The city of Exeter: Letters and other papers (3 of 10)

Topsham.

L. 107. July 24, 1602.—Stephen Ridlesden (fn. 1) requests the Mayor &c. to shew cause before Mr. Doctor[Julius] Caesar (fn. 2) why they deny to his "assignees for the measurage of seacoals, corne and salt wihtin th eporte of Topsam, the execution of that place," adding: "I wilbe ready to attend and yf ye shall finde that yt belongeth unto you I will surcease, and if it is dewe to me by my graunt I hope you will suffer my deputies to enjoy it quietly, otherwise I must take that course which the lawe will give me leave."

In D. 1254, Oct. 30, 1467, is a lease of "le Crane et le Key alieas le Warf et le Crane de Topsham,: and a house called "La Fyve Selers," granted by John Wode, Esquire, for one year (at a rental of 10l.), together with the profits of the same, except a fourth or third part of 8d. for every ton of wine, parcel of the custome of the city Exeter of old time due to the Lord of Topsham.

In Act Book, IV, f 152, April 14, 1567, is an agreement for the Cranage and Wharfage granted to Mr. Geoffrey Tothill (see page 51).

In D. 1623, Nov. 6, 1583, William Stubbes of Ratclyffe (Middlesex) gives a bond of 400l. to secure a conveyance to the Mayor &c. of "all that crane or key and cranage and sellers of the Porte of Topsham and the fyshinge in the water of Clyste, together with all storehouses, sellers and sollers, voyde ground and land, and also all fees, offyces, tolls, customes, pryvyledges, prehemynences, lyberties, prfytts and emoluments wahtsoever to the said crane, key and cranage, sellers and fyshyng belonginge" granted to him by Letters Patent of May 16, 1583.

In Act Book, IV, f 285b, June 17, 1558, it is agreed concerning the crane and the mills of Topsham that the same is referred to be followed by Mr. Herte (see page 64), according to the late Instrucitons given to Mr. George Smyth in this behalf, which he has with him.

In L. 123 (dated from the Court at Greenwich, June 20, 1607) the Earl of Bedford [i.e. Edward Russell, 3rd Earl] writes to the Mayor &c. concerning a petition which is about to be exhibited to him on behalf of the inhabitants of Topsham, in which manor he is about to have an interest by a grant from the King.

In L. 124, Nov. 1608, Abraham Sewens of London and Hugh Morrell [Bailiff in 1601] of Exeter, merchants, complain to the Lord High Treasurer, Robert [Cecil] Earl of Salisbury, (fn. 3) that the Comptroller and other officers of the Port of Apsham [i.e. Topsham] take excessive fees of merchants bringing corn into the country and take three bushells of every ship, alledging it to be his duty, &c.

In L. 128, Whitehall, April 27, 1609, the Earl of Salisbury desires the Mayor, Sir John Acland, (fn. 4) Sir Christopher Harris (fn. 5) and others to enquire into the matter of these "fee-bushels."

In Book 51, f. 54, are orders or customes to be observed at the Key, Crane or Wharffe of Toppesham and rates for the same, with the like for the Key at Exeter (f. 55). [See also Misc. Papers, 1700.]

In D. 1707, Oct. 20, 1607, is a lease of wharf, crane, cranage and cellars of Topsham granted by the Mayor &c. for four years at a rental of 20l. p.a. Also in D. 1785 (Jan. 29, 1691) is a similar lease for seven years, together with the passage of ships and lighters through the Haven at a rental of 800l.

Death of Queen Elizabeth.

L. 111. March 25, 1603.—The Lords of the Council inform the Mayor &c. of the death of Queen Elizabeth, which took place on the previous day [Oliver, 108], and command them to proclaim King James I. (fn. 6) —Your very lovin frends, Northumberland, Pembroke, Jo. Cant., Tho. Egerton, T. Buckhurst and many others.

Bonvile's Almhouses.

L. 112. London, Oct. 1, 1604.—Sir Julius Caesar (fn. 7) desires the Mayor and Aldermen to grant an almshouse in Saint Rock's Lane, (fn. 8) to one John Moore, a poor man of Exeter, and his wife, "being a lame and weake woman as it is alliadged, who are said to bee of your owne citye and there to have beene borne and bred up amongest yow," for whom suit had been been made to the King. "I have thought good to forbear the procuring of any such grant from his Majestie in respect that I have bene formerlie advertised by yow or some of yow that the right of disposing the said almeshouses is not in his Majestie, but in yourselves, as deryved from a graunt thereof made unto you by some of his Majesties predecessors, which being so I would not willinglie impeach." He then asks them "to bestowe one of the said places uppon the poore man if any bee now voyd, or otherwise the Reversion of the next that shall fall.—Your verie loving frende, Jul. Cesar."

In L. 131, Whitehall, Dec. 31, 1609, Roger Wilbraham (fn. 9) and Daniel Dun (fn. 10) inform the Mayor and Mr. Copstone, Paymaster of the Poor in Rocke Lane, (fn. 11) that the King's Majestie, in consideration of his service, hathe graunted to Nicholas Crompton, a poor soldier, "an Almes Rome ther in Exeter which is absolutlie in his Majesties disposicion as is alledged." They require the Mayor &c. to admit him, they having refused to do so.

For the right of presentation, see Charter XXXVIII.

In L. 446, May 12, 1698, William Symon [or Symons, L. 457 (Feb. 25, 1690), where he represents the city's interests in London, and L. 465 (Dec. 16, 1708), where he desires payment of his bill], informs the Receiver [George Yard—Receivers' Accts. 9–10 William III; Izacke, 190] respecting the suit made to the Council through the Duke of Ormond, (fn. 12) for licence to remove Bonville's Almshouses. (fn. 13)

In L. 447 is a copy of an order in Council for their removal, issued from the Court at Kensington on July 15, 1698, together with a report on the subject by the Attorney General and some notes on the Almshouses.

Vintners and Taverners Licences.

L. 113. Dec. 29, 1604.—The Lords of the Council write to the Mayor &c. respecting the repeal of "that Braunche of the Statute of 7 Edward VI (fn. 14) concerning the prizes of wines," in consequence of which many vintners and taverners have incurred sondrie greate penalties and commanding them to cause it to be known that all vintners are to "make theire repaire to the howse of Arthur Ingram, Esquire, (fn. 15) scituate in Marke Lane, London, so soone as convenientlie they maye, there to conclude and compound for pardons for times past and licenses to sell wines in times to come." Signed, T. Ellesmere, Canc.; (fn. 16) T. Dorset; F.J. Worcester; T. Northampton; Cranbourne; Thos. Burghley; W. Knollys; E. Wotton; J. Balmerino; J. Popham; J. Fortescue.

In L. 114, Whitehall, Feb. 11, 1605, the Lords of the Council write to the Mayor &c. referring to L. 113, and informing them that at the suit of the Earl of Nottingham (fn. 17) they have appointed Thomas Isack, gentleman, and George Leach, clothier, to receive the compositions and grant licences to vintners and taverners to sell wines in Exeter.

In L. 115, March 1, 1605, the Lords of the Council command the Mayor &c. to call before them all such vintners and taverners as have not compounded and taken new licences and to compel them to do so.

In L. 117, July 7, 1605, the Lords of the Council reprove the Mayor &c. for negligence in not enforcing the order in L. 115. If any vintners &c. refuse to comply they are to be treated according to the "auncient Lawe of Edward the first sometime King of England, and you are in your owne person to see their dores to be shutt up so to remaine untill they reforme themselves."

In L. 118 (dated Exeter House in the Strand, July 15, 1606) Theophilus Rayshleygh, Secretary to the Lord Steward [Charles Howard, Earl of Nottingham—see L. 114], writes to Mr. John Prouse [M.P. for Exeter 1604–1611] at Exeter that he has delivered his letter with that from the Mayor and his brethren to his Master, and that his Lordship has written to the Earl of Bath [Lord Lieutenant of Devon—see page 10]. "I have herein sent you a coppie (fn. 18) of what my Lo. was now pleased to write" adding that he was unable to send the letter to the Earl of Salisbury [Robert Cecil], and that "my Lo. and all our Company toke horse at 8 of the clock at nyght (what time the Counsell did rise) at my Lord of Salisbury's gate, and rid 7 miles to lie that night. We are to take our Journey into Northamptonshire at Burghly, whence we shall scant returne this ffortnight."

In L. 119 (dated at the Court, Feb. 22, 1606, i.e. 1607) the Earl of Nottingham thanks the Mayor &c. for the good respect they have all had to his graunt from his Majestie, which they have manifested in suppressing the supposed authority of the London Vintner.

In L. 428, London, Dec. 4, 1662, Sir John Colleton (fn. 19) writes to the Mayor respecting "my demand of Interest for my monyes disburst about 16 yeares to ye Chambre of Exon."

In 434, Sept. 27, 1664, he releases the Mayor &c. of and from all bills, bonds, accompts, debts, dewes, suites and demands whatsoever from ye beginning of ye world to ye day of ye date hereof," where he is "of St. Martins in ye feilds in ye County of Middx."

High Stewards of Exeter.

In L. 116, May 8, 1605, the Earl of Salisbury [Robert Cecil] gives a receipt for his fee (10l.) as High Steward of Exeter.

In L. 160 (The Court, March 18, 1614) the Earl of Northampton [Henry Howard] thanks the Chamber for having elected him High Steward. (fn. 20)

In L. 167, July 15, 1615, Richard Martin reports to the Mayor that on Monday last he has presented the letter and Patent of Steward of the City to the Treasurer, (fn. 21) "to succeed his noble Uncle for a patron and protector of your Cittie; recommending to his Lordship's good acceptance your loves and good affection," adding that "you were not ignorant that the Cathedrall Church (with which you had some time differences by ther default) had a dependance also uppon his Lordship and had interested themselves in his protection," and that he "accepted ye message and your loves with as much gladness as kindness promising to deserve it by any or all actions which might demonstrate his thanckfullness and love to your cittie and receaved withall the fee of 10l. "for which I send you his Lordship's acquittance" [not preserved]

In L. 205, Nov. 24, 1621, John Prouse writes from London to the Mayor:—

"Sir, I must lykewise advertise you that I have followed my former sollicitation to have up your pattent from my Lord of Suffolke, but I find a strange alteration, for whereas he sent me word by two severall knightes at the former session that the Pattent (fn. 22) should be sought for and that I should have it up, he dothe nowe awnsweare that he will kepe the same and demandeth paymente for three years past and this is his resolute awnsweare sent my (sic) yesterdaie. Sir, there was a tyme when you might have had a better end of this busynesse, but it would not be intertayned for his Lordship did offer to wryte his letters to discharge the Pattent and to give you lybertie to make a newe choyse, which was not thought sufficiente, but I perswade myself that you shal not nowe obteyne so muche. Here the old proverbe is true all covett and all loose. I wish that my pen could have gyven you more pleasing matter which would have pleased me as well."

In L. 217, London, May 4, 1622, William Prous writes to the Mayor &c.:—I wishe in case of assistance you had a nother Stewerd at the Councell bord, where the Lord of Suffolke comes not.

In L. 220, May 25, 1622, William Prous writes to the Chamber that "it is now hye tyme for your worshipps to looke aboute you and speedilie to consulte and resolve to strengthen your Chamber with an assistant Lord Steward that maie in this tyme of neede stand by and backe you for yf this suite of our Bishop take succes your state and government will receive a shrewde blowe and disgrace which will greive everie well affected member of your Citie—be pleased farder to understand that Mr. Recorder hathe praied me to advertise you that yf the Chamber shall deeme It expedient he desires that a speedie letter be to that end framed from the whole bodie of the Chamber and directed to the Lord Treasurar [Lionel Lord Cranfield], whom he thinks meetest to be enterteyned as your assistant Lord Steward. I know his affections inclynes to do kindnes to your Citie: This mocion I leave to your grave and speedie consideracons: and the rather in regard your adversarie is potent and hathe manie eminent friendes to backe his enterprises; wherein he hathe the advantadge of you (your Chamber standinge upon bare feete and is without a pillar to leane unto in this daie of neede).

In L. 238, Nov. 9, 1622, the Chamber inform the Earl of Suffolk that they hear from Mr. Recorder Duck (see page 55) that he (the Earl) claims his pension of 40l. due upon his patent as their High Steward (L. 205). They beg him to remember that a year and a half ago they desired him to give up the patent because he was seldom at the Council board to assist them, and that he promised, if the patent could be found, to do so and desired them to choose another Steward, which, however, out of respect to him they have not done, and they pray him to reconsider his demand.

In L. 282, Oct. 4, 1625, the Chamber inform the Earl of Pembroke (fn. 23) that "att your late being in Devon wee were bolde to present an humble suite to your honour that your honour would be pleased to accepte of the office of Highe Stewardshipp of this Cittie," and they now send him the Patent of his office with the accustomed yearly pension of 10l.

In L. 282a (same date) is a copy of the Patent.

In L. 283 (dated from the Court at Salisbury, Oct. 13, 1625), the Earl of Pembroke writes to Mr. Ignatius Jordan (see L. 210, page 112), Lieutenant of Exeter, the Aldermen and the rest of the Council, accepting the Stewardship.

In L. 332, Wallingford House, May 22, 1630, Lord Weston [i.e. Richard or Baron Weston, Izacke 152] writes to the Chamber thanking them for the Patent of the High Stewardship of Exeter presented to him by Mr. Balle [i.e. Peter Balle, Recorder—see L. 316, 317, page 56].

In L. 367, Whitehall, April 18, 1635, the Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery [i.e. Philip, brother to William Herbert, supra—Izacke, 152] thanks the Chamber for his election as High Steward of Exeter.

For General Monk (fn. 24) [who was appointed High Steward of Exeter in 1662—Izacke, 169], see Comm., CIX, page 13. In Act Book, X, f. 171b, Dec. 2, 1662: this day the Lord Duke of Albemarle his grace was by free consent elected and chosen to be High Steward of this Cittie, and it is ordered that a Patent be prepared to be presented to his Grace as hath byn formerlie to other honourable persons. [His son Christopher Duke of Albemarle was elected High Steward Feb. 1, 1676—Oliver, p. 216.]

In October, 1697, James Butler Duke of Ormond (L. 446, page 31) was appointed High Steward. Izacke, 191.

In D. 1820, Oct. 29, 1715, the Chamber appoints the Prince of Wales [i.e. George Augustus, Prince of Wales Sept. 24, 1714, afterwards George II] High Steward of Exeter, and in L. 459 (undated) they petition him [as Duke of Cornwall] in regard to a lease of houses in the Castle Ditch.

Weights and Measures.

L. 120, March 17, 1606–7.—Mr. John Prouse [M.P. for Exeter, see page 75] forwards a copy of an Act of Parliament [i.e. 8 Henry VI, cap. 5, 1429, Stat. ii, 242] respecting the charges for the use of the public weights and measures. Endorsed: From Mr. John Prowse, the 17th of March, 1606.

[The Bill recites and amends the Statute of 1429, but it does not appear amongst the Statutes of James I in Statute Book, Vol. IV. It was read in the House of Commons on March 12, 1607. Journal H. C., I., 351.]

In Act Book, IV, f. 285b, June 17, 1588, it is agreed "that Mr. Herte (fn. 25) shall according to a warrant under the seale of the office of the mayoraltie receyve at the Exchequer the weights appointed for this Citie according to the late proclamacon for the same, and that Mr. Receyver shall delyver unto hym ixli. viijs. ld. for the same weights and also shall give him iiijli. towardge his chardge to be also paid and aunswered at his retourne for the residue of his chardge."

In D. 1691, May, 1602, is a fragment of a receipt from the Mayor &c. to the Exchequer for a set of standard weights and measures.

In D. 1790, Aug. 30, 1693, is a similar receipt from Samuel Kerison, founder, of London, on behalf of the Chamber of Exeter to the Court of Receipt of the Exchequer.

In D. 1800, May 13, 1700, John Lyford, Collector of Excise, Exon Collection, gives a receipt to the Court of Exchequer for standard quart spirit measures.

Aid for Knighting Prince Henry.

L. 125, Whitehall, March 19, 1608–9.—The Lords of the Council send instructions to the Mayor &c. as to the most advisable manner of proceeding in levying the aid for knighting Prince Henry, the King's eldest son. (fn. 26)

In L. 130, Whitehall, July 13, 1609, the Lords of the Council inform the Mayor and the Commissioners of the Aid that, doubts having arisen as to the liability of Deans and Chapters and other spiritual persons to pay the Aid, a new commission for collecting is issued and the present Commissioners are requested to send in the money they have already collected and to await further orders as to their proceedings.

In D. 1713, Nov. 28, 1609, is an order in the Exchequer for levying the aid for the knighting of Prince Henry.

In Misc. Rolls 77 (2 membrances), April 20, 1609, is an Assessment of the Aid for making Prince Henry a Knight, with signatures and seals of the Commissioners, viz., John Prouse (the Mayor), George Smith (see L. 237), Geoffrey Waltham, William Martyn (Recorder), Thomas Walker and Nicholas Ducke.

A Plot.

L. 127, Whitehall, April 26, 1609.—The Lords of the Council command the Mayor (John Prouse) and the Recorder (William Martyn) to send up one Ellis Cullum, who had been apprehended in Exeter, and who says he can discover and reveal certain practices concerning his Majesty and the State, as he pretends, of a high nature and importance.

The Unemployed.

L. 134, London, Feb. 25, 1609–10.—Sir George Smythe and John Prouse [M.P.'s for Exeter, 1604–1610] report to the Mayor that some "Exeter men have sollicited us to assiste them in presenting of a petition to the Kinge that they might be sett on worke at home, from which course we have disswaded them, knowinge this to be no tyme fitt for suche complaints when corporations are noted out by great men in publick speaches with disgrace." They have sent "theise fellowes" back and request the Mayor that they may be set to work as they are desirous.

In Act Book, VII, f. 295b, Dec. 9, 1624, Mr. Levermore and seven others are desired to vewe St. John's house and to consider what charge wilbe needfull to fitt the said house for a workinge house and alsoe what stock wilbe requisite to sett twentie poore people to worke there, and likewise what yerelie charge wilbe required to continue that number still there and what they or the most parte of them shall thinke fitt touchinge the premisses and they are entreated by the Chamber to certefie to them soe soone as they maye.

In L. 350, Whitehall, Jan. 31, 1630–31, the Lords of the Council send to the Mayor a Commission with orders and directions "put into books (fn. 27) in print that soe the same may be the better published executed and obeyed concerning the administration of the laws that tend to the relieving of impotent poore people, setting to worke those that are able and punishing such as are idle or vagrant," and desiring him to send up a certificate of his proceedings in the matter. (fn. 28)

In L. 380, Whitehall, April 12, 1639, the Lords of the Council command the Mayor and Justices of the Peace for Exeter to confer with J.P.'s for the county of Devon concerning the steps to be taken to set the poor to work as they understand the trade of clothing is much decayed (see L. 199) and the labouring poor want employment. [For the Mayor's reply, April 27, 1639, see Cal. S.P. Dom., 1639, p. 85.]

In D. 1767, April 18, 1653, are Articles of Agreements between the Chamber and Edward Pynce of Exeter, weaver, for setting the poor to work.

In D. 1651, April 11, 1589, Thomas Spicer, merchant, in performance of the will of Lawrence Atwill (fn. 29), conveys to the Mayor &c. as trustees for Atwill's Charity certain tenements and lands in the parish of St. Thomas the Apostle and a messuage called Foxhill in the parish of Uffculme, near Tiverton. For a similar conveyance, see D. 1652, April 30, 1590.

In Act Book, V, f. 76 (1589), is a rental of lands given to the city by Mr. Atwill for the keeping of the poor of this city at work.

For leases of the property in Exweek, see D. 1605 (Jan. 20, 1582), D. 1658 (Sept. 20, 1591); D. 1661 (Oct. 20, 1592); D. 1662 (Dec. 20, 1592); also of land at Uffculme, D. 1673 (Sept. 15, 1595).

In Act Book, X, f. 27b, Aug. 4, 1653, whereas the sum of 610l. has been raised by the felling of trees and coppice at Duryard, and it being conceived fit to discharge Mr. Atwill's account with the same, and further it being conceived right to buy and set up with Mr. Atwill's money a workhouse for the keeping of the Poor of this city on work, a house was accordingly purchased [see D. 503] for that purpose, which belonged to the Treasurer of the Cathedral church [with details of expenditure], and it was ordered that Mr. Gandye doe bring in the two seales of 450l. and a note of 100l. into this Chamber to bee taken upp and cancelled, the money being paid in the manner as is above exprest.

In L. 575, July 3, 1771, Mr. W. Davy forwards a copy of a decree in the case of the Attorney General v. Exeter upon the scheme for the erection of Almshouses of Atwill's Charity. For a subsequent order, dated Jan. 16, 1772, see Report on Charities, p. 153; see also Cases for Opinions, 1773. For suit re Atwill's Charity, see Law Papers, 1784.

Custody of Orphans.

L. 135 (1609) is a paper entitled "the age of the children of Mr. Thomas Snow [a bailiff, A.D. 1600—Izacke, 142] of the Cyttie of Exon, marchant, decessed, anno 1609." There are seven children, viz., Grace, Ann, Prudence, Simon, Mary, Thomas and Joseph—the eldest born Sept. 21, 1590, and the youngest April 24, 1607.

In D. 1697–1698, Nov. 13, 1604, the Chamber gives a receipt for 50l. to Elizabeth Spycer, widow, executrix of the will of Christofer Spicer, part of the portion of William Spycer, one of the sons of the said Christofer, an orphan in custody of the Chamber under the Charter of 2 [i.e., 3] Elizabeth [Charter XXXVII, p. 6], to be kept till June 24, 1608. For a similar receipt for 100l. on account of George Spycer, another son, see D. 1699 (Jan. 23, 1606). For Mrs. Tickell's suit, see L. 173 (Feb. 3, 1615–16), p. 102.

In L. 189, July 16, 1619, Isaack (sic) Bidwell, widow, petitions the Justices of the Western district desiring them to call the officers of the Corporation before them to render account of monies owing to her late husband, who was an orphan in the custody of the Corporation—with a note at the end by [Sir] Richard Hutton (fn. 30) desiring the Chamber to make her some satisfaction or "to make some certificate to the Masters of Requests that his Majestie may no more be trobled."

In L. 198 is an undated copy of her petition, in which she is called Isott Bidwell (fn. 31), with footnote: "Referred to the Justices of Assize for the countie of Devon." It states that her husband being left an orphan, "the Mayor and Aldermen of Exeter tooke into their hands certaine goods and chattles of his to the vallue of 150l. or thereabounts, of which she claims 23l. 18s. 8d. as still due to her. It is there filed with a letter to the Lords of the Council, dated Exeter, July 28, 1621, written by [Sir] Laurence Tanfield (fn. 32) and Sir Richard Hutton, to whom it had been forwarded on June 22, 1621. They report that they have heard the case and do not think "that shee hath any just ground of complaint."

In L. 264, dated Worcester House, Jan. 7, 1623–4, E[dward Somerset Earl of] Worcester (fn. 33) writes to the Mayor:—"After my very hartie comendacons, whereas I lately received a letter and this inclosed petition [L. 265], with direction from his Majestie that I should write unto you in the behalfe of the Petitioner that you should thinke of some satisfaction to be forthwith given her or otherwise her cause to have a rehearinge in the Court of Requests." He therefore advertises the Mayor that "accordingly you would take such order therein that this Petitioner maye have no further cause to trouble his Majestie with her clamors and complaints," &c.

L. 265. The petition referred to in L. 264. In this she is called "Isott Bidwell, widowe." See also Law Papers, "Bidwell v. The Chamber," 1615.

In L. 268, Westminster, April 24, 1624, John Prouse writes to the Mayor:—As touching your busynesse with Ge. Spicer, I leave the same to my brother's [i.e. William Prouse] pen, who can Relate it fully to you, which I doubt not but he will performe.

In Book 51, f. 133b, are "Statutes and Ordynaunces concerninge the ordringe of Orphanes &c."

For proceedings of the Orphans Court, A.D. 1562–1697, see Mayors' Court Books, 141–145; Misc. Pp., A.D. 1562–1650.

Exeter Trainbands.

L. 136 (1609).—A list of the names of such as are to serve with Pike and Corslett [40 names], with musketts [50] and with Collivers [10] [or "calyver," Cotton, Guild, 44], with the names of the officers of the band of the East Ward, viz., Thomas Martyne, Capttayne [Mayor in 1618], Christopher Spicer, Lieutenaunte [Sheriff in 1595], John Blight, Auntient [Bailiff in 1608], John Lynn, and Josias Eveleigh, surgents," also the names of the Drummes of the East Bande, viz., Radford Gill and John Morttymour.

In L. 257, Nov. 29, 1623, the Lords of the Council command [Francis] Lord Russell, Lord Lieutenant of Devon and Exeter [see Comm., LXXXII, page 10], to call the musters of the trained bands in his counties and to send up certificates of the same and what quantities of powder and match are in those counties, with footnote: "This is a true copy. Fra. Russell."

In L. 258, Westminster, Dec. 2, 1623, the above "transcript" is forwarded to William Prowse by Richard Meller, who desires him to deliver it to the Mayor.

In Comm., XCVI, June 16, 1627, Francis Earl of Bedford, Lord Lieutenant, appoints Robert Giver to be muster-master in the city and county of Exeter. Signed, "Fra. Bedford." (fn. 34)

Swordbearers.

L. 137. Middleton, Nov. 24, 1610.—G. Poulett, "upon that small acquaintance that I have with you and the friendeshippe you have always showed me," recommends his servant the bearer to the Mayor for the office of swordbearer. "Whereas there is a motion now in hande for the choice of a fitt person to be swordebearer to the City, he is one that you have known a good while and that hath dwelte in very civill and good fashion and hath served in very good places."

In L. 146. Silferton, March 31, 1611, Bishop William [Cotton, see L. 148, page 47] writes to the Mayor recommending one Cranberrye for the same office, "being thereunto intreated by some of good sort and fashion, who thinke him to be the fittest man yett thought upon for that place."

In L. 149, Coullom John, Sept. 11, 1612, Sir John Aclande writes to the Mayor and Recorder recommending Mr. Tobey for the office. "Your Sowrd bearer beinge as I am enformed displaced." (fn. 35)

In L. 150, Coullom John, Sept. 20, 1612, the same to the same. "The undeserved love and kyndnesses which I have often tymes receved from yourselves hathe occasyoned me to be nowe and then trobelsome unto you by my letters, as latlye uppon the importunetye of onne Tobye of Coullompton and his frynds, who as I ame enformed sursessethe to prosecute his suit anye farder." He now recommends Lennerd Cranburye (fn. 36) (see L. 146), as he remembers to have done before (i.e. in L. 151).

In L. 151, March 30, 1612, Sir Amias Bamfylde (fn. 37) and Sir John Acland write the Mayor and Recorder: "Wee are geven to understande that your olde servant Mr. Northcote is very willing to yelde upp his place which he holdeth under you, and that you purposse to make Choyse of some other fittinge (sic) to serve you in that place. Wee have thought good to commende unto you this bearer Leonarde Crambury, whoe is willinge to doe you the best service he maye.

In L. 152 (undated), the same to the Chamber. The fitnes and desertes of this berer (unnamed) and the greate desier we finde in him to doe you service makes us once againe importune you, &c.

In L. 153 (written at Radford but undated), Mr. John Doddridge [or Dodderidge, M.P. for Barnstaple in 1588] recommends Tobias Rocabacke for the office, being informed by him "that for most iuste and reasonable causes best knowne to yourselves you have suspended your swordbearer from the execution of his office."

For the oath of the swordbearer, see Act Book, II, f. 189b.

In Act Book, VIII, f. 191b, Jan. 19, 1647, it is agreede that Mr. Receiver shall provide and buy a faire newe Beaver for the swordbearer of this Cittie to weare att such tymes as he waites on Mr. Maior his Maistre in the publick service of this Cittie, but not otherwise.

Loans.

In L. 140, London, Nov. 17, 1611, Christopher Maynwaringe (fn. 38) forwards to the Mayor (John Lante), an order from the Lords of the Council (L. 141), dated Nov. 17, 1611, for the release of John Dickinson, "a minister restrayned of his liberty heretofore for some unadvised and undutifull speeches uttered by him against his Majestie and the State," adding: "I have no newes to write you but that yt is sayd how Pryve seales shall come foorthe and that the firste sorte of men that shalle lend are the lawyers, in whose hands there is oone thirde part of the coyne of the Kingedom, which I praye latt Mr. Recorder [i.e. William Martyn] knowe, thowghe I would nott have him oone of the lending lawyers (except) yt mighte come out of Mr. Edmond Parkes rotten bagge."

In L. 142, Nov., 1611, the Deputy Lieutenants inform the Earl of Bath, Lord Lieutenant [see Comm., LXIV, page 10] that on Oct. 31 last they "did take (with Mr. Gyles Carpenter) a general muster of all our serviceable men, armor and munition," and "find them rather in better than in worse condicion then in former tymes they have byn." They send names (fn. 39) of "our trained soldiers being in number 400," and forasmuch as no deputies (but the Maior, Recorder and Mr. John Peryam, who ys an aged, weak and sickly gentleman) are now living, they desire that some new Deputy Lieutenants (fn. 40) may be appointed and among them Sir George Smythe, "he being none as he conceaveth yt because he ys entitled esquier and not by his name of dynitye." (fn. 41) They further add: "Many of the Inhabitants of this Cittie by divers letters from London were certifyed that such loans would be demanded, but the same newse was generally distastfull and unwelcome," and pray for more time to be allowed them to arrange the same. (fn. 42)

In L. 163 (1613) is "a Certificate of the names of those persons (fn. 43) which are hable to lend money to his Majesty upon Privy Seales within the Citty and County of Exon," together with the names of such as Lent last and yeat are newly Taxed." (fn. 44)

For the forced loan of 1627, see Comm., XCV, p. 11.

In D. 1759, July 5, 1642, George Langworthie and Ralph Herman (fn. 45), Collectors of money to be raised for the defence of the kingdom (fn. 46) &c., give a bond in 1,051l. 11s. 9d. to the King to secure payment of the same sum to Sir Richard Gurney, Knight, Lord Mayor of London. (fn. 47)

The Fishing Business.

L. 143, Exchequer Chamber, Dec. 27, 1611, Sir Julius Caesar, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and others write to the Chamber respecting the benefit reaped by the United Provinces by fishing with "busses in his Majesties seas." "The Trade of fishing (being the cheife piller and support of those States) doth most properlie and rightlie belong to his Majestie if his subiects were so industrious and would take the same course that their neighbours do, if some course might be taken for erecting of the like vessells in England." They enclose a letter (L. 144) addressed to them by the King on the subject and desire the Chamber so send up some one or two competent persons to consult upon it at a meeting to be held on "the second Monday after Twelf night next ensuing."

In L. 144, at the Palace at Westminster, Nov. 28, 1611, the King writes to Sir Julius Caesar, Chancellor and Under Treasurer of the Exchequer and others: "Having long desired to stirr up the myndes of our people to seeke to recover the Decaye of Trade in most of our Coast Townes by erecting of Busses in all the Coasts and parts of our Kingdom in imytacon of other States our neighbors, some conceaving it fitt to procceed by a Joint Companie, some by a Trade disunited, everie Towne building and fishing for itself."

In L. 360, April 16, 1634, the Lords of the Council write to the Mayor and Aldermen: "Whereas upon former direccons from the Board some of the Marchants of that Citty with others of the Westerne Parts did come upp and attend us touching the ffishing business, (fn. 48) we at that tyme had conference with them touching the Marchants affaires in France and of the disturbance which was given to Trade there, and some meetings and debates were held betwixt the said Marchants and the Marchants of London concerning that busines and some proposicons passed amongst them for the settling thereof." They now desire them to send up again the same merchants or others to proceed in concluding this so urgent and so good a work. (fn. 49)

The New Inn.

L. 147, London, June 20, 1612.—Mathew Springham and 18 other London merchants (fn. 50) write to the Chamber interceding for "our ffreinde" Valentine Tooker, who had received notice to quit his "newe dwellinge howse the Newe Inn," and praying that in consideration of his years and services some stipend may be given him.

In L. 181, 1617, Thomas [a bailiff in 1620 and 1637; sheriff-1638] and Samuel Tooker write to the Mayor stating that their father Valentine Tooker has recovered 43l. 13s. 4d. from the Chamber by a decree in Chancery for being compelled to leave the Newe Inn, of which he had been tenant for many years, and desiring that this sum may be paid without putting him to the charge of taking out the decree under the Great Seal. Notes are added in favour of the petitioners by Richard and Symon Baskervile. (fn. 51)

In L. 183, April 3, 1618, Valentine Tooker gives a receipt to the Chamber for 6l. 16s. 0d. "in full satisfaction, recompence and payment of and for the full and uttermoste value of all those selynges, stayned or paynted clothes, shelfes and other goods, chattells &c." left by him in the New Inn.

In an endorsement to D. 84, Sept. 29, 1456, the New Inn is referred to as in the parish of St. Stephens.

In D. 1401, Nov. 29, 1527, it is identified in Moore's Calendar with a tenement in the East part of "le Egle"; see also D. 1286 April 4, 1481, and D. 1318 (Sept. 16, 1493); though on what evidence does not appear. For "le Egle" see Devonshire Association Transactions, XLIV, 490.

In D. 1447, June 12, 1545, the "newe ynne" is leased for 58 years by the Dean and Chapter to Master Thomas Sothern, Treasurer of the Cathedral.

In D. 1488, Sept. 24, 1554, it was occupied by Edward Close under Thomas Peytevyn, yeoman, as a tenant of the Dean and Chapter. See also D. 1495–1496 (Feb. 12, 1555); D. 1497 (July 7, 1555).

In D. 1638, June 25, 1586, it is leased to the Mayor &c. by the Dean and Chapter for 40 years, when it is described as "on the south side of High Street." [See Cotton, Guild, 73; Ibid. Gleanings, 129.]

In D. 1639, March 9, 1587, is a receipt for the rent with the Chapter Seal.

In D. 1714, Aug. 14, 1610, is a composition with William Hellyar, Archdeacon of Barnstaple, as to a new lease of it.

In L. 154 (undated, probably 1613) John Howell [Governor of the Merchants' Guild, 1591; Mayor, 1599] and others write to the Mayor, Geoffrey Waltham [i.e. in 1613], and the members of the Common Council concerning the rates for the Newe Inn Hall and the duties to the same Hall belonging. They say inter alia: "We have also procured from London such Rates and Orders as were then established the 11th day of July, 1612," &c.

In Act Book, VIII, f. 167b, Aug. 30, 1645, the Chamber agree that "ann estate of 21 yeres of the Newe Inn shalbe made over to the Chamberlain, Mr. John Parr, and some others for the repayment of 100l. borrowed from the Orphans monie at one yeres end with reasonable interest, vi.l. per cente."

In D. 1760, Oct. 25, 1645, the Mayor, Bailiffs and Commonalty assign to John Crewkerne [the Chamberlain] and John Parr a lease of the New Inn for 12 years.

In D. 1784, Nov. 24, 1687, the Chamber mortgages the Newe Inn for 300l.

In L. 393, London, Oct. 12, 1647, and L. 395, Bradninch, Nov. 18, 1647, are references to shops in the New Inn. [Both these lettere are printed in Cotton, Gleanings, pp. 130, 131, where the latter is wrongly dated Sept. 18, 1647.] For official decuments dated from the New Inn, see L. 429, Aug. 2, 1663; L. 527, Nov. 17, 1754.

In L. 475, Nethway, Oct. 25, 1715, J. Fownes writes (? to the Town Clerk): "In order to have the Interest of the Debt due from the Citty to Mr. Drewe (fn. 52) and himself fully answered. Wee have bin Amused with Sundry projects for giving us Satisfaction on the Sales of New Inn &c., but all those as certainly vanish into Smoak almost as soon as they are proposed. This way of proceeding has indeed worne out my patience, and itt Cannot bee thought amiss in mee if I now press for redress of this Greivance since I have bin kindly admonished by some of your owne body to take care of myself in season ere this wound is grown too big for the plaister &c.

Piracy.

In L. 156, Whitehall, March, 1612–13, is a fragment of a letter from the Lords of the Council to the towns of Lyme, Plymouth, Dartmouth, Totnes, Weymouth &c., concerning pirates from Brittany.

In D. 1722, May 24, 1613, the Chamber of Exeter have fitted out a ship called the Hopewell of Dartmouth (80 tons), of which John Chafe of Exeter is captain, to pursue pirates in accordance with a letter dated March 26, 1613 [see Cal. Dom. 1611–1618, p. 177] from Charles [Howard] Earl of Nottingham, Lord High Admiral, under his commission dated April 4, 1610. (fn. 53)

In D. 1723, 1724, July 2, Aug. 20, 1613 [with a copy among the Transcripts] is a similar commission to John Chaffe to fit the Amytie of Plymouth (100 tons), press men &c., and pursue the said pirates.

In L. 177, June 7, 1617, is a much damaged report by the Attorney General [Sir Henry Yelverton] concerning the London merchants trading with Spain and Portugal.

In L. 178 (? 1617) (much damaged) is the humble remonstrance and information of the said merchants, stating their grievances Endorsed: "The remonstrance of the Londoners unto the counsel board," docketed in an earlier hand: "Papers, letters, leases and other things belonging to the Chamber of Exeter, 1626."

In L. 179, Star Chamber, Friday, Oct. 10, 1617 (much damaged) is a copy of an order from the Lords of the Council respecting a new Charter being about to be granted to the London Merchants trading with Spain and Portugal. The Cities of Bristol and Exeter having protested against it, the Merchants of London are ordered to draw up in writing what they desire to be contained in their Charter and to submit it to such of the West Country merchants as are here attending.

In L. 180, Oct., 1617, is a copy of an Order of the Lords of the Council refusing to grant the Charter desired by the London Merchants. (fn. 54)

In D. 1750, Dec. 10, 1630, is a receipt from the Exchequer for 500l. out of 1,000l. given by the Merchants of Exeter and 500l. from the City of Exeter towards the suppression of the Algerine pirates.

In L. 357, Whitehall, May 21, 1633, the Lords of the Council inform the Chamber that a petition having been received from the Western parts [i.e. in April, 1631: Cal. S.P. Dom., 1631–33, p. 28], praying for a Commission to fit out ships, all merchants on the Coast from Southampton to Land's End to contribute to cost, "complaining of divers spoyles and outrages done unto them and on their goods by the Turkish pirates," they are requested to send up one or more persons from the several towns to appear before the board and that they may not fayle to be here by the first of June to entreat and conclude about the matter.

Observance of Lent.

L. 158, Whitehall, Dec. 10, 1613.—The Lords of the Council request the members of the chamber to set good examples in their own families and persons in regard to the strict observance of Lent, enclosing a copy of printed Rules and Orders on the subject [not preserved] i.e. not to eat flesh in Lent or on Fridays throughout the year. [For order in Council, Feb. 5, 1613, see Cal. S.P. Dom., 1611–1615, p. 169, with similar orders to Cinque Ports, March 3, 7, 10, 1614, Ibid, p. 226.]

In D. 1665 (1593–4) are 13 bonds restraining divers persons in Exeter that they "do not from henceforth kill or cause to be killed any flesh whatsoever in the tyme of restraynte of killing of fleshe."

In Act Book, VII, f. 203b, May 26, 1621, it is agreed "that warnynge shalbe geven by the Constables of every warde unto all the cookes of the Cytye not to dresse any vytualls in ther houses on any ffryday or Saturday."

Aid for the Marriage of Princess Elizabeth.

L. 161, undated (? 1612).—The Lords of the Council send instructions to the Commissioners for the levyinge and collectinge the Ayde due to his Majestie for the marriage of the Ladie Elizabeth, his eldest daughter. (fn. 55) —Signed, "G. Cant.," "T. Ellesmere Canc.," "H. Northampton," and three others.

The Charter of 1627.

L. 164. June 3, 1614.—The Chamber inform the Lord Chancellor [Thomas Egerton Baron Ellesmere] and the Earl of Northampton [Henry Howard, see page 76], Lord Privy Seal that they are about to petition for a confirmation of their Charters and the addition of some new powers [i.e. as preliminary to Charter XLV], and pray him to give countenance to their two burgesses, Mr. John Prowse and Mr. Thomas Martyn [M.P.'s for Exeter in Parliament of 12 James I from April 15 to June 7, 1614], who are deputed to manage the business.

In L. 219, London, May 18, 1622, William Prouz writes to the Chamber:—I have made searche in the Roles of the confirmacon of your Charter in Queen Maries Rainge, but can finde none neyther hathe the same ben confirmed since his Majesties Reinge. Be pleased to take into your consideracon the necessitie thereof and to redeeme tyme. I learne of a graunte latelie made by his Majestie to the students of a fellowship in Cambridge for the re-edifyinge of theire hawle and other offices in theire howse, to passe certaine marketts, faires and confirmacon of Charters which theie by the meanes of certeine courtiers have procured under the King's hand and thereupon a booke is drawen by the Kinge's Councell. Yf the Chamber shall thinke fit to undergoe the burden of the charge which this waye will passe with more secrescye, safetie and les charge then otherwise it will yf purposelie It be attempted now is your tyme, for yf It be hereafter endevoured as a particuler suite to his Majestie I know It cannot be obteyned under 1,000 markes, besides It maie receive stronge opposicon by our Bishop and his Collegiates when It shall be understood. My affections to this mocion are guided with care and providence to the safetie of your government and the ease of the charge which I do presume shalbe so providently husbandred as yf you inclyne to the mocion shall not cost the Chamber above 200l. I have fullie acquainted Mr. Recorder with this proposicon, who upon debate of my reasons and the readines of the present oportunitie to obteine the same hathe advised me by my pen to advertise this muche to your Chamber. Wee have likewyse considered of some pointes by waie of addicon to be added in the new Charter, yf It shalbe thought meete by the wisdome of the Chamber to be prosecuted, which I leave to your better consideracions.

In L. 311, [undated—Nov. 8, 1627, Cal. S.P. Dom., 1627–28, p. 426,] is a rough draft of a petition from the Chamber to the King for a renewal of the Charter. In this they desire that the Mayor, Bailiffs and Sariants may in future be chosen on the first Monday in September instead of the Monday before Michaelmas. That the Mayor may be a Justice of the Peace during his term of office and for a year afterwards, and that whereas by former Charters they might purchase lands and tenements to the yearly value of 100l. for the defraying of all burdens and charges importing the city, that amount might in future be extended.

In L. 312 (1627) is a bill of charges of Mr. Robert Tooker for charges and rekenyng made at London incurred in procuring the new Charter of the city, including:—

_Imprimis 11s. 2d. for a supper made at the Kyng's hedd to Mr. Atturney and Mr. Hynde and to Mr. Chydlie, the King's sergeants, as followeth: For a sholder of mutton and a loyne (10d.), a fatt capon (2s.), a copell of robetts (8d.), 2 woodcocks (8d.), a dosyne of larks (8d.), for a man ys labour to bere thys to King's hedd (1d.), for bredd (6d.), ale (19d.), wyne (22d.), fyre (4d.), fruyte and bysketts (12d.), for rostyng ye meat and butter (12d.),

Item paide to Mr. Atturney for his labours taken upon the book 20s., with 10s. and 6s. 8d. respectively to the two King's serjeants and 2s. for fechyng owt the copie of the Charter out of the rolls and 4d. to the Keeper of the rolls.
Item at a nother time I hadd them agayne at ye Kyngs hedd and then I delyvered similar amounts in fees to Mr. Atturney and the two King's serjeants, and this time he paid 1d. for a pott of ale and 1d. "for candell lyght," making a gross total of 4l. 0s. 10d.

Further items include 10s. to Mr. Atturney for his labours in overseyng the booke at the last time, 5s. to Thomas Bonyfault for copyng out of the booke and for his laboure at the Kyng's hedd with Mr. Atturney and the others, also 12d. to Mr. Atturney ys servaunt, for to putt his master yn remembraunce for our booke, 10s. for ye engrosyng upp ye booke yn parchmentt; 4d. to ye servaunts for the examination of it; 12d. to Mr. Chydlie ys servaunt.
Besides this Mr. Chydlie and Mr. Pollard each receive a fee of 20s. and Mr. Secretary a fee of 4l.

The Bodley Lectureship.

L. 165. May 7, 1615(?).—J. Bodley (fn. 56) sends to Mr. John Peryam (fn. 57) a copy of the will (fn. 58) of his late uncle, Mr. Lawrence Bodley (fn. 59) :—

Right loving cousen, since the tyme I perused my uncle's last will and testament I many times desired to give you a coppie of the . . . given and bequeathed unto the City of Exeter, but over ruling busines overmaistering my desires I was commaunded silence untill this present day. At the length having gotten a breathing houre I have sent you the sayd coppie taken out of the will verbatim and word for word as they be there.

Then follows the extract in which Lawrence Bodley bequeaths 400l. to the Mayor, Bailiffs and Commonalty of Exeter to purchase land which shall yield 20l. p.a. for the yearly mayntenance of a sufficient preacher within the Citye of Exeter for ever, to be chosen by the sayd Maior and his Companie of the Chamber of the sayd Citye of Exeter, and by them to be allwayes appoynted to exercise and preach a sermon weeklye on the Sabbath dayes for ever in such convenient place or places within the sayd Citye of Exeter as shall be by them procured and thought most fitt and most profitable for edificacion," the said preacher to be "allowed for his sufficiencie and conformitie according to the law of the realm by the Bishop of the diocese or the Archbishop of Canterbury." The writer adds: I found also written beneath these words touching Mr. William Martin:

Good loving cousen, Mr. William Martin, I doe desire you to be carefull amongst the Company of ye citye for the performance of this my last will for the procuring of a preacher for the citye. Thus, loving cousen, I have sent you the true coppye of the said Legacye. What is to be done herein I leave to your best judgmente, humbly beseeching the eternall God to direct all your actions that soe they may turne to his glory and your own comforte.—Your poore kinsman to be commaunded to his best power, J. Bodley.

In L. 168, Aug. 28, 1615, John Peryam informs the Mayor that he has written to Mr. Orforde [though he signs himself "William Forde" in L. 188] about the preacher, and told him that although his cousin Bodley's will only allows 20l. a year, the Chamber will make it 40l. by contribution among themselves and encloses his reply (L. 169).

In L. 169, Clysthidon, (fn. 60) Aug. 23, 1615, William Orforde writes to John Peryam recommending the preacher who brought Sir Valentine Knightley's (fn. 61) letter to him, viz., one Thomas Purselowe, for the Bodley preachership.

In Act Book, VII, f. 92b., Oct. 24, 1615, the Chamber agree that Mr. Gupwell and Mr. Coleton shall ryde to Monke Okehampton to vewe certeyne landes offered to this house to be sold for the provision of 20l. by the yeere to be given for the maintenance of a precher according to the will of Doctor Bodley.

In L. 171, Nov., 1615, John Periam, John Prouz and 14 others write to the Bishop [William Cotton] nominating Mr. John Hazard as Bodley preacher, and desire to know if any exception is taken against him by the Bishop. They add: "The reason whie wee make choice of him is because he is willinge to undertake the lecture for the yerlie stipende of Twenty Poundes, he having other Livinges amonge us in the righte of his wife, where he is desirous to live rather than elsewhere."

In Act Book, VII, f. 104, Jan. 16, 1616, the Chamber agree to nominate and appoynt Mr. John Hassard, minister, to be lecturer accordynge to the will of Doctor Bodley, and for as muche as this house hath offered or presented hym to the Lord Byshop of this dioces, with requestynge his Lordship to allow of hym according to the said will of whom the said Lord Byshop hath refused to allowe without any juste cause to the knowledge of this house. Therefore it is agreed that a letter shalbe wrytten by Mr. Mayor and the rest of the members of the house unto the Arche Bishop of Caunterbury [George Abbot] thereby shewynge the refusall of the Bishop requestynge his grace's allowance of the said Mr. Hassard to be lecturer as aforesaid. And toward his charges in folowynge the same busynes this house is contented to geve hym xli. to be payd by Mr. Recever and he to be allowed therof upon his accompte. And it is also ordered that the said Mr. Hasard yf he do obteyne his graces allowance herein shall not have, nor may not expecte to have any more or greater pension or allowance from the house than the xxli. yerely appoynted by the said will of Mr. Doctor Bodley.

In L. 174, April 5, 1616, is "the summe and substance of the conference between the Bishop of Exon and Jo. Ha: att Silverton, April 5, 1616." The report is given in the form of a dialogue between H. (i.e. Hazard) and B. (the Bishop):—

H.: My Lorde, I doubte not but your Lordship hath notice of my Lord of Canterbury's proceeding in the establishinge of Dr. Bodleye's lecture uppon me accordinge to the Cyttyes nomination. Yet I have thought fitt to come unto you humbly requestinge your Lordship's approbation also . . . as also to free my selfe from those imputations that are unjustly cast uppon me.
B.: Why, have you my lord of Canterbury's license ?—
H.: Yes.
B.: Lett me see ytt [and so he read ytt and sayde] What! Chosen two churches, yn one of which there are two preachers allreadye ?—H.: These churches are chosen as being estimated the largest and consequently the fittest to conteyne the auditorye, and besides there is noeintention by this lecture to drowne any of those exercises that are allready established, but to have a divers tyme from them.
B.: Why! is it entended that ytt shalbe on the Saboath daye?—H.: What else? How can the will of the testator be otherwise fulfilled ?
B.: The will names no daye.—H.: Yes, ytt expressly nominates the Sabaoth.
B.: I am sure ytt doth not.—H.: My lord, I know the contrary, and to decide the controversy you shall see ytt [and with that I shewed him the extracte of that parte of the will which I had about me].
B.: Why! do you thinke that those lectures shalbe abolished that are there allready ?—H.: There is no such intention (as I have said before), but the lecture maybe att an other tyme of the daye.
B.: There is never of them but are as goode as yourselfe, and why shoulde their lecture give place to this?—

H.: Your lordship mistakes me. I meane no such matter. But to leave this, do your lordship deny my lord of Canterbury's authorytye to license?
B.: I will not resist higher authorytye, but you shall never have my approbation to ytt.—H.: Will you suffer me to enioye ytt by the authorytye of my lord of Canterbury?
B.: In fayth I dare not, and besides I must see that assurance be given that the parisheners shall not be molested and kept out of theire seates.—H.: My lord, I have nothinge to do with that. If any disorder be, lett the partyes delinquent be presented and punished; but for myne owne parte I suppose that this course is not agreeable to the testator's will—for his desire was that not only the people of the same parish, but also such poore people of the Cyttye as could not come to heare att St. Peter's might be present att this, ytt beinge a publick lecture and not to be appropriated to the inhabitants of any one particular parish.
B.: Oh, are you come hither to expound the will to me ? I tell you 'tis no will. Will you take uppon you that none of the higher sort come, but only the poore?— H.: My lord, I expound not the will, though the words therein be (As is thought most fitt and most profittable for edification). But I speake from those who were well acquainted with Dr. Bodlye's entente and meaninge in ytt.
B.: I tell you I will have order taken that the parisheners may keepe theire owne places and seates, for they may sitt after some and so gett infection from them.— H.: To this I replied not, but sayde: My lord, accordinge to the 37th Canon I tendor subscription to you.
B.: That needs not. I see you have done ytt before the Bishop of Canterbury and before me when I made you minister, and I much repent that I made you minister.—H.: But it repenteth me not a whit. I pray you shew some cause of rejection of me now.
B.: You are not of my diocesse. I am not bounde to give you my reasons, neither will I.—H.: My lord, yff you have any thinge to obiecte against my doctrine formerly taught I am here ready to answer ytt to the face of any man that shall accuse me.
B.: You have preached false doctrine [but would not shew me wherein, because I know he could not]. And beside (sayth he) you have been a companion with Trasque.—H.: My lord, ytt is not so, for I can bringe good testimony that I have twise publickly in two severall sermons att Lyme confuted the erroneous fancyes of Trasque, beside my brief notes I have yett to shew and I refere you to Mr. Knowles his testimony of the truth of this the whole towne of Lyme can wittnes the same.

B.: Where are you letters demissory?—H.: My lord, I brought you an ample certificate from Lyme, where I have last made my aboade, and beside I have my lord of Canterbury's approbation.
B.: My lorde of Canterbury knowes you not but by reporte.—H.: So nether doth your lordshipp. You have no iuste exception against me.
B.: Yes, I know you too well; did not I make you minister, Sir?—H.: Yes, but uppon small knowledge both before and since.
B.: Therefore I desire letters demissory from your ordinarye the Bishop of Bristol or Bath and Wells.— H.: He is not our ordinarye, for we are a peculiar— and I have been advised that I neede them not, seeinge I was made minister by you, &c.,—but yet yf that will give you satisfaction (yf ytt be thought fitt) I can easyly procure ytt.
B.: Housoever you shall never come in by my consent.— H.: I cannot do withall. I hope I may by vertue of this licence.
B.: If you offer to preach before I see your letters demissory I will suspende you. And take this for an absolute Answere: You shall never have my approbation yf you will do ytt by virtue of my lord's licence alone, which you have procured, use your owne discretion. With that he tolde me he had donne, and so we toke our leaves.

(ffinis.) John Hassarde.
Huge Jermyn.

In Act Book, VII, f. 107b, May 2, 1616, the Chamber agree that the Citty ys (by the last will and testament of Mr. Doctor Bodley and by the reseat of the 400l. and by our letters to the Lord Archbishopp's Grace of Canterbury and by our seal to the said Doctor Bodley's executors, and by our owne Act dated the 16 of Aprill laste) Bounden to paye to Mr. Doctor Bodley's lecturer the xxli. lymited to be paid to these (sic) lecturer.

In Act Book, VII, f. 131b, May 21, 1617, it is agreed to have a Divine from the Universitie to supplie the place of Mr. Hasard in reading the Sabbathe Day's lecture founded by Mr. Doctor Bodlighe, late deceased, and for that the pension allotted by the said ffounder is so small, amounting but to xxli. per annum, yt is farther agreed that every one of the fowr twentie for augmentation thereof shall pay unto him that shalbe elected ten shillings at the least p. ann. to continue untill some other provision may be procured for the increase thereof.

In L. 188, (King James' Hospital in Charter House, (fn. 62) June 12, 1619), William Forde (see p. 93) writes to the Mayor, Thomas Martin, respecting his resignation of the Bodley Lectureship and desires to have a house to live in besides his stipend. He excuses his delay in writing, because: "We depende uppon the leasure of our Governours, who may not neglecte their weightier affaires of the whole Common Wealth for lesser matters of our private house."

In Act Book, VII, f. 174b, Oct. 31, 1619. This day an acquytance was sealed with Mrs. Mogrydge for the receyte of the 200l. geven by her late husband (fn. 63) unto the Cytye for the better mayntenaunce of the lecture ordeyned by Doctor Bodley.

In Act Book, VII, f. 185b, June 15, 1620. At this day George Tyckell, clerke, is elected to performe the exercise of the lecture founded by Doctor Bodley to hold and contynue the same for the space of ffyve or seven yeres accordynge as he shall obteyne allowance and approbacion of the lord Bishoppe of this dioces yf he lyve so long and do contynue the exercyse of the same lecture for which he is to have yerely xxxli. quarterly to be payde.

In Act Book, VII, f. 186, June 29, 1620. This day Mr. Amye and Mr. Fflay are requested by the house to ryde to the lord Byshoppe to treate with hym concernynge his allowance of Mr. Tyckelle to be lecturer for the performance of thexercysie of preachynge accordynge to the last will of Doctor Bodley.

In L. 266, Exeter College, Jan. 20, 1623—4, Laurence Bodley (fn. 64) (brother to John Bodley, L. 165) writes to the Chamber consenting to refer the matter in dispute between them concerning his uncle's will to Mr. Nicholas Ducke [Recorder, see page 77] and Mr. William Hakewill (fn. 65) (sic).

In L. 268, Westminster, April 24, 1624, John Prouse writes to the Mayor:—I knowe you do expect to heare what is done concerning Mr. Bodleye's business, and my hope was before this tyme to have sent you downe that Instrument which was promised long since to be sealed by the two brethren, (fn. 66) which they have refused to do upon some newe scruple unknowen to me, and the businesse is at a stand untill there aunsweare come up, which is expected dailye if they shall hold their first promise; then I make no doubt but to sende downe the deed, if not I will acquaint you with what Rubb this passage is stopped.

In L. 287, Exeter Colledge, Dec. 27, 1626, Mr. Lawrence Bodley writes to the Chamber: Hearing that they are "upon a new choyce of Dr. Bodley's lecturer," he wishes to call to their remembrance that the testator's "desire was to have such a preacher whose piety and zeale should hold pace with his learninge and science." How farr your late Lecturer followed him either in that practise or in ye intention of his will I dare not say, but he heares ill abroad, and so doth your election in him, when I enquire (as I doe oft) of travellers to Oxford how it stands with my uncle's lecture, ye common answare is: "Alas! it is almost come to nothinge, for either it is not performed at all or in much negligence and sometimes with scandall too through ye Lecturers deboishtnes." He trusts that the object of their next choice may be every way sufficient. [See Troupe, p. 44.]

In Act Book, VIII, f. 173b, March 21, 1646, whereas Mr. Mr. William Fuller, clerk, about two yeres since was elected (fn. 67) to preach the lecture heretofore founded by Doctor Bodlie, who hath nowe lefte this Cittie, it is this day agreede by 13 afirmative voices that the Grante made to him shall ceasse, which is intimated by Sir John Berkley, our Governor, to be the desire of the said Mr. William ffuller. Alsoe this day (fn. 68) Mr. Thomas ffuller, Bachelour of Divinitie, is by full consent elected to perform the said lecture according to the direction of the said Doctor Bodley, to have and exercise the same at the will and pleasure of the Maior and Common Counsell of the Cittie and no longer.

In Act Book, VIII, f. 178, June 17, 1646. This day Mr. Thomas ffuller is dismissed from further performance of the lecture founded by Doctor Bodley. [See Oliver, Hist., p. 118.]

In L. 427, Aug. 8, 1662, Sir William Courtenay, Sir Robert Cary and 16 other gentlemen of Devon (all of whose signatures are appended) write to the Mayor and his Brethren recommending Francis Moore, clerk and preacher in your Citty, for Dr. Bodley's Lectureship, "having a greate opinion of your forwardnes to advance the gospell of Christ by orthodoxall and conforming ministers of the Church of England."

In Act Book, X, f. 166b (Aug. 19, 1662). This day Francis Moore is elected to supplie the lecture heretofore founded by Doctor Bodlye and others in the place of Mr. fferdinando Nicholles, (fn. 69) who hath of late deserted the further performance of the same.

In Act Book, XI, f. 62b, June 13, 1667, it is this day ordered that Mr. Moore doe preach Doctor Bodleye's lecture in St. Laurence Church once every Lord's day for one moneth nowe next ensuing.

For further documents referring to the same subject, see D. 460, &c., s.v. The Rectory of Hennock, p. 275.