Membr. 7 (9) b
16 Nov. 1327
Memorandum that on Monday after the Feast of St Martin
(11 Nov.), Robert de Ely, against whom complaints had been
made by William Haunsard and other fishmongers of London,
for injuring their trade at Little Yarmouth, came in person
to the Husting and brought various letters from merchants
of Southampton, Salisbury and Lynn, the Hanse of Almaine,
the Cinque Ports, Bayonne and Bordeaux, who attended the
last Fair at Great Yarmouth, testifying that the said Robert
was guiltless of the charges brought against him. Whereupon
the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty held him as excused. (L)
12 Nov. 1327
Another letter from the Mayor etc. of London to the
Mayor and Barons of Winchelsea, acknowledging their reply.
As regards the toll taken at Southwark, that bailiwick had
only been in the hands of the City a little more than six
months, and there were other lords having rights there, such
as the King, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Earl of
"Garenne (fn. 1) ." Careful inquiry would be made as to whether
the toll on fish had been exacted by the latter. Dated at
London, the morrow of St Martin [11 Nov.] 1327. (F)
No date
The King's writ to the Commonalty of Great Yarmouth
commanding them to cease from detaining the ships and
merchandise of Little Yarmouth and Gorleston, and from
blockading them from the sea, since those towns would
ultimately, on the death of the Earl of Richmond (fn. 2) , revert to
the King. The Commonalty is ordered to send two burgesses
with full powers to treat, so that the matter may be settled
in the King's Council. (L)
15 Nov. 1327
Letter from Stephen (de Gravesend), Bishop of London,
acknowledging receipt of letters from the Mayor and promising to pay the City a visit, after he had transacted certain
business which called him into Essex. Dated at Wykham,
15 Nov. (F)
No date
Reply from the Bailiffs and men of Great Yarmouth to
the Mayor etc. of London as regards alleged opposition to
London merchants. They deny that such opposition had been
offered and complain that the London merchants had prevented other merchants from entering Great Yarmouth by
armed force. The trouble had arisen because a toll was taken
at the entrance of the port for the upkeep of the town. (F)
Membr. 8 (10)
4 May 1327
Pleas of Land held in the Husting of London on Monday
after the Feast of SS. Philip and James [1 May] A
o
1 Edw. III [1327]
Writ to the Sheriffs of London that they take into the
King's hand a certain messuage and shop in the suburb of
London, claimed by William Frankeleyn and Alice his wife
in the Bench at Westminster (fn. 3) against George de Percy and
Margaret his wife, whom they are to summon to appear at
the next Husting to hear judgment. Dated 20 Oct. Ao 20
(Edw. II) [1326].
The Sheriffs returned that the parties appeared and essoined, as appears in the Roll of Essoins. (L)
Marginal note: Parvum cape
(fn. 4)
retornabile in Hustengo per
Justiciarios de Banco.
At this Court, Thomas, son of William de Bekles, was
adjudged of full age to receive the sum of £15 from the
executors of Wymond Brocher, who are to be summoned to
appear on Wednesday before the Chamberlain to hand over
the money. (L)
10 March 1327
Charter of Edward III to the Girdlers of London (fn. 5) . Dated
10 March Ao 1 Edw. III [1326-7]. (F)
17 March 1327
Memorandum that on Tuesday after the Feast of St
Gregory Pope [12 March] Ao 1 Edw. III [1326-7] came
John Broud, sheather, into the Husting of Common Pleas
with a petition praying the Mayor and Commonalty to assent
to the following articles: That no one of the mistery work by
night, or on Sundays, or on the great Feast-days of the
Apostles, Martyrs and Confessors; that no servant or "vallet"
be received to work until he had covenanted with his master
to remain the full term of his service; and that no one of the
mistery receive a stranger to work, unless the latter had
sufficient security for his good behaviour, or had been enfranchised of the City (F). Thereupon the Court ordered
that the better and more sufficient men of the mistery be
summoned for the following Monday, on which day the
above-mentioned articles were confirmed, subject to appropriate penalties. (L)
At this Court came good men of the mistery of Pouchmakers with certain articles (fn. 6) designed to prevent deception
and false work in their trade and prayed that they might be
confirmed (L). They complained that foreigners, by conspiracy with false workers of the City, were selling sheepleather scraped on the back in counterfeit of roe-leather
(quir de Roo), and that such false leather, when used on
plate-armour or on plate-gauntlets, would not last two days
if it was wetted. They prayed that no leather-dyer should be
allowed to dye such work, and that it should be confiscated
and burnt. Foreigners also were accustomed to sell to other
foreigners by night pouches, laces (layners) and breechgirdles (braels) stuffed with old linings (escauberks), hog's
hair and flocks, which goods were spread throughout the
country as being of London manufacture, to the great
scandal of the City. The said foreigners likewise haunted
brew-houses by night and seduced apprentices and servants
to hand over to them the goods of City pouchmakers. The
pouchmakers prayed that foreigners imprisoned for such
offences should not be delivered until they had made restitution, and that they should not be allowed to sit at their stalls
on Sundays and Feast days, or peddle their goods through
the City (F). The above articles were accepted and confirmed by the Court. Certain dyers of leather-goods appeared
in court and agreed to observe them in all points, after which
Ralph Gandre, Walter atte More, Robert de Flete, and Pagan
le Purser were elected and sworn, on behalf of the mistery,
to ensure that the articles be observed and that offenders be
presented before the Mayor and Aldermen. (L)
Membr. 8 (10)b
26 May 1327
Agreement (fn. 7) made between men of the trade of Saddlers
of London on the one part and men of the trades of Saddlebow Makers (fustarii), Painters, and Loriners of copper and
iron of the same City on the other part, on Tuesday after the
Feast of the Ascension [21 May] 1327. (L and F)
Membr. 9 (11)
2 May 1327
Writ dated at Nottingham, 29 April (L), with a covering
letter under the Privy Seal, 2 May 1327 (F), calling on the
City of London to provide the King with an armed contingent (fn. 8) , mounted on horses of the value of 30s or 40s, for
service against the Scots. The army is to concentrate at
Newcastle-on-Tyne on Monday before the Feast of the
Ascension [21 May], (L)
The names of one hundred horsemen, provided by the
Wards in different proportions, who mustered at West
Smithfield, whence they proceeded to "la Barnette" for
Newcastle-on-Tyne, each man receiving 100s. (L)
Membr. 9 (11)b
9 July 1327
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty to
the King, announcing the dispatch of 100 horsemen and 100
footmen (fn. 9) to Newcastle, their wages being paid until their
arrival there. Some delay had occurred in the matter owing
to reports that the King and the Scots had made peace, or
at least a long truce. They pray that this aid may not be
drawn into precedent. Dated Thursday after the Translation
of St Thomas [7 July]. (F)
Membr. 10 (12)
6 Oct. 1326
Letter from Isabella (fn. 10) , Queen of England, Lady of Ireland
and Countess of Ponthieu, and Edward, Duke of "Guyene,"
Earl of Chester, Ponthieu and Monstroile to the Commonalty
of London reminding them of former letters notifying their
arrival in England and praying their assistance, to which no
reply had been made. They demand their help again, so that
they may not have cause to punish the City, and they assure
them that their object is to advance the interests of the
realm. The citizens are requested to arrest Hugh le Despenser, whenever opportunity occurs. Dated at " Baudak (fn. 11) ,"
6 Oct. (F)
No date
The same to certain " Seignours" and other good men of
the Commonalty of London (fn. 12) , thanking them for having held
the City and the Tower of London, and requesting them to
safeguard the Tower and its contents. The Queen and Prince
promise their favour, and remind them that Hugh le Despenser, the younger, had assumed Royal power, so that the
King was in subjection to him, and had oppressed and disinherited loyal men, to the danger of the Church, the Crown
and the people. The citizens are desired to prevent any attack
on the Bishop of London, and to send Sir John, the King's
son, and other prisoners, with the exception of Sir John de
la Beche, under safe conduct to them, and also to protect
the ships in which the Queen and her adherents had come. (F)
Reply to the above from the Mayor and Commonalty,
assuring them of the City's sympathy, and promising compliance with their wishes, but begging that Sir John may
remain with the citizens. (F)
Membr. 10 (12)b
13 Nov. 1326
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of the
City, referring to a former promise to uphold the Queen's
cause sent by the hands of the Queen's messenger, Sir John
Giffard. They point out that Hildebrand Sotherman of
Almaine, whom the Queen had recommended to them, was
an enemy of the City, and beg her not to continue her favour
to him. Dated 13 Nov. Ao 20 Edw. II [1326]. (F)
Membr. 11 (13)
25 Feb. 1326
Letter from the Mayor and Commonalty of London to
King Edward II (written at the request of Richard de
Hakeneye), desiring him to write to the town of Lübeck for
the restoration to the said Richard of a quantity of wool,
which John le White and Arnald his brother, merchants of
Almaine, had carried away, leaving part of the purchaseprice unpaid. Dated 25 Feb. Ao 19 Edw. II [1325-6]. (L)
9 March 1326
Letter from the King to the Burgomasters, Echevins,
Aldermen and Commonalty of Lübeck in accordance with
the above. Dated at Leicester, 9 March Ao 19 Edw. II
[1325-6]. (L)
Membr. 12 (14)
26 Nov. 1324
Record of proceedings in the Husting of Common Pleas
on Monday after the Feast of St Katherine [25 Nov.] Ao
18 Edw. II [1324] and before the Mayor and Aldermen, on
a writ of 16 Nov. 1324, against Adam Hurel, John Saleman
and Andrew his son for assaulting Master Ralph de Norton,
Dean of the Arches, and James de Hurle, his Commissary.
The accused persons were mainprised to keep the peace, but
owing to a subsequent offence, a jury was summoned, which
found them guilty of assaulting the plaintiffs by the door of
Robert de Farnham's tavern in Cheap. Afterwards the parties
came to an agreement out of court. (L)
Membr. 13 (15)
1 May 1326
Writ dated at Kenilworth, 1 May Ao 19 Edw. II [1326],
ordering the Sheriffs to publish the King's ordinance (fn. 13) fixing
the Staples of wool, leather and woolfells at Newcastle-onTyne, York, Lincoln, Norwich, London, Winchester, Exeter,
Bristol, Dublin, Drogheda, Cork, Shrewsbury, Carmarthen
and Cardiff; and of tin at Lostwithiel, Truro and Ashburton.
[The text follows.] (F)
21 May 1326
Letter from the King to Hamo de Chykewell, Mayor, acknowledging the receipt of his letter informing the King of
the fact that Flemings, Brabanters and other foreigners had
been buying all the teasels, bure, madder, woad and fuller's
earth and other materials for making cloth that they could
lay their hands on, in order to subvert the Staple, and that
he (the Mayor) had arrested 20 tuns which had been shipped
for abroad. The King commends his action and charges him
to prevent the exportation of such materials in future. Dated
at Saltwode, 21 May Ao 19 Edw. II [1326]. (F)
30 May 1326
The King's writ (fn. 14) to the Mayor and Sheriffs prohibiting
the export of "taseles" and fuller's earth... [30 May 1326].
(L)
Membr. (16)
Proceedings against bakers, for stealing dough from
moulding-boards (fn. 15) . A drawing of the pillory follows. (L)
Cedula attached
Charter (fn. 16) of Edward III to the Girdlers of London. Dated
10 March Ao 1 Edw. III [1326-7]. (F)
Membr. 14 (17)
9 Nov. 1327
Common Pleas held in the Husting, London, on Monday
before the Feast of S
t
Martin [11 Nov.] A
o 1 Edw. III
[1327]
4 Nov. 1327
The King's writ to the Mayor and Sheriffs with regard to
disturbers of the peace. The King has heard that evildoers
have formed unlawful confederacies in the City since the
beginning of his reign, and have been engaged in beating,
wounding and killing citizens and others, robbing persons of
their goods, and holding to ransom those who visit the City
and suburbs on business. The Mayor and Sheriffs are ordered
to hold inquiries, by the oaths of good and lawful men of
their bailiwicks, as to the truth of the above reports, and to
commit to prison until further orders all persons indicted
before them for such offences, or such as they may find perpetrating them. Dated at Nottingham, 4 Nov. Ao 1 Edw. III
[1327]. (L)
8 Nov. 1327
Writ (fn. 17) to the same forbidding the carrying of swords, clubs,
cross-bows, and bows for discharging stones and clay pellets
(pelotas terreas) in the City. Offenders are to be committed
to prison until further orders. This prohibition does not
apply to the sergeants-at-arms of the King and Queen
Isabella, nor to the servants (valettis) of earls and barons of
the realm, viz. each earl and baron is allowed to have his
servant carrying his sword in his presence. Dated at Nottingham, 8 Nov.
Note that a similar writ was sent to John de Grantham,
Mayor, on 18 Nov. Ao 2 Edw. III [1328]. (L)
8 Nov. 1327
Writ (fn. 18) to the same ordering them to punish such bakers,
taverners, millers, cooks, poulterers, fishmongers, butchers,
brewers and cornmongers as are found to be lax in their
work and misteries, and to discourage by corporal punishments and other severe measures, those evildoers who go
about the city by day and night with swords, clubs, bucklers,
and other arms, beating and ill-treating individuals, either
out of wantonness or by the instigation of others. Dated as
above. (L)
8 Nov. 1327
Writ to the same. The King is given to understand that
vintners and their taverners, selling wine by retail in the City
and suburbs, mix weak and corrupt wine with other wine
and sell the mixture at the same price as good and pure
wine, not allowing their customers to see whether the wine
is drawn in measures from casks or otherwise, to the great
scandal of the City and in corruption of the bodily health of
the purchasers. The Mayor and Sheriffs are ordered to make
a proclamation in the City forbidding these practices, and to
exact from offenders fines for the King's use. Dated as
above. (L)
8 Nov. 1327
Writ to Hamo de Chigwell, Mayor, ordering him to punish
by imprisonment or otherwise persons who are rebellious
and disobedient to him and his officers, in matters relating
to the custody of the City, and also all others dwelling in the
City or repairing thither, who are notoriously suspected.
The Mayor's proceedings in this matter are not to be called
in question except before the King himself (coram nobis) or
by his orders. Dated as above.
Note that similar letters patent were sent to John de
Grantham, Mayor, on 28 Nov. Ao 2 Edw. III [1328]. (L)
Membr. 14 (17) b
9 Nov. 1327
Petition (F) of Brother Hildebrand Burdon, Prior of the
Order of Preaching Friars (fn. 19) , to the Mayor and Aldermen for
permission to rebuild a gate erected circa 1309, so as to
enclose a lane which extended from the gate of the Prior of
Okeburn on the east to the Fleet on the west. A year ago a
mob had broken into their close, destroyed the gate and
stolen the lead from the turrets; two thieves being captured
with the mainour of lead upon them. The petitioner recites
the original licence (F) of 14 May Ao 2 Edw. II [1309],
granted by Nicholas de Farndon, Mayor, to John de Wrotham,
then Prior, and the King's confirmation (L) dated 21 May
of the same year. By this licence the Friars were permitted
to enclose the above lane, yet so as to preserve the citizens'
right of access to the Wall, and right of way thereby from
Ludgate to the Thames.
Permission was granted by the Mayor, Aldermen and
Commonalty, subject to the terms of the above licence.
4 Nov. 1327
Pleas before the Mayor on Wednesday after the Feast
of All Saints [1 Nov.] A
o 1 Edw. III [1327]
Note: This plea was also entered in the Rolls of Common
Pleas of Monday before the Feast of St Martin [11 Nov.].
Record of proceedings against John le Kyng, who had
claimed a tenement in the parish of St Nicholas Shambles
when the will of Hugh de Garton was proved in the Husting,
for having unlawfully taken possession of the said tenement,
and for having raised the hue and cry against the Sheriffs,
when the latter wished to enter in order to execute the terms
of the will. The defendant was found guilty by a jury and
adjudged to pay the Sheriff 20 marks damages. (L)
Membr. 15 (18)
2 June 1327
Letter from the Bailiffs, Mayor and Echevin of Wissant (fn. 20)
to the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London, acknowledging the receipt of their letter, which informed them that
on Good Friday a ship belonging to Adam Hurel and John
Genge, citizens of London, had been seized by Frenchmen.
The writers declare that no one under their jurisdiction was
concerned in the matter. Dated at Wissant, 2 June. (F)
28 Nov. 1327
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to the Mayor and Barons of Winchelsea, acknowledging their letters which promised to do justice to Adam
Lucas. They agreed that he should go with Henry de Gisors,
Nicholas Pyk, Thomas de Lodelawe and Thomas de Duston
to meet representatives of Winchelsea at a certain place,
there to discuss matters touching his claim and the points in
dispute between London and Winchelsea. Dated Saturday
before the Feast of St Andrew [30 Nov.]. (F)
25 Nov. 1327
Letter from the Mayor etc. of London to Robert de
Walkefare, Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk, and to John
Haward, praying their assistance to recover certain moneys
due to Adam de Salesbury, Alderman, on recognizances from
John de Wridewell. Dated the Feast of St Katherine [25
Nov.]. (F)
26 Nov. 1327
The same to the Mayor, Bailiffs and Echevins of Boulogne,
desiring them to assist Adam Hurel and John Genge to recover their ship called "La Blithe" and its cargo of wool
etc., which on Good Friday last was seized by men of
Boulogne, Calais and "Whytesand," during a truce between
the Kings of England and France. Dated the morrow of
St Katherine [25 Nov.]. (F)
A note to the effect that a similar letter had been sent to
Calais. (L)
27 Nov. 1327
Letter from the Mayor and Commonalty of the City of
London to the "President" and Convent of the Abbey of
St Edmunds, thanking them for their notification that merchants of London might attend the Fair at Bury St Edmunds
as formerly without hindrance. Dated on Friday after the
Feast of St Katherine [25 Nov.]. (F)
Membr. 15 (18)b
9 Dec. 1327
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to the Mayor and Barons of Winchelsea, notifying
them that Adam Lucas was about to visit Winchelsea with a
view to prosecuting his suit. Dated 9 Dec. (F)
26 Dec. 1327
Letter from Hamo de Chigwell, Mayor, and the Commonalty of London to John (Hotham), Bishop of Ely, the King's
Chancellor, praying him to command the custom-collectors
at Hull to let the merchandise of Simon Fraunceys pass free
of the tax on wool, inasmuch as citizens of London were by
the King's orders quit of such tax. Dated on Saturday after
Christmas. (F)
1 Jan. 1328
Letter from the Mayors and Echevin of Boulogne to the
Mayor etc. of London, certifying that no one within their
jurisdiction had any part in the seizure of the ship and goods
belonging to Adam Hurel and John Genge. Dated the Feast
of the Circumcision [1 Jan.]. (F)
11 Dec. 1327
Writ for the election of members to represent the City in
the Parliament to meet at York on Sunday after the Feast of
the Purification B.M. [2 Feb.] when the conditions of peace
between the King and Robert de Brus would be discussed.
Dated at Coventry 11 Dec. Ao 1 Edw. III [1327]. (L)
Membr. 16 (19)
Memorandum that among certain liberties granted by
Edw. III (fn. 21) to the citizens of London, it is contained that the
citizens should have Infangenthef and Outfangenthef and the
chattels of felons of all those tried before them within the
liberty of the City aforesaid, and of all those of the said
liberty to be tried at the Gaol of Newgate, by virtue of which
grant, deliveries were afterwards made before the Mayor,
Sheriffs and Aldermen at the Guildhall of prisoners taken
with the mainour, at the suit of certain persons as appears
below etc., and those that were convicted were hanged at the
King's gallows, viz. at "le Elmes" near Tybourne. (L)
[All the cases which follow for the first year of Edw. III
(with the exception of the last) are entered in Letter Book E
fos. 234-234 b. See Cal. of Letter Book E, pp. 276-8.]
17 Nov. 1327
Delivery of Infangenthef at the Guildhall before Hamo
de Chigwell, Mayor, Henry Darcy and John Hauteyn,
Sheriffs, Gregory de Norton, and certain aldermen
[named] on Tuesday after the Feast of S
t
Martin
[11 Nov.] A
o 1 Edw. III [1327]
John atte Gate of Chalgrave, co. Beds, attached at the
suit of Joan de Reynham, with the mainour of a tunic and
hood stolen from her within Newgate on Thursday after the
Feast of St Michael, put himself on his country. The jury
found him guilty and valued the mainour at 10d. The
prisoner was remanded to prison for eight days and then set
at liberty. (L)
Anno 2 Edw. III
1 March 1328
Delivery of Infangenthef at the Guildhall on Tuesday
after the Feast of S
t
Mathias [24 Feb.] the same year
Walter le Wyght (Walsh?), William de Cornewaill, John
le Fourbour, and Richard de Saunford were attached at the
suit of John Emelyn of Braunfeld, with the mainour of a
gown (colobium) of bluet and 18s 6d in cash, stolen from him
in the tavern of Thomas Drinkwater on London Bridge.
The aforesaid Walter declared himself a clerk, and as he
was found by the Ordinary (fn. 22) to be a clerk, he was committed
chaplain, who was later called by the same name. Indicted persons who
claimed benefit of clergy were tried with a jury at Newgate in order to
to Newgate until the next sessions. The other prisoners were
found guilty by a jury and were hanged. No chattels. (L)
Membr. 16 (19) b
9 Aug. 1328
Delivery etc. on Tuesday the eve of S
t
Lawrence
[10 Aug.] A
o 2 Edw. III [1328]
Joan la Lavender prosecuted Alexander le Nedelere for
the felony of a "Worthstede" tunic stolen from her on
Saturday last outside Newgate. The case was adjourned for
lack of jurors. Afterwards the prisoner was found guilty
and the tunic valued at 10d. And because the value was less
than 12½d, the said Alexander was committed to Newgate
for 40 days, and the prosecutor recovered her tunic. (L)
30 Dec. 1328
Delivery etc. on Friday in Christmas week the same
year
Robert de Hennewod prosecuted Adam de Salopia for
stealing a silver cup value 7s on Wednesday last in the tavern
of William de Bodelee in Friday Street. The case was adjourned for lack of jurors. On the morrow the jury found
him not guilty. Judgment that he go quit, and that the
above Robert be taken into custody for withdrawing from
the prosecution. The cup to remain with the Sheriffs. (L)
13 July 1329
Delivery etc. on Thursday before the Feast of S
t
Margaret [20 July] A
o 3 Edw. III [1329]
Geoffrey de Wynchecombe, Maud de Oxford and Roesia
de Burton were attached at the suit of William de Leyghton,
porter, with the mainour of five cups of mazer stolen on
Tuesday after the Feast of St Barnabas [11 June] the same
year in St Lawrence Lane. The above Geoffrey declared
himself a clerk and was remanded to prison. The jury found
the prisoner Maud guilty, and she was hanged. Roesia was
acquitted. Order was given to take the prosecutor into
custody till he pay a fine for his false appeal against her.
Note that this appeal was made before Henry de Combemartyn (fn. 23) . (L)
Membr. 17 (20)
19 Nov. 1327
The King's writ to the Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk,
enjoining him to make proclamation in the towns of Great
Yarmouth, Little Yarmouth and Gorleston, that the hostilities
in which the inhabitants had been engaged must cease. He
is ordered to arrest offenders. The King had previously given
orders for those towns to send representatives to him with a
view to composing their differences, but the town of Great
Yarmouth had failed to comply. Their bailiffs must appear
within fifteen days to answer for their contempt. Dated at
Clipston, 19 Nov.. Ao 1 Edw. III [1327]. (L)
29 Nov. 1327
The King's writ to Geoffrey de Scrope and his brother
Justices of the King's Bench, ordering them to inquire as to
the validity of a charter granted by Edw. I to Great Yarmouth, in virtue of which the burgesses of that town had
obtained a writ of forstalment to the prejudice of the inhabitants of Little Yarmouth and Gorleston. Dated at
Clipston, 29 Nov. Ao 1 Edw. III [1327]. (L)
30 Jan. 1328
Petition (fn. 24) to the King by the merchants of the City of
London trading round Yarmouth, complaining that the men
of Great Yarmouth had interfered with their freedom of
trade in Little Yarmouth, where they had their houses for
salting herrings, and had prevented them from buying fresh
herring, except from certain men of Great Yarmouth, who
were forestalling fish, with the result that prices had greatly
risen. They pray a remedy. (F)
Covering letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty to the King, desiring that the above petition may be
brought before his Council. Dated 30 Jan. Ao 1 Edw. III
[1326–7. Query: 1327–8?]. (F)
12 Jan. 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty to the
same, notifying that the City had elected Richard de Betoyne,
Robert de Kelsey, John de Grantham and John Priour,
junior—three or two of them—to attend Parliament at York
on Sunday after the Feast of the Purification B.M. [2 Feb.].
Dated 12 Jan. Ao 1 Edw. III [1327–8]. (L)
27 Jan. 1328
Letter from the Mayor and Commonalty of the City of
London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the town of Bristol,
praying that the wool—viz. eight large sacks of lambswool
of the Swansea clip (de la coilette de Swynesaye), each sack
weighing full three weys by the Winchester tron (fn. 25) —due to
Walter le Foundour under a bond dated Ao 6 Edw. II from
the Mayor, Bailiffs and Commonalty of Bristol for the time
being, may be delivered to him. Dated Wednesday before
the Purification B.M. [2 Feb.] A.D. 1327[–8]. (F)
26 Jan. 1328
Letter from the Mayor and Bailiffs of Oxford (fn. 26) to the
Mayor and Aldermen of London, asking for advice in a case
where a certain Philip de Wormenhal devised tenements to
his son Thomas, which tenements he and his wife Alianore
had jointly purchased. The wife, as executrix, refused to
surrender the tenements to the son. Dated 26 Jan. (F)
Note that the letter was returned to Oxford with an indorsement by the Mayor, Aldermen and Sheriffs, to the
effect that the wife had the free disposal of tenements jointly
purchased by her and her husband. (L)
30 Jan. 1328
Letter from John de Grantham and John Priour, who had
been sent to represent the merchants of the City at York on
the question of removing the Staple out of England, to the
Mayor and Commonalty of the City of London, reporting
that the whole "commonalty" of merchants of England
were in favour of the Staple being established abroad (fn. 27) and
had given a verdict to this effect before Master Henry de
Clif, who had been assigned by the King to take their
opinion. The merchants estimated that the change would
benefit the commonalty of the realm to the extent of 20s a
sack, and they had chosen two merchants as their attorneys
to pursue the matter in Parliament. On the other hand, the
writers, representing London, and the merchants of York,
Lincoln, Winchester and Bristol were opposed to the removal
of the Staple. In order not to incur the enmity of the King
and his Council by their disagreement, and because they
wished to be further advised by the City, they had prayed
that their answer might be delayed until the meeting of
Parliament, which would take place on Monday after Candlemas. Accordingly they request that the "Commune" might
be summoned, and the result of their deliberations sent by
letter to York on the aforesaid Monday. As regards news
from the North, the writers had none to communicate.
Written at York on Saturday before the Purification B.M.
[2 Feb.]. (F)
4 Feb. 1328
The City's reply to the above. They had unanimously
agreed that it was best that the Staple should remain in
England and this was to be strenuously urged by John de
Grantham and John Priour. Rather than that the Staple
should be removed across the sea and a Mayor of the Staple
appointed there, it was better that every merchant should
be allowed to trade where he liked. A letter had been sent
to the Mayor and Commonalty of York to uphold the City's
representatives and to prevent the removal of the Staple, and
another letter had been despatched to Richard de Betoyne,
enjoining him to do nothing against their assent and the
assent of the Commonalty of the City. Dated on Thursday
after the Purification B.M. [2 Feb.]. (F)
Membr. 18 (21)
5 March 1327
Letter from Raymond de Landiras, Archdeacon of
Bordeaux, to the Bishop of London and the Dean and
Chapter of St Paul's, reciting two Bulls of Pope John XXII,
appointing Gerald de Cantalauza to a Canonry and the next
vacant Prebend in the Cathedral (fn. 28) . Dated Bordeaux 5 March
1326[–] (L). Marginal note: Copia bulle misse Episcopo &
Decano & Capitulo Londoniarum pro Gerardo de Cantalauza
pro quo negocio Anketinus de Gisorcio & alii maxime fuerunt
culpati.
Membr. 18 (21)b
25 March 1327
Notarial instrument recording the appointment of Peter
de la Monga, Peter Boneti, Gerald de Porta and Bernard de
Drohario as proctors by the above Gerald de Cantalauza.
Dated 25 March 1327. (L)
Membr. 19 (23)
29 Jan. 1328
Letter from the Mayor and Commonalty of York to the
Mayor, Sheriffs, Aldermen and Commonalty of London,
complaining of Richard de Betoyne's attitude at the Council
of York in advocating the removal of the Staple beyond the
sea, he himself claiming to be Mayor of the Staple (fn. 29) beyond
the sea. They could not believe that his conduct met with
the approval of the City, since they found John de Grantham
and John Priour of a different opinion. They pray the City
to let them know their feelings in the matter. Dated 29 Jan.
[1328]. (F)
4 Feb. 1328
Answer to the above. The City was strongly in favour of
keeping the Staple in England and had notified its wishes to
Richard de Betoyne, who had acted throughout entirely on
his own account, and not with the assent of the City. Rather
than that the Staple should be removed they were in favour
of merchants taking their goods where they liked, without
any Staple or Mayor of the Staple. Dated on Thursday after
the Purification B.M. [2 Feb.]. (F)
4 Feb. 1328
Letter from the Mayor etc. to Richard de Betoyne,
bidding him do nothing at the Council of York against the
wishes of the citizens. Dated as above. (F)
14 Feb. 1328
Letter from the Mayor and Commonalty of the City of
London to the Mayor and Barons of Winchelsea, praying for
an inquiry into an alleged attack made on Andrew de Modyng
ham, apprentice of William Cros, while on a visit to Hastings
at Christmas time. The said Andrew was sitting in the house
of John Roger of Hastings, when Henry Alard came with
three companions and began asking him questions as to
whence he came and whether he knew Adam Lucas of
London. Upon his saying he did know the person named,
he was villainously abused by Alard and his companions,
who afterwards lay in wait for him outside the town and
maltreated him. By beating his hack (son hakeneye) he was
fortunately able to escape back to Hastings, where he remained badly wounded until friends helped him to take a
safe road home. Dated 14 Feb. (F)
18 Feb. 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen, Sheriffs and Commonalty to Stephen (de Gravesend), Bishop of London, praying
a remission of the penance imposed by the Dean and Chapter
of St Paul's on Anketin de Gisors and Henry and Richard
his brothers, Francis Beaufleur and John de Hynton, for
having desecrated the Church of St Paul's (fn. 30) . Dated 18 Feb.
(F)
18 Feb. 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to the Mayor and Bailiffs of the town of Bedford,
desiring them to restore to Robert de Hakeneye the toll of
4 sacks of wool which they had taken of his goods, contrary
to the franchise of the City. Dated 18 Feb. (F)
15 Feb. 1328
Letter from the same to the Mayor, Echevins and good
men of the town of Rouen in Normandy, praying them to
assist John de Wrotham and Adam Hurel to recover money
entrusted to Massiot le Mariee of the town of "Ducleer sur
Seyne" to trade therewith. Dated 15 Feb. (F)
A note to the effect that a similar letter was sent to the
town of " Ducleer " in Normandy. (L)
Membr. 19 (23)b
18 Feb. 1328
Reply from the Mayor etc. of London to the letter from
the Mayor and Echevins of Boulogne. The writers had heard
that the ship of Adam Hurel and John Genge had been
seized by men of Boulogne, serving on board the "Oliver
Daveys" of Whytsand, of which Peter Freet was master,
who had carried her to Boulogne and had there sold both
ship and merchandise. They pray that inquiry may be made
into the matter. Dated 18 Feb. (F)
13 Jan. 1328
Letters from the same to the Mayor, Bailiffs, Echevins
and good men of Whytsand on the same subject. Dated
13 Jan. and 18 Feb. (F)
18 Feb. 1328
The same to the Mayor etc. of Calais. Dated 18 Feb.(F)
12 Feb. 1328
Letter from John de Grantham and John Priour, junior,
to the Mayor, Aldermen, Sheriffs and Commonalty of
London, reporting that they had done their best to carry out
instructions at York, but the will of the King and his Council
were independent of the advice of the people. The writers
understood that the City believed, on the strength of a letter
from the Mayor of York, that Richard Betoyne (fn. 31) had advocated the removal of the Staple abroad, and claimed by a
charter the office of Mayor of the Staple overseas. They wish
to testify that the said Richard attended an assembly of the
"Commune" of merchants in the Chapter House at York,
at which the writers and Richard de Edelmeton, William
atte Pole and other merchants from 28 towns were present,
when they discussed the Staple, as they were instructed to
do by the Chancellor. The merchants had put it to Richard
de Betoyne that he was their Mayor and he had denied it
(susmistrent au dit Richard de Bettoyne estre lour metre et il
respoundit qe noun), whereupon they answered him that he
ought to go and lay down his mayoralty in the place where
he took it up, and surrender the charters, which had cost
them dear. To this he replied that John de Charletone (fn. 32) had
the charter of their franchises and detained it, but that he
had himself, four years ago, caused a transcript to be made,
which he was ready to surrender if they wished. At this
point, the Mayor of York suddenly appeared, hand in hand
with John de Charletone, with three or four others of their
party and several members of the Commune of York, on
which Richard de Betoyne said he would not stay in any
place where John de Charletone was taken into counsel, and
he got up and left and did not return to the Council of the
merchants. For this reason Richard de Edelmeton and the
rest were angry with him. This was all that happened,
and the writers have no knowledge of any misconduct
on the part of Richard de Betoyne, and are grieved that
stories to his discredit should have been reported by the
Mayor of York. On the contrary they had found the
said Richard always zealous to carry out the wishes of the
City.
As regards news, they report the arrival of the French
envoys, who had not given any answer. The Scottish envoys
were on the way, and the Council was sitting daily to promote
an agreement among the magnates. Letters had come to the
King and Queen, announcing the death of the King of
France. Dated at York, 12 Feb. (F)
Membr. 20 (24)
12 Feb. 1328
Letter from Richard de Betoyne to the same, reporting
that he had done his best to carry out the duty entrusted to
him, but he had been much hurt by the accusations made
against him to the City of London by the Mayor of York.
He had only been in the company of the merchants at York
on one occasion, when they put it to him that he was Mayor
of the Staple (mistrent sur que ieo fu meire de les Estaples) and
wished to have counsel with him, and he had answered that
he did not consider himself their Mayor, and had not come
to counsel them, but that John de Graham (fn. 33) and John Priour
were present, in accordance with the writs, to deal with
the matter of the Staple. The merchants then charged
him by the oath he had taken overseas that he should go
abroad and lay down his mayoralty in the place where he
had received it, together with their charters and muniments,
which had cost them dear. He had replied that he had left
the charters on the other side of the sea with their other
things on his departure thence, except their charter of the
franchises of the Staples, purchased from the late King, which
was in the hands of John de Charleton, who detained it, but
he had had a copy made at Dover in the 18th year of King
Edward, the King's father, when the latter was at that place;
and he offered it to the merchants. He encloses a copy for the
information of the City of London. As a proof of the ill-will
entertained towards him by the men of York, he mentions
that the Mayor of York appeared maliciously and without
warning, with four or five of his livery, and led in his enemy,
John de Charletone, dressed in their livery as a burgess of
York, and with them were a great many of the Commune of
York. As soon as the writer saw him, he told the Mayor
that he would neither sit nor remain in the place where John
de Charleton was, and he rose and went out, for he would
certainly never make peace with the said John without the
consent of the commonalty of London. He had not been in
the company of the merchants since and had no certain
knowledge what answer they made to the King's Council.
Accordingly he prays the City to put aside its anger against
him. Dated at York, 12 Feb.
In a postscript he adds that the Mayor of York and several
other burgesses of York came to his lodging on the eve of
the Purification and accused him of having come to York
only to spy on their fellow-burgess, John de Charletone, in
order to do him harm, all of which he had denied. The
writer considered that this insult (vileynie) was directed not
only against himself but also against the City, whose messenger he was. (F)
20 Feb. 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to Richard de Betoyne, accepting his explanations
and approving his conduct. Dated 20 Feb. (F)
No date
The same to the Mayor and Commonalty of York, certifying that Richard de Betoyne had been found guiltless of
the charges brought against him in their letter, and expressing
astonishment that untrue statements should have been made
under the Common Seal of their town. They are requested
to treat Richard de Betoyne with courtesy as the accredited
representative of the City of London. (F)
24 Feb. 1328
Letter from Stephen (de Gravesend), Bishop of London,
acknowledging receipt of the letter from the Mayor etc., in
which they prayed him to remit the penalty imposed on
Anketin Gisors, Henry and Richard his brothers, James
Beauflour and John de Hynton. Up to the time of writing,
James Beauflour alone had submitted himself to the Bishop,
who had in accordance with the Mayor's wishes dealt
leniently with him, as he promises also to deal with the
others. Dated at Orsete, 24 Feb. (F)
No date
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to Queen Isabella, begging her good offices in the
coming Parliament. (F)
Membr. 20 (24)b
1 March 1328
Writ to the Sheriffs of London, reciting that on the
occasion of the aid for the war in Scotland, permission had
been given for merchants to buy and sell wool, hides and
woolfells both within and outside the Staple towns, and to
export the same from ports where the King's custom-collectors were stationed, until last Christmas, notwithstanding
the Ordinances of the Staple. The King now directs the
Sheriffs to publish his intention of carrying out the ordinances made by the late King, and orders them to ensure that
they are inviolably observed in their bailiwick (fn. 34) . Dated at
York, 1 March Ao 2 Edw. III [1327-8]. (L)
5 March 1328
Writ to the Sheriffs of London for the election of two
members to represent the City in the Parliament to be
held at Northampton three weeks after Easter. Members
are enjoined not to bring a retinue of armed men, as had been
done by divers magnates on previous occasions. Dated at
York, 5 March Ao 2 Edw. III. (L)
11 April 1328
Writ to the Sheriffs of London to see that no injury or
insult be offered to Scottish merchants or others, peace
having been made between the two kingdoms. Dated at
Saunford (fn. 35) , 11 April Ao 2 Edw. III [1328]. (L)
20 April 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to the King, notifying the election of Richard de
Betoyne and Robert de Kelseye to represent the City in the
Parliament at Northampton. Dated 20 April Ao 2 Edw. III
[1328]. (L)
20 April 1328
The same to the same, praying speedy execution of writs
issued in Chancery to give redress to Stephen Aleyn, citizen
of London, against merchants of Hainault, who had robbed
him to the extent of £200 on the sea-coast near "Ravenser
Rode," over against the town of Saltfleteby (fn. 36) . Dated 20
April. (F)
22 April 1328
The same to Geoffrey le Scrope, thanking him for the
assistance he had given the City in the past, and especially
in the matter of Yarmouth. Dated 22 April. (F)
A note to the effect that a similar letter was sent to Sir
Walter de Norwich (fn. 37) , with the exception of the clause relating
to Yarmouth. (L)
Membr. 21 (25)
15 March 1328
Letter from the "Eskevyn" of the town of Calais to the
Mayor etc. of London, acknowledging letters touching the
seizure of the ship "La Blithe" belonging to Adam Hurel
and John Genge, and certifying that no one under their
jurisdiction was concerned in the matter. Dated Tuesday
after Mid-Lent [13 March]. (F)
16 March 1328
A similar letter from the Mayor and Echevins of Whissand.
Dated Wednesday after Mid-Lent [13 March]. (F)
16 March 1327
Letters (fn. 38) patent regulating the trade of the Goldsmiths of
London, pursuant to a petition presented by them to the
Parliament held at Westminster after the Feast of the Purification last. Complaint had been made that merchants,
foreign and native, had been bringing into the country
counterfeit sterling worth only sixteen shillings of true
sterling; that goldsmiths of the City were keeping shop in
obscure lanes, where they bought vessels of gold and silver
without inquiry and melted them down into plate for export,
or made out of them coronals, buckles and rings set with
glass counterfeited to represent stones, and that they put too
much alloy in their silver articles, which they sold to mercers;
and further that the cutlers plated tin with silver, so that the
two could not be separated, and sold this plated tin as silver.
It was now ordained that merchants no longer import false
money, but only fine plate of silver, and that no gold or
silver work or silver plate be sold to merchants for export,
but that all such goods be sold either at the Exchange or in
open shop in the Goldsmith's quarter (orfeverie) in Cheap.
Searchers of work were to be elected to present offenders to
the Mistery. The same ordinances were to apply to all
goldsmiths throughout the country, and every city and town
was required to send representatives to London to obtain
their touch of gold (lour certeyne touche door), and the stamp
(pounceon) of the Leopard's Head, wherewith to mark their
work. Dated at Westminster, 16 March (fn. 39) Ao 1 Edw. III
[1326-7]. (F)
2 May 1328
Letter from the King to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London
with regard to Dominyk Baret, factor of the Lady Isabella
the King's mother, who had been arrested with all his goods
on the charge of purchasing gold and silver plate for exportation. They are ordered to produce him safe and sound
before the King's Council without delay, and with all the
goods and chattels in his possession at the time of his arrest.
Dated at Northampton, 2 May Ao 2 Edw.III [1328]. (F)
4 May 1328
Letter from Queen Isabella to the same on behalf of
"Domynkyn" Baret, her merchant. Dated at Nottingham,
4 May. (F)
28 Jan. 1328
Acquittance from the Mayor, Aldermen and citizens of
London to Henry Darci and John Hauteyn, Sheriffs, for
£43 12s 5d out of the farm and issues of the City of London
and County of Middlesex, in part repayment of £1000 lent
to the late King. Dated 28 Jan. Ao 1 (fn. 40) Edw. III [1326-7].
Note that the acquittance was placed in the coffer with
the Common Seal of the City. (L)
6 May 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty to
the King, praying that justice may be done to Adam Hurel
and John Genge, whose ship "La Blithe" had been seized
and carried into Boulogne harbour, where the cargo was
sold. Dated 6 May. (F)
Membr. 21 (25)b
6 May 1328
The same to the same on behalf of Stephen Aleyn, who
had been robbed by merchants of Hainault, praying that the
writ of arrest against the latter, the execution of which had
been delayed by Hugh le Despenser and Robert de Baldok,
might be renewed and enforced. Dated 6 May. (F)
6 May 1328
A similar letter on behalf of Henry le Palmere and other
citizens, who had been robbed by Flemish merchants to the
value of £518 6s 8d. Dated as above. (F)
7 May 1328
Letter from the same to the King, in reply to one supra,
explaining that Dominyk Baret, on the complaint of the
goldsmiths, had been arraigned in the Husting, and had been
found guilty by a jury of having exported gold and silver
plate contrary to one of the provisions of the recent charter
granted to the Goldsmiths of London. Dated 7 May. (F)
10 May 1328
Letter from the same to the Mayor, Bailiffs and good men
of the town of Henley, with regard to an exaction of toll on
the goods of Walter Neel, Hamo le Barber, John Housebond,
Alan de Tycchewell, Thomas de Chigwell, Gilbert Pavy and
Martin de Chigwell against the liberties of London. Dated
10 May. (F)
14 May 1328
Further letter to the same on the same subject. Dated
14 May. (F)
Membr. 22 (26)
15 June 1328
Writ to the Sheriffs of London for the election of two
members to represent the City at the Parliament to be held
at York on Sunday after the Feast of St James [25 July].
Dated at Worcester, 15 June Ao 2 Edw. III [1328]. (L)
26 July 1328
The Mayor, Sheriffs and Commonalty of London to the
King, certifying the election of Richard de Betoyne, Robert
de Kelseye and James Beauflour—or two of them—to
represent the City in the Parliament at York. Dated 26
July. (L)
1 July 1328
Writ (fn. 41) under the Privy Seal to the Sheriffs of London to
receive the Coronation Stone from the Abbot of Westminster,
and to convey it to the Queen-Mother in whatever part of
the North of England she may happen to be. Dated at
Bordesleye, 1 July Ao 2 Edw. III [1328]. (F)
24 June 1328
Letter from Hugh de Audele (or Daudele) touching wharfage dues exacted at Henley from the ships of Walter Neel and
other citizens of London, and pointing out that as lord of
Henley for the lifetime of his wife (fn. 42) he was entitled to such
dues, which had originally been paid in the time of the Earl
of Cornwall (fn. 43) , and would in course of time pass to the King
with the reversion of the manor, although of late they had
been allowed to lapse. He promises to give further explanations when he comes to London. Dated at Tonbridge, the
Feast of St John the Baptist [24 June]. (F)
4 July 1328
The City's reply to the above, desiring Sir Hugh de
Audele to give orders to his bailiffs to cease exacting toll
until his arrival in London to discuss the matter. Dated
4 July. (F)
4 July 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of
London to Sir William, Count of Hainault, Holland and
Zeeland, and Seigneur of Friesland, on behalf of Stephen
Aleyn, citizen of London, who had sued the Count's subjects
before the late King and his Council for a robbery of £200.
A writ of arrest had been sent to the various sheriffs, as
appears by process made in the Rolls of Chancery, but the
execution of the writs had been delayed, because of the
negotiations between the King and the Count. The Count
is prayed to make restitution to the said Stephen in accordance with the messages (maundementz) ordained by the King
and his Common Council under the Great Seal at the Parliament at Northampton. Dated 4 July. (F)
4 July 1328
The same to the Burgomasters, Echevins and Commonalty
of Bruges, on behalf of Henry le Palmere and other citizens
of London, who had sued the men of the Seignory of the
Count of Flanders before the late King and his Council for
a robbery of £518 6s 8d, as appears by process made in the
Rolls of Chancery. Writs were sent to the Sheriffs to arrest
the goods and chattels of the said merchants, but the execution of the writs had been delayed, because negotiations were
taking place between the King's Council and the Count's
envoys. The latter had returned home without giving satisfaction to the plaintiffs, as appears more fully in the abovementioned process. The writers are sending a copy of the
process by the bearer, and beg that the plaintiffs may receive
their claims, according to the messages ordained by the King
and his Common Council at the last Parliament and sent to
the Count. An answer is requested by the bearer. Dated as
above. (F)
27 July 1328
Letter from the Aldermen, Sheriffs and Commonalty of
the City of London to the King, praying him to assist Hamo
de Chigwell and his colleagues to obtain redress from the
Flemings for a grievous trespass committed in the eighth
year of the reign of Edw. II, with regard to which proceedings
had taken place in Chancery. Dated 27 July. (F)
26 July 1328
Letter from the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty to
Matthew de Bassingbourn, Sheriff of Cambridge, on behalf
of Richard de Welleford and Geoffrey de Weston (fn. 44) , citizens of
London, who had been robbed in the hundred of Stowe in
the county of Cambridge, with regard to which proceedings
had been begun before the Sheriff by a writ of the King.
Dated the morrow of the Feast of St James [25 July]. (F)
Membr. 22 (26)b
25 July 1328
Note that on Monday the Feast of St James [25 July] Ao
2 Edw. III [1328] Henry Russel, Stephen de Coumbe and
Richard le Sealer, of the City of New Sarum, appeared
before the Mayor and Aldermen and claimed to be free from
the payment of murage and pavage in the City of London,
in proof of which they proffered a writ directed to the Mayor
and Sheriffs, and a charter recently acquired. Their claim
was allowed. (L)
12 July 1328
Writ to the Sheriffs of London that they make proclamation in the City for all claims against the Flemings to be laid
before the King and his Council at York on the Feast of
St Peter ad Vincula [1 Aug.], with a view to an understanding between England and Flanders. Dated at Bridgnorth, 12 July Ao 2 Edw. III [1328].
Marginal note that the above was cancelled for the reason
that due notice had not been given to the Flemings. (L)
No date: circa July 1328
Reply of John Hauteyn and Henry Darci, Sheriffs of
London, to the King's writ bidding them receive the Coronation Stone from the Abbot of Westminster and carry it to
the Queen-Mother in the north of England. They report that
the Abbot and Convent refused to give up the Stone until
they had treated of the matter with the King and his
Council. (F)