: Durham, 29 February 1451/2
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f.52r   1 May 1452
Letter of attorney by William, prior of Durham, appointing John Whelpyngton', rector of the church of St Peter the Less, and John Marshall' of York, draper, as his attorneys, to seek, demand, levy and receive 76s 8d from John Huett, clerk, for which he is indebted to the prior and his fellow monk, Henry Helay, by reason of a loan, to distrain for the same 76s 8d, to detain and release the goods distrained', and to do all and sundry which can and should be lawfully done, and is necessary in this regard.
Date: Durham, 1 May 1452.
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f.52r-v   2 May 1451
Quitclaim by William, prior of Durham, to John Whelpyngton', rector of the church of York St Peter the Less and collector of farms of the priory's office of sacrist in York and Holtby, releasing and quitclaiming him from all actions, real and personal, which the prior has or may have against him in the future, by reason of any receipt, account and demand, or any other matter.
Date: Durham, 2 May 1451.
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f.52v   27 May [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that, since the truthful report of certain persons has brought to his notice that his fellow monk, John Moorby, who is under the rule of the prior of Coldingham, is conducting himself in an immoderate and dissolute fashion: going around the streets of the vill, entering the chief houses of the laity, excessively frequenting common taverns and indulging in ale, contrary to the decency of their religion [and] to his own detriment, he requests the prior of Coldingham, in his place and by virtue of his mandate, in declaring this to John before all the monks staying with the prior of Coldingham, to restrain him back from such transgressions so that he, disposing himself to the fruit of a better life, desists from such improper running about and conforms to the behaviour of his fellow monks, so that the prior is not compelled to apply such a remedy that John will be afraid to commit similar [acts]. He is to inform the prior speedily by letter if John delays obeying his monition in any way.
Date: Durham, 27 May.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.175.
Digitised version

f.52v-53r   31 May 1452
Letters testimonial, by William, prior of Durham, that, through the malice of certain envious persons, upright and serious persons are in doubt (as the prior is informed) whether a certain woman, Juliana Werdale, commonly called alias Botiller, the natural mother of Walter Castell', now dwelling in the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, did not originate in England and was not born of English parentage; by the testimony and truthful assertion of many trustworthy elderly persons, men and women, of sixty years of age, who are now still in Durham, and after due enquiry, the prior recognises and declares that the said Juliana had been born and was held and known to be of English origin, as many persons related to her now remain in the city of Durham. In order to remove any doubt, the prior asserts that Juliana had been born of English stock, like her relations and descendants, who are supported by the testimony of a considerable number of persons.
Date: Durham, 31 May 1452.
Digitised version

f.53r-v   [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the abbot of Melrose in Scotland), expressing his thanks for his immense favours and diligent efforts, especially touching the prior's fellow monks and the prosperity of the cell of Coldingham; and recalling to him how many signs of affection {there had been} between him and the prior's fellow monk, John Oll', when he was alive, and how much pure feeling and steadfast faith John Oll had extended to the abbot, which the prior has felt too. Since a certain sum of money, £20 English, owed to his said fellow monk and monastery by the abbot, remains in arrears for certain causes sufficiently known to the abbot, the prior enteats him to despatch the aforesaid sum with all speed and to send his pleasure in all these matters by letter.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.177-178.
Digitised version

f.53v   8 June [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marchall'), stating that the prior has arranged to send to him his fellow monk, John Gatesheved' for certain difficult and pressing matters, especially in the next convocation at York. He asks him by the presents to admit John favourably, in whom he should place confidence in explaining matters on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 8 June.
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f.53v-54r   8 June [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Richard Wetwange), stating that he has arranged for his fellow monk, John Gatesheved', bearer of the presents, to meet with him, to whom he should show favour in relating matters in the prior's place, as the prior places firm hope in Richard.
Date: Durham, 8 June.
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f.54r   12 & 18 June 1452
Memorandum that two letters were issued, for recalling and sending John Ryhall' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Lytham to the cell of Finchale, dated Durham, 12 June 1452, and Thomas Hexham [monk of Durham] from the cell of St Leonard's Stamford to the cell of Lytham, dated Durham, 18 June 1452, in the common form.
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f.54r   30 May 1452
Memorandum that one corrody or place, lately belonging to (blank), in le Meason de dieu was granted for life to Thomas Cooke alias Grysmer', by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the similar corrody granted to John Bloodlatter' alias Closterer', previously written in this register on the fourth folio from the beginning [f.4v-5r].
Date: Durham, 30 May 1452.
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f.54r-v   19 July [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that the prior of Coldingham is aware that he had promised, when he was last with the prior of Durham, to provide him with a certain sum of money, as had been discussed and agreed between the prior and his fellow monks. The prior asks him to arrange for the payment of the aforementioned without delay, knowing that, because of this promise, the prior has undertaken the construction of many costly buildings in mills and manors; he believes the prior is pursuing a favourable conclusion to these, as he infers from many indications.
Date: Durham, 19 July.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.176-177.
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f.54v-55r   [27 December ?1451]
Letter (margin: by Mr Richard Wetwange), (margin: to [William], prior [of Durham]), making known his opinion on these matters which the prior's letter disclosed, that, if a licence should be granted by the local bishop during his visitation or when it has been ended ( “dissoluta”) or at any other time to any regular, who is bound by a vow of profession to an abbot or prior, that he may undertake the execution of the testament of his father or any other person related to him or of an outside person, or that he may give consent to an election made outside his monastery ({there are [differing] opinions in this}), or stay outside the cloister or wander the streets, walled towns or cities, or roam through the courts of magnates, such licence has no force in these and similar cases as it has not been made by his judge; rather a special licence of his immediate prelate, an abbot or prior, is required to be both sought and obtained in these matters, since the same immediate prelate and no other is deemed a suitable judge in these as in all matters pertaining to penitential jurisdiction. If any of his religious without a special licence arrogantly set out to wander, roam or travel round overseas regions by an abominable and reprobate licence, he is to take care to reprove and correct them, lest he may rightly be censured for neglecting the observance of the rule. He is to explain to them that he who truly obeys a mandate does not delay but prepares himself to discharge it; that a vow of profession has regard for three things, obedience, chastity and poverty, and to transgress them makes [one] guilty of mortal sin; and what is noted in a text (quoted), along with other authorities whom he does not doubt the prior is bearing in mind. The institutes of the rule will thus be observed and the prior will attain a great reward for his labour for God's praise.
Date: York, St John the Evangelist.
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f.55r   August [?1452]
Letter of safe-conduct by William, prior of Durham, stating that he deems and recognises as his servants and those of his cell of Coldingham Andrew Water', Andrew Kennedye and Nicholas Cowper, Scots, originating within the realm of Scotland, who are travelling to the monastery of Durham to bring his animals and property safely; and asking all whom they might encounter in returning to Scotland not to molest, disturb or injure them in their persons or property, or permit others to do so, but to treat them favourably and benevolently.
Date: Durham, (blank) August.
Margin: letter of safe-conduct for three Scotsmen bringing animals from Coldingham to Durham.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.177.
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f.55r-v   20 August [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that he believes that the prior of Coldingham is aware that, when he was last with him, he made many requests for the removal and recall of his fellow monk, John Moorby, to Durham, because he is frail and suffering from infirmity, promising the prior and his other fellow monks, to whom he wished to disclose his plan, to pay a yearly pension to support the burden of [looking after] John more easily from the goods of the monastery. He therefore wills him to return John to Durham, if he is well enough to travel, with the prior of Coldingham's men and transportation and at his expense, on the condition that he fulfils his promise to him to maintain John. He is also to receive favourably another healthy fellow monk, who is to be sent in place of the said John to his cell of Coldingham with his same servants and transportation who will bring John to Durham, until he has a further mandate from him. He is to know that expenses will be provided for sending the monk to him in accordance with the usual custom of the monastery of Durham for sending monks to outlying cells, except for servants, horses and transportation, as he explained above, because of the dangers of war and the present ( “instans”) incursions between the English and Scots.
Date: Durham, 20 August.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.177-178.
Digitised version

f.55v-56r   24 August [?1452]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Sir James Strangways, knight), stating that, in answer to his letter, he is to understand that he has spoken with the officer, who should receive his payments for the tithes of Brompton, who has declared to the prior (who knows this to be true) how he is in great distress and need of money at this time to bear his necessary and daily charges. He therefore requests him to provide for that money which is due before today, to be sent to the prior by the bearer hereof, for he and his officer supposed when the same tithes were taken that he should have made payment for them in his own person at the usual terms of payment, and not that his reeve [?: “grayffe”] of Seamer should make payment or delay thereof. He further prays him to send 40s by the bearer, which is [outstanding] between him and the prior of the £4 owed by his father and remitted to the lesser sum.
Date: Durham, 24 August.
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f.56r   2 September 1452
Memorandum that a certain letter was issued in the common form for sending Robert Knowte [monk of Durham] to the cell of Coldingham.
Date: Durham, 2 September 1452.
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f.56r-v   10 September [?1452]
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior and the chapter of Durham), (superscription: to John, cardinal priest of S Balbina, archbishop of York [etc.]), expressing (at considerable length) his thanks to the archbishop for his help, comfort, care, generosity [etc.], (mentioning that he is praying for his prosperity and his parents, Thomas and Beatrice), and lamenting therefore that the archbishop has chosen a residence in the remotest parts of England. He entreats him to admit to a hearing his fellow monk, John Gateshevede, bearer of the presents, who is to make known to him in more detail what the prior has in mind, and for John, who hitherto has not left the archbishop's presence frustrated of his desire, to obtain, through the arcbishop's favour and clemency alone, what he requests.
Date: Durham, 10 September.
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f.56v-57r   [?1452]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe, proctor in the Roman curia), stating that he made clear to the prior from his recent letters, which the prior had gratefully received, how much he loves and cherishes the prior and monastery. The prior knew that he had expended continual effort and industry concerning the business of the monastery formerly committed to him, and much labour and some money to carry out his will in the matter of [eating meat at *] Septuagesima, so far without obtaining the desired result. Since he wished in his letter to be informed by the prior, namely, “in the case when this cannot be obtained by any other means than by a commission to the bishop of Durham to inform the apostolic see about the truth of the suggestion etc.”, the prior is advised not to attempt this way of proceeding. Therefore according to the instructions delivered to John on another occasion, the prior prays him to attempt this again and to pursue it to a result. He should know that if he should spend £20 in the event this is achieved, the prior will make provision for that amount. He should see fit to keep a watchful and prudent eye on this matter and others which touch the prior's honour, so that henceforth the prior becomes more disposed to that which can increase his prosperity and honour.
* See f.48r-v above.
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f.57r   4 October 1452
Memorandum that a quittance was issued to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, as for a pension of £9 3s 4d assigned to the master of Farne Island, according to the common form of a similar quittance previously written in this register on f.22[r-v].
Date: Durham, 4 October 1452.
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f.57v   20 October 1452
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Cales and Agnes, his wife, with the consent of his fellow monks, of one place or corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Robert Walworth' recently had, for the term of their lives and the longer lived of them, provided they enter the infirmary and remain there.
Date: Durham, 20 October 1452.
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f.57v   29 October 1452
Memorandum that a letter of recall was issued in the common form to bring Richard Wrake [monk of Durham] back from the cell of Holy Island to the monastery of Durham.
Date: Durham, 29 October 1452.
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f.57v   1 December 1452
Memorandum that two quittances, one for the pension of £6 13s 4d for the pension of [Kirby] Sigston and the other for the pension of Skipwith, namely, 13s 4d, owed to the communar and chancellor, were issued according to the common forms previously written in this register.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1452.
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f.58r   30 November 1452
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to John Portyngton', justice of King's Bench, for £12 6s 8d, by the hand of Robert Kelsay, in full payment of £24 13s 4d, owed to the prior for the tithes of corn, sheep and wool of the parish of Eastrington, for the terms of the Purification of Mary [2 February] 1451/2 and the Invention of the Cross [3 May] 1452.
Date: 30 November 1452.
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f.58r   5 April 1453
Memorandum that a quittance was issued for a pension of £20 from the church of [North]Allerton.
Date: 5 April 1453.
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f.58rf.58r
Remainder of page blank.
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f.58v   [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the archbishop of York), expressing his thanks for the comfort and favour he has often conferred on the prior and his fellow monks, and especially for his immense kindnesses to the prior's servant (“famulus”), newly resident with the archbishop, and entreating him on this occasion to consider [the prior's] servant ( “servitor”) and clerk, John Hexham, bearer of the presents, as specially recommended, such that he may be appointed by the archbishop as public notary by apostolic authority.
Date: Durham.
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f.58v   14 September [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Henry Fenwike, knight), stating that he has received his letter which was recently delivered to him, from which he understands that he wishes the prior and his fellow monks to give £4 to Robert Erghowe. He is to understand that they will at all times do him a service when they may rightfully do so, but the said Robert is no monk or brother of Durham but is utterly discharged therefrom, as has been proven before, nor do they owe him any goods. He writes that they should have in keeping gold, deeds, jewels and other goods of Robert and his brother, John Erghowe, but they truly have only one box with certain deeds, which they are ready to deliver to them at any time. As for the prior's lord Egremont, they will do him a service as they are bound to do, so that neither he nor the prior's lords, his father and brothers, shall have any cause to be displeased with them.
Date: Durham, 14 September.
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f.58*r   19 May 1453
Citation by William, prior of Durham, lawfully deputed in the general chapter of the Benedictine order last held at Northampton to visit the monastery of Coventry of the said order, to the prior and convent thereof, stating that, since he intends to visit them in person or by his commissaries in their chapter house on 30 June next, he cites the prior and all and sundry of the convent to appear in person on the said day and place before him or his commissaries, one or many. He commands the prior to forewarn and cite, or cause to be forewarned and cited, all and sundry of his fellow monks who by right or custom should be present at a visitation, to appear with him on the said day and place. By letters patent reciting the contents hereof, he is to certify him or his commissaries on the said day and place as to what he has done in the aforementioned and of the names of all those he has cited.
Date: Durham, 19 May 1453.
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f.58*r-v   18 June 1453
Commission by William, prior of Durham, specially deputed {in} the provincial {chapter} of the Benedictine order last held at Northampton to visit the monastery of Coventry of the said order, to Richard Bell', B.Th. and warden of [Durham] College Oxford {and Richard Shirburne, his fellow monks}, to visit the monastery of Coventry, its prior, convent and individual monks on the days and places appointed in his letters of citation, to inquire, both in spiritualities and temporalities, into any transgressions, faults and other matters relevant to the visitation, and to correct, punish and duly reform them, and to do all else which belongs to the prior by reason of the visitation or by right or custom, or which he could do if he were present in person, as the prior is prevented from attending because of various, pressing business of the monastery.
Date: 18 June 1453.
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f.58*v   12 June 1453
Proxy by William, prior of Durham, appointing his fellow monk, Richard Bell', B.Th. and warden of [Durham] College Oxford, as proctor and excusator to appear on his behalf in the coming provincial chapter of the black monks of England to be held by apostolic authority at Northampton on Monday, 2 July next, with authority to swear to the truth of his excuses, to treat with those present, to agree to everything which is determined in the chapter by the president or presidents, and to do all else which is necessary or appropriate to his office, as the prior is unable to go in person for certain true and legitimate reasons, namely, ill-health and old age.
Date: Durham, 12 June 1453.
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f.58*v-59r   10 January 1453
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (to the warden of Durham College Oxford), stating that, since as the prior is informed, William Benson' and Thomas Bemesley, scholars of [Durham] College Oxford, had left there, he has determined at the special request of the bishop of Durham that Thomas Passelay and William Taillour, originating in the lordship of Howdenshire, be admitted by him in place of William [Benson] and Thomas [Beinesley]. He commands him to examine the said Thomas [Passelay] and William [Taillour] and, if they are found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive them favourably as scholars of the college, after they have first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 10 January 1452/3.
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f.59r   5 January [14]53
Memorandum that three letters were issued in the common form, to remove and transfer firstly John Hoton' [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale, secondly John Kyrke [monk of Durham] from there [Finchale] to Jarrow, and thirdly William Byrden' [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Holy Island.
Date: Durham, 5 January [14]52/3.
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f.59r   28 February 1453
Memorandum that a letter was issued for removing Richard Blakeburne [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale.
Date: Durham, 28 February 1452/3.
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f.59r   1 March 1453
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to James Strangwasse, knight, for £7 in full payment of £14 owed to the prior for the corn tithes of the vill of Brompton for 1451.
Date: Durham, 1 March 1452/3.
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f.59r-v   1 March 1453
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to Agnes Tyddeswell' of Durham, with the consent of his fellow monks, of one place or corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which (blank) recently had, provided that she enters the infirmary and remains there.
Date: Durham, 1 March 1452/3.
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f.59v   17 March [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that he prays and requires him to appear at or, if possible, before the next annual chapter, along with the other administrators of the prior's cells, so that with his advice and diligence the prior's intentions may more readily be put into effect.
Date: Durham, 17 March.
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f.59v-60r   12 March 1453
Grant by indenture by William, prior of Durham, to Alexander Robynson' of the office of forester of the prior's park of Hayning and the keeping of Hoterell, the moor, woods, ponds, quarries and his entire warren in the lordship of Weardale, for as long as he conducts himself well and faithfully in the same office; for his faithful service the prior has granted to him 5s yearly and one valet's garment every year when he or his successors make a general livery of cloth, and two strikes of wheat every three weeks, to be received by the hands of the farmers of his manor of Westoe, and all the branches of trees to be given or felled by wind (provided they do not fall down through general tempest) in which timber cannot be found, with the exception of those trees which will be taken up for the use of the prior or his successors and those which will be given to his fellow monks of Durham in the aforesaid park and Hoterell. The prior grants him one house and one and a half acres of land in the vill and field of Nether Heworth, which the other foresters before him have had, for his dwelling, to be repaired, when necessary, by Alexander at his own expense. Alexander grants and binds himself and all his moveable and immoveable goods, wherever found, to keep faithfully the park, Hoterell, the moor, wood, [etc.], for as long as he has their keeping, or will cause them to be kept by another reliable person if Alexander was unable to do so, or was broken by infirmity, weakness or old age, or prevented by another legitimate impediment. On entering the said office and keeping, he will within the following two years adequately repair at his own expense the entire enclosure of the said park of Hayning in stone walls, hedges and ditches, will maintain it throughout his entire time [as forester] and leave it in a good and adequate state of repair. Alexander grants that if he should sell or give any trees to any persons without the prior's mandate or if any damage to the value of 6s 8d should be caused to the prior or his successors in the aforesaid park, Hoterell, moor, wood [etc.] through the fault or negligence of Alexander or his deputy, and such injury comes to the notice of the prior from truthful information, or he commits any other notable fault, the prior and his successors may forever remove Alexander from the said office and keeping and substitute another at will in his place.
Date: Durham, 12 March 1452/3.
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f.60r
(Added at foot of page:) [single numeral too faint to read] day of June in the seventh year [of Prior William Ebchester ??]
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f.60r-v   1 October 1453
Mandate by William, prior of Durham, to the prior and his fellow monks of Holy Island, stating that, although it is prohibited in law by a special provision that any monk should wear a linen shirt and although the authority of the holy fathers decreed this, he has learned from the frequent complaint of trustworthy persons that a wicked custom, alien to the institutes of the fathers, had been growing for a considerable time in his outlying cells, namely, that certain monks are wearing linen shirts, to the perversion of the order and to the bad example of many others. The prior therefore commands and, by virtue of the obedience [owing him], orders them, just as he has directed the rest of his monks, to wear shirts of linsey-woolsey from now on, according to the ancient manner of the monastery and approved custom. He should know that the prior will endeavour to correct those who hold his mandate in contempt, so as not to set a precedent for others to commit similar deeds. If anyone neglects to obey this mandate, the prior of Holy Island is to inform the prior by letter, so that he who is not restrained from evil by a slight admonition may be constrained by a weightier punishment.
Date: Durham, 1 October 1453.
Margin: the prior's ordinance or mandate to the priors, masters and fellow monks staying outside [the monastery] about not wearing linen shirts.
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.35.
Digitised version

f.60v   14 February [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Gisseburne, vicar of Norham), reminding him that the prior had told him on many occasions how much trouble and how many obstacles ( “instancias”) he has experienced from the parishioners of the church of Norham and that he is presently suffering the withdrawal of the church's income because of John's non-residence in the cure there, to the prior's considerable injury, as the many writings and records thereof, sent and shown to him by the prior on other occasions, declare with more certainty. He therefore requires that the said cure be duly ministered without delay by John in person or at least by another suitable and reliable substitute, with whom the parishioners deem themselves content, considering that he promised the prior on frequent occasions that he would leave the vicarage in as great liberty and quiet as he received it. Moreover, concerning the same case of non-residence, as the legatine laws intend, Robert Ogle, knight, recently wrote to the prior on behalf of the parishioners, that they do not wish to pay the income or debts of the church, as the said letter, enclosed herewith, reveals. He therefore wishes him to know for certain, that, if the prior's income and profit of the said church are withdrawn from him, he cannot pay John Gisseburn's yearly pension. He requests him in all these matters to apply a prompt remedy, to the prior's advantage and John's honour.
Date: Durham, 14 February.
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f.61r   14 February [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Folbery, advocate (“causidico”) in London), asking him to have the prior's letters, attached hereto, delivered to John Gysseburne, chaplain and cross-bearer (“croyser”) to the archbishop of York, by a trustworthy and impartial person. He prays him especially to endeavour to carry out the intent of the writing that Mr John Burne is sending to him, trusting that the prior and his fellow monks will work for John's advancement for his great virtues and merits and especially for the service they trust to do Robert in this regard.
Date: Durham, 14 February.
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f.61r   27 April [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Wyghall', attorney in the king's exchequer), whereas it is supposed that there is a proposal that certain efforts be made in the future against the monastery of Durham in London, he requests him, if anything should be attempted in the chancery, king's bench or common pleas against the prior [and convent ?] by any person, spiritual or temporal, or any attorney of northern parts, to resist their intent, and to give his attention to such efforts, if they should occur, so that no proceeding is taken against them and their right; rather he is to act on their behalf and to certify them thereof. If he thinks it expedient in time of necessity, he should show this letter to the prior's friend, John Wyghall's master, Robert Danby, that he may give assistance.
Date: Durham, 27 April.
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f.61r-v   28 April [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of Durham), stating that, since he recently received notice by his letter that he greatly desired certain books, namely, Pliny and Isidore's De naturis rerum, and advising him that they do not have these very rare books; neverthless, not content with this, he caused the register of all their books to be closely examined but they were not found. He therefore entreats him to excuse him in this regard since he would willingly send them if they were to be had in the monastery.
Date: Durham, 28 April.
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f.61v   11 March [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Fenwike, chaplain of Norham), stating that, concerning the matter about which he wrote to the prior, the terrar in part has declared John's intention to the prior, although not as plainly as John wrote to him. The prior remembers well that a year ago he heard talk of an exchange between the vicar of Norham and the master of Bolton. Nonetheless the prior informs him that he has written to the vicar of Norham to come and keep his cure, as he ought to do of right. The vicar has certified him again that at Easter, if possible, or else before Whitsun he will come to cuntre, and either reside in his cure or ordain otherwise, such that God and the parishioners will be pleased. The prior cannot make any promise until he knows how the vicar will be inclined in that regard.
Date: Durham, 11 March.
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f.61v   3 May [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to John Nevile, knight), whereas he is informed that John's servants have recently distrained at Hunsley for certain services to be done to his manor of Cottingham, the prior sends his fellow monk, the bearer hereof, with certain evidence in that regard, beseeching him to look after their rights as his ancestors did at all times, and the prior and his fellow monks shall be his bedesmen.
Date: Durham, 3 May.
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f.62r   3 May [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Moston', jurist (“jurisperito”)), thanking him for his labours for the prior, and especially for his good answer, sent to the prior by his servant, John Hulke, in the matter of Hunsley and Drewton. He asks him to continue his good advice by appearing personally with the prior's fellow monk, the bearer hereof, in the exhibiting to Sir John Nevile and his counsel of his evidence and other things which seem expedient to William.
Date: Durham, 3 May.
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f.62r   June [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to Mr John Marchall', residentiary of York), asking him to show himself favourable to the fines of the prior's church of Giggleswick being suspended until the [archbishop] of York come to cuntre. The prior trusts that at that time, with John's good advice, he shall exhibit such evidence that the [archbishop] will be content. John should send one sequestration to the parson of Holtby for non-payment of his pension, due to the bursar for the past two years.
Date: Durham, (blank) June.
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f.62r-v   15 June [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Ralph Percy, knight, lieutenant of the East March), thanking him for his support and favour shown to the church [of Durham] and especially for graciously receiving his fellow monk, John Pencher', lately attending (“sewynge”) to him for delivery of the tithes of lambs in Northumberland, which he reserves to the store and profit of the monastery as this year; he entreats him to have them delivered to the prior's servants, whom he is sending for them, as Ralph promised John Pencher', as he reported to the prior on Ralph's behalf.
Date: Durham, 15 June.
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f.62v   [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marchall'), expressing his thanks for his many efforts and diligent labour in the prior's affairs, and entreating him to grant a favourable hearing to the prior's fellow monk, Richard Bell, bearer of the presents and special nuncio, (whom the prior has sent to John Marchall' for various business incumbent on him) to place confidence in him, and to bestow favour and protection on him in carrying out the prior's business.
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f.62v-63r   [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marchall'), entreating him to be a singular refuge, to defend his rights and promote favourable outcomes before the present archbishop of York, on behalf of the prior in any liberties, privileges and prerogatives of the church of Durham; and praying him to place confidence in the prior's fellow monk, bearer of the presents, in what he is to declare to him on his behalf, and to provide for a speedier conclusion of his business.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
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f.63r-v   31 May [?1453]
Letter (superscription [sic]: by William, prior and the chapter of Durham), (superscription: to W[illiam], archbishop of York [etc.]), giving thanks that such an excellent pastor, father and ardent supporter of divine worship was provided for them and the province of York, who, the prior is confident, will preserve ecclesiastical liberty intact and uninjured. The prior therefore has recourse to him, entreating him that the privileges and liberties of the church of Durham, which had been conferred and given by his predecessors, may in future remain intact and uninjured by his gift and may flourish. He humbly requests him to admit his fellow monk, Richard Bell, bearer of the presents, to a hearing to put forward on the prior's behalf what he has in mind, and to have faith in him.
Date: Durham, 31 May.
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f.63v-64r   22 September [?1453]
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Coldingham), stating that he has learned from a truthful report that his fellow monks, John Dorwarde and Robert Knoute, who are staying with the prior of Coldingham, are wearing the religious habit but are not observing a regular life and suitable manner of living; rather by their deeds they are impugning the honour of their order. Against regular discipline they (as is related) are immoderately roaming around the townships and their streets throughout the area and suspect places, inappropriate to their order, rousing themselves before secular persons on many occasions with shameful and abusive words and deeds, thus harming the order, scandalising people and giving a pernicious example to others. He therefore commands him to admonish the said monks who have been summoned before him (rather, more accurately, the prior of Durham is admonishing them in virtue of the obedience [owed him] through the prior of Coldingham) not to eat or drink in the township of Coldingham, except in the prior's presence, or go outside the walls of the monastery of Coldingham without his special licence, with the reason for the journey, the destination and the period of the return known and fixed in advance. He wishes the prior of Coldingham not to be too willing to grant such licence, unless some grave necessity or obvious benefit demands it. He is to inhibit them from violently drawing knives or other arms in threatening any persons, secular or regular, and from pursuing other shameful acts. If they do not obey his aforementioned regular mandates, as obliged, or are found to be contumacious or disobedient, he is to notify the prior of Durham by letter without delay, so that he can bestow a salutary remedy on the offenders.
Date: Durham, 22 September.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.178-179.
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f.64r   22 September [?1453]
Mandate by William, prior of Durham, to John Dorwarde and Robert Knowte, (margin: [monks of Durham] staying at Coldingham), stating that for the legitimate reasons moving him and because their faults, as the prior is thoroughly informed, demand it, he wishes to call them back from dishonest and illicit transgressions, commanding them not to go anywhere outside the walls of the monastery of Coldingham, unless a quite serious necessity demands it, and then [to do so only] with licence of the prior of Coldingham, in accordance with the tenor of the mandate which he sent to the prior of Coldingham, [and which] is to be expounded to them, under penalty of a quite severe punishment, which the prior of Durham intends to employ against the person of an offender. He orders them henceforth to refrain from insults and abuse, from blows (or the threats thereof) and the drawing of knives, and quickly to adopt a better manner of living.
Date: Durham, 22 September.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.179-180.
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f.64r-v   7 October [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Henry Fenwike, knight), informing him that he has received his letter lately sent to him, from which he understands that it is claimed that Robert Erghowe is a monk of Durham and member of the monastery of Durham. He is to know, as the prior has written to him not long ago, that Robert is not a monk, brother or member of his place, but utterly discharged thereof, as the prior is informed by the most learned men in [the court of] Arches of London [and] the courts of Canterbury, Lincoln, York and various other places. As for the presentation of an outside living ( “outewarde lyveloode”), the prior knows of no lawful faculty granted to Robert at this time by which he might be promoted, but rather the prior would lose (“leese”) the presentation and Robert not be successful therein. Concerning his brother, John Erghowe, who desires certain goods and deeds, the prior does not have and has not received any of his goods, as he will declare, except one box with certain deeds, which he is ready to deliver to him at any time, as the writing he recently sent to Henry plainly shows. As for the prior's lord Egremont, he will do him service to the best of his ability so that neither he, nor the prior's lords, his father and brothers, nor Henry shall have cause to be displeased with the prior in any way.
Date: Durham, 7 October [no A. D.]
Digitised version

f.64v-65r   30 September 1453
Apppointment by William, prior of Durham, of his fellow monk, Mr John Burnby, S.T.P., as prior or warden of [Durham] College Oxford, with authority to govern the college and all and sundry pertaining to it, both within and without, to regulate his fellow monks and secular scholars, and to correct the latter and, when required, to expel them at his discretion, with the advice of his fellow monks studying there; and commanding them to obey him as prior or warden in all the aforementioned pertaining to them.
Date: Durham, 30 September 1453.
Printed: The Obituary Roll of William Ebchester and John Burnby, ed. J. Raine, (Surtees Society 31, 1856), p.xiii n.
Digitised version

f.65r   1453
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of St Cuthbert in Howdenshire, of John Fletsher' of Howden, as apparitor of the prior's said spirituality and of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, to cite, admonish, certify and summon all and sundry subjects of the spirituality, whenever by public report they are suspected of a crime, to appear before the keeper of the spirituality or his commissary, on certain days and places to be assigned by John, to receive what justice will recommend, and to do all else, according to the mandate of the keeper or his commissary, which pertains by right or custom to the office; with the presents to last at the prior's will only.
Date: Durham, (blank) 1453.
Digitised version

f.65r   1453
Memorandum that a letter was issued in the common form for receiving Stephen Sharpp' of Durham diocese as scholar of Durham College Oxford.
Date: Durham, (blank) 1453.
Digitised version

f.65v-66r   27 October 1453
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to a proctor at the papal curia ?] stating that he has not forgotten the effort and care which he took for the prior and monastery, for which he thanks him. The prior is deeply troubled, considering how much the withdrawal of divine worship has increased the destitution of the poor and needy through the appropriations of hospitals, chantries and especially churches with the cure of souls, which were made before he undertook his rule [as prior]. Although the bishop of Durham by his letters and authority has joined to the collegiate church of Darlington and appropriated the church, distinguished and abounding in a great number of parishioners, of Haughton [le Skerne] in the diocese of Durham, and has written to the prior on many occasions to obtain confirmation of the appropriation by the chapter, the prior has delayed giving his confirmation since he received a strict mandate in the king's name that he should not concede a confirmation. Divine worship previously flourished in the church, which cured the destitution of many wretched persons and provided relief to paupers, all of which would change if his confirmation was in force. He entreats him, whom he knew to be a zealous supporter of the church, to take care lest the pope direct letters to the prior, commanding or binding anything in this matter or any other which would result in harm to the prior or prejudice to his liberties. He expects the bishop of Durham and the dean of the aforesaid church of Darlington to make requests to the pope in order to obtain a mandate to the prior on this matter, which he is to take care to avoid. If they obtain anything, he is to send a copy to the prior.
Date: Durham, 27 October 1453.
Digitised version

f.66r   1453
Memorandum that one quittance, for the master and scholars of Balliol [Hall] Oxford for the pension owed for the church of Longbenton, was issued according to the form previously written in this register on (blank) preceding.
Date: {1} (inserted in space left blank) {J} [June or July] (inserted in a blank space) 1453.
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f.66r   1 December 1453
Quittance [by William, prior of Durham], to Mr William le Scropp', prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, for 13s 4d for the term of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham from the prebendary of the said prebend and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1453.
Digitised version

f.66v   [?1453]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marchall' for John Makelez), informing him that [the bishop] of Durham has written to the prior insistently on many occasions to appoint John Makelez, bearer of the presents, apparitor of the prior's jurisdiction in Howdenshire, notwithstanding that it was made known to [the bishop] on behalf of the prior that Geoffrey Middelton, his sheriff [of Durham], and Thomas Maners, esquire, have made numerous approaches to the prior for various persons and which man ( “quem”) the said Thomas advanced to the prior to be admitted as apparitor. Not content with this, [the bishop] is making entreaty for the promotion of John Makelez, as the prior was hoping to obtain something from him henceforth. Unable to bear his displeasure without grave cost, the prior requests John Marchall' to admit the said John as apparitor without delay, excluding any other person although he had been admitted and appointed first.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.66v-67r   12 December [?1453]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Thomas, lord Egremont), stating that he has received his letters, recently delivered by John Erghowe, concerning the delivery and restoration of certain money and jewellery of the said John. By information given to lord Egremont, this was claimed to have been delivered to the prior and officers of Durham, especially after the report of John to dom Robert Westmerlande [late monk of Durham and chancellor]. His lordship should understand that in the presence of John the prior examined certain of his fellow monks who were present at the deed of Robert Westmerlande and were most familiar with him; they said that they were not aware that the said Robert had any gold, jewels or other goods in [his] keeping of Robert Erghowe or his brother, John, notwithstanding that they had on various occasions asked him whether any goods or jewels belonging to other men were in his keeping, and that he never acknowledged that any money or jewels of Robert or John Erghowe, or anyone of that name, had been received and put in his keeping. After his deed, the prior found among his evidence one box with deeds and evidence, which he has been ready at all times to deliver to the said John. The prior beseeches his lordship not to be displeased with him in any way, as he will at all times do him service to the best of his ability.
Date: Durham, 12 December.
Digitised version

f.67r-v   [?1453]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr John Laxe, LL.D., papal official ( “curtisano”) in the Roman curia (described in the margin as “proctor”)), expressing his thanks for his immense efforts and diligence which he has expended (as the prior knows by plentiful experience) concerning the matter, formerly committed to him, of the monastery of Durham and its dependent cells. The prior has not forgotten the confirmatory letters of the present pope which John's assiduous diligence and toil obtained for the cell of Coldingham. Nonetheless, the prior recently learned from the report of certain persons, in whom he should rightly place credence, that the king of Scots, with the concurrence of certain of his bishops and lords, was endeavouring to seize and alienate from the prior and his possession the cell of Coldingham, although it has been strengthened by the ratifications, even confirmations, by apostolic authority of the gifts of his progenitors, as clearly evident to John. As intimated to the prior, the king's proctor, who is travelling to the curia, has been particularly recommissioned for the prosecution of this matter and its final completion with many suggestions and instructions. He therefore requests John to give advice, help and labour, whenever opportune in these and other matters touching the prior, so that they are frustrated in their unjust desires and it is recognised that they are disturbing and molesting his liberty and justice and attempting anything unusual. When a suitable occasion presents itself, he is to reply in writing to the prior concerning these and other matters, about which the prior wrote to him on other occasions, especially the matter of [eating meat at *] Septuagesima. To achieve a favourable outcome to this, he may explain to the pope how devotedly they revere the church of Rome, since the father of the monastery of Bury in their triennial general chapter explained in more detail and declared publicly to the fathers of the order congregated there that the monastery of Durham contributed more money to the Roman church for an indulgence in the jubilee year than any three monasteries in England. May [the pope] therefore see fit mercifully to give his assent to what the prior [and convent], his very devoted sons, are humbly requesting.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
* See f.48r-v above.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.180-181.
Digitised version

f.67v   5 May 1454
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to John Portyngton', justice of king's bench, for £24 13s 4d owed to the prior for the tithes of corn, lambs and wool of the entire parish of Eastrington for the terms of the Purification of Mary [2 February] 1453/4 and the Invention of the Cross [3 May] 1454.
Date: Durham, 5 May 1454.
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f.68r   5 March [?1454]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: John Nevile, knight), whereas he and his wife have written to the prior for the vacancy of vicar in the church of Edlingham, whose desire he could not at that time satisfy for various reasonable causes, he now trusts to do them service in that regard, as the bearer, Mr William Newton', will show them more clearly, to whom he asks them to grant credence and audience on the prior's behalf in this matter.
Date: Durham, 5 March.
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f.68r   1 July 1454
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to James Strangwasse, knight, for £7 in part payment of £14 owed to the prior for the corn tithes of the vill of Brompton for 1453.
Date: Durham, 1 July 1454.
Digitised version

f.68r   1 June 1454
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one for returning William Byrden' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Holy Island to the monastery of Durham and the other for sending Robert Youdale [monk of Durham] from the monastery to Holy Island.
Date: Durham, 1 June 1454.
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f.68v   12 June 1454
Letter of confraternity and consorority by letters patent by William, prior of Durham, to John Power', with the unanimous consent and will of his chapter, repaying him for the devotion and affection which he has for the monastery of Durham, which the prior has learned by experience; and granting to him and Margaret, his wife, William Power' and Emma, his wife, and John Power' and Agnes, his wife, their forebears and parents, perpetual participation in all masses, orisons, vigils, fasts, prayers and other good works in the monastery of Durham and its dependent cells.
Date: Durham, 12 June 1454.
Digitised version

f.68v   30 June 1454
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one for removing Thomas Hexham [monk of Durham] from the cell of Lytham to the cell of Monkwearmouth and the other for similarly removing Thomas Whele [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to Lytham.
Date: Durham, 30 June 1454.
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f.68v   July [?1454]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: John Nevile, knight), whereas the prior is informed that he wishes evidence concerning the town of Hunsley and his manor of Cottingham to be exhibited at this time of Lammas [1 August], the prior sends by his fellow monk, the bearer hereof, certain evidence under seal in that regard, beseeching him to have regard for his rights, as his progenitors have done before him.
Date: Durham, (no day) July.
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f.69r   21 December 1453
Memorandum that one corrody or place in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, was granted to Agnes Cuthbert alias Cooke by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the similar grant to Agnes Tyddeswell', previously written in this register on the tenth folio preceding [f.59r-v, not counting inclusively].
Date: 21 December 1453.
Digitised version

f.69r   1 April 1454
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of John Hoton [monk of Durham], as cellarer of Finchale, under the prior thereof, provided that he renders an account every month to the prior and monks thereof of all receipts and expenses. He is to show the presents to the prior thereof so that he admits him to the said office.
Date: Durham, 1 April 1454.
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f.69r   1 March 1455
Quittance by William, prior of Durham, to the prior of Brinkburn, for 3s 4d for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and chapter of Durham for the church of [Long] Horsley, and customarily paid from of old to the office of sacrist of Durham.
Date: 1 March 1454/5.
Digitised version

f.69r   4 September 1453
Memorandum that one corrody or place in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, was granted to Agnes, widow of Th[omas] Robynson' alias Milner' by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the letter for John Cales for a similar corrody, previously written in the present register on the fourteenth folio [preceding, f.57v].
Date: Durham, 4 September 1453.
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f.69v   31 August [?1454]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Ralph Babthropp', esquire), thanking him for his affection for the monastery and their rights in Howdenshire; whereas he has certain knowledge that the bailiff of his sources of revenue ( “lyveloode”) in Hemingbrough, belonging to the chamberlain of Durham, has died, and that one fishgarth pertaining to the said officer is presently unleased without a farmer and anyone's covenant, the prior therefore proposes, with the consent of his fellow monks, to appoint a bailiff there, and also to put to farm the fishgarth at a higher price than previously, for the furtherance of his chamberlain's office which is presently in great need of help. He prays him to have regard for the welfare of the monastery and to do nothing contrary to the prior's plan above, but to give his support until such time as he and the prior have discussion about this and other matters. Concerning William Goldesburgh', his receiver, the prior is informed that he is no more necessary or useful to the said officer [the chamberlain] than the last bailiff was in his office. As to how he is to rule or else discharge him, the prior will take advice from his fellow monks and learned counsel about directing that officer and all officers in that region.
Date: Durham, 31 August.
Printed in: Thomas Burton, The history and antiquities of the parish of Hemingbrough in the county of York, ed. J. Raine (York 1888) p.393.
Digitised version

f.69v-70r   1 September [?1454]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Th[omas] Warde, [monk of Durham and] prior of Holy Island), whereas the prior was unaware that Robert Ogle, knight, had any lease or interest in the tithes of Ancroft, but only John Alban', he made a grant of the same tithes to Sir Ralph Gray, on the condition that he should make full payment of the old arrears for the tithes of Heaton and find sufficient surety of payment for the prior for his new lease where the prior would [choose to] have it within the bishopric of Durham. He made this promise freely, without compulsion on the prior's part, but this promise and record, made before notable persons, is not being kept on his behalf, nor is Robert Ogle paying for the said tithes but, to the great harm of the monastery, is in arrears from year to year. Since it has not been demised to anyone for this year, but the prior will gather and take possession of it for his own use and profit, for various considerations and to avoid great strife which might otherwise arise, the prior requests him to arrange for the gathering of the said tithes to Holy Island or Fenham until the prior shall make final arrangements for them.
Date: Durham, 1 September.
Digitised version

f.70r   25 September 1454
Memorandum that a certain letter was issued in the common form for receiving Brian Holme, originating in the lordship of Howdenshire, as scholar of Durham College Oxford.
Date: 25 September 1454.
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f.70r   27 September 1454
Memorandum that two letters, one for the appointment of William Elwike and Richard Billyngham [monks of Durham] as bursars of Durham College Oxford and the other for appointing them as confessors thereof, were issued, according to the forms previously written in the present register on fols 6[v] and 8[r], counting from the beginning.
Date: 27 September 1454.
(Remainder of page blank)
Digitised version

f.70v   30 September 1454
Memorandum that a certain commission to Mr John Marchall' to visit the parish churches of Holtby, Skipwith, Hemingbrough, Howden, Eastrington, Brantingham, Welton, and their dependent chantries and chapels was issued according to the form previously written in this register, on f.5[r-v], counting from the beginning.
Date: 30 September 1454.
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f.70v   30 September 1454
Memorandum that a certain letter, for recalling Richard Shyrburne and Thomas Caly [monks of Durham] from the studium or cell of Oxford to the monastery of Durham, was issued in the common form.
Date: Durham, 30 September 1454.
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f.70v   5 November [?1454]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Langton' and Mr Richard Wetwang', advocates of the court of York), stating that the detailed, verbal report of Mr John Marchall', keeper of the spirituality and the prior's jurisdiction in Howdenshire, has recently come to his notice, that when John Marchall', in keeping with long established and approved custom and the liberty [of the monastery and] with the assent of the vicars, clergy and people, arranged personally to hold a synod and general chapter in the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, the present provost there, Mr Thomas Candell', unjustly resisted him and refused to admit the prior and his commissary, to the grave cost of the said liberty and the obvious violation of the provost's oath. The prior therefore requires and requests him, with the advice of John Marchall', to act vigilantly and diligently against the said provost without delay, constantly prosecuting him in the court of York, as the degree of his fault requires, resulting in his deprivation, if this can be done canonically. He is sending to him with the bearer of the presents a certain proxy and appeal on the prior's behalf, to achieve a speedier and more assured conclusion to this business.
Date: Durham, 5 November.
Digitised version

f.70v-71r   5 November [?1454]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Ralph Babthropp', esquire), whereas he and his father have been particular defenders of the prior's spiritual jurisdiction, liberties and privileges and of his temporal franchises within Howdenshire, and have been for the prior in the office of steward in that region, he prays them to continue; the prior is informed that recently Robert, his son, [and] Girarde Salvan', with a great number of their followers, unlawfully supporting the provost of the church of Hemingbrough against his liberties, have prevented Mr John Marchall' from carrying out the said liberties in the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, to whose erection [as a collegiate church] Ralph's father was well disposed and provided advice and labour. The prior asks him to provide a remedy in this regard since, as the prior supposes, this offence was done without Ralph's knowledge or will, and to charge those connected with him to desist and instead to support the prior's spiritual and temporal rights in Ralph's absence. Regarding all the aforementioned and the prior's intention for his temporal resources (“lyvelood”) in Howdenshire, recently sent in writing to Ralph *, he is to certify the prior quickly in writing as to his will.
Date: Durham, 5 November.
* See f.69v above.
Printed in: Thomas Burton, The history and antiquities of the parish of Hemingbrough in the county of York, ed. J. Raine (York 1888) p.394.
Digitised version

f.71r-v   [?c.1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], expressing his special thanks for carrying out the prior's business and entreating him, concerning the matter which has lately arisen touching the provost of the church of Hemingbrough, to be watchful and keen that what has begun favourably will with his advice, help and favour, has an even more favourable outcome, nor should he seriously say that the prior has up to now delayed sending letters to John Nevile, knight, in this matter; the prior was not unmindful of his own advantage and honour but was awaiting a suitable messenger whom he believes will be granted a hearing in an acceptable time; morever, in a certain cause newly arisen, touching his privileges and liberty in Allertonshire, as regards the raising of a subsidy for the archbishop, he is sending to him his household clerk, Mr John Hexham, with the presents. The prior exhorts him to promote the prior's business entrusted to John Hexham, which on the prior's behalf he will disclose to him in more detail, and to place confidence in what he has to say to him.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.71v   [?c.1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], informing him that he is sending to him his household clerk, Mr John Hexham, bearer of the presents, to conduct certain business, concerning the liberty and privileges of the monastery of Durham, with his help and favour, and entreating him to place confidence in John's reports and to bestow his protection and labour in such a way that with his favour and assistance the prior attains the desired outcome more quickly.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.71v-72r   [?c.1455]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the bishop of Durham's steward in Allertonshire], thanking him for his support and favour shown to his monastery and their rights and franchises; whereas the prior is reliably informed that when John Levesham, vicar of the church of [North]Allerton, was proposing to fell a tree in the chapel garth of Brompton for his necessary use, a great number of parishioners of the chapel gathered there, who do not and cannot have any interest therein by any law or reason, and resisted the vicar's plan. Considering the addressee's affection for the prior, in that he is [the bishop of Durham's] steward and officer in Allertonshire, [the vicar] would not make any proceeding in law against the parishioners without his knowledge. He is to to devise a reasonable remedy so that the church is not troubled with regard to this right nor its liberties impaired in any way, for the prior and his fellow monks will from their special grace allow the said vicar to fell and take possession of one tree, without claim or title accruing to the vicar or his successors in the future.
Digitised version

f.72r   [?c.1455]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], whereas the prior has often desired before, by his personal communication and by various other means and trouble taken and sent to him previously, to have an end to the matter, rightly belonging to his monastery, in the town and field of Ludworth, as yet to no effect. He therefore asks him to appoint a day after the twelfth and before the twentieth day of Christmas next, and then to send his counsel to Durham. The prior's learned counsel will be ready to confer with his to [reach] an agreeable conclusion to this matter. If he does not wish to comply with the prior's wish in the manner above, he is to excuse the prior if he pursues the right of the monastery in another lawful way, for his intention is at all times to enjoy his rights and goods by reasonable means, without causing displeasure or injury to him or any worthy person. He is to certify the prior speedily in writing as to how he will be inclined in that regard.
Digitised version

f.72r-v   8 April 1455
Commission by William, prior of Durham, granting to his fellow monk, Richard Barton', prior of the priory or cell of St Leonard's Stamford, full authority to absolve Thomas Greendyke, chaplain of Lincoln diocese, for any offences and injuries committed by reason of the unjust reckoning of the allowance or expenditure when he was proctor of the prior's parish church of Frampton, or for any injuries or offences to God and St Cuthbert before or after, on the condition that he makes satisfaction, as he is obliged, to the said Richard or his assign for what has been detained or removed, concerning whose assessment and declaration the prior charges Thomas's conscience.
Date: Durham, 8 April 1455.
Digitised version

f.72v-73r   [?1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Marchall'), thanking him for his daily diligent efforts for the sake of divine worship, and [the monastery's] liberties and rights. It has come to the prior's notice that it was agreeable to the archbishop of York for the provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough at John's request to be cited and forewarned to appear before the archbishop in his chancery, wherever he is in his diocese, concerning the profits and income belonging to the said church, on Tuesday next before St George [23 April], to render a faithful account and clear reckoning for any year of his provostship. Nevertheless, since this proposal is directly contrary to the ordinance of the said church (as an inspection of the ordinance makes clear), it seems to the prior that this should not be done, since it would result in obvious detriment and prejudice to his liberty. Rather, if John concurs, he wishes the provost cited and strictly compelled to render an account, according to the terms of the ordinance. He entreats him to give his support, advice and favour in defending the prior's liberties and privileges, as he has hitherto done. The prior will make satisfaction for any expenditure he makes because of this matter. He entreats him to urge and induce the archbishop from his special grace, according to the example of his predecessors, to renew, approve, ratify and recognise the prior's rights, privileges and liberties according to the tenor of the schedule enclosed in the presents.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.73r   [?1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Langton'), as in the letter immediately preceding, with the following additional clause:
In all the aforementioned, he is to communicate with John Marshall', since the prior is making known [to him] his intention and will concerning all these, just as [he has] to William, etc.

f.73r   31 January 1456
Memorandum that two letters, one for removing John Hoton' [monk of Durham] from Finchale to Jarrow and the other for removing John Kyrke [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Holy Island, were issued in the common form.
Date: 31 January 1455/6.
Digitised version

f.73r-v   20 January [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], thanking him for his assistance, favour [etc.] to him and his fellow monks, to the great profit of the monastery of Durham, and especially because he did not put into effect the rigour and severity of the authority committed to him, for the non-payment of the subsidy granted to the archbishop of York in the prior's benefices of Howdenshire. Rather, he has shown kindness and favour to the prior, as clearly apparent by his letter delivered at first on 18 January. Satisfaction will be made for the payment of the subsidy, according to the tenor thereof, as the bearer hereof shall declare more fully to him. It would not have been delayed until now if the prior had been informed how this matter stood, but would have been readily paid at his desire. The prior will at all times be as ready to do his duty and service to the archbishop as any other chaplains of his. He asks him, when he visits the archbishop, to recommend him, his daily orator and chaplain, with all his fellow monks, to him.
Date: Durham, 20 January.
Digitised version

f.73v-74r   1 February [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], informing him that at his request the prior and his fellow monks resolved that John Watkynson, bearer of the presents, whom he recommended to them, should be presented to the vacant fifth vicarage in the church of Hemingbrough. The prior is sending with John the confirmation of the late archbishop concerning the exercise of the prior's jurisdiction and liberty in Howdenshire, along with one copy of a certain missive letter of the same archbishop. He entreats him to exhibit or otherwise conceal this evidence, according to his judgement, as the matter requires, and thanks him wholeheartedly for his indefatigable efforts in defence of his liberty concerning the church of Hemingbrough. He entreats him that the work begun with his labour, advice and favour does not grow lukewarm but rather continually increases, so that their privileges are strengthened.
Date: Durham, 1 February.
Digitised version

f.74r-v   11 February [?1456]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr John Burne, vicar of Norham), thanking him for his immense diligence and labour, and especially for his careful managing of the repair of the chancel of the church of Edlingham, and entreating him to lend his assistance with regards to the stonework and any other necessary [repairs] for a speedy and proper conclusion to what he has so favourably begun. He is sending to him with the bearer of the presents some money to carry out the work undertaken, and the prior will repay him whatever he has paid in expenses from his or the prior's farms on account of this matter. Firmly hoping that he will amass great rewards, he congratulates him on the present harmonious accord of the nobles and magnates in his area, who were long in dispute, and especially that of Robert Ogle and the prior of Holy Island, whom he has set up in a bond of friendship and concord. He entreats him to go with the bearer of the presents to Robert Ogle senior, explaining to him how much injury he is inflicting on the prior, in unjustly seizing and detaining the prior's tithes and other property, to the grave cost of the monastery. He should induce him by any means to make satisfaction to the prior, as he is obliged. The prior wrote to him about this matter, a copy of which writing is enclosed in the presents. As soon as convenient he should put into effect the letter of suspension, to be exhibited with the presents, against John Clennel, according to the tenor thereof, and certify suitably and canonically its execution, declaring to the said John on the prior's behalf that the prior, preferring to employ a less severe remedy than the rigour of justice against him, so far has taken care only that he be denounced as suspended from entering a church, expecting if, thus erring, penitent and making satisification for what he has committed, he be recalled to the bosom of the church. If he obstinately persists, the prior will endeavour to subject him to aggravated excommunication, according to the demands of the law. He entreats him to bestow his advice on him and Robert Ogle, so that those who previously assailed the prior, now through his sound advice assert his rights and defend justice. He is to write back to the prior what conclusion he sees to this.
Date: Durham, 11 February.
Digitised version

f.74v-75r   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], stating that he has been informed that Thomas Hagreston', esquire, has recently committed various assaults and affrays upon the prior's fellow monk, Thomas Warde, prior of Holy Island, and upon other monks there, his tenants and servants; whereas he is an officer of [the bishop] of Durham as steward and justice of the peace, with power to make enquiry of all trespassers, rioters and debaters and to restore the peace, and whereas the prior was informed that a commission to so inquire and restore was directed to him, he requests him to make arrangements that his fellow monks, their tenants and servants may be set at peace against Thomas, his brothers and all others connected to them, especially now in the absence of the said [bishop]. He is to certify [the bishop] in his chancery, by virtue of his office and commission, of all offences and trespasses done to the prior's fellow monks, their tenants and servants, that the prior may report his diligent efforts in this matter to [the bishop].
Digitised version

f.75r-v   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], whereas he has desired certain tithes belonging to the prior and his monastery in Northumberland, in particular, the tithes of Ancroft, he is to understand that the prior cannot make any promise for the time coming, unless he satisfies the prior for the full payment of all arrears and finds sufficient surety of payment for a new lease hereafter, informing him that Sir Ralph Gray has persistently desired the same tithes and offered to find sufficient surety, to whom the prior gave such a reply that Ralph was reasonably content. The prior asks him to consider that he and his fellow monks cannot live and support their daily charge except by the revenues from their tithes and other income, of which a great part is from their tithes in Northumberland. He therefore requests him to satisfy him of the money due him by his father, his mother, his brothers, his children and himself. He sends with the bearer hereof an open declaration in writing of all these portions. He prays him to give his support that the law may be duly executed, without resistance, against those who wrongly occupy and without the prior's will or dimission withhold their tenths or other goods in that region, to the monastery's great harm and their damnation. Touching the priest of Cornhill who is now there, he thanks him for his good provision in that regard. The prior will shortly make arrangements for the priest which will please him [the addressee] and the parish.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.75v   12 April 1456
Grant by William, prior of Durham, to John Whelpyngton', rector of the church of York St Peter the Less, of full authority to absolve Thomas Doncastre', citizen of York, for any offences or injuries perpetrated and inflicted on the prior, his monastery or its dependent cells.
(Postscript:) With the consent and will of his fellow monks, he has granted to the same Thomas special participation in all prayers and spiritual goods of his aforesaid church.
Date: Durham, 12 April 1456.
Digitised version

f.75v   4 April 1456
Memorandum that a certain letter for receiving Christopher Avinegill' [or Avmegill'] of Durham diocese as scholar of [Durham] College Oxford was issued in the common form.
Date: Durham, 4 April 1456.
Digitised version

f.76r   14 March 1456
Memorandum that a letter for receiving and admitting Thomas Grene, originating in Allertonshire, as scholar of [Durham] College Oxford.
Date: Durham, 14 March 1455/6.
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f.76r-v   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Robert, bishop of Durham), reminding him that he had once said to the prior that he would have no disagreement between himself and the church of Durham; nevertheless lately the archdeacon of Northumberland is endeavouring persistently to trouble the church and would obstruct the liberties and freedoms thereof. In particular, he is resisting the induction into one vicarage, belonging to the prior and his fellow monks, as the evidence of the bishop's predecessors and his own writing under seal, which proves their possession in his time, state; their muniments declare that the last induction to the said vicarage [pertained to them], which the bearer hereof will show to the bishop; the prior beseeches him to give credence on his behalf to the bearer in this matter. The prior beseeches him, considering the right of the church, the old privilege, possession and custom in his archidiaconal jurisdiction, to send him a mandate to induct the vicar, newly presented by the chapter to him, so that if any offence or grievance shall occur therein, it might be between them and the party [of the vicar ?] and not the bishop, whom they will in no way offend or displease, saving the right and privileges of his church.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
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f.76v-77r   14 September [?1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the abbot of Rievaulx *], stating that he has examined his letters, containing an apostolic rescript, lately delivered to him by a certain monk of the monastery of St Mary's York; having understood these and thinking that in such a difficult and, to him, unaccustomed matter he cannot put [the abbot's] commission into effect for various reasonable causes, [he asks] him to be sparing of his grievous old age in this case. Being seventy years old, he is exhausted by great labour, daily suffers increasing great bodily frailty, as is clearly apparent, and is unable to walk without great trouble. His sight and especially hearing are failing, his intelligence is growing dim, and he is beset by many other troubles of weakness and old age. From the first foundation of the monastery the prior of Durham was second to the bishop of Durham in every dignity and honour of an abbot, under the name of prior, inside and outside the church of Durham. The dignity of the priory of Durham, from its first foundation, has a connection to the church of York in every honour, liberty, power and dignity, [which are] appropriate to a dean of York. The church of Durham has to have recourse to that church and be advised by them in all uncertain issues, because they are connected from of old. The prior should not be seen to do nor ought to attempt anything which could detract from the honour and quiet of the church of York, since, if he should do something in the matter under discussion which directly concerns the church of York, he would be judged to be a suspect and partial judge. Since the monastery of St Mary, York, whose cause this is, and the monastery of Durham are of the same order and make visitations of each other, he could be objected to as suspect and partisan if he proceeded [to take] cognizance of such a cause as judge. Therefore, once [the abbot] has given due consideration to all the aforementioned, he entreats him to hold him excused, just as the papal decree, “De Rescriptis. Si aliquando” excuses him, where it is enjoined, if ever the prior directs any [letters] to him which seem to provoke him, he should not be disturbed but, in taking into consideration the state of affairs why he has been written to, should either fulfil the prior's mandate or advance a reasonable cause in his letters why he cannot. Concerning these and other matters touching this affair, the prior has more fully declared his mind to his fellow monk, William Seton', B.Th., bearer of the presents, to whom [the abbot] should grant a hearing and place confidence in what he relates to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 14 September [1455 ?*]
* The addressee is identified as the abbot of Rievaulx in the document on f.80v below. On 5 May 1455, together with the bishop of Durham and the abbot of Jervaulx, he was commissioned as a papal judge-delegate to hear a case between St Mary's abbey York and the vicar of St Lawrence's York which involved the dean and chapter of York: Calendar of Papal Registers 1455-1464, p.196 and 389.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxxxii-cccxxxiii, identifying the recipient as the bishop of Durham.
Digitised version

f.77r-v   2 March [?1456]
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr John Laxe, the pope's secretary and the king's proctor in the Roman curia), stating that he has joyfully learned from his letters of his successful arrival at [Rome: “urbem almam”] and rejoiced in the honour he has amassed recently in the office of secretary to the present pope. He has today received the general papal letter of confirmation concerning his rights, liberties and possessions, along with his other letters; he thanks him for these, for all his other labours and for carrying out the prior's affairs. He marvels that John had not hitherto been informed that he had made full satisfaction to Reynaldo de Baroncellis, Florentine merchant, in London for the prior's bull concerning [eating meat at *] Septuagesima. In September the prior had redeemed the bull from the hands of the said merchant, had fully paid him and received from him a quittance, under his seal and name, which the prior has at hand to be shown. Around All Saints the prior sent John letters concerning these and the other matters on his mind, along with money for the petty expenses he previously paid for the expediting of the bull. He regrets that he should be troubled in the curia or elsewhere on the prior's behalf, if the prior is the cause or at fault. He is to indicate to the prior by the bearer of the presents what he afterwards learns in these matters.
Date: Durham, 2 March.
* See f.48r-v above.
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f.77v-78r   2 January [?1456]
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior and the chapter of D[urham), (superscription: to Robert, bishop of Durham), stating that it is hoped that the bishop, who is known to have regard and compassion for the misfortunes of all his subjects, will wish to remedy those of [the monks], his special sons; with great sorrow, they inform the bishop that the cathedral [central] tower (“campanile”) is so pounded and weakened in its stone work and wood by unaccustomed gusts of wind that there is great doubt whether it will last. They had its defects carefully examined by stone masons and joiners (“utriusque artis opificibus”) who asserted that in the stonework it was out of true on three sides, found that many cornerstones of the windows and other places had fallen down, that others were split down the middle and much timber had failed, and thought that a very great catastrophe was imminent unless a remedy was provided. Certain men advise pulling down the steeple ( “stilum”) of the tower, since it could not stand for long, others wished it to be repaired, which the prior and convent conclude is beyond their ability, without support from elsewhere. Uncertain what to do, they turn to the bishop, since they do not presume to undertake such a great labour without his advice, knowledge and consent. If there should be a sudden collapse, it would destroy the fabric of the choir and the shrine of their patron, since it principally threatens there. Whenever there is a serious storm, they are struck with anxiety and stand in fear of death. They therefore implore him to provide assistance to his church, to give his sound advice and help and to put in writing to them what he thinks should be done about this.
Under the common seal.
Date: Durham, in the chapter house, 2 January.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxxxiv-cccxxxv.
Digitised version

f.78r-v   19 April [?1456]
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: Mr John Marchall', residentiary of York Minster), expressing thanks for the many favours he has performed for him and the monastery over the years, and praying him to continue the same prompt effort in future and especially in the present business, which touches the prior's peace and the liberty of the church of Durham; as in the past, the prior has recourse to him in the difficult matters which have lately arisen concerning his monastery, beseeching him to grant a hearing to his fellow monk, William Seton, now coming to him with the presents, in whom he should place confidence in explaining [matters] on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 19 April.
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f.78v-79r   19 April [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], thanking him for his immense support and efforts on behalf of the prior and the rights and quiet of his church; his help and advice have hitherto not failed the prior; thus, since at present he has certain matters to be carried out which, unless a better remedy is found, in future will present considerable difficulties to the monastery, he entreats him, having heard what his fellow monk, William Seton, bearer of the presents, has related to him on the prior's behalf, to be ready with his favour and to put into effect what he had suggested to him. He is to send back in writing, by the said bearer, his advice on these matters.
Date: Durham, 19 April.
Digitised version

f.79r   4 May [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Ralph Percy, knight), stating that he has received his letters concerning the matter of Robert Erghowe, that he should be at this time, as Ralph is informed, a monk of Durham. The prior is informed by sufficient men learned in law that by his digression Robert is not a monk of Durham; if he were, he would not go wandering about as he does, but be received into the monastery, as its laws will. Touching John Erghowe and his brother, Robert, as for any gold, jewellery and evidence delivered to the monastery and the chancery for keeping, as the prior wrote to Ralph's brother, lord Egremont, neither Robert Westmerlande [late monk of Durham and chancellor] nor any of the monks received any jewels or money, nor was any delivered to them. Insofar as he heard no more after he wrote to him about this matter, the prior supposes that lord Egremont was content with this response. As for the indenture he [John or possibly Robert] has forged, the prior supposes it shall be found by law and conscience not to be of any force in that regard. In this matter and all others concerning the rights [of the monastery], the prior beseeches him to support their rights, as his forebears have done. When Ralph's brother, the lord of Northumberland, and Robert Rodes come to cuntree, Robert will inform Ralph, so that he shall know the truth in this matter and fully excuse the prior.
Date: Durham, 4 May.
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f.79v   19 May [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], to reverendissimus pater stating that he has been encouraged by his past favours and assistance, with which he has helped him from his youth, to turn to him for support in difficult matters; thus, to expedite a matter at present much on the prior's mind, he has sent the bearer of the presents, and begs him to hear him favourably and place confidence in what he will relate to him.
Date: Durham, 19 May.
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f.79v-80r   20 May [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Robert Rodes), thanking him for his labours for the prior and especially for the letter he has recently sent him; he asks him to provide him with six copes of blue velvet, which he has bought, and to powder them with flowers of gold, in the manner of the sample sent to the prior; he is also to provide orphreys with imagery for the said copes, at a price of 8 marks each, just as he has written to the prior. He should remember that there should not be much black in the said orphreys. He further asks him to provide six other copes of the same blue velvet and to powder them with smaller and fewer flowers of gold, at the price of 6d (or 7d if necessary) for such a flower. He should provide orphreys for these copes, of cloth of gold, a sample of which he sent to the prior, who is returning it with the bearer hereof. Concerning the sum of money of dan John Gatesheved' [monk of Durham], over and above the money of dan Thomas Ayre [monk of Durham], remaining with Mr Robert Rokke, it is £103 6s 8d. The sum of Thomas Ayre remaining with the said Robert is £40. The prior does not propose at this time to have any more copes than the ones above.
(Postscript:) He asks to have the same copes at Durham before St Cuthbert next [4 September]. From the remainder of £103 6s 8d, after payment in full of the above costs, he is to pay five marks to the said Robert, as the prior writes to him in a separate bill. With what remains he is to provide the prior and his fellow monks with such cloth and orphreys for copes as he thinks most useful, which can be of the same sort, even if ( “thof”) it exceeds £20, for which he shall receive payment.
Date: Durham, 20 May.
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f.80r-v   23 May 1456
Memorandum that a letter for transferring John Dorwarde [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale was issued in the common form.
Date: 23 May 1456.
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f.80v   [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham] [to the abbot of St Mary's York ?*], stating that he understood from his letters, delivered by Thomas Sayles, that he wished the prior would take on the charge of a certain commission and determine what justice shall have decreed in a certain cause between the addressee and the vicar of St Lawrence's York. The prior would willingly accede to his wishes in these matters which have regard for the benefit of the addressee's monastery or can promote its honour, without loss of honour and status of the prior's own monastery. Nevertheless, he entreats him not to take it amiss that he does not dare to fulfil his present wish; rather he should hold the prior excused in this regard, having considered the following reasons, namely, being seventy years old, the prior is exhausted by great labour, etc., as in the letter sent to the abbot of Rievaulx on the fifth folio preceding [f.76v-77r] in the present register.
* See note to document on f.76v-77r above.
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f.80v-81r   17 June [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], stating that, among his other praiseworthy works for the benefit and honour of the monastery [of Durham], this especially deserves to be extolled, that he was pursuing and fortifying its liberties and rights in the church of Hemingbrough against the provost thereof, who was strongly opposing the prior's jurisdiction. For this and other things, the prior thanks him. In order to bring to a proper conclusion what he has favourably begun, he should appoint a day to audit the account of the provost, according to the ordinance of the aforesaid church, forewarning the provost to obey the prior's commissaries on that day. By some intermediate he should before then indicate to the prior the day which he has decided to appoint, so that the prior can send to him some monk of Durham and a lay auditor to carry out the said business, who can be present with him and Mr William Langton' at the provost's accounting, to demand, exact and execute in every respect what the ordinance of the church demands.
Date: Durham, 17 June.
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f.81r   [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the abbot of Whitby], stating that he had been recently reflecting how much mutual affection and brotherly bond had existed between them in his youth and now even greater fatherly affection has arisen; since, lest in these matters, which his letter related to the prior, there be injury to or pointless effort for [the abbot] or his monastery, on account of the long passage of time and of power for its due execution not having been requested, according to what he learned from learned men, the prior does not think or judge it opportune for the abbot of Shap to be cited, as in any way conducive to their quiet and honour. Nonetheless, the prior has by his letters *, the tenor of which he sends enclosed in the presents, taken care to exhort the said abbot to observe inviolably the composition between them and the abbot of Shap for the payment of tithes to them and to make an equitable settlement ( “iudicatam”) without judicial formality. The prior is prepared to add to what tends to [the abbot of Whitby's] advantage or the public honesty of their order and to please [the abbot of Whitby] to the best of his ability.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
* See the next entry.
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f.81r-v   [?1456]
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to the abbot of Shap, of Carlisle diocese and the county of Westmorland), stating that, from the tenor of certain letters recently exhibited to him by the abbot of Whitby, he understood that a certain agreement [was] made and adequately confirmed between the religious houses of Whitby and Shap, as is evident from the tenor of the said composition, concerning the payment of certain tithes to be made to the house of Whitby. The prior has confirmed that each party had willingly subjected himself to the prior and his ecclesiastical jurisdiction in this regard. Neverthless, he has heard a complaint from the aforesaid abbot, that the abbot of Shap on his part is not observing the form of the indented composition, to the great prejudice of the other party. Not wishing to pursue justice rigorously but instead to offer remedies of gentleness and charity to both parties, he requires and requests him without further delay to observe the said composition inviolably and to pay his tithes and other customary dues. Considering that bitterness and incitements to harm are presently increasing against religious persons by laymen, the prior does not reckon it necessary or useful for disagreements to arise between religious, since these are evil times and many persons do not freely desist from inflicting many inconveniences and irreparable damage on the church. He prays him to undertake this at the prior's exhortation to do justice for the benefit of both monasteries.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.81v-82r   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham, his chaplain), (superscription: to [the earl] of Northumberland), informing him that the prior has made a promise to Thomas Elwike, by his son John, of the corn tithes of Charlton. He cannot honourably change this promise unless Thomas will relinquish his title, granted to him by the prior before the lord of Northumberland. The prior will then devote himself to pleasing the lord, in letting the tithe of Charlton to Thomas Ildyrton for one year, under certain reasonable conditions and upon sufficient surety of payment. Concerning the tithe of Orde, he has granted it to other men, which he may not set aside without great injury to the monastery for various reasons, which he trusts his lordship would not wish.
Date: “etc.”
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f.82r   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], whereas Edmund Portyngton' wished to examine the court rolls of the prior's lordship of Hemingbrough, both for the advancement and good of the lordship and liberty in that area, and for the great advantage and right of his tenants, he prays him to show the rolls and other evidence to him and to conceal nothing from him which may pertain to his right and the prior's welfare.
Date: “etc.”
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f.82r-v   27 June [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), [to the widow of John of Portington], informing her that whereas her late husband, the prior's friend, John of Portington, had at farm the prior's church of Eastrington by an indenture, the farm of the entire year, for the terms of Candlemas (2 February] and the Invention of the Cross [3 May] last past, is now owed to the prior for the tithes of the said church, occupied by her husband and, after his death, by her, as the quittance for it plainly declares. He prays her to make payment to him for the goods owed by her and her husband, without disturbance or suit of the law, as he places trust in her to avoid any displeasure in this matter, should the prior be compelled to sue for his goods by process of law, considering the good will the prior and his fellow monks have had for the welfare and advancement of Mr Thomas, her son, and others connected to her. The prior will be prepared to do this if she shows him justice and kindness regarding the aforementioned. She is to give credence to the bearer hereof in the above matters.
Date: Durham, 27 June.
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f.82v-83r   27 June [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the brother of John of Portington], whereas his late brother, John of Portington, had the church of Eastrington at farm for a term of years from the monastery of Durham, under a writing sealed by both parties, the prior informs him that the entire farm of one year, for the terms of Candlemas [2 February] and the Invention of the Cross [3 May], is owed to the prior for the tithes of the church occupied by him and, after his death by his wife, as all [of] the prior's quittance in this matter plainly declares. The prior prays him to endeavour to pay him the said farm, so that the prior has reason to thank him and will not be constrained to sue for his goods by other stringent means and process of law. The prior would be sorry to do so if he could have his right by easy means. He should obtain further details of the aforementioned from the prior's servant, the bearer hereof, and have full trust in what he shall show to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 27 June.
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f.83r-v   6 November [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], making known to him how carefully and wisely Mr John Marchall' has for many years exercised the prior's jurisdiction within York diocese, preserving it inviolable and enlarging it more than his predecessors [had done]. Now, however, unable to ride without difficulty because of old age and bodily infirmity, he desired to be discharged from further care of the said jurisdiction, which the prior has with sadness granted. Bearing in mind his foresight and the benevolence he has towards the prior, he entreats the addressee to undertake the keeping of this jurisdiction and to set in order those matters incumbent on the same office. He sends with the presents the seal of the said officiality, along with a sealed commission for him, entreating him to require the muniments and judicial acts which are in the hands of Mr John Marchall' and Mr Thomas Melburne be kept safely until the prior arranges for them to be sent to him. The aforesaid Thomas made earnest entreaty to the prior that he might exercise the office of registrar now under the addressee, as he did previously under John Marchall', which the prior was unwilling to grant without the addressee having been consulted. He grants him liberty to select a clerk and registrar of acts whom he judges to be better and more ( “magis”) suitable. He informs him that the bishop of Durham, on the advice of Mr Robert Mason, doctor, recently sent to the prior a mandate to induct William Yonghusebande as vicar of Ellingham in his jurisdiction, which contains this clause “with the archdeacon of Northumberland protesting expressly for the right of induction”, contrary to the form hitherto used in the register. The prior sends to him a true copy of this for examination, and a copy of the bishop's other mandate, whose form the bishop's predecessors, Thomas Langley, Walter Skyrlawe, Thomas Hatfeld' and others, observed uninterruptedly. The prior entreats him in this matter to impart his sound and prudent advice and to write back what support of law would be useful to defend his jurisdiction. He should know that the prior had appealed to the apostolic see concerning the aforementioned, and by appeal had submitted himself by way of tuition to the protection of the court of York. If necessary, he will not spare any expense to obtain a favourable conclusion to this cause. He is to advise the prior as quickly as possible as to what he determines should be done in this regard.
Date: Durham, 6 November.
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f.83v-84r   [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the son of John Askewe], stating that, although the prior was not fully acquainted with him, the signs of his goodness and his renowned merits, which were plainly related to him by his fellow monk, William Seton', who recently had been honourably summoned with him, move him to assent to the requests of his petition, especially those touching the peace and comfort of departed souls, so that by the intercession of the church they are mercifully freed from the torments of purgatory. Therefore, in accordance with his request, the prior absolves the soul of his father, the prior's dear friend, John Askewe, and bestows on him in full chapter the benefit of absolution for any injuries and offences committed against the prior and his monastery. He willingly accepts and requires him to carry out the form of the agreement which his said fellow monk agreed with him for the prior's lands in the vill of Thirsk.
Date: “etc.”
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxxxv.
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f.84r   13 June [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], reminding him of the prior's last letter to him to carry out his will, as the said letters relate; he asks him to provide him with two hogsheads of the best malmsey he can buy in London, and to buy it as if for himself, and arrange to send it, in his own name and as his own goods, to his own place in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The prior shall satisfy him of the money he pays for this. He beseeches Jesus to preserve him from all adversity and soon bring him home to this cuntre.
Date: Durham, 13 June.
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f.84r   15 June [?1456]
Mandate [by William, prior of Durham], to his “beloved fellow monk”, stating that for various reasonable causes, the benefit of the monastery of Durham, and the honour and governance of the addressee's position (“status vestri regimen et honorem”), the prior has resolved that he should be recalled to the monastery. He therefore commands him, having seen this letter and put aside any excuse, to direct his steps to him, so that he may have discussion in person with the prior and his fellow monks about certain [matters]. The prior wills that his property and clothes should remain where they presently are, until he has a further mandate from him.
Date: Durham, 15 June.
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f.84r-v   [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], informing him that he has received his letters and those of the archbishop of York, and wishes to satisfy the addressee's desires, in so far as he can, as declared in his letters dispatched to the archbishop by the bearer of the presents, Mr Thomas Melburne, concerning the aforementioned *; he has taken care to send a true copy of these letters to the addressee with the presents, so that, if the prior conceived anything in them which tends to his benefit and honour, he might agree to the parts denoted and examine all the contents before the letters are exhibited to the archbishop, if that seems opportune to him, and thus at last after examination they might be presented to the archbishop in order that they might take effect, which the prior wishes will be pleasing to him.
Date: “etc.”
* See next entry below.
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f.84v-85r   2 May [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by William, prior of Durham), (superscription: to William, archbishop of York), beseeching God to reward him for his support and favour to the church of Durham, and especially for his help in the difficult matter of Hemingbrough; and informing him that he has received his letters, wherein he and his fellow monks will apply themselves to pleasing him to the best of their ability. His fellow monks beseech him that the archbishop's clerk and their singular master and continual supporter, Mr John Marchall', might be presented to the church of Brantingham, and Mr John Sendale to the church of Wheldrake [E.R. Yorks], if it should please John Marchall, and also the archbishop's servant, Mr Thomas Melburne, to the church of Bedom', asking him to consider that by this measure his clerks and servants shall be increased in worthiness and advanced in benefices. He and his fellow monks therefore send to him one presentation without a name, so that he may do therein as pleases him, requesting him to confirm their privileges and liberties within his diocese.
Date: Durham, 2 May.
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f.85r   31 August [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], expressing his thanks for his care and untiring efforts with regards to preserving the prior's rights and liberties, especially for reserving for him, as he ought, the vacancy of the prebend of Thorpe in the church of Howden. Nevertheless, since Mr John Norton', presented by the prior to the said prebend, has informed him that the buildings there are demolished and in ruins, he has therefore entreated the prior to bestow by way of help the corn tithes for the period of the vacancy. Therefore, wishing for certain reasons to bestow his friendship on John Norton, he entreats the addressee to allow the said corn tithes, which he reserved for the prior's uses, to be delivered to the officials whom John Norton sends, so that he might do what seems expedient to him. The prior grants these [tithes] as a favour only, without John Norton or any other in future in a similar case acquiring any new title which could prejudice the prior's rights or liberties. In the other matters concerning the keeping of his jurisdiction, the prior does not doubt he will exert himself.
Date: Durham, 31 August.
Digitised version

f.85r-v   31 August 1456
Collation by William, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spiritualty of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, York diocese, to John Amandson', B.A., in the customary manner, of the prior's reading (“lectuales”) and grammar schools in Howden, since, from the report of trustworthy persons, he considers him suitable to instruct youths in reading and grammar. The presents are to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 31 August 1456.
Printed: Early Yorkshire Schools II, ed A.F. Leach (Yorkshire Archaeological Society Record Series xxxiii, 1903), p.87.
Digitised version

f.85v-86r   [9 September ?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], thanking him for his care and effort towards the causes of the church of Durham, and especially its privileges and liberties. Mr Thomas Candell', the provost of Hemingbrough, recently came to the monastery of Durham, and related to him that he has been cited to appear before the court ( “audientia”) of the archbishop of York to make response judicially to him, as he asserts, about certain articles touching the salvation of his soul. Fearing that he is to be troubled, he argued that he be summoned to judgement in the court of the liberty of St Cuthbert, not elsewhere, and there corrected or exonerated with regard to any causes whatever, even criminal, provided that criminal causes are brought for the purpose of correction and salvation and not of deprivation from office. Uncertain what would be better for him, he came to the prior for advice and assistance. The prior therefore entreats the addressee to give his advice in this matter before the archbishop and to endeavour that nothing, as a result of the archbishop's decree or mandate, sets a precedent ( “transeat in rem iudicatam”) which might seem to be in opposition to or infringe the prior's jurisdiction or liberty or the tenor of the agreement entered into in this regard. The prior is given to understand that the goods and income of the church of Hemingbrough, according to the terms of its ordinance, are presently insufficient to support its customary charges. At the request of the provost to remedy this, the prior wishes to provide for the church's benefit. He entreats him, along with Mr William Langton', to devise some reform and to send that confidentially to the prior and his fellow monks, so that the prior can consult with his council and afterwards present to the archbishop what seems fit to him and the addressee. He reckons that it would be advantageous at present to reduce the portions of the provost and individual prebendaries so that the church may enjoy continued prosperity in future.
Date: Durham, the day after the Nativity of Mary.
Draft: DCD Loc.XXI:47.
Digitised version

f.86r   1 December [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to John Nevile, knight), stating that, as he is informed, the provost of his collegiate church of Hemingbrough, Mr Thomas Candell', has recently procured a letter of John Nevile, directed to Mr John Marchall', by which, with other secular support, the provost would not admit the prior's commissary to execute the jurisdiction and liberties of the monastery of Durham in that church; rather, with much talk and many people assembled there, he resisted and repelled him to the great harm of their rights and liberties. The prior therefore beseeches him to support and augment these rights and liberties in those parts and all others, as his father and ancestors have done.
Date: Durham, 1 December.
Digitised version

f.86v   [10 May ?1455]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], thanking him for his efforts in preserving his jurisdiction and the rights of the monastery of Durham in Yorkshire, and informing him that the provost of Hemingbrough recently came to Durham, bringing a letter from Sir John Nevile, asking him to be favourable to the provost. Before the prior and his fellow monks, the provost openly confessed the offence committed against the addressee and the prior's jurisdiction at Hemingbrough, and submitted himself to the prior and sought forgiveness. On the advice of Mr John Norton', the prior pardoned him and accepted his submission upon certain conditions to be observed before the addressee in the church of Hemingbrough. The prior therefore asks him to appoint a chapter at Hemingbrough when he may be present, with all the ministers of the church and certain parishioners summoned and assembled before him at that time. He is to summon the provost before him, declaring all the proceedings in this matter to the people, and asking the provost to declare openly the prior's charge in this regard. This done, he is to require a notary to perform his office hereupon and [to draw up an instrument] of the proceeding held before in this cause. He asks him to show his favour in those matters which might concern the provost's rest and ease, beseeching him to remember the prior's privilege which is to be confirmed of his lord [? the archbishop of York] and not to spare the fees and charges belonging to the officers for such causes, with all the aforementioned having been observed. He requests him to give credence in this and other matters to Mr John Berehalgh', bearer hereof.
Date: Durham, 10 May.
Digitised version

f.86v-87r   25 September 1455
Appointment by William, prior of Durham, of John Nevile, esquire, as steward of the vills of Hemingbrough, Brackenholme, Woodhall, Hunsley and Drewton with their appurtenances, provided that he perform the said office and those [duties] incumbent on it for the benefit and honour of the prior and church of Durham. For his labour, duly performed as the said office requires, he is to receive similar fees and emoluments as Ralph Babthropp', esquire, who lately held the office. The prior commands all his officials and tenants there whom this concerns to obey the said Ralph as his steward. The presents are to last at the pleasure of the prior and his successors.
Date: Durham, 25 September 1455.
Digitised version

f.87r-v   25 September [?1455]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to John Nevile, esquire), whereas Ralph Babthropp', esquire, steward of the prior's lordship of Hemingbrough and its appurtenances, has died, the prior and his fellow monks have consented to put him in the said office, to receive a fee and recompense as the said Ralph and his father, Sir Robert, did previously. The prior wishes him to attend to his rights and liberties, and all else belonging to him in that office. He especially requests him not to incur greater expense because of the number of men with him, and for coming to his courts, but to be easy therein as others before him, since all the revenues of the lordship belong only to his fellow monks and their necessities in the chamberlain's office, which cannot bear any substantial charge beyond what is necessary in that regard.
Date: Durham, 25 September.
Printed in: Thomas Burton, The history and antiquities of the parish of Hemingbrough in the county of York, ed. J. Raine (York 1888) p.391.
Digitised version

f.87v   22 October [?1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to Mr John Laxe], stating that he has received his letters intact, along with the enclosed schedule. He thanks him for these and for his other efforts, especially for expediting the bull about the matter of [eating meat at *] Septuagesima. Since the prior was not aware when [John Laxe] briefly stayed with him, but learned from others after his departure that he had paid up to 14 ducats [? c. £2 10s.] in particular expenses to expedite the said bull, in addition to a greater sum before, the prior so far has not made satisfaction to him for this money, as he ought. Therefore he has sent to Mr Robert Rokke, vicar of St Lawrence's London, 7 nobles [£2 6s. 8d.] to be sent to John at his discretion. The prior asks him in future to make clearer any expenses which he pays out in this matter, and he will take care to satisfy him without delay.
Date: Durham, 22 October.
* See f.48r-v above.
A copy of the bull, dated 20 April 1455, is printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxxix-cccxxxi.]
Digitised version

f. 87v-88r   [?1455]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to Richard Barton, prior of Stamford ?*], informing him that through the perseverance of the prior's friends in the Roman curia, especially Mr John Laxe, his proctor, he has recently obtained a bull from the present pope, granting perpetual indulgence and licence to his monastery and all its members to eat meat in Septuagesima and on Christmas Eve, when it falls on a Sunday. It will be fitting for the prior to redeem this bull speedily, with the sum of £40 (less one noble) to be paid to a Lombard merchant in London. He requires him freely to help with this payment, at least 20s on his behalf and 13s 4d on behalf of his fellow monk, Th[omas] Lewyn', from their oblations, as the poorer priors and masters of cells and fellow monks do, or some more notable amount, in keeping with the dignity of his responsibility and the eminence of his person, to provide relief for the junior fellow monks. He wills him to pay this sum to William Byrde, merchant of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, bearer of the presents, by indented bills. He should take care not to disregard this.
* The letter is clearly to the head of one of the smaller cells. Thomas Lewyn was sent to Stamford in 1450, see f.39v above, and Richard Barton was prior there 1440-1462.
Digitised version

f.88r-v   [?1455]
Language:   English
Letter [by ?], [to ?], informing him that it is agreed between his father, the prior, and William Byrde, merchant of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, bearer hereof, that the said William shall satisfy the addressee for the full payment of the sum of £39 13s 4d, for which sum, he trusts, the addressee has satisfied the merchant at London for the bull lately granted him at Rome *. He entreats him, if William keeps his promise of full payment to him, to deliver the bull to him on the writer's behalf, with indented bills first made and sealed between the addressee and William, for such a great sum received by him from William in the prior's name. The last time he wrote to him, he supposed that Robert Rodes would speedily come to London but does not know whether he now will or not. This is the reason why he makes William his agent in this matter. He sends to him by William 45s in full payment of all small sums, after the tenor of the last letter the addressee sent to him, who is to certify him again in writing by the bearer hereof as to all the aforementioned.
* See note to entry on f.87v above.
Digitised version

f.88v   14 March 1456
Memorandum that one letter was issued in the common form for receiving Thomas Grene of Allertonshire as scholar of Durham College Oxford.
Date: 14 March 1455/6.
Digitised version

f.88v   16 March [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr Robert Rokke, vicar of St Lawrence, London), thanking him for his letter, recently sent to him, and for his efforts on behalf of the prior and his fellow monks. Touching the cloths of gold for four copes, as he wrote to the prior, his fellow monks think the price of the best is very great. Nevertheless, he and his fellow monks ask him to provide them with cloths at prices most closely approximating the cloths and prices they had before, if he can. If he has made any agreement or purchase with any merchants of the said cloths in London, the prior wishes him to fulfil that agreement. He asks him to postpone buying all sorts of cloths until Robert Rodes comes to London, who proposes to be with him there at Easter. He will give him fuller information about the prior's will in this matter than he writes to him at present.
Date: Durham, 16 March.
Digitised version

f.88v-89r   2 January [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr Robert Rokke, vicar of St Lawrence, London), thanking him for his favour, efforts and affection for the prior and his fellow monks, especially the late John Gatesheved. The prior and his fellow monks thank him for expediting their bull, which he lately sent to them by Robert Rodes, with a quittance from the Lombard for the said bull. As for the sum of money delivered to him by various persons in the said John's name, as the indenture he recently sent to the prior by Robert Rodes attests, he asks him, as he and his fellow monks have full confidence in him according to the said John's intent, to spend it on cloths of gold, orphreys and other ornaments. The prior knew that John did not desire the said sum to be returned by Robert Rokke but to be spent in London at his discretion, as he has often done before.
Date: Durham, 2 January.
Digitised version

f.89r   1 April [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the head of one of Durham's cells ?], informing him that the prior believes his presence will be opportune at the next annual chapter, to be held in the chapter house, for reforming the state of the monastery more readily and expounding at greater length other difficult and pressing matters, he therefore requests him, giving due consideration to what the prior has in mind for the beneficial administration of the monastery, to come in person to the next chapter, to treat with and offer advice and assistance to the prior and his fellow monks concerning the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 1 April.
Digitised version

f.89r-v   [?1456]
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], informing him with sorrow what he has heard about him, that, in the cell where he is presently staying, he is troublesome to his fellow monks and the seculars there by insolent words and arrogant deeds, is inclined to quarrels, and does not advance their honour, as befitting a monastic order, to his manifest harm. Lest this be an example to others to transgress, the prior exhorts and commands him to take better care in future, to conduct himself more moderately and appropriately, to abstain from all abuse and disputes, and to repent of any transgressions which detract from the peace and honour of those living with him. The prior had commanded the prior of the said cell to inform him without delay if he finds he does not obey the prior's exhortation and command, so that he can inflict a fitting punishment on him.
Digitised version

f.89v-90r   31 August [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to the steward of Hemingbrough], whereas he is informed that various persons in the lordship of Hemingbrough are proposing in the court of the lordship, where the addressee is steward, to fine for various lands for the term of life; the prior understands from his learned counsel that this is not advantageous for many reasons. The prior prays him that no one fine before him or his understeward in the said court for more than three or six years at most for any lands in the lordship. He is to charge his understeward and his bailiff that no one may fine before them in his absence; the prior informs him that if anyone claims hereafter that they have fined for any lands there from the present date for terms longer than three or six years, as rehearsed above, the prior will disallow them. He is to declare the prior's will openly in full court to his tenants in the lordship. The prior also informs him that he has had discussion about the prior's fishing in the Ouse and Derwent, with Sir James Pykeryng, [who] said that he will not knowingly do anything against the right of the monastery of Durham, desiring the prior to show his right and evidence by one learned man, (if he will) William Moston', who is of his fee and livery, and Sir James shall similarly take one learned man for his part. The prior requests him to send him his advice and intent and to labour effectually herein.
Date: Durham, 31 August.
Digitised version

f.90r-v   23 June [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Alex[ander] Home, knight), informing him that he has recently received his letter and writing, from which he knows perfectly his affection for the welfare and advancement of the monastery of Durham and himself; he thanks him for this and for his other good efforts. He asks him to endeavour, as he has written to the prior, that his fellow monks be admitted to his place of Coldingham, to be perpetual bedesmen of the king of Scotland, of him and his ancestors, and especially to pray for the king's progenitors, who were the founders and benefactors of Coldingham. Considering that by the absence of his fellow monks there, the prayers which should be offered to God for the remission of punishment (“payn”) are diminished, the prior asks him, having considered all the aforementioned, to labour diligently to accomplish his desire in this regard.
Date: Durham, 23 June.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.181-182.
Digitised version

f. 90v-91r   23 June [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by W[illiam], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Ralph Gray, knight), stating that the prior asks him, as he has supported him and his fellow monks previously, to favour and help especially now his fellow monks, the prior of Holy Island and the master of Farne Island, that they may withstand the malicious intent of their enemies against them at any time in the future. Whereas he is informed that the master of Farne Island, W[illiam] Hesilden' [monk of Durham], was recently indicted in Northumberland, he asks that with his support the present master not be troubled on that account and that his horse and other goods of the house of Farne, which have been taken away and seized by the officers of the sheriff and which belong only to the house of Farne and not to the said William, be restored again to the present master. He beseeches him to give his support to this and all other matters touching the right of the monastery of Durham, as his ancestors and especially his late father have previously done, especially to the prior when he stayed in that area.
Date: Durham, 23 June.
Digitised version

f.91r   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by [William], prior of Durham), (superscription: to Richard, earl of Salisbury), thanking him for the favour he has shown the church of Durham and the prior in particular, and for the fat hart he has recently sent to him and his fellow monks and all others previously, and beseeching him to give audience and credence to his fellow monk, William Seton', bearer hereof, in certain matters which he shall relate to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, “etc”
Digitised version

f.91r-v   [?1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to ?], whereas certain bulls have come to London from the pope concerning the privilege of the church of Durham, for which he must pay £24 6s 8d to a Lombard in London, he sends this amount to the addressee with the bearer hereof. He asks him to take this money with him to London, once there to send for a priest at St Olave's church called William Laxe and deliver this sum to him in the prior's name, since William Laxe has promised to send the said bulls home to Durham to the prior.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.91v-92r   15 July [1456]
Language:   English
Letter [by William, prior of Durham], [to Alexander Home, knight], thanking him for the favour and support shown to him and his place of Coldingham, whereas Thomas Nessbitt, [monk of Durham and] prior of Coldingham, is of great age and feeble from sickness and many other diseases, such that he cannot fully govern the said place as necessary, and for these reasons desires to be discharged, the prior and his fellow monks have granted his request to come to Durham. With the assent of his fellow monks, the prior has presented his fellow monk and the addressee's bedesman, John Pencher, to the said priory. They ask him to bestow his favour and support on John, so that with his advice and help he may sooner accomplish the matters he has to do in this regard. The prior reminds him of his last letter sent to him, written at Durham on 23 June [see f.90r-v], where he asked him to endeavour that his fellow monks be admitted to Coldingham, as has been customary, to dwell there and be bedesmen to the king of Scots and for the souls of the founders and benefactors of the place. The prior asks him to prove himself a steadfast friend to him and his place, as he has full confidence in him.
Date: Durham, 15 July [1456].
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.182-183.
Digitised version

f.92r   1 February 1458
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one for sending Richard Blakewell' [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale, and the other for returning William Kellowe [monk of Durham] from there to the monastery.
Date: 1 February 1457/8.
Digitised version

f.92r   12 March 1458
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one [for sending] Robert West [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Wearmouth and the other [for sending] Thomas Wrenne [monk of Durham] from the monastery to the cell of Coldingham in Scotland.
Date: 12 March 1457/8.
Digitised version

f.92r   1457
Memorandum that a letter was issued under the prior's long seal appointing Thomas Warde [monk of Durham] as master or keeper of the cell of Jarrow, according to the form of the similar appointment for Mr John Mody to the said cell, previously written in this register on the second folio from the beginning [f.2r].
Date: (blank) 1457.
Digitised version

f.92r   1457
Memorandum that Henry Rakett [monk of Durham] was appointed as prior of Holy Island, according to the form of the appointment of Thomas Warde to the said priory, previously written in the present register on the twenty-ninth folio from the beginning [f. 29v-30r].
Date: (blank) 1457.
Digitised version

f.92r   1458
Memorandum that Richard Shirburne [monk of Durham] was appointed master or keeper of the cell of Farne Island by the prior's letters patent, according to the form of the appointment of John Bradbery to the said cell, previously written in this register on the twenty-first folio from the beginning [f.21v].
Date: (blank) 1458.
Digitised version

f.92r   1458
Memorandum that a certain appointment was issued for John Bradbery [monk of Durham] as master of Wearmouth, according to the form of the similar appointment of Thomas Warde to the cell of Jarrow in all respects, which is previously written in this register [i.e., the third document preceding].
Date: (blank) 1458.
Digitised version

f.92v   13 April [1458]
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the bishop of Durham), stating that, at God's contrivance he was admitted as their pastor and bishop, for which he gives thanks to the Lord, hoping that such a celebrated bishop will firmly support justice, strenuously protect the church, and be a most vigilant shepherd of his flock. He beseeches him to consider the prior and his fellow monks, the ministers of his church and diligent bedesmen, favourably recommended to him; and to be merciful to them over their election last held, considering how they had been misled by frequent deception, and how they had been prevented from obtaining their desired purpose by many severe threats. They had joyfully received the report about his person which asserted that they were about to have as bishop a man of such great probity. Joyous with hope, they seemed to be at rest in the peace desired, but, with a sudden and unexpected storm having arisen, they began to be tossed about, abandoning desired things, [and] were carried off and and moved not by hatred or contempt but, with the storms assailing and daily growing stronger, by deceit and fear, as the bearer of the presents knew to reveal to him more clearly, in whom he may see fit to have confidence. He offers these matters for his examination, whom he, seeking the bishop's protection, recognises as their judge and patron.
Date: Durham, 13 April.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxliv.
Digitised version

f.92v   16 December 1458
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one for sending (margin: John) Royse [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to Finchale, and the other for sending Robert Byllyngham [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Jarrow.
Date: 16 December 1458.
Digitised version

f.93r   4 April 1458
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one for removing Robert Weste [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to Finchale and the other for removing Richard Byllyngham [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to Wearmouth.
Date: 4 April 1458.
Digitised version

f.93r   1458
Memorandum that the appointment of John Midylham, monk of Durham, lately terrar and hostiller there, as prior of the cell of Holy Island was made by the letters patent of John Burnby, prior of Durham, according to the form of the appointment of Thomas Warde to the said priory, previously written in the present register on the twenty-ninth folio from the beginning [f.29v-30r].
Date: (blank) 1458.
Digitised version

f.93r   14 May 1458
Memorandum that one letter was issued for appointing William Kellow [monk of Durham] as subprior of the cell of Finchale, according to the form of the letter for George Syther', last subprior there, which is previously written in the present register on the twenty-fourth folio from the beginning [f.24v].
Date: 14 May 1458.
Digitised version

f.93r
Opening address of a letter (first eight words only).
Digitised version

f.93r   [20 November] 1460
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to the abbot and convent of Newminster near Morpeth, for 13s 4d, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Stannington and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, St Edmund king 1460.
Digitised version

f.93r   29 October 1460
Memorandum that two letters were issued, one for sending William Coveringham [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Lytham and the other for removing William Esby [monk of Durham] from the cell of Lytham to the monastery.
Date: Durham, 29 October 1460.
Digitised version

f.93v   5 November [?1460]
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe (referred to in body of letter as “vestre reverencie doctorali”), more plainly informing him by the presents that a certain Robert Staynton', priest, pretended chaplain of the chapel of Hylton, Durham diocese, maliciously appealed directly to the apostolic see and for tuition to the court of York in a certain cause judicially moved and pending between himself and the prior before the official of the consistory court of Durham, as yet undecided, concerning the withdrawal of the tithes of the church of Monkwearmouth, appropriated to the prior. He has embarked on a journey to the said see and, as the prior is given to understand, is to pursue his direct appeal there. The prior informs him that he is entreated, after fuller information is to be given to him by the letters of Mr John Lilford, LL.D., to give assistance to defending the right of the prior and of his said church of Monkwearmouth. To this end he resolved that a copy of the ancient agreement, enclosed in the presents, should be sent to him.
Date: Durham, 5 November.
Digitised version

f.93v   7 November [?1460]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Baynes), informing him that complaint has recently been made to the prior in the name of Richard Ellison', Robert Dautry and John Watkynson', vicars of the church of Hemingbrough, that Mr Thomas Portyngton', provost thereof and John Baynes' spiritual master, in contravention of his previous promise, is withholding the salaries owed to them not only in his predecessor's time, of which he has taken full charge, but also in his own time, to their great injury. To avoid other incidents which may arise, the prior therefore requires him to do what he can with respect to Thomas Portyngton' so that the said poor vicars are entirely paid everything now owing to them in accordance with his promise and the charge he has taken upon himself, so that the prior hears no further complaint. Lest he hold the prior utterly excused thereof, the prior through the default of Thomas Portyngton and John Baynes [?will] provide them with a sufficient remedy such as he thinks most appropriate in law and conscience.
Date: Durham, 7 November.
Digitised version

f.93v-94r   13 November [?1460]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to John Butiler, knight), whereas Will[iam] Syngilton' has recently written to him and arranged a ragman to be sent from certain gentlemen of the area, accusing the prior of Lytham of various great faults, and that he has caused a great number of other men to be sworn before him for the accusation of his fellow monk, John, as appears in various articles sent to the prior of Durham, he understands this proceeds only from great malice in order to have them discharged, to the blemishing of his [William's] conscience and honour, since afterwards, as he has had rule there under John Butler previously, it was his part to support them in right and to resist the malice of all others who would harm them. The prior prays him, having considered this matter, to provide a remedy and to silence him. He is to make enquiry into their behaviour and certify the prior in writing again as to what he finds, so that by the good advice of his counsel he may provide for a remedy and make reformation, if necessary.
Date: Durham, 13 November.
Digitised version

f.94r   1 December [?1460]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to William, archbishop of York), thanking him for his favour shown to the monastery and especially for the matter which his fellow monk, the warden of [Durham] College Oxford has moved to him on the prior's behalf. As for the plea which Richard Sutton' has against the prior, in which matter, as he [the warden ?] has written to the prior, he had the archbishop's beneficial advice and support, the prior and his fellow monks beseech him to help them, to take this to himself and bring it to such a conclusion as he thinks best for the welfare of the monastery. They are resolved to abide by his rule and decision and to bear such costs as the archbishop will determine.
Date: Durham, 1 December.
Digitised version

f.94r-v   1 December [?1460]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: Richard Willoghby, esquire), whereas he is informed that the empanell lately made by the sheriff of Nottinghamshire in the matter of the plea that Richard Sutton' has against the monastery of Durham is not to be trusted, the prior's counsel have advised him to refer the matter for settlement (“in trety”) to the archbishop of York, in whose good lordship he trusts. The prior therefore writes to him the copy of the letter that he sends to the archbishop, praying him, if the situation requires, to arrange for the archbishop to have it speedily or else, when he thinks it necessary, to send it to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford, that he may come with his evidence, and he and Richard Willoghby together present to the archbishop the letter the prior sends him and also the warden's evidence. The bearer hereof shall inform him more fully about this matter, to whom the prior prays him give credence.
Date: Durham, 1 December.
Digitised version

f.94v   [30 November ?1460]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: by Thomas Haryngton', knight), thanking God that he is past the trouble he was in, and asking him to be a good master to his fellow monk at Lytham; whereas there has been strange rule there recently and unrighteous behaviour by William Syngilton, whom Sir John Butiler made his deputy under him in the steward's office, as the prior there can inform him more fully, the prior of Durham beseeches him to allow the prior and his fellow monk to come to him when unocupied (“at a leysir”) and hear, advise and comfort them, and when he knows the situation, to advise the prior of Durham so that he may provide for a remedy in the future.
Date: Durham, St Andrew.
Digitised version

f.94v   [30 November ?1460]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to John Butiler, knight), whereas he has recently written to the prior that the prior of Lytham and dan John are of such rule that he cannot think it expedient for them to abide there, and as the prior of Durham understands that John Butiler has this information by William Syngilton, whom he does not find favourable to them, he therefore informs him that he is loth to take them away so hastily, since he can conceive nothing else but that the process that William has caused and procured against them stems from ill will and desire to shame John Butiler. That has not been the conduct of stewards there previously but [they] have taken side (part) with the prior and monks and if anything was amiss, they were ready to reform it by way of counsel. Whereas the prior is informed in writing by the said William that they are in danger and likely to be slain because of the hate men have for them, he says plainly that if they be slain or harmed, the said William is the cause, as the prior will declare to those who are empowered to inquire into such matters. Since he is steward, the prior beseeches him to provide for a right and honest rule for the time that he occupies [his office].
Date: Durham, St Andrew.
Digitised version

f.95r   2 July 1460
Grant by John, prior of Durham, to Thomas Lee, with the consent of his fellow monks, of one place or corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, lately held by Isabel Birtilby, provided he enters the said infirmary and remains there.
Date: Durham, 2 July 1460.
Digitised version

f.95r   15 November [1459]
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to Mr Edmund Mynsskypp', rector of Walkington, for 50s for the term of Martinmas last past, in full payment of a yearly pension of 100s, owed de iure to the prior and the office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid of old from the rectors thereof.
Date: Durham, 15 November 38 A. R. Henry VI.
Digitised version

f.95r   15 November [1459]
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to the provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, for 33s 4d for the term of Martinmas last past in full payment of a certain yearly pension of five marks, owed de iure to the prior and the office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid of old from the rectors or provosts thereof.
Date: Durham, 15 November 38 A. R. Henry VI.
Digitised version

f.95r-v   15 November 1460
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to John Driffeld, rector of [Kirby] Sigston, for one yearly pension of £6 13s 4d for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, owed to the prior and the communar of Durham from the rectors thereof and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 15 November 1460.
Digitised version

f.95v   12 October 1460
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall (margin: Oxford), for a yearly pension of 10s for the terms of John the Baptist [24 June] and Christmas 14(remainder of date blank), owed to the prior and monastery of Durham by reason of the appropriation of the church of Longbenton and assigned on the authority of the ordinary.
Date: Durham, 12 October 1460.
Digitised version

f.95v   20 January [1461]
Bond by John, prior of Durham and Robert Rodys, esquire, to Richard Modirby of Durham, for £6 13s 4d, to be paid to Richard or his certain attorney at Martinmas next without further delay.
Date: 20 January 39 A. R. Henry VI.
Margin: void since it has been paid.
Digitised version

f.95v   21 January [1461]
Bond by John, prior and the chapter of Durham, to Robert Sotheron, chaplain, for 40 marks, to be paid to Robert or his certain attorney at the feasts below, namely, £6 13s 4d each at Pentecost next, £6 13s 4d at St Peter ad vincula next thereafter, £6 13s 4d at the following Martinmas, £6 13s 4d at the following Purification of Mary [2 February].
Date: in [Durham] the chapter house, 21 January 39 A. R. Henry VI.
Margin: void since it has been paid.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.124r.
Digitised version

f.95v-96r   21 January [1461]
Bond by John, prior of Durham and Robert Rodys, esquire, to William Bentley, for {£10} (over erasure) <shillings and 4d> (crossed out), to be paid to William or his certain attorney at Easter next without further delay.
Date: 21 January 39 A. R. Henry VI.
Margin: void since it has been paid.
Digitised version

f.96r   3 March 1461
Memorandum that two letters were issued, [one] for the removal of Robert Knowte [monk of Durham] from the cell of Jarrow to the cell of Finchale and the other of John Both' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to the cell of Jarrow.
Date: 3 March 1460/1.
Digitised version

f.96r   27 April [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Th[omas] Hexham, [monk of Durham and] prior of Lytham), informing him that at the instigation and on the counsel of the bishop of Exeter, chancellor of England, and the earl of Warwick, his brother, he is advised and determined to discharge John Buteler, knight, of the stewardship of Lytham. At the nomination of the said lords, William Stanley, esquire, shall succeed him in the aforesaid office, who, the prior is informed, loves St Cuthbert and is of sufficient authority to defend his rights both in this area and in other places also necessary to the prior of Lytham and to that place. As soon as William Stanley and the prior of Lytham meet, the prior of Durham wills them both to agree to a man riding over to the aforesaid Sir John Buteler to certify him of his discharge.
Date: Durham, 27 April.
Digitised version

f.96r   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter by [John], prior and convent of Durham, (margin: to King Edward [IV]), whereas the queen, lately called Queen Margaret, borrowed from them 400 marks against their good will by might and power, which they could never have spared less, which Mr John Moreton, Thomas Tresham, William Grymmesby, esquires, and John Qwhelpdale, priest, are bound by an obligation to repay, and other various persons, lately deceased, owe them notable sums, i.e., the earl of Northumberland £22 13s 4d, Sir William Bartam £25 11s 8d, Sir John Heron 24s, Thomas Hilderton £8 13s 4d, Robert Fenkill' 50s, Robert Macson and Thomas Butre £3 6s 8d, [and] Robert Rokeby 33s 4d, they will never be recompensed or have any remedy without the king's special grace. May it therefore please the king that such remedy be had in this regard that the livelihood and goods of the said persons may satisfy them of the said sums.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxlv.
Digitised version

f.96r-v   30 September 1459
Mandate [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), whereas he is informed that Thomas Grene, lately scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, has recently left there, he orders him, when William Barker, clerk, originating in Allertonshire, should come to him, that he and his fellow monks should examine him, and, if found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive him favourably as scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 30 September 1459.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.132r.
Digitised version

f.96v   31 December 1459
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall [Oxford], for an annual pension of 10s for the terms of John the Baptist [24 June] and Christmas last past, owed to the prior and monastery of Durham by reason of the appropriation of the church of Longbenton and assigned on the authority of the ordinary.
Date: Durham, 31 December 1459.
Also DCD Reg. IV, f.132r.
Digitised version

f.96v   1 December 1459
Memorandum that quittances were issued to Mr Thomas Beny, prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, for the payment of 13s 4d, by reason of a pension owed to the chancellor of Durham by the prebendary thereof and customarily paid at the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas, dated 1 December 1459. A similar quittance was issued to the same Thomas for the payment of the said pension, as mentioned before, which was owed for 1460.
Digitised version

f.96v   16 May 1461
Memorandum that a certain letter was issued in the common form, as evident on f.3[r] of this book for removing John Both' [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Holy Island.
Date: 16 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.96v   19 May 1461
[Memorandum] that a similar letter was issued for similarly removing Richard Wrake, [monk of Durham and] master of Farne Island, from there to Jarrow.
Date: 19 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.96v   19 May 1461
Memorandum that one letter was issued under the prior's long seal for appointing John Kirke [monk of Durham] as master or keeper of the cell of Farne Island, according to the form for the appointment of John Bradbery, as evident on f.21[r] of this book.
Date: 19 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.96v   18 May 1461
Memorandum that a letter was issued in the common form, as evident on f.3[r] of this book, for removing William Dalton [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to Finchale priory.
Date: 18 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.96v   18 May 1461
[Memorandum] that a similar letter was issued in the common form, as evident on the same f.3[r] of this book, for removing Robert West [monk of Durham] from Finchale priory to the monastery of Durham.
Date: 18 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.97r   2 May 1461
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to the executors or administrators of the property of the late Robert Marchall', rector of [West] Rounton, York diocese, for 30s owed for three years before the date of the presents, in full payment of a certain yearly pension of 10s, owed de iure to the prior and the office of sacrist of Durham and customarily paid of old by the rectors thereof at Martinmas and Pentecost.
Date: Durham, 2 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.97r   30 May 1461
Appointment by John, prior of Durham, of Richard Blacwell' [monk of Durham], as cellarer of Finchale, under the prior thereof, provided that he renders an account every month to the prior and monks thereof of all receipts and expenses, as customarily done from of old. He is to show the presents to the prior thereof so that he admits him to the said office.
Date: Durham, 30 May 1461.
Digitised version

f.97v   20 June [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John etc. [prior of Durham]), (margin: to the lord of Fauconberg), informing him that William Cropwell' and William Lawson' of the parish of Washington, claiming to be his men, are resolved to do him wrong in his jurisdiction, long posseessed peaceably in the chapel of Hylton. If they do belong to his lordship, he desires him to charge them to desist or else allow the prior to proceed against them lawfully without offending him, and to give credence to such matters as the bearer hereof shall declare to his lordship on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 20 June.
Digitised version

f.97v   30 June [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Richard, earl of Warwick), informing him that a poor kinsman of his, Richard Billingham, has attached [himself] and associated with Humphrey Nevill', supposing and trusting that the said Humphrey had remained a true liegeman to King Edward [IV] and the earl, and would otherwise not have taken up with him, except out of compulsion and fear of his life or other bodily harm, as the prior is informed. He beseeches the earl, unless any information is given to him to the contrary, to be a gracious lord to the said Richard until such time as he comes to his lordship for his pardon.
Date: Durham, 30 June. i]
Digitised version

f.97v   1 July [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to the lord of Fauconberg), whereas he is informed that he is displeased with his fellow monk, the master of Jarrow, as a result of information given to him by George of Lumley, which the prior would not have confided (“tristid”) to him, he beseeches him that, if he thinks it desirable, the master of Jarrow might come to his lordship's presence to make the matter clear (for his declaration), or else his lordship might provide for him that he may ride and go in the country where he likes for the benefit of his place, for the prior dares say and make it good that he is and has been a true man to King Edward [IV], [the earl] of Warwick, his lordship, and all others of that party.
Date: Durham, 1 July.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xxi and (partly) A.J. Piper, The Durham Monks at Jarrow, (Jarrow lecture 1986), p.21.
Digitised version

f.98r   1 July [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to John Nevill', esquire, dwelling in Wymmesley), thanking God for his improvement in health. Whereas he is informed that there is a place in Hemingbrough, held in chief by him and his fellow monks, lately vacant by the death of William Goldesburgh', for which and other things the said William owed great sums to the prior and Richard Rakett', of which John Nevill' shall have full knowledge from the bearer hereof, the prior requires him by virtue of his office to allow no one to fine for the said place in his court, until such time as provision be had by his wisdom, before him or his deputy, with sufficient surety as to how the said sums will be paid in release of William's soul.
Date: Durham, 1 July.
Digitised version

f.98r   5 July 1461
Memorandum that on 5 July 1461 one quittance was issued to the provost of the church of Hemingbrough for 33s 4d for the term of Pentecost last past, owed to the prior and office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid by the provost thereof. On the same date another quittance was issued to the rector of the church of Walkington for 50s owed to the said prior and the office of chamberlain for the term of Pentecost last past and customarily paid by the rectors thereof.
Digitised version

f.98r   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of Durham), informing him that on 15 July an unsealed schedule was affixed to the door of [Durham] Cathedral, inhibiting and citing him and his fellow monks lawfully to appear at Rome on the day appointed there to make answer to Robert Staynton', priest of Hylton, in the matter of an appeal, of which the bishop is aware. The prior beseeches him to provide them with a remedy as he thinks most expedient, and to give credence to the bearer hereof in all other matters that he might declare to him on the prior's behalf. For further information, he sends to the bishop a true copy of the said schedule, with such evidence as he proposes to use in his defence.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f. 98v   22 July [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the lord chancellor of England), requesting his help and advice in his necessity, especially in the cause of a plea between a priest called Robert Staynton' and himself, now pending in the court of Rome at his suit, as his own clerk, Mr William Laybron' can inform him. He beseeches him to inform the said William and to helpe with your goodes for eschaunge to be made aftir my necessite, and the prior will be ready to make payment in accordance with the chancellor's command. He beseeches him to put into effect what means can be found in this matter by his wisdom or that of William or any other who might speak to the chancellor therein. He asks him to give credence in this matter or any other which the said William shall declare to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 22 July.
Digitised version

f.98v   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to Mr John Lilford), informing him that on 15 July a letter was affixed to the door of the church of Durham, inhibiting him and his fellow monks on the pope's authority from attempting anything against the right of Robert Staynton and his chapel of Hylton, and citing him and the chapter to appear at Rome on the eightieth day following, and commanding them to exhibit such evidence as will further Robert's part, as John Lilford shall see in the said letter. He therefore beseeches him, as he has hitherto given assistance in this matter, henceforth to help to bring this matter to a conclusion. He sends Mr William Laybron' to inform him of such things as have happened here and of what shall be done in this matter. He will make good any expenses.
Date (Latin): “as above”.
Digitised version

f.98v-99r   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to Mr John Crosseby), praying him, in the event he is present, to assist him in a cause of a plea, pending in the court, which a priest of his area, called Robert Staynton', has against him and his house, according to the information that he will have; he shall find the prior well disposed to please him in such things as he may do for him in the future.
Date (Latin): “etc. as in the next [preceding] letter”.
Digitised version

f.99r   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Laxe), certifying him by the presents how on 15 July an unsealed schedule was affixed to the church door, inhibiting him and his fellow monks from attempting anything against their adversary, Robert Staynton', priest, of the chapel of Hylton, pending his appeal in the court of Rome, and citing them to appear at Rome on the eightieth day following, to make answer to him. Considering the special writing that he and Doctor Lilford previously wrote to him in the same matter, he marvels that such things should be obtained or proceed against them with John their special proctor abiding in the court, and let them have no knowledge thereof in writing in due time. Nevertheless, since this is so, he prays him to be zealous in withstanding Robert Staynton's great malice and, in accordance with his wisdom and the effect of the process previously held at York in the same matter, and of the evidence the prior sends herewith, to provide a sufficient remedy, as the law requires.
Date: “as above in the next [preceding] letter”.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xxiv.
Digitised version

p.99-100   26 July 1461
Mandate by John, prior of Durham, archdeacon in the churches appropriated to him and the chapter, to Thomas Tomson of [West] Rounton, York diocese, stating that, since, as he has learned, a certain Robert Smyth', lately rector of the church of [West] Rounton, deceased, negligently left uncorrected many notable faults in the chancel and rectory thereof, which occurred in his time, whose repair pertained to him when alive and now pertains to his farmers, executors or any administrators of his goods, as it should by custom and right.+ On behalf of Richard Nicson, the present rector thereof, who feels that he has been injured and burdened in this regard, entreaty was made to the prior to provide a suitable remedy for him. Assenting to his entreaties as just and consonant to reason, and wishing to have regard for the church's benefit in these and other [matters], the prior has duly sequestrated, for the aforementioned as well as for other lawful causes, the profits, revenues and income, all other moveable and immoveable goods and debts, in whosesoever hands they are, pertaining to the late Robert, when alive, and now to his farmers, executors or administrators, by reason of any lawful contract, testament or last will. He therefore commands Thomas to cause it to be announced that the said sequestration had thus been interposed, and to keep or cause to be kept the sequestrated profits [etc.] under strict and secure sequestration, until he has another mandate from the prior.
Date: 26 July 1461.
(Postscript:) This clause , “Several furnishings of the place were also stealthily removed in the time of the late [Thomas] through his fault”, inserted on the other side of the folio at the sign of the holy cross +.
Digitised version

p.100   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [possibly incomplete at the end] [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Will[iam] Bawez), stating that he has recently been informed that he desires to have in farm the tithe corn of Hylton for certain years, which his fellow monk of Wearmouth, to whom it belongs, may in no way relinquish without great harm to him and the said place. It has previously been said to the prior by indifferent persons that because of such previous demises his fellow monk is now destitute of all manner of corn, buying it daily at the dearest price to him and to the great hurt of Wearmouth since, through the lack of straw, his places are unrepaired, his cattle famished and his land uncultivated. Considering the great and growing injury to Wearmouth by such demises, the prior, on the advice of his fellow monks, has charged him not to make any [demises] without special licence from him. He beseeches William Bawez to be a good master to him and to allow him peaceably to occupy and enjoy the said tithes to his profit, for in the event it should be let to farm to any man, it is his will and the prior's that William should have it before anyone else.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xxii-xxiii.
Digitised version

p.101   16 August [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to [the earl] of Warwick), informing him that John Fereby, yeoman of the crown, on the authority of a gift of the king, as he pretends, is taking and engrossing to his own use the goods and chattels of the prior's tenants within the lordship of Hemingbrough by way of a forfeiture and escheat against the privileges, freedoms and liberties of the monastery of Durham hitherto {peaceably} enjoyed and possessed without interruption from time out of mind. He therefore beseeches his support, favour and help so that, on the good advice of Sir Robert Danby, justice, Guy Fayrefaxe and Richard Pygote, who have seen and examined the prior's evidence, he provides a suitable remedy in that regard for him and his fellow monks.
Date: Durham, 16 August.
Digitised version

p.101   6 September [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to John Butiler, knight), informing him that for certain causes and at the instigation of various of his good lords who have so advised him, he has charged Sir Will[iam] Stanley with the stewardship of Lytham and must therefore necessarily discharge him of the same office. He beseeches him, as he was appointed in the same office by his missive letter without other authentic [letters] or letters patent, to take this missive letter as a sufficient discharge, in which he discharges him of the said office for the cause rehearsed above.
Date: Durham, 6 September.
Digitised version

p.101-102   9 September [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by Lawr[ence], bishop of Durham), (superscription: to Mr Thomas Hope), whereas the prior of Durham is cited to appear at Rome before an auditor called Bernard Romia (or Ronna) or his substitute to answer in a matter of an appeal at the instance of Robert Staynton', priest of Hylton, he prays him, considering the good will the prior and church of Durham have for the king, who will write specially to the pope for them, to show them special favour and help in the aforesaid matter, to help to get a delegacy directed to certain persons, whose names will be sent to him, and to labour in this matter, for which he shall deserve special thanks, be assured of the good will of the prior and church, and be rewarded. He prays him to send him word speedily of all matters discussed between them, especially concerning Symon Noree, and advises him to further the king's master as speedily as he can.
Date: Auckland, 9 September.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xxiv-xxv.
Digitised version

p.102   15 September 1461
Memorandum that a letter was issued in the common form , as evident on f.3[r] of this book, for removing John Ryhall' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to the monastery of Durham.
Date: 15 September 1461.
Digitised version

p.102   [?15 September 1461]
[Memorandum] that a similar letter was issued in the common form, as evident on the same f.[3r] for removing William Pelton' [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the said cell of Monkwearmouth.
Date: “on the same day and year”.
Digitised version

p.102   4 October [1461]
Memorandum that a quittance in the common form, as evident on f.8[r-v] of this book, was made to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne for the payment of a yearly pension of £9 <1>3s 4d, owed to the prior and convent of Durham for the term of Michaelmas last past and received by the hand of John Kirke, monk of Farne Island [and Durham].
Date: 4 October 1 A. R. Edward IV.
Digitised version

p.102   27 September 1461
Mandate (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to the keeper (margin: warden) of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since, as the prior is informed, Brian Holme, scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, is {shortly} about to leave there, the prior, at the special request of the bishop of Durham, has determined that John Laynge, originating in the lordship of Howdenshire, should be admitted in Brian's place, when vacant. He commands him to examine the same John when he should come to him, and, if found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive him favourably as a scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 27 September 1461.
Digitised version

f.103r   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Danby), thanking him for his kindness and especially for his recent labour with regards to [the earl] of Warwick for the letters sent to Hemingbroughshire, and informing him that a parishioner of his, the bearer hereof, William Claymond of Frampton, Lincolnshire, has been troubled and outlawed at the suit of one of his farmers, in the prior's name, as he says; forasmuch as the said William and the prior are fully agreed and each of them generally quit with regards to the other, the prior therefore beseeches him to be William's good master with regards to the king's officers, the prior's attorney and all others with any interest herein, that he may be reconciled and brought to as good a state as he was before, by as favourable means and at as moderate a cost as Robert can devise.
Digitised version

f.103r   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Upton'), whereas he occupies at Frampton as farmer, he prays him to see that all dues are paid for his time, especially the vicar's portion, for until he entered upon the farm the vicar was fully paid for all years and terms, beginning with the first payment at Michaelmas and the last at Midsummer; this is plainly evident until the time [the prior] left Frampton, first in the vicar's book written in William's hand; after that he was paid by William Claymond for three years in a similar manner, and for three years since the prior was last there, he can show that he was paid in full, so that after William's entry the first payment should have been at Michaelmas and the last at Midsummer and so forth. The prior is informed that William should claim money owed to the vicar who died for [before ?] the prior's time, for which he intends to sue the prior; if he does so, as the prior cannot believe, the prior will defend and declare himself and further do as it suits him. William was the man in whom the prior put full trust and it was his pleasure to deal with him more than with any other and, he supposes, he never found the prior intractable. He trusts that if they were at leisure to speak together they would easily agree; otherwise he may write to the prior of his intention and he will answer in writing.
Digitised version

f.103r-v   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Upton), informing him that the late Richard Benyngton' was his feedman for the past forty years and had often said to the prior and sent him word that after his death [the monastery of Durham] should be better for his goods, since he had arranged for William Upton to be the executor of his last will, as the prior is informed. The prior prays him to deliver such legacies as he has appointed to the prior and his fellow monks to the warden of Durham College Oxford when he comes to William's area. The said Richard had a bond of the prior's, in which John Paulyn and his borrower were bound to the prior of Durham for £44, of which £27 6s 8d remained in Richard's hands at the prior's last reckoning, with not a penny paid to him. He had often asked him for this money but did not receive it, being loth to trouble himself or vex him by a suit. The prior said once to Richard that if he would find the means by which the prior would be paid twenty marks within two years, he would pardon the rest. When the prior was absent and unaware, the bond was broken and John Paulyn made various bonds for 40s to be paid yearly until full satisfaction was made for twenty marks. Thus lacking his money and the evidence with which to request it, the prior must have recourse to William to recover his evidence and will ask for his money from [John] by the most effective means he can have by the greatest lords of this land. He asks him to provide him with an answer in this which pertains to him.
Digitised version

f.103v   6 September 1461
Quitclaim by John, prior of Durham, to William Claymond, senior, gentleman of Frampton, Lincolnshire, releasing and quitclaiming him, on behalf of the prior, his fellow monks and successors, from all actions, suits, charges and demands, real and personal, which the prior has or may have against him, by reason of any agreement, contract, account, offence, sale, deliberation, receipt, debt or demand, or any other matter or cause between the prior and the said William.
Date: 6 September 1461.
Digitised version

f.103v-104r   [?1461]
Quitclaim by John, prior of Durham, to William Claymond, senior, yeoman of Frampton, releasing and quitclaiming him, on behalf of the prior, his fellow monks and successors, “etc. as above”.
Digitised version

f.104r   [?1461]
Quitclaim by William Claymond, senior, gentleman of Frampton, Lincolnshire, to John, prior of Durham, his fellow monks and successors, releasing and quitclaiming him from all actions, suits, charges and demands, real and personal, which he has or may have against them, by reason of any agreement, contract, account, offence, sale, deliberation, receipt, debt or demand, or any other matter or cause between him and the aforesaid religious men.
Under his seal.
Date: “as above in the next” [preceding document].
Digitised version

f.104r   31 December 1461
Memorandum concerning the quittance to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall [Oxford] for 10s owed to the prior and monastery of Durham by reason of the appropriation of the church of Longbenton, issued according to the form on f.6[r-v] of this book.
Date: 31 December 1461.
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f.104r   10 October 1461
Mandate [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since, as he is informed, Robert Cave alias Raper is shortly about to leave [Durham] College Oxford, he commands him, when Robert's place should happen, as is claimed, to be vacant through his departure, to examine Thomas Lucas, clerk of Howden, originating there, as soon as he should come to him after the vacancy and, if he is found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive him favourably as scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 10 October 1461.
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f.104r   [?1461]
[Memorandum] that a similar letter was issued to the warden of the said college for receiving a certain Richard Wermouth', originating in Durham, to the place next vacant through the departure of Robert Hertburne, scholar there.
Date: “on the same date and year”.
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f.104r-v   5 October 1461
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Mr R[obert] Wilson, keeper of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire), thanking him for the care and untiring efforts he has expended for reserving the prior's rights and liberties in Howden and Howdenshire, and especially for the 26s 8d, received by him from the prebendary of Skipwith and lately sent by him to the prior. Although three years have elapsed since his visitation there, as he understands from Robert's letters, for certain causes he intends to postpone such a visitation until after Easter, which is to be carried out by his commissaries. He sends to him for reformation certain injunctions, fines and penalties found in his last visitation. He asks him to be favourable with regards to certain articles to be disclosed (“aperitud'”) to him by the prior's fellow monk, the warden of [Durham] College Oxford, concerning the repair of the rectory of the church of Fishlake [W. R. Yorks], so that with his assistance and advice the executors of John Wright', to whom the repair pertains, are strictly compelled to carry out this repair quickly, as is right.
Date: Durham, 5 October 1461.
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f.104v-105r   [23 September ?1461]
Letter by George [Neville], bishop of Exeter, to Vincent Clement, opening with a lengthy discourse on friendship, mentioning the friendships between Scipio and Laelius, Theseus and Pirithous, and Damon and Pythias. Since the prior of Durham, long dedicated at great personal danger to the bishop and his household and to truth and justice, for certain causes appointed Vincent Clement and Francis Berengarii, Vincent's nephew, his lawful proctors, the bishop beseeches him, after he has become acquainted with it, to assist the cause of the prior, on whose behalf sentence was promulgated in the court of the archbishop of York (as the bishop reckons) sufficiently judicially. An appeal was made for tuition to that court from the court of [the bishop] of Durham before sentence was determined. The other party, a certain Robert Staynton', chaplain of the chaplaincy or chantry of Monkwearmouth, Durham diocese, having appealed from the same sentence to the apostolic see, will fail (“casurus”) in the case, as is firmly believed, when at length evidences should be exhibited on behalf of the prior, which the bishop hopes will be as soon as possible. He entreats him to urge his nephew to show himself favourable and diligent in this matter, as the bishop would have done by his letters if he had not been prevented. Moreover, the prior is sending a certain nuncio of his, Robert Walker, chaplain, to him; the bishop requests him to receive him benevolently when he should come to him. If he and his nephew are industrious in this matter, they will make the matter welcome to God and render the bishop even friendlier, and finally the prior will therefore conduct himself towards him in such a manner that he will not repent his labours. He is not certifying him how English matters stand which he reckons he has learned from others, and the bishop hopes that he will shortly come hither.
Date: the manor of Moor, 9 Kal. October.
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f.105r-v   27 October [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the chancellor of England [George Neville]), requesting his help to further the bill that he put to the king when he was at Durham, of which he sends him a copy by his fellow monk, Thomas Cale, who can inform him of the great costs and loss that the monastery of Durham has experienced of late, whereby they are unable to bear their charges as they were accustomed. They despair of recovering their goods and of being of influence ( “power”) as they were, except that his trust is in him chiefly, and in the prior's lords, the chancellor's brothers, his mother, the prior's good lady, lady Fitzhugh, lady Stanley, lord Fauconberg, lord Fitzhugh and lord Stanley, by whose intercession he trusts the king will be inclined to grant him his request, for when he left at St Cuthbert [20 March] [the bishop] of Durham took the prior in his hand and knelt before the king, as did [the earl] of Warwick and the prior beside them. They prayed the king to be the prior's good lord who said he would be and would remember his bill. If this grace should be granted and some man assigned to make the payment either in part or full, he wishes, if the chancellor thinks so, that he should be charged by the chancellor in the king's name to bring to him a quittance under the prior's seal of such sums as he shall recover and within such time as the chancellor will think. Otherwise he fears that such men may be assigned to make him payment who either will not pay or he dare not ask them for it. [The bishop] of Durham is his good lord. Humphrey Nevill' has been a troublesome man to him and his fellow monks; if he comes again to their region to have liberty and rule as before, the prior fears that he and his fellow monks will not enjoy their goods in peace. He never wronged him as he will prove. He beseeches the chancellor to provide a remedy that he does them no more harm.
Date: Durham, 27 October.
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f.105v   [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by “as above” [i.e., John, prior of Durham]), (margin: to the lady Fitzhugh), whereas he put up a bill to the king the last time he was at Durham to recover certain money that Margaret, late queen of England, had from him utterly against his will through fear of her and other lords of her counsel then having rule of these northern parts, and other small sums contained in the same bill, of which he sends her a copy with the bearer hereof, his fellow monk, the warden of [Durham] College Oxford, beseeching her help and to act as an intermediary with his lady, her mother, so that through the intercession of her mother, lady Fitzhugh herself, his lords her brothers, and others who may be moved by her, he might be satisfied of the said bill.
Date (Latin): “as above”.
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f.105v-106r   25 October [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the chancellor of England [George Neville]), whereas the chancellor remembered Mr John Lounde and sent for him to come to him, as the prior believes, to his great comfort and hope of help in his need, the prior thanks him. [The bishop] of Durham is displeased with John Lounde and acts strangely towards him, as it seems to the prior, who does not know the cause. When he made entreaty to [the bishop] on his behalf, he said that if the prior knew what he knew, he would not have made entreaty for him but however the chancellor may bring them to a good accord and find a means whereby John may have [the bishop's] good lordship and peaceably enjoy his livelihood. The prior is obliged to help John to the best of his ability for he has been his good helper in all his great matters. He must therefore have recourse to the chancellor who may help John in his right and to his heart's ease. He recalls the chancellor's writing for Mr John Lonesdale, in which matter he intends to please him. The archbishop of York wrote once to him to remember the promise his predecessor made him. The bearer of the letter declared to him that it was Mr John Marchall's prebend. If this gives rise to any offence, he must desire the chancellor's help, since the prior did not promise it to him and his writing also came to him after the chancellor's. The king also approached him when he was at Durham for the first prebend to be vacant in Howden and the prior excused himself because of the promise made to the chancellor. Because Mr John Segden is one of the king's chaplains to whom the prior is greatly beholden, as Mr John Lounde can inform him, and would welcome his promotion, therefore if the king at the instigation of the chancellor should like to write to the prior and his fellow monks for that end, it would be a means both to him [to obtain] his promotion and to the prior to avoid many inopportune requests from other men.
Date: Durham, 25 October.
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f.106r   14 September [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to the chancellor of England), thanking him for his good favour always shown to him, especially for recently looking favourably upon Mr William Laybron in the prior's matters and for his great support in time of need; informing him that because he hears no word of his proctors in the court of Rome and is uncertain about the matters pending there which concern him and his fellow monks, on the advice of counsel he has appointed other proctors, i.e., Mr Vincent Clement, to whom [the earl] of Warwick has written for the prior, Mr Thomas Hope, to whom [the bishop] of Durham has written, and Mr Fraunces Beringier', whom the prior trusts would work effectively for him if the chancellor would write to him. If the chancellor should make entreaty to the king to write to the pope, the prior trusts his matter would proceed speedily. He beseeches his help and advice in these matters and to give credence to William Laybron' in what he shall declare to him on the prior's behalf. In the event that Mr John Lounde has anything to do with him, he beseeches the chancellor to be his good lord and show him special favour and support in his rights.
Date: Durham, 14 September.
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f.106v   17 October 1461
Commission by John, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in York diocese, to Mr Robert Wilson, B.Cn. & C.L., keeper of the aforesaid spirituality, stating that since in the acts of his ordinary visitation in Howden and Howdenshire, carried out in 1458 by Mr John Marchall', B.Cn. & C.L., residentiary [canon] of York, William Seton', B.Th., subprior of Durham, William Langton', B.Cn. & C.L., John Worseley, B.Cn. & C.L., William Elwike, chancellor of the monastery of Durham, and Mr Thomas Farleton, notary public by apostolic authority, general proctor of the court of York, his lawfully deputed commissaries, he finds that certain clerics (“ecclesiastic' viros”) subject to his jurisdiction {and also obliged to be subject to his visitation from right and custom}, on account of their contumacy judicially incurred {before his said commissaries or at least any one of them} had by decree been fined various sums of money, noted in the schedule sent to him with the presents, and several injunctions and lawful penalties interposed on the wardens and parishioners of various churches for the repair of defects found there; he therefore grants him full authority to levy and raise on his authority all and sundry such fines and penalties owed to the prior on that account, or at his discretion to moderate, mitigate and, if necessary, remit them and by ecclesiastical censures to compel any obstinate and rebellious persons, refusing to pay or otherwise compound with him for such fines and penalties, to [make] such payment or composition, and to perform and carry out what is necessary and required of right.
Date: Durham, 17 October 1461.
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f.106v   [17 October 1461]
Memorandum that a similar commission was made for Mr William Laybron', keeper of such spirituality in [North]Allerton and Allertonshire, to levy similar fines and penalties there, with authority to moderate, mitigate and remit, and perform other matters, as above.
Date: “the same day, month and year”.
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f.106v-107r   18 October 1461
Mandate by the official of the jurisdiction of the prior of Durham, archdeacon in the churches appropriated to him and the chapter, to William Litster, sworn apparitor, stating that although all and sundry rectors, vicars and parish clerks of Durham diocese, as a sign of submission and in honour of God and the church of Durham, are obliged, under penalty of 40d, to be levied against any of them violating the said custom (in accordance with the synodal constitution enacted in that regard) and to be applied entirely to the fabric of the said church, to come to the said church themselves, or by suitable chaplains on their behalf, in copes or surplices with their parish clerks carrying banners, and to walk in procession there every year on the seven days of Pentecost assigned for this from the said custom, and each to offer 1d to the shrine of St Cuthbert, certain rectors and vicars subject to his aforesaid jurisdiction, whose names are written on the back of the presents, setting aside the procession in Pentecost week last, did not take care to come, either by themselves or by others, as is customary, violating the said constitution to the grave danger of their souls and as a pernicious example to others. He therefore commands him by virtue of obedience to cite or cause to be cited the said rectors and vicars, [whose names are] written in the back of the presents, to appear before him in the church of Durham St Oswald on Thursday next after Simon and Jude next to come [29 October] to allege reasonable cause, if any, why the said penalty should not be levied from them and applied to the fabric of the said church, and further to do and receive in this regard what was just and fair. He is duly to certify him, [along] with the tenor of the presents, on the abovesaid day and place as to what he has done in the aforementioned.
Date: 18 October 1461.
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f.107r-v   [?1461]
Commission by John, prior of Durham, archdeacon in the churches appropriated to him and the monastery of Durham, to William Litster', his sworn apparitor, stating that, although the rectors, vicars, chaplains and parish clerks of the churches and chapels, written in the schedule annexed to the presents, are bound, without a monition having been issued to them, to come to the general chapter held by his archidiaconal authority twice a year, namely, on the next Thursday after a synod, in the church of St Oswald, according to the ancient and approved custom hitherto practised within the bishopric of Durham from time out of mind, nevertheless they did not take care to appear in the last chapter, namely, on Thursday, 8 October inst., held by his commissary himself or his sufficient proctors according to the said custom in the said church. The said commissary, lawfully proceeding against them, thereby pronounced contumacious all and sundry there summoned, proclaimed and long awaited who did not appear, and as punishment for their contumacy fined by decree any rector and vicar 2s, chaplain 12d and parish clerk 6d, to be applied to the fabric of the church of Durham. He commits full authority to him to seek, levy and receive from them such fines, noted in the said schedule, and to render an account to the prior in respect thereof, commanding him to cite or cause to be cited any rebellious persons and those refusing to pay such fines to appear before the prior or his commissary or official in the said church on Thursday next after Simon and Jude next to come [29 October], to allege reasonable cause, if any, why they should not be compelled by sequestration of profits and other ecclesiastical censures to pay such fines, and to do and accept what was just and reasonable.
Date: “etc.”
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f.107v   1 December 1461
Memorandum that a quittance was issued according to the form specified on f. 11[rv] of this book to Mr Thomas Beny, prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, for 13s 4d, owed by the prebendary of the prebend to the prior and monastery of Durham and the office of chancellor there by reason of a pension, and customarily paid at the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas.
Date: 1 December 1461.
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f.107v   4 November 1461
Licence by John, prior of Durham, to Roland Brooke, stating that, although in the letters about the corrody or place in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, [granted] by his immediate predecessor to him and his late wife, Denise, care is expressly taken, among the other incumbent charges, that, after one of them has died, the survivor, in living continently for the remainder of his or her life, should abstain from marriage under penalty of the loss of this corrody in perpetuity, his deserving behaviour and bodily infirmity by which, as he asserts, he is so wearied that he can scarcely live without a helpmeet, persuade the prior that he should bestow more munificence on him in the aforementioned, so that he may receive and have the said corrody, aspire to a second marriage, where God should provide for this, and stay outside the said infirmary with his wife at will. For the aforementioned causes and other legitimate and proper ones which he explained to the prior, the prior dispenses him for as long as he, whilst living, duly carries out and upholds, by himself or another respectable person, all and sundry statutes, customs, orisons, prayers and other charges incumbent on the same infirmary. If he should neglect to do this, then he will be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 4 November 1461.
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f.108r   15 September 1461
Memorandum that four letters of removal were issued in the common form, namely, one for removing William Pelton' [monk of Durham] from the monastery [of Durham] to Wearmouth, the second for John Ryall' [monk of Durham] from Wearmouth to Lytham, the third for John Rose [monk of Durham] from Lytham to Holy Island, [and] the fourth for Thomas Gynour [monk of Durham] from [Holy] Island to the monastery.
Date: 15 September 1461.
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f.108r   [12 November] 1461
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to the abbot of Newminster near Morpeth, for 13s 4d, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Stannington and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, on the day after Martinmas 1461.
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f.108r   13 November 1461
Memorandum that one corrody or place in the infirmary, lately belonging to Helen Rowland, was granted for life to Thomas Rowland under the prior's long seal, according to the form of the similar corrody granted to Thomas Lee, previously written in this book on the eleventh folio [preceding, not counting inclusively, f.95r].
Date: Durham, 13 November 1461.
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f.108r   [?1461]
Memorandum that one quittance for the rector of [Kirby] Sigston for a pension of 6 marks 13s 4d, assigned to the office of communar, was issued according to the form of a similar quittance previously written in this register on the eleventh folio [preceding, not counting inclusively, f.95r-v (or possibly f.11v where there is a quittance for the executors of the rector].
Date: Durham.
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f.108r-v   1 December [?1461]
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of Glasgow), informing him that by apostolic letters granted to the prior, his fellow monks and monastery, a transumpt of which he resolved should be sent to him by the bearer of the presents, Pope Nicolas V appointed the bishop as helper (“adiutricem”) to them to preserve unimpaired, protect and defend the property, goods, possessions, liberties and privileges belonging to them in the cell of Coldingham. The prior therefore humbly entreats him, in assuming the charge of executing the same letters out of reverence for the [apostolic] see and his devotion towards St Cuthbert, to resist, in accordance with the authority bestowed on him, the corrupt and damnable intent of a certain Mr Patrick Home, pretended archdeacon of Teviotdale, to disturb the prior and his fellow monk, John Pencher, prior of the said cell, by certain surreptitious letters obtained, as he asserts, in the Roman curia concerning the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 1 December.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.188.
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f.108v   1 December [?1461]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Alex[ander] Home), informing him that Mr Patrick Home, archdeacon of Teviotdale, his near kinsman, as is said, for his promotion has procured at the court of Rome certain bulls against the prior and his fellow monks, and in particular against the prior of Coldingham, proposing to exclude him and them forevermore from their freedoms, liberties and possessions which they have long peaceably enjoyed in the said cell without interruption. He asks him, as his full trust is in him as he is their faithful protector in that land, to vouchsafe in time of need to bestow his help and favour on them in withstanding his malicious purpose, so that through his good protection they will not be hurt by Patrick in the said sources of revenue (“lyfelode”) other than they previously have been.
Date: Durham, 1 December.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.187-188.
Digitised version

f.108v   15 December 1461
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued according to the common form, namely, one for the removal of William Rotburne [monk of Durham] from Coldingham to Holy Island and the other for that of William Roose [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Coldingham.
Date: 15 December 1461.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.189.
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f.108v   15 March 1459
Memorandum that one corrody was granted to Cecily, widow of Thomas Bradbery, in the infirmary of Durham, lately held by Emmotte Fynlawe, to be held for life, for performing the accustomed prayers. She has had letters in the accustomed form, with liberty to remain outside [the infirmary].
Date: 15 March 1458/9.
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f.108v-109r   5 January 1462
Grant by John, prior of Durham, to Cecily, widow of Thomas Bradbery, with the consent of his chapter, of one corrody or place for life in the hospital of Witton [Gilbert] near Bearpark, lately vacant by the death of (blank), with special licence to stay outside in some respectable place for as long as she lives, provided that she keeps the statutes [etc.] of the hospital, with the exception of residence within.
Date: Durham, 5 January 1461/2
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f.109r-v   [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Bawes, knight), thanking him for all the gentleness shown him, and especially for the good venison which he sent him for Christmas. Whereas he recently wrote to the prior for Robert Redehede to occupy Morehouse *, he thought to inform him of the situation. John Wright' and his father before him have occupied this same place for more than thirty years. He has always been a good payer and well disposed to [the monastery of Durham], and has the good reputation among his neighbours that he is a good and true man. Because the prior of Finchale, Richard Bell, complained to the almoner that the said John had done him great injury with his cattle, the almoner warned him at Martinmas to vacate by Whitsun and take Robert Redehede to fely furth with. John Wright thereupon complained about him to the prior who, on the advice of his fellow monks, told the almoner to allow him to have it further, considering that the warning was hasty and that the man had sown his wheat, with other circumstances that William Bawes may perhaps know another day. After this Robert Redehede asked the prior for his lease ( “tack”) who said that he should not have it at present. Robert went away from him and said in the presence of many of the prior's household that he would have his will therein, whatever should come thereof. Since the prior is informed that he says, along with many other great words, that if he should not have it at his will, it shall lie untilled ( “ley”) for seven years, he trusts William Bawes will not support him herein. The prior will withstand his arrogance to his utmost. He might have had something by being easy but he shall not overcome the prior with arrogance. He marvels that William is so willing to reward him with the prior's goods for the feeble service, as men say, he did him this last year. In this matter and others the prior proposes to have discussion with him more fully at their next meeting.
Date: “etc.”
[* Presumably Moorhouse, par. Houghton-le-Spring, which belonged to the almoner's estate.]
Transcript: DCL Raine 110.
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f.109v   11 January 1462
Memorandum that one letter, addressed to the archbishop of York for taking the plea pending between the prior and chapter of Durham and a certain Richard Sutton into his own hands, was issued, word-for-word without any addition or deletion, according to the form contained on the fourteenth folio preceding (f.94r].
Date: 11 January 1461/2.
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f.109v   31 December 1461
Memorandum that three letters of removal were issued in the common form, one for the removal of William Coveringham [monk of Durham] from Lytham to the monastery [of Durham], the second for that of Thomas Genour [monk of Durham] from the monastery to Holy Island and the third for that of John Rose [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Lytham.
Date: 31 December 1461.
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f.109v   12 January [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by J[ohn], p[rior] of Durham), (margin: to lord Montagu), whereas he has asked the prior by his letters to grant to Gerard Salvayn for life the stewardship of Hemingbrough under his common seal, the prior asks him to excuse him in this, considering that the said office has long been occupied by John Nevill', esquire, to whom the prior recently wrote, wishing to know whether he would duly and effectively occupy the office or not. John Nevill' wrote back and said that he might occupy it as well as he ever did before, earnestly desiring to keep it still, which the prior granted him. In the event, he at that time had been disposed to have left it, then at the instance of Robert Danby and others, the prior had made a promise thereof to Guy Fairfaxe, which promise they will think he should keep when it becomes vacant. He beseeches his lordship, having given due consideration to the aforementioned, to excuse him because he may not fulfull his wish at this time.
Date: Durham, 12 January.
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f.109v-110r   13 January [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the earl of Warwick), whereas he has lately sent to the prior Richard Pygote and John Irelond to know how the prior and his fellow monks were disposed in a matter which they have disclosed to him on the earl's behalf [for which see the following letter], the prior informs him that he is the earl's own to his utmost and finds his fellow monks well disposed to do what may please him, especially in that matter. So that they may be sure that they will not offend against the law of the church, which commands that no man of the church nor any bishop may alienate the church's goods without the pope's special licence and the chapter's consent, and in this matter [the bishop] of Durham may make a gift for his time but the confirmation of the chapter makes it perpetual, he therefore beseeches the earl to let the matter be known and discussed among men learned in the spiritual law, so that the prior and his fellow monks may have sufficient instruction in writing from them, by which they and their successors may be protected, avoiding all manner of displeasure and danger from ordinaries in future, as they fully trust he is the lord who loves St Cuthbert, the rights of his church and them, his ministers. In all other matters which the bearer of this will declare unto him, he beseeches him to be his good lord and show him his special favour.
Date: Durham, 13 January.
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f.110r-v   [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the chancellor of England), asking him to regard him favourably in these matters which he presents to him. First, where [the earl] of Warwick has recently sent to him to know whether he and his fellow monks are disposed to confirm [the bishop] of Durham's gift to him of Barnard Castle. The prior has written to him that he finds his fellow monks well disposed to what may please him. So that they may be safe and avoid offending against the law spiritual in particular, which commands that the goods of the church should not be alienated and that a bishop should not alienate immoveable goods without the pope's special leave and the chapter's consent, and in this case [the bishop's] gift alienates for his time but their confirmation would cause a perpetual alienation, he has therefore asked his lordship [the earl] to let the matter be known and discussed among men learned in the spiritual law, and for them to be informed whether they may safely do this or not. He therefore beseeches the chancellor to inquire into this matter and to send him his good counsel. [Concerning] another matter where his fellow monk, Thomas Caly, at the prior's great cost has endeavoured this last term to recover the money which the prior was compelled to pay to the queen a year ago, he beseeches him to inform him whether there is hope of recovery or not and how he shall be guided. The prior is informed that Richard Sutton' of Nottinghamshire will proceed in the plea he has against them which has been pending in suspense a long time for the church of Roddington. The prior is counselled by justice Danby and other learned men of his counsel to submit for arbitration (“compromytt”) to the archbishop of York, who asks him for £40 in the event he shall make an end to this matter. He desires his good advice whether he should put it to the archbishop or whether the chancellor might like to find any other more easeful means. If he thinks the archbishop will end the matter, then he beseeches him and [the earl] of Warwick to speak to the archbishop to reduce the sum, and to Richard Sutton to put him in fear that he may be willing to agree to a small sum, for it is not fitting that he should undo (“make unright”) what the chancellor's progenitor, Sir John lord Nevill', grandfather to the chancellor's father, laboured for their right in appropriating the said church.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.110v   [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Kirke, [monk of Durham and] master of Farne), whereas he is credibly informed that against the good rules of their religion, to the great slander of their house and his own person, he has received into the Monkhouse [par. Bamburgh] Robert Smyth' and his wife, with whom he has previously been held suspect, allowing him to make his forge and to engage in his craft suspiciously, causing a great murmur among the common people. Moreover, his talk is, as the prior is informed, that if John dies, the said woman will have his goods contrary to his profession. The prior therefore charges him to remove both of them from the same place without delay and henceforth to eschew entirely the woman's fellowship in all suspect places, so that she does not come to him or he to her except openly in the sight of the people, upon the pain due to him if he does the contrary, and to send him word speedily as to how he is disposed in this matter. Whereas, in support of the place and his relief, the prior sent his fellow [monk] to Coldingham for a time, he charges him to be prepared to receive him again and spend the goods of the place upon him rather than upon any such suspect persons, as is said.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.110v-111r   27 February [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Usburne, brother of the hospital of St Leonard, York), whereas he has asked the prior in writing to inform him in writing how he is disposed towards the chancellor with regards to the first vacancy of a prebend in the collegiate church of Howden, the prior informs him that he is disposed towards the chancellor as he has long been, in this case to grant him the presentation of the first vacancy in Howden at this time, in accordance with the form he declares to him, with a space therein in which the chancellor may put what name he likes. He has in mind to do this when he has certain knowledge of the vacancy of any prebend there, notwithstanding that [the bishop] of Durham has recently written to him for Mr John Marchall's prebend to be given to John Gysburne, and the archbishop wishes to have it also, he believes, for the said John. In this matter and others, he thinks to write to the chancellor and send him his writing and the presentation at the same time. If the messenger comes with certainty of the death of the said Mr John, he prays Thomas that the messenger might carry his letter with the presentation to his lord [the chancellor, see the following letter].
Date: Durham, 27 February.
Draft in: DCD Loc.IX: 16.
Digitised version

f.111r   4 March [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin and superscription: to the chancellor of England), informing him that he sends to him the presentation of the prebend in Howden which the late Mr John Marchall' had, in accordance with the chancellor's intent, as Thomas Usburne wrote to the prior, notwithstanding that [the bishop] of Durham recently wrote to him for John Gyssburn', the archbishop of York's receiver, to have the same prebend. His fellow monks applied themselves to his promotion to the said prebend, both for the good will and favour that John has for many years borne to the monastery of Durham and to satisfy the desire of the archbishop and [bishop]; the archbishop has said before that he will have a prebend in Howden and maintains that the prior promised him Mr John Marchall's prebend, which he denies, and after John Marchall's death recently sent his chaplain to ask that the presentation be put at the archbishop's disposal. Since the archbishop has in hand a power to treat between Richard Sutton of Nottinghamshire, esquire, and the prior [and convent ?] which has long been pending before the judges of Common Pleas in London and is brought to an issue for the right of the patronage of the church of Roddington, he fears that the archbishop will not be as tender a lord to him in this matter and others as he would be if he had had his wish in this said matter. The prior therefore beseeches him either to let him have the prebend at his disposal or else urge him by such means as he can devise to be his tender lord, and not put the prior to any great expense in this matter or others which he must have to do with the archbishop. The endowment (“corse”) of the prebend is not [worth] eight marks [a year ?], as he is informed, but the place is fair and newly made and that, he believes, causes the said John to desire it, to have his residence there in future. If the chancellor might have a prebend in his collation for a clerk of his, the prior would think it a good change (?exchange), but for God's sake when he sends the presentation to the archbishop, he should write to him as effectively as he thinks expedient in the matter abovesaid.
Date: Durham, 4 March.
Digitised version

f.111v   4 March [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to the archbishop of York), informing him that [the bishop] of Durham has recently written to him for the prebend which was Mr John Marchall's to be given to John Gyssburne. Mr Henry Gyllow told him afterwards that he had a writing from the archbishop to request the presentation thereof for his disposal. He asks the archbishop to spare him in this matter, inasmuch as the chancellor spoke to him and asked him for it three years ago, and the prior has promised it to him both verbally and in writing because of his many, pressing requests by his messengers for the same. Where the said Henry alleged a promise by the prior to the archbishop, he cannot remember that any man ever spoke to him to request it in his name, and he is very sorry he cannot, as he is obliged, fulfil his request at this time, but he trusts that he will conduct himself towards the archbishop hereafter such that he shall be his good lord. He has written to the chancellor about this matter, who, he trusts, will inform the archbishop about it.
Date: Durham, 4 March.

f.111v   14 May 1460
Commission by John Lilford, LL.D., vicar general of Lawrence, bishop of Durham, to John, prior of Durham, granting him full authority, in place of and on the authority of the bishop, to veil the honest woman, Joan Comedon' of Darlington, Durham diocese, and to receive a vow of chastity from her, along with other relevant and connected [matters].
Under the seal of his office.
Date: Auckland, 14 May 1460.
Digitised version

f.111v-112r   [?1462]
Notification by John, prior of Durham, having lately received the following letters of commission of Mr John Lilford, LL.D., vicar general of Lawrence, bishop of Durham
On the authority of this, on 19 January in the Galilee in Durham cathedral he received in due form of law a vow of continence and perpetual chastity from the said Alice, personally present there before him, and bestowed, delivered and conferred on her the veil, ring and mantle of new manner of life and perpetual widowhood, previously blessed by him with all the requisite solemnity, and performed what else was necessary and required de iure in this regard.
Date: Durham, “at the abovesaid day, place, month and year”
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxlvi-cccxlvii.
Digitised version

f.112r   17 March 1462
Notification by John, prior of Durham, having inspected the letters, found in his archives in Durham, of Richard, onetime bishop of Durham, which are sound and whole, neither effaced nor marred in any respect but entirely free from all fault and suspicion both in their tenor and seal, containing as follows:
Letter “Richard, by divine permission bishop of Durham etc.” [Probably one of the versions of the Convenit agreed between Bishop Poore and the community.]
Thomas, onetime bishop of Durham, ratified, approved and confirmed the abovesaid letters by his letters patent, which remain in the archives [? was 2.4.Pont.3, now missing, copied Cart. I f.75v-76r: Bishop Thomas Hatfield]. He therefore requests all whom the presents reach, once they have seen the presents, to preserve unimpaired this agreement which was thus, as aforementioned, entered into, had and confirmed, and to cause nothing prejudicial against the requirements and tenor thereof to the prior or monastery of Durham.
Date: Durham, 17 March 1461/2.
Digitised version

f.112r   31 March 1462
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued, namely, one for [removing] Richard Shirburne [monk of Durham] and the other for John Acly [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Coldingham.
Date: 31 March 1462.
Digitised version

f.112r-v   29 March 1462
Grant by John, prior of Durham, to Marion Huke of Durham, with the consent of his fellow monks, of one place or corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, lately held by Isabel Archer, provided that Marion enters the infirmary and remains there.
Date: Durham, 29 March 1462.
Digitised version

f.112v   2 April 1462
Grant by John, prior of Durham, to Elizabeth Batemanson', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, lately held by Joan Knayth'. She is to have what any brother or sister, staying outside the hospital, receives. The prior has granted her special licence to stay outside the infirmary in some respectable place for as long as her present husband is alive; after his death, she will enter the infirmary, to stay there thenceforward, receiving what any brother or sister, staying in the infirmary, receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that she keeps the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary. If she should commit adultery or fornication or marry again, or does not carry out the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary, with the exception of the said residence, he wills that she be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 2 April 1462.
Digitised version

f.112v   31 March - 1 April 1462
Memorandum that on 31 March 1462 one letter was issued for Richard Shirburn' [monk of Durham] to reside in the cell of Jarrow and on 1 April 1462 another letter for William Coveryngham [monk of Durham] to reside in the cell of Finchale.
Digitised version

f.112v-113r   [?1462]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Coventre), thanking him for his faithful heart towards the monastery of Durham, and for his special writing rightly about his trouble. Whereas it is desired in his writing that the prior intercede with the earl of Worcester for the restitution of Thomas' casket, with certain bulls and writings therein concerning the rights of the prior's place of Coldingham, he informs him that he has written to Mr John Segden, chaplain, for the king's writing to be directed to the pope, to be favourable in the prior's matters of plea, pending, undecided, in his gracious audience at Rome concerning Coldingham. He desires the said John and Thomas together to see the copy of the letter that Mr John Lax sent as an instruction, if it can be had, so that the king's writing may be made in accordance with it. By the bearer hereof, he is sending 13s 4d in gold as a simple reward at this time until there may be better.
Date: Durham, “etc.”.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.190.
Digitised version

f.113r   1462
Grant by John, prior of Durham, to Thomas Lee and his wife, Joan, with the consent of his fellow monks, of that place or corrody in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, which a certain woman (name blank) lately held there, vacant by the transfer of the same (blank) to the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them.
Date: Durham, (blank) 1462.
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f.113v   4 October [1462]
Memorandum that a quittance was made for the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne for the payment in full of a yearly pension of £9 <1>3s 4d owed to the prior and convent of Durham for the term of Michaelmas last past and received by the hand of John Kirke, monk of Farne Island, according to the form which is evident on f.8[r-v] of this book.
Date: 4 October 2 A. R. Edward IV.
Digitised version

f.113v   12 September 1462
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made for the provost of Hemingbourgh for 33s 4d for the term of Pentecost last past in part payment of a yearly pension of 5 marks owed to the prior and office of chamberlain, as evident on f.95[r] of this book.
Date: 12 September 1462.
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f.113v   [12 September 1462]
[Memorandum] that a similar quittance was issued to the rector of Walkington for 50s for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of 100s owed to the prior and office of chamberlain, as evident on f.95[r] of this book.
Date: “the same day and year”.
Digitised version

f.113v   [12 September 1462]
[Memorandum] that another quittance was made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, for 20s for the term of Pentecost last past in part payment of a yearly pension of 40s owed to the prior and office of chamberlain, as evident on f.8[r] of this book.
Date: “the same day, month and year”.
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f.113v-114r   15 September [?1462]
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Gilbert), stating that [he has learned] from the writing he recently sent him and the frequent reports of his fellow monk, John Pencher, that he had expended considerable effort, to the immeasurable indignation of the magnates and nobles of his nation, in the cause of his house of Coldingham; he thanks him for his fidelity, wishing to make satisfaction to him, as he can and should. He understands that out of reverence for St Cuthbert he wishes to go shortly to the Roman curia and to undertake the defence of the aforesaid cause there, when sufficient expenses have been provided for this. Otherwise, if this was not acceptable to the prior, having been recompensed for the efforts and other adversities which he sustained, and the expenses, by the messenger assigned by the prior for this purpose, he determined to send without delay his acts and writings which promote the right and defence of the said cause and to seek a rescript of what the prior selects. The prior rejoices in his writing since, fearing that there had been insufficient recompense to John Pencher, he will take care to supply what is wanting to Gilbert and his relation, Mr Archibald. He rejoices more in Gilbert's acts; in his judgement, the more often they are attacked, the more effective they are in defending his cause. He is gladdened especially by his plan to go to the curia ; if he remains there, the prior desires above all that, having his individual acts in the said cause with him [and] exhibiting there at the curia [? he should convey *] them to his proctor, Mr John Lax, an Englishman, LL.D. and the pope's secretary, and to his other fellow proctors, acting along with them in the said cause. Concerning the money to be delivered to him, he wishes to know what amount he seeks, to whom, when and where it should be paid, and he will take care to satisfy his wish once it has been made known to him.
Date: Durham, 15 September.
[* Verb, and possibly more, omitted.]
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.189-190.
Digitised version

f.114r   [?1462]
Language:   English
Supplication by William Merley, William Blande, Will[iam] Bettes, James Blande, John Morlond, Richard Choloner, John Walker, Christopher Brodde, Thomas Alderson', William Barker, Christopher Brown, Henry Clerke, Will[iam] Akers, Thomas Pygote, John Stapilton', John Marshall', Will[iam] Marshall', Will[iam] Dovfe, Robert Dicson', John Blaymyre, Edmund Pasvaunte of Darlington, in the name of all the parishioners, to John, prior of Durham, beseeching him, after duly considering how the chantry of Our Lady within the church of Darlington, belonging to his collation, has long stood vacant because it is so poor that no priest can live upon it without other help and relief, to have, with the consent of his chapter, Robert Clerke, priest, who is a man of good behaviour and well disposed to divine service, recommitted to the said chantry with the commodities belonging thereto of old. In the event [the bishop] of Durham does not grant the chantry within his manor of Darlington in augmentation of the said chantry, as other [bishops] have done previously, then they, his said bedesmen of their special alms, will make it sufficient for a priest to live upon during their lifetimes and, they trust, forevermore.
For the collation of Robert Clerke to the chantry of St Mary in the collegiate church of Darlington, dated 20 November 1462, see DCD Reg. IV, f.146v.
Digitised version

f.114r   30 November 1462
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (superscription: to Th[omas] Warde, [monk of Durham and] master of the cell of Jarrow), stating that he is sending to him for the purpose of walking about his fellow monk, John Ryton, whom he wishes to remain with him from his arrival for as long as pleasing to the prior. He is to treat him kindly and bestow his favour upon him.
Date: Durham, 30 November 1462.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xiii.
Digitised version

f.114r   [30 November 1462]
[Memorandum] that a letter of removal was issued in the common form for [removing] Richard Wrake [monk of Durham] from the cell of Jarrow to the monastery of Durham.
Date: “the same day and year”.
Digitised version

f.114r   14 January 1463
Memorandum that John, prior of Durham, appointed as his steward there John Pylkyngton, esquire, in the vills of Hemingbrough, Brackenholme, Woodhall, Hunsley and Drewton with their appurtenances, [who is] to receive the customary fees. He granted to him letters according to the common form, as evident on f.86[r-87v] preceding, [with the presents] to last at the will of the prior and his successors.
Date: 14 January 1462/3.
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f.114v   26 January 1463
Notification by John, prior of Durham, to all persons, especially to the tenants and men residing within the royal lordship of Hemingbrough, that he has granted to William Ryfen of Hemingbrough, his bailiff there, special authority to occupy, work and demise not only the lands and tenements of the late William Goldisburgh' but also any other lands and tenements pertaining to the said lordship which are presently not occupied or had come into the prior's hands by [writs of] cessavit per biennium, until the said tenants or their heirs without deception make full satisfaction to the prior for arrears, provided that the said William will be answerable yearly to the chamberlain of Durham for the ancient and customary farm of the said tenements and lands occupied or demised by him. He wills that this grant and the authority assigned to William are to last at his pleasure.
Date: Durham, 26 January 1462/3.
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f.114v   15 February 1463
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made for John Driffeld, rector of [Kirby] Sigston, concerning the payment of £6 13s 4d, by reason of the pension thereof, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas, as evident on f.95[r-v] of this book.
Date: 15 February 1462/3.
Digitised version

f.114v   [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], [to ?], thanking him for his labours for him and his fellow monks, especially for the keeping of the place of Holy Island. For food for men and horses he wills him in accordance with the poverty of the place to use it for his needs and not be wasteful. He desires him not to give favour or maintenance to John Garner against the prior [presumably of Holy Island] or any of his fellow monks, who have given him lawful warning to withdraw by St Cuthbert next [20 March], but rather to assist William Bele to take care of the church and cure of Holy Island.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
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f.114v   29 March 1463
Commission by John, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in York diocese, to John Fletcher, his sworn apparitor {there}, committing his authority to levy, collect and receive all and sundry Peter's pence owed or to be owed from any persons within his jurisdiction of Howden and Howdenshire, deputing and appointing him collector of the same pence to be collected and levied within the jurisdiction, as aforementioned, and commanding him to be answerable every year to the prior or his then official there for all such pence received or to be received by him and duly to make satisfaction for the same, as he is obliged, when suitably required by the prior or his official; with the presents to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 29 March 1463.
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f.115r   10 April 1463
Dispensation by John, prior of Durham, having recently inspected the letters of Pope John XXIII, which are whole and undamaged, not suspect or marred in any way, and sealed in the manner of the Roman curia, and remaining in the prior's archives in the monastery of Durham: letter by John, bishop, servant of the servants, etc. On the authority of this, he dispenses his fellow monk, Thomas Pikeryng, professed Benedictine, a discreet and prudent man, of legitimate birth, distinguished by many other virtues and, as is well-known, being in his twenty-second year, to have himself promoted to the priesthood at the times established by law by any bishop, having a grace from the apostolic see and willing to lay hands upon him, and thereafter to minister freely and lawfully in it, notwithstanding the aforesaid defect of his age, any apostolic constitutions, and other statutes and customs to the contrary.
Date: Durham, 10 April 1463.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxlviiii.
Digitised version

f.115r   15 April 1463
Memorandum that a letter of removal for [removing] Thomas Wrenne [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale was issued in the common form.
Date: 15 April 1463.
Digitised version

f.115r   15 December 1462
Memorandum that a quittance was made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, for 20s owed on Martinmas last past, in full payment of a yearly pension of 40s, as evident on f.8[r] of this book.
Date: 15 December 1462.
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f.115r   [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Ogill'), whereas he previously wrote to John Garner, who has long been priest of Holy Island, that he should remove out of his service by St Cuthbert last past [20 March], as he was lawfully warned by the prior [presumably of Holy Island] (as he can inform him when he speaks with him), for many grievous injuries and misrule which he continues to commit daily, to the dishonour of the prior of Durham and the harm of the prior [of Holy Island] and his fellow monks. The prior of Durham has recently written to him again about this, {but to no effect}. He beseeches him for a remedy, as he has sovereign power under the king and the privilege of the church of Durham, so that he has no cause to seek further for a remedy, since his behaviour is such that he must seek a remedy. He asks him to regard him favourably in this matter and all others.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.115r-v   [?1463]
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Garner'), whereas they have been familiar from of old and the prior trusts that he has given him cause to be [well] disposed towards him in those things which would result in his honour, and he is nevertheless evilly disposed [and] misruled, not only to the prior's dishonour but also to the great trouble, hindrance and hurt of the prior and his fellow monks of Holy Island, for this and other behaviour the prior [of Durham] therefore thinks he is not obliged to him. He charges him, upon the pain due for such [actions], to desist and quit the place, and to let no one else come there, as he has been spoken to and lawfully warned; it is better to do so than be constrained against his will, for unless the prior has his way, he proposes to complain to the greatest in this land, which will not be to John's advantage or honour.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.115v   12 April [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by J[ohn], p[rior] of D[urham]), (margin: to the chancellor of England [George Neville]), stating that a priest of the late lord of Kent * lately came to the prior, willing him on the chancellor's behalf to keep the pledge (“caucion”), that is the robes of his said good lord, which he put to the prior for a certain sum of money until the chancellor sends him word for the delivery thereof. The prior beseeches him to consider his great poverty and debts which, to his great distress, he may not pay, and, if he wills him to keep the aforesaid pledge and deliver it to him at his request, he asks that he be speedily paid the sum owed to him, that is, £32 18s, {for} which sum the aforesaid lord charged Robert Jonson to be bound to the prior in a bond and to deliver the pledge to him until such time as he pays the prior. The prior therefore must have prompt payment or else necessity will drive him to deliver the pledge to him and to take his money. As for the benefice for which he wrote to him, the man who was incumbent has resigned [in order to bring about] the promotion of his own chaplain, to whom the prior and his fellow monks are greatly obliged. He therefore beseeches the chancellor to excuse him. Concerning the money for which at various times the prior has written to him, since he as yet got very little, he beseeches him to provide an adequate remedy.
Date: “etc.”, 12 April.
* William Neville, earl of Kent, d. 9 January 1463.
Digitised version

f.115v-116r   15 May [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the farmer of Brantingham, {namely, Christopher Burgh'}), informing him that Robert Lucas has been with him since Christopher Burgh and the prior last parted, in whom (as in his speech) he finds no unkindnesss shown to Christopher, as he alleges. Nothwithstanding that the power which the warden [of Durham College Oxford ?] gave to Robert, concerning the sealing of a bond made before he went, has expired through Christopher's default [i.e. absence ?] (as he himself knows well), yet for the good affection Robert has towards Christopher and to avoid further labour and expenses on his part, he made the offer to the prior that, in the event Christopher will yet make the same bond to be sealed by those persons whose names are written and comprised therein, or else through their default will make a new bond for the same sum, to be sealed by four other persons such as Robert can think are as able and sufficient as Christopher, for his discharge within eight days after the delivery of this letter at Howden, before him and other sufficient witness (record), he will take upon himself at this time, through the prior's will and consent, to grant him his bargain for the term of three years, according to the form and tenor of the indentures thereupon made and duly to be sealed by Christopher on the one part. In the event this is not done within the said eight days, the prior charges him hereafter not to have any further dealings with the fruits and revenues of the church of Brantingham or Ellerker, upon the pain which may occur in future if he does the contrary.
Date: Durham, 15 May.
Digitised version

f.116r-v   [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the prior of Lytham), since, as he is reliably informed, John Lenche [or Leuche], lately parson of Appleby, resigned his said benefice into the hands of the ordinary, and is to have a pension of 16 marks for life from the same, without the consent of the prior and his fellow monks, and upon his resignation, Will[iam] Wernon, knight, took upon himself as patron to present Thomas Brown to the said church, proposing to exclude them and the prior of Lytham from the nomination and patronage of the church, against law and conscience, inasmuch as (as it is said) he had recently procured an inquisition by which he had made himself patron, [and] by virtue of this presentation, the said Thomas is unlawfully admitted and intruded in the said church; therefore, to preserve their rights and the prior of Lytham's in the said church, the prior of Durham commands him strictly, as he will answer to the prior and his fellow monks and avoid potential dangers, to come speedily, after having seen the presents and put aside all [his] other occupations, to prepare, with the most learned counsel he can get, to ride to the said church and make diligent inquiry of the truth and the present situation, and, if he thinks it expedient, to ride himself or to send with all haste to the university of Oxford to know for certain whether the nomination of the church granted to them has expired because three months have elapsed, and whether in order to preserve the priors' right they will defend the title given to them. Otherwise he must speedily ride to [the bishop] of Lincoln, wherever he is, and certify him of the situation, informing him that a great injury is being done to them by [the bishop] or his officers in admitting Thomas Brown without their consent and nomination. He is to beseech the bishop for an adequate remedy so that they have no cause for complaint or to seek help elsewhere. In the event he will easily grant him due reformation, he should remain there and otherwise ask him for [a writ of] ad melius inquirendum. Having obtained that, he may present at the prior's nomination Will[iam] Jonson, who, with the support of John Grysely, knight, will defend their rights, as he is informed, in the event the university have lost their title or will not pursue it further, for [the bishop] of Lincoln and his officers, if they are well informed, know well that the nomination of the said church belongs to the prior of Durham and the patronage to the prior of Lytham by various recoveries previously had at Westminster, as appears in certain writings thereupon, part of which he sends him by the bearer hereof. He informs him that it is not yet six months since they learned of the last vacancy of the said benefice, by the resignation of the aforesaid John Lenche, and therefore his nomination and the prior of Lytham's presentation may as yet remain in force. He should exert himself speedily in this matter to avoid other mischief which may arise and to save further expense, certifying the prior and his fellow monks speedily how he is getting on and doing in this matter, and how the last presentation he made is taking effect.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.117r   7 March [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to Robert Ogle, knight), recalling to him how, when the king was at Durham, Robert spoke to him to have still the tithes of Norhamshire for next year and [that] he would make satisfaction for the time past. The prior said again that if he would do so, he shall find him and his fellow monks more inclined to his purpose. He beseeches him to consider the great misfortunes and injuries which have recently happened to them, in the burning of their church, the loan of 400 marks to Queen Margaret, the losing of their bellmetal by sea, the stealing of their cattle by thieves from Tynedale, along with other great losses in the pleadings for Coldingham, Ruddington, Hylton and others, and their great necessity. Robert will provide a means how, where and when they shall be paid for the tithes for these past two years and, as for the old debt previously due, appoint a time and place when he or his counsel and the prior's may meet to agree the settlement of the same. By the bearer hereof, he is to send the prior an answer in writing as to how he is disposed in the said matters. He asks him to give credence to the bearer in what he shall relate to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 7 March.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.191.
Digitised version

f.117r   7 February 1463
Memorandum that one corrody (margin: in le Maison de dieu), vacant by the death of (blank), was granted to Robert Kilne [or Kilve] alias Jonson', with the fullness of his right.
Date: 7 {February} (over erasure) 1462/3.
Digitised version

f.117r   9 March 1464
[Memorandum] that another corrody was granted in le Maison de dieu to Robert Junor and Agnes, his wife, according to the common form.
Date: 9 March 1463/4.
Digitised version

f.117r-v   10 July [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin and superscription: to the earl of Warwick), whereas he has recently written to the prior, recalling a letter that the prior had sent him, promising him the first vacancy of the vicarage of Heighington, and how the prior had afterwards presented another man thereto and deferred Richard Knoblaw, whom the earl would have had. The earl therefore desires a presentation of some other benefice in the prior's gift of equivalent value to the promotion of the said priest. The prior informs him that within a short time after the said writing there was a great rumour in the parish of Heighington and other places thereabouts that the said Richard should be vicar there at the earl's gift who, with his scolding and chiding was ready to fight with the parishioners, inasmuch as various of them, complaining about his language, were fully determined for the parish to be made vacant. The prior understands also, both by common report and the relation of various notable persons, that the disposition of Richard was in no way befitting a curate, whereupon he complained to Thomas Colt, from whom he understood that the earl would have left him at liberty as to Richard's promotion and to please the earl by some other means. Moreover, he had a letter from the earl for another priest [to be presented] to the same vicarage, by which the prior understood that he would no longer have requested it for Richard. He has seen and heard of the unpriestly demeanour of Richard, so that it has always been against his conscience to help or promote him to any cure of souls, by which he would offend God and hurt his own conscience, which the prior trusts the earl would not want him to do. Having given due consideration to the aforementioned and to how the vicar who was the late incumbent resigned his benefice only for the promotion of his own chaplain, a man well disposed and suitable to [have] a cure, and would otherwise have never resigned this during his lifetime, and how it is now vacant through resignation and not death, as the prior supposed it would be when he promised the earl the next vacancy, he beseeches the earl to excuse him with regards to any promotion for Richard in the future, and to support him against all others who would hereafter ask him for such manner of men to be promoted to a benefice with cure, as the prior trusts he will. The prior and his fellow monks will pray for his prosperity and welfare.
Date: Durham, 10 July.
Digitised version

f.118r   22 July 1463
Mandate by John, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Mr Robert Wilson, B.Cn. & C.L., stating that, since Mr Thomas Portyngton, provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough of the said spirituality, is bound to render an account every year in his manse, before the prior or his deputy and the canons of the church, of all and sundry profits, revenues and income received and administered by him there, according to the tenor of the ordinance made in respect thereof, he therefore orders him to warn and cite, or cause to be thus warned and cited, at his dwelling house, before his acquaintances and friends, the said Thomas personally, if he can be found, or otherwise his proctor, if he left one there, to appear before the prior or his deputies, one or many, in his manse on Tuesday, namely 2 August next to come, to render on oath a full and faithful account for all such profits [etc.] received and administered by him for the period of his incumbency, and to do and receive what was just and what the ordinance requires. He is to take care on the above day and place duly to certify the prior or his deputy, along with [reciting] the tenor of the presents, as to how the present mandate has been executed.
Date: Durham, 22 July 1463.
Digitised version

f.118r-v   22 July 1463
Commission by John, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to his fellow monk, John Eden', Mr Robert Wilson, B.Cn. & C.L., and Richard Rakett, clerk, stating that, since, in accordance with the form and tenor of the ordinance of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, the then provost of the church is obliged to render on oath a full and faithful account of his administration every year in his manse there to the prior or his deputy of all and sundry profits, revenues and income of the church received and administered by him, as is clearly expressed in the same ordinance, the prior commits to them authority to audit the account of Mr Thomas Portyngton, the present provost, of all and sundry profits [etc.] of the church, received and administered by him by reason of his provostship for the period of his incumbency there, and moreover to allow, disallow, depute and amend it, and for legitimate reasons to sequestrate or cause to be sequestrated the profits [etc.], and to cite, warn and require the said provost to do and submit to the aforementioned, and, if he is rebellious, to compel him [to do this] by ecclesiastical censure, and to do and carry out what is necessary or appropriate in the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 22 July 1463.
Digitised version

f.118v   8 August [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Lord Montagu), informing him that he is sending him a clock, as he willed him to do, to Newcastle by a good man called John Stele, who has previously always been true and faithful to the lord and his progenitors, and to all others who have taken his part, as he shall know, and beseeching him to receive him so, and informing him that Stele has expended much labour this past week to set the clock in order for his pleasure. The prior understands that Humphrey Nevill' alleges quarrels against him; what he will do or say the prior does not know. Nevertheless, when the prior comes to lord Montagu, he will open his heart to him, recommending himself by the presents to his worthy lady, lord Montagu's wife.
Date: Bearpark, 8 August.
Digitised version

f.118v   20 September 1463
Memorandum that one corrody (margin: in le Maison de dieu), vacant by the death of Robert Hoton, was granted to Beatrice, his wife, with the fullness of his right.
Date: 20 September 1463.
Digitised version

f.118v   4 July 1463
Likewise, that another corrody, vacant by the death of Robert Watson, was granted to Janet (Geneta) his wife, according to the common form, as evident on f.15 at the beginning of [this] book [however, no grant of a corrody on f.15].
Date: 4 July 1463.
Digitised version

f.118v   8 October 1463
Memorandum that a quittance was issued for the mayor and community of Newcastle for £9 3s 4d, to be delivered to John Kirk, master of Farne, according to the common form previously written on f.8[r-v] in this book.
Date: 8 October 1463.
Digitised version

f.118v-119r   [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Coventee), thanking him for his zeal in furthering the prior's matters, and especially for his writing which he recently sent to him, informing him that Mr John Laxe only recently received his evidence for Coldingham. Concerning the £20 sent to John Laxe, Thomas says it never reached him because the banker of Rome would not receive the letters of Leonard Bonesignes. The prior marvels greatly that John should receive the evidence and not the money, inasmuch as it was delivered upon trust, with Thomas' will, consent and counsel, to the said Leonard and no other; Thomas was present at the delivery thereof and mentioned the same in the writing he sent to John, as the prior is reliably informed by John Belicyse, his servant. He also marvels that he has had no word from him until now from the time he sent the evidence and money to London, trusting Thomas to see to furthering this, and to be quickly informed in writing if this had happened otherwise. He requests him to learn from Leonard how the said money is being dealt with and also, by way of excusing the prior, to inform John in writing of how the matter stands, asking him to send the prior word speedily as to how his said matters are proceeding in the court, and the prior will afterwards see a means by which he shall be pleased for his labour.
(Postscript:) He prays him to give full credence to the bearer hereof who can inform him more fully of the prior's intent in the above matters.
Digitised version

f.119r-v   2 October [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the earl of Warwick), recalling to him how lately at his command the prior delivered to him £60 in part payment of half a tenth, granted to the king and previously received by the prior as collector thereof in Durham diocese, for which he has the earl's special warrant for his discharge. The king has nevertheless written to him for payment of 100 marks and more, to be made to Roger Thorneton', which, as the king understands, should remain in the prior's hands unpaid, as appears more fully in the king's writings, a copy of which he sends to the earl. The prior beseeches him to provide him with a speedy remedy and to procure a sufficient discharge of the entire receipt of the tenth, which amounts to the sum of £63 2s 3d, so that he shall not fall into a contempt and incur the king's indignation for disobeying his writing. As for the remainder of the same sum as yet unpaid to the earl, he requests that it might be postponed until such time as there was a due reckoning between them touching certain cattle received to the earl's use by Henry Fell, sometimes his man, as Coundell', his servant, can at all times report, if summoned.
Date: Durham, 2 October.
Digitised version

f.119v   20 October [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Stamford), informing him that Richard Spark, bearer hereof, was recently with him, who informed him that John Starke, vicar of Kirkby on Bain [Lincs.], would resign his benefice to him, if he might obtain the consent of the prior and his fellow monks to be presented thereto. The prior discussed with certain of his fellow monks and they were well-disposed ( “willy”) to Richard insofaras surety and sufficient means were found how the old debts due to Mr Richard Barton * for the pension of the same church might be paid, and also [to the prior of Stamford] for his time, if there were any in arrears, and surety found how he may hereafter be paid the said pension, inasmuch as at his last parting from the prior he wished no one to be presented to any benefice owing him a pension without his knowledge and consent. He is to to do his utmost that he may hereafter be paid the said pension and the arrears recovered, and to certify the prior speedily how he is labouring in this matter.
Date: Durham, 20 October.
* Prior of Stamford 1440-1462
See also f.122r below.
Digitised version

f.119v   20 October [?1463]
Mandate [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Lewyn [monk of Durham]), stating that, since he resolved he should be removed from his present place to the monastery [of Durham], he commands him quickly to direct his steps and remain there, until he has a further mandate from him, showing the presents to the prior of Stamford so that he provides him with transport and expenses.
Date: Durham, 20 October.
Digitised version

f.119v   15 September 1463
Memorandum that three quittances were issued according to the common form, one for the church of Hemingbrough, another for the church of Walkington, [and] another for the church of Welton [on] f.8 [a quittance for Welton appears on f.8r, for Walkington and Hemingbrough on f.7v].
Date: 15 September 1463.
Digitised version

f.120r   28 October 1463
Appointment by John, prior of Durham, of Mr William Seton, [monk of Durham], S.T.P., as prior or warden of [Durham] College Oxford, with authority to govern the college and all and sundry pertaining to it, both within and without, to regulate his fellow monks and secular scholars, and to correct the latter and, when required, to expel them at his discretion, with the advice of his fellow monks studying there; and commanding them to obey him as prior or warden in all the aforementioned pertaining to them.
Date: Durham, 28 October 1463.
Digitised version

f.120r   29 October [?1463]
Mandate [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Shirburne [monk of Durham]), marvelling that he is so prone to stir up dissent. As the prior has heard, he recently uttered opprobrious words to the master of the cell in which he is residing, that he considers him worthless, which he said in the presence of upright men and others. He is so arrogant that he dared to utter such insults to a man of venerable age, useful to the monastery and the greatest friend to the prior. His fellow monks consider him a spreader of discord nearly from first to last, with the result that his words are feared as incitements against peace and good behaviour. He is unable to restrain his tongue from serpentlike talk and shows himself a cruel beast, rather than a man. The prior therefore commands him henceforth to abstain from such talk and to conduct himself with moderation in his actions so that he does not incur greater indignation of his fellow monks, under the penalty prescribed.
Date: Durham, 29 October.
Digitised version

f.120r   29 October 1463
Memorandum that one quittance was issued for the church of Longbenton, according to the common form previously written [on] f.6[r-v] of this book.
Date: 29 October 1463.
Digitised version

f.120r
(Opening address of a letter:) <John, by divine permission prior etc.>
Digitised version

f.120r   1 December 1463
Quittance by John, prior of Durham, to Mr Thomas Beny, prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, for 13s 4d for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and the monastery of Durham from the prebendary of the said prebend and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 1 December 1463.
Digitised version

f.120v   2 November 1463
Memorandum that a letter was issued according to the usual form, as evident on f.3[r] of this book, for removing Thomas Lewyn' [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Wearmouth.
Date: 2 November 1463.
Digitised version

f.120v   [2 November 1463]
[Memorandum] that a similar letter was issued for the removal of William Pelton [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to the monastery of Durham in the due form.
Date: “the same day and place”.
Digitised version

f.120v   [21 January ?1464]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by J[ohn, prior of Durham]), (margin: to the earl of Warwick), recalling to him how at his special command he recently delivered to him £60 in part payment of half of a tenth which he received as collector thereof; for this and especially for the delivery thereof, as he is informed, he stands greatly in danger among the barons of the exchequer in London, incurring fines (“rennyng in the grene wax”) to his great discomfort and loss of goods, without the earl's help. He beseeches him to write or else to send by the bearer hereof to the said barons, informing them how the case stands, so that the prior may be utterly discharged by their authority of £63 2s 3d, of which he is accountable after his receipt as for the half tenth, and does not lose the goods of the monastery for non-payment of the same. As for the remainder of the said sum, after there is a due reckoning between the earl and prior, he will be disposed to please the earl, beseeching him to give credence to the bearer in such matters as he shall declare to him on the prior's behalf and to show the prior special favour.
Date: Durham, 21 January.
Digitised version

f.120v-121r   1 February 1464
Grant by John, prior of Durham, to Thomas Gresmer alias Cook, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of one corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Thomas Easby lately held'. He is to have what any brother or sister, staying outside the hospital, receives. The prior has granted him special licence to stay outside the infirmary in some respectable place for as long as his present wife is alive; after her death, he will enter the infirmary, to stay there thenceforward, receiving what any brother or sister staying in the infirmary receives in food, drink and other necessities, provided that he keeps the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary. If he should commit adultery or fornication or marry again, or does not carry out the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary, with the exception of the said residence, he wills that Thomas be deprived of all the abovementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 1 February 1463/4.
Digitised version

f.121r   [1 February 1464]
Letters testimonial by John, prior of Durham, stating that John Oterik of Greatham and Thomas Jonson thereof, Durham diocese, married men, of good and sound reputation, uttered a special vow, as they assert, of their own volition and after mature deliberation to offer themselves and to fight against the Turks and other enemies of the cross of Jesus Christ in defence of the Christian faith, in accordance with the plenary oath they took before the prior. With due and requisite instance they made entreaty to the prior to sign them with the sign of the cross in witness of their praiseworthy intent and to grant to them his letters testimonial. In assenting to their wishes as just and legitimate, he caused them, present in person in the said church on 24 January 1463/4, and on bended knee by the shrine of St Cuthbert requesting the sign of the cross be made on their breasts, to be signed and branded (“aduri”) with the sign of the cross, on the right side of their breasts, by his fellow monk, William Byrden, almoner of Durham. The prior requests all the faithful who see the presents to treat them benevolently when, thus signed with the cross, as aforementioned, they should in travelling come to them or their area, and not to inflict anything prejudicial on them in respect to their goods, property or persons, or allow others to do so.
Present: Mr William Seton, S.T.P., Richard Byllyngham, chancellor of the monastery of Durham, John Riton, his fellow monk, John Barbur, John Swan, clerks, Thomas Rowlande and many others.
Date: Durham, “the abovesaid day, place, month and year”.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccxlix-cccl.
Digitised version

f.121r-v   January [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the earl of Westmorland), stating that the earl has made an assignment of £13, to be received from the bailiff of Tudhoe for certain wheat and malt taken by the earl's steward for the expenses of his household, as the steward's book of expenses testifies, for which the prior has not nor can be satisfied by the bailiff, to whom the earl assigned the prior for payment. The prior beseeches him to provide a prompt and adequate remedy on the advice of his counsel as to when and how the prior may be satisfied of the said money, considering the great expenses they [the prior and monastery] daily bear, to their great hindrance.
Date: Durham, (blank) January.
Digitised version

f.121v
<Memorandum that a letter of the chantry of St Mary, Darlington was granted to Robert Clerke, priest, is recorded in the great register [on] f. (blank)>.
Digitised version

f.121v   [20 November 1462]
Memorandum that the collation of the chantry of St Mary in the collegiate church of Darlington has been previously written in the great register [on] f [146v of Reg. IV].
Digitised version

f.121v   
Memorandum that one letter for Thomas Man of Bishop Auckland was issued, according to the form for John Otrike and Thomas Jonson, as evident on the other side of [this] folio.
Digitised version

f.121v   18 February [?1464]
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to Mr Robert Wilson), informing him that a little while ago he committed to John Flecher, apparitor of his jurisdiction in Howden and Howdenshire, authority to collect, levy and receive all and sundry Peter's pence, owed or to be owed, from any persons within his jursidiction, provided that he makes satisfaction for and is duly answerable every year to the prior or his then official for all such pence received or to be received. But in fact, as the prior has learned more fully from trustworthy report, he was not being diligent in this collection, as proper and due; he therefore wills Robert Wilson to cause the said John to be summoned before him and to demand a faithful account from him. He is to cause his commission, given to him by the prior for various reasons, to be revoked and to substitute Mr Henry Hustwhates as collector, if this seems expedient to him.
Date: Durham, 18 February.
Digitised version

f.121v   18 February 1464
Memorandum that a quittance was issued for Brinkburn [cf. f.69r above].
Date: 18 February 1463/4.
Digitised version

f.121v   1463
Memorandum that a letter of the infirmary [outside the abbey gate Durham] was issued for the wife of William Potter for life, according to the common form, as evident within 1463.
Digitised version

f.122r   November [?1463]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to the prior of Stamford), informing him how Ric[hard] Spark, bearer hereof, was recently with him, who informed him that John Starke, vicar of Kirkby on Bain [Lincs.], would resign his benefice to him if he might get the consent of the prior and his fellow monks to be presented thereto. The prior discussed this with certain of his fellow monks and they were well-disposed ( “willy”) to Richard, insofaras sufficient surety and means were found how the old debt due to Mr Richard Barton * for a pension of the same church might be paid, and also to the prior of Stamford for his time, if there were any arrears, and surety found how [he] may be paid the same pension hereafter. Therefore, as the prior of Stamford desired as his last parting from the prior of Durham, he is to exert himself in these matters in keeping with the information of Eswhier [?], master to the aforesaid Richard, who, as the prior of Durham understands, will be a comfort to him in this matter. He is speedily to certify the prior of Durham in writing of this.
Date: Durham, (blank) November
* Prior of Stamford 1440-62.
See also f.119v above.
Digitised version

f.122r   17 March [?1464]
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr R[obert] Wilson), stating that Philip, the bearer hereof, one of the executors of the late Robert Beamond, recently came to him at Durham and notified him that Hugh Cliderow had died, who was indebted not only to the prior but to many others, as the prior is informed by the trustworthy report of Philip, and he rejoices not a little because on the prior's authority Wilson placed under sequestration the goods of the late Hugh in Howden and Howdenshire. He wishes him therefore to make a commission to Mr William Benson, vicar of Brantingham, Adam Haymond, prebendary of Hemingbrough, and Robert Lucas to administer the goods placed under his sequestration [and] to put them up for sale so that the debts are paid to the prior and others, in accordance with what reason demands. They are to render a faithful account to him when required.
Date: Durham, 17 March.
Digitised version

f.122r-v   16 March [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by John, prior of Durham), (margin: to Robert Lucas), informing him that he has written to Mr Robert Wilson to commission him, the vicar of Brantingham and Mr Adam Hamond to administer the goods of the late Hugh Cliderow, who, as the prior is informed, died intestate and whose goods are sequestrated on the authority of his ordinary power in Howden and Howdenshire. He prays him to take on the administration of the said goods to make satisfaction to the prior and many others for the goods owed to them by the said Hugh as far as the said sequestrated goods will extend. He desires him to speak on his behalf to the aforesaid vicar and Adam Haymond to undertake to help him in the same matter to the same end.
Date: Durham, 16 March.
Digitised version

f.122v   23 February [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Willeswik, vicar of Fishlake), whereas in clearing ( “dischargyng”) his conscience he cannot occupy his benefice and wishes to resign and Thomas Fairbarn be presented thereto, the prior and his fellow monks are well disposed to this, if he provides them with sufficient knowledge of the good behaviour of the said Thomas by such persons as have experience of his behaviour and good disposition, and especially if John Feryby writes to the prior to this effect to declare Thomas' good conduct.
Date: Durham, 23 February.
Digitised version

f.122v   12 April 1464
Memorandum that a letter was issued for [removing] William Coveryngham [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to the monastery [of Durham].
Date: 12 April 1464.
Digitised version

f.122v-123r   17 August [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Midelton), recalling how he, alleging himself one of the executors of John Midelton, knight, previously paid the prior £4 to redeem a gown and a sallett laid in pledge for a greater sum lent to him, and how the prior, from good affection and by reason of the promise he made to the prior to keep him uninjured at all times with respect to the prior's lady, his [i.e., the late John Midelton's] wife, and all others, delivered to him the said pledge. She alleges a great injury [has been] done to her by this delivery and imputes to the prior great unkindness, which he regrets. He prays him in keeping his promise to provide a means how she may be satisfied so that she neither blames nor troubles him in future for the said goods. If she does so, the prior will declare at all times before any estate whatsoever that he never intended any fraud or guile. If, God forbid, he did that, the prior advises him for his own honour to provide speedily for a due reformation.
Date: Durham, 17 August.
Digitised version

f.123r   [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the lady Nevill'), recalling how his lord, her husband, before his death had £20 from the prior by way of a loan under a sufficient pledge, which at her request the prior has put in safe keeping and would do so for longer if he might comfortably bear it, but, considering the great charges and loss of goods he has recently sustained, his present situation is such that he must be promptly paid the money or else raise a loan (“make chevesaunce”) with the pledge in the best way he can. He beseeches her to provide a means how he may be speedily paid the money in his great need, or else allow him to sell the pledge or put it in coin, satisfying her of the surplus, if any, and that he not be deluded by her servants, as he has been previously by the promises they make and do not keep.
Digitised version

f.123r   [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Stamford), informing him that as for the pension of nine marks payable to the abbot of Crowland, he has had discussion with Danby, the justice, Guy Fairfax and Richard Pygote of the prior's counsel, showing them such evidence as he has thereof, and, as they can see no lawful means how it might be recovered without some error being found in the evidence, they are fully determined to have discussion together and duly inspect and examine the same at greater leisure. He wishes him to be prepared to wait with such evidence as he will use until they come by him before Michaelmas term next to come and to have discussion with them about the said matter, taking their good advice.
Digitised version

f.123r   1 September 1464
Memorandum that two letters were issued, one for the removal of William Rodburne [monk of Durham] from Finchale to the monastery [of Durham] and the other for the removal of William Pelton [monk of Durham] from the monastery to the cell of Finchale.
Date: 1 September 1464.
Digitised version

f.123r-v   20 September [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], [to [John Burne *], archdeacon of Northumberland], whereas he and his fellow monks understand to their great joy that he is newly promoted to the archdeaconry of Northumberland, as a result of which it is presumed that the vicarage of Norham belonging to their patronage, of which he was lately vicar, is now vacant after the common law, as he knows well, without a special licence having been previously procured from the court of Rome, of which they have no knowledge, he prays him, to avoid any danger that may occur in future, to certify him and his fellow monks, by the bearer hereof before the next synod ( “Sene”), of his plurality, if he has any sufficient [licence] to hold the said two benefices together; otherwise, the prior informs him that they are utterly determined to present another man thereto to preserve their right and avoid a lapse.
Date: Durham, 20 September.
* See DCD Reg. IV, f.144v.
Digitised version

f.123v   1 October [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Ogle), thanking him for his favours to the monastery of Durham and especially to the master of Farne; whereas on the last day of truce, held at the chapel of Cornhill[-on-Tweed], two bills were given to the Scottish lords, one for the restitution of Coldingham with £422 to the exact value of certain goods and cattle taken from the same place by Sir Patrick Home and his fellowship, and another bill to have redress for various notable goods taken from Farne by John Coke, William Sewe, John Byfote and William Cloke of Pittenweem, as is specified in the said bill to the value of £57, as appears piecemeal in certain schedules made thereupon, of which the prior sends him true copies. He prays him to show his affection and assistance therein, and at the next march-day to make entreaty unto the deputies for redress and an answer to the said bills.
Date: 1 October.
Printed: J. Raine, The History and Antiquities of North Durham (1852), p.v.
Digitised version

f.123v-124r   [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter (margin: by the earl of Northumberland), (margin: to Alexander Lound and Robert Sheffeld, junior), whereas he is informed that Thomas Fo{l}ton' (partly over erasure) of Ellerker has without title of right presumptuously taken away from the chapel of Ellerker an image of Our Lady, and without the authority, licence or consent of the curate and parishioners there has fixed and put it upon a cross of a tree standing in a common ground bordering and separating the parish of Ellerker from the parish of South Cave, which within a short time is likely to cause great dissent and disagreement between the curates and parishioners of both the said towns and others who will take part with them for the offerings which out of devotion come thereto, therefore, to avoid further trouble and disagreement, he prays him to arrange speedily for the image to be restored to the said chapel by Thomas, charging him in his name to do so upon the pain that may occur thereupon if he does the contrary.
Date: Heaton, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.124r   30 September [?1464]
Language:   English
Letter [by John, prior of Durham], (margin: to the chancellor of England), whereas his fellow monks, resident in certain cells belonging to the monastery of Durham, and other tenants and servants of his cannot be allowed to put up for sale or sell their grains and other goods in the common market without being constrained to pay a toll, of which they have been utterly discharged by a sufficient writing previously granted to the prior and monastery and confirmed by the present king, he beseeches him to provide the prior, his cells, tenants and servants with an adequate remedy, as he thinks most appropriate, to preserve their rights, and to send down the king's stay (“dormont”) de non molestando to be directed generally to all his temporal officers who are trying to trouble the prior and his tenants and servants in requesting the said toll for the selling of corn. He is to give credence to the bearer hereof in all matters which he shall disclose to him on the prior's behalf, and to show his favour to the prior and his fellow monks.
Date: Durham, 30 September.
Digitised version

A former tab, interleaved between f.123v and 124r
( labelled:) “Richard prior”

f.124v   21 January 1465
(Margin: “void”) [evidently a wrongly worded version of the grant on f.124v-125r]
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Thomas Brown of Durham, his servant, with the consent of his fellow monks, of one place or corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Isabel, widow of Richard Heworth', lately held. He is to receive in food, drink and other necessities what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside the infirmary, receives.
Date: Durham, 21 January 1464/5.
Digitised version

f.124v   21 January 1465
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Th[omas] Roland of Durham, his servant, with the consent of his fellow monks, of the corrody in le Maison de dieu which Isabel, widow of Richard Heworth', lately held, for his lifetime. He is to to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside le Maison de dieu, receives.
Date: Durham, 21 January 1464/5.
Digitised version

f.124v-125r   21 January 1465
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Thomas Brown of Durham, his servant, with the consent of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Isabel, widow of Richard Heworth', lately held, for his lifetime. He is to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside the infirmary, receives. The prior grants him special licence to stay outside the infirmary in some respectable place for as long as his present wife is alive. After her death, without the prior's or his successor's fuller grace, he will enter the infirmary and henceforth remain there. He is to receive in food, drinks and other necessities what any brother or sister thereof, staying within the infirmary, receives, provided that Thomas keeps all the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary. If he should commit adultery or fornication or marry again, or not carry out the statutes [etc.] of the infirmary, with the exception of the said residence, then the prior wills that he be deprived in perpetuity of all the abovesaid.
Date: Durham, 21 January 1464/5.
Digitised version

f.125r   5 March 1465
Memorandum that one quittance was issued to John Dryffeld, rector of [Kirby] Sigston, for a yearly pension of 10 marks, owed for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past and customarily paid to the prior and the communar of Durham, as evident on f.95[r-v] of this book.
Date: 5 March 1464/5.
Digitised version

f.125r   15 March 1465
Memorandum that one letter was issued to John Lilburne [monk of Durham] to stay in the cell of Holy Island, and another for Robert Wardale [monk of Durham] to remove him from the cell to the monastery of Durham.
Date: 15 March 1464/5.
Digitised version

f.125r-v   15 March 1465
Citation and Mandate by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in [North]Allerton and Allertonshire, to William Goodeson, his sworn apparitor, stating that, since he found contained in the findings of the ordinary visitation of his immediate predecessor, lately carried out by his commisssaries in the church of [West] Rounton in his jurisdiction, that a certain Richard Nicson, rector of the said church, who was keeping with him in [his] house a certain Emmote Wilson, his public and well-known concubine, has been enjoined by the same commissaries judicially by decree: first, to remove her from his house and cohabitation within the fortnight following, under penalty of the income of his benefice being sequestrated, secondly, since he neglected to obey this decree within the same term thus assigned, he was again enjoined by them to remove her within the following six days, under penalty of being deprived of his benefice. He has neither done nor intends to do this, but, as the prior is informed, stubbornly continues in this damnable sin to the destruction of his soul, having scorned the keys of the church, to the contempt of God and the church and as a pernicious example to others. Unwilling to tolerate the aforementioned any further, the prior commands him, in virtue of the obedience [owing him] and under penalty of contempt, to cite or cause to be cited the aforesaid Richard to appear before Mr William Laybron', B.Cn. & C.L., official of his jurisdiction and specially deputed commissary in the church of [North]Allerton on Wednesday next before Palm Sunday next to come [3 April] to declare reasonable or just cause, if any, why the income and profits of the said benefice [should not] be sequestrated and why the prior or his aforesaid official should not write to a superior judge, who has [the right of] institution and deprivation in the church of [West] Rounton, or to his officials about his deprivation. The prior commits full authority by the presents to the official to perform these and other [deeds], and to respond to the other articles concerning the salvation of his soul, to be objected to him ex officio, and to do and receive what is consonant to reason. Informing the same rector that whether he shall have appeared on the said day and place before the aforesaid official or not, he [Laybron] will proceed against him, as it should have been proceeded of right, notwithstanding his contumacy. Moreover, he [Goodeson] is to cite or cause to be cited the said Emmotte similarly to appear on the abovesaid day and place before the same official concerning such incontinence and to respond personally to the other articles concerning the wellbeing of her soul, to be objected to her ex officio, and to obey right. Along with [reciting] the tenor of the presents, he is duly to certify the abovesaid official on the said day and place as to how he has executed this mandate.
Date: Durham, 15 March 1464/5.
Digitised version

f.125v-126r   [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the countess of Warwick and Salisbury), whereas she has written to him for the next vacancy of a chantry, occupied by John Partrik, in Durham St Margaret for the promotion of Richard Knoblaw, he is sorry that he cannot satisfy her desire, because soon after the confirmation of his election, [the bishop] of Durham, who has hitherto been his tender lord in matters concerning the well-being of the monastery, pressingly desired from him the next vacancy thereof for a chaplain of his. To avoid [incurring] his great indignation, the prior made a special grant at that time to him, from which he may not deviate without his consent. He has made entreaty to the bishop for his consent by all reasonable means in order to please her, but the bishop plainly informed him that he expects him to keep his promise. The prior therefore requests her pardon and to be excused because he cannot fulfil her wish, as he would wish, in order to keep his promise.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
(Postscript:) Beseeching her to give credence to the bringer hereof in such things as he has learned after this letter was written.
Digitised version

f.126r   16 April [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the earl of Warwick), whereas, as the prior understands from his letters received on Easter eve last past, the earl has desired £34 by way of a tenth, as he understands, assigned to the earl by the king, he is to understand that the prior hitherto had no authority from [the bishop] of Durham to levy the said tenth. Nevertheless, considering his good zeal and gracious lordship shown to the prior and his fellow monks, [the prior] has put himself in great danger for his sake and made shift of that much money for his pleasure at this time, which he sends to him by Robert of Wardell, his feedman. He asks to have a sufficient discharge and quittance in the exchequer in London of the said sum and the remainder, as yet unpaid, when he sends it to him. He hopes to find him favourable in such matters as the said Robert and another of his servants will relate to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 16 April.
Digitised version

f.126r-v   28 April 1465
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of Robert Ebchestr' [monk of Durham], as prior or warden of [Durham] College Oxford, with authority to govern the college and all and sundry pertaining to it, both within and without, to regulate his fellow monks and secular scholars, and to correct the latter and, when required, to expel them at his discretion, with the advice of his fellow monks studying there; and commanding them to obey him as prior or warden in all the aforementioned pertaining to them.
Date: Durham, 28 April 1465.
Digitised version

f.126v   [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [incomplete ?] [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Danby and others), informing them that William Corneford, mercer of Durham, previously assured him that a servant of his should have delivered £30 to one of them on the prior's behalf, to be paid in the exchequer in London in part payment of a tenth previously due. Whether the servant has done so, in accordance with his master's promise, neither he nor the prior as yet knows.
(Followed by a blank space, approximately a quarter of a page long.)
Digitised version

f.126v   1 June 1465
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of John Eden [monk of Durham], as prior of the cell of Holy Island, committing to him its care and administration in both spiritualities and temporalities, until he has another mandate from the prior; commanding all and sundry concerned to be answerable to him and obey him as prior in all pertaining to them, as was the custom with the other priors of the cell. He is to render annually a faithful account to the prior for all receipts and expenses of the cell.
Date: Durham, 1 June 1465.
Digitised version

f.126v   [1 June 1465]
Memorandum that one letter of removal was issued to Richard Shirburne [monk of Durham], to remove him from Finchale to the monastery of Durham, and another to Thomas Genor [monk of Durham], to remove him from the monastery to the cell of Finchale.
Date: “the same day, month and year”.
Digitised version

f.127r   11 June 1465
Memorandum of oath that on 11 June 1465 Richard Nicson, rector of [West] Rounton, York diocese, appeared personally before Richard, prior of Durham, sitting tribunally in his chapel, William Conyers, esquire, and Robert Bartram, notary public by apostolic authority, concerning [his] incontinence with a certain Margaret Wilkynson and swore a bodily oath on the Gospels that he will henceforth not know her carnally nor have any conversation with her in secret or suspect places, under penalty of being deprived of his benefice, imposed on him by the prior and willingly undertaken by him there.
Digitised version

f.127r   24 June [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to lord Scales), whereas he has written to the prior to show favour to Marion Glover and her friends, according to right and conscience, in such matters as they have dealings with him, as his lordship is informed, he is to understand the truth of the matter for which they labour: the prior has a good and profitable tenant in Westoe called Huchenson, a diligent labourer and trustworthy payer, who since the death of his mother has occupied a portion of land belonging to the prior and his fellow monks, and as the prior is given to understand, Marion with her counsellors is endeavouring by various subtle means to have him utterly discharged of his said holding, in order that her son might succeed in the same after him, against right and conscience. He leaves the matter wholly to the decision of his lordship to decide therein on the good advice of his counsel. Whatever he wills him to do therein, he is entirely ready to carry out his command.
Date: Durham, 24 June.
Digitised version

f.127r   31 July 1465
Memorandum that one letter of removal was issued in the common form for [removing] Robert Knowte [monk of Durham] from Stamford to the monastery of Durham, another for [removing] William Gervesse [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Wearmouth, and a third for [removing] Thomas Lewyn [monk of Durham] from Wearmouth to Stamford.
Date: 31 July 1465.
Digitised version

f.127r   1 August 1465
Memorandum that a letter of removal was issued in the customary form for [removing] John Riton [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Farne.
Date: 1 August 1465.
Digitised version

f.127r   24 August 1465
Memorandum that two letters were issued according to the form previously used, one for the removal of Robert Byllingham [monk of Durham] from the principal monastery to Holy Island and the other for the recall of John Lilborne [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to the monastery.
Date: 24 August 1465.
Digitised version

f.127v   7 September 1465
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Agnes Miles, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Matilda Emyldon lately held, for the term of her life, provided that she enters the infirmary to stay there henceforward.
Date: Durham, 7 September 1465.
Digitised version

f.127v   7 October [1465]
Memorandum that a quittance was made for the mayor and community of Newcastle-upon[-Tyne] in full payment of £9 3s 4d, owed to the prior and chapter of Durham by reason of a certain yearly pension, according to the form recorded more fully on f.8[r-v] of this book.
Date: 7 October 5 A. R. Edward IV.
Digitised version

f.127v   31 December 1465
Memorandum that one quittance was made for the master and scholars of Balliol Hall Oxford, for 10s, owed to the prior and chapter of Durham by reason of a yearly pension for the church of Longbenton.
Date: 31 December 1465.
Digitised version

f.127v   29 October 1465
(Memorandum of) petition that on 29 October 1465 a certain David Bell of the parish of Guisborough publicly confessed in the vestry of the church of Durham before Thomas Caly, subprior, and various monks of Durham, and also the notary and witnesses below, that he, on a sudden impulse and in his own defence, wounded in the head and killed a certain Lawrence Soureby of the said parish, and contritely and humbly sought and obtained the sanctuary of the church of Durham.
Present: Robert Bartram, notary public by apostolic authority, Robert Flecher', Thomas Heringer', William Scott and others.
Digitised version

f.128r   13 November [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the chancellor of England), stating that [the bishop] of Durham is disposed to thwart, vex and trouble the prior and his fellow monks in certain liberties and privileges, granted to them by various popes, kings and bishops of Durham after the foundation of the church of Durham, as his fellow monk, William Byrden, bearer hereof, can inform him at greater length. He asks him to give credence to William and to the evidence he has to show him, and to grant them assistance and assign some of his counsel to examine the evidence at length and advise them thereafter, in confirmation of the rights of the monastery.
Date: Durham, 13 November.
Digitised version

f.128r   [13 November ?1465]
[Memorandum] that on the same day and place a similar letter, with all the necessary changes made, was issued to the earl of Warwick.
Digitised version

f.128r-v   [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the earl of Northumberland), inasmuch as [the bishop] of Durham is strangely determined to obstruct him and his fellow monks in their freedoms and liberties, granted to them from of old, as his fellow monk, William Byrden, bearer hereof, can declare to him at greater length. He beseeches him to give credence to William and to the evidence he shows him for the rights of the monastery, and to show them his favour and assistance.
Date: “etc. as above”.
Digitised version

f.128v   [?1465]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Danby, justice), inasmuch as he understands by the privilege of their foundation and of a convenit that he and his fellow monks stand so free of all property held of them by knight service that neither [the bishop] of Durham nor any other man ought to have any prerogative over any of their land. He therefore now sends him a copy of certain evidence of theirs concerning this matter and also of the said convenit, asking him to examine and study it at length and to certify the facts in time of need, that the rights and liberties of the monastery do not suffer any injury.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.128v   5 December 1465
Quittance by Richard, prior of Durham, to the abbot and convent of Newminster near Morpeth, for 13s 4d, received on the date of the presents, for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past, by reason of a certain yearly pension owed to the prior and monastery of Durham for the church of Stannington and customarily paid at the said terms.
Date: Durham, 5 December 1465.
Digitised version

f.128v-129r   [?1465]
Letter (margin: by the earl of Warwick}, (margin: to the pope), stating that in the northern parts of the realm of England there is the venerable church of Durham, devoted to God, where many regulars of the Benedictine order, living under a prior according to the rule, devotedly and continuously serve God. The prior and convent thereof formerly suffered grave and manifest injuries through the deceit and innate evil of the ambitious clerks of the realm of Scotland who, seeking those things which are theirs, through false suggestions unjustly arranged for the prior and convent to be deprived of the barony of Coldingham and the priory therein, St Andrews diocese, and caused the prior of Coldingham and his fellow monks there, who are customarily removeable at the prior's will, to be violently expelled, without order of law and contrary to the gifts of the kings of Scotland and the confirmations of the popes. He entreats him that holy religion be supported and the presumptuous boldness of the aforesaid clerks be punished, so that others learn how serious it is to deceive the holy see by false suggestions. If this offence, to the common injury of all here, should go unpunished, he cannot begin to say how much evil will come forth. Men here are prepared to take up arms to defend the liberty of St Cuthbert, their special patron, no less than to protect the country.
Date: “etc.”
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.206-207.
Digitised version

f.129r   13 January 1466
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Alice Tyndell', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Alice Warde lately held, for the term of her life.
Date: Durham, 13 January 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.129r   17 January 1466
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since he has resolved that Thomas Smyth', scholar, son of Nicholas Smyth' of Brompton near Northallerton [and] bearer hereof, should be admitted to a place, presently vacant, in [Durham] College Oxford, he commands him to examine Thomas, when he should come to him, and, if found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stand in the way, to receive him favourably as scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 17 January 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.129r   23 January 1466
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Alice Herryson', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Gillian Herryson', her mother, lately held, for the term of her life, provided that Alice enters the infirmary and remains there henceforward.
Date: Durham, 23 January 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.129r   27 January 1466
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (Margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since he has resolved that Humfrey Herwell', son of Alexander Herwell of Bishop Auckland, scholar [and] bearer of the presents, should be admitted to a place, presently vacant, in the college, he commands him to examine Humfrey when he should come to him and, if he is found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive him favourably as a scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 27 January 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.129v-130r   27 January 1466
Bond by Alexander Herwell' in co. Durham, yeoman, to Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, for £20, to be paid to the prior and chapter or their certain attorney at Martinmas next; he binds himself, his heirs and executors, and all his goods and chattels, wherever found, to pay this.
Sealed with his seal.
Date: 27 January 1465/6.
(Margin: bond concerning the same admission [of Humfrey Herwell' above])
(with)
Condition of the bond that if Humfrey Herwell', son of the obligor written below [and] recently admitted scholar of Durham College Oxford, conducts himself in a praiseworthy manner towards the warden and fellows thereof, and is obedient to their canonical and lawful mandates, and keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs thereof and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them injury, then the present bond will be null; otherwise, it should remain in force.
Digitised version

f.130r   18 February 1466
Grant by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham, to Alice Bell', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody, now vacant, in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near St Giles hospital of Kepier, which a certain John Marchall' lately held, for her lifetime. She is to receive in food, drink and other necessities what any other brother or sister thereof, staying in the hospital {or outside} (over erasure), receives. {He has granted to her special licence to stay in any nearby respectable place outside the hospital, to be chosen according to her judgement, for as long as she is alive}; provided that she keeps all the statutes [etc.] of the hospital. If she does not carry out the statutes [etc.] or commits fornication or adultery or marries again, then she, transgressing thus, is to be deprived of all the aforesaid in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 18 February 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.130r   8 March 1466
Memorandum that a letter was issued to the warden of Durham College Oxford, to examine and admit Humfrey Pollerd as scholar thereof, for whom William Pollerd, his father, has bound himself [to pay] the sum of £20, in the form and with the conditions written on the preceding folio, and has sealed the bond in the form etc.
Date: 8 March 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.130r-v   18 March 1466
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Holy Island), stating that, to his distress he has learned from the frequent report of trustworthy persons of several [matters] worthy of amendment, which are written below and should be referred to him, that Robert Knowte and Robert Billyngham, monks [of Durham], who are staying with him, having put aside the observance of the rule, are not afraid to use linen garments and bedding, to the perversion of their order. Frequenting public taverns and suspect places, they imprudently play games and prohibited sports in the sight of the people, against the statutes and observances of the rule, furnishing an occasion for them to complain about them daily with powerful oaths and reproaches. The prior marvels that this is through the toleration, negligence and inactivity of the prior of Holy Island. In accordance with the ruling position that he has undertaken, and the ordinances and statutes of the holy fathers, especially Mr William Ebchestre, his predecessor [as prior of Durham], and wishing to curb their temerity in these and other presumptuous transgressions, lest they embolden other fellow monks to perpetrate similar deeds, he commands the prior of Holy Island to admonish and persuade the aforesaid fellow monks (whom the prior of Durham similarly admonishes and persuades and, in virtue of the obedience [owing to him] and under the penalties imposed in the statutes of their order against such transgressors, enjoins), within a month of the presents being inspected and declared to the prior of Holy Island and to them: to wear linsey-woolsey garments without delay, according to the former, approved custom of the monastery, having spurned the linen garments which they used until now, and, applying themselves to their books and pious works, to abstain from such excesses, games and sports (whereby talk can arise among the people), at least in taverns and suspect places, and not to go anywhere outside the area and enclosures of his priory, or more accurately, the bounds and limits assigned by him to them for their recreation for the purpose of walking about, without having sought and obtained the prior of Holy Island's licence, unless a greater need or common benefit demands it, under the aforesaid penalties to be inflicted against the transgressor. He is to know that he will be blamed if the aforementioned or similar [transgressions] henceforth go unpunished through his toleration, neglect or inactivity.
Date: Durham, 18 March 1465/6.
Digitised version

f.130v-131r   [18 March 1466]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Billyngham [monk of Durham and proctor for the papal curia]), informing him that Hugh Spaldyng was with him on 17 March last past and gave him to understand that he brought certain writings from Richard and left them in London with Th[omas] Coventry to be sent speedily to the prior, which have not yet arrived. The prior therefore cannot send him any answer until he has sure knowledge of his intention. Nevertheless he prays him to be diligent in the meantime in speedily expediting all his matters pending in the court, bringing them to a final sentence, and to come home as soon as God will allow, considering that he and his fellow monks are in great despair and worry about the great cost that they have hitherto incurred thereupon and have little comfort in return. As soon as the prior learns the purport of his writing, he will have discussion with his fellow monks and send him an answer in accordance with the same, which will be pleasing to him.
Date: Durham, “the day aforesaid” 1465.
Digitised version

f.131r-v   31 March [?1466]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the chancellor of England), informing him how on Thursday night last past after ten o'clock, [the bishop] of Durham, with his sheriff and household, for various reasons secretly came to the city of Durham. His sudden and unseasonable arrival caused the citizens there, as men half distracted, hastily to start up and assemble together in a great number, who were likely to have committed affray but for the grace of God and good counsel, as the bearer here{of} can inform him at greater length, to whom the prior beseeches him to give credence in this and all other matters he will declare to him on the prior's behalf. On the next morning, from the time that the prior and his fellow monks had done their duty and received him into the cathedral, the prior for various considerations invited him to dinner, and at the instance of various persons there present more than at the prior's, as he understood, he came to dinner and had pleasant conversation with him. Nevertheless, the matter of the controversy (“travers”) between him and the prior, which by their common assent was put to the decision and final determination of the chancellor, was not discussed at that time, but wholly depends on the chancellor in a like form as they were submitted for arbitration (“compromytt'”), from which the prior will never vary, notwithstanding that he has been urged and advised to the contrary by various means. He beseeches the chancellor to give a direction which by his wisdom and from the inspection of their evidence can be thought most expedient for declaring truth and right and having a final accord between the parties.
Date: 31 March.
Digitised version

f.131v-132r   22 May [?1466]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the chancellor of England), inasmuch as he understands from the writing of Mr William Poteman, his official in York, that for the promotion of his chaplain, Mr Edmund Mynskip, lately parson of All Saints York, the chancellor intends to prefer him to an office in Beverley which is more acceptable to Edmund. So that he and his fellow monks can do him service in granting him a presentation of the said church, with a vacancy for a chaplain of his to be preferred thereto at his nomination, he informs the chancellor that after conferring with his fellow monks, he has persuaded them for various considerations to be well disposed to do anything hereafter which may please him in this matter or any other. The prior sends to him, with the consent of his fellow monks, a presentation for the said church in the desired form, trusting him to name and admit to the benefice a person pleasing to God and favourable to them and their affairs. If any offence has been committed against God and the law in granting the presentation in the aforesaid form, may the chancellor dispense them therein and certify them speedily of his name for their acts, considering that they were not accustomed to grant such presentations previously and would not have done so now except to please the chancellor.
Date: Durham, 22 May “etc”.
Digitised version

f.132r   23 June 1466
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to John Stele, cantor, his servant and Agnes, his natural and legitimate daughter, with the unanimous consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, which the same John had and still has from the gift and grant of William, the prior's predecessor, for the term of their lives and that of the survivor of them. He grants them special licence to stay outside the hospital in some respectable place for as long as they are alive or one of them is alive. They are to receive in food, drink and other necessities what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside, receives, provided that they keep all the statutes [etc.] of the hospital. If they do not keep the statutes [etc.], with the exception of the aforesaid residence, or commit fornication or adultery or marry again, they, and the one of them thus transgressing, will be deprived of all the aforesaid in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 23 June 1466.
Digitised version

f.132r-v   2 September 1466
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to John Porter, with the consent of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier which a certain Thomas Lee and Joan, his wife, lately held, vacant through their deaths, for the term of John's life. He is to receive in food, drink and other necessaries what any brother or sister, staying within or outside the hospital, receives, provided that he keeps all the statutes [etc.] of the hospital. If he does not do so or commits fornication or adultery or marries again, he is to be deprived of all the aforementioned in perpetuity. The prior grants him special licence for life to stay in some respectable place outside the hospital.
Date: Durham, 2 September 1466.
Digitised version

f.132v   4 September 1466
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued, one for [removing] John Ryton [monk of Durham] from the house of Farne to Finchale priory and the other for [removing] William Pelton' [monk of Durham] from Finchale priory to the house of Farne.
Date: 4 September 1466.
Digitised version

f.132v   1 October 1466
Memorandum that two letters were issued according to the common form, one for the removal of W[illiam] Jarvray [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to the cell of St Leonard's Stamford, and the other for the removal of Thomas Lewyn' [monk of Durham] from the said cell of Stamford to the said cell of Wearmouth.
Date: 1 October 1466.
Digitised version

f.132v   14 November 1466
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made in the common form to Mr Thomas Beny, prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith in the collegiate church of Howden, concerning the receipt and payment of 13s 4d, owed on account of a pension due for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past and customarily paid by the prebendary thereof, as is evident in the present register etc.
Date: 14 November 1466.
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f.133r   15 November 1466
Memorandum that three quittances were made, one for the rector of Brantingham for 66s 8d owed for the term of Martinmas last past, in full payment of ten marks, the second for the rector of Walkington for 50s for the same term in full payment of a pension of 100s, and the third for the vicar of the church of Welton for 20s for the same term in full payment of 40s owed to the chamberlain of Durham.
Date: 15 November 1466.
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f.133r   17 February 1467
Memorandum that two letters were issued in the common form, one for the removal of Robert Billingham [monk of Durham] from the cell of Holy Island to the cell of Lytham, and the other for the removal of John Roose [monk of Durham] from the cell of Lytham to the cell of Holy Island.
Date: 17 February 1466/7.
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f.133r   [?1467]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by the king [Edward IV]), (margin: to the bishop of Durham), whereas he has been informed that there is a certain disagreement between him and the prior and convent of Durham, concerning certain privileges and customs to which he lays claim and claims to have good, sufficient and lawful title, as they do likewise, he requests him to refrain from and cease all actions, quarrels and demands both by himself and his officers until the king by his learned counsel may comprehend the right and title of the prior and convent by their evidences concerning the same, which his said counsel will examine. He trusts the bishop will not fail in this.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccx.
Digitised version

f.133r   [?1467]
Mandate [by the prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since he resolved that Roger Midelton, son of the late Geoffrey Midelton, [and] scholar and bearer of the presents, should be admitted to a place, presently vacant, in [Durham] College Oxford, he commands him to examine Roger when he should come to him, and if he is found suitable and nothing canonical or contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive him favourably as a scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath. He asks him to direct and regulate him and his property to his honour, advantage and benefit and to admit him favourably into his protection. Appropriate satisfaction will be made to him for the efforts he expended on him in this regard.
Digitised version

f.133v   15 May 1467
Memorandum that Th[omas] Genour, monk of Durham, was appointed to the office of cellarer of Finchale. He had letters testimonial in the common form for his appointment, as evident on the preceding f.97[r] of this book.
Date: 15 May 1467.
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f.133v   15 May 1467
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued, one for Th[omas] Pelton' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to Wearmouth and the other for Robert West [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to the monastery of Durham.
Date: 15 May 1467.
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f.133v   23 July 1467
Memorandum that Thomas Hexham [monk of Durham] was appointed as master or keeper of the cell of Jarrow; he obtained letters testimonial in the customary form for this appointment, as evident on f.2[r] of this book.
Date: 23 July 1467.
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f.133v   30 July 1467
Memorandum that four letters of removal were issued in the customary form, one for [removing] John Kirke [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Finchale, the second for [removing] John Both [monk of Durham] from Finchale to Jarrow, the third for [removing] Richard Blakwell' [monk of Durham] from Finchale to Stamford, and the fourth for [removing] William Gervesse [monk of Durham] from Stamford to Finchale.
Date: 30 July 1467.
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f.133v   26 August 1467
Memorandum that three quittances were made according to the common form, one for Mr Thomas Portyngton, provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, for 33s 4d, the second for Mr Edmund Mynskirpe, rector of the church of Walkington, for 50s, and the third for Thomas Rudee, vicar of the church of Welton, for 20s for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of greater sums.
Date: 26 August 1467.
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f.133v-134r   26 August 1467
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Agnes, widow of Richard Smyth', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate [Durham], which the aforesaid Richard lately held, for the term of her life. She is to stay continually within the infirmary, and to receive in food, drink and other necessities of life what any brother or sister staying within the infirmary receives, provided that Agnes keeps all the statutes [etc.]. If she does not do so or commits fornication or adultery or marries again, then the prior wills that she be deprived of all the aforesaid in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 26 August 1467.
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f.134r   20 September [?1467]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Peter de Mellinis), thanking him for the favour shown to him, his fellow monks, the monastery of Durham and especially his fellow monk, Richard Billingham, factor of the monastery, at the time of his infirmity; the prior is indebted to him for this and his other innumerable kindnesses. Although he is at present not able to make worthy recompense in this regard, neverthless by unanimous consent he bestows [on him] 40s annually by way of a fee, although a small one, to be received yearly, with the prayers of the monastery, for defending his causes there for as long as he does so. He entreats him, although the expenses of the suit in the prior's case are doubtful and unknown to him, to lend assistance to his said fellow monk in every lawful case when necessary and, if the case requires, at his discretion to be bound on behalf of the prior and monastery for an appropriate and adequate sum, lest for want of money the proceeding be delayed, in a bank or elsewhere, knowing that the prior would speedily have him and any of his [associates] released and protected from such a bond, {if it is made}, and from any injury to follow thereupon.
Date: Durham, 20 September.
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f.134r-v   21 September [?1467]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the archbishop of York), beseeching him to continue as their protector in all kinds of matters concerning the prior, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham, and especially, after fully examining their evidence, previously exhibited to him, and other evidence which his fellow monk, the bearer hereof, has to show him, to be their good and gracious judge in all matters now resting upon his judgement between [the bishop] of Durham and the prior and his fellow monks, so that after deliberation he gives a final judgement therein, which by his own wisdom and the good advice of Richard Pygote, his faithful friend, who is fully acquainted with their evidence, can be thought most honourable and appropriate to long preserve the right of every man having an interest therein.
Date: Durham, 21 September.
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f.134v   12 September 1467
Memorandum that two letters of confraternity were issued in the common form, one for Mr Peter de Mellinis, proctor of causes in the Roman curia, and the other for Denise Mody, widow of Gateshead.
Date: 12 September 1467.
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f.134v   29 September 1467
Memorandum that in the prior's great chapel, after Henry Wilyamson, natural and legitimate son of John Wilyamson' of Blacktoft in the county of Howden, was diligently examined in reading, construing and singing by the prior [of Durham] and certain of his fellow monks and found suitable, he was admitted as a scholar of Durham College Oxford, in accordance with the statutes and customs thereof, under a bond of £20 made by his father, with the condition that he will conduct himself well and keep the said statutes.
Date: 29 September 1467.
Digitised version

f.134v   4 October [?1467]
Memorandum that a letter was issued in the common form, as above, to admit as scholar of the said college, in accordance with the ordinances and statutes thereof, William Garthop', son of Richard Barthop of Barmby [on the Marsh, E. R. Yorks.], if he is previously found suitable by examination, for whom his father bound himself for £20, to be paid on a similar condition, as evident above.
Date: 4 October “in the abovesaid year”.
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f.135r   1 October [?1467]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Richard Scarburgh' etc.), informing him that concerning the chamber which he occupies in [Durham] College Oxford, in which he desires to have estate for his lifetime under their common seal, the prior has declared his desires to his fellow monks in their chapter house and, for various great reasons moving them to the contrary, he cannot persuade them to be inclined to his wish. If the prior should make a grant against their will, they would greatly complain and impute unkindness to him, and, as he knows well, he cannot be made sure by the prior's grant only. After due consideration to the great expenses he has incurred in the same chamber for his own comfort, it is the will of the prior and his fellow monks that he continue to occupy it, paying farm therefore such as he and the warden can reasonably agree upon; no one else is to put him from there unless he or his [associates] commit a greater offence in future, which the prior trusts will never be [the case].
Date: Durham, 1 October.
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f.135r-v   [?1467]
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: <to Thomas Pikering> (erased), {to a certain fellow monk} (over erasure)), stating that he was disturbed to hear that although he wore a religious habit, he refuses to observe the monastic life and appropriate behaviour since, contrary to the rule of the said religion and his own position and honour, at times when he should be devoting himself to his books and learning, for which he had been sent to Oxford University from special grace and favour, he runs around the streets and vennels of that town at will, against the will of his warden, and is not afraid to frequent the house of a certain common prostitute, with whom he is held suspect in many ways, and also the houses of lay persons and suspect places, in squandering the goods of the college and outside [goods], to such an extent that, as is asserted, he has scarcely any clothing or bedding left. He is subject to such great need at present that without the support of his friends he probably would never say that he would rise up again. Wishing to curb his transgressions, lest the prior be blamed if the aformentioned or perhaps worse [misdeeds] go uncorrected through his negligence or inactivity, he commands him, in virtue of the obedience [owing him] and under the penalties imposed in the statutes of their order against such transgressors, not to go to the house of the said suspect woman or consort with her, devoting himself more to sacred learning, nor to go alone without the warden's licence beyond the bounds of the college to public taverns or places which can easily give rise to suspicion, but desist henceforth from illicit wanderings, and to conform to the behaviour of his fellow monks living there. If he should observe these mandates without further compulsion, he will find the prior and others dear and near to him, all the readier to help him should need arise; but if the prior is compelled, although unwillingly, to apply an appropriate remedy to these and his many other, still hidden transgressions, such that he is afraid to perpetrate similar enormities, he will inflict a worthy punishment on him as a transgressor of religion. He should place confidence in the bearer of the presents in the other matters he is to declare to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: “etc.”
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccli-ccclii.
Digitised version

f.135v-136r   [?1467]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of Durham College [Oxford]), stating that he has recently heard from the report of trustworthy persons that his fellow monk, {N[omen] N[omen]} (over erasure), is leading a dissolute life under his rule, since, going around the streets of the university of Oxford daily, he continues to frequent at will the house of a certain prostitute living incontinently, as is asserted, to whom he wickedly is attached, and also public taverns and suspect places, at least at suspect times, to the destruction of his soul and the contempt of religion and manifest scandal to the college. The prior marvels that the warden negligently tolerated such [misdeeds] to be perpetrated without any coercion and concealed from the prior what had been perpetrated. Wishing to oppose such misdeeds boldly committed against the observance of the rule, the monk's own reputation and honour, which the prior wishes to preserve intact, he imposed, in the letters he sent to him, abstinence from all the aforementioned illicit [acts] under the grave penalties threatened to him. The prior therefore requires him to admonish his fellow monk to abstain from all the aforementioned prohibited to him, pay more diligent attention to his books and learning, amend his behaviour, avoid profane places prohibited to him and not go alone outside the bounds of the college without seeking and obtaining the warden's licence. If the monk acts otherwise or disdains to obey the monitions, the warden is to take care duly to certify the prior speedily so that he can proceed against him in accordance with the ordinances and statutes of their order.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.136r   [?1467]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Knowte [monk of Durham at Farne]), whereas he is given to understand recently that, contrary to the statutes and ordinance of their religion, he puts aside his coarse garments (“stamynz”) and daily wears linen undergarments (“sarkis” ), and often takes a boat and rows to the land as he pleases, without licence asked of or granted by the master; what his disposition or behaviour is at such times is unknown to the master. Moreover, when they come over the water together for his recreation, he leaves the master's company, against his will, and takes himself as he pleases to other places among suspect persons, with whom he is much talked of and deemed to misbehave, to the great slander of their religion and harm to his own soul. The prior charges him, as he will avoid the grievous penalties ordained against all such unruly people of their order, henceforth not to use any linen sarks, not to go beyond the bounds of the cell unless licence has been requested and obtained from the master, and, whenever he and the master come to land together, not to leave his company without his permission but remain with him, so that they may each attest to the other's good conduct.
Date: “etc.”
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f.136v   5 June 1467
Collation by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to William Barton', chaplain, of the chantry at the altar of St Thomas the martyr in the collegiate church of Howden, York diocese, vacant by the death of John Cobbe, last chaplain thereof.
Date: Durham, 5 June 1467.
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f.136v   5 April 1468
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since he resolved that James Wedall' of Durham diocese, scholar [and] bearer of the presents, should be admitted to a place, presently vacant, in [Durham] College Oxford, he commands him to examine him when he should come in person to him and his place, and if he is found suitable and nothing contrary to the college statutes stands in the way, to receive him favourably as a scholar thereof, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 5 April 1468.
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f.136v   5 April 1468
Bond by Robert Sotheren', chaplain, Richard Rakett and William Litster, literatus (or literati) of Durham diocese, to Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, for £20, to be paid to the prior and chapter or their certain attorney at Martinmas next to come. They bind themselves, their heirs and executors, and all their goods and chattels, wherever found, to pay this.
Sealed with their seals.
Date: 5 April 1468.
(Margin: the bond made for the said James)
Condition of the bond: that if James Wedall', to be admitted as scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, conducts himself well and faithfully towards the warden and fellow monks thereof, obeys their canonical and lawful mandates and keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs, and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them any injury, then the present bond will be null; otherwise, it should remain in force.
Digitised version

f.136v-137r   21 April 1468
Grant by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham, to Alice, formerly widow of William Bell', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that same corrody previously granted to her in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near St Giles hospital of Kepier, which John Marchall' formerly held, for the term of her life, notwithstanding that she rashly and unexpectedly has had recourse to a second marriage, de facto although not de iure, as she asserts, contrary to the prior's previous grant to her. She is to receive annually in food and drink what any brother or sister, in the hospital or staying outside, receives or should receive. He has granted her special licence to remain in some respectable place to be chosen outside the hospital, provided she keeps all the statutes [etc.]. If she does not do so or commits fornication or adultery or contracts a third marriage, then she, thus transgressing, will be deprived of all the aforesaid in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 21 April 1468.
Margin: renewal of a corrody previously granted to Alice, widow of William Bell'.
Digitised version

f.137r   12 June 1468
Proxy by Richard, prior of Durham, to the presidents of the provincial chapter of Benedictines in England or their commissaries or lieutenants, appointing his fellow monk, Robert Ebchastre, B.Th., warden of Durham College Oxford, as his proctor [etc.] at the provincial chapter to be held at Northampton on Monday, 4 July next to come; granting him general authority and special mandate to appear on the prior's behalf before them or their commissaries, to swear that the alleged causes of his absence and impediment are true, to treat and come to an agreement with them or their commissaries and the other prelates there with respect to what might be ordered there, and to do and carry out all else necessary or appropriate with regard to the aforementioned, even if it requires a more special mandate, since the prior, hindered by various difficult and legitimate causes, is unable to be present in person.
Date: Durham, 12 June 1468.
(Note:) The proxy of the prior of Durham to appear in the provincial chapter to be held at Northampton is written above, as evident in the preceding writing.
Digitised version

f.137v   23 May 1468
Collation by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Mr John Rede, B.Dec., of the chantry of St Thomas the martyr in the collegiate church of Howden, York diocese, vacant by the resignation, freely made to and admitted by the prior, of William Barton', chaplain, last keeper thereof.
Date: Durham, 23 May 1468.
Digitised version

f.137v   29 June 1468
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Joan, widow of the late John Barbur, with the consent of his fellow monks, of that corrody in Le Meason de dieu which the same John Barbur held in his lifetime, for the term of her life. She is to receive what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside, receives.
Date: Durham, 29 June 1468.
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f.137v-138r   29 June 1468
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to John Buteler, his servant, with the common assent of his fellow monks, of that corrody which Alice Wadisford, now deceased, lately held and possessed in the hospital of Witton [Gilbert], for his lifetime.
Date: Durham, 29 June 1468.
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f.138r   [?1468]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Carlisle), whereas he understands that he is determined for various reasons moving his conscience to summon home to his monastery Richard Langcake, vicar of Bedlington, which was given to him by virtue of a capacity procured in the court of Rome, or else to cause him to renounce the rights and duties which he claims to have within the monastery of Carlisle as a brother thereof, he prays him, for various reasons which will be more fully declared to him in future, to be his good and gracious father therein, and to put off the matter and allow him peaceably to enjoy his benefice with other rights in a similar fashion as before until Michaelmas next and after that to deal with him as he thinks best and most appropriate to preserve his religion.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.138r   30 June 1468
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued in the common form, customary in such matters, one for [removing] John Riton [monk of Durham] from the cell of Farne Island to Wearmouth and the other for [removing] William Pelton' [monk of Durham] from Wearmouth to the cell of Farne Island.
Date: 30 June 1468.
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f.138v   28 July [?1468]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Robert Portyngton etc.), informing him that Mr Hatteclyff, the king's secretary, has recently written to him, desiring the prior and his fellow monks to appoint Robert their general attorney in the exchequer in London. At his request especially and out of the affection and trust they have in him, they grant this to him by common assent, with the fee belonging thereto from of old. He prays him to undertake this, and be diligent and faithful in all times of need in all matters spiritual and temporal which concern them and the monastery of Durham, with the cells pertaining thereto.
Date: 28 July.
Digitised version

f.138v   2 October 1468
Memorandum that a quittance was made to the mayor and community of Newcastle[-upon-Tyne] concerning the full payment of £9 3s 4d, owed to the prior and chapter of Durham by reason of a certain yearly pension, according to the form recorded on f.8[r-v] of this book.
Date: 2 October 1468.
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f.138v   17 October 1468
Bond by Richard Bell', prior of Durham, to Richard Rakett, clerk of Durham, for £26 13s 4d, to be paid in equal portions to the same Richard or his certain attorney at St Peter ad vincula [1 August] and Martinmas 1469.
Sealed with his seal.
Date: 17 October 1468.
Digitised version

f.138v   15 November & 31 December 1468
Memorandum that two quittances were made, dated 15 November 1468, one for Mr Th[omas] Portyngton, provost of Hemingbrough, for 33s 4d for the term of Martinmas, and the second for Mr Edmund Mynskipp', rector of the church of Walkington, for 50s, owed for the same term, and the third, dated 31 December in the above year, for the master and scholars of Balliol Hall Oxford, for 10s.
Digitised version

f.139r   7 November 1468
Licence by Richard, prior of Durham, to his fellow monks, William Youdale and William Law, to hear each other's confessions and those of their fellow monks and other religious dwelling in [Durham] College Oxford, and to absolve them, with the absolving of grave faults reserved to the prior or his special deputy, with the presents to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 7 November 1468.
Digitised version

f.139r-v   10 November [?1468]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Peter de Millinis), stating that experience has proven him an intimate friend to the prior, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham, since in all [their] affairs at Rome', not by dint of their merits but rather by Peter's long-standing and highly regarded benevolence, the prior hopes to report a glorious triumph over their enemies.
The prior thanks him for this and for his industry concerning the depositing of the common seal of the monastery in time of need [in exchange] for a certain amount of money received to expedite their cause, which is pending. He entreats him, although the prior has been tardy and remiss in redeeming the same seal thus deposited, to have mercy on him, lest such a lengthy delay (which could be said to be of divine rather than human origin because of the bodily infirmity of his fellow monk, Richard Billyngham, his former nuncio) be displeasing to him or injurious to the prior and monastery. The prior intended to have sent Richard to him with a little money, but in afflicting him God arranged otherwise.
In making provision for a remedy to preserve his favour and indemnity and that of the prior's other benefactors, he has caused 300 ducats [? c. £60] to be deposited over the exchange in the Medici Bank in London for redeeming the said seal and bearing all other [charges], [which is] to be delivered to him and Mr William Clayton' with all possible haste. The prior hopes that this money, as far as it will go, will be applied to redeeming the seal and paying debts, by which he is greatly burdened, and also speedily to expedite his cause.
He has appointed them anew as his proctors, separately and together, in Richard's presence or absence, to perform these and other matters. He sends to him by the aforesaid bank the yearly fee of 40s previously promised to him for the year past. If any [money] for pursuing the said cause remains unpaid since the arrival of Richard in England, he will at once make provision to repay this, after this has been fully made known to him.
The prior is burdened by such great and unaccustomed tenths, new impositions and other pleas, extortions and robberies, by reason of which the monastery is so impoverished at present that it will not rise again without God's grace and his help. He therefore beseeches him to act prudently from now on (as previously) to expedite his cause speedily and favourably.
He asks him to inform the pope how the archbishop of Cologne inhumanely treated Richard, the prior's nuncio, on his return, imprisoning him for the pretended debts of King Henry and before his release from custody wickedly extorting from the prior 100 marks, with expenses, so that at Peter's request the pope provides the prior with an appropriate remedy for repaying the said sum and canonically punishes the archbishop, lest his damnable deed, if uncorrected, be an example to others.
The prior recently received three briefs, with a letter of sequestration of the revenues of the barony of Coldingham, under the pope's authority, which he dare not present to the king of Scotland and the others to whom they are addressed for fear of death and the perils of travelling, without having previously obtained a safe conduct (the next half line erased, with space-fillers written over the erasure) and royal licence. To obtain his help and safe conduct, he sent supplicatory letters to the king by a certain gentleman, allegedly an esquire, of the duke of Burgundy, who [the gentleman] promised to respond to the prior, but the prior so far has had no response.
He has not yet seen two other instruments which were procured about various sentences and were to be sent to the prior by the next messenger, as Mr William wrote earlier, at which the prior marvels. {He does not at present write about the former} (over erasure).
Date: Durham, 10 November.
Digitised version

f.139v-140v   10 November [?1468]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Clayton'), thanking him for his efforts and favour towards him, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham, and asking him not to take it as a sign of displeasure that they have hitherto been so slow in paying and preserving him from the loss of such sums of money for which he is bound on their behalf in the court of Rome. The reason for this, as the prior wrote to him previously, is this: dan Richard Billingham [monk of Durham], whom they thought to have again appointed as their special messenger to him (as he has been before) lies grievously sick, awaiting the mercy of God, to whom they have looked daily for his amendment. As he has not yet allowed this to be had, they have raised a loan ( “made chevesaunce”) of 300 ducats [? c. £60] over the exchange to be deposited in the Medici bank in London to content the same bank in Bruges and to be speedily conveyed to him and Mr Peter (Perys) de Mellinis, their special proctors, for redeeming their common seal, with his indemnity also to be kept, and for paying other expenses which pertain to them in the court of Rome, as far as the said amount will extend, at their discretion. He asks him to accept it with thanks at this time so that they do not incur any great danger or loss of goods for their long delay, considering the above cause, along with the other insupportable charges imposed now even more than previously. If there is any other payment pertaining to them since Richard left him and came home, they will make provision for that as soon as they have sure knowledge of it, so that he and all others who act for them will be satisfied and free from loss.
He also sends to them, separately and together, a new proxy under their common seal, asking him to use and execute it in a similar manner as he has done before.
Moreover, he is to understand that they have received three briefs with a letter of sequestration under the authority of the pope, which as hitherto they dare not take upon themselves for various, weighty reasons to present to the king and other lords to whom they are addressed within the realm of Scotland, without his special licence of safe conduct. For this and for the king's support and favour in this regard, they have recently sent supplicatory letters with a gentleman of the duke of Burgundy, who has promised to work diligently to expedite this and speedily bring an answer in return.
Concerning the two instruments that should have come to them, as his last writing mentions, they have no word of them, at which they marvel.
Moreover, they are presently so overburdenend, what with tenths, new impositions and other prests made to the king, and what with temporal and spiritual pleas, and other great loss of goods by way of extortion and robbery, the monastery in time is likely to be so far in debt that without God's grace and his support and that of other good friends of the said court, it will not in many years hereafter be in as good a state as it has been within these few years. He asks him to remind the pope how the archbishop of Cologne has distrained Richard for the pretended debts of King Henry and compelled the prior to pay 100 marks, with expenses, before he might be put at liberty, beseeching the pope to provide the prior with some remedy so that he might have restitution and for the archbishop to be punished for his damnable deeds as an example to all others; otherwise, it will prevent the prior and all others from pursuing any matter in the said court unless he is duly corrected.
Date: Durham, 10 November.
Digitised version

f.140v-141r   24 November [?1468]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Burgh), thanking him for his letter, lately delivered by Mr William Laborne, where he gives praise and thanks to the prior and his fellow monks for his admission into their [con]fraternity and prayers, without, as he says, any cause or occasion given on his part. The prior marvels that he would so write, considering that when he and his other fellow monks were staying and studying in the university of Oxford, he was their faithful friend, and bestowed on them and especially the prior his good will and advice in all their affairs at that time; for this and all his previous kindness they are obliged by way of recompense to make him a partner of their prayers. Whereas William Staneley [or Staveley], the prior's good friend, has asked the prior and his fellow monks to grant a confirmation of an annuity of ten marks, lately granted to William by [the bishop] of Durham, as the prior is given to understand, the prior must ask him to excuse them for various considerations persuading them otherwise. Had it been a temporal office accustomed to be confirmed from of old, he would have found them well disposed, not only in that but in any other thing they may lawfully do for his promotion. The prior therefore beseeches him, in the event he learns that William Staneley has made an entreaty to the bishop ( “my lorde & yowrez”) to write to them for the said confirmation, to persuade [the bishop] to the contrary because of various great inconveniences that might ensue in future. To avoid these the prior may say to him that they will never consent thereto for any entreaty, and asks him to keep this matter to himself.
Date: Durham, 24 November.
For a memorandum about a letter of confraternity to Mr John Borugh, B.Th., see DCD Reg. IV, f.199r.
Digitised version

f.141r-v   24 November [?1468]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the archbishop of York), informing him that in the matter of the exchange which Mr William Labrone, the archbishop's chaplain, recently declared to the prior on his behalf, he and his fellow monks have out of regard for the archbishop and his writing assented, and for his pleasure and to expedite the matter send him their letters of presentation made to Mr Robert Abdy under their common seal.
Date: at (blank), 24 November.
For the presentation, dated 23 November 1468, of Robert Abdy to a canonry of the collegiate church of Howden and the prebend of Thorpe therein, see DCD Reg. IV, f.200v.
Digitised version

f.141v   7 March 1469
Confirmation of a corrody by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham, stating that, although Alice Bell' has forfeited the corrody, granted to her for life on certain conditions, in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near Kepier, lately vacant by the death of John Marchall', by contracting marriage with a certain Thomas Fairher' contrary to the terms of the prior's grant, nevertheless for certain legitimate reasons proposed before the prior on her behalf, he pardons this forfeiture and dispenses her to retain and possess fully the corrody, given (as aforementioned) for life, for as long as she lives, notwithstanding the said forfeiture, provided that she keeps the ordinances [etc.] of the hospital, as she is obliged; otherwise she will be deprived of all the aforementioned in perpetuity.
Date: Durham, 7 March 1468/9.
Digitised version

f.141v-142r   7 May 1469
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Roger Cotyngham, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Elizabeth Batemanson lately held, for the term of his life. He is to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying within the infirmary, receives, provided that he enters the infirmary and remains there henceforth, and keeps the statutes [etc.] thereof. If he does not do so or perform the accustomed prayers for the souls of the founders of the hospital, or commits fornication or adultery or marries again, then the prior wills he be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to him.
Date: Durham, 7 May 1469.
Digitised version

f.142r   7 June 1469
Memorandum that one quittance was made according to the common form for Mr Edmund Mynskip' for the sum of 50s in part payment of 100s, for the term of Pentecost last past, then paid to the office of chamberlain [of Durham].
Date: 7 June 1469.
(Margin: quittance made for the rector of Walkington.)
Digitised version

f.142r   7 June 1469
Ratification by Richard, prior of Durham, stating that Edward Bethum, knight, intends for the salvation of his soul, as he asserts, to give and grant in free alms to the prior and his fellow monks in the cell of Lytham for free various books, which should be chained in the cell and are to remain there forever for the benefit and use of the said prior and monks, present and future, to pray especially for his soul and the souls of his wife and of their benefactors, and so that they can be made participants of all the divine offices and other prayers said in the same cell by the prior and monks thereof, present and future. The prior assents to Edward's wishes, and ratifies and confirms such a gift of books, made or to be made, and promises on behalf of himself and his successors that the gift, once made, will remain in force forever according to the tenor thereof, without revocation, alienation, sale, claim of ownership or any claim by him or his successors, for as long as the said cell will prosperously remain without destruction, translation, removal, conquest, exchange or ruin and can be safe and unharmed.
Date: Durham, 7 June 1469.
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f.142r-v   20 November 1469
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made in the common form for Mr John Shirwod, prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith', for 13s 4d, owed and customarily paid for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas.
Date: 20 November 1469.
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f.142v   13 November 1469
Memorandum that on 13 November 1469 one quittance was made in the common form for Mr Thomas Portyngton', provost of the church of Hemingbrough, for the payment of a yearly pension of 5 marks, owed for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past. Likewise, on the same day and year another quittance was made for Mr Edmund Mynskip', rector of the church of Walkington, concerning the payment of 50s, owed for the term of Martinmas last past.
(Marginal note that the quittance for the rector of Walkington was according to the common form.)
Digitised version

f.142v   [?1469]
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made in the common form to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall [Oxford] for 10s, owed and customarily paid to the prior and chapter of Durham by reason of a yearly pension for the church of Longbenton for the terms of John the Baptist [24 June] and Christmas.
Digitised version

f.142v   13 December [?1469]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Lilford), informing him that with the general assent of all those having an interest therein, the prior has had discussion with his fellow monks concerning the union to be made hereafter of the church of St Mary Binewerk to the church of All Saints Stamford in accordance with the tenor of his writing lately sent to the prior. He finds them well disposed to this, and to that end the prior sends to him and his fellow monk, Richard *, a sufficient proxy under their common seal, requesting him to execute it and to bring the matter of the union to a final conclusion, with provision to be made for their indemnity, patronage and pension due to them from of old, such as he thinks most advantageous to them in future. To avoid any kind of alienation, he will reserve to the prior in the ordinance to be made thereupon sufficient power to present to the said church of All Saints every second time there is a vacancy thereof. He is to certify the prior in writing of the provision and ordinance to be made thereupon so that the prior may declare his opinion before he concludes this matter.
Date: Durham, 13 December.
* See following letter.
Another copy: DCD Bursar's Book J, inside back of cover.
For a proxy, undated, to John Lilford and Richard Wrake, see DCD Reg. IV, f.201r-v.
Digitised version

f.142v-143r   16 December [?1469]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Wrake [monk of Durham and prior of Stamford]), informing him that to expedite a union of the church of St Mary Binewerk to the church of All Saints Stamford, he and his fellow monks have sent a sufficient proxy to him and Mr John Lilford, willing him to have discussion with John Lilford and William Brown on this matter, to know what provision, ordinance and surety they think to make for their indemnity, patronage and pension previously due. To avoid their patronage being alienated in any way, he has requested in his writing sent to Mr John [see preceding letter] that a sufficient power be forever reserved to them to present to the church of All Saints every second time there is a vacancy thereof. If that cannot be granted, he wills him to ask for it for every third time and to keep this to himself until he knows the final will of all others having an interest therein. He is to certify him and his fellow monks in writing of all the aforementioned before he or Mr John conclude this matter so that he may declare his opinion, if necessary, for the well-being of all parties. He is also to say sharply to Nicholas Gysburgh', notary, that he speedily make satisfaction to the prior's servant, Mr Robert Bartram, his good friend, for 20s for his creation; otherwise, the prior knows well that he will be called to London at the next term therefore.
Date: Durham, 16 December.
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f.143r   2 August 1469
Memorandum about a quittance made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of Welton, for the payment of 20s by reason of a pension owed for the term of Pentecost last past.
Date: 2 August 1469.
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f.143r   31 December 1469
[Memorandum] that three letters of removal were made, one for Thomas Genour [monk of Durham] to transfer himself to the cell of Holy Island, the second for Thomas Stayndrop' [monk of Durham] to remove himself from Holy Island to the cell of Finchale, and the third for Thomas Lewyn [monk of Durham] to remove himself from the cell of Wearmouth and return to the monastery of Durham.
Date: 31 December 1469.
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f.143r   30 January 1470
[Memorandum] that two letters of removal were issued in the common form, one for [removing] John Hoton' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to Jarrow, and the other for [removing] John Both [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Wearmouth.
Date: 30 January 1469/70.
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f.143v   3 February 1470
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Robert Blaky, with the consent of his fellow monks, of that corrody in le maison de dieu which a certain Robert, commonly called Robert of the kiln, had and possessed in his lifetime, for the term of Robert Blaky's life. He is to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying and remaining outside, receives, provided that he keeps all the statutes [etc.].
Date: Durham, 3 February 1469/70.
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f.143v   10 February 1470
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of Durham College [Oxford]), stating that, since he has resolved for certain legitimate reasons that Thomas Passelow, literatus, who has been examined and found to be suitable by the prior's fellow monks, should be admitted as a scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, whose rule the warden has, the prior commands him favourably to receive Thomas to a vacant place in the college as soon as he should come to him, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 10 February 1469/70.
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f.143v-144r   12 February 1470
Grant by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham, to Alice Bell' <one or two words erased> with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody which John Buteler' lately held, in the hospital of Witton [Gilbert], vacant through John's resignation in favour of another corrody granted to him in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near Kepier, for Alice's lifetime. She is to receive annually in food, drink and other necessities of life what any brother or sister, staying in the hospital, receives. He has granted her special licence to remain in some respectable place situated outside the hospital and to be chosen by her, for as long as she is alive, provided that she keeps all the statutes [etc.] thereof. If she does not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or remarry, then he wills that she be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to her.
Date: Durham, 12 February 1469/70.
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f.144r   12 February 1470
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to John Buteler, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene near St Giles hospital of Kepier, now vacant, which a certain John Short, lately deceased, recently held, for the term of John Buteler's life. He is to have what any other brother or sister, staying in the hospital, receives.
Date: Durham, 12 February 1469/70.
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f.144v   20 February [?1470]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Arundell'), having recently received his very grave letters, which were presented to him by Thomas Law, from which the prior has discovered that his fellow monk, Richard Billyngham, Thomas's particular friend, has received from his hands a great sum of money for obtaining a certain dispensation, as he himself admits. The prior marvels greatly at this, considering that this entire [business] was transacted between John Arundell and Richard Billyngham without the prior having been consulted and without his consent or mandate. Whether the sum received by him was put to the use of the monastery or not is doubtful, except that he says [it was]. All things considered, the prior reckons himself exempt and not bound to repay the said sum. Nevertheless, to preserve intact the recipient's trust and the monastery's honour in these and other, even greater, matters, and especially to fulfil his wish in this his pretended urgent necessity, he resolved that the sum of money demanded in his letters should be sent to him by his before-mentioned messenger along with the presents.
Date: Durham, 20 February.

f.144v   13 March 1470
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Agnes Durham, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain John Short held when alive, for the term of her life. She is to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside the infirmary, receives.
Date: Durham, 13 March 1469/70.
Digitised version

f.145r   13 March 1470
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Agnes, wife of John Foster, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in le Maison de Dieu which a certain John Short, recently deceased, held, for the term of her life. She is to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside le Maison, receives.
Date: Durham, 13 March 1469/70.
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f.145r-v   27 March 1469
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Emmote Wright, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Alice Buteler held while alive, for the term of Emmote's life. She is to have what any brother or sister thereof, staying within the infirmary, receives.
Date: Durham, 27 March 1469.
Digitised version

f.145v   30 November 1469
Memorandum about the quittance made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s by reason of a pension owed for the term of Martinmas last.
Date: Durham, 30 November 1469.
Digitised version

f.145v   [?1470]
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Wrake, [monk of Durham and] prior near Stamford), informing him that he believes his presence in person at the next annual chapter, to be held in the chapter house, will be opportune for reforming the state of the monastery and expounding at greater length other difficult and pressing business, he therefore commands him, giving due consideration to what the prior has in mind for the beneficial administration of the monastery and having put aside all other business [and] excuses, to come in person to the said chapter, to treat with his fellow monks about the aforementioned and offer his assistance and advice.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.145v   [?1470]
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Kirke [monk of Durham at ??]), informing him that he has recently heard a report that Richard Wermouthe has stayed with him in the cell for days, terms and years preceding and concerns himself excessively in the administration of the cell, contrary to the honour of John Kirke and the prior [of the cell] and especially the will of the prior of Durham; nevertheless he has not yet fully received certain knowledge of this. He therefore commands him to certify him in writing by his fellow monk, Thomas Hawhton, bearer of the presents, concerning the truth of this matter and its management, as he wishes to respond to the prior when there is an opportune time for inquiring ( “requirendi”).
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f. 145v-146r   22 April 1470
Agreement by indenture between Richard, prior of Durham, with the express consent of his fellow monks of the chapter, and Mr James Bonelet [or Bovelet], proctor of causes in the Roman curia, confirming that the said Mr James promised on plighted faith to go to the aforesaid curia and there bring about the final completion of the cause of Coldingham priory, St Andrews diocese, in Scotland, in accordance with the force and tenor of certain executorial letters concerning the said priory which were decreed in the Roman curia in favour of the aforesaid prior and chapter. Likewise, that James, for as long as he is in the curia, will bring all and sundry matters of the prior and chapter to a better state. Likewise, that James will not undertake any matters by himself or any other person, directly or indirectly, secretly or openly, which in any way tell against the prior and chapter, but rather he will defend such matters or causes against any persons, for the honour and benefit of the monastery, by every better means, method, cause and right which he can, de iure or de facto. Likewise, in the event that the prior and chapter for their benefit and to expedite their said business write to James again, wherever he is, to prepare himself for the journey and direct himself to these parts as soon as he can, then James, having put aside all excuses, with the single exception of infirmity, will return to these parts and to the city of Durham within a month or six weeks immediately following receiving such letters. He will stay there and is to do praiseworthily what the prior and chapter will command him to do, with travelling expenses, in addition to one horse, provided for the journey from the curia, which with the consent of both parties was fixed at the amount of 16 ducats [? c. £3] for every time he returns. With the express consent and will of his fellow monks, the prior faithfully promised to pay to James ten old English nobles (a single noble being worth 8s 4d) every year he faithfully undertakes and carries out the aforementioned duties in accordance with his promise, along with five ells of clerical woollen cloth, the same as other clerks in their service customarily receive, and for his servant a valet's garment yearly. When resident in the monastery of Durham, James and his then servant will have from the prior and his fellow monks one private chamber, and food and drink suitable to their position, with fuel and candles in winter, according to the custom of the monastery. The aforesaid parties will that if the prior and his fellow monks do not require James's service for a time, they will promptly advise him, and for every year then following pay him 20s in cash, with the aforesaid cloth. James will not be constrained or bound on account of the aforementioned but can, either when he is in or outside the curia, accept any matters or causes from any persons and to act as a proctor ( “procurare”) for them, provided that when summoned and required he is prepared at all times to render them service in accordance with the tenor of the aforementioned, and that such matters or causes to be accepted by him do not tend to the prejudice of the prior and his fellow monks in any way in future.
Sealed alternately.
Date: Durham, 22 April 1470.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.217-219.
Digitised version

f.146r   25 April 1470
Letter (subscription: by Richard, prior and the chapter [of Durham]), (margin: to Mr Francis de Salviatis [or Salniatis or Salmatis]), informing him that they have recently learned from the report of their fellow monk and proctor, Richard Billingham, whom Francis knew, that he, confident of Francis's trustworthiness, left with him twenty gold ducats de camera [? c. £5], to be spent on expediting a confessional bull, not yet obtained, which they do not desire at present. They therefore request him to repay the twenty ducats [? c. £5] deposited with him to Mr James Bovelet, their specially deputed proctor, which is to be converted to the use and benefit of the monastery. If, as they hope, he should satisfy their wishes, he will find them disposed as far as possible [to him], if a similar or more important cause arises in these parts.
Under the other part of their common seal.
Date: Durham, 25 April 1470.
Digitised version

f.146v   25 April 1470
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Thomas Hope), requesting him to repay the twenty ducats [? c. £5] which their fellow monk, Richard Billingham, left in his safe keeping, because of the trust he had in him, for certain affairs of theirs in the Roman curia, to be kept by their proctor, Mr James Bonelett, bearer of the presents, [and] to be put to the use and benefit of the monastery.
Under the other part of their common seal.
Date: Durham, 25 April 1470.
Digitised version

f.146v   5 May [?1470]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to James Bonelett), informing him that he sends to him 13s 4d English, enclosed in the presents, for obtaining the admission and institution of the prior's fellow monk, Thomas Wrenne, to the priorate of Coldingham, which is to be paid to his bishop, as is asserted, by way of his customary fee. He entreats him to manage and bring to the desired end that business and all his other affairs in the Roman curia and elsewhere, which they recently discussed. To bring a final proceeding against Patrick Home and John Home in the said curia, the prior wishes him first to take 36 ducats [? c. £9] from the prior's debts, to be raised by him (in so far as they can be recovered), in order to make satisfaction, as James has said, to the pope and other officials of his holy palace. If they cannot be recovered in due time, the prior promises to send quickly that amount of ducats, after legitimate monition has been made by the next arrival thereafter.
Date: Durham, 5 May.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.219.
Digitised version

f.146v   1 May 1470
Memorandum that four letters of removal were issued in the common form, one for [removing] John Hoton' [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Holy Island, the second for John Roose [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Jarrow, the third for Robert Knowte [monk of Durham] from Farne to Lytham and the fourth for Robert Billyngham [monk of Durham] from Lytham to Farne.
Date: 1 May 1470.
Digitised version

f.146v   5 May 1470
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of Richard Wrake [monk of Durham], as master or keeper of the cell of Wearmouth, committing to him its care and administration in both spiritualities and temporalities, until he has another mandate from the prior; commanding all and sundry concerned to be answerable to him and obey him as master in all pertaining to them, as was the custom with the other masters of the cell. He is to render annually a faithful account to the prior for all receipts and expenses of the cell.
Date: Durham, 5 May 1470.
Digitised version

f.147r   23 July 1470
Memorandum that two quittances were issued according to the common form, one for Thomas Portyngton', provost of Hemingbrough, for a payment of 33s 4d, in part payment of five marks, by reason of a pension owed for the term of Pentecost last past, and the other for Mr Edmund Mynshipp', rector of the church of Walkington, concerning a payment of 50s in part payment of a yearly pension of 100s owed for the term of Pentecost last past.
Date: 23 July 1470.
Digitised version

f.147r   20 July 1470
Memorandum that a quittance was made for Thomas Rudde [vicar of Welton *] concerning a payment of 20s, by reason of a pension owed and customarily paid for the term of Pentecost last past.
Date: 20 July 1470.
* See f.145v above and 147v below.
Digitised version

f.147r   8 October 1470
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made for the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle[-upon-Tyne] concerning a payment of a pension of £9 3s 4d owed for the term of Michaelmas last past.
Date: 8 October 1470.
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f.147r   15 October [?1470]
[Memorandum] that two letters of removal were composed, one for [removing] Thomas Stayndrop' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to the monastery [of Durham] and the other for [removing] Richard Tanfeld [monk of Durham] from the monastery to the cell of Finchale.
Date: 15 October.
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f.147r   14 October 1470
[Memorandum] that the corrody, which a certain Roger Cotyngham lately held, was granted for life with full rights to Thomas Stobbez in the infirmary near the abbey gate Durham, provided that he resides within, unless he is otherwise dispensed, and does and performs all else, by himself or another person, as any brother staying within has been accustomed to do.
Date: 14 October 1470.
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f.147r   14 November 1470
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made in the common form for Mr John Shirwod, prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith, concerning the payment of 13s 4d by reason of a pension owed and customarily paid for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past.
Date: 14 November 1470.
Digitised version

f.147r   12 November 1470
Collation by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to William Barton', chaplain, of the chantry at the altar of St Thomas the martyr in the aforesaid church of Howden.
Date: Durham, 12 November 1470.
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f.147v   12 January 1471
Memorandum that two quittances were made, one for Mr Thomas Portyngton, provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough concerning the payment of 33s 4d by reason of a yearly pension of five marks, owed for the term of Martinmas last past, and the other for Mr Edmund Mynshipp', rector of the church of Walkington, concerning the payment of 50s, in part payment of 100s owed for the said term of Martinmas.
Date: 12 January 1470/1.
Digitised version

f.147v   7 April 1471
[Memorandum] that a quittance was made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s by reason of the yearly pension of the said church owed for the term of Martinmas last past.
Date: 7 April 1471.
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f.147v   29 May 1471
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard Wrake, [monk of Durham and] master of the cell of Wearmouth), stating that, since for certain legitimate causes he has discharged him from the care and administration in both spiritualities and temporalities of the cell of Wearmouth, which had been previously committed to him, he resolved he should be recalled to the monastery of Durham. He therefore commands him, once he has seen the presents, to direct his steps and remain there until he has another mandate from him.
Date: Durham, 29 May 1471.
Digitised version

f.147v   30 May 1471
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of Robert West [monk of Durham], as master or keeper of the cell of Wearmouth, committing to him its care and administration in both spiritualities and temporalities, until he has another mandate from the prior; commanding all and sundry concerned to be answerable to him and obey him as master or keeper in all pertaining to them, as was the custom with the other masters or keepers of the cell. He is to render annually a faithful account to the prior for all receipts and expenses of the cell.
Date: Durham, 30 May 1471.
Digitised version

f.147v   10 June [?1471]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the abbot of Newminster of the same order [as John Harebrown below]), informing him that on Holy Trinity now past [9 June in 1471] a certain John Harebrown, monk (as he asserts) of the monstery of Swineshead, Lincoln diocese, suddenly by chance came to him as an itinerant. The prior sends him to the abbot so that, having forsaken his error, he might reside under his rule for a while, since he was professed in the abbot's order, until the abbot can write to John's abbot to obtain his pardon in this regard. If necessary, he is to use the prior's influence for the return of John to his place.
Date: Durham, 10 June “inst.”
Digitised version

f.147v-148r   18 June 1471
Quittance by Richard, prior of Durham, to the provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, for 33s 4d for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of a certain yearly pension of five marks owed de iure to the prior and office of chamberlain of Durham and customarily paid from of old by the rectors thereof when there was an office of rector there.
Date: Durham, 18 June 1471.
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f.148r   18 June 1471
Quittance by Richard, prior of Durham, to Mr Edmund Mynskipp', rector of the church of Walkington, for 50s for the term of Pentecost last past in part payment of a certain yearly pension of 100s owed de iure to the prior and office of chamberlan of Durham and customarily paid from of old from the rectors thereof.
Date: Durham, 18 June 1471.
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f.148r   15 August 1471
Memorandum that Richard, prior of Durham, on the authority of an apostolic bull granted to him and his successors, has in the customary form dispensed his fellow monk, Thomas Roland, being in his twenty-second year (as is well known), that he may freely and lawfully be promoted to the priestly order and afterwards minister in it, notwithstanding the aforesaid defect of his age and any apostolic constitutions and other statutes and customs to the contrary.
Date: 15 August 1471.
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f.148r   15 September 1471
[Memorandum] that one quittance was made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s by reason of a pension owed for the term of Pentecost last past.
Date: 15 September 1471.
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f.148r-149r   24 September 1471
Letter by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in all and sundry churches and chapels appropriated to him and his chapter of Durham in [North]Allerton and Allertonshire, to George, archbishop of York, legate of the apostolic see [etc.], stating that, since, having examined his registers and the books of acts of the ordinary visitations separately and successively carried out in the time of Mr John Burneby, his immediate predecessor, on 9 October 1462, in the church of [West] Rounton in the archbishop's diocese and the prior's jurisdiction as well as in his time, namely, on 21 June 1468 in the church of Northallerton, by their special commissaries according to the apostolic privileges and indults granted to him and his monastery of Durham, he found contained, among the other findings,
that in the said visitation of his predecessor, made by Mr William Seton, S.T.P., monk of Durham, his specially deputed commissary (along with other persons), a certain Richard Nicson', present rector of church of [West] Rounton, was first enjoined by the said visitor without further delay to remove from his house and cohabitation within six days from the time of the injunction a certain Emmote Wilson', his special concubine, who was cohabiting with him, from whom he has begotten many offspring (as was discovered and found in the said visitation and judicially confessed by both parties) and to abstain from carnal coupling with her under penalty of the loss or deprivation of his benefice,
and subsequently in his last visitation similarly carried out in the church of Northallerton, as aforementioned, by his fellow monk, Thomas Halver, then chancellor of the monastery and (along with others) his sufficiently deputed commissary, the said Richard Nicson', rector, stubbornly persevering in his wickedness and carnal pleasure, was more strictly enjoined, for his rebellion and contempt in not obeying the injunctions previously made to him, in [not] submitting himself to the correction of the commissary and [not] receiving from him the punishment for his faults again confessed, not only to remove the same concubine, thus relapsed, from his cohabitation and house to outside his parish before Michaelmas next under penalty of being deprived, but also to desist forever from this offence under the same penalty of deprivation and the loss of 20s, to be applied partly to the fabric of the church of Durham and partly to that of the church of [West] Rounton, and to amend his life. For his part the rector swore a bodily oath on the gospels faithfully to observe everything last enjoined upon him.
Notwithstanding all and sundry thus successively done, the rector, unmindful of his own salvation, returned, like a dog to vomit, to such a damnable offence long continued, and having put aside any fear of God, the churches and the said penalties, and spurned the injunctions often made to him, lately begat twins ( “duos gemellos”) by his concubine; he has stood by her and probably {always} intends to do so in future, unless he is quickly prevented [from doing so] by some remedy of law.
Since the prior is unable to proceed to the execution of the said penalty of deprivation or to deprive him of his said benefice in any way, he entreats the archbishop (to whom admissions, institutions and deprivations of Richard as well as of all other curates of the said spirituality are known to pertain), having seen and considered his present proceeding, lawfully to proceed to stricter [penalties] against the same Richard, living incontinently, as aforementioned, and contumacious and rebellious, to deprive him of his said benefice with all possible haste, and to grant other [things] which are right and incumbent on his pastoral office so that, once the rector is removed from the said church on the archbishop's authority, the prior can without delay make provision for the same church for another more suitable rector to be substituted in his place.
Date: Durham, 24 September 1471.
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f.149r   31 December 1471
Memorandum concerning the quittance made to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall Oxford, for the payment of a yearly pension of 10s, owed to the prior and convent of Durham by reason of the church of Longbenton for the terms of John the Baptist [24 June] and Christmas.
Date: 31 December 1471.
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f.149r   4 October 1471
Memorandum concerning the quittance made to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, concerning the payment of £9 3s 4d, by reason of a yearly pension owed and customarily paid by them to the master of the cell of Farne Island.
Date: 4 October 1471.
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f.149r   31 October 1471
Memorandum that three letters of removal were drawn up according to the common form, one for [removing] John Bothe [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to the monastery of Durham, the second for [removing] Robert Billyngham [monk of Durham] from the cell of Farne to the cell of Wearmouth, and the third for [removing] Thomas Junor [Genour ?, monk of Durham] from the cell of Holy Island to the cell of Farne.
Date: 31 October 1471.
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f.149r   [c. October 1471]
Mandate by Richard, prior of Durham, to all and sundry priors and masters of the cells of Finchale, Holy Island, Jarrow, Wearmouth and Farne Island, stating that the president of the general chapter of their order, last held in Northampton, has commanded him to keep certain praiseworthy statutes, which were promulgated in the same chapter with the assent of those present and sent to the prior, and without delay to cause them and all other monks to observe them. He therefore commands the aforesaid priors and masters faithfully to observe these statutes, enclosed in the presents, according to the requirements and tenor thereof, insofar as they pertain to them, and to cause all monks staying with them to observe them.
Date: “etc.”
Printed: Chapters of the English Black Monks III, ed W.A. Pantin (Camden 3rd Series vol.liv, 1937), p.115-116.
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f.149v   12 November 1471
Memorandum that two quittances were made, one for Lionel Wydivyle, provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, concerning the payment of 23s 4d, by reason of a pension owed to the office of chamberlan of Durham for the term of Martinmas last past, and the other for Mr Edmund Mynskyp, rector of the church of Walkington, for the payment of 50s, owed to the same office for the said term.
Date: 12 November 1471.
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f.149v   1 November 1471
Memorandum that a letter of removal was issued according to the customary form for [removing] Hugh Lethom [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale.
Date: 1 November 1471.
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f.149v   9 April 1472
Mandate [by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham], [to the warden of Durham College Oxford], stating that, since for certain legitimate causes he resolved that {Robert Bell'} (over erasure), literatus, who has been examined by his fellow monks and found suitable, should be admitted as a scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, of which he is in charge, he therefore commands him to receive favourably the same {Robert} (over erasure] to {a place in the college now} (over erasure) vacant, when he should come in person to him and the college, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, {9 April} (over erasures) 147{2} (over erasure).
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f.149v-150r   [?1472]
Language:   English
Letter (margin: by [Edward IV], king of England), (margin: to [James III], king of Scotland), informing him that he has received the pope's letters, directed to him and given at Rome on 10 September last past, containing how certain definitive sentences have been obtained in the high court of Rome against his subject, Patrick Home, late intruder and despoiler of the priory of Coldingham in the diocese of St Andrews, belonging to the prior and convent of Durham, and against his subject, John Home, clerk, successor to Patrick in the said intrusion. Although letters executorial were thereupon decreed and authority committed to the said prior and convent to execute the same, they could not achieve the said execution because of the resistance and disobedience of his said subject and his confederates, without the assistance of the secular power. The pope therefore exhorted him to give his assistance to the said prior and convent both in executing the same and recovering the possession of and peaceably retaining the said priory, according to the said executorials. Whereas it is the duty of every Christian prince to give assistance to defend the right of the church, he therefore desires him to bestow his favour on the prior and convent in the said execution and recovery, for which reason only he now sends to him his servant, Norroy king of arms, by whom he asks him to inform him of his favourable disposition therein.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.220.
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f.150r-v   31 December [?1471]
Language:   English
Letter (margin: by the prior of Durham), (margin: to [James III], king of Scotland), informing him that in a matter of the appeal which is undecided and long pending in the court of Rome before certain auditors deputed by the pope between the prior and his fellow monks, his bedesmen, on the one part and Patrick Home and John Home, his subjects, who have successively intruded in their cell and barony of Coldingham within his realm without title of right, on the other, after due and lawful process in the said court concerning this matter, the prior has with great trouble and expense obtained many definitive sentences against the aforesaid Mr Patrick and John. The pope has despatched letters executorial on these sentences, under the name and seal of the renowned doctor, Mr Antonius de Grassis, auditor and lawfully deputed judge in this matter, which are directed not only to the king of England but also to the king of Scotland and many other lords of various estates within their realms. The prior beseeches him to receive and examine the letters executorial, which the king of England, designated principal co-executor in the same letters, sends to him at this time by his servant, Norroy king of arms, to the end that the king of Scotland might, in justice and conscience and out of regard for the pope and court of Rome, grant to his bedesmen the assistance of his temporal power, with letters of safe conduct to be made to his fellow monks and proctors and all others accompanying them by his licence, to enter the realm, abide there and return again as often as they like for the due and speedy execution of the letters executorial within his realm for the reformation of his said subjects, who are accursed for their great obstinacy and rebellion against the laws of holy church, and are openly declared aggravated, reaggravated and interdicted in the court of Rome. He further requests that his said proctors may peaceably enter, occupy and enjoy the said cell and barony, with the commodities pertaining thereto, under his protection to be granted to them, out of reverence for God and the great love he has for their patron, St Cuthbert, to whom the cell and barony were given by his progenitors, whereof the prior and his predecessors were peaceably possessed from time out of mind before the said intrusion.
Date: Durham, 31 December.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.221-222.
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f.150v   31 December [?1471]
Letter (margin: by the prior of Durham), (margin: to the bishop of Glasgow), informing him that Pope Nicholas V appointed him preserver (“conservatricem”) to defend the rights of the prior and his fellow monks in their barony of Coldingham, he therefore entreats him, having assumed the power bestowed on him, to urge the king of Scotland graciously to accept certain letters executorial concerning various definitive sentences, promulgated against Mr Patrick Home and John Home in a certain cause of appeal recently pending in the Roman curia between the prior and his fellow monks on the one part and the same Patrick and John on the other, who successively intruded themselves in the said barony without any title of right. These letters were obtained at great trouble and expense to the prior under the pope's authority, in the name and seal of the distinguished doctor, Mr Antonius de Grassis, auditor and lawfully deputed judge in the same cause, and were lately sent to James [III], king of Scots, by Edward [IV], king of England, nominated principal co-executor in the same letters. He further entreats the bishop to persuade the king duly to execute the letters within his realm, and immediately to put them into effect himself in his city and diocese, after inspecting them.
Date: Durham, 31 December.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.222-223.
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f.150v-151r   1 February 1472
Bond by Thomas Ynslerd [or Yuslerd] of Howdenshire in York diocese, to Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, for £20 to be paid to the prior and chapter or their certain attorney at Martinmas next to come. He binds himself, his heirs and executors, and all his goods and chattels, wherever found, to pay this.
Sealed with his seal.
Date: 1 February 1471/2
Condition of the bond that if John Ynslerd, natural and legitimate son of the said Thomas, to be admitted as scholar of Durham College Oxford, after his admission conducts himself well and faithfully towards the warden and fellow monks thereof, obeys their canonical and lawful mandates, keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs, and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them any injury, and remains in the college for three years after his admission before taking a bachelor's degree and does not presume to be made inceptor in arts within seven years of his admission, then the present bond will be null; otherwise, it should remain in force.
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f.151r   12 March 1472
Memorandum that a quittance was made for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, York diocese, for the payment of 20s, owed for the term of Martinmas last past and customarily paid from of old to the prior of Durham and the office of chamberlain there.
Date: 12 March 1471/2.
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f.151r   7 May 1472
Memorandum that the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Thomas Clugh' lately held, was granted to Robert Belicyse for life, with authority to stay outside, to receive what any brother or sister staying outside presently receives. He obtained letters in respect thereof in the usual form.
Date: 7 May 1472.
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f.151r   11 May 1472
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of Thomas Halver [monk of Durham], as prior of the cell of Holy Island, committing to him its care and administration in both spiritualities and temporalities, until he has another mandate from the prior; commanding all and sundry whom this concerns to be answerable to him and obey him as prior in all pertaining to the cell, as was the custom with the other priors thereof. He is to render annually a faithful account to the prior for all receipts and expenses of the cell.
Date: Durham, 11 May 1472.
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f.151r   18 May 1472
Memorandum that the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Agnes Smyth' lately held, was granted to Eleanor Catlynson' for life, to receive what any brother or sister staying outside presently receives. She had the usual and customary letters in respect thereof.
Date: 18 May 1472.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.cccliv.
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f.151r-v   18 March 1472
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (postscript: to all and sundry priors and masters of the cells pertaining to the church of Durham, with the exception only of the cell of Coldingham), informing them that he has often heard public talk that certain of his fellow monks dwelling in the cells, having spurned the admonitions of the prior's predecessors and his exhortations and precepts previously made to the priors and masters and to their fellow monks, against the observances of his religion were wearing linen shirts and woollen hose (“calig'”), closed in the manner of lay persons; wishing to curb their transgressions in these and other matters (if they should arise), he commands them by virtue of the obedience [owing to him] and under penalty of contempt to make inquiry into an abuse of this kind perhaps being committed within the cell over which they preside, and, if any of the monks staying with them, now or in the future, were found to be culpable of the aforementioned and had worn such garments, to admonish them (and the prior by the presents similarly admonishes the priors, masters and monks) to forsake all and sundry such prohibited garments and especially closed hose (the wearing of which the prior forever forbids them) within a month of the presents being presented to them, under the penalties in the statutes of the order, duly imposed at fitting places and times against priors, masters and monks who act to the contrary. As for the wearing of linen shirts, in the time of genuine, serious illness, or if anyone's body, God forbid, should be scabby, ulcerous, wounded, ruptured, infected or full of poison in any way (provided they confirm this in good conscience) he wills and intends, if such a case should arise and if requested, from his special grace to dispense them. He wills and commands them, having discarded such shirts and hose, without delay to wear clothes of coarse cloth ( “stamineis”) and separate hose, according to the long practised custom of the monastery.
Date: Durham, 18 March 1471/2.
(The postscript also mentions that this letter was sent successively to all the priors and masters.)
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclii-cccliii.
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f.151v   9 April 1472
Bond by John Bell' of Raby, chaplain, and William Burton' of Cleatlam, to Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, for 20s to be paid to the prior and chapter and their successors or certain attorney at Martinmas next to come. They bind themselves, their heirs and executors, and all their goods and chattels, wherever found, to pay this.
Under their seals.
Date: Durham, 9 April 1472.
Marginal note: Bond made for Robert Bell', admitted as scholar of Durham College Oxford, as evident on the third folio above [f.149v].
Condition of the bond that if Robert Bell' of Durham diocese, literatus, to be admitted as scholar of Durham College Oxford, for whom the same John Bell', chaplain, and William Burton, are bound by the presents, as aforementioned, after his admission conducts himself well and faithfully towards the warden and fellow monks thereof, obeys their canonical and lawful mandates, keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs, and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them any injury, and remains in the college for three years after his admission before taking a bachelor's degree and does not presume to be made inceptor in arts within seven years of his admission, then the present bond will be null; otherwise, it should remain in force
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f.152r   7 June 1472
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of [Durham] College Oxford), stating that, since for certain legitimate reasons he resolved that John Smyth', son of Nicholas Smyth' of Northallerton, York diocese, literatus, should be admitted as scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, of which he is in charge, provided that, having first been examined by him, John is found suitable, the prior commands him to receive favourably the same John to a place in the college now vacant, when he should come in person to him and the college, after he has first taken a bodily oath.
Date: Durham, 7 June 1472.
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f.152r   7 June 1472
Bond by Nicholas Smyth' of Northallerton and Thomas Smith, chaplain, to Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, for 20s to be paid to the prior and chapter and their successors or certain attorney at Pentecost next to come. They bind themselves, their heirs and executors, and all their goods and chattels, wherever found, to pay this.
Under their seals.
Date: Durham, 7 June 1472.
Condition of the bond that if John Smyth, son of Nicholas Smith', literatus, to be admitted as scholar of Durham College Oxford, for whom the same Nicholas Smith' and Thomas Smith' , chaplain, are bound by the presents, as aforementioned, after his admission conducts himself well and faithfully towards the warden and fellow monks thereof, obeys their canonical and lawful mandates, keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs, and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them any injury, and does not presume to be made inceptor in arts within seven years of his admission without having first sought and obtained licence of the prior or warden of the college, then the present bond will be null; otherwise, it should remain in force. If John does anything against the aforementioned, he will be deprived of every right and title acquired by him in the college.
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f.152r   15 November 1472
Memorandum that two quittances were issued in the usual form, one for Mr Lionel Widivyle, provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, concerning a payment of 33s 4d in full payment of a certain yearly pension of five marks, owed to the office of chamberlain of Durham for the term of Martinmas last past, and the other for Mr Edmund Mynskip, rector of the church of Walkington, for a payment of 50s, owed to the same office for the said term of Martinmas in full payment of 100s.
Date: 15 November 1472.
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f.152r   [15 November 1472]
[Memorandum] that another quittance was issued to Mr (blank), prebendary of the prebend of Skipwith, concerning a payment of 13s 4d owed and customarily paid for the term of Pentecost and Martinmas last past.
Date: “the same day and year”.
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f.152r   14 November 1472
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (superscription: to the masters of the cells of Jarrow and Wearmouth), stating that he is sending his fellow monk, John Forest, to them for the purpose of walking about. He wills him to remain with them for a period of a month each from his arrival; they are to show him kindness and bestow their special favour on him.
Date: Durham, 14 November 1472.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xiii.
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f.152v   8 December 1472
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Avis [or Anis] Rokesby, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain Richard Hardyng held when alive, for her lifetime.
Date: Durham, 8 December 1472.
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f.152v   2 January 1473
Quitclaim by James Bonelett, Lic.Cn.&C.L., to the prior of Durham and his fellow monks, releasing and quitclaiming him from all actions, real and personal, which he has or may have against them, by reason of any contract or other contractual indenture or any cause.
Under his seal.
Date: Durham, 2 January 1472/3.
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f.152v   12 January 1473
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Ellen, wife of James Dunne, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody for life in {le Maison de dieu} (over erasure, probably of <the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham>) which Katherine Shalden, still surviving, previously held, and which she, having sought and obtained the prior's special licence, willingly surrendered for the use and benefit of the same Ellen, her daughter. She is to receive what any brother or sister thereof, staying outside, receives.
Date: Durham, 12 January 1472/3.
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f.152v-153r   [12 January 1473]
Memorandum that the corrody was granted for life to John Palesser', which his mother, Agnes Diky, still surviving, held before, and which she, having first sought and obtained the prior's special licence, willingly surrendered for the use and benefit of John, “etc., as above”.
Date: “the previous abovesaid day, month and year”.
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f.153r   23 March 1473
Memorandum that one quittance was made in the common form for Thomas Rudde, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning a payment of 20s, by reason of the yearly pension of the said church, owed and customarily paid to the office of chamberlain for the term of Martinmas last past.
Date: 23 March 1472/3.
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f.153r   8 April 1473
Memorandum that one letter was issued in the common form from the prior, as evident in the second folio preceding [f.152r], to the warden of Durham College Oxford, for the admission of William Hall', son of William Hall' of Chester[-le-Street], as scholar thereof, for whom William Hall', the aforesaid father, William Billy and Roland Hall' are bound for 20s to be paid at Martinmas next to come, as evident in a certain bond made thereon, with a condition inserted in the same manner and form as above.
Date: 8 April 1473.
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f.153r   2 July 1473
Memorandum that Richard, prior of Durham, with the unanimous consent and will of his fellow monks, granted and confirmed to Agnes, widow of Thomas Scobbes, that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey, Durham, which Thomas previously held, and granted her letters testimonial in respect thereof in the common form, as evident above on the preceding folio [f.152r].
Date: 2 July 1473.
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f.153r   5 August 1473
Memorandum that Richard, prior of Durham, with the general consent of his fellow monks, granted to Isabel Shotton' that corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey, Durham, which Joan Roos lately held, and granted her letters testimonial in respect thereof in the [common] form.
Date: 5 August 1473.
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f.153r   11 August 1473
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], “to his dearest fellow monk”, stating that he is sending to him, for the purpose of walking about, his fellow monk, John Rolland', much troubled by bodily infirmity, whom he wishes to remain with him {for the period of one month} (over erasure) from his arrival. He is to show him kindness and bestow his special favour on him.
Date: Durham, 11 August 1473.
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f.153r-v   21 September 1473
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Gerona, LL.D.), informing him that he has recently heard that out of the favour and affection which he has for St Cuthbert, the prior and his fellow monks, as yet unknown to him, he has bestowed his friendship on Richard Billingham [monk of Durham] in the matter of Coldingham and forewarned him about a certain commission which was deceitfully sought from the pope, by the fanciful (“ymaginatam”) fraud of the Scots who are warring daily against [them], to the considerable detriment of Richard and the prior's cause; the prior thanks him for this, praying him so to continue as regards the prior, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham in all their causes moved and to be moved in the Roman curia. To this end, with their unanimous consent and will, they have appointed him one of his proctors, with sufficient authority to act and defend [their causes] in the said curia, as manifestly clear in a certain proxy drawn up in respect thereof and sent to him and Mr Peter de Mellinis, and request him to undertake and execute the charge of proctor with the said Mr Peter. Since they are unable at present to make him worthy recompense for the aforementioned and his other deeds, nevertheless they unanimously grant him a yearly fee, although small, of 40s of English money, every year from Martinmas next to come, for pursuing and defending such causes in the curia, to be paid in the bank of John de Bardis, in London or in any other place within the realm of England to be chosen by him, as long as he has faithfully performed the aforementioned.
Sealed with his own seal at the special request of his fellow monks.
Date: Durham, 21 September 1473.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.229-230.
For a proxy, dated 18 September 1473, to John Gerona, Peter de Mellinis and Richard Billingham, see DCD Reg. IV, f.211r-v.
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f.153v   3 October 1473
Licence by Richard, prior of Durham, to his fellow monk, John Lee, studying in [Durham] College Oxford, to hear the confessions of his fellow monks and other religious staying in the college and to absolve them, with the absolving of grave faults reserved to the prior or his special deputy with the presents to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 3 October 1473.
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f.153v   5 September 1473
Memorandum that a corrody for life was granted to Henry Wrake in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Marion Huke held; he is to receive what any brother staying inside receives and to keep the statutes etc. He had a letter in respect thereof in the due and customary form.
Date: 5 September 1473.
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f.153v   12 October 1473
Memorandum that a corrody for life was granted to William Smyth, son of Richard Smyth', his late (“olim”) father, in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Avis [or Anis] Rokesby had; he is to receive what any brother staying within receives and to keep the statutes and perform the other [duties] etc. as above. He had a letter in respect thereof in the common form.
Date: 12 October 1473.
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f.153v-154r   [?1473]
Language:  English, with one phrase in Latin
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to John Eden' [monk of Durham]) whereas he promised him at their last parting to make him prior of Lytham at Whitsun next on his good behaviour, for the good affection he has long had for him, notwithstanding that he has given him great cause to the contrary, if he recalls, it was his place to keep the promise secret until it had been executed and taken effect, and not to proclaim it throughout the region where he dwells, as he has done, inasmuch as it has come to the knowledge of the lord Stanley, the prior's special lord, that he would make him prior of Lytham and recall his fellow monk, William Cuthbert. Lord Stanley, of his own accord and out of the affection he has for William Cuthbert and the welfare of Lytham, has lately written to the prior, urging him for many weighty reasons expressed in his said writing to allow William to be prior there and occupy it henceforth as he has done before under lord Stanley's protection, considering his rule and {good} manner of living, along with his notable deeds whilst there for the worship of God, profit of Lytham and defence of the rights of St Cuthbert, which Lord Stanley greatly commends. The prior intends to fulfull his wish in this matter or any other that he reasonably can, rejoicing that he and his fellow monks have such a worthy protector in that region of his own free will. Moreover, the prior is given to understand by a credible person that the first night John Eden came to Lytham, he declared his said promise to him, letting him know that before Whitsun he thought neither to be prior of Lytham nor fellow therein. God knows what he means by this and intends to do. After his idle talk, the prior fears it will be as he says, which he regrets. Also, he says where he pleases that if he should be prior of Lytham, he must make obedience to the archdeacon for his admission, institution and induction, and therein he says truly, but where he says that such obedience made secondarily to the archdeacon nullifies the first obedience made to his religion and the prior, he is sparing of the truth, as he may understand from a special writing concerning their religion, which the prior sends to him by the bearer hereof to examine at length, so that he may know the truth and forsake such error. The prior can well conceive that in the event he were prior thereof, admitted, instituted, inducted and under obedience ( “made obedienciary”) to the archdeacon, he would presume to be utterly exempt from all manner of obedience owing to the said religion and the prior's person, and perhaps in time to trouble the prior and his fellow monks, putting them to great trouble and expense, as William Partrik did in his time. Therefore, after considering the aforementioned and especially to avoid such perils, the prior will be right well advised before he appoints any other man to the rule of Lytham who is not of a different disposition from him. The prior charges him to remain there as a brother and fellow until he has a command otherwise from him.
Date: Durham (date blank).
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f.154r   11 February 1474
Memorandum that a corrody for life was granted to John Taylour in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain Margaret Hogeson' held; he is to receive what any brother or sister staying within [the infirmary] receives, and to keep the ordinances and statutes thereof, and to perform etc. He had his letter in respect thereof in the common form etc.
Date: 11 February 1473/4.
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f.154r   11 February - 24 March 1474
Memorandum that from 11 February 1473/4 to 24 March the following corrodies were granted in the common form to the following persons by Richard, prior of Durham, with the general assent of his fellow monks: first, a corrody was granted to Thomas Jonson' in le Maison de dieu, which Thomas Coke held. Likewise, a corrody was granted to (blank) in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which the same Thomas Coke held when alive. Likewise, a corrody was granted to Joan Swynton' in le Maison de dieu, which John Atkynson' held. Likewise, a corrody was granted to William Belt in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which John Calys held. Likewise, a corrody was granted to Isabel Lancastr' in le Maison de dieu, which Isabel Grynsedall' held. Likewise, a corrody was granted to William Heryngher' in le Maison de dieu, which Robert Blaky held, dated 4 March 1473/4.
(Marginal note: “note here”)
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f.154r   14 April 1474
Memorandum that a corrody was granted to Thomas Whitscales in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which William Smyth' lately held. He had a letter in respect thereof in the common form under the prior's seal.
Date: 14 April 1474.
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f.154r   27 May 1474
[Memorandum] that a corrody was granted to John Benson' in le Maison de dieu, which a certain William Smyth lately held. He obtained a {letter} in respect thereof in the due and customary form.
Date: 27 May 1474.
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f.154v-155r   4 June 1474
Proxy by Richard, prior of Durham, addressed to all and sundry presidents of the provincial chapter of the order of black monks in England, to be held by apostolic authority at Northampton on Monday, 4 July next to come, appointing his fellow monk, Mr Robert Ebchestr', S.T.P., warden of Durham College Oxford, as his proctor to appear before them on his behalf at the day and place assigned (with specific responsibilities described), since the prior is unable to be present in person because of difficult matters [touching] the state and advantage of the monastery.
Date: Durham, 4 June 1474.
Printed: Chapters of the English Black Monks III, ed W.A. Pantin (Camden 3rd Series vol.liv, 1937), p.207-208.
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f.155r-v   [4 June 1474]
Record of submissions by John Raynoldson and John Fery of the town of Cocken, Durham diocese, stating that on 11 July 1474 they appeared in person in the principal vestry, situated on the southern side, in the church of Durham, before Richard, {prior} of Durham, various of his fellow monks and other witnesses, written below, who were summoned for this purpose; they knelt down and prostrated themselves at the prior's feet, and voluntarily and publicly before a great audience of these persons confessed their offences, wickedly perpetrated by them in violation of the liberties of St Cuthbert, and, submitting themselves to the prior's correction, requested that absolution from the sentence of greater excommunication, in which they were ensnared, be granted them. Having heard their contrition, the prior favourably admitted and accepted their submission, and received their bodily oaths on the gospels that they will not henceforth violate the liberties and privileges of St Cuthbert, and will not, publicly or secretly, tacitly or expressly, give advice, help, attention and consent to, or embolden any other persons to commit similar wicked deeds in future, and rather will prevent them being committed and will forewarn the prior and his fellow monks in respect thereof, and will perform and carry out the penances imposed for what they have committed, unless otherwise dispensed. This done, the prior enjoined a penance on each of them, that each, wearing linen only, with his head uncovered [and] a candle weighing half a pound in his hand, in the manner of a penitent will walk before the procession to be made by his fellow monks in the church of Durham for one Sunday only, namely, the first, second or third then following, to be chosen by him, and when the procession is finished will devoutly offer the said candle at the altar situated in front of the shrine of St Cuthbert. And of a certain John Robynson of the aforesaid Cocken, stating that he appeared in person before the prior and his fellow monks on the same day before lunch ( “prandium”) in St Nicholas's chapel, situated near the prior's chamber, and submitted himself to the prior's correction for a similar offence, publicly and tearfully confessed by him. A public penance was enjoined upon him in the manner above, with the exception that because of his great contrition he will pass, as above, before the procession in his gown, with his feet and head bare, and wearing linen only, with a candle worth one halfpenny in his hand, will as a pilgrim visit SS John and Godric ( “Gooricum”) in the church of Finchale. According to due form of law, he was absolved of the sentence of greater excommunication, in which he was ensnared for violating the liberty of St Cuthbert.
Date: “on the same day”.
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.36-37.
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f.155v   13 July 1474
[Memorandum] that the corrody in le Maison de dieu, which Nicholas Stamford lately held, was granted to Thomas Smyth'. He had letters in respect thereof in the common form.
Date: 13 July 1474.
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f.155v-156r   30 June 1474
Record of submission by {Lionel Claxton}, gentleman, stating that on 30 June 1474 he, judicially charged, appeared in person in the chapel, situated outside the inner gate of the manor of Bearpark, before the prior sitting tribunally there around the sixth hour after mid-day concerning a violation of the liberties and privileges of St Cuthbert, granted to his church and monks by the popes. After certain articles, in which he wronged them, were laid out and publicly declared to him by the prior, he confessed them, declaring himself guilty, and sought {pardon} (over erasure) from the prior and his fellow monks, submitting himself to the prior's correction, offering to make satisfaction for them as far as possible and in accordance with the judgement of six gentlemen previously chosen for this, as was said, with the consent of the parties named. That done, the prior accepted his submission and absolved him in due form of law from the sentence of greater excommunication, in which he was ensnared by reason of the aforementioned, and enjoined the following salutary penance on him, namely, that on one Sunday, with bare feet, legs and head, [dressed] in a gown (described), with one candle weighing half a pound in his hand, to walk in the manner of a penitent before the procession to be made in the cathedral by his fellow monks of the chapter, when he was lawfully admonished and summoned. When the procession has finished, he will devoutly and contritely offer and leave the said candle at the altar situated in front of the shrine of St Cuthbert. He subsequently promised on plighted faith before a great multitude of persons standing by that he will never commit these or similar offences against the liberties of privileges of St Cuthbert, nor in any way arrange for them to be committed, but will obstruct and resist others who are proposing to act in such a manner.
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f.156r   26 July 1474
Memorandum that the corrody in the hospital of Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, which John Butiler lately held, was granted to Thomas Barton', mason. He had letters in respect thereof in the common form.
Date: 26 July 1474.
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f.156r   2 August [1474]
[Memorandum] that two quittances were issued in the proper form, one for Mr Lionel Widivyle, provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, for the receipt of 33s 4d, owed for the term of Pentecost last past and paid in part payment of a certain yearly pension of five marks, and the other for Mr Edmund Mynskipp, rector of the church of Walkington, for a payment of 50s, owed to the office of chamberlain for the said term and received in part payment of a certain yearly pension of 100s owed to the same office.
Date: 2 August “in the aforesaid preceding year”.
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f.156r   12 August 1474
[Memorandum] that the corrody in le Maison de dieu, which a certain John Butiler lately held, was granted [by Richard Bell prior of Durham] to Alice Bell', gentlewoman. She obtained letters in respect thereof in the customary form.
Date: 12 August 1474.
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f.156r   30 September 1474
Memorandum that three letters of removal were issued in the common form, one for [removing] Robert Billyngham [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to Lytham, the second for [removing] John Lethom [monk of Durham] from Finchale to Jarrow, and the third for [removing] John Roland' [monk of Durham] from the monastery [of Durham] to Finchale.
Date: 30 September 1474.
Marginal caption incomplete: it only mentions the letters to Robert Billyngham.
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f.156r   8 October 1474
Memorandum that a quittance was issued in the common form to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne for the payment of £9 3s 4d, owed to the prior and chapter of Durham for the term of Michaelmas last past by reason of a yearly pension.
Date: 8 October 1474.
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f.156r-157r   31 August [?1474]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Peter de Mellinis), stating that he has recently received his letters, written at Rome on 5 April 1474, from which it is evident that he diligently laboured to execute the prior's business and promised to work unceasingly towards the desired end, for which the prior thanks him.
He entreats him, whether or not the king writes to the pope about preferring the prior to the church of Chichester, to make entreaty to the pope for reservation or provision to be made to the prior, with the advice and help of the very reverend father, Rothom' [? the archbishop of Rouen / Thomas Rotherham bishop of Lincoln ??], the prior's special lord (to whom he recommends himself), and of his other proctors and friends who wish to cooperate with Peter, at the risk of the prior [breaking] the statute called praemunire. He reckons this would be pleasing to the pope.
If, by means of the aforesaid Rothom', this business perhaps arrives at the desired result, they are to know that, with the aforementioned reservation or provision obtained under the authority of the pope at the prior's expense and remaining with him [Rothom'] or any certain deputy of his, the prior will speedily make provision for the 100 ducats [? c. £20] which are noted down in Peter's letter and are to be sent to him [Rothom'] for [his] efforts in this matter, along with the expenses necessary to obtain the reservation or provision, according to the information given to him by Mr James Bonelett. The prior wishes him to inform and make a promise to him [Rothom'] of all this on the prior's behalf.
He understood with great sorrow from his letter that he received only 9 ducats [£1 17s. 6d.] in the bank de Spinellis from the 24 ducats of English money [£5 2s.], each worth 4s 2d, which were deposited in the bank of John de Bardis by the prior's deputed nuncio, in payment of his fee of 40s, which remains unpaid for two years.
Although he is not being blamed, the prior greatly commiserates.
The truth of the matter having been investigated, his aforesaid nuncio, who was by chance with the prior after Peter's letter was received, deposited in full and swore that on the prior's behalf he deposited the 24 ducats, which were to be sent to Peter for the aforementioned [purposes], in the bank of John de Bardis. He adds and willingly swears that the aforesaid banker, if he should remain in London, will be answerable and shortly make satisfaction for the said sum, along with receipts, to the prior's exoneration. Otherwise the nuncio will supply what is wanting from the banker, as is just.
The prior further wishes him to know that, in order to convey this to his hands more securely, he caused another 24 ducats, similar to the previous ones, to be deposited in the same bank before Michaelmas for his fee in this present year, which has been deservedly doubled [and] is to be paid to him at Michaelmas coming, according to the prior's promise.
He entreats him not to attempt or introduce anything burdensome to the prior or monastery in the cause of Coldingham, but rather to defend and preserve it, with its dependencies, in the same state or better, if possible, considering that on account of the gravity of the expenditure in the same cause, which can at present be reckoned at £1000, and on account of certain misfortunes which beset him more than usual, the monastery is at present so impoverished that he is unable to prosecute the said cause further, until better fortune is had.
He asks him to keep, or cause to be safely kept, their muniments and all and sundry privileges remaining with him for the use and benefit of the monastery.
He asks him to make response on the prior's behalf, with the advice and assent of Mr John Gerona, who along with Peter is the prior's lawfully deputed proctor, to a certain Mr Henry Gillowe, rector of the church of Houghton[-le-Spring], Durham diocese, in a certain pretended cause of a tithe of coal, won in the prior's underground mines, which has been moved and newly attempted against the prior in the consistory court of Durham and is there pending, if the cause should perhaps be devolved to the Roman curia by appeal, probably, as is hoped, in accordance with his privileges. Peter is to make any legitimate defence in that regard and to resist his wickedness, in so far as the prior's rights and privileges permit. He asks him to commend him especially to Mr John Gerona, informing him that he caused his small fee of 40s, which was previously promised him and is to be paid at Martinmas next, to be delivered before the said feast of Michaelmas [!] to Mr John Lascy, his factor in London, as he desired.
Date: Durham, 31 August.
Related letter: DCD Misc.Ch. 1099.
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f.157r   8 September 1474
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Gerona), informing him that for the payment of that small fee of 40s of English money, before promised, to be paid to him at Martinmas next to come, he has sent by his certain nuncio on the date of the presents 12 ducats, worth 4s 2d each of English money, to Mr John Lascy, John Gerona's factor in London, to be conveyed to his hands, as he wishes, {by him}, as Mr Peter de Mellinis will notify him by the prior's letters to him. He implores him, after he has had conversation with the same John, to show the prior favour in these and his other affairs specially committed to Gerona and John Lascy, insofar as possible, saving his fidelity and honour, in accordance with the force and effect of his same letters. The prior has written to his said factor, asking him to send the ducats to him by the fastest route he can.
Date: Durham, 8 September 1474.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.230.
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f.157r   [8 September 1474]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Lascy in London), informing him that he is sending him at this time by Geoffrey Bukley, parson of St Albans in London, 12 ducats [£2 10s.], to be conveyed to Mr Gerona for his fee for this year, ending at Martinmas next to come. He requests him to send it to him with all possible haste to keep his promise.
Date: “as above”.
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f.157r-158r   4 October 1474
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the prior of Stamford), informing him that he has often heard from the report of trustworthy persons, as he knew by experience from his deeds, that since his departure from the prior and the monastery of Durham he boldly attempted without sufficient authority several things contrary to the constitutions and statutes of their religion, at which the prior much marvels:
first, he put to farm the cell of Stamford, over which he presides, with all its income, revenues and profits, to lay persons, prohibited by law, without licence from the prior and chapter, which the said constitutions and statutes prohibit, as evident in the Benedictine statutes, ca. 14.
Likewise, he negligently left his fellow monk, John Kirk, who is associated with him and is deprived of all fellow comfort, to reside by himself in the said cell and to celebrate divine [offices], in breach of the constitutions and statutes, since they provide that the priors and administrators of property of their order cannot reside alone; therefore monks subject to them a fortiori should not remain alone, as evident in the same constitutions, ca. 25.
Likewise, as is presumed, he boldly granted to a religious of another order or a secular priest authority and licence to hear the confessions of the said monk, resident in the cell, during the prior of Stamford's absence, against the canonical sanctions and common law, without having sought and obtained licence from the subprior, which is not lawful for him to do except in time of need and at the point of death.
Likewise, contrary to the prior's licence, granted to him from grace and favour, to attend the schools in Oxford University for the period of a month four times a year, until he attained a bachelor's degree, he has taken up continuous residence in person in the university, to the prejudice of the cell, in contempt of the prior's wish and as a pernicious example to others.
Unwilling to tolerate these further, the prior requests and urges and, in virtue of the obedience binding him to the prior, admonishes him, having given up the university, to go to the said cell with his bedding and goods, within one month of this letter being presented to him, and to take up continuous residence there in person, in accordance with the aforesaid constitutions and statutes, until he has another mandate from him, and to endeavour to carry out all else touching the state of the cell and what is incumbent on him by virtue of his appointment. He commands him in the next general chapter to render an account of all receipts and expenses of the cell since his last accounting before him and his fellow monks, and to cause the alleged said lease to be revoked as quickly as possible, as he should wish to avoid a sign of disobedience and contempt, mindful that, according to the statute of Northampton, ca. 6, any religious who, after he has made his profession, discards his habit or, in stubbornly resisting the mandates of the rule, disdains to obey his prelate, is judged disobedient; whether he was admitted and instituted by the pope or by the local ordinary, he is nevertheless obliged to obey his prelate and be subject to his corrections, ordinances, punishments and statutes and can for reasonable cause be deprived by the same prelate and removed from the administration committed to him, as evident in the constitutions and statutes, ca. 32. He therefore informs him that if he readily obeys his aforementioned lawful warnings and mandates, it will be to his advantage.
Date: Durham, 4 October 1474.
Marginal note next to the first “likewise” : “second”.
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f.158r-v   24 September 1474
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Poteman), informing him that whereas Mr William Layburn', at his request and special command and those of various other men pertaining to the archbishop of York, on Poteman's and their behalf desired him, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham to be bound to the king in a bond for a substantial sum under many, various conditions of defeasance, to help bring the archbishop out of baile and thraldom to liberty. Since he could not make any grant in this matter without the full assent of his fellow monks, he called them together and after much discussion between them, they said unanimously that they were at all times disposed to do anything which might please the archbishop, but considering the insupportable expenses they have had in plea at the court of Rome and elsewhere to recover their rights and livelihood, along with the reparations and loss of their temporal goods and cattle, as is well known to the entire country, and especially considering the rebuilding of their steeple and the aforesaid conditions with the instability customary in this world now more than before, which are burdensome and dangerous to them and all others, they dare not undertake at this time to seal such an obligation for fear of the dangers that may ensue. He therefore beseeches the archbishop, Poteman and all his other officers to excuse them; if there is anything else they can do for the archbishop, he shall find them as well disposed thereto as any poor men of their religion in his province.
Date: Durham, 24 September 1474.
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f.158v   4 October 1474
Memorandum that one letter was issued by the prior in the common form to the warden of Durham College Oxford, for the admission of John Raw, son of William Raw of the county of Northallerton, as scholar of the college, for whom the same William Raw and William Halyman are bound to pay £20 at Pentecost next to come, as evident in the bond made in respect thereof, with the condition inserted in the manner and form above.
Date: 4 October 1474.
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f.158v   3 November 1474
Letter of confraternity and consorority by Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, to John, lord le Scrope of Bolton, and Elizabeth, his consort; Henry, his son, and Mary, his daughter, his lawfully procreated children, repaying them for the devotion and affection which they have for the monastery of Durham, which the prior and chapter know plainly and have experienced from their deeds, by admitting them to the spiritual brethren and sisters of the chapter and granting them special participation in perpetuity in all masses, vigils, fasts, orisons [etc.] and all good works in the monastery of Durham and its dependent cells, with prayers for them, just as for their other spiritual brethen and sisters, for all time after their deaths, once the prior and chapter have certain knowledge thereof.
Date: the chapter house, Durham, 3 November [14]74.
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f.158v   [3 November 1474]
Memorandum that a letter of confraternity was issued to Robert Foster, gentleman, staying in London, according to the common form, as evident above.
Date: “the same day, place, month and year preceding”.
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f.158v-159r    17 November [1474]
[Memorandum], that it should be known that three quittances were issued, one directed to Mr Lionel Widivyle [provost of Hemingbrough *] concerning a payment of 33s 4d owed for the term of Martinmas last past, the second to Mr Edmund Mynskip, rector of the church of Walkington, for a payment of 50s owed for the same term, and the third to Thomas Rudd, vicar of the church of Welton, for a payment of 20s by reason of a pension owed for the term of Pentecost last past, and a fourth for the same Thomas Rudd, for the payment of 20s owed and customarily paid for the said term of Martinmas.
Date: 17 November { “in the above year”}.
* See f.156r above.
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f.159r   13 November 1474
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued in the common form, as above, one for [removing] John Roys [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to the cell of Finchale, and the other for [removing] John Rowland [monk of Durham] from Finchale to Wearmouth.
Date: 13 November 1474.
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f.159r   15 December 1474
[Memorandum] that the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which John Wilkynson' held when alive, was granted to Joan, wife of Richard More of Durham. She had letters in respect thereof in the usual form.
Date: 15 December 1474.
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f.159r   [15 December 1474]
[Memorandum] that the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain Joan Colyer' held when alive, was granted to Katherine Claxton. He had letters testimonial in respect thereof in the customary form.
Date: “the same day and year”.
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f.159r-v   18 December [?1474]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Patrick Home), whereas he understands, not only from the report of [the bishop] of Durham but also from his proctors, bearers hereof, that, notwithstanding that he has, by might of temporal power and by way of intrusion (as is openly said) previously entered and occupied without title of right the cell and lordship of Coldingham, long ago granted by way of alms and devotion to the monastery of Durham, and excluded the prior and his fellow monks against right and conscience, as is well known, at great trouble and expense in plea to them, he is now moved through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and the prayer of St Cuthbert, by way of right and especially to make satisfaction for the great offence he has committed, to renounce forever all rights, titles, causes, proceedings, appeals, bulls and evidence which he has procured against them in the court of Rome or elsewhere, and to restore the prior and monks, or their proctor, to the said cell and lordship, and to put them in full possession of it, with its appurtenances, and if necessary to procure a general interdict to that end, to be executed throughout the realm of Scotland. The prior is very glad that he is so disposed, informing him that he will find him willing to fulfil his purpose and to keep any covenants or conditions which they can agree upon to both parties' advantage, with the help of [the bishop]'s wisdom and the good advice of their counsels, at their next meeting in Durham. To have a final agreement between them, [the bishop] has offered to be bound to him for a reasonable sum, as his said proctors can inform him more fully.
Date: Durham, 18 December.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.231-232.
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f.159v   14 January [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of Durham), stating that, considering how he was father and head of the cathedral church [of Durham] and they were his children and members thereof, always striving to pray for his prosperity and welfare, and wishing to obey and fulfil his commands, and to do anything else pleasing to him, he entreats him to be his good lord in all matters which his fellow monks, the terrar and bursar of the monastery [of Durham], in whom he asks him to place confidence, shall declare to him on the prior's behalf, so that he may hereafter peaceably have and enjoy in the same or better form his possessions and freedoms and especially the small jurisdiction, which is committed to the prior as archdeacon in all the churches appropriated to him within his diocese, as the bishop's predecessors did in their time.
Date: Durham, 14 January.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclv-ccclvi.
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f.159v-160r   16 May [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Dr Morton'), informing him that he was recently given to understand that when the king acted as his good lord in a special matter concerning the prior's welfare and honour, Dr Morton withdrew his favour from the prior and showed great unkindness, which the prior would not have expected, considering the true devotion the prior has previously borne him, and especially because in his utmost tribulation the prior undertook to present his letters, as he wished, to [the bishop] of Durham and lord Montagew, who at this time held great sway within this land, as Dr Morton knows well. To make satisfaction for such unkindness, the prior entreats him to recall two bonds by which he is bound to make full payment to the prior, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham of 300 marks, previously loaned to Margaret, late queen of England. After considering their present great need, because of the insupportable expenditure they have made in plea at the court of Rome for their cell of Coldingham in Scotland, and the removal of their cattle by the thieves of Tynedale, the loan of notable sums of money and the rebuilding of their steeple, which is begun but not finished for want of goods, he would provide some means by which the prior and his fellow monks may easily be fully satisfied of the said sum without any plea so that they have no cause to complain for want of payment to the high estates above [them] to make suit in places where justice may be obtained. He asks him to certify him in writing by Geoffrey Bukley, bearer hereof, of his favourable disposition and encouraging answer so that he can conduct himself accordingly.
Date: Durham, 16 May.
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f.160r   27 February 1475
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to John {Acly} [monk of Durham]), stating that, although he previously sent him, then manifoldly troubled by various bodily infirmities, to the cell of Holy Island for recreation, or, more accurately, to recover his health, [and] to stay there for a time, for certain legitimate reasons he commands him to reside in person in the cell as a brother or fellow thereof, until he has a further mandate from him. He is to show the presents to the prior thereof so that he admits him and shows him kindness.
Date: Durham, 27 February 1474/5.
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f.160r   [27 February 1475]
[Memorandum] that another two letters of removal were issued in the common form, one for [removing] John Waldow [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to the monastery [of Durham] and the other for [removing] Thomas Genour [monk of Durham] from Holy Island of the cell of Finchale.
Date: “the same day and year”.
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f.160r-v   23 March 1475
Grant by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham, to Edmund Bell, his servant, and Alice Bell, widow, mother of Edmund, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in the hospital of Mary Magdalene near the hospital of Kepier, which a certain Thomas Barton, mason, held, vacant through Thomas's death, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them. They are to receive what any brother or sister thereof, staying within or outside the hospital, receives, provided they keep the statutes [etc.] thereof. If they should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or marry again, without previously having sought and obtained licence from the prior or his successors, then he wills that he or she be deprived of all the aforementioned in perpetuity. He grants them licence to stay outside the hospital in some respectable place for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them.
Date: Durham, 23 March 1474/5.
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f.160v-161r   30 January 1475
Letter by Richard, prior of Durham, to all and sundry abbots, priors, archdeacons, deacons, canons, prebendaries, portionaries, wardens of hospitals, rectors, vicars and other curates of the churches and chapels in Durham city and diocese, especially those who should and from of old are accustomed to pay the royal tenth, stating that King Edward [IV], by his privy letters recently directed to the prior, commanded him to take care to make provision for one whole tenth for the king in his urgent need, to be paid without further delay by the prior and the addressees (with the latter's help) to the barons of his exchequer in London before the feast of St Peter's chair next [22 February], although it has not yet been granted (or more accurately is to be granted) by the coming convocation of the clergy of York province. Considering that, as the other difficult matters which daily afflict him are ongoing, he is unable to make such provision from the goods of the monastery of Durham or his own resources without their help, he requests them, insofar as it touches them and their benefices, to help with this tenth, to be paid, as aforementioned, at the king's pleasure. To that end he resolved that his servant, Oliver Yonger, bearer of the presents and his specially deputed receiver, should be sent with the presents, in whom they should place confidence in what he says on the prior's behalf [and] to whom in this present necessity they should pay the accustomed tenth, as they wish to please the king. They are to know that in the collection of such tenths, to be made by the prior on the king's authority and mandate, he promises to make due allowances for such payments to all and sundry of them willing to pay the tenth to the prior or his aforesaid nuncio, or to repay from his own goods everything paid by them on this occasion and to keep them immune [from loss] under his bond.
Date: Durham, 30 January 1474/5.
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f.161r   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Robert Mason'), recalling to him how, in the matter of the plea newly attempted in the consistory of Durham by Mr Henry (“Herry”) Gillow, parson of Houghton[-le-Spring] against the prior and his fellow monks concerning the coal tithe of Le wood, Robert desired a continuance, in a certain form and upon certain conditions, to the last consistory next after Candlemas; both the said parties consented to this, trusting he would then be here in person to have the matter well directed and finally concluded to the advantage of both parties. Considering that Robert was so occupied at that session with various great matters concerning the king's well-being that he might not come, the prior therefore excuses him, notwithstanding that Mr Henry, as is said, is utterly determined to proceed against them without further delay at the next consistory, which will be Monday next after St Gregory next [13 March, assuming the year is 1475], the prior entreats him to act as his chief counsel in that and all other matters, and to send him his advice as to how the prior's proctors here shall respond to Henry's libel, one part of which remains with Mr William Laybron', also of his counsel. The prior will duly keep the promise he previously made Robert to be of his counsel. To that end he sends him with the bearer hereof a gowncloth of such poor livery as he was accustomed to give and 20s, asking him to receive it as if it were better. In addition to his fee, Robert shall be satisfied of his future travelling expenses in this matter.
Date: “etc.”
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.37-38.
Digitised version

f.161r-v   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the abbot of St Mary's York), beseeching him to give full credence to Mr William Laybron' in such matters as he shall now declare to him on the prior's behalf, and to advise and help him therein.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.38.
Digitised version

f.161v   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Poteman'), whereas Mr Henry (Herry) Gillow, parson of Houghton[-le-Spring], has lately taken an action against the prior and his fellow monks before the next consistory to be held in the Galilee of Durham [cathedral] for withholding coal tithes, which, he claims, should belong to him and his said church. The prior beseeches him that in the event that the said matter, by appeal or otherwise, comes to his hands hereafter, as the prior trusts it shortly will, to bestow his favour on them and to inform Mr William Laybron' of such persons he thinks most advantageous to be his proctors to defend the prior before him in the said matter, if required.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.161v   8 February [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Richard, duke of Gloucester), beseeching him to will the archbishop of York, the prior's metropolitan, to act as good lord to the prior and monastery in all matters that may in future concern the archbishop regarding them, so that at the duke's special request, they may find him better disposed to do them favour in the aforesaid matters, when required. He beseeches him to give credence in all other things which his fellow monk, Thomas Haughton', bearer hereof, shall by his licence declare to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 8 February.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclvi.
Digitised version

f.161v-162r   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Poteman), whereas he is given to understand that certain persons, men of great honour pertaining to the archbishop of York, his metropolitan, are utterly determined to make entreaty to the archbishop and William to make the prior and his fellow monks collectors of the king's tenths when they are granted in Yorkshire, because of the churches appropriated to them and the monastery of Durham in the same shire. God forbid that any such charges or inconveniences be put to them now more than before without them causing greater offence, which he trusts they have not. He beseeches him, in the event any such things are maliciously proposed or attempted aganst them, to intercede with the archbishop to act as their good lord and at William's request not to put them to such great inconveniences and insupportable expense. In the event the archbishop was by means of these persons disposed to do so, as they trust he is not, both they and their monastery in time would be utterly destroyed forever. Moreover, it would cause great talk among high estates who hold them and the said place in great affection.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.162r-v   26 May 1475
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr John Burton), informing him that on 23 May he received his letters from Kingston-on-Hull [E.R. Yorks.], issued on 18 May inst. and, having seen them, understood that he had not only been diligent and solicitous on behalf of the prior and his fellow monks in better promoting and defending the causes and affairs of the monastery of Durham in the Roman curia, as the prior has learned from long experience, but also to that end had been bound on behalf of the prior and monastery for notable sums of money received as a loan in various banks; the prior thanks him for all this. Concerning the last loan, about which he wrote to the prior, which was entered into, as is pretended, by Richard, lately his fellow monk (although an ungrateful one, greatly deviating from the rule of his profession), the prior was astonished since he has not heard of it either from him or John in the three years since the authority assigned to him to contract a loan was revoked, and marvels greatly that such a loan exists. Since he was silent about this and neglected his obedience and faith to the prejudice and scandal of the prior, the prior grieves that he had sent such a proctor or (more accurately) a profligate deceiver, who, as he fears, is about to destroy the monastery with his fraud and malice unless God should avert [it]. Since, as the prior is given to understand, he formerly wrote to a certain friend, threatening the prior and his fellow monks thus: the prior and chapter, he said, should beware of future contingencies and especially lest Peter de Millinis, their proctor, put their causes in abeyance and especially lest they shortly lose 10,000 ducats [? c. £2,000] in the Roman curia. From these threatening assertions, the prior fears that he, exceeding his authority and by way of confirming his saying, fraudulently entered into and put to profane use the aforesaid loan of 100 ducats [? c. £20] and many others unknown to the prior.
Date: Durham, 26 May 1475.
Digitised version

f.162v   8 January 1476
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the duke of Gloucester), beseeching him to pray the king to require the archbishop of York, his metropolitan, to act as a good lord to him and the monastery [of Durham], and also to desire the archbishop to do the same, so that the prior hereafter finds the archbishop, at the king's command and the duke's request, to be better disposed to do him favour in all matters concerning him and the monastery. He beseeches the duke to give full credence to his fellow monk, Thomas Haughton', bearer hereof, in all other things which he shall by his licence declare to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, 8 January 1475/6.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclvii.
Digitised version

f.163r   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Poteman), whereas he is informed that certain men of honour belonging to the archbishop of York, his metropolitan, are disposed to cause the archbishop and William, his vicar general, to make the prior a collector of the king's tenths in Yorkshire, because of the churches appropriated to him and the monastery of Durham in the same shire, which has never before been heard of. He therefore beseeches him to remember the affection and friendly communication that has previously existed between him and William, and, in the event that any such insuppportable charges are attempted or imagined against the prior, to intercede with the archbishop to act as his good lord and not to overburden him with such things, other than as he and his predecessors have previously done. In case the archbishop was by their means disposed to do so, which the prior trusts he is not, it would be a means shortly of utterly destroying the prior and the monastery forever. It would cause great talk among the high estates of this land who hold him and the said place in great favour. The prior therefore prays him to favour and assist them, as he has done before, in this case and all others.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.163r-v   1 April [?1475]
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Poteman), thanking him for his long-standing kindness towards the prior, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham, and especially for this: when those who have no great love for them thought to cause the archbishop of York, his metropolitan, by their labour and wrong suggestions to be displeased with them and their place, and to charge them with gathering the king's tenths in Yorkshire because of the small income which belongs to them there, William moved and counselled the archbishop to the contrary and to be their good lord, (as he ever has been) as the prior understands not only by his letter, which he has directed to the prior for Mr James Preston', but also for the good report which William lately made at Blyth to his fellow monk, Thomas Haughton', terrar of their place. For this and for the sound advice he sends to the prior by Thomas of his conduct at the time of the archbishop's coming to cuntry, the prior and his fellow monks are evermore obliged to be his bedesmen and to do anything which may please him in future. It was a comfort to them to understand that the archbishop is their good lord. He informs him further that Mr Henry (“Herry”) Gillowe, parson of Houghton[-le-Spring] is fully determined to pursue his action recently attempted against them in the consistory of Durham, which the prior trusts will shortly come by appeal to William's hands to be determined. He therefore beseeches him to do justice for them (“to do us law with favour”) and to counsel Mr William Laybron' at his coming to him to see that all such persons as the prior has taken to be of his counsel in that matter and all others are true to him, that he may have cause to thank them and pay them their fees hereafter according to their labour, to which they shall find the prior well disposed.
Date: “etc.” 1 April.
Digitised version

f.163v-164r    16 September 1475
Letter of attorney by Richard, prior of Durham, appointing Gervase Clyfton, esquire, as his attorney, to seek and exact, levy and receive 80 marks, from any executors, or administrators of property, of the last will or testament of Richard Sutton', esquire, recently deceased. When alive, Richard unjustly received the 80 marks without any title of right from the prior's predecessor, Mr John Burneby, for a certain release, made to his said predecessor, of a right and {claim} which he alleged he had in the advowson of the church of Roddington, York diocese, as the same Richard, dying, publicly confessed to his same executors and other bystanders; in his said testament Richard, repentant, willed and ordered, as the prior accepted, that the 80 marks be fully restored and paid to the prior, if his goods are sufficient [to meet] this and the other charges incumbent on him, if this was to be treated and compounded in a friendly manner with the prior for the salvation of his soul; and also to treat, compound and come to an agreement and conclusion, in whole or in part, with the same executors concerning all these; to seek, levy and receive what has been granted to the prior by such agreement or composition; and to acquit the aforesaid executors for what has been received and levied; if necessary, to implead or prosecute before any judges, spiritual or temporal, the same executors who refuse to pay such debts or grants; and to carry out all else necessary and required de iure, even if it requires a special mandate.
Date: Durham, 16 September 1475.
Digitised version

f.164r-v   18 May 1475
Proxy by Richard, prior of Durham, appointing his fellow monk, Thomas Caly, subprior thereof, to appear as proctor on his behalf before Thomas, abbot of the monastery of SS Peter and Hild of Whitby, of the Benedictine order, of York diocese, specially deputed by the presidents of the last provincial chapter of the order of black monks to visit all and sundry abbots and priors of monasteries and convents of the same order within York province, or before his deputed commissaries, in his visitation which is to be begun in the chapter house of the church of Durham on 24 May inst. and to be carried out (if fitting) and concluded there (with the proctor's specific responsibilities described].
Date: 18 May 1475.
Digitised version

f.164v   [?1475]
Commission to induct by Richard, prior of Durham, archdeacon in the churches and chapels appropriated to him and the monastery of Durham in Durham city and diocese, to Mr John Alcok, B.Cn. & C.L., Mr John Spicer, M.A., and parochial chaplain of the church of Norham, stating that Lawrence, bishop of Durham, had recently commanded him without delay to induct, or cause to be inducted by another, Ralph Vasy, priest, or his proctor as vicar of the church of Norham, who on the bishop's authority has been canonically admitted and instituted therein, into the corporal possession of the vicarage thereof, and committing to them his authority to induct the same Ralph or his suitable proctor in due form of law, requesting them duly to certify him at a suitable place and time of all they have done regarding the aforementioned.
Date: “etc.”
Digitised version

f.164v-165r   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr William Laybron'), informing him that Mr Henry Gillowe, parson of Houghton[-le-Spring], has taken an action against the prior and his fellow monks in the consistory of Durham for the coal tithes of his mines at Finchale and Rainton, and whereas the prior trusts this matter will shortly come by appeal to the court of York, to be determined there or at Rome, he prays him to commend [the prior] to the abbot of St Mary's [York] and to Mr William Poteman, official of the said court, beseeching them on the prior's behalf to favour and help him and his fellow monks in this and all other matters; on their good advice William Laybron' is to provide the prior and monks with three or four advocates belonging to the said court, as are most cunning and advantageous to defend him in this matter. If they and William Laybron think it expedient, the prior would especially wish to have Mr Robert Mason, doctor, for chief advocate, if it pleases him to undertake this out of affection for the monastery and for an adequate fee with a reward (putting aside any unfriendliness that has previously been between him and the prior), in the event that he is not of his said adversary's counsel or fee. The prior prays William Laybron to be one of his said proctors, and to provide him with others, according to his and the advocates' judgement. After discussion between him and the said proctors, he is to send word speedily in writing to the prior of their favourable disposition, so that the prior can conduct himself accordingly. He informs him that in his letter to the abbot the prior desired him to give credence to William in what he is to say to him on the prior's behalf.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.38-39.
Digitised version

f.165r   [?1475]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Thomas Metham and Mr Saltmarssh), whereas he is informed that there are certain persons dwelling in Howden and Howdenshire, where he is ordinary and has ordinary jurisdiction, who are obstinate towards the church and will not pay Peter's pence to his officers or the curates, as other well-disposed men have done, of which he and his predecessors have been peaceably possessed from time out of mind, but threaten them to the extent that they dare not demand it or duly exercise his jurisdiction for fear of their lives, without better support from him and other gentlemen of the area, as Mr William Laybron', his official of the said jurisdiction, can more fully inform him. The prior beseeches them to be good masters to his said officers and curates of the jurisdiction, supporting them, not only in demanding, gathering, receiving and pursuing the said pence which are due, but also in keeping his jurisdiction.
Date: Durham, “etc.”
Digitised version

f.165r-v   18 June 1475
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of his fellow monk, William Law, B.Th., as prior or warden of [Durham] College Oxford, since for certain reasonable and legitimate causes he resolved that his fellow monk, Mr Robert Ebchestr', S.T.P., prior or warden thereof, should be discharged from its care and administration on 22 September next, so that, when 22 September has passed, William receives the rule and keeping thereof, with authority to govern the college, with all and sundry pertaining to it both within and without, to regulate his fellow monks and other secular scholars, and to correct the latter if they transgress and, if required, to expel them at his discretion and in accordance with the statutes thereof, with the advice of his fellow monks studying there; and commanding the monks and scholars, present and future, to obey him as prior or warden in all the aforementioned pertaining to them.
Date: Durham, 18 June 1475.
Digitised version

f.165v-166r   24 June 1475
Mandate by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in [North]Allerton and Allertonshire, to his apparitor, William Goodson, stating that on behalf of Richard Rolston, vicar of the church of [North]Allerton, it was made known to him and complaint made that the abbot and convent of Jervaulx, according to a certain friendly agreement entered into with the general consent of the parties and executed between the prior, chapter and vicar of the aforesaid church on the one part and the abbot and convent on the other, are bound, in a certain form and under certain conditions and penalties, to make payment of a certain yearly pension of 40s from the income, revenue and profits of the manor of Lazenby to the then vicar of the church. The abbot and convent of Jervaulx have so far unjustly refused to pay to the aforesaid vicar this pension, owed by right of the church and convent for an entire year, and sought by him with due instance, and have incurred the penalties in the said agreement, to the considerable prejudice of the said vicar. He therefore commands him to warn or cause to be warned the abbot and convent or their proctor, if they put one in the said manor or elsewhere, before their friends and acquaintances there (provided that such warning is likely to come to their notice) either to pay and satisfy him of this pension, which is in arrears, along with damages and arrears, if any, within eight days of the monition, or otherwise to appear, in person or through their proctor, before the keeper of the spirituality of the said liberty in the church of [North]Allerton on Thursday next after the translation of St Thomas the martyr next [6 July], to allege reasonable cause, if any, why all and sundry income [etc.] belonging to them by reason of the manor should not be sequestrated by the prior because of the non-payment of the pension to the true valuation thereof, in accordance with the said agreement, and kept under safe and secure sequestration. They are to do and accept what is just and fair in all the aforementioned. Along with [reciting] the presents, he is duly to certify the said keeper on the abovesaid day and place as to how he has executed the present mandate.
Date: 24 June 1475.
Digitised version

f.166r   6 July 1475
Sequestration by Richard “as above” [prior of Durham, ordinary etc.], addressed to William Halyman and Thomas Foxton, chaplains celebrating masses and other divine services in the church of Northallerton, stating that, since the abbot and convent of Jervaulx, having the manor and chantry of Lazenby, with its appurtenances, to their own use, who have been warned and requested by him to [make] payment of a certain yearly pension of 40s, which is in arrears for one entire year and is owed and customarily paid, along with the arrears, damages and expenses due, to the prior and the vicar of the church by right of an agreement made in respect thereof, have so far refused to pay this, the prior therefore, in accordance with the authority bestowed on him, resolved that the income, revenue and profits pertaining to the abbot and convent by reason of the said manor of Lazenby, to the value at least or the valuation of the said pension, which is in arrears, along with the arrears, damages and expenses, be sequestrated by decree, in accordance with the aforesaid agreement, and commits the keeping of sequestrated property to them. He therefore commands them to announce or cause to be announced that this sequestration, as is aforementioned, had thus been imposed in the church of [North]Allerton and the chapel of Lazenby, publicly inhibiting all and sundry persons, whom right requires be inhibited, from interfering with the income [etc.] thus sequestrated under penalty of law, with the sequestration pending.
Date: Durham, 6 July 1475.
Digitised version

f.166r-v   27 June 1475
Commission by Richard “as above”, to William Barton, chaplain, stating that, since, as the prior has learned, the chantry of St Thomas the martyr in the collegiate church of Howden, belonging to his collation and jurisdiction, has for a long time been vacant and is presently unprovided with services, whose income, revenues and farms of houses during the vacancy are known by right and custom to pertain to the prior or more accurately to his disposal as ordinary and patron thereof, the prior therefore, willing and decreeing that such income, revenues, profits and farms not yet levied, in whosesoever hands they are, be entirely put to the use and benefit of the said chantry, as soon as they can be levied, he commits to him authority to seek, levy and receive all and sundry income [etc.], in arrears and not yet paid, from any tenants and farmers thereof and, if necessary, for the same to take legal action, to implead and recover them, to acquit those paying them, to keep what has been sought, received [etc.] for the use and benefit of the chantry, in accordance with the prior's disposal and will, and to render an account for them, and to do and carry out all else necessary or required de iure.
Sealed on the prior's special mandate with the seal of the keeper of the said spirituality for want of the prior's great seal.
Date: Durham, 27 June 1475.
Digitised version

f.166v   1 June 1475
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to John Smyth', lately of Witton [Gilbert], and Joan, his wife, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain Joan Parissh' held when alive, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them. They are to receive what any brother or sister thereof staying within the hospital receives, provided they keep all the statutes [etc.] thereof; if they should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or remarry, without having previously sought and obtained licence from the prior or his successors, then he wills that he or she be deprived in perpetuity of all and sundry thus granted to them.
Date: Durham, 1 June [14]75.
Digitised version

f.166v   15 August 1475
Memorandum that on 15 August 1475 John Grene [monk of Durham] was removed from the cell of Finchale to Holy Island, and William Brown [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to the monastery of Durham. On the same day Richard Blakwell' [monk of Durham] {was} appointed cellarer of the said cell of Finchale and had a letter in the common form in respect thereof.
Digitised version

f.166v-167r   18 August 1475
Collation by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Robert Ludwyn, chaplain, of the chantry of St Mary in the parish and collegiate church of Howden, York diocese, vacant by the promotion of John Jakson alias Todden', last chaplain or keeper thereof, to the chantry of St Cuthbert therein.
Date: Durham, 18 August 1475.
Digitised version

f.167r-v   5 September 1475
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to William Whelpdale and Margaret, his wife, with the unanimous consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the hospital of St Mary Magdalene, situated near the hospital of Kepier, which John Emmotson' just obtained, as soon as it should happen to be vacant by the death of John or in any other legitimate way, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them, provided they (or one of them) may take and hold possession of the said corrody on the authority of these letters when, as aforesaid, it should be vacant, for as long as they are alive. They are to receive what any brother or sister thereof, staying within or without receives, provided that he or she shows these letters to the then almoner of the monastery of Durham before taking possession in the said hospital by virtue of this grant, so that, when the occasion arises, the almoner receives and admits him or her as brother or sister thereof, to submit to and carry out all the statutes [etc.], according to the custom of the place. If after the aforementioned it should perhaps happen that they do not carry out the statutes [etc.] or commit fornication or adultery or remarry, without having previously sought and obtained licence from the prior or his successors, then he wills that he or she be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to them. He grants them licence to stay in some respectable place situated outside the hospital for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them.
Date: Durham, 5 September 1475.
Digitised version

f.167v   27 October 1475
Memorandum that John A[c]ley [monk of Durham] was recalled from Holy Island to the monastery of Durham and Thomas Bolt [monk of Durham] was removed from the monastery to Holy Island. They had {letters} of removal in the common form in respect thereof.
Date: 27 October 1475.
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f.167v   12 November 1475
Memorandum that Richard, prior of Durham, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, granted to the gentlewoman, Margaret Whitfeld', the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain woman (name blank) held while alive. She had letters in the common form in respect thereof.
Date: 12 November 1475.
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f.167v   3 February 1476
Memorandum that Thomas Stayndrope [monk of Durham] was removed from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Finchale, and John Ryton [monk of Durham] from Finchale to the monastery. They had letters in respect thereof in the usual form.
Date: 3 February 1475/6.
Digitised version

f.167v   4 February 1476
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to William Whelpdale and Margaret, his wife, of Durham, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which a certain Alice Tendell', the late mother of the said Margaret, held while alive, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them. They are to receive what any brother or sister thereof staying within the hospital receives, provided they keep all the statutes [etc.] thereof; if they should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or remarry, without having previously sought and obtained licence from the prior or his successors, then he wills that he or she be deprived in perpetuity of all and sundry above granted to them.
Date: 4 February 1475/6.
Digitised version

f.167v-168r   16 March 1476
Commission by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Mr William Laybron', B.Cn. & C.L., committing authority to him to act in various probate matters (detailed), to take cognisance of, proceed, determine and execute what he has determined in any causes, affairs, suits and complaints of his subjects, moved or to be moved before him ex officio mero vel promoto, or at the instance of the parties, to make inquiry into, punish and correct any transgressions and offences to persons and property in the jurisdiction, and to impose punishment on offending subjects, and to induct any persons who have been presented to any benefices of the said jurisdiction, and of the prior's and chapter's patronage or collation, and lawfully admitted and instituted into the corporal possession thereof, and to defend those inducted. The prior appoints him keeper of the jurisdiction of his said spirituality. The presents are to last at the prior's pleasure only.
Date: Durham, 16 March 1475/6.
Digitised version

f.168r-v   [March ?1476]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the earl of Northumberland), whereas he has lately written to the prior both for the promotion of his chaplain, Mr William Rowkshawe, B.D., to a prebend in the collegiate church of Howden, newly vacant by the death of Mr Walter Bukke, and for the bailiffship of Hemingbrough, now vacant by the death of the late bailiff thereof, to be granted to him for his servant, the prior certifies him that touching the said prebend, he and his fellow monks granted it on the third of this present month of March to Mr John Lilford, doctor of law, according to the promise they made eleven years ago to him; the prior therefore canonot fulfil his wish at this time, beseeching him to excuse the prior and not to be displeased. The prior informs him that they have granted to various persons the two other prebends which will next come vacant in the said church, from which they may not honourably deviate, notwithstanding that [the duke] of Gloucester lately wrote to him for a prebend to be granted to a clerk of his within the said church. Touching the bailiffship of Hemingbrough, he beseeches him to name a man thereto who can be considered most suitable both in his person and behaviour, and also most advantageous to the prior, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham. As soon as he is informed of his name, he will have a sufficient writing made to him thereupon, in a similar form as his predecessors had before.
Date: “etc.” [March, as mentioned above]
Digitised version

f.168v   3 March [?1476]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Robert Wilson), thanking him for his letter and for his great diligence at the time of the prior's election, as the prior knows well, for which he is grateful. However, touching the prebend of Skipwith, he is to understand that the prior has previously made a grant at the instance of [the bishop] of Durham eleven years ago to Mr John Lilford of the next prebend to come vacant in the church of Howden, and must now keep his promise to him. Moreover, he and his fellow monks fully intend with one accord to promote Mr William Clayton', and next after him the prior's nephew, Ellis Bell, scholar of Oxford, to the next vacant prebend in the said church. Whereas he writes in his said letter that the prior has made a promise to him that if anything falls vacant in the church, he should remember him before any others, the prior has no memory of this. The prior and his fellow monks are so often called upon in such matters by various lords of high estate that they are not at liberty to distribute such small benefices as are in their gift to their friends as they would like. He asks him to excuse him and not to be displeased that he cannot fulfil his [wish].
Date: Durham, 3 March.
Digitised version

f.169r   23 April 1476
Memorandum that a certain special commission of Richard, prior of Durham, archdeacon in all and sundry churches and chapels appropriated to him and the chapter in Durham city and diocese, was issued, directed in due form of law to John Aukland', B.Th., [monk of Durham and] prior of Holy Island, to visit, whenever necessary, such churches and chapels throughout the archdeaconry of Northumberland only, provided canon law does not stand in the way, to make inquiry into and reform any faults and transgressions of the churches and chapels, and the parishioners and subjects thereof, and to do and carry out all else necessary and fitting with regard to the aforementioned, with the power of canonical coercion, to last at the prior's pleasure only.
Date: 23 April 1476.
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f.169r   31 May 1476
Memorandum that four letters were issued according to the common form, dated 31 May 1476, the first for removing William Broun' [monk of Durham] from the monastery [of Durham], the second for William Ogle [monk of Durham] from Jarrow to the monastery, dated 1 May 1476, the third for Thomas Gynour [monk of Durham] from Finchale to Stamford, [and] the fourth for John Kirke [monk of Durham] from Stamford to Finchale.
Digitised version

f.169r   31 May 1476
Memorandum that three letters were issued according to the common form, dated 31 May 1476, the first for removing John Riall' [monk of Durham] from Lytham to Holy Island, the second for Richard Tanfeld [monk of Durham] from Farne to Lytham and the third for Thomas Bolt [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Farne.
Digitised version

f.169r-v   27 May 1476
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of Richard Wrake [monk of Durham], as the prior's lieutenant or deputy in the cell of Jarrow, which the prior intends to keep in his hands for the time being. Since he resolved that its care and administration, both in spiritualities and temporalities, should be committed to him at the prior's pleasure, until he has a further mandate from the prior, he commands all and sundry whom this concerns to obey him as his lieutenant or deputy in all and sundry pertaining to the cell, and commands him, when summoned, to render to the prior a full and faithful account of all receipts and expenses of the cell, as customarily done by the masters or keepers thereof.
Date: Durham, 27 May 1476.
Printed in The Inventories and Account Rolls of Jarrow and Monk-Wearmouth, (Surtees Society 29, 1854), p.xiii-xiv.
Digitised version

f.169v   19 June 1476
Memorandum that three quittances were issued in the customary form, one to James Preston', provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, concerning the payment of 33s 4d for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of a certain yearly pension of five marks etc., the second for Mr Edmund Mynskip, rector of the church of Walkington for the payment of 50s for the aforesaid term, in part payment of a certain yearly pension of 100s, and the third to Thomas Rudd', vicar of the church of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s for the same term, in part payment of a yearly pension of 40s.
Date: 19 June 1476.

f.169v-170r   20 August 1476
Letter (subscription: by Richard, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to Mr Peter de Mellinis and Mr John Gerona, proctors generals of the apostolic see), informing him that that Lawrence, bishop of Durham, who is about to move (as is asserted) to the see of York through advancement by the king of England, had recently written about several temporal offices, previously granted by the king to his servants and officials and to be confirmed by the prior and his fellow monks under their common seal before the coming of Mr William Duddeley, his asserted and nominated successor in the church of Durham, to the considerable prejudice, as is presumed, of the latter and his household. Since this was refused for certain reasonable causes moving the prior to the contrary, Lawrence took it much to heart, making terrible threats to the prior and monastery to be carried out after his future translation. Fearing that, after a grace was obtained from the apostolic see to obtain the archbishopric, Lawrence should wish to harass the prior and monastery in their benefices, property and possessions within his archbishopric, which were formerly given, granted, annexed [etc.] to them and the monastery by popes, kings of England, archbishops and bishops, he in due form of law interposed a certain precautionary appeal from such threatened injuries. He sends this to him with the other muniments necessary in that regard, asking him, if necessary, to use and safely preserve at the prior's expense all and sundry muniments in defence of his rights.
Date: Durham, 20 August 1476.
Digitised version

f.170r-v   21 August 1476
Commission by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Mr William Poteman', LL.D., Mr {Th}[omas] (over erasure) Person, D.Dec., and Mr William Laybron', B.Cn & C.L., stating that he has recently heard the clamorous report that in the collegiate church of Howden {and Hemingbrough} belonging to his ordinary jursidiction, several offences and transgressions by persons and ministers thereof {whatever they are called in name and dignity} and his other subjects there were occurring more than usual, to the offence of God and the church, and the considerable detriment of their souls. It is known that the reforming, punishment and correction of these pertains, from custom and by right of the privilege lawfully granted to him, to the prior or his office by reason of the said liberty. He commits his authority to the three of them together or at least two of them separately to make inquiry in due form of law, at a suitable time and place to be fixed by him, about such alleged crimes and offences and anything else worthy of reformation by trustworthy men, clerical and lay, of the same parish {of his said ordinary jurisdiction}, or by any others likely to have knowledge thereof, and, if any are found, duly to correct, punish, and reform any persons transgressing or in any way offending. He grants full authority to carry out what they have determined with regard to the aforementioned. The presents are to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 21 August 1476.
Digitised version

f.170v   31 December 1476
Memorandum that one quittance in the common form was issued to the master and scholars of Balliol Hall [Oxford] concerning the payment of a yearly pension of 10s.
Date: 31 December 1476.
Digitised version

f.170v   9 October [1474] & 8 October [1476]
[Memorandum] that two quittances in the common form [were issued] to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne for the payment of a yearly pension of £9 3s 4d, namely, one dated Durham, 9 October 14 A. R. Edward IV, since the quittance which was previously issued for the same year is lost, as is said, and the other, dated Durham, 8 October 16 A. R. Edward IV, for the term of Michaelmas before the said date.
Digitised version

f.170v   1 October 1476
Memorandum that letters of licence to hear the confessions of the monks in [Durham] College Oxford, were issued in the common form, granted to John Lee and John Manbe [monks of Durham].
Date: 1 October 1476.
Digitised version

f.170v   10 December 1476
Memorandum that Richard, prior of Durham, on the authority of an apostolic bull granted to him and his successors, dispensed in the usual form dan William Burton [monk of Durham], being in his twenty-second year (as is well-known), that he may freely and lawfully be promoted to the priestly order and afterwards minister in it, notwithstanding the defect of his age and any apostolic constitutions and other statutes and customs to the contrary.
Date; 10 December 1476.
Digitised version

f.170v   1 October 1476
Memorandum that one letter for sending Thomas Collom [monk of Durham] from the monastery of Durham to the cell of Wearmouth and another for returning John Rowland [monk of Durham] from there to the monastery were issued in the common form.
Date: 1 October 1476.
Digitised version

f.170v   31 October 1476
[Memorandum] that the corrody in le Meason de dieu which Thomas Smyth lately held was granted to Th[omas] Ryhop', with all its rights and appurtenances. He had a letter in respect thereof in the common form.
Date: 31 October 1476.
Digitised version

f.171r   11 November 1476
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Robert Lyndeley, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody for life outside the abbey gate Durham, which Alice Bedemaker lately held.
Date: Durham, 11 November 1476.
Digitised version

f.171r   3 February 1477
Memorandum that one corrody for life was granted to Helen Forest in the infirmary of Durham, which Marjorie Billyngham lately held. She is to perform the customary prayers. She had letters to stay inside [the hospital] in the usual form.
Date: 3 February 1476/7.
Digitised version

f.171r-v   10 February 1477
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of William Claxton', esquire, as steward of all the prior's vills, lands and tenements pertaining to his exchequer of Durham, {provided that he conducts himself correctly in his office} [and] duly carries out the said office and those [duties] incumbent on it for the benefit and honour of the prior and church of Durham. He is to receive the usual and customary fees and wages. The prior orders all his officials and tenants whom this concerns to obey William in all and sundry pertaining to the said office. The prior's seal has been attached to the presents (followed by an erasure of several words).
Date: Durham, 10 February 1476/7.
Digitised version

f.171v   20 February 1477
Memorandum that one corrody was granted for life to John Symson' in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Isabel Shotton lately held. He is to perform the customary prayers. He had letters in the usual form in respect thereof to stay inside [the infirmary].
Date: 20 February 1476/7.
Digitised version

f. 171v-172r   10 February 1477
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to William, bishop of Durham), informing him that his fellow monk, Thomas Haughton', sacrist of Durham, the prior and chapter's subcollector of the king's tenth, granted by the clergy of the bishop's diocese at the last convocation at York, suspended and interdicted the church of Seaham, seven miles from Durham, for non-payment of the tenth, on the sufficient authority given him by commission. Notwithstanding this, Robert Frey, parish priest of the church, immediately afterwards knowingly said mass and celebrated divine services. The vicar general therefore sent a citation against the priest to appear before him and the bishop's officer in his consistory at Durham to give reasonable cause why he should not be punished for his contempt and presumptuous deeds against the law, to the great prejudice of the king. As the citation was delivered to him, a gentleman residing there, called Humphrey Lile, came forth, took the citation and tore it into pieces. He threatened to smite the bearer thereof on both cheeks unless he ate it who, for fear of his life, ate part. Humphrey made him sit backwards on his horse and led him through the town, saying that if he had been there who had set in motion ( “sett upon”) the suspension, he would have repented the bringing of it, and yet will if he meets with him, and bade him be wary of such messages hereafter. The prior beseeches the bishop for direction for the punishment and reformation hereof, as an example to others in the future, and that he and his fellow monks may be discharged from gathering tenths henceforward, for they have incurred great indignation in the country for doing so. The prior would have written more to him bot I shall doo not longe to with the grace of all almyghti god.
Date: 10 February 1476/7.
Digitised version

f.172r   9 March 1477
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to J{oan} (over erasure) Currour, with the consent of his chapter, of the corrody or place for life in the hospital of Witton [Gilbert] near Bearpark which Isabel Lechemaker lately held. She is to receive what any brother or sister thereof is accustomed to receive, provided that she enters the hospital and henceforward stays there and keeps all the statutes [etc.]. If she should commit adultery or fornication or marry or not keep the statutes [etc.], then he wills that she be deprived of all the abovesaid in perpetuity.
Date: “etc.”, 9 March 1476/7.
Digitised version

f.172r-v   9 March [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to William, baron of Hylton), stating that the prior is informed that he desires to have the good will of Robert Shotton' to the benefit of a servant of the baron's called William Sluthman', in respect of a place in Westoe, which Robert has leased (“taken”) from the prior and his fellow monks, and which one John Broun occupied when he was alive. The prior prays him to be of good will that such leases as are made by the prior and his fellow monks of any lands belonging to them let out to tenants may remain firm and stable, and not to labour to the contrary, as they would do for him in a similar case, and not to be displeased if the prior cannot conceive ( “fynd in my conceit'”) to let any such land belonging to them to the said William for various considerations. He will find the prior as well disposed to him as he would reasonably wish.
Date: Durham, 9 March.
Digitised version

f.172v   19 March [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Anne, duchess of Gloucester), informing her that he has received her letters by the hands of her servant, Nicholas Hedlam', for the vicarage of Bossall. He beseeches her not to be displeased because in his simpleness he has erred a little out of forgetfulness because he has presented someone thereoto who is not yet admitted for certain causes which the archbishop alleges against the form of the presentation. Until this is decided, he can do nothing in this matter. She shall nevertheless be pleased either with it or with any other as good, when it comes into his gift.
Date: Durham, 19 March.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclviii-ccclix.
Digitised version

f.172v-173r   2 April 1477
Certification by Richard, prior of the church and chapter thereof of Durham, to John, abbot of Selby, of the Benedictine order, York diocese, visitor of the said order in the province of York diocese, deputed by the presidents of the order in the provincial chapter last held at Northampton, or to his commissaries, having received on 19 March the following citation.
On the authority of this, they have forewarned all and sundry who ought or are accustomed to be summoned to prepare to submit canonically and have cited them to appear on the said day and place before him or his commissaries; they will similarly appear in the manner commanded. The names of those cited are contained in the schedule annexed to the presents. They have thus executed his mandate in all respects.
Date: the monastery of Durham, 2 April 1477.
Digitised version

f.173r-v   5 January [1477]
Bond by John Esyngton', merchant of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, to Richard, prior of Durham, and the chapter thereof, for £20, to be paid to the prior and chapter or their successors, or their certain attorney at Pentecost next.
Sealed with his seal.
Date: 5 January 16 A. R. Edward IV.
(Margin: bond made for John Esyngton', admitted as scholar of Durham College Oxford)
Condition of the bond that if John Esyngton', son of the above said John Esyngton', literatus and scholar, admitted or to be admitted to Durham College Oxford, after his admission, conducts himself well and faithfully towards the warden and fellow monks thereof, obeys their canonical and lawful mandates, keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs, and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them any injury, and remains in the college for three years before taking the bachelor's degree, and does not presume to be made inceptor in arts within seven years of his admission, without having first sought and obtained licence of the prior or warden of the college, then the present bond will be null; otherwise, it should remain in force. If John Esyngton' the son does anything against the aforementioned, he will be deprived of every right and title acquired by him therein. (Marginal note next to the underlined clause:) “Inserted here, but not in the bond and so underlined”.
Digitised version

f.173v   29 March [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Lawr[ence], archbishop of York), stating that both he and his fellow monks, his bedesmen, beseech him to act as their good lord in admitting their presentations, made in the same form as they have customarily been before, although he has lately refused one presentation of the vicarage of Bossall made in accordance with the said form. The prior therefore greatly fears that he might have committed an offence against him since the time the archbishop directed his letters to him, from which the prior understood that he said he would be his good lord. If he might understand how he has offended the archbishop, he would be diligent in making amends. He and his fellow monks fully trust that he will be their good lord, especially because he was lately so and was head of the church of Durham and their chief support. If they had ever been accustomed to write the term “obedienc'” in their presentations, they would have been loth to omit it in writing any presentations to him to the contrary but would have used the same. He beseeches him to place confidence in his fellow monk, the bearer hereof, and in such evidences as he declares to him concerning this matter.
Date: Durham, 29 March.
Digitised version

f.174r   [?1477]
Language:   English
Supplication by Richard, prior and the convent of Durham, to the archbishop of York, beseeching him to consider that whereas they from time out of mind were accustomed in their presentations made to him and all his predecessors to write “all manner of honour and reverence due unto his gracious lordship”, omitting the term “obedienc'”, as evident in all their writings and evidences which they have concerning the same; notwithstanding this, he has lately refused and not admitted one of their presentations in the aforesaid form for a chaplain, William Laxe, to the vicarage of Bossall, without them giving any offence or lawful cause, as they trust, to their great grievance and the hindrance of William Laxe, unless the archbishop shows his special favour. They beseech him to act as their good lord, as he has previously done in all things concerning the liberties and freedoms of the monastery of Durham, so that the said presentation may through his special favour remain in force and take effect without any opposition according to the tenor thereof.
Digitised version

f.174r-v   29 March [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to William, bishop of Durham), thanking him for his efforts for the prior and for his good counsel that he apply himself to please the king in respect of his servant, deputed by the bishop to the office of bailiff of the city of Durham; he has been well disposed in this and all else which may please him or the king, as he trusts they will report of him. The bishop has acted notably and honourably in cherishing the affection of the lords Westmorland and Nevill and their adherents, as the prior trusts he will continue to do, for if they and the bishop stand as one they may rule all others who inhabit the region, for many of the gentlemen are poorly guided and follow inexperienced counsel, as the bishop shall better understand hereafter. What the prior meant in his motion made to the bishop for cherishing the said lords, he dare not disclose until he has discussion with the bishop, for he intended that what he moved therein to tend to the bishop's honour and advantage, beseeching him to take it as such. He also beseeches his good lordship and support in the business he has with the archbishop of York concerning his privilege in the writing of their presentations, which he refuses to admit because they have not included the term “obedienc'” which they have never used, which his fellow monk, William Lawe, bearer hereof, shall show to him. The prior beseeches him to place confidence in William and the evidences he has concerning this matter, and to advise him how best to conduct himself in making entreaty to the archbishop in this matter to defend their privilege. One half of their minster garth on the north side towards the castle and palace was lately polluted [by a fight ?] between two young gentlemen, Lionel Claxton' and Andrew Trollop', and has stood so long to the nuisance of the parishioners within the outer walls of the castle, who have no other church garth. Lionel says he will be judged by the bishop as to the fees which should be given for reconciling the said garth and the fault can be found in him. If the bishop would write to the vicar general to reconcile this, it would be an act of charity for the parishioners who now have no burial except in their church which is very little.
Date: Durham, 29 March.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclix-ccclx.
Digitised version

f.174v   2 April 1477
Memorandum that a corrody was granted to Isabel Noble of Durham in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Thomas Whitscales lately held. She obtained a letter to stay inside in respect thereof in the common form, sealed with the prior's seal.
Date: 2 April 1477.
Digitised version

f.175r   29 March [1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to W[illiam] Lawe, [monk of Durham and] warden of Durham College Oxford), informing him that the archbishop of York has lately refused to admit his presentation made to William Laxe of the vicarage of Bossall because the term “obedienc'” is not written therein, which they have never put in any presentation to him or his predecessors. The prior would therefore have him prepare in Passion Week next to ride to London to the archbishop and conduct himself as humbly and discreetly as he can, offering a letter and supplication from him to the archbishop to act as his gracious lord in the matter. He shall receive the letter and supplication from the bearer hereof, with copies of the same and other evidences, which the prior requests him to study and to be advised thereupon by such persons he trusts are cunning and with whom he is best acquainted. Among these evidences he will find one instrument of the beginnings of various previous presentations, with a paper copy of them, which he may show the archbishop if need be, the paper copy first in case the archbishop retains it and does not deliver it again when William comes to London. Willliam might persuade the bishop of Durham to beseech his good lordship in this matter before William went to the archbishop, which the prior would have him do anyway. William may take a learned man there to examine their evidence and to advise him so that he were neither of fee secrete in chierte nor in daynger of the archbishop, and to appeal from him if he sees no other remedy. If the archbishop wishes to have Bossall for any of his chaplains, William may say that [the duke and duchess] of Gloucester have both written to him for it at various times and that the prior, in failing to remember this, has excused himself because he has presented William Laxe to the archbishop, promising [the duchess] some other benefice which next falls vacant in his gift.
Date: Durham, 29 March.
Digitised version

f.175r-175*r   8 April [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of Durham), thanking him that he has taken such efforts in his letters which were directed to the prior on so many occasions, written with his own hands; he has lately received one by the hands of his servant, from which he understands that the bishop is displeased with the disposition and guiding of some persons who belong to the lords of Westmorland and Nevill, who are not as well guided as they would be if they were well advised, which the prior regrets. So that they are of a better disposition, he has sent counsel to the lord of Westmorland, willing them to remember the indenture between the bishop and the lord Nevill for preserving peace and good rule in the region, and that no riots or markettez should be kept, with no gentlemen with retainers (“folkes”) resorting to those persons who belong to the lords of Westmorland and Nevill, against the peace and in maintenance and support of those persons who are not well disposed. The prior had no answer again but will write to the bishop as soon as he hears how they are ruled and guided. The prior will do what he can that the subsidy which will be requested at the next synod to be held at Durham on Monday next will be granted and take effect, for if he opposes it, it will greatly stop either [?what or whom]. He would rather take much on himself than displease the bishop in this or any other matter. If the prior should grant it untidly of his own accord, without consideration to the liberties and privileges previously granted them by kings, archbishops and bishops and confirmed by various popes, which discharge them from all subsidies and aids requested by archbishops, bishops and archdeacons, by various charters which they have, some clauses of which he now sends to the bishop with the bearer hereof, his fellow monks will take it amiss and think him remiss. He beseeches him that they may make protestation herein, if they will please him, that he will grant them his letters under his seal to receive this grant on this occasion not from duty but out of kindness, as others who had such grants previously did to them, in saving their said privileges and liberties, and to be a good lord to Christopher Stevenson', bearer hereof, in such matters as he has for him.
Date: Durham, 8 April.
Digitised version

f.175*r    11 April [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the duchess of Gloucester), whereas she has written to him to have the presentation of the vicarage of Bossall for a chaplain of their lord [the duke presumably] and he had asked to be excused, inasmuch as he had presented another chaplain thereto, and to please her with it or some other when one should come into his gift. The chaplain whom he presented to the same vicarage has again sent him the same presentation since the archbishop of York has objected to its form, which the prior and his predecessors have always used before time out of mind, and which he never intends to change. He therefore now sends her a presentation for the same vicarage for their lord's chaplain, beseeching her to excuse him to the lord and deliver it to him, so that he is not displeased with the prior for not writing to him in this matter, since his lord previously wrote to him for a presentation. He entreats her to place confidence in his brother's son, the bearer hereof, to be his good lady and to present him to his lordship that he might take him as one of his servants, that he might be blessed with his lordship and known as his man, to do him service before any other, not for outlays which he desires he spend on him but only to be his good lord and take him as his man, for if his lordship recalls, the prior presented his nephew to him once at Durham, and trusts to labour for him that before long he shall be more fit to do him service.
Date: Durham, 11 April.
Digitised version

f.175*r   25 April 1477
Memorandum that on 25 April 1477 one letter was issued for sending Hugh Lethum [monk of Durham] from the monastery [of Durham] to the cell of Farne, and another for returning Thomas Bolt [monk of Durham] from Farne to the monastery was similarly issued according to the common form on the above day and year.
Digitised version

f.175*r-v   8 June 1477
Memorandum that three quittances were issued in the customary form, namely, one for Mr <forename erased> Preston', provost of Hemingbrough, concerning the payment of 33s 4d for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of a yearly pension of five marks, the second for Mr Edmund Mynskipp', rector of the church of Walkington, for a payment of 50s for the aforesaid term, in part payment of a yearly pension of 100s, and the third for Thomas Rudd, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning a payment of 20s for the same term, in part payment of a yearly pension of 40s.
Date: 8 June [14]77.
Digitised version

f.175*v   5 September [?1477]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Mr Edmund Mynskip, rector of the church of Walkington), requesting him henceforth to pay yearly and satisfy the archdeacon of the East Riding of 4 marks for a pension yearly due to him at Mary Magdalene [22 July], so that neither the archdeacon nor his deputy are caused to labour further for payment thereof. He is to begin payment on 22 July next (“Mawdelenmes”) and yearly thereafter at the same feast or soon after, receiving yearly quittance thereof from the archdeacon or his deputy, and he will have allowance made in the pension which he pays to the chamberlain, for the bursar will satisfy the chamberlain of the same amount. He prays him to do this for the benefit of all parties.
Date: Durham, 5 September.
Digitised version

f.175*v   15 September 1477
Bond by William Rothom' of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, to Richard, prior of Durham, for £20, to be paid to the prior or his successors or certain attorney at Pentecost next.
Sealed with his seal.
Date: 15 September 1477
with
Condition of bond that if Christopher Forster', son of the late John Forster, literatus and scholar, admitted or to be admitted in Durham College Oxford, after his admission conducts himself well and faithfully towards the warden and fellow monks thereof, obeys their canonical and lawful mandates, and keeps the statutes, ordinances and customs thereof, and the peace among the residents there, and does not do them injury, and waits for three years after his admission before taking a bachelor's degree, and does not presume to be made an inceptor in arts within seven years of his admission, without having previously sought and obtained licence from the prior or warden thereof, then the present bond is null; it should otherwise remain in force. If Christopher does anything to the contrary, he will be deprived of every right and title acquired by him therein.
Digitised version

f.175*v-176r   18 June 1477
Proxy by Richard, prior of Durham, addressed to all and sundry presidents of the provincial chapter of the order of black monks, to be held by apostolic authority on Monday, 30 June next, at Northampton, appointing his fellow monk, Mr Robert Ebchestr', S.T.P., as his proctor with full power and special mandate to appear on the day and place above assigned, to excuse and give the reason for his absence and swear an oath in that regard, to treat and come to an agreement with the presidents or any other prelates of the order present there concerning all and sundry articles moved by them for the honour of the order, to agree to what is determined on the common advice of those present, and to do and carry out all else necessary or opportune with regards to the aforementioned, and which is known to pertain to the office of proctor from right or custom, even if it requires a special mandate, since he is prevented from appearing in person at the coming provincial chapter by difficult business [touching] the state and advantage of the monastery of Durham, first for the speedier expediting of certain business of Pope Sixtus IV, lately committed to him and others by the abbot of Abingdon, papal legate a latere in England, and then on account of the declaration and determination of certain causes daily arising of William, bishop of Durham, acting in distant parts, similarly committed to him by the bishop.
Date: Durham, 18 June 1477.
Excuses printed: Chapters of the English Black Monks III, ed W.A. Pantin (Camden 3rd Series vol.liv, 1937), p.220.
Digitised version

f.176r-v   28 June 1477
Licence and Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, to his fellow monks, John Manbe and John Carlile, granting licence to hear the confessions of his fellow monks and other religious staying in [Durham] College Oxford and to absolve them, with the absolving of grave faults reserved to the prior or his special deputy, and appointing them as receivers and bursars thereof and, with the consent of the warden and according to the intention of the founders, committing the disposition of the college's goods to them. They are to render a faithful account to the prior with the warden for receipts and expenses, and in the college's affairs are personally to labour at the common expense, whenever necessary, according to the determination of the warden and his associates.
Date: Durham, 28 June 1477.
Digitised version

f.176v   28 August 1477
Commission by Richard, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire, to Mr William Poteman', LL.D., Mr William Laybron', B.Cn & C.L., John Hart, chaplain, and John Hertilpole, auditor, or any other competent auditor of the place, stating that, since, in accordance with the form and tenor of the ordinance of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, the then provost of the church is obliged to render on oath a full and faithful account of his administration every year in his manse there to the prior or his deputy of all and sundry profits, revenues and income of the church received and administered by him, as is clearly expressed in the same ordinance, the prior commits to them authority to audit the account of Mr James Preston, the present provost, of all and sundry profits [etc.] of the church, received and administered by him by reason of his provostship for the period of his incumbency there, and moreover to allow, disallow, depute and amend it, and for legitimate reasons to sequestrate, or cause to be sequestrated, the profits [etc.], and to cite, warn and require the said provost to do and submit to the aforementioned, and, if he is rebellious, to compel him [to do this] by ecclesiastical censure, and to do and carry out what is necessary or appropriate in the aforementioned.
Date: Durham, 28 August 1477.
Digitised version

f.176v-177r   3 September 1477
Proxy by Richard, prior and the chapter of Durham, appointing Mr William Poteman', LL.D., Mr Thomas Person', D.Dec., and Mr William Laybron, B.Cn & C.L., as their proctors in a certain matter of the reform of the old ordinances of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough between the provost amd canons-prebendary thereof, having an interest therein, to be begun and concluded on the authority of Lawrence, archbishop of York with general authority and special mandate, to appear before the archbishop or his commissaries at the times and places appointed by them to expedite the business of this reform, to excuse and put forward the reasons for their absence, to assert and prove the right and title, possession and jurisdiction which the prior and chapter had in the said church from the time of the old ordinances and now have, to agree to the making of this reform, so far as it pertains to the prior and chapter, if it should seem expedient or opportune, with the consent of those concerned, or not to agree, to do and carry out everything else necessary or opportune, having publicly summoned for this purpose the provost and canons-prebendary by name, and all others who believe they have an interest, saving and reserving the right, title, possession and jurisdiction which the prior and chapter have held from the time of the old ordinances and now hold in the church of Hemingbrough in all respects.
Under their common seal.
Date: the chapter house, Durham, 3 September 1477.
Also, dated 1 September 1477, DCD Reg. IV, f.180v-181r.
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f.177r-v   22 September 1477
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to John Swynton' and Katherine, his wife, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody in Le Meason de dieu which Joan Swynton', his mother, presently holds, as soon it should become vacant after her death, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them, provided they (or one of them) may take and hold possession of the said corrody on the authority of these letters when, as aforesaid, it should be vacant, for as long as they are alive. They are to receive what any brother or sister thereof receives, provided they keep the statutes [etc.] thereof. If they should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or remarry, without previously having sought and obtained licence from the prior or his successors, then he wills that he or she be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to them.
Date: Durham, 22 September 1477.
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f.177v   26 September 1477
Bond by Thomas Lawe of North [now Bishop] Auckland, to Richard, prior of Durham, for £20, to be paid to the prior or his successors or certain attorney at the Nativity of John the Baptist next [24 June].
Date: 26 September 1477.
with
Condition of the bond it is in all respects of such a kind as is evident in the condition of the bond for Christopher, son of the late John Forster, registered on the third folio preceding [f.175*v, and cf. next entry].
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f.177v   30 September 1477
Mandate [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to the warden of Durham College Oxford), stating that, since, as he is given to understand, three scholars have recently departed from Durham College Oxford, he therefore commands him, when he next comes to Oxford, to admit and receive John Esyngton', Christopher Forster and Thomas Law, clerks of Durham diocese, as scholars thereof, after they have been examined by him and his fellow monks. He is to require a bodily oath from them.
Date: Durham, 30 September 1477.
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f.177v-178v   30 September 1477
Certification by Richard, prior of Durham, to Hugh Snell', D.Dec., vicar general of William, bishop of Durham, having received on 28 September the following mandate
informing him that he has cited the chapter of Durham to attend the convocation of the clergy in York minster on 21 October through their sufficient proctor [etc.], and has thus carried out his mandate.
Date: Durham, 30 September 1477.
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f.178v   8 October 1477
Memorandum that one quittance was issued in accordance with the customary form, previously written in this register, for the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, as for the pension of £9 3s 4d assigned to the master of Farne.
Date: Durham, 8 October 1477.
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f.178v-179r   26 October 1477
Grant by Richard [Bell], prior of Durham, to John Bell' and Mundana, his wife, with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of the corrody in the hospital of Witton [Gilbert] which Isabel Bradbery presently holds, as soon as it should become vacant by her death, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them, provided that they (or one of them) may take and hold possession of the said corrody on the authority of these letters when, as aforesaid, it should be vacant, for as long as they are alive. They are to receive what any brother or sister thereof receives, provided they keep the statutes [etc.] thereof. If they should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or remarry, without licence of the prior or his successors, then he wills that he or she be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to them. He grants them licence to stay in some respectable place situated outside the hospital for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them.
Date: Durham, 26 October 1477.
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f.179r   1 November 1477
Memorandum that one letter for returning William Broun' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Jarrow to the monastery [of Durham] was issued under the round seal.
Date: Durham, 1 November 1477.
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f.179r   10 November 1477
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of his fellow monk, Robert Werdale, as master or keeper of the cell of Jarrow, committing to him its care and administration in both spiritualities and temporalities, until he has another mandate from the prior; commanding all and sundry concerned to be answerable to him and obey him as master or keeper in all pertaining to them. He is to render annually a faithful account to the prior for all receipts and expenses of the cell.
Date: Durham, 10 November 1477.
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f.179r   15 November 1477
Memorandum that three quittances were issued in the customary form, one for Mr James Preston', provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough, concerning the payment of 33s 4d for the term of Martinmas last past in full payment of a yearly pension of 5 marks, etc., the second for Mr Edmund Mynskipp', rector of the church of Walkington, in full payment of a yearly pension of 100s, namely 50s, for the said term, and the third for Thomas Rudd, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s for the same term in full payment of a yearly pension of 40s.
Date: 15 November 1477.
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f.179r   21 October 1477
Memorandum that an indenture for a lease of the manor of Witton [Gilbert] near Bearpark was made to John Bell' and Mundana, his wife, for the term of thirty years, rendering 102s p.a. to the then almoner of Durham.
Date: 21 October 1477.
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f.179r-v   [21 October 1477]
[Memorandum] that an indenture for a lease of the manor of Belasis to the same John and Mundana for the term of thirty years, rendering £6 13s 4d p.a. to the exchequer of the prior [of Durham] and 12 quarters 6 bushels of wheat to the supervisor of the stock, in which these words are interlineated: “and sufficient distraint cannot be found in the same manor with its appurtenances”.
Date: “the same day and year”.
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f.179v   3 November 1477
(Marginal note:) [void] since made anew for the same Richard only by Mr Robert Ebchestr', prior [of Durham].
(All crossed out:) <Memorandum likewise that an indenture for a lease of the manor of Bewley to Richard Clifton' and Margaret, his wife, for the term of 21 years, rendering annually £10 3s 4d to the exchequer of the prior of Durham at the usual terms; The words written below are interlineated in the indenture: “and sufficient distraint cannot be found in the said manor with its appurtenances”.
Date: 3 November 1477.>
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f.179v   1 December 1477
Memorandum that the two letters of removal were issued according to the common form, one for removing John Grene [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to the cell of Finchale, and the other for removing Richard Blakwell' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to Holy Island.
Date: 1 December 1477.
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f.179v   1 December 1477
Memorandum that a quittance was issued in the customary form to the abbot and convent of Newminster for the payment of a certain yearly pension of 13s 4d, owed yearly for the church of Stannington for the terms of Pentecost and Martinmas last past.
Date: 1 December [14]77.
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f.179v   1 December 1477
Memorandum that John Grene [monk of Durham] was appointed as cellarer of Finchale by the prior's letters, drawn up in respect thereof in the customary form under his seal.
Date: 1 December 1477.
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f.179v   20 December 1477
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Joan, wife of Thomas Herynger, daughter of Eleanor Catlynson', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Eleanor presently holds, as soon as it should be vacant by her death, provided that Joan may take and hold possession of the said corrody on the authority of these letters when, as aforesaid, it should be vacant, for as long as she lives. She is to receive what any brother or sister thereof receives, provided she keeps the statutes [etc.] thereof. If she should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or resort to marriage a third time, without licence of the prior or his successors, then he wills that she be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to her.
Date: Durham, 20 December 1477.
Margin: void since another, altered form follows.
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f.179v-180r   20 December 1477
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to Joan, wife of Thomas Herynger, daughter of Eleanor Catlynson', with the consent and will of his fellow monks, of that corrody for life in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Eleanor lately held therein for life by the letters drawn up for her in respect thereof, because Eleanor willingly delivered and returned those letters to the prior's hands for cancellation. She is to receive what any brother or sister thereof staying outside [the infirmary] receives, provided she keeps the statutes [etc.] thereof. If she should not do so or should commit fornication or adultery or resort to a second marriage after the present one, without licence of the prior or his successors, then he wills that she be deprived in perpetuity of all the aforementioned granted to her.
Date: Durham, 20 December 1477.
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f.180r   25 November 1476
Memorandum that a corrody was granted for William Wright and Agnes, his wife, in [le Meason de dieu] which John Benson' presently holds, as soon as it should become vacant by his death, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them. They obtained one letter in accordance with the form of the letter to John Swynton' and his wife, registered on the preceding third folio [f.177r-v, not counting inclusively]. These however were the words: “or to resort to a second marriage after the present one etc.”
Date: 25 November 1476.
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f.180r   19 December 1476
Grant by Richard, prior of Durham, to his servant, John Porter, with the consent of his fellow monks, for John's good service to the prior and monastery of Durham of the keeping of his wood or park of Rainton, for as long as John conducts himself correctly towards the prior and his successors, either by himself or through his sufficient deputy, receiving annually, by the hands of the prior's officers and others whom this concerns, the wages and fees which he customarily received in years past and receives at present. The prior commands all his officials and tenants to heed and assist John in these matters which are known to pertain to that keeping.
Date: Durham, 19 December 1476.
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f.180v   9 February 1478
Memorandum that the corrody for life was granted to Robert Laton' in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Robert Bellasis lately held. He had a testimonial letter in respect thereof for staying outside [the infirmary] according to the common form, sealed with the prior's seal.
Date: 9 February 1477/8.
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f.180v   15 February 1478
Memorandum that the letters written below were issued under the round seal and in the customary form, namely, one for recalling William Kellow [monk of Durham] from the cell of Finchale to the monastery [of Durham], the second for removing Richard Wrake [monk of Durham] from the cell of Jarrow to Finchale, the third for Thomas Stayndrop' [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to Finchale', the fourth for John Rowland [monk of Durham] from the cell of Wearmouth to Finchale, and the fifth for Thomas Collum [monk of Durham] from the monastery to the cell of Wearmouth.
Date: 15 February 1477/8.
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f.180v   14 February 1478
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, to Richard Wrake [monk of Durham], as subprior of the cell of Finchale, with authority to hear the confessions of his fellow monks at Finchale, dwelling there, and of those sent there to walk about, and to absolve them, with the exception of those cases whose absolution is specially reserved to the prior.
Date: Durham, 14 February 1477/8.
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f.180v   21 February 1478
Memorandum that the corrody was granted for life to Agnes Essh, servant of Joan Bradbery, in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Joan presently holds, as soon as it should become vacant by her death. She had a testimonial letter in respect thereof according to the common form.
Date: 21 February 1477/8.
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f.180v   12 March 1478
Memorandum that a letter was issued for appointing John Carlile and William Roy [monks of Durham] as confessors and bursars of Durham College Oxford, according to the form of the similar letters to John Manbe and John Carli[l]e, registered on the fifth folio preceding [f.176r-v].
Date: 12 March 1477/8.
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f.180v   21 December 1477
Memorandum that the corrody was granted, for the term of their lives or that of the survivor of them, to Isabel Noble and William Coke in the infirmary outside the abbey gate Durham, which Thomas Whitscales and after him the said Isabel lately held. They had a testimonial letter in respect thereof according to the common form within [?: either in the sense of “herein” or referring to a grant to stay within the infirmary].
Date; 21 December 1477.
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f.181r   21 March [?1478]
Language:   English
Letter [by Richard, prior of Durham], (margin: to Henry, earl of Northumberland), informing him in respect of the farmhold of Hunsley that he has had discussion with the eldest of his fellow monks therein, and they and he both remember well that Mr William Poteman', official in York, has it in farm from them and has a grant from them to have it in farming for as long as it pleases him. They are so obliged to him for many things that they would be loth to displease him. As for a patent which he desires to have for the office of the stewardshiop of Hemingbrough, the prior has similarly had discussion with his fellow monks therein, and they are loth to make any writing therein under their commmon seal since this has not previously been the custom; if the prior should endeavour to persuade them in this matter, they would think and say that he has little care for them inasmuch as he ?doe bot hedes when he shall depart from them *, as the earl understands. The prior shall not lack the will to do what lies in his power in these and any other matters to please the earl.
Date: Durham, 21 March.
[* presumably to take up office as bishop of Carlisle.]
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f.181r   21 March 1478
Appointment by Richard, prior of Durham, of Henry, earl of Northumberland, as steward of the vills of Hemingbrough, Brackenholme, Woodhall, Hunsley and Drewton, with their appurtenances, having confidence in his very useful support and favour, for as long as he conducts himself correctly in this office, by himself or through his sufficient deputy. He is to receive yearly similar fees and emoluments as the <honourable> (crossed out) {noble} man, John Pilkyngton', {Hastynges formerly}, knight, lately exercising the said office, customarily received. The prior enjoins all his officials and tenants there whom this concerns to obey the earl and his deputy as his steward in all and sundry pertaining to the said office.
Date: Durham, 21 March 1477/8.
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f.181v
(inserted at foot of page:)
Memorandum concerning the prebend of Hemingbrough granted to Mr John Pykeryng.
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f.181v-182r   15 May 1478
Commission by Thomas [Caly], subprior and the chapter of Durham, the priorate being vacant by the consecration of Richard Bell', last prior thereof, (margin: as bishop of Carlisle], to William Halyman', vicar of the church [North]Allerton, having received the following commission
since they are prevented from executing the foregoing by certain difficult business, ordering him to have the said subsidy collected in the manner aforesaid with such speed as he might, and requiring him to certify them when required concerning what he shall have done in this regard, by letters patent incorporating the presents.
Under the other part of their common seal.
Date: the chapter house, Durham, 15 May 1478.
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f.182r-v   2 June [?1478]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by Robert, prior of Durham), (margin: to William, bishop of Durham), thanking him for the good lordship shown to him, his fellow monks and the monastery of Durham and especially for his recent labours on their behalf, without which great inconveniences were likely to have befallen them, for which they are evermore his bedesmen. Through God's grace and the bishop's support he has with the assent of his fellow monks been taken on as their governor and has the rule of the monastery, although he is unworthy and was loth to undertake this because of the great charges pending thereon. He will apply himself to do service to the bishop to the best of his ability.
Date: Durham, 2 June.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclxv-ccclxvi.
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f.182v   3 August 1478
Memorandum that three quittances were issued in the customary form, one for the provost of the collegiate church of Hemingbrough concerning the payment of 33s 4d for the term of Pentecost last past, in part payment of a yearly pension of five marks, the second for Mr Edmund Mynskip', rector of the church of Walkington, concerning the payment of 50s in part payment of a yearly pension of 100s for the same term, and the third for Thomas Rudd, vicar of the church of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s for the same term in part payment of a yearly pension of 40s.
Date: 3 August 1478.
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f.182v-183r   [?1478]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by Robert, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to the duchess of Gloucester), whereas she has directed her letters to him and his fellow monks, from which he understands that she is informed that the incumbent vicar of Frampton is aged and weak, he is in fact young, under thirty years of age, and likely to continue therein for many years and, as far as the prior understands, is thriving, and whereas she desires to have the nomination of the said vicarage when it should next be vacant, it was ordered at the general chapter of their order that no prelate thereof should grant any benefice during the lifetime of the incumbent, upon pain of cursing, which to the prior was too grievious. He therefore beseeches her not to be displeased that they do not fulfil her wish at this time.
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f.183r   21 August 1478
(Memorandum of) petition that on Friday, 21 August 1478 a certain James Yong, lately of Boroughbridge, York diocese, in person in the nave of Durham cathedral, in the presence of the witnesses below, acknowledged himself to be responsible for the death of a certain Richard Carter, lately bailiff of Boroughbridge, because on Monday next after St Lawrence [17 August] in the abovesaid year he by chance encountered Richard at Ferrensby near Knaresborough and then and there struck him in self-defence, as he says, with a sword on the back of the right leg, near the ankle, from which Richard died. For this felony, James rang the bell and sought sanctuary.
Present: Thomas Haughton', sacrist of the church of Durham, Thomas Brak, Thomas Rowland, John Saunderson', John Boys and many others.
Printed: Sanctuarium Dunelmense et Sanctuarium Beverlacense, (Surtees Society [5], [1837]), p.3.
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f.183r   12 September 1478
Memorandum that a commission for the keeping of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in Howden and Howdenshire was issued to Mr William Laybron', according to the form in the commission for the same William in this register on the seventeenth folio preceding [f.167v-168r], as is evident there.
Date: 12 September 1478.
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f.183r-v   12 September 1478
Commission by Robert, prior of Durham, ordinary of the spirituality of the liberty of St Cuthbert in [North]Allerton and Allertonshire, to his fellow monk, John Manbe, and Mr John Pykering, B.Cn & C.L., appointing them keepers of the said spirituality and committing his authority to take cognisance of and proceed in certain matrimonial {and testamentary} causes and suits, as well as others, both moved or to be moved before them at the instance of the parties or ex officio mero aut promoto, or in any other way, and to determine and conclude them, to act in probate matters (detailed), to correct and punish transgressions and offences to places, persons and property in the spirituality, especially those found in the visitation he is to make there, and to make inquiry into similar ones, and to do and carry out everything which is known to pertain to the prior and his spirituality by custom or right. The presents are to last at the prior's pleasure only.
Date: Durham, 12 September 1478.
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f.183v   12 September 1478
Commission by Robert, prior of Durham, archdeacon in all and sundry churches and chapels appropriated to him and the church of Durham, to his fellow monk, John Manbe, and Mr John Pykering, B.Cn & C.L., appointing them as official and keeper of his archidiaconal jurisdiction in all and sundry churches appropriated to him and the monastery of Durham in Durham diocese and committing his authority to proceed, take cognisance and pronounce in all affairs, suits and complaints amd matrimonial causes, moved or to be moved with any incidentals arising within the said jurisdiction, at the instance of the parties or ex officio, to make inquiry, correct and punish offences and transgressions. The presents are to last at the prior's pleasure.
Date: Durham, 12 September 1478.
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f.183v   11 September 1478
Memorandum that Thomas Yonge [monk of Durham] was appointed as cellarer of Finchale by the prior's letters, under his seal, in the customary form.
Date: 11 September 1478.
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f.183v-184r   19 September 1478
Lease by indenture by William Yowdale, [monk of Durham and] prior of St Leonard's Stamford, with the consent of the prior and convent of Durham, to William Baly of Blyborough [Lincs.] of two tofts in Blyborough, lately in the tenure of Simon Warde and Robert Penne, lying between the highway on the south side and the public way on the north, and abutting on a certain common drain (“swaram”) there towards the east and on a public way towards the west, and of another waste toft, lying in Blyborough between the tenement of John, duke of Suffolk on the east side and the messuage of Simon Warde on the west, and abutting on the public ways towards the north and south, and of five bovates of meadow and pasture land, namely, three bovates lately in the tenure of the said Robert and two bovates lately in the tenure of the said Simon, and of one tenement in Blyborough last in the tenure of William Geffreson', abutting towards the north on a public way and on the southern side towards a field and on the east side towards the land of St John, and of one bovate of land pertaining to the same tenement, to be held with their appurtenances from SS Philip and James [1 May] next for the term of the following thirty years, rendering 20s 9d yearly to the then prior of the cell of St Leonard's, to be paid at the usual terms and to perform suit of court, under this condition, that within the next four years William Baly will cause a room, stable and dove-cot to be newly built there, suitable for receiving the prior of Stamford and his household whenever they should come there, and William will repair and maintain them and other buildings already there during the term and will leave them adequately repaired at the end of the term at his own expense. If the aforesaid rent of 20s 9d should be in arrears, in part or in whole, for forty days after any term, or the aforesaid buildings are not constructed within the said time, or they or the others already there are inadequately repaired on the view of four law-worthy men, impartially chosen, and, after monition was made to the same William, if he does not cause them to be adequately repaired within six months, then the prior of Stamford may enter the aforesaid tofts, tenement and bovates with their appurtenances and possess them as before and expel William, notwithstanding this present indenture.
Date: 19 September 1478.
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f.184r-v   26 September [?1478]
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by Robert, prior of Durham), (superscription and margin: to the king), whereas he has directed his letters to the prior, his bedesman, to grant the next prebend to be vacant in Howden to his chaplain, Mr Alexander Lee, the prior and his fellow monks cannot grant any prebend or benefice pertaining to them before it becomes vacant because of a constitution made in restraint thereof at the general chapter of their order, upon pain of cursing and sentence of the church. Nevertheless, when the situation requires, they will be so disposed to him that he will be pleased therein.
Date: Durham, 26 September.
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f.184v   26 September [?1478]
Language:   English
Letter [by Robert, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of Durham), stating that he has received his and the king's writing to grant the next prebend in Howden to come vacant to Mr Alexander Lee. The prior and his fellow monks are restrained upon pain of cursing from making any such grant before it becomes vacant because of a constitition made at the general chapter of their order. Nevertheless, they shall conduct themselves herein such that the king and bishop will both be pleased, nothwithstanding that the prior had intended it for the bishop's chaplain and their good friend, Mr Semer.
Date: Durham, 26 September.
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f.184v-185v   20 September [1478]
Memorandum that a certificate was issued on {28 September} (over erasure) 1478 for the convocation of the clergy of York province, according to the form of a similar certificate copied on the eighth and seventh folios preceding [f.177v-178v]; the tenor of which follows:
Mandate by Hugh Snell, D.Dec., vicar general of William, bishop of Durham, to Robert, prior of Durham, having received on 19 September, the following citation. On the authority of this, he summons the prior to appear in person and orders him to cite the chapter of Durham to appear through their sufficient proctor at the said date and place as the archbishop's letters demand; along with [reciting] the tenor of the presents, the prior is duly to certify him before St Luke [18 October] of the date of his receipt of the presents and of what he shall have done regarding the aforementioned.
Date: Haughton[-le-Skerne], 20 September “in the year above”
Marginal note that the mandate was received on 23 September last past.
Digitised version

f.185v   3 October [1478]
Memorandum that one quittance was issued to the mayor and community of the town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne as for the pension of £9 3s 4d, assigned to the master of Farne, according to the form previously written in this register on the eighth folio {from the beginning} [f.8r-v].
Date: 3 October 18 A. R. Edward IV.
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f.185v   3 October 1478
Memorandum that a certain letter was issued for receiving Robert Marshall', originating in Allertonshire, as scholar of [Durham] College Oxford, according to the form of the letter written on folio 65 [?] preceding.
Date: 3 October 1478.
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f.185v   [3 October 1478]
[Memorandum], that a bond, with a condition for the good behaviour of the aforesaid Robert Marshall', was issued according to the customary form, in which John Tukkesforth', chaplain, is bound to the prior and chapter [of Durham] for £20.
Date: “the same day and year”.
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f.185v-186r   16 October 1478
Language:   English
Letter (subscription: by Robert, prior and the chapter of Durham), (margin and superscription: to Mr John Shirwod, the king's proctor in the Roman curia), thanking him for his good affection for the monastery of Durham and them, especially in the matter of Coldingham, as they understand by his letters which he has lately sent to them. They thank him for his good advice in the said matter which has previously been very costly to them and ?lost them considerable goods ( “drawen us grete goodes”); if they should attempt to renew their suit and ?spend money in that matter which has been entrusted to any Scotsman for a pension or anything else desired from them ( “and make cost in that matter in trust of any scottisman for eny pension or enything els that wald be desired of us”) they trust it would bring them expense and be of no effect or benefit to them, for even if the matter was revoked and they obtained a sentence therein, they could not have it executed without the good will of the king of Scots or unless the town of Berwick[-upon-Tweed] was in English hands, as it was before they were despoiled and expelled by force by the Scots directly after they had obtained the town from the English. They have so written to their proctor Mr Peter (“Pers”) de Mellinis, trusting that, saving better advice, it was expedient for the matter to rest until such time as God gives them better fortune. They are greatly obliged to John and thank him. They inform him that when Robert Sotheron' of Durham, priest, was last at Rome, he delivered 21 papal ducats [? c. £4 4s.] to an English proctor called Mr Hugh Spaldyng then in St Thomas's hospital, to be spent for two causes, one to make a chest with two different locks and keys, to be set within the hospital, the warden thereof having one key and their proctor the other for the safekeeping therein of all kinds of evidences and acts in their proctor's keeping in the court of Rome concerning the monastery, Coldingham or any other place pertaining to them; the other cause was to make entreaty to the pope to revoke the bull granted to the king of Scots for the appropriation of the place and lordship of Coldingham towards the support of his chapel. What Mr Hugh has done with the ducats in respect of the aforementioned, they are not certain nor is Robert Sotheron' certified thereof. He and they both request him to make inquiry in the matter and to certify them as to what is done therein, and, if any of the money has not been spent, that it be delivered to Peter de Mellinis and they may be informed what it is, since Robert delivered the ducats from good affection for the welfare of the monastery and trusts to be repaid by them.
Date: Durham, 16 October 1478.
Printed in: Historiae Dunelmensis Scriptores Tres (Surtees Society 9, 1839), p.ccclxvi-ccclxvii.
Digitised version

f.186v   13 October 1478
Memorandum that one letter was issued for admitting John Casson' as apparitor of Howdenshire according to the form of a similar letter to a certain John Flecher, previously written in this register on f.65[r].
Date: 13 October 1478.
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f.186v   14 October 1478
Letter (subscription: by Robert, prior and the convent of Durham), (margin and superscription: to Peter de Mellinis, their proctor in the Roman curia), stating that the prior had recently received his letters, in which he certified him about his doings in the Roman curia in the matter of the priorate of Coldingham, moved by the words of Patrick, their adversary, who says that he has a certain treaty of agreement with them. Peter should know that they in no way intend to come to an agreement with him or to give him any pension. They are certain that it is beyond his power to introduce them into the possession of the barony of Coldingham, and that whatever shall be done they will be deprived of possession unless they obtain the good will of the king of Scots, or at least unless a certain vill called Berwick[-upon-Tweed], now in the hands of the Scots, should be in those of the English who, after sentences were given in the Roman curia, could introduce the prior and convent into peaceful posssession, although the Scots were unwilling. It therefore seems pointless to spend money on this and better to let the matter rest until God provides something better. He should know that they had been disturbed at the arrival of the bulls of Richard, bishop of Carlisle, who asserted that he wishes to enjoy the monastery, granted to him in commendam by the pope, unless the king commands otherwise. He did not wish to show any authentic title by virtue of which he should enjoy this. The king informed him that he should enjoy only his episcopacy and not the priorate, to which he assented, and they therefore now have another prior. They marvel greatly that he, their proctor, wished in any way to labour for their monastery, which has been ruled for more than 400 years by its own prior, to pass to another in commendam, since that would be injurious to them. He is to resist if such efforts are made on anyone's behalf in future. They have sent a proxy to him and wish to grant him his old fee of 40s yearly (for their debts and the great charges incumbent on them on the monastery's behalf do not allow them to bestow large fees) but if they should impose any new business on him, remuneration will be made.
Date: Durham, 14 October 1478.
Printed in The Priory of Coldingham , [ed J. Raine] (Surtees Society 12, 1841), p.235-236.
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f.186v-187r   15 November 1478
Memorandum that three quittances were issued in the customary form, one for the provost of Hemingbrough concerning the payment of 33s 4d for the term of Martinmas before the date of the presents, in full payment of a yearly pension of 5 marks, the second for Mr Edmund Mynskipp', rector of Walkington, concerning the payment of 50s in full payment of a yearly pension of 100s for the said term, and the third for Thomas Rudd, vicar of Welton, concerning the payment of 20s for the same term in full payment of a yearly pension of 40s.
Date: 15 November 1478.
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f.187r   2 November 1478
Memorandum that two letters of removal were issued according to the common form, one for removing Richard Hertilpole [monk of Durham] from the monastery [of Durham] to Holy Island, and the other for Richard Blakwell' [monk of Durham] from Holy Island to Finchale.
Date: 2 November 1478.
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f.187r   16 November [1478]
Memorandum that Robert, prior of Durham, on the authority of an apostolic bull granted to him and his successors, has dispensed in the customary form Thomas Castell and William Cawthorn', [monks of Durham], being in their twenty-second year, that they may freely and lawfully be promoted to the priestly order and afterwards minister in it, notwithstanding the defect of their age and any apostolic constitutions and other statutes and customs to the contrary.
Date: 16 November “as above”.
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f.187r   4 December 1478
Memorandum that a commission was issued for Mr William Poteman, Mr Alexander Lee and Mr William Laybron' to correct offences and transgressions committed by the ministers and inhabitants in the collegiate church of Howden, whose authority extends to Michaelmas next and then expires, as is evident in the writings.
Date: 4 December 1478.
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f.187r   3 February 1479
Memorandum that a <commission> {certification} was issued for the convocation of the clergy of York, according to the common form which is evident on the (blank) folio preceding.
Date: 3 February 1478/9.
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f.187r   22 October 1471
Bond by Richard Boweman', newly admitted chaplain of the chapel of Hylton in the parish of Monkwearmouth, Durham diocese, stating that he has taken a bodily oath that he will be obedient to the prior and convent of Durham, rectors of the church of Wearmouth, in all and sundry mandates of the church and will keep all and sundry contained in a certain agreement made by Hugh [of Le Puiset], formerly bishop of Durham [1153-95], between Germanus, onetime prior of Durham, and the convent thereof on the one part and Alexander Hilton' on the other concerning the aforesaid chapel and the chaplain who is to serve therein, and, insofar as he can, will cause any others who are to stay there to keep them and will preserve indemnified in all its rights the mother church of Wearmouth, of which the chapel is known to be a dependent. He publicly renounces any appeals and their proceedings interposed in the Roman curia or elsewhere by Robert Staynton', onetime chaplain thereof, and all and sundry apostolic letters sought or to be sought in that regard, so that they neither give advantage ( “suffragium”) to Richard nor bring harm to the prior and convent in future.
With his signet attached.
Date: Bearpark, 22 October 1471.
Witnesses; Richard Creswell', chaplain, Richard Claxton', gentleman, and Roger Morland, clerk.
Original: DCD 4.4.Spec.7.
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f.187v   12 January 1479
Memorandum that a letter of a corrody for le Meason de dieu was issued according to the common form for John Belacysse and Joan, his wife, through the death of William Herynger, lately deceased.
Date: 12 January 1478/9.
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f.187v   [?1479]
Language:   English
Letter [by Robert, prior of Durham], (margin: to William Laybron'), informing him that he has lately received his letters, in which he desires a different answer than he has previously had concerning certain goods which he claims to have from the prior. The prior thinks in right and conscience that he ought not to satisfy him. As for the 20 marks, he knows nothing thereof since it is fifteen years since he [Prior William Ebchester ?] died and the prior may confirm that no penny hereof has come to his hands. As for the ten marks that William asks for dan Richard Billyngh[am] [monk of Durham], he is to understand that he was not desired to put any money in his [Richard's] hand for the welfare and profit of the prior's pleas, for commonly either the persons had pledges for any money which has been borrowed for expediting their needs, particularly for the welfare of their monastery, or else had surety therefore under their common seal. Considering that he has long been a friend to them, he prays him to continue as such and not to desire what seems to him inconvenient and greatly against right and conscience for him to bear or be charged herewith in any way.
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f.187v-188r   15 December 1481
Language:   English
Indenture between Robert, prior and the convent of Durham and Thomas Blaxston', esquire confirming Thomas's grant that it will be lawful for them to make and fasten with piles, rushes, stone, timber [etc.] the mill pond of Snawdon [at Wolviston] belonging to the prior and convent on Thomas's ground, with free entry and issue to the same through his ground when necessary and to purge and cleanse the sewer thereof whenever necessary henceforth without any impediment or disturbance by the said [Thomas]. For this, they have given him £10 16s 8d. Thomas binds himself, his heirs and executors to the prior and convent in a bond of £40 to be paid to them whensoever Thomas obstructs or disturbs them against the form of the aforesaid grant or this present indenture.
Date: Durham, 15 December 1481.
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f.188r   15 December 1481
Bond by Thomas Blaxston, esquire, to Robert, prior and the convent of Durham, for £40, to be paid to the prior and convent or their successors or certain attorney at Christmas next.
Sealed with his seal.
Date: 15 December 1481.
with
Condition of the bond that if the above Thomas faithfully fulfils all and sundry conditions specified in certain indentures [as f.187v-188r above] between Thomas and the prior and convent touching the millpond of Snawdon pertaining to the prior and convent, as is more fully contained in the aforesaid indentures, then the present bond will be considered null; otherwise it should remain in force.
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f.188r-v   [?1481]
List of the goods removed by his predecessor, Richard Bell', bishop of Carlisle and (margin: recovered in the first year of Robert Ebchestr', prior) consisting principally of various vessels (described), commonly silver and gilded, including two silver and gilded fonts engraved on the base with Richard's arms, but also several paxbred, candleabras and spoons.
Printed in: [J. Raine, ed.], The Priory of Finchale, (Surtees Society 6, 1837), p.xxx-xxxi.
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f.188v   [?1481]
Language:   English
Letter [by Robert, prior of Durham], (margin: to the bishop of St Asaph's), whereas he has written to the prior for the next vacancy of the vicarage of [Kirk] Merrington on behalf of Mr William Brown', he is to understand that Richard Ratlif' showed the prior and had witnesses that he had a grant thereof from his predecessor and wished him to ratify it. On the advice of his fellow monks and considering the great rule he bears by the king's grace in their region, the prior made a grant to him of the said vicarage if the [person] he should propose were found suitable. The prior therefore cannot please the bishop in this matter but will in future show more special favour to Mr William to assist his promotion as soon as he can make certain that his own friends are provided for.
Marginal note in Latin: because it was against canon law and natural reason with the vicar surviving, as is evident in Decretals [book] 3.
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Flyleaf recto
Various pen-trials including:
quotations from Socrates, Ovid and Tullius [Cicero];
the beginning of a grant of a corrody to John Crosbie and Alice, his daughter, lately held by William Crosbie and the said John;
the opening of a [quittance ?] by James Browne of the parish of Acley in the county of Lincolnshire for a debt of 6s 8d {to Clement West}, knight, and 40s for repairs.
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Flyleaf verso
Blank
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