Property elsewhere (nos. 452–91)

452. Memorandum of the attestations to a quitclaim by Hugh son of Warner of land in Sunbury and Teddington (Mddx.), and of a compensatory grant of three virgates of land by Abbot L[aurence], in fee and inheritance, formerly belonging to Hamund, in Teddington. Hugh restored to the abbot the king's writ concerning his claim, and swore to Alan the dapifer to uphold the agreement. Curia, Westminster [c. 1161 × 1173] (? 1161 × 1162)

Isti fuerint presentes in curia Westmonasterii quando Hugo films Guarnerii clamavit calumpniam suam quietam de tota terra quam calumpniabatur in Sunnebury et in Todington', et Abbas L[aurentius] pro hac quietatione concessit ei in feodo et hereditate tres virgatas terre que fuerunt Hamundi in Todington'. Ita quod ipse H[ugo] reddidit in manu abbatis breve regis super eadem calumpnia et affidavit in manu Alani dapiferi pactionem istam finabiliter tenendam: Baldricus, archidiaconus Legrensis; Hugo, Lexon' (fn. 1) archidiaconus; Alwredus, clericus de Wathamstede; Magister Mauricius; Simon clericus; Gervasius de Cornhull'; Alanus; Radulfus [d]e Septem (fn. 2) Fontibus; Henricus de Cara Movilla; Gralent de Tany; Rogerus filius Willelmi de Wathamstede; Walterus le Har'; Robertus de Bosco; Ailmer de Wandleswrth' et Gilebertus; Robertus (fn. 3) de Derhurst; Gaufridus filius Godefridi: ex parte sua: Paganus et Radulphus de Immurtha; Hugo de Weston'; Hamundus, clericus de Kingeston', et multi alii.

MS: WAD, f. 156.

Rubric: Renunciacio Hugonis filii Guarnerii de calumpnia predicte terre.

Pd: Van Caenegem, 43, n. 1, Isti fuerint … Todington' only, where it is dated 1171 × 1176.

Date: Abbot Laurence d. 10/11 April 1173 (Heads, 77). Baldric de Sigillo, archdeacon of Leicester, first occurs as archdeacon c. 1162/3 4 cm. diameter; eagle facing right; legend: + SIGILL. IOHANNIS FIL. EDWARDI.

Note: Cf. 133. See also Harvey, WA, 354.

453. Notification by William of Northolt, archdeacon of Gloucester, to his friends, French and English, that he has confirmed to his sergeant, Robert Simple, two hides in Cowley (Mddx.) of his inheritance, formerly belonging to William's grandfather, Hugh of Colham, and to his son Richard son of Hugh, to hold in fee and inheritance of William and his heirs, rendering the service due from that land to the abbot and convent of the church of St Peter of Westminster, and rendering to William, and his heirs, in recognition of his right in that land, one besant (2s.) annually. [1177 × May 1186]

Willelmus de Norhall', archidiaconus Gloecestrie, omnibus amicis suis tam Francis quam Anglis, salutem. Notum vobis facio me dedisse et hac presenti carta mea confirmasse Roberto Simplici, servienti meo, pro servitio suo duas hidas terre in Coueleia de hereditate mea, que fuerunt Hugonis de Coleham avi mei, et Ricardi filii eiusdem Hugonis, avunculi mei, in feudo et hereditate, ei et heredibus suis post eum, de me et heredibus meis, tenendas ita libere et quiete et honorifice, in bosco et plano, in viis et semitis, in pratis et pascuis, in aquis et in omnibus aliis locis, sicuti predecessores mei unquam melius et liberius (fn. 4) tenuerunt. Faciendo inde omne servitium quod de eadem terra debetur abbati et conventui ecclesie Beati Petri de Westmonasterio; et preterea persolvet idem Robertus et heredes sui mihi et heredibus meis in recognitionem iuris mei quod habeo in predicta terra, singulis annis unum bisantium infra octabis Sancti Michaelis. His testibus: Hugone de Ov'; David de Jarponvill'; Osberto de Senleia; Rogero de Messendene; Angot' Duredent; Godefrido de Tokinton'; Waltero de Greneford; Rogero de la Dune; Radulfo de Tokinton'; Waltero Duredent; Godefrido de Benchesham; Hamone de Roxeie; Hugone fratre eius; Radulfo de P[re]stune; Godefrido de Prestune; Adam de Greneford'; Jacobo, Ranulfo, Ada de Essexe, Alexandra, Waltero et Ligerio, servientibus meis, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 381.

17.8 × 13.2 cm; t.u. 2.4 cm.

Seal: on plaited cords; black; 5.8 × 3.8 cm; Virgin and Child with kneeling suppliant; legend: + SIGILLUM WILLELMI ARCHIDIACONI GLOEC.

Endorsed: (a) Covele (13C). (b) Carta Willelmi de Norhale, archidiaconi Gloucestrie, Roberto Simplici concessa (13C). (c) Dupplicatur j (13C). (d) Celararia (14C).

(2) WAM 371.

Paper; 16C; 28.5 × 15.4 cm; no seal.

Heading: Carta Willelmi de Norehale, archidiaconi Gloucestrie, de duabus hidis in Covele.

(3) WAD, f. 446. Variant text as WAM 371, but attestations as in the original, apart from … Hugone fratre … Prestune, as in 371. Spellings are as in 371, suggesting that the latter was copied from WAD.

Date: Mr William of Northolt was archdeacon of Gloucester 1177–1186, and was elected bp. of Worcester c. 25 May 1186 (Fasti II, 100).

Note: On Cowley cf. Harvey, WA, 124, 350.

454. Notification by Walter of Greenford that he has confirmed to Robert Simple that he and his heirs may hold in fee and inheritance of Walter's uncle, William of Northolt, those lands which William granted and confirmed to him by charter, comprising two hides in Cowley (Mddx.), formerly belonging to Richard of Cowley, and an assart in Northolt (Mddx.) once held of William of Northolt by Derwin of Roxeth. [1177 × 1186]

Walterus de Greneford' omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presentes littere pervenerint, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me concessisse et presenti carta mea confirmasse Roberto Simplici quod ipse et heredes sui post ipsum teneant in feodo et hereditate de Willelmo de Norhalle, avunculo meo, et heredibus suis post eum terras illas quas prenominatus Willelmus, avunculus meus, ei pro servitio suo dedit, ita libere et quiete et honorifice sicut predictus Willelmus, avunculus meus, ei dedit et carta sua confirmavit, scilicet: duas hidas terre in Coueleya que fuerunt Ricardi de Coueleya, et unum essartum in Norhallia quod aliquando tenuit Derwynus de Roxeheya de supradicto Willelmo de Norhalle, avunculo meo. Hiis testibus: Magistro Ada de Craneford; Magistro Petro de Lecche; Radulfo et Johanne capellanis; Rogero de Messendene; Godefrido de Tokinton'; Ansgoto Duredent; et Augustino Malet; et Radulfo de Tokinton'; et Hamone de Roxheya; Godefrido de Benchesham; et Godefrido de Preston'; et Radulfo de Preston; Roberto de Wambeleya; Ada de Greneford'; Jacobo; Ada Marescallo; Alexandro; Osberto, et aliis multis.

MS: WAD, f. 446.

Rubric: Carta Walteri de Greneforde de eodem.

Date: Issued later than 453 but before William of Northolt had been elected to the bishopric of Worcester in May 1186 (Fasti I, 64; II, 100, 107).

Note: Following a lawsuit brought against him in 1204 by Roger de la Dune and Godfrey son of Ralph, concerning two parts of two hides of land in Cowley, Robert Simple undertook sole responsibility for the service due to the abbot and convent of Westminster, while the plaintiffs would warrant the land against Walter of Greenford (Fines London and Mddx., I, 8, no. 35).

455. Confirmation by Roger of Missenden to Robert Simple and his heirs, that they may hold in fee and inheritance, of his uncle William of Northolt, and his heirs, those lands which William gave him (Roger); comprising two hides of land in Cowley (Mddx.) which belonged to Richard of Cowley, and an assart in Northolt (Mddx.) which Derwin of Roxeth once held of William of Northolt. [1177 × 1186]

Rogerus de Messindene omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presentes littere pervenerint, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me concessisse et presenti carta mea confirmasse Roberto Simplici quod ipse et heredes sui post ipsum teneant in feodo et hereditate de Willelmo de Norhalle avunculo meo, et heredibus suis post eum, terras illas quas prenominatus Willelmus avunculus meus ei pro servitio suo dedit, ita libere et quiete et honorifice sicut predictus Willelmus avunculus meus ei dedit et carta sua confirmavit, scilicet: duas hidas terre in Coueleya que fuerunt Ricardi de Coueleya; et unum essartum in Norhall' quod aliquando tenuit Derwinus de Roxeheya de supradicto Willelmo de Norhall' avunculo meo. Hiis testibus: Magistro Ada de Cranford; Magistro Petro de Lecche; Radulfo et Johanne capellanis; Godefrido de Tokinton'; Ansgoto Duredent; et Augustino Malet; Waltero de Greneford; et Radulfo de Tokinton'; et Hamone de Roxeheie; Godefrido de Benchesham; et Godefrido de Preston'; et Radulfo de Preston'; Roberto de Wambeleye; Ada de Greneford; Jacobo; Ada Marescallo; Alexandro; Osberto, et aliis multis.

MS: WAD, f. 446r–v.

Rubric: Carta Rogeri de Messinden' de eodem.

Date: The attestations suggest this was issued on the same occasion as 454.

456. Confirmation by Earl Aubrey de Vere III to the almonry of Westminster, to sustain the poor, of two parts of his tithe in Kensington (Mddx.) which his forbears formerly gave the almonry. [c. 1191 × 1194]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Comes Alb[ricus] de Uer, pro salute mea, et pro animabus patris et matris mee et antecessorum meorum, concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi Deo et elemosinarie Beati Petri Westmonasterii ad sustentationem pauperum, duas partes totius decimationis de dominico meo in Kensint', quas antecessores mei eidem elemosinarie antiquitus dederunt; tenendas et habendas libere et quiete, sicut umquam temporibus antecessorum meorum predicta elemosinaria melius et liberius illas habuit. His testibus: Willelmo filio Fulconis; Galfrido Grosso; Huberto Manant; Tedbaldo de Fering'; Magistro Helia; Ranulfo Lupo; Willelmo Grosso; Willelmo Talemasche; Eustachio; Willelmo clerico, et pluribus aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 5041.

14.5 × 8. cm; t.u. 1.5 cm.

Tag but seal missing.

Endorsed: (a) Kensiton' (15C) (b) Littera Comitis Oxoniensis de decimis dominicis (15C). (c) In Kensinton' ecclesie Westmonasterii ad sustentacionem pauperum concessis (16C).

(2) WAD, f. 469v.

Date: Attestation of Theobald of Feering, who was seneschal of Westminster temp. Abbot William Postard (309). The grantor must therefore be Aubrey de Vere III, earl of Oxford, 1142 × 1194 (Sanders, p. 52; G.E.C., X, 201–207).

457. Quitclaim by Herbert [le Poer], archdeacon of Canterbury, to the abbot and convent, of land at Staines (Mddx.), called New Court, which his father took from the abbey and treated as his own demesne, and which Herbert himself held of the abbot for 10s. [1191 × 1194]

Herebertus, Dei gratia Cantuariensis archidiaconus, omnibus ad quos presentes littere pervenerint, salutem in Domino. Noverit universitas vestra me reddidisse et inperpetuum omnino clamavisse abbati et conventui Westmonasterii totam terram quietam de Stanes, que dicitur Nova Curia, quam pater meus extraxit et occupavit de proprio dominio abbatis et monachorum Westmonasterii, contra voluntatem et assensum eorum, quam scilicet tenui de predicto abbate et conventu pro decem solidis. Et nunc, quia amplius contra rationem et voluntatem predictorum monachorum terram prefatam et Novam Curiam tenere nolo, eis sicut iustum est supradictam terram et curiam, in pace et cum bona voluntate, etiam voluntarie, pro liberatione anime patris mei, reddo. His testibus: Osberto filio Hervei; Othone filio Willelmi; Magistro Johanne de Brideport; Magistro Thoma de Husburne; Teobaldo senescallo abbatis; Andrea de Scaccario; Albino clerico; Rogero Enganet, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 16737.

19 × 10 cm; t. u. 2 cm.

Seal: on tag; white; 4 × 3 cm; classical figure enthroned (right); attendant offering a cup; trees in background; legend: + SVM CVSTUS … TEST … SIGILLUM.

Endorsed: (a) Quietaclamantia Herberti Cantuariensis archidiaconi de terra in Stanes que dicitur Nova Curia … (13C). (b) et idem Westmonasterio concessit (13C). (c) iiij (13C).

(2) LN, ff. xij verso-xiij. Rubric identifies the donor as Herebertus although text begins Henricus.

(3)CAY, f. xiv: Hereberti, Henrici variation, as in LN.

Cal: Bentley, 6, no. 48, from CAY.

Date: Theobald of Feering was seneschal of Abbot William (309). Herbert le Poer was appointed archdeacon of Canterbury 1175 × 1176 (Fasti II, 14; Ralph de Diceto I, 403), and remained in office until he became bp. of Salisbury in 1194 (Fasti II, 14).

Note: Richard of Ilchester, formerly a senior royal officer, and bp. of Winchester, d. Dec. 1188 (Fasti II, 85). He was prob. the father of Herbert le Poer (C. Duggan, 'Richard of Ilchester, Royal Servant and Bishop', TRHS 5th ser., 14 (1966), 3 and n. 3).

458. Notification by Matthew of Staines, of his confirmation, in pure and perpetual alms, for his soul and those of all his kinsfolk, to St Edward, patron of the church of Westminster, of 6d. rent in in the vill of Staines (Mddx.), from the tenement which Ralph Swift holds of him, lying between the messuage of Elias Scad and that of Milicent. The tenement renders 1s. 6d., of which 6d. is to be paid annually by Ralph to St Edward on the Feast of his Translation (13 Oct.). [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Matheus de Stanes dedi et concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi, pro salute anime mee et omnium parentum meorum, in puram et perpetuam elemosinam Deo et Beato Edwardo, patrono ecclesie Westmonasterii, sex denarios redditus in villa de Stanes de tenemento quod Radulphus Swift tenet de me in eadem villa, scilicet: de uno masuagio cum pertinentiis, quod masuagium est inter masuagium Helie Scad et masuagium Milisent. Percipiendos per manus dicti Radulphi, vel heredum suorum, qui de me tenent et tenere debent per liberum servitium decem et octo denariorum, de quibus predictus Radulphus solvet annuatim Beato Edwardo sex denarios Die Translationis eiusdem. Ut autem hec donatio et concessio rata sit et stabilis permaneat, cum sigilli mei apposicione predictus Radulfus sigillo suo eam corroboravit. Hiis testibus: Johanne filio Johannis de Stanes; Hereberto filio Ricardi le palmer; Willelmo filio Ricardi de Stanes; Elia Scad'; Johanne vinitore; Thoma de Haverhulle; Rogero Blundo; Ate le draper; Roberto de Cantuaria; Petro de Mines; Odone aurifabro de Westmonasterio; Ludovico clerico; Henrico Sumer; Ricardo filio Edmundi; Adam, Gaufrido, Willelmo, servientibus ecclesie, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 136.

Rubric: Carta Mathei de Stanes de vj denariis annui redditus in eadem villa.

(2) LN, f. xv verso.

(3) CAY, f. xvij.

Cal: Bentley, 7, no. 60, from CAY.

Date: Attestations. Thomas of Haverhill was mayor of London 1203–1204 (Reynolds, 'Rulers of London', 356).

Note: See Harvey, WA, 354.

459. Notification by Stephen the parson of Hendon that after the death of Ralph his father, who had held the church of Hendon (Mddx.) for many years by gift of Abbot Laurence and the convent of Westminster, they, as true patrons, presented him to it on payment of an annual pension of two marks (£1. 6s. 8d.) to the abbey sacristy. The right of presentation to Hendon church belongs to the abbot and convent and he, Stephen, had possessed it on the institution of Gilbert, Bp. of London, for 43 years. [1206 × 1216]

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, Stephanus persona de Hendon' salutem in Domino. Ad universitatis vestre noticiam volo pervenire quod, cum Radulfus pater meus ecclesiam de Hendon' ex dono Domini Laurentii abbatis Westmonasterii et eiusdem loci conventus per aliquot annos pacifice possedisset ipsoque decedente prefatam ecclesiam vacare contingerit, predicti abbas et conventus prefatam ecclesiam ut veri patroni mihi karitatis intuitu contulerunt, salva sibi et ecclesie sue annua et debita pensione duarum marcarum ad sacristiam memorate ecclesie pertinencium. Ut autem posteris successuris de iure patronatus dicte ecclesie veritas manifesta elucescat, litteris presentibus et patentibus innotesco quod memoratam ecclesiam de Hendon ex dono et collatione et presentatione predictorum abbatis et conventus, necnon et institutione viri venerabilis Gileberti London' episcopi, per xliij annos in confectione presentis scripti, et me etiam tunc prospere agente pacifice possedi et obtinui. Et ne aliquis in jure prefato contra dicti loci abbatem qui pro tempore fuerit et conventum aliquo tempore aliquid vendicare vel in eorum preiudicium attemptare poterit. Huius rei testimonium confirmans litteris presentibus sigillum meum apposui, et ad plenam veritatis noticiam litteras presentes sigillo meo munitas eidem ecclesie commisi. Valeatis omnes in Domino.

MS: WAD, f. 376v.

Rubric: Scriptum Stephani, persone de Hendon', de pensione duarum marcarum eiusdem ecclesie.

Date: Calculated from the terms of office of Abbot Laurence, c. 1158–1173 (Heads, 77), and Bp. Gilbert Foliot, 1163–1187 (Fasti I, 2), and the duration of Stephen's tenure of the church.

Note: Cf. 211, 213.

460. Confirmation, in pure and perpetual alms, by Matilda de Paris, for her soul and those of her kinsfolk, to St Peter of Westminster and the monks, of the whole land, comprising one and a half hides, which she held in the vill of Harrow (Mddx.), to hold as her father Simon and her grandfather Osmar held it, rendering annually 5s. to the abp. of Canterbury. [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Matilda de Paris, pro salute anime mee et parentum meorum, dedi et concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi Deo et Sancto Petro Westmonasterii et monachis ibidem Deo servientibus totam terram meam quam habui in villa de Herghes, scilicet hidam unam et dimidiam cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, in liberam et perpetuam elemosinam, habendam et tenendam in perpetuum tam libere, honorifice et quiete ut Simon pater meus et Osmarus avus meus umquam melius et liberius eam tenuerunt, in bosco et plano, et prato et pascuis et pasnagio. Reddendo inde annuatim domino archiepiscopo Cantuariensi qui pro tempore fuerit quinque solidos pro omni servitio. Et ut hec mea donatio rata et in[con]cussa permaneat, eam sigilli mei testimonio corroboravi. Hiis testibus: Alexandro presbitero; Ricardo presbitero; Odone aurifabro; Stephano pincerna; Galfrido de Cruce; Rogero Cnokethald; Gervasio Tatyn, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 502v.

Rubric: Carta eiusdem Matilde de eadem.

Date: As for 461.

Note: Cf. 201–2.

461. Notification by Matilda [de Paris], daughter of Simon son of Osmar, that, for her soul and those of her ancestors and successors, she has confirmed, in pure and perpetual alms, to the church of St Peter of Westminster and to the convent, for their clothing, all her land in the vill of Harrow (Mddx.), comprising one and a half hides, to hold in perpetuity, rendering 5s. annually to the abp. [of Canterbury] and his successors. In return, the convent would provide her honourably with all necessities, both in clothing and food. For greater security, she has delivered to the convent those charters of her ancestors which she had concerning that land. [Temp. John (late 1206 × May 1213)]

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, Matillis filia Simonis filii Osmari, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me, caritatis intuitu et pro salute anime mee et omnium antecessorum et successorum meorum, dedisse et concessisse et hac presenti carta confirmasse, in puram et perpetuam elemosinam, Deo et ecclesie Beati Petri Westmonasterii et eiusdem loci conventui, ad vestituram suam, totam terram meam quam habui in villa de Herghes, scilicet unam hidam et dimidiam, cum pertinentiis: habendam et tenendam libere et quiete, integre et plenarie, inperpetuum; reddendo inde singulis annis domino archiepiscopo et eius successoribus pro tempore existentibus, quinque solidos pro omni servitio. Pro hac autem donatione et concessione et carte presentis confirmatione, memoratus conventus omnia necessaria, tam in vestitu quam in victu, mihi honorabiliter ministrabit. Et ut conventus pretaxatus prefatam terram pacifice et honorifice et integre, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, sine aliqua reclamatione vel calumpnia cuiuscumque hominis, habeat, teneat, et possideat, presens scriptum sigilli mei appositione communivi. Et in huius rei warantizatione et firmiori securitate, cartas antecessorum meorum quas habui de prenominata terra, memorato conventui liberavi. Hiis testibus: Ricardo de Dol, tunc senescallo Westmonasterii; Uliano Chesneduit; Johanne filio Willelmi; Odone aurifabro de Westmonasterio; Ludovico clerico; Stephano (clerico)^c de Berking'; Ricardo filio Edmundi; Roberto de Crokesl'; Thoma vinitore; Ada et Johanne servientibus de ecclesia; Gervasio Tatyn; Laurentio Muschat, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 502r–v.

Rubric: Scriptum Matildis filie Simonis filii Osmari de predicta terra.

Date: Attestations. The unnamed abp. is Stephen Langton, in exile from his appointment late in 1206 until May 1213 (Fasti II, 6).

Note: Matilda is clearly identified in the related charter concerning this land which she granted to the abbey (460). The ancestral deeds which she relinquished included 196 and 201–2.

462. Grant by Geoffrey de Mandeville [I] to St Peter and the church of Westminster, for his soul, that of his wife Lesceline, who counselled this benefaction, and for his deceased wife, Alice, the mother of his sons, of the church of St Mary of Hurley, in Berks., with the whole vill of Hurley and the surrounding wood, except for the land of Edric the reeve and that of the rustics of Little Waltham, which he retained. Osmund, bp. of Salisbury, was present at the dedication of the church of Hurley, and confirmed further specified endowments. Geoffrey obtained from W I a confirmation of these endowments, and Abbot Gilbert declared anathema on all who infringed this gift. [1085 × 1086]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Gosfridus de Magnavilla concessi et donavi Deo et Sancto Petro et ecclesie Westmonasterii, pro salute et redemptione anime mee et uxoris mee Leceline, cuius consilio hoc bonum inchoavi, et pro anima Athelaise prime uxoris mee, matris filiorum meorum jam defuncte, ecclesiam Sancte Marie de Hurley a in Barrocscire cum tota predicta villa de Herleya et cum toto circumjacenti nemore, sine partitione aut divisione aliqua, vel alicuius hominis in ipsa parochia aliquid tenentis, excepta terra Aedrici prepositi et excepta terra rusticorum de Parva Waltham, quas retinui in manu mea. Concessi, dico, et firmiter donavi cum toto dominio meo in campis et pratis, silvis, pascuis, molendinis, aquis, piscariis atque piscationibus et omnibus appendiciis suis: id est ecclesiam de Waltham cum una hida terre et dimidia que sibi subjacent, et cum socna capelle de Remenham et cuntis consuetudinibus illi antiquitus debitis. Dedi etiam predicte ecclesie de Herleya ea die qua feci earn dedicari, Osmundo episcopo Saresberiensi presente, terram Aedwardi de Hwatetecumba in dotalicium. Qua die supradictus episcopus, pontificali auctoritate, confirmavit omnes donationes meas quas eidem sancto loco contuli, scilicet: in omnibus maneriis meisque in dominio meo eo tempore erant, tertiam partem decime totius annone mee, et duas partes decime totius pecunie maneriorum meorum, et totam decimam pasnagiorum meorum, et totam decimam caseorum, et totam decimam lini et lane, et totam decimam vinearum mearum, et totam decimam omnium aliarum rerum mearum, de quibus juste et recte debet Deo decima reddi. Insuper itaque in unoquoque manerio dominii mei dedi predicte ecclesie de Herleya unum rusticum qui octo acras habeat, et in parco unam porcariam cum terra porcarii. Hiis etenim addidi adhuc in insula (fn. 5) de Heli unam piscarium que reddit unum millearium et dimidium siccarum anguillarum et unum presentum anguillarum, quadraginta videlicet grosas anguillas, et in villa que Mosa vocatur tria millearia siccorum allecium. Turoldus vero dapifer meus concessit et dextera sua super altare confirmavit, cum oblatione Radulphi filii sui, duas partes decime totius annone sue de Workendona et totam decimam totius pecunie sue et in Berdena totam decimam totius annone et totius pecunie sue. AEdricus quoque prepositus meus totam decimam annone et totius pecunie sue ibidem donavit. Ego vero ad expletionem huius tanti boni et ad sustentationem monachorum in eadem ecclesia Deo servientium, feci a domino meo Rege Willelmo hec omnia confirmari et ab eodem episcopo et Abbate Gileberto Westmonasterii omnes infractores sive diminutores hujus mee elemosine feci excomunicari, ut sit habitatio eorum cum Juda, Domini proditore, et viventes descendant in eterne perditionis Baratrum cum Dathan et Chore, nisi emendaverint digna satisfactione. Contestor autem filios, heredes scilicet, et omnes posteros meos per tremendum Dei judicium ne ipsi faciant aut fieri sinant ullam infractionem huic mee donationi, immo augeant et stabiliant illam, ita ut Deus stabiliat dies et vitam illorum in eterna beatitudine et habeant partem in hac mea elemosina mecum in celesti requie. Testes: (fn. 6) Lecelina uxor ipsius Gosfridi; Willelmus de Magnavilla; Walterus de Magnavilla; Ricardus de Magnavilla; Hugo Mascherel; Harnulf de Greneford; Rodolfus de Hairun; et Turoldus de Workendone; Richerius; Rogerus Blundus, et multi alii.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 159r–v.

Rubric: Carta Goffridi de Magna Villa de ecclesia Sancte Marie de Hurlea cum tota villa et toto nemore circumiacenti et omnibus aliis in carta contentis.

(2) F, 280v–281v.

Pd: Chaplais, 'Original Charters', 105–8.

Date: After the appointment of Gilbert Crispin (Heads, 77), and following the d. of Geoffrey de Mandeville's first wife (cf. 23, 436; Gilbert Crispin, 32), and his remarriage. Geoffrey is believed to have d. c. 1100 (Hollister, 'Mandevilles', 19).

Note: On this text, see Chaplais, 'Original Charters', 98; on the foundation of Hurley, Harvey, WA, 43; Gilbert Crispin, 32–3; Knowles & Hadcock, 54, 68; on Westminster's acquisition of Hurley's possessions, Harvey, WA, 337–8. A forged version of Geoffrey's charter is printed by Chaplais, 'Original Charters', 105–8.

463. Letter of Bartholomew [de Vendôme], abp. of Tours, addressed to Richard [of Dover], abp. of Canterbury, and all prelates; Ranulf [de Glanville] the seneschal, and all justices throughout England. Asked to give evidence in the dispute between Abbot Walter and a certain knight, over the advowson of Ockendon church (Essex), he declares that, at the request of Queen [Eleanor] of the English, the late Abbot Laurence presented him to that church, to which he was inducted. [1175 × Feb. 1184 (? 1180 × 1184)]

Venerabili Domino Ricardo, Dei gratia Cantuariensi archiepiscopo, et universis prelatis, et Domino Ranulfo senescallo, et omnibus justiciis per Angliam constitutis, Bartholomeus, divina clemencia Turonensis ecclesie humilis minister, salutem in vero salutari. Litteras Domini Walteri abbatis de Westmonasterio recepimus, ad nos directas, quatinus cum suborta sit controversia inter eundem abbatem et quendam militem, de patronatu ecclesie de Wochendona, nos qui ad eandem ecclesiam aliquando recepti fuimus super huius rei veritate prout nobis cognita erat testimonium perhiberemus. Nos vero inquisitioni tanti viri satagere et ad sapiendam controversiam quod super hoc verum novimus in medium proferre volentes vos decetero super hoc nolumus dubitare. Notum sit igitur discretioni vestre quod, ad preces domine regine Anglorum, Laurentius, vir laudabilis memorie, quondam abbas de Westmonasterio, prefatam ecclesiam de Wokendona, omni contradictione cessante, nobis dedit et concessit, et ad eius presentationem ad eandem ecclesiam recepti fuimus, super quo vos nostro credere testimonio quantum expediens fuerit postulamus. Valete.

MS: WAD, f. 506.

Rubric: Littera Bartholomei Turonensis episcopi testimonialis super jure patronatus ecclesie de Wokindon'.

Date: Terms of office of Abp. Richard and Abbot Walter (Fasti II, 5; Heads, 77), but Ranulph the seneschal is almost certainly the justiciar Glanville. The earliest date would then be 1179, but more prob. 1180, when Glanville was regent (West, Justiciarship, 55–6).

Note: Cf. 198, 211, 213.

464. Notification by William de Mandeville, earl of Essex, to his men and his friends, French and English, that he has confirmed to Geoffrey Fitz Walter the whole of Roding (Essex), to hold in fee and inheritance by the service of the fee of one knight, as the charter of Earl Geoffrey his brother bears witness, to hold as Aubrey de Vere, William's grandfather, or Earl Geoffrey his father held it. [1166 × 1189]

Willelmus de Mandavilla, comes de Essex', omnibus hominibus suis et amicis, Francis, Anglis, clericis, laicis, futuris et presentibus, salutem. Sciatis universi me donasse et concessisse et hac carta mea presenti confirmasse Galfrido filio Walteri totam Roinges: tenendam sibi et heredibus suis de me et heredibus meis in feodo et hereditate, per servicium feodi unius militis, sicut carta Comitis Galfridi fratris mei illi testatur. Quare volo et firmiter concedo quod illam terram habeat et teneat, libere, quiete, integre et honorifice, cum omnibus libertatibus et liberis consuetudinibus illi tenemento pertinentibus, in bosco et plano, in pratis et pascuis, in semitis et viis et aquis et omnibus locis, sicut unquam Albericus de Ver avus meus, vel comes Galfridus pater meus, vel aliquis alius antecessorum meorum illam terram melius vel plenius vel quietius vel honorificencius aliquo tempore tenuit, per prenominatum servicium. His testibus: Comite Alberico; Radulfo de Berineres; Ricardo de Rocella; Johanne de Rocella; Savale de Osenwilla'; David de Gerpunvilla'; Osberto filio Ricardi; Viscardo Laidet; Gilleberto de Ver; Ricardo de Levini; Asculfo capellano; Radulfo de Setfuntaines; Willelmo de Gramavilla; Waltero camerario; Alexandro clerico, et multis aliis.

MS: WAM 1231.

17.4 × 15.5 cm; t.u. 2.6 cm.

Seal: on tag; white; 7.7 cm diameter; earl on horseback, facing right, brandishing a sword (worn).

Endorsed: Willelmus de Mandavilla Waltero filio Galfridi (sic) totam Rodiynges (13C).

Date: William's tenure of the earldom (G.E.C. V, 116–19).

Note: Geoffrey de Mandeville I held six estates in Roading in 1086, although the various Rodings were not differentiated then (DB II, 57b, 60b–62a). The carta of Geoffrey earl of Essex does not list Geoffrey Fitz Walter among the tenants of the earldom in 1166, although Geoffrey Gernet then held one fee of old enfeoffment, and Geoffrey de Jarpenville held one of new enfeoffment (Liber Niger Scaccarii, 229; RBE, I, 346). The tithes of (White) Roding, which pertained to the precentor's office, were confirmed to the abbey by Gilbert Foliot, bp. of London (211).

465. Notification by Geoffrey, count of Perche, that, with the assent of his wife Matilda, he has confirmed the gift which Sweyn of Essex, grandfather of Henry of Essex, made to St Peter and the abbot and convent of Westminster, comprising an annual rent of £3 in the vill of Wheatley (Essex), payable by his bailiffs, which the convent are to hold as honourably as they ever did. [1191 × 1202]

Sciant tarn presentes quam futuri quod ego Gaufridus, Dei gratia comes de Pertico, divine pietatis intuitu, concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi, consensu Matildis uxoris mee, donationem illam quam Swanus de Essexa, avus videlicet Henrici de Essex', dedit et concessit Deo et Sancto Petro et abbati et conventui Westmonasterii, videlicet sexaginta solidatas redditus in villa de Wateleya finabiliter, singulis annis percipiendas a baillivis meis, qui pro tempore fuerint, Dominica scilicet in Ramis Palmarum ad mandatum pauperum faciendum proxima die Jovis. Volo autem et firmiter precipio quatinus prefatus conventus Westmonasterii libere et quiete et honorifice prefatum redditum habeant, sicut unquam alicuius tempore melius et liberius habuerunt. Precor vero et obtestor omnes successores meos ne ipsi ullam infractionem huic mee concessioni faciant vel fieri permittant. Ut autem hec mea concessio futuris temporibus stabilis et rata permaneat earn presentis scripti testimonio et sigilli mei attestatione roboravi. Hiis testibus: Hugone de Taber', senescallo meo; Ricardo filio Willelmi; Johanne de Rokesford; Rogero de Longo Ponte; Odone de Lormar'; Hugone de Polestede; Hugone filio eiusdem; Johanne del Fliet; Laurentio de Pakelesham; Johanne de Perdiz, et pluribus aliis.

MS: WAD, ff. 496v–497.

Rubric: Carta Gaufridi comitis de Pertico de sexaginta solidatis redditus in villa de Wateleya.

Pd: Gilbert Crispin, 50 (extracts).

Date: Tenure of title of Geoffrey III, count of Perche, 1191 × ante 1202 (V. de Saint-Allais, l' Art de Vérifier les Dates des Faits historiques, des Chartes, des Chroniques, et autres ancients Monuments, XIII (Paris, 1818), 180–181).

Note: The lands of Henry of Essex escheated to H II in 1163 (Sanders, 121, 139). The king's daughter Matilda, wife of Henry the Lion, duke of Saxony and Bavaria, had a daughter, another Matilda, who married the future Count Geoffrey in 1189 (Saint-Allais, ibid.). As her marriage portion, the younger Matilda conveyed to the count of Perche part, at least, of the lands formerly held by Henry of Essex (Sanders, 121).

466. Notification by Celestria, former wife of Daniel de Aqua of Aldenham, that, with the consent of Thomas her son, she has quitclaimed to Thomas de Camera a messuage and five acres in Aldenham (Herts.). She and her son have abjured this land before the court of Westminster [Abbey] and Thomas de Camera has given them £3. 5s. [c. 1200 × ante 1214]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Celestria que fui uxor Danielis de Aqua de Aldeham, assensu et uoluntate Thome filii mei, concessi et quiete clamavi de me et heredibus meis sine omni retenemento Thome de Camera et heredibus suis unum mesagium et quinque acras terre cum pertinentiis in Aldeham, scilicet: tres acras que iacent ante portam predicti mesagii et duas acras que jacent a latere predicti mesagii, et totum ius et clamium quod habui in predicta terra: habendum et tenendum ipsi Thome et heredibus suis bene et in pace, libere et quiete, integre et plenarie inperpetuum, sine omni retenemento vel calumpnia de me vel heredibus meis, et sine omni servitio reddendo quod pertineat ad me vel heredes meos. Ego autem totam predictam terram coram tota curia Westmonasterii abjuravi cum Thoma filio meo. Pro hac autem concessione et quieta clamantia inperpetuum predictus Thomas dedit mihi et Thome filio meo sexaginta et quinque solidos esterlingorum. Et ut hec concessio et quieta clamantia rata et stabilis permaneat eam sigilli mei appositione corroboravi. Hiis testibus: Ricardo de Dol, tunc senescallo Westmonasterii; Gaufrido Picot; Alexandro capellano de Aldeham; Waltero de Grenef; Odone aurifabro de Westmonasterio; Gaufrido camerario; Roberto de Krokel'; Waltero Marescallo; Bartholomeo hostiario; Roberto de Bosco de Aldeham; Phylippo de Camera; Ada de Bosco; Radulfo clerico, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 4461.

18.6 × 11cm; t.u. 1.4 cm.

Seal: on long green cords; red; 4.8 × 3.3 cm; fleur de lys; legend: + SIGILL … UXOR DANIELIS.

Endorsements: (a) Quieta clamantia Celestrine que fuit uxor Danielis de Aqua de Aldenham facta Thome de Camera de uno mesuagio et V acris terre in Aldenham (14C). (b) xvij (14C).

(2) WAD, ff. 187v–188.

Date: Attestation of Richard de Dol as seneschal.

Note: This deed is in the same hand and the same words as 467 (apart from two necessary changes of name). On Aldenham, cf. Harvey, WA, 345.

467. Notification by Thomas son of Daniel de Aqua of Aldenham that, with the consent of Celestria his mother, he has quitclaimed to Thomas de Camera a messuage and five acres in Aldenham (Herts.). He and his mother have abjured this land before the court of Westminster [Abbey] and Thomas de Camera has given them £3. 5s. [c. 1200 × ante 1214]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Thomas filius Danielis de Aqua de Aldeham, assensu et uoluntate Celestrie matris mee, concessi et quiete clamavi de me et heredibus meis, sine omni retenemento, Thome de Camera et heredibus suis unum mesagium et quinque acras terre cum pertinentiis in Aldeham, scilicet: tres acras que iacent ante portam predicti mesagii et duas acras que iacent a latere predicti mesagii, et totum ius et clamium quod habui in predicta terra; habendum et tenendum ipsi Thome et heredibus suis bene et quiete et libere et in pace, integre et plenarie, in perpetuum, sine omni retenemento vel calumpnia de me vel heredibus meis, et sine omni servitio reddendo quod pertineat ad me vel heredes meos. Ego autem totam predictam terram coram tota curia Westmonasterii abiuravi cum Celestria matre mea. Pro hac autem concessione et quieta clamantia inperpetuum predictus Thomas dedit mihi et Celestrie matri mee sexaginta et quinque solidos esterlingorum. Et ut hec concessio et quieta clamantia rata sit et stabilis permaneat eam sigilli mei appositione corroboravi. Hiis testibus: Ricardo de Dol, tunc senescallo Westmonasterii; Gaufrido Picot; Alexandro capellano de Aldeham; Walter de Grenef; Odone aurifabro Westmonasterii; Gaufrido Cam'; Roberto de Krokel'; Waltero Marescallo; Bartholomeo hostiario; Roberto de Bosco de Aldeham; Phylippo de Camera; Ada de Bosco; Radulfo clerico, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 4460.

18.4 × 9.6cm; t.u. 1.4cm.

Cord: pink and green; seal missing.

Endorsements: (a) Quieta clamantia Thome filii Danielis de Aqua de Aldenham de uno mesuagio et v acris terre Thome de Camera concessis (14C). (b) xiiij (14C).

(2) WAD, f. 188.

Date: As 466.

Note: Cf. Harvey, WA, 345.

468. Confirmation by Nicholas [de Sigillo], archdeacon of Huntingdon, of the perpetual vicarage of the church of Datchworth (Herts.) to Elias the clerk at the request of Abbot Laurence of Westminster and of Richard [of Ilchester], archdeacon of Poitiers, rector of that church. Elias is to pay two aurei a year to Richard and if Richard leaves the said church or dies Elias is to pay the two aurei to the abbey. No more is ever to be asked of him. [c. 1164 × Dec. 1166]

Nicholaus Huntend' archidiaconus omnibus ad quos littere presentes pervenerint, salutem. Dilecto clerico nostro Elie utiliter in posterum providere cupientes venerabilium amicorum nostrorum Laurentii abbatis Westmonasterii et Domini Ricardi Pictaviensis archidiaconi petitione, perpetuam ecclesiam de Dachwrth vicariam in perpetuam elemosinam ei concedimus et presentis scripti testimonio confirmamus; ita scilicet quod predictus Elyas ecclesiam illam possideat cum omnibus pertinentiis suis et cum omni integritate fructuum, et reddet annuatim predicto Ricardo Pictaviensi archidiacono, qui eiusdem ecclesie persona constitutus est, duos aureos tantum; si vero Ricardus Pictaviensis archidiaconus eidem ecclesie cesserit vel decesserit prescripto tenore et conditione idem Elias ecclesie Westmonasterii annuatim reddet illos duos aureos et ecclesiam illam habebit, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis et cum omni illa fructuum integritate quam prius eam possidebat, et ita quod ab eo quamdiu vixerit nichil preter hos duos aureos de jure exigi possit. Hec itaque conventio, scripto et sigillo abbatis et conventus Westmonasterii confirmata est. Hiis testibus: Willelmo filio Martini; Magistro Jordano; Magistro Hugone; et Thoma, clerico et tornato, et Radulfo, clerico Exonensi.

MS: WAD, f. 380v.

Rubric: Scriptum Nicholai archidiaconi Huntingdon' super redditum duorum aureorum de ecclesia de Dachwurth.

Date: As for 222, which is related.

Note: In 222, the pension is of two besants. The term aureus (a gold coin) was frequently used to denote the besant (R. E. Latham, Revised Medieval Latin Word List (1965), 38. See also H Med Exch., 294–5).

469. Writ of William d'Aubigny the Breton ordering his officers in Sawbridgeworth (Herts.) not to harass the monks serving the church there. Any plea concerning them is to be heard in his court. [c. (Nov. 1120 x) 1130]

Willelmus de Alb [ini] Br [ito] omnibus ministris suis et hominibus Francis et Anglis de Sebriht', salutem. Sciatis quod ecclesia de Sabriht' et omnia ad eam pertinentia sunt in manu mea, et ideo volo ut monachi qui ibidem Deo serviunt et omnia sua sint in pace, et nullus eis iniuriam vel torturam faciat. Et si quid ortum fuerit de eis unde calumniari vel implacitari debeant, volo ut remaneat donec coram me querela fiat. Et de monachis et de hominibus eorum, et de decimis et de aliis rectitudinibus que iuste ecclesie facere debetis, volo ut faciatis nec aliquid remaneat. Sic me diligitis et ut pro vobis faciam et grates sciam. Valete.

MS: WAM 8580.

16.7 × 4.1 cm.

Tongue, with pink silk bag; seal missing.

Endorsed: Sebrichieswrth (13C).

Date: This church was granted to Westminster by Henry I, c. Nov. 1120 × 1127, following the death of Otwel Fitz Count (86). William d'Aubigny the Breton accounted for the lands of Otwel Fitz Count in 1130 (PR 31 Henry I, 133–4).

Note: It should be noted that the monks of Westminster undertook some pastoral duties in the earlier part of the twelfth century (cf. Marjorie Chibnall, 'Monks and pastoral work: a problem in Anglo-Norman history', Jnl. of Ecclesiastical History, 18 (1967), 165–72, and Brett, English Church, 221).

470. Confirmation by William [de Mandeville] earl of Essex, in perpetual and free alms, for his soul, for that of H II, and those of his parents and ancestors, to the church of St Peter of Westminster, of the church of Sawbridgeworth (Herts.) to the abbey. [1166 × 1189]

Willelmus comes Essexie omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me concessisse et hac presenti carta mea confirmasse ecclesie Sancti Petri Westmonasterii ecclesiam de Sabrihceswrthe cum omnibus pertinentiis suis in perpetuam et liberam elemosinam, pro salute mea et domini mei Regis Henrici, et pro animabus patris et matris mee et antecessorum meorum. Quare volo et firmiter precipio ut teneant eas bene, quiete, libere et honorifice, sicut unquam melius, quietius et liberius tenuerunt temporibus antecessorum meorum. Hiis testibus: Willelmo de Ver; Asculfo capellano; Ricardo de Vercoroli; Willelmo de Lisoris; David de Jarpovilla; Symone fratre eius; Osberto filio Ricardi; Osberto de Sancto Claro; Willelmo de Norhala; Johanne de Rochella; Eustachio camerario; Rogero et Symone, clericis abbatis Westmonasterii.

MSS: (1)BL Cotton Charter X.I.

16.3 × 10.2 cm; t.u. 2 cm.

Seal: on tag; yellow; 8.2 cm diameter; earl on horseback, facing right, right arm raised brandishing sword; legend: SI … MI … OM … E ESSE … (see Cat. Seals BM II, 318, no. 6200).

Endorsed: (a) Illegible, on fold: swea. (b) Carta W. comitis Essex' de ecclesia de Sabricheswrth concessa e. (stained). (c) iii.

(2) F, f. 287 (attestations end with Asculf capellanus).

Pd: J. H. Round, Geoffrey de Mandeville (New York, 1892), 231 n. 3 (witnesses only).

Date: The witness William de Norhala is prob. William of Northolt whose name recurs in the Westminster charters (e.g. 453–5). He was elected bp. of Worcester c. 25 May 1186 (Fasti II, 100), having been a prebendary of London, and archdeacon of Gloucester 1177–1186 (Fasti I, 64; II, 107). His attestation without any title would suggest a date ante 1177.

Note: This church, which prev. pertained to the honour of Otwel Fitz Count, was granted to the abbey by King Henry I (86) on the advice of Richard de Belmeis I, bp. of London (203). Otwel or Othuer (d. Nov. 1120) was the second husband of Margaret de Ria, who had prev. married William de Mandeville I (Hollister, 'Mandevilles', 21, 26), the grandfather of Earl William. Pope Alexander III confirmed the church, prob. in 1161 (170). Bp. Gilbert Foliot also confirmed this church, pertaining to the sacrist's office, with a pension of £15 (211).

471. Grant by Alan de Hull to Beatrice daughter of Iseult, daughter of Gilbert of Stevenage, of two acres in the fields of Stevenage (Herts.), to hold in inheritance, at an annual rent of 6d.; gersum of 18s. [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Alanus de Hulla dedi, concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi Beatricie filie Ysoude, filie Gilberti de Stythenach', pro homagio et servitio suo, duas acras terre mee in campis de Stithenache: illas scilicet duas acras que abuttant super pratum domini abbatis de Westmonasterio juxta dumum ex parte austr[al]i, et vocantur Gosiacre, integre in longitudine et latitudine sicut jacent. Tenendas et habendas de me et heredibus meis, sibi et heredibus suis, vel cui dare vel assignare voluerit, libere et quiete et hereditarie. Reddendo inde annuatim mini et heredibus meis vj denarios ad quatuor terminos, scilicet: ad Festum Sancti Andree iij obulos; ad Annunciationem Beate Marie iij obulos; ad Festum Sancti Johannis Baptiste iij obulos; et ad Festum Sancti Michaelis iij obulos, pro omni servitio, consuetudine et exactione. Pro hac autem donatione et carte confirmatione dedit mihi predicta Beatricia xviij solidos in gersummam. Et ego Alanus de la Hulla et heredes mei warantizabimus etc. Hiis testibus etc.

MS: F, f. 284v.

Date: Earlier than 473.

Note: There follow in F, on this folio, brief memoranda of the following:

(1) Grant by Alan de Hull to Robert Fitz Iseult of two acres which the prior of Wymondley later had.

(2) Grant of half a virgate to W. de Hairum in Stevenage.

Grant by Alan de Hull to the prior of Wymondley.

(4) Agreement between the abbot and convent of Westminster and Osbert le palmer of Stevenage.

And at the top off. 285:

(5) Brief memorandum of a grant by Henry, heir of Alan de Hull, of land which Thomas de Mapaz had. This item possibly represents a confirmation to the abbey of the lands which Alan had granted to Thomas son of Gilbert of Mappershall, and which were later granted by Alan to the Abbey (472–3).

472. Confirmation by Alan de Hull to Thomas son of Gilbert of Mappershall of the messuage formerly held by his mother Christine; a garden; one croft with a rent of 1s. 5d.; ten acres; a little grove and another croft (Stevenage, Herts.). [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Alanus de Hulle dedi, concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi Thome filio Gileberti de Maperteshale, pro homagio et servitio suo, totum illud mesuagium quod Christiana mater mea tenuit de feodo meo in Stithenach'; et gardinum cum omnibus suis pertinentiis, sicut fossatum circuit; et croftam similiter cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, que jacet inter predictum mesuagium et domum Ingoldi filii Rogeri; et redditum septemdecim denariorum cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, quem mihi idem Ingoldus reddidit annuatim; et duas acras juxta viam ecclesie que abutant in Livdane; et illas duas acras cum pertinentiis suis que abutant super brueram, et vocantur Longe Acre; et sex acras in cultura que est inter Cureswell' et Slittemere; et totam parvam gravam cum pertinentiis, que est ante portam meam, que vocatur Rodingge; et totam illam croftam que vocatur Songerescroft, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, scilicet de divisa que tendit versus predictam gravam apud austrum. Habendum et tenendum de me et de heredibus meis sibi et heredibus suis, vel cuicumque iamdictum tenementum cum prefato redditu assignare voluerit, libere et quiete et hereditarie. Reddendo inde annuatim mihi vel heredibus meis duodecim denarios ad duos terminos anni, scilicet: ad Pascha sex denarios, et ad Festum Sancti Michaelis sex denarios, pro omni servitio et exactione et consuetudine, salvo tamen modo servicio domini regis, quantum pertinet ad tantum tenementum eiusdem feodi in villa de Stithenach'. Pro hac etiam donatione et confirmatione, dedit mihi predictus Thomas decem marcas argenti in gersumam. Et ego predictus Alanus de la Hulle et heredes mei warantizabimus predicto Thome filio Gileberti et heredibus suis, vel cuicumque assignare voluerit, totam prenominatam terram cum pertinentiis suis, et cum predicto redditu contra omnes homines et omnes feminas. Et ut carta ista firma sit et stabilis, sigillo meo corroboravi. Hiis testibus: Domino Johanne de Meperteshale; Domino Petro de Well'; Henrico filio Gileberti; Deodato de Pullehangre; Roberto Taylepast; Galfrido de Pullehangre; Hugone de la Mote; Nicholao filio Rogeri; Jordano filio Albrici; Osberto palmero; Nicholao Hachel'; Henrico de Brant'; Thoma fratre eius; Amaurico de Boxe; Helia de Stent'; Roberto filio eius; Galfrido de Mand'; Deodato le Charpenter; Ada de Pettesho, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 215.

Rubric: Carta Alani de la Hulle de uno mesuagio in Stithenach' cum gardino et una crofta, et de redditu septemdecim denariorum cum suis pertinenciis.

Date: Earlier than 473.

473. Confirmation, in pure and perpetual alms, by Alan de Hull, for the souls of his ancestors and successors, to the church of St Peter of Westminster and the monks, of the messuage which his mother Christine held of his fee in Stevenage (Herts.), with a garden; a croft; a rent of 1s. 5d.; and a total of ten acres; a little grove and a croft, to hold at an annual rent of 10d. [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Alanus de Hulla dedi, concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi ecclesie Sancti Petri de Westmonasterio et monachis ibidem Deo servientibus, pro animabus antecessorum et successorum meorum, in puram et perpetuam elemosinam totum illud messagium quod Cristina mater mea tenuit de feodo meo in Stithenache cum pertinentiis suis; et gardinum cum suis pertinentiis, sicut fossatum circuit; et croftam similiter cum suis pertinentiis, que jacet inter predictum messagium et domum Ingoldi filii Rogeri, et redditum decem et septem denariorum quos ab eodem Ingoldo recipere consuevi; et duas acras juxta viam ecclesie que se habotant in Linden', cum suis pertinentiis. et illas duas acras cum suis pertinentiis que se habotant super Brueriam, et vocantur Longe Acre; et sex acras in cultura que est inter Cureswell et Flittemere cum suis pertinentiis; et totam parvam gravam que jacet ante portam meam, et vocatur Ruddinge, cum suis pertinenciis; et totam illam croftam que vocatur Sangerescroft, scilicet de diversa que se extendit versus predictam gravam versus austrum, cum suis pertinenciis. Habenda et tenenda predictis monachis inperpetuum, libere et quiete, reddendo inde annuatim michi et heredibus meis duodecim denarios per manum Ingoldi prenominati et heredum suorum, scilicet: ad Festum Annunciationis Beate Marie sex denarios et ad Festum Sancti Michaelis sex denarios pro omni servicio et seculari demanda. Ego vero Alanus et heredes mei warantizabimus predictis monachis totum predictum tenementum cum suis pertinentiis contra omnes homines et feminas. Ut autem hec donatio et concessio rata et stabilis perpetuo permaneat, presens scriptum sigillo meo roboravi. Hiis testibus: Ricardo de Doll, tunc senescallo de Westmonasterio; Yvone de Hamleg'; Johanne de Stanes; Nicholao filio Avice; Nicholao Bacheler; Johanne de Brokesburene; Johanne Butillir'; Helia de Niweton; Gwidone serviente, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 215r–v.

Rubric: Carta eiusdem Alani de predictis messuagiis, gardino et una crofta et de redditu predicto cum pertinenciis in Stithenache.

(2) F, f. 283v–284 (attestations end with Ivo de Hamleg').

474. Grant by Robert Fitz Ralph of Watton, to his wife Katherine, of half the vill of Watton (Herts.) in dower. [(1141 × 1142) × 1158]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Rodbertus de Wattuna, filius Radulfi de Wattuna, concessi et donavi Katerine sponse mee medietatem tocius ville mee de Wattuna in dotalicium et hac karta (fn. 7) mea confirmavi, cum omnibus pertinentiis suis et redditibus et libertatibus: in bosco; in plano; in agro; in pratis; in pascuis; in aquis; in rivis; in viis; in semitis, et in omnibus locis, absque ullo retenemento, sicut ego vel pater meus eam liberius et magis quiete et pacifice ullo tempore possedit et habuit. Testibus his: Petro de Valoniis; Rodberto de Val'; Ricardo de Chaune; Radulfo de Lattune; Waltero de Nevile; Radulfo de Huvile; Willelmo de Bosco; Andrea (fn. 8) Revel; Philippo Revel; Reginaldo de Thanet; Ricardo capellano; Wigero preposito; Henrico preposito, et multis aliis.

MS: WAM 4737.

19 × 6.8 cm; t.u. 2.2 cm; tag; seal missing.

Endorsed: (a) Carta Roberti de Wattune (13C). (b) 119 (modern).

Date: Hand is mid-12C. Peter de Valognes succeeded as lord of Bennington, Herts., 1141 × 1142, and d. 1158, when he was succeeded by his brother Robert (Sanders, 12).

Note: In 1166, Robert Fitz Ralph held one fee of old enfeoffment of Robert de Valognes (Liber Niger Scaccarii, 245; RBE I, 361). The attestations of Peter and Robert de Valognes to this charter indicate that Robert Fitz Ralph's land was the manor of Woodhall in Watton, which in turn was held of the Valognes fee (VCH Herts., III, 161). Katherine's dower was presumably later acquired by Westminster, and augmented the abbey's demesne land in Watton (cf. Harvey, WA, 346).

475. Notification by Hugh de Euremou to his lord, Bp. R[obert Bloet] and the barons of Lincs., that he has restored to St Peter of Westminster the manor of Doddington (Lincs.), since King [Henry I] took the manor which Hugh gave to St Peter [in exchange] for it, and restored it to Count Eustace. [? 1102 × 1103]

Domino Suo Episcopo R[oberto] et baronibus [de] Lincolnscira, Hugo de Euremou, salutem. Sciatis me reddidisse Sancto Petro Westmonasterii manerium de Dotinton'; quia manerium quod pro illo dederam Sancto Petro rex a me accepti, et Comiti Eustachio reddidit, nec volo ut causa mei Ecclesia Dei ullo modo dampnum habeat.

MS: WAD; f. 501.

Rubric: Carta Hugonis de Euremou de manerio predicto.

Marginalia: Ista carta debuit precedere cartam Willelmi regis ad istud signum (f. 500v, in margin of 31).

Pd: Gilbert Crispin, 144, no. 25.

Date: Cf. 61.

Note: The exchanged manor was Duxford, Cambs.: 61.

476. Notification by Geoffrey Fitz Peter, earl of Essex, that Abbot Ralph and the convent of Westminster have, at the earl's petition, confirmed to the nuns of Shouldham, and their brethren, all tithes pertaining to them in Clakelose Hundred (Norf.), in return for £1. 10s. due annually to the almoner of Westminster. [1200 × 1213]

Galfridus films Petri, comes Essex', omnibus ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra Dominum R[adulphum] abbatem de Westmonasterio et eiusdem loci conventum ad petitionem nostram concessisse et carta sua confirmasse sanctimonialibus de Suldham et fratribus earum omnes decimas que ad eos pertinent in Clakelose hundredo, tenendas de eis inperpetuum, solvendo annuatim elemosinario Westmonasterii triginta solidos ad duos terminos, videlicet: infra octabas Pasche xv solidos, et infra octabas Sancti Michaelis xv solidos. Hoc autem eis concesserunt predictus abbas et conventus quamdiu erga ecclesiam Westmonasterii predicte moniales legittime se habuerint et bene reddiderint predictos xxx solidos. Testibus hiis: Galfrido de Bocl'; Ricardo de Heriet'; Ricardo de Dol; Jordano Peverel; Radulfo aurifabro; Ricardo ianitore; Bartholomeo pincerna; Roberto de Croch'; Jacobo hostiario, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM, 1717^*.

19.3 × 6.8 cm; t.u. 2cm.

Seal: on tag; 6.8 cm diameter; brown; obverse: earl on horseback, brandishing a sword; SI[GILLUM GAUFRIDI CONURUS EXIE +.

Counterseal: 3.2 cm diameter; six-petalled flower (worn); legend: … IL … ETRI …

Endorsed: (a) Littera comitis Essex' pro xxx solidis de Schuldham' (14C). (b) solvendis ecclesie Westmonasterii pro decimis in Clakelose hundredo elemosinarie (14C).

(2) WAD, f. 469v.

Date: Abbot Ralph succeeded in 1200 and Earl Geoffrey d. in 1213.

Note: Shouldham (Norf.) was a Gilbertine house founded by Geoffrey Fitz Peter in the reign of Richard I (Knowles & Hadcock, 194, 196).

These tithes are not listed in the detailed confirmations of Pope Adrian IV, nor in subsequent confirmations. They were perhaps granted to Westminster by one of Geoffrey Fitz Peter's tenurial predecessors, such as William de Mandeville II, but any charter was prob. surrendered when Westminster confirmed Geoffrey Fitz Peter's donation to Shouldham.

477. Acknowledgement by the nuns and brethren of Shouldham that they have received from Abbot Ralph and the convent of Westminster all tithes which pertained to them in Clakelose Hundred (Norf.), to hold in perpetuity at an annual rent of £1. 10s. due to the almoner. [1200 × 1213]

Omnibus ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, sanctimoniales de Suldha[m] et fratres earum salutem in Domino. Noverit universitas vestra nos accepisse a Domino Abbate Radulfo et conventu Westmusterii omnes decimas que ad eos pertinent in Clakelose hundredo tenendas de eis inperpetuum. Reddendo annuatim elemosinario Westmusterii xxx solidos ad duos terminos, videlicet: infra octabas Pasche xv solidos, et infra octabas Sancti Michaelis xv solidos. Hoc autem nobis concesserunt predictus abbas et conventus Westmusterii quamdiu nos habuerimus legittime erga predictam ecclesiam Westmusterii et bene reddiderimus. Hiis testibus: Gaufrido filio Petri, comite Essex'; Gaufrido de Bocland; Rogero de Crampesham'; Rogero de Stradessete; Petro de Bekeswelle; Ricardo de Dol; Jurdano Peverel; Ricardo Testard; Johanne Testard; Alano Herun; Roberto de Crokesl'; Jacobo hostiario, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 1718.

17.4 × 8.2 cm; seal and tag torn off.

Endorsed: (a) Mon[iales] de Suldham de annuo redditu xxx solidis pro decimis (13C) (b) in Clackelose hundredo etc Westmonasterio solvendis (14C). (c) Elemosinarius (14C).

(2) WAD, ff. 469v–470.

Date: Geoffrey Fitz Peter as earl of Essex.

Note: The absence of any mention of the head of house may indicate that this document was issued during a vacancy. Prior J. was in office 1197 × 1199, perhaps to be identified with Jocelin, in office 1203–4 (Heads, 205).

478. Notification by Richard Fitz William to the English and French men of his fee that he confirms to the almonry of the church of St Peter of Westminster two-thirds of the tithes of his fee of Buchetuna [? Buckton, Heref.] which it holds of Richard by hereditary right of the realm, both from the demesne and the villein land, in everything which may be tithed, as the abbey held it by the gift of Richard's father William. [mid 12C]

Notum sit omnibus tam presentibus quam futuris, tam Anglis quam Francis, totius feudi mei quod ego Ricardus filius Willelmi concedo et carta mea confirmo Deo et elemosinarie domui ecclesie Beati Petri Westmonasterii duas partes decimacionis feudi mei de Buchetuna quod tenet de me iure hereditario regni tam de dominio quam de villatia in omnibus que decimari possunt tam honorifice et libere et quiete sicut unquam melius possedit et tenuit domus predicta donatione patris mei Willelmi. Hiis testibus: Hamone clerico (fn. 9) Herfordiensi; Willelmo filio meo; Willelmo de Fernar'; Ilberto filio Hamonis; Goscelino fratre eiusdem.

MS: WAM LV.

17.4 × 7 cm.

Seal: red; on tongue from bottom left-hand corner and a tie; 6.2 cm diameter; figure on horseback, facing right, holding a falcon in right hand.

Endorsed: (a) Carta Ricardi filii Willelmi de ij ^bus partibus feodi sui decimationis in Buchetuna ecclesie Westmonasterii concessis (13C). (b) Elemosinarie (14C). (c) Bouketon' pro decimis (14C).

Date: An early date is indicated by the wording of this document.

Note: The name of the first witness supports the identification of Richard's fee with Buckton, Heref., which in 1086 pertained to the barony of Ralph de Mortimer (VCH Heref. I, 345).

479. Notification by Robert Foliot that he and his wife Margaret granted to St Peter of Westminster and the monks the manor of Sulby (Northants.), to hold for the service of one knight, as they rendered to the grantors' predecessors, in the reign of H[I]. [Dec. 1148 × early 1150]

Robertus Foliot omnibus Sancte Dei Ecclesie filiis per Angliam constitutis, et omnibus hominibus et amicis suis, tam Francis quam Anglicis, salutem. Sciatis me et Margaretam uxorem meam concessisse Deo et Sancto Petro Apostolo Westmonasterii, et monachis ibidem Deo famulantibus manerium de Suleby cum omnibus eidem manerio pertinentibus. ad tenendum de nobis et heredibus nostris inperpetuum eodem servicio quo faciebant predecessoribus nostris tempore Regis Henrici, videlicet servitium unius militis. Quare volo et firmiter precipio quod dicti monachi teneant supradictum manerium bene et in pace, et libere et quiete. intus et extra, sicuti ipsi unquam melius et liberius tenuerunt tempore alicuius antecessorum nostrorum. Et super hoc nullus se inde (fn. 10) intromittat nisi per eos. Hiis subscriptis testibus ex parte Roberti Foliot: Waltero priori [de] Sancto Neoto; Marcho monacho; Ivone Tailleboys; Osberto de Maisi; Willelmo, clerico de Burtoria; Radulfo de Pottona: Willelmo de Maiscu'l; Willelmo Francigeno; Ernulfo fratre Roberti Foliot; Roberto filio Egenulphi; Elia filio [lvonis] Taileboys: ex parte monachorum: Rogero de Wenberga; Absolon et Willelmo filio suo, et Johanne fratre eius; Sampson filio Haconis.

MS: WAD, f. 499r–v.

Rubric: Carta Roberti Foliot de manerio de Sulebi.

Marginalia: Sulebi.

Date: Term of office of Prior Walter of St Neots was c. 1145 × 1152/8 (Heads. 108), but the charter was presumably issued in response to the mandate of Abp. Theobald (195).

Note: Robert Foliot held the barony of Chipping Warden, Northants., from an uncertain date in the mid 12C. His wife Margery (or Margaret) was daughter of Richard de Reinbuedcurt, son of Guy de Reinbuedcurt, the DB holder of this barony (Sanders, 33). In 1086, the abbey was not a tenant of the barony. The only land of the barony in Sulby comprised two and a half hides and one third of a virgate (DB I, f. 227). In 1166 the abbot held one fee of old enfeoffment of the barony of Robert Foliot (Liber Niger Scaccarii, 213; RBE, 331).

480. Confirmation in pure and perpetual alms by Henry Sumer for his soul and those of all his predecessors and heirs, to St Peter and the convent, to provide lights for the Lady Altar, of a virgate of land in the vill of Deene (Northants.), which Simon of Deene and Ivo his son confirmed to him by their charters, in hereditary right, to hold at an annual rent of 1 lb pepper. The land comprised half a virgate which Modiva held and half a virgate which Simon and Ivo gave him from their demesne. The convent would acquit him of the pepper rent. [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Henricus Sumer dedi, concessi, et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi, pro salute anime mee et omnium predecessorum et heredum meorum, Deo et Beato Petro et conventui Westmonasterii, ad administracionem luminarium altaris Beate Virginis Marie, unam virgatam terre in villa de Dien, quam Simon de Dien et Ivo filius eius michi dederunt et cartis suis confirmaverunt, pro homagio et servicio meo. Tenendam et habendam de eis et heredibus suis iure hereditario pro una libra piperis eis in Natali Domini annuatim solvenda: dimidiam scilicet virgatam terre quam Modiva tenuit in eadem villa, et dimidiam quam predictus Simon et Ivo michi dederunt de dominico suo. Habendam et tenendam de me et de heredibus meis cum omnibus pertinentiis suis in puram et perpetuam elemosinam, liberam, quietam ab omnibus querelis, placitis et auxiliis et ab omni seculari consuetudine per predictum servicium. Et ut hec donacio mea stabilis et rata permaneat, earn presentis scripti testimonio et sigilli mei apposicione roboravi, et cartas predictorum Simonis et Ivonis dominorum meorum super altare Beate Marie optuli. Predictus vero conventus prefatam libram piperis michi et heredibus meis persolvent. Et ego et heredes mei warantizabimus eis predictam terram pro posse nostro contra omnes homines et omnes feminas, et acquietabimus eos versus predictos Simonem et Ivonem et heredes eorum. Hiis testibus: Simone et Alexandra capellanis; Roberto Mauduit; Andrea de Scaccario et Willelmo filio eius; Willelmo de Hanslape; Rogero Enganet; Alexandra clerico; Magistro Michaele; Odone aurifabro; Wimundo pistore; Petro de Wandene; Stephano de Berking'; Gileberto le Brac[us]; Herewardo scriptore; Gaufrido, Ada, Radulfo, servientibus ecclesie; Gileberto Trepingar, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 567v–568.

Rubric: Carta Henrici Sumer de una virgata terre in villa de Dien.

Note: The manor of Deene was given to Westminster by King Edward (Harvey, WA, 355). A final concord which terminated a lawsuit brought by Abbot William d'Humez early in 1215 shows that Simon of Deene held the manor by a service of hospitality (F. M. Stenton, The First Century of English Feudalism (2nd edn., 1961), Appendix no. 17, 267–9). Henry Sumer prob. acquired his tenancey either through favour of the abbot or through contacts acquired in his capacity as a reeve of Westminster.

481. Notification by Juliana, abbess of the church of St John the Baptist, Godstow, that the convent, with the assent of the whole chapter, has promised to the abbot and convent of Westminster, to render annually to their sacrist, a pension of five marks (£3. 6s. 8d.) from the church of Bloxham (Oxon.), to provide lights for the High Altar. The oath to observe this has been sworn by the nuns' chaplain, Waleran. 14 June 1197.

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens scriptum pervenerit, Juliana abbatissa ecclesie Sancti Johannis Baptiste de Godestowe, et totus eiusdem loci conventus eternam in Domino, salutem. Quia malignantis mundi calumpnie multipliciter excrescunt, et mendaces plerumque ut nec vera dicentibus credatur, promissionem quam viris venerabilibus abbati et conventui Westmonasterii fecimus super pensione ecclesie de Bloccesham nobis a prefato conventu in perpetuam elemosinam concesse, scripto duximus corroborandam. Noverit itaque universitas vestra nos, unanimi assensu totius capituli nostri, spontanea voluntate concessisse et firmiter ac fideliter in vera fide et Christiana securitate promisisse predicto abbati et conventui Westmonasterii quod de ecclesia de Bloccesham, quam ipsi nobis in perpetuam elemosinam caritative concesserunt, singulis annis sacriste Westmonasterii ad luminare magni altaris eiusdem ecclesie nomine pensionis quinque marcas argenti persolvemus ad duos terminos, videlicet: infra octavas Festivitatis Omnium Sanctorum duas marcas et dimidiam; et infra octavas Pentecostes duas marcas et dimidiam. Promisimus etiam eis in bona fide, pura et simplici conscientia coram Deo, prestito etiam iuramento per of et manum Waleramni capellani nostri, in verbo veritatis, in animas nostras sacrosanctis evangeliis ab eodem inspectis, quod nunquam apud aliquem vel aliquos per nos vel per interponitam personam artem aliquam fraudis vel ingenii queremus ut predicta ecclesia Westmonasterii prenominate pensionis ecclesie de Bloccesham diminutionem aliquam incurrat vel alienacionem vel quo minus prefatus conventus per manum sacriste sui predictum redditum ad statutos terminos integre et absque detentione et occasione percipiat, sed omnem operam dabimus quatinus pacis et concorde bonum, quod inter nos et prenominatam ecclesiam Westmonasterii consilio magnorum virorum initiatum est, debita semper in Domino stabilitate subsistat. Et ut hec nostra promissio debita fide et omnimoda securitate compleatur, earn presenti scripto et sigillo ecclesie nostre communivimus. Hiis testibus: Domino Hugone abbate Abbendonie; et Nicholao et Ricardo monachis et capellanis eius; Waleramno capellano, qui hanc promissionem juramento firmavit; Johanne de Kensinton'; et Henrico de Kensinton', fratre eius; Marino, clerico domine regine; Godefrido de la Den'; Willelmo de Haggehurst'; Roberto de Clere; Magistro Ernulfo Postard; Magistro Simone de Bareswrde; Teodbaldo, senescallo West monasterii; Radulfo de Septem Fontibus et Henrico fratre eius, et multis aliis.

MS: WAD, f. 379.

Rubric: Scriptum indentatum Juliane abbatisse et conventus de Godestowe super pensione predicta.

Date: Attestions identical with 225.

Note: Cf. 225, 323.

482. Notification from James le Salvage that he has sworn in chapter, before the whole convent, to pay an annual pension of thirty marks (£ 20) from the church of Oakham (Rutl.) to Westminster. He will try to secure confirmation from the pope and the diocesan bp. for payment of this pension, but if permission is refused, he will grant in lieu thirty marks from his churches of Swanscombe and Stockbury (Kent). Westminster Abbey [1193 × ante July 1205]

Omnibus Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos littere iste pervenerint, Jacobus le Salvag' salutem. Sciatis me, sacramento corporaliter prestito in pleno capitulo Westmonasterii coram toto conventu ipsius ecclesie, bona fide iurasse me quo advixero de ecclesia de Ocham triginta marcas nomine pensionis predicto conventui redditurum ad quatuor statutos terminos, videlicet: ad Natale Domini centum solidos; ad Pascham centum solidos; ad Natale Sancti Johannis Baptiste centum solidos; ad Festum Sancti Michaelis centum solidos. Juravi etiam quod si a solucione predicte pensionis aliquando cessavero, predictus conventus Westmonasterii omnes fructus ecclesie de Ocham illius absque cuiuscumque reclamatione libere percipiet. Preterea iuravi me omnem operam quam potero adhibiturum ut prenominata pensio triginta marcarum a domino papa et a diocesano episcopo confirmetur. Adieci quoque sub eadem religione iuramenti quod si dominus papa vel diocesanus episcopus solucionem predicte pensionis michi aliquando interdixerint, triginta marcas de ecclesiis meis de Swenescam et de Stockingebire predicto conventui ad supradictos terminos annuatim persolvam, quas videlicet ecclesias eidem conventui ad hoc ipsum faciendum bona fide obligavi. Et ut hec mea promissio stabilis et firma permaneat, nec aliqua umquam mutabilitate possit infringi, hanc presentem cartam meam inde factam sigilli mei appositione consignavi. Hiis testibus: Domino H[uberto], Cantuariensi archiepiscopo; Roberto, archidiacono de Huntindon'; Magistro Simone de Suwell'; Magistro J. de Tinemue; R[anulpho] thesaurario Saresberiensi; Magistro Willelmo de Neketon'; Magistro Helia de Derham; Thoma et Helia, clericis; Ricardo de Dol, senescallo abbatis Westmonasterii; Ricardo janitore; Gaufrido camerario, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 649r–v.

Rubric: Scriptum eiusdem de xxx marcis annue pensionis de ecclesia de Ocham.

Marginalia: Ocham.

(2) F, f. 267v: detached rubric only: Carta Jacobi le Salvage de xxx marcis nomine annue pensionis pro ecclesiis [sic] de Oakham ecclesie Westmonasterii a solvendis.

Date: Attestations of Abp. Hubert, 1193–13 July 1205, when d. (Fasti II, 5); Robert de Hardres, archdeacon of Huntingdon, April 1192 × (1204 × 1207) (Fasti II, 27).

Note: See Harmer, 323, 514–5; Harvey, WA, 404; Mason, 'Rutland Churches', 164–5. Evidently James was only perpetual vicar of Stockbury (EEA, II, no. 150; III, 518).

483. Notification by James Salvage, parson of Swanscombe (Kent), that, for his soul, those of his parents and all his ancestors, he has confirmed to the convent a payment of twenty marks (£13. 6s. 8d.) as alms to the abbey from Hambleton church (Rutl.) so long as he remains in the clerical habit. He has sworn to keep this promise. [Temp. John]

Universis Sancte Matris Ecclesie filiis ad quos presens carta pervenerit, Jacobus Salvage, persona de Sweneschans [sic], eternam in Domino salutem. Qui ecclesiarum utilitatibus specialiter deserviunt ecclesiastica specialius merentur remuneratione gaudere: ad omnium itaque noticiam pervenire desidero quod, considerata religione et honestate fratrum ecclesie Westmonasterii et elemosinarum largicione que in ea geruntur mora et gratuita liberalitate, pro salute anime mee et patris et matris mee et omnium antecessorum meorum, dedi et concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi conventui Westmonasterii viginti marcas argenti de ecclesia de Hameldon nomine elemosine quamdiu in clericali habitu permansero, singulis annis percipiendas ad tres terminos anni: ad Natale, videlicet, Domini quinque marcas; et ad Pascham decem marcas; et ad Natale Sancti Johannis Baptiste quinque marcas. Ego autem prefatus Jacobus Salvage hanc donacionem caritative faciens coram predicto conventu Westmonasterii in capitulo suo, spontanea voluntate tactis sacrosanctis evangeliis, me in hac donatione fidelem permansurum iuravi. atque eidem conventui statutis terminis singulis annis predictas viginti marcas absque omni occasione vel fraude redditurum. Ut autem hec mea donatio et concessio nulla ratione vel occasione meis temporibus adnichilari valeat, sed stabilis et rata permaneat, earn presentis scripti testimonio et sigilli mei apposicione roboravi.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 649.

Rubric: Carta Jacobi Salvag', persone de Sweneschams de viginti marcis annue pensionis de ecclesia de Hameldon'.

Marginalia: (1) Pitanciarius. (2) Hameldon'.

(2) F, f. 267v: detached rubric only, apparently referring to this charter: Item carta eiusdem [Jacobi le Salvage] de pensione xx marcarum de ecclesia de Hameldon.

Date: James Savage was a member of Abp. Hubert's familia (K. Major, 'Familia of Archbishop Stephen Langton', EHR 48 (1933), 530; EEA, III, 307). In 1206 he was a royal clerk (150).

484. Notification by Geoffrey Fitz Peter, earl of Essex, that he has received from Abbot Ralph and the convent their vill of Claygate (Surr.) to hold of them for his lifetime, at an annual rent of £3 to the almonry. He received the vill devoid of stock, whether of corn or cattle. After his d., the vill will revert to the abbot and convent, with the improvements he makes, whether in buildings, ploughs, cultivated and uncultivated land, and all growing corn, although corn in the barn is at his disposal, but he undertakes to conserve the woodland. [1200 × 1213]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Gaufridus filius Petri, comes Essex', recepi de Radulfo abbate et conventu Westmonasterii villam eorum de Claygate cum omnibus pertinentiis suis, tenendam de eis tantummodo in vita mea pro sexaginta solidis ad quatuor terminos anni elemosinarie eorum reddendis, videlicet: ad Natale Domini quindecim solidis; ad Pascha quindecim solidis; ad Festum Sancti Johannis Baptiste quindecim solidis; et ad Festum Sancti Michaelis quindecim solidis, et ita singulis annis quamdiu tenuero de illis predictam villam. Et sciendum quod recepi predictam villam absque omni stauro, sive bladi sive pecunie. Post decessum vero meum prefata villa ad abbatem et conventum Westmonasterii quieta et soluta redibit, absque omni reclamatione heredum meorum vel aliquorum ad me pertinentium, cum emendationibus quas in eadem villa fecero: sive in edificiis, sive in carrucis, in terris cultis et incultis, cum omni blado seminato. Bladum autem predicte ville quod in horreo erit, in mea erit dispositione, cui voluero dare vel relinquere absque aliqua contraditione. Boscum autem predicte ville faciam custodiri ut non wastetur. Et ut hec conventio stabilis sit et firma, eam sigilli mei appositione et testium subscriptione confirmavi. Hiis testibus: Domino Willelmo, archidiacono de Tautune; Rogero, constabulario Turris; Gerardo de Kayli; Johanne de Kauz; Ricardo de Dol, senescallo abbatis; Ricardo de Stapelek' clerico; Uliano Cheneduit; Jordano Peverel; Gaufrido camerario; Jacobo hostiario; Gerardo coco; Roberto de Krokel', et aliis pluribus.

MS: WAM 1842.

19.7 × 10.3 cm; t.u. 1.4cm.

Seal: on tag; 5.8cm diameter; obverse: equestrian figure, facing right.

Counter seal: now missing.

Endorsed: (a) Kleygate (14C). (b) Firma non renovatur.

Date: Geoffrey Fitz Peter as earl.

Note: Claygate had been granted to the abbey in the mid eleventh century, and was confirmed by King Edward (Harvey, WA, 358).

485. Confirmation by Roger son of Edward to the Blessed Virgin and the abbot and convent, for the use of the almonry, of six acres of land in the vill of Claygate (Surr.), which Hubert held there, and which lie to the west of the land which the almoner holds in that vill, of the fee which was Gilbert's. The land will be held in perpetuity, at an annual rent of 1s. 6d. The abbot and convent gave him a gersum of £1. 5s. 8d., by the hands of Peter, the almoner. [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Rogerus filius Eduuardi dedi et concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi Deo et Beate Marie et abbati et conventui Westmonasterii, ad usus et utilitatem elemosinarie eiusdem ecclesie, sex acras terre cum omnibus pertinentiis suis in villa de Claigate, quas Hubertus tenuit in eadem villa. Que scilicet sex acre iacent a terra quam elemosinarius tenet de feodo quod fuit Guleberti in eadem villa versus occidentem. Habendas et tenendas de me et heredibus meis inperpetuum, libere et quiete, integre et plenarie, absque alicuius reclamatione; reddendo inde michi vel heredibus meis elemosinarius qui pro tempore fuerit singulis annis octodecim denarios pro omni servicio et exaccione seculari ad duos terminos anni, scilicet: ad Festum Sancti Michaelis novem denarios, et ad Pascha novem denarios. Ego autem predictus Rogerus et heredes mei warantizabimus predictam terram cum omnibus pertinentiis predictis abbati et conventui et eorum elemosinario, qui pro tempore fuerit, per predictum servicium octodecim denariorum contra omnes homines et feminas inperpetuum. Pro hac autem donatione et concessione et huius carte mee confirmatione dederunt michi predicti abbas et conventus per manus Petri monachi, tunc temporis elemosinarii, viginti quinque solidos sterlingorum et octo denarios in gersummam. Et ut hec donatio et concessio et presentis carte mee confirmatio rata et stabilis permaneat inperpetuum eam sigilli mei appositione roboravi. Hiis testibus: Ricardo de Dol, tunc senescallo Westmonasterii; Willelmo de Brademere; Willelmo Pichot; Odone aurifabro de Westmonasterio; Stephano de Berkinge; Ricardo filio Edmundi; Roberto de Crokesl'; Hamundo de Laburgh'; Roberto le Brutun; Hugone Stuth; Alano de Drapier. et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAM 1855.

19.3 × 9.8cm; t.u. 2.4cm.

Seal: on tag; green; 4 × 6.5 cm; bird (? eagle) with raised wings, head looking across its back, to the left: legend: + SIGILL' ROGERI FILII EDWARDI.

Endorsed: (a) Carta Rogeri filij Edwardi de sex acris terre cum pertinenciis in villa de Cleygate ecclesie Westmonasterii ad utilitatem elemosinarie concessis, reddendo inde annuatim per manus elemosinarii dicto Rogero et suis heredibus octodecim denariis (13C). (b) Cleygat' de sex acris terre (14C).

(2) WAD, ff. 465v–466.

486. Confirmation, in pure and perpetual alms, by Hugh son of Ingulf to the church of Westminster and the monks, of half an acre in South Lambeth (Surr.), next to the land of Walter the brewer, in the land called Hide, in order to link up the water-course of the Winterburn with the Thames. The abbot and convent gave him a gersum of two marks (£1. 6s. 8d.). [Temp. John]

Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego Hugo filius Ingulfi dedi et concessi et hac presenti carta mea confirmavi Deo et ecclesie Westmonasterii et monachis ibidem Deo servientibus, in puram et perpetuam elemosinam, dimidiam acram terre in Sudlamhee que jacet iuxta terram Walteri le bracur, in terra que vocatur Hida, ad entrahendum cursum aque de Winterburne usque ad Tamisiam. Habendam et tenendam de me et heredibus meis bene et in pace, libere et quiete, integre et plenarie inperpetuum, absque omni seculari servicio et exactione. Et ego Hugo et heredes mei warantizabimus et aquietabimus predictam dimidiam acram [versus] (fn. 11) dominum fundi et versus omnes homines. Et pro hac donatione et concessione et carte mee confirmatione, abbas et conventus dederunt michi duas marcas argenti. Hiis testibus: Willelmo Eliensi, domini regis tesaurario; Magistro Benedicto; Gocelino marescallo; Willelmo de Neketon; Reginaldo de Cronhull'; Thoma de Chimilli; Rogero Foliot; Uliano Cheinduit; Pentecoste de Wendlswrth'; Amauricio; Jacobo ostiario; Nicolao filio Galfridi, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 164r–v.

Rubric: Carta Hugonis filii Ingulfi de dimidia acra terre in Suth Lambheye.

(2) WAM 1808: paper copy made temp. Dean Gabriel Goodman (1561–1601).

Endorsed: (a) A piece of evidence of the manor of Batteirsesby. (b) Land given to the abbey to pusche the water in the Thame.

Marginalia: (1) Memorandum de cursu aque de Winterborne prope Southlambeth. (2) Extracta et concordata cum libro vocato Domesdaie boke folio 171. (3) Gabrielle Goodman. (4) Per me Robertum Allatt Registrar decano et capitulo Westmonasterii.

Note: Text is entered in WAD on a folio headed Battersea. This transaction was prob. designed to facilitate the water-transport of produce from the abbey's manors in Surrey.

487. Notification by Peter Fitz Herbert to the barons of the Exchequer and justices of the Bench that he has received £100 from the abbot and convent of Westminster, and that they treated him favourably in all other matters, according to a concord made between them in the king's court over the manor of Parham (Sussex). He requests the barons that according to the form of the concord, they should make a cirograph in the king's court. Since he cannot be present in person, on account of the king's business, he assigns Mr Jocelin the king's marshal to take delivery of that cirograph on his behalf, and he will ratify anything negotiated between Jocelin and them. He also appoints Jocelin to take delivery of the charter which the abbot should make him, according to the concord, and to render them his (Peter's) charter. [1214]

Omnibus baronibus de Scaccario et justiciis domini regis de Banco, et omnibus has litteras visuris et audituris, Petrus filius Herberti, salutem. Noverit universitas vestra me recepisse centum libras de abbate et conventu de Westmonasterio et quod ipsi fecerunt gratum meum de omnibus aliis, secundum concordiam factam inter nos coram vobis in curia domini regis pro manerio de Pereham. Inde est quod vos precor diligenter, quatinus secundum formam concordie inter nos facte, cirographum in curia domini regis faciatis, et quare ad presens pro negocio domini regis in propria persona interesse non possum, Magistrum Jocelinum marescallum domini regis ad cirographum illud recipiendum loco mei assigno gratum et ratum habiturus quicquid vos et ipse inde feceritis, et preterea eundem Jocelinum in loco meo assigno ad recipiendam cartam predicti abbatis et conventus quam michi facere debent, secundum formam dicte concordie, et ad faciendam eisdem cartam meam secundum forman eandem. Valete.

MS: WAD, f. 571v–572.

Rubric: Littera Petri filii Herberti super manerio de Pereham.

Date: Peter Fitz Herbert's dispute with the abbey over Parham ran between 1211 and 1214 (Curia Regis Rolls VI, 119, 133, 176–7, 215, 287, 296, 393; VII, 239. See also R. V. Turner, The King and his Courts (Ithaca, N.Y., 1968), 256.

Note: Peter Fitz Herbert was a prominent curialis (Turner, ibid.).

488. Memorandum of a restoration by Robert Dispenser, for his soul, of the land and manor of Comberton (Worcs.), part of the abbey's demesne, which he bought from Gilbert Fitz Turold from the estate of the abbey. He also restored to the abbey the land called Wick which he held at farm from Abbot Gilbert in that manor, and which was a member of the manor of Pershore (Worcs.). In the presence of Bp. Walchelin of Winchester and other named witnesses, Robert's wife and his brother Urse [d'Abetot] placed on the [high] altar of St Peter this restoration [symbolised] by two silver candelabra; a thurible, altar cloth and a tapestry. [1095–96 × ante 1098]

Robertus Dispensator reddidit in vita sua Sancto Petro Westmonasterii, pro anima sua, terram et manerium Cumbrinton, quod de beneficio eiusdem ecclesie emerat a Gisleberto filio Toraldi. Et insuper reddidit eidem ecclesie terram quam de abbate Gisleberto eiusdem monasterii ad firmam tenebat in manerio ipsius ecclesie quod dicitur Wich, et est membrum manerii de Persore. Testes huius redditionis sunt: Episcopus Walchelinus; Urso frater eiusdem Roberti; Herbertus camerarius, Reg[inaldus] de Winton', Ivo Taillebosc et homines ipsius Roberti, Godardus, Robertus de Echinton, Hugo de Holavessael; de aliis baronibus regis: Hugo de Belcampo; Willelmus Bainardus; Petrus de Valunnis; Willelmus camerarius; Hugo de Bochelanda; Otto Aurifex, et multi alii, clerici et laici; homines ipsius abbatis: Otbert de Surreia, Willemus clericus, Girardus frater eius, Hugo de Coleham, Richerius. Hanc redditionem, presente episcopo Walchelino et predictis testibus, posuerunt super altare Sancti Petri uxor ipsius Roberti et Urso frater eiusdem Roberti, per duo candelabra argentea, unum turribulum, unum pallium, unum tapete.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 292v.

Rubric: Teligraphus Roberti Dispensatoris de terra et manerio de Cumbertona.

Marginalia: Cumbertona.

(2) CAY, f. lxix verso: telligraphus (memorandum).

Pd: Gilbert Crispin, 146, no. 27.

Cal: Bentley, 33, no. 254, from CAY.

Date: Bishop Walchelin d. 3 Jan. 1098 (Fasti II, 85). Robert's latest attestation is 1095 × 1096 (Regesta I, no. 388, cf. no. 479).

Note: Cf. 66; Gilbert Crispin, 146–7; Harvey, WA, 361, 364. In 1086, Gilbert Fitz Turold was the tenant of the abbey in Comberton, and Robert Dispenser was not recorded as having any interest in this estate (DB I, f. 175). The makeshift nature of restoration, by proxy, suggests that Robert, a well-known curialis (Beauchamp Cartulary, xx—xxj), was gravely ill.

489. Mandate of Waleran, count of Meulan, to his bailiffs and officers in Worcs. and reeves and officers in Wick that the church of St Peter and the monks of Westminster are to have their tithe from his rents in Wick as in the time of HI. [Dec. 1135 × summer, 1141]

G[ualeranus] comes de Mellent omnibus ballivis et ministris suis de Wirecestreschira et omnibus prepositis et ministris de Wych, salutem. Precipio quod ecclesia Sancti Petri et monachi de Westmonasterio ita bene et in pace et honorifice et iuste habeant decimam suam in redditibus meis de Wych, sicut melius aut quietius aut honorificencius habuerunt tempore Regis Henrici. Et super hoc nullus disturbet inde homines vel servientes eorum etcetera. T[estibus].

MS: F, ff. 279v–280.

Rubric: Item littera de decima de Wich Capitulum xciiij.

Date: Possibly issued before Waleran was created earl of Worcester, late in 1138, since he already had territorial interests there (David Crouch, The Beaumont Twins (1986), 39). He finally left England in the summer of 1141 (ibid. 51–2).

490. Notification by Geoffrey de St Leger that he has become the man of Abbot Walter for two knights' fees in Strensham (Worcs.), for which his father Reginald was the man of the previous abbots, saving the use of the tenement for his mother while she lives. He will pay to the abbot the full relief of £10 if his mother dies or becomes a religious or otherwise gives up the land; when he pays the relief the abbot or his successors is to give him a charter. [1175 × 1190]

Sciant presentes et futuri quicumque has litteras viderint vel audierint quod ego Galfridus de Sancto Ligerio deveni homo Walterii abbatis Westmonasterii de feodo duorum militum in Strengesham de quo Reginaldus de Sancto Ligerio, pater meus, fuit homo antecessorum suorum, salvo eo tenemento ad opus matris mee quamdiu ipsa vixerit et terram tenere voluerit, videlicet: quod non inquietabo nee aliquid dominium vel magisterium propter hoc homagium super illam faciam in predicto tenemento. Et sciendum preterea quod ego debeo prenominato abbati plenum relevium meum, decem videlicet libras reddendas, si mater mea decesserit, vel habitum religionis susceperit, vel michi terram meam sponte reddiderit vel quocumque alio modo illam dimiserit. Et sciendum quia quum reddam ei relevium suum ipse vel successores sui faciant michi rationabilem cartam meam. Hiis testibus: Alexandro monacho; Radulfo monacho; Martino monacho; Alexandro fratre abbatis; Galfrido Picot; Magistro Nicholao; Petro de Wicha; Willelmo Picot; Randulfo, serviente abbatis; Bartholomeo de Assewell; Nicholao filio Roberti; Radulfo de Kuden'; Bartholomeo de Hannia; Willelmo de Kuden; Jordano filio Nicholai filii Roberti, et multis aliis.

MSS: (1) WAD, f. 293.

Rubric: Scriptum Galfridi de Sancto Ligerio de homagio feodi duorum militum et de relevio decem librarum.

(2) CAY, f. lxix verso (memorandum).

Cal: Bentley, 33, 110. 254, from CAY.

Date: Term of office of Abbot Walter.

Note: Neither Geoffrey nor his father is readily identifiable in the carta returned by Abbot Laurence in 1166 (Liber Niger Scaccarii, 51; RBE, l, 188).

Footnotes