CP40/577: Easter term 1405

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 022d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Thomas G. and his wife Joan G., executors of the will of John H., claim that Edmund S. owes them 40s arising from the sale of woollen cloth to ES by the lat JH. TG and JG say that ES did not pay JH for this cloth, and claim damages of 100s. The cloth was namely, 3 ells of scarlet and 12 ells of kersey.

Pleading: ES says that he does not owe TG and JG the said 40s nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 034d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Damages awarded: 26s 8d
Costs: 40s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John M. claims that William S. owes him £20 per a bond. Damaged claimed at £40. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made but JM says it was made in Langbourn Ward (Lombardstreet ward) [parish not given].

Pleading: WS says that the action against him ought not hold because after the making of the said bond JM gave him a release at Kingston, Surrey, concerning all trespasses and debts.

Pleading: JM says that the release is not of his making and seeks inquiry upon the country, and WS seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey etc. Pledges are named for the defendant. The release is put into the safe-keeping of clerk William P.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as Hilary term 1406.

Postea text: postea 2 - the jury comes and says on oath that the release is not of the making of JM, and so JM is to recover the said £20 debt plus damages of 26s 8d and costs of 40s. Damages and costs total 5m. WS is seized etc.

Postea text: postea 3 - 25/10/1407 JM comes and acknowledges satisfaction concerning the aforesaid debt and damages. Therefore, WS is released from the Fleet prison and the warden quit of him.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 101

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Damages awarded: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Benedict N. claims that John S. owes him 50m on a bond. Damages claimed at 100m. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JS says that the action against him ought not continue because the said bond was made with the intention that a certain indenture between JS and BN ought to be made, with the assent of JS and BN, under the condition that if JS should make payments towards a fixed sum at certain terms then the bond would be null and void. However JS claims, after the aforesaid bond was sealed but before such an indenture could be made BN seized and carried off the aforesaid bond. Hence, JS says that the aforesaid bond is not of his making and places himself upon the country, and BN places himself likewise. Order to the sheriff etc. Pledges are named for the defendant. The bond is put into the safe keeping of clerk William P.

Postea text: postea 1 - Case forwarded because JS is in the service of the king, under Thomas of Lancaster, seneschal of England and the king's lieutenant in Ireland, from 10/05/1405 for half a year.

Postea text: postea 2 - 09/09/1405 (year 'septimo', scribal error) BN's attorney comes and asks that JS be made to come and answer the suit against him at the quindene of Martinmas 1405.

Postea text: postea 3 - the sheriff returns that JS has nothing in his bailiwick and so the jury between parties is respited as far as Hilary term 1406.

Postea text: postea 4 - JS does not come and so is in default. The jury does not come and so the case is respited as far as the octave of the Purification 1406, unless first heard before justice William B. at the assize at St. Martin le Grand on 03/02/1406.

Postea text: postea 5 - 12/02/1406 the bond is given to justice William H. for consideration by a jury and clerk WP is quit.

Postea text: postea 6 - Jury placed in respite to quindene of Easter, unless first heard before justice WH on 18/02/1406 at the assize at St Martin le Grand.

Postea text: postea 7 - 18/02/1406 the case is heard before Justice WH and associate justice John C. at the assize at St. Martin le Grand. The jury finds that the bond is of the JS's making and assesses damages at 100s. BN is to recover the said debt and damages. JS is in mercy.

Postea text: postea 8- 04/05/1406 the bond is returned to clerk WP and justice WH is quit.

Postea text: postea 9 - 25/06/1406 JS is committed to the Fleet prison.

Postea text: postea 10 - 13/10/1406 BN acknowledges satisfaction of the said debt and damages, and JS is quit. JS makes fine with the king in 6s 8d, concerning which he finds pledges William G. and Richard W. Upon this the bond is delivered to John V., attorney of BN.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 102d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William P. claims that John H. owes him £13 6s 8d on a £13 6s 4d bond payable at London. Damages claimed at £40. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JH asks that the bond and its endorsements be read out in the court. The bond says that if JH should pay to WP £13 6s 4d at Easter next following (19/04/1405) then the bond shall be null and void. JH says that he paid WP this £13 6s 4d as per the endorsements on the bond.

Pleading: WP says that JH did not pay him the said money and seeks inquiry upon the country, and JH seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London etc. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 106d

Term: Easter 1405
County: Kent
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Detention of goods; Safe keeping

Pleading: Thomas J. claims that John S. detains from him a bond showing that TJ is held to James D. and William L. in £4 payable at certain terms. TJ says that this bond was given to JS at Rochester, Kent, for safe keeping, but that JS now refuses to return it. Damages claimed at 20m.

Pleading: JS brings the bond and says he is ready to deliver it with the court's decision. JS says that the aforesaid bond was given to him jointly by TJ, James D., and WL, only to be returned to TJ, or James D. and WL, under certain conditions. JS says that he does not know, on the part of JD and WL, if those conditions have been met. Therefore, the sheriff of Kent is ordered to make all parties involved come to this court in Trinity term 1405.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff returns that the writ reached him too late, and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - plaintiff JS and defendant TJ come but Jacob D. and WL do not. And, the sheriff returns that it was made known to James D. and WL that they should come to this day, by John D., William W., Thomas T., and John W. Therefore, the decision is that TJ is to have delivery of the said bond, which he has. JS is quit.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 108

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John S. and William M., administrators of the goods and chattels of late treasurer of Richard II's household John C., claim that Thomas G. owes them £89 on a bond in which TG obliged himself to JC and the late king Richard II. The bond was payable to JC or the late king Richard II, whom JC outlived. The bond was not paid and damages are claimed at 100m. The bond is shown in court as well as letters showing that the plaintiffs are the administrators of JC.

Pleading: TG comes and defends. And because the justices wish to be advised as to whether or not the action of debt applies to the present lord king as well as the administrators, because it was made both to the late Richard II and the late JC, day is given in Trinity term 1405. Pledges are named for the defendant, namely, Robert S., Elias F., Bartholomew D., and Edward B.

Postea text: postea 1 - The justices still wish to be advised, day given the parties as in Michaelmas term 1405. New pledges are named for the defendant, namely EF, John E., Nicholas C, and Robert B.

Postea text: postea 2 - day is given between the parties in Hilary term 1406 so that the justices may be advised.

Postea text: postea 3 - the administrators do not come and so they and their pledges are in mercy. TG is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 108d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John S. and William M., administrators of the goods and chattels of John C., late treasurer of Richard II's household, claim that Elias F. owes them £89 on a bond in which EF obligated himself to JC and the late king Richard II. The bond was payable to JC or the late king Richard II, whom JC outlived. The bond was not paid and damages are claimed at 100m. The bond is shown in court as well as letters showing that the plaintiffs are the administrators of JC.

Pleading: EF comes and defends. And because this justices wish to be advised as to whether or not the action of debt applies to the present lord king as well as the administrators, because it was made as much to the late Richard II as to the late JC, day is given in Trinity term 1405. Pledges named for the defendant, namely, Thomas G., Robert S., Bartholomew D., and Edward B.

Postea text: postea 1 - justices still wish to be advised etc. Day is given between the parties in Michaelmas term 1405. New pledges are named for the defendant, namely TG, John E., Nicholas C, and Robert B.

Postea text: postea 2 - day is given between the parties in Hilary term 1406 so that the justices may be advised.

Postea text: postea 3 - the administrators do not come so they and pledges are in mercy. EF is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 116d

Term: Easter 1405
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: John E. claims that Baldwin C. owes him 40s arising from the sale of hay which BC bought from JE at Stepney, Middlesex, but did not pay for. Damages claimed a 100s.

Pleading: BC says that he does not owe JE the said 40s nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named as well as pledges for future appearance.

Postea text: postea 1 - JE does not come and so he and his pledges of the prosecution are in mercy. BC is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 193d

Term: Easter 1405
County: Surrey
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: 200m
Damages awarded: 100s
Case type: Detention of goods; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Robert Savage and his wife Joan amerced for many defaults. John atte Strete states that RS and Joan detain from him a chest containing charters and other documents namely: one charter by which a certain Robert Witherle and Walter Multon granted to Roger atte Strete and his wife Joan, and the heirs of Roger, two messuages, 40 acres of land, 3 acres of meadow, 2 acres of pasture, and 5s 4d rents with appurtenances in Wandsworth, Surrey; another charter by which a certain William Cook and his wife Matilda granted to Roger atte Strete and his heirs 4 acres of land with appurtenances in Wandsworth; a foot of fine by which Roger atte Strete and his wife Joan granted to RW and WM and the heirs of WM all their lands and tenements in Wandsworth; another document by which Emma Rodyng released to Roger atte Strete and his heirs in perpetuity all rights that she had in all his lands and tenements in Wandsworth; another document by which John Swelle released to Roger atte Strete and his heirs all rights and claims which he has in all his lands and tenements in Wandsworth; and also other documents, namely a court roll and rental which came into the possession and custody of Joan after the death of Roger atte Strete. She later married Robert Savage, and thus long before the date of the original writ the chest came into the possession of Robert and Joan in Wandsworth. Since Roger atte Strete died without heirs of his body, and since Robert and Joan alienated the tenement and rents mentioned in the first charter, in which they only had an interest for the life of Joan, to Robert FitzRobert, William Sevenok, and Thomas Prat, they have forfeited their rights in that property, and hence the chest and charters pertain to the plaintiff, as brother and next heir of Roger. However, Robert and Joan have not delivered them, to his damage of 200m.

Pleading: Robert and Joan Savage state that they do not detain the chest or any of the charters except the one which records that RW and WM granted to Roger atte Strete and his wife Joan and the heirs of Roger two messuages, 40 acres of land, 3 acres of meadow, 2 acres of pasture, and 5s 4d rents with appurtenances in Wandsworth. Parties on country. Concerning this remaining charter, Robert and Joan state that RW and WM granted the said tenement and rents to Roger and Joan, and the heirs of Joan in perpetuity, and thus the charter pertains to them as of right.

Pleading: John atte Strete states that RW and WM enfeoffed the said properties to Roger and Joan and the heirs of Roger, not to the heirs of Joan. Enquiry on country, jury here at quindene of Trinity.

Postea text: Sheriff returns that he has informed Robert atte Hethe, bailiff of the liberty of the abbot of Westminster in Wandsworth, who has done nothing. Sheriff of Surrey to have jury here at octave of Michaelmas, notwithstanding the liberty.

Postea text: Process continued, jury in respite to this day, the octave of St John the Baptist 1406. Parties come, jury says that Robert and Joan do detain the said chest and charters as claimed, except the charter of RW and WM above. They also say that RW and WM enfeoffed this property to Roger and Joan and the heirs of Roger, as the plaintiff claimed, and not to the heirs of Joan, as the defendants claimed. Damages assigned to John atte Strete at 10m if he has delivery of the chest and charters, and at £100 if he does not have delivery. If he does not have delivery of the other charter, or the chest and other documents, then damages assigned at 100m, and if he has delivery of the charter but not the chest and other documents, then damages assigned at 50m. John atte Strete thus seeks judgment on this verdict, and so order that JS have delivery of the chest and the other charters, or damages of 50m if he does not have delivery. Robert and Joan amerced. Concerning the other charter, it seems to the court that the plea is not determined, and execution of the damages cannot be made until this is determined. Order to Robert and Joan that they make further answer concerning this charter. They thus say that John atte Strete ought not have his action, as RW and WM granted this property to Roger and Joan and the heirs of Joan in perpetuity, and thus the charter pertains to them and not the plaintiff, and they do not detain any charter by which RW and WM granted property to Roger and Joan and the heirs of Roger, as claimed. JS repeats that Roger and Joan detain the charter granting the property to Roger and Joan and the heirs of Roger. Enquiry by country, jury here at octave of Michaelmas 1406.

Postea text: JS comes in person, says that Robert Savage is dead, confirmed by the attorney of Robert and Joan, so no further process. JS therefore seeks a writ to Joan Savage and John Herde, vicar of Wandsworth, executors of Robert, to warn them to be here to show reason why JS should not have delivery of the chest or damages, and also to have a jury here regarding the other charter, etc. This is granted, returnable at the quindene of Martinmas. On that day, JS comes in person, executors by attorney John Bray, and the sheriff sends that he sent the writ to the bailiff of the abbot of Westminster in Wandsworth, Robert Hethe, and hence he could make no execution in his bailiwick outside the liberty, as appears in a panel attached to the same writ, and the bailiff replied that he informed the executors by Thomas Hunte, Richard FitzPeres, John Stake and Roger Tabelere. But since it is not mentioned in the return that the bailiff has full return and execution of all writs within the liberty, the sheriff, Philip Seyntcler, is amerced for insufficient return, assessed by the justices at 6s 8d. Order that the executors be forewarned to be here at the octave of the Purification 1407, and to have the jurors here at the same term.

Postea text: JS comes in person, executors by attorney, sheriff sends that he ordered Robert Hethe to make execution of the writs, who answered that he informed the executors, by Thomas Olyve, John Mauncell, John Colman and Walter Smyth. 12 jurors were empanelled and sworn, the names of their mainpernors appearing in the estreats of the bench for this Hilary term. JS seeks execution against the executors, etc. Day is given a the quindene of Easter 1407. Sheriff to distrain jurors to be here at that term.

Postea text: Sheriff did not send writ, sicut prius to octave of Trinity. JS also seeks execution etc. The executors state that JS ought not have execution, as that chest never came into the hands of the executors after the death of Robert Savage. They also cannot pay the 50m, as on the day of the original writ of scire facias, they had made full administration of all the goods and chattels formerly of Robert Savage. JS states that the chest did come into the hands of the executors, in Wandsworth, after the death of Robert Savage, and also that on the day of his original writ of scire facias, namely 9 October 1406, they had various goods and chattels formerly of Robert Savage still in their hands sufficient to pay this 50m, namely at Wandsworth and elsewhere in Surrey. Enquiry by country, sheriff to have jury of Wandsworth here at the same term (octave of Trinity 1407).

Postea text: JS came in person, jury say that JS suffered damage of 100s relating to the detention of the chest, provided the chest was delivered to him. JS thus seeks execution of this from Joan, against whom judgment was given together with her late husband. Concerning the writ of scire facias, JS does not prosecute his writ, so the executors are quit.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 197d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: John D. claims that Richard S. owes him £42 as determined by a reckoning of account held between them before auditors John G. and John H. JD says that this debt arose from the sale of diverse victuals to RS, namely stockfish, saltfish, and salmon prior to the said reckoning of account. Damages are claimed at £100.

Pleading: RS comes and defends in his own person etc. And upon this day is given between the parties in Trinity term 1405.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 199

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Assault

Pleading: William Spore claims that William Smyth and John Ludby, together with Walter Haynes assaulted him with force and arms in London, parish of St Andrew Holborn, ward of Farringdon Without. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: William Smiyth and JL deny force and arms, and place themselves upon the country, and William Spore puts himself likewise. Further, JL says that on the same day as the supposed trespass William Spore in fact assaulted JL at London, parish of St Nicholas Shambles, ward of Farringdon Within and so JL defended himself.

Pleading: William Spore reiterated his claim that it was he who was assaulted and puts himself upon the country, and the defendants put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff to make view of the parish of St Andrew Holborn, ward of Farringdon Without, etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 200

Term: Easter 1405
County: Essex
Writ type: Disseisin
Case type: Embracery; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Jury of twenty-four knights of the view of Orsett, Essex, come to recognise whether Thomas P. unjustly disseised William M. and his wife Joan M. of their free tenement in Orsett, as TP has complained that the jury of the assize of novel disseisin lately summoned before justice William H. and his fellow justices to the assize at Stratford Langthorne (Essex) to consider the case between WM and JM on one part, and TP with William L., John W., William B., and William A. on the other part, made false oath. Before this court come plaintiff TP by his attorney Thomas C., WM with his wife JM in person, and five of the jurors from the aforesaid assize of Stratford Langthorne in person, namely William G, John H., Henry H., John B., and Thomas P. However seven of the jurors from the aforesaid assize do not come, namely William Gristede, William Andrew, John Salman senior, Thomas Goldman, John Herde, John Egiote, and John Orpede. And, the sheriff returns that John Girstede, William Andrew, John Salman senior, Thomas Goldman, John Herde, and John Egiote were attached and made aware etc. Therefore the sheriff is to distrain these men to be here in Trinity term 1405 to hear the aforesaid jury of 12 knights. The sheriff also returns that John Orpede is dead. TP cannot deny this, so nothing more is to be done concerning JO.

Pleading: And upon this WM and JM, as well as the five jurors present, wish to hear the writs and also to hear the record whence the same writs have emanated. These are read in these words: Plea at the assize held at Chelmsford, Essex, made before justices William Hankford and Robert Hill on 8 June 1403 to decide if Thomas Payn, William Love, John Wade, William Baker and William Ardale unjustly disseised William Marrow and his wife Joan of one messuage, 140 acres of land, 10 acres of meadow, and 10s rents with appurtenances at Orsett, Essex. On this occasion it was placed upon the country that supposedly a certain John Payn was seised of the said property, and demised it to a certain Margaret. This Margaret then died without heirs of her body and so the property supposedly passed to her maternal uncle, Thomas Payn, at which time Joan Marowe claimed the same property by right of being Margaret's cousin, Joan being the daughter of Margaret's aunt Cecily. Joan Marowe then made entry into the property and the above said William Love was removed, as well as Thomas Payn, from the aforesaid tenement and land etc. William Marowe and Joan Marowe then argued that in fact a certain John Childe, Thomas Bret, Stephen Waryn, and Thomas Barbour were originally seised of the aforesaid property and granted it directly to William and Joan Marowe for a life term, and they thereafter were married and took possession of the property until Thomas Payn and others named in the writ unjustly disseised them of it. In response Thomas Payn protested that John Childe, Thomas Bret, Stephen Waryn, and Thomas Barbour (from whom William and Joan Marowe claim to have acquired the property) in fact had no claim to the aforesaid property. In reply William and Joan Marowe reiterated their claim that they received the property from the said men and sought inquiry upon the country, and Thomas Payn sought likewise. It was then decided that the case would be heard by the assize at Stratford Langthorne on 3 December 1403. The case was later moved to 5 December 1403, when a jury came to the assize at Stratford Langthorne and said on oath that the aforesaid Margaret was not seised of the property in question at the time of her death, and that William and Joan Marowe were in fact seised of the said property until such time as Thomas Payn, and Thomas Payn alone, disseised them. Hence William and Joan Marowe are awarded damages of 8m per year for the three years which they have been disseised (totalling 24m), plus 100s for costs. Total damages and costs to be recovered were £21. However, as William and Joan Marow had brought their writ against not just Thomas Payn, but also William Love, John Wade, William Baker and William Ardale, William and Joan Marowe are also amerced for false claim against these other men. This account of the previous judgement is heard by all parties present in the present case.

Pleading: Thomas Payn says that the jurors named made false oath when they returned that the said Margaret did not die seised of the property in question, and that they falsely said that William and Joan Marowe were seised of the said property, and hence falsely assigned costs and damages to be recovered by William and Joan Marowe. Thomas Payn says he is prepared to verify this by a jury of twenty-four knights etc.

Pleading: William and Joan Marowe, as well as those jurors who are present (namely William Gobyon, John Herbeiour, Henry Humfrey, John Baret, and Thomas Porter) say that they did not give their judgement under false oath etc. and place themselves upon the said jury of twenty-four men. Day is given between the parties in Trinity term 1405, and the sheriff of Essex is to make the jury of twenty-four come as well as the defendants (including the former jurors) etc.

Postea text: postea 1 - all previous parties come as well as the six living jurors who were not previously present (namely William Gristede, William Andrew, John Salman, Thomas Goldman, and Thomas Herde). These latter jurors say that they did not give false oath and put themselves on the aforesaid jury of twenty-four, and Thomas Payn puts himself likewise. Day given between the parties at quindene of Michaelmas 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - Thomas Payn comes, as does William and Joan Marowe, and two of the previous jurors (namely William Gobyon and Thomas Porter). However, nine of the previous jurors do not come and are in default (namely John Herbeiour, Henry Humfrey, John Baret, William Gristede, William Andrew, John Salman, Thomas Goldman, John Herde, and John Egiote). The present jury do not come and so day is given between the parties on the morrow of Martinmas 1405.

Postea text: postea 3 - to which day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury is respited as far as the quindene of Hilary, nisi prius the case is heard before justices William Rikhill and William Hankeford at the assize at Chelmsford, Essex, on the morrow of Hilary 1406.

Postea text: postea 4 - case heard before justices William Rikhill and William Hankeford at the assize at Chelmsford, Essex, on 14/01/1406, on which day came Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. Of the jury of twenty-four knights, some are found to be suspicious, and are removed, so the case is returned to Common Pleas. Jury in respite to Easter three weeks.

Postea text: postea 5 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to quindene of Trinity 1406.

Postea text: postea 6 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to quindene of Michaelmas 1406.

Postea text: postea 7 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to the morrow of Martinmas 1406.

Postea text: postea 8 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to the quindene of Hilary 1407, nisi prius they come before WR and WH, justices, at Chelmesford on the morrow of Hilary.

Postea text: postea 9 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. Record sent of assize, but jury suspicious and removed. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to Easter three weeks 1407.

Postea text: postea 10 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to quindene of Trinity 1407.

Postea text: postea 11 - to this day come Thomas Payn, William and Joan Marowe, and previous jurors William Gobyon and Thomas Porter. The jury does not come and so the case is respited to the quindene of Michaelmas 1407.

Postea text: [Various further entries in like terms, to the morrow of Martinmas 1407, the quindene of Hilary 1408, Easter three weeks 1408, the quindene of Trinity 1408 (nisi prius they come to the assize at Chelmsford on the Friday in the week of Pentecost), and the quindene of Michaelmas 1408.]

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 231d

Term: Easter 1405
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Richard K. claims that John A. owes him 40s per a bond. Damages are claimed at 40s. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made but RK claims it was made at Westminster, Middlesex.

Pleading: JA comes and asks that the bond and it's endorsements be read in the court. It says that if JA should pay to RK 40d in Christmas 1402 (25/12/1402), then 6s 8d in Easter 1403 (15/04/1403), and then 5s in the Nativity of St John the Baptist 1403 (24/06/1403) that the said bond would be null and void. It also says that if JA should default then the bond should take effect etc. JA says that he made these payments to RK accordingly at London, at St Martin le Grand, Ward of Farringdon within.

Pleading: RK says that JA did not make the 5s payment due in the Nativity of St John the Baptist 1403 (24/06/1403) and seeks inquiry upon the country, and JA seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London etc. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 282

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: John W. claims that John S. owes him 100s arising from the sale of linen cloth and thread of Cologne (Colonia) of various colours which JS bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: JS says that he does not owe JW the said 100s nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named as well as pledges for future appearance.

Postea text: 1 postea - JW does not come and so he and his pledges of the prosecution are in mercy.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 293

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John B. claims hat Robert N. owes him £10 per a bond. Damages claimed at £10. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made but JB says it was made at London etc.

Pleading: RN says that the bond is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and JB puts himself likewise. The bond is put into the safe keeping of clerk William P.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 293

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: £60
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: John H. and Thomas S. claim that Thomas D. has not rendered to them reasonable account concerning the time when he was receiver of their monies in London, during which time he received on their behalf £65 from the hands of a certain John A. Damages are claimed at £60.

Pleading: TD says that he was not set forth as receiver of monies for JH and TS and puts himself upon the country, and JH with TD put themselves likewise.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 293d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond); Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 13s 4d
Costs: 66s 8d
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment; Loan

Pleading: Thomas W. claims that Edmund M. owes him £25 2s per a £16 6s bond and an £8 16s loan. Damages claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made but TW says it was made at the same place as the loan (parish of St Mary Somerset, Queenhithe Ward).

Pleading: TW says that EM was a free man at the time of the making of the £16 6s bond and seeks inquiry upon the country, and EM seeks likewise.

Pleading: EM says, concerning the £16 6s bond, that at the time of its making he was imprisoned by EM, and others of his coven, at London.

Pleading: EM says concerning the £8 16s loan that he does not owe EM these nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named as well as pledges for future appearance.

Postea text: postea 1 - EM comes and perfects his law concerning the supposed £8 16s loan, and so TW is in mercy for false claim. Concerning the £16 6s bond, the jury does not come and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - EM does not come and so is in default (concerning the £16 6s bond). But, as the jury is not present, the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term in one month 1405 unless first heard before justice John M. at the assize of St Martin le Grand on 27/10/1403.

Postea text: postea 3 - case heard before justice JM and associate justice Peter C. at the assize of St Martin le Grand on 27/10/1403. Jury says on oath that EM made the said bond of his own free will. The jury says that TW is to receive 13s 4d damages, beyond his court costs, for the detention of this money plus 26s 8d in compensation for his court costs. Upon this TW comes and asks the justices to increase his damages for costs, and it is decided that TW is to recover the 40s as assessed by the jury plus another 40s.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 302d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Assault; Sale of goods; Taking of goods

Pleading: William B. claims that William U. assaulted him with force and arms at London. Damages claimed at £40.

Pleading: WU comes in his own person and defends. [here ends the entry]

Pleading: [here and below drawn from CP40/577 rot.349] WU says that he is innocent of coming with force and arms and puts himself upon the country, and WB puts himself likewise. Concerning the charge of assault, WU says that in the same place and on the same day as the supposed trespass he sold to WB four salted herrings 1d, but that WB took two herrings in addition to the four he had paid for. WU thence unawares, WB fled with the said herrings as far as the parish of St Martin Orgar, Bridge ward. WU, then (becoming) aware (of the taking of the additional herrings) chased WB to the aforesaid parish and ward where he seized the wrongly taken fish and in seizing the fish to him wrestled (palastrisavit) with WB. At this point, WU claims that it was WB who assaulted him and that if he did any harm to WB is was in defence of his own person.

Pleading: WB reiterated his claim that it was he who was assaulted and seeks inquiry upon the country, and WU seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff etc. Noted that WU puts in his place concerning this case a certain Robert S.

Case notes: further information taken from CP40/577 rot.349

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 304

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Arbitration; Bond

Pleading: Isabel H. claims that Walter B. owes her £10 on a bond. Damages are claimed at 20m. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: WB comes and asks that the bond and its endorsements be read aloud in the court. It says that if WB should undertake arbitration before two good and honest men on his behalf, and two good and honest men on IH's behalf, and that WB should make satisfaction concerning repairs and rents pertaining to a tenement in Elsworth (Cambridgeshire) with appurtenances, which same tenement IH entered as lawful heir, before the feast of the Nativity of St John the Baptist 1404, then the bond shall be null and void. However, if WB should not undertake arbitration then it should hold. Upon this day is given, without essoin, between the parties in the present state as much to IH as to WB.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 341

Term: Easter 1405
County: Dorset
Writ type: Other
Damages claimed: £300
Damages awarded: 20s
Case type: Usurpation / abuse of rights

Pleading: Thomas L. and William S. complain of Ivo F. and Thomas W. in a plea that they ought to permit them to present someone sufficient to the vacant parsonage of the church of Lydlinch, Dorset. TL and WS claim that IF was lately seised of the manor of Lydlinch, to which the advowson of the church of Lydlinch is appended. To that church IF presented a certain William W., who was admitted during the reign of Richard II. IF then, also during the reign of Richard II, on 27 November 1386, granted a certain William R. the right to make the next presentation to the church of Lydlinch without the disturbance or impediment of IF. WR then, also during the reign of Richard II, on 13 March 1391, by right of this charter, gave and granted to TL, WS, and the late Thomas S. the same right of next presentation to the church of Lydlinch, without disturbance or impediment by IF or WR. WW, parson of Lydlinch, then died leaving the parsonage vacant. At this point IF and TW moved to unjustly impede WL and WS from appointing a new parson. Damages are claimed at £300. The charter of IF granting right of first presentation to WR (and the same document amended to re-grant this right to TL and WS) is offered before the court.

Pleading: IF and TW come and say that they are not able to deny the validity of the plaintiffs' accusation, nor the validity of the charter. Therefore the decision is that TL and WS are to have damages of 20s, and they are to have a writ to the bishop of the diocese that they are to have presentation to the church notwithstanding the complaint of IF and TW. IF and TW are in mercy. Upon this TL and WS release the damages.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 349

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John B. claims that John C. owes him £20 as the unpaid residue of a £40 bond. Damages claimed at 100s. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond does not say where it was made, but JB says it was mad at London etc.

Pleading: JC asks the bond and its endorsements be read out in court. It says that if JC should pay to JB £10 in Michaelmas 1389 and £10 in Christmas 1398 then the bond shall be null and void. JC says that he paid JB this £20 at Bampton, Oxfordshire, and so the action against him ought not continue.

Pleading: JB says that JC did not make the £10 payment in Michaelmas 1398 and is prepared to verify this.

Pleading: JC says that he did make the said £10 payment of Michaelmas 1398 and puts himself upon the country, and JB puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Oxfordshire etc. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: postea 1 - JC does not come and so is in default. The jury is not present so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff does not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Hilary term 1405.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 371

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond); Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond; Sale of goods

Pleading: William M. claims that Alexander W. owes him £16 7s 2d arising from a bond of £12 7s 2d and the sale of 1 cask of red wine to AW worth £4. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made but WM says it was made at London etc.

Pleading: AW says that the aforesaid £12 7s 2d bond is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and WM puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff to bring a jury in Trinity term in 15 days etc. Concerning the remaining £4, AW says that he does not owe WM this nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named as well as pledges for future appearance. The bond is placed in the safe keeping of William P.

Postea text: postea 1 - AW comes and makes his law concerning the aforesaid debt of £4. WM is to having nothing per his writ (concerning this £4) and in mercy for false claim. Concerning the £12 7s 2d bond there is a continuance between the parties as far as Easter term 1406.

Postea text: postea 2 - AM presents to the court a writ of supersedeas from the king addressed to justice William T. and his fellow justices given 03/05/1406 at Westminster and witnessed by John C.. This writ of supersedeas orders the case to be stopped in Common Pleas, saying that creditors of AW must pursue him in the Exchequer if they wish to proceed. It says that AW's creditors ought to be satisfied in order, and AW owes 27m 6s 8d of issues from his bailiwick of Cambridge at the exchequer to be raised and paid by the morrow of the close of Easter. Hence AW does not finish (his writ...[damaged]) and so he and his pledges of the prosecution are in mercy. The bond is returned to John N., attorney of WM, and WP is quit of it.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 371d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Robert M. and Edith G. (widow of William G.) - executors of the will of William G. - claim that Roger K. - executor of he will of John C. - owes them £16 per a bond which was made between late William G. and the late John C. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond does not say where it was made, but RK say it was made at London etc.

Pleading: RM and EG claim that the suit against them ought not continue because a certain John Williamservant Godwyn, servant of the late WG., made administration of WG's goods at Bristol as executor of the late WG.

Pleading: JC says that John Williamservant Godwyn did not act as administrator of the goods of WG unless he was acting as servant to the defendants RM and EG at the time and puts himself upon the county, and RM with EG put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of Bristol etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 371d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: John C. claims that John A. owes him 40s arising from the sale of cloth which JA bought but did not pay for. The cloth was namely, 4 yards of green cloth and 60 ells of linen cloth. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: JA says that he does not owe JC these nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and JC puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff etc.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 377

Term: Easter 1405
County: Norfolk
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Arbitration; Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: Thomas M. claims that Thomas D. should render to him reasonable account concerning the time when TD acted as TM's receiver of monies, namely for one month starting 07/07/1403. During this time TD received on behalf of TM at Stoke Ferry, Norfolk, 40s per the hands of Richard Sutton. Damages claimed at 40s.

Pleading: TD says that TM ought not continue the action against him because after the said time during which he acted as TM's receiver he and TM submitted to arbitration at London before arbitrators John S. and Thomas S. on the part of TD, and arbitrators Richard Slade and John H. on the part of TM. TD says that these arbitrators decided that in resolution of all disputes between them, including the receipt of the said 40s, TD ought to pay to TM one quart of wine. TD says that he gave this wine to TM that same day.

Pleading: TM says that there was not any such arbitration as TD claims and seeks inquiry upon the country (non fuit aliquod tale arbitrum). Order to the sheriff of London etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 386

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John O. claims that William F. and his wife Alice F., administrators of the goods and chattels of Thomas O. (died intestate), owe him £24 12s 8d per a bond which was made between JO and TO during his lifetime. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made, but JO says it was made at London [parish and ward left blank].

Pleading: [no counterplea entered]

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 386

Term: Easter 1405
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: Walter B. claims that Alexander F. and Agnes F. owe him 8m 6s 8d arrears and clear debt as determined by a reckoning of the account between them concerning diverse monies and receipts Agnes F. had from WB prior to her marriage to Alexander F. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: Alexander F. and Agnes F. say that they do not owe WB the said 8m 6s 8d nor any other monies and offer their law. Pledges of law are named.

Postea text: 1 postea - Alexander F. and Agnes F. come but WB does not, and so WB and his pledges of the prosecution are in mercy. The defendants are without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 401d

Term: Easter 1405
County: Sussex
Writ type: Disseisin
Case type: Dower; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Phillipa P., who was the wife of Roert P., elsewhere in the court of the king sought a third part of the manor of Bourne, Sussex, as her dower. TD was to be here to respond to PP concerning that plea in Hilary term (1405) then next following, but defaulted, so that the sheriff of Sussex then took a third part of that manor into the hands of the king. TD was then summoned to be at the count in the Easter term next following (1405) to respond as much to PP, concerning the principal plea, as (to the court) concerning his default. In this manner come PP and TD before the present court and seeks seisin of the said third part of the manor of Bourn, Sussex, in consequence of TD's default in Michaelmas term 1405.

Pleading: TD says that he was never summoned in Hilary term 1405 and so should not be in default and the he is willing to defend against PP and her suit. It is decided that TD make his law concerning whether or not he was summoned to Hilary term 1405, in Trinity term 1405. Pledges of law are named.

Postea text: postea 1 - TD makes essoin and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - PP does not come and so is in default. PP and he pledges of the prosecution are in mercy. TD is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 412

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Richard E. claims that Robert P. owes him 40s arising from the sale of one piece of worsted motley which RP bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: RP comes and defends. And upon this day is given between the parties in Michaelmas term 1405. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 418

Term: Easter 1405
County: Essex
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Detention of goods; Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: Walter A. claims that he lately held three parts of a ship called 'The Marie of London', of which Andrew C. held a quarter part, but that AC detained this ship against his will at Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, for three years. WA claims that as a result of this detention the ship came to rot, to WA's damage of £20.

Pleading: AC says that he did not detain the aforesaid ship and puts himself upon the country, and WA puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Essex etc.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as the octave of Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff of Essex returns that Richard F., bailiff of the hundred of Rochford (Essex), gave to him none in response (nullus sibi inde dedit respon'). The jury is placed in respite as far as the morrow of All Souls 1405 (3/11/1405, i.e. later in Michaelmas term). It is ordered that the sheriff of |Essex is not to be omitted from the liberty.

Postea text: postea 3 - continuance between the parties as far as the octave of Hilary term 1406. The jury is placed in respite.

Postea text: postea 4 - AC did not come and so is in default. The jury is placed in respite as far as Easter term 1406 because they did not come. The sheriff is not to be omitted from the liberty.

Postea text: postea 5 - continuance between the parties as far as Trinity term 1406.

Postea text: postea 6 - the jury comes and says on oath that AC did not detain the said ship and so WA is to have nothing per his writ and is in mercy for false claim.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 418

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: Walter A. claims that Andrew C. should render to him reasonable account concerning the time when he was WA's bailiff and receiver of monies at in London. WA claims that he set forth AC as his bailiff of a certain house in the parish of St Nicholas Cole Abbey, Queenhithe ward, from Christmas 1396 (25 Dec.) as far as Michaelmas 1397 (29 Sept.), during which time AC had administration of 33 barrels of white wine belonging to WA and received £21 on behalf of WA. WA claims that AC is yet to render reasonable account. Damages claimed at 100m.

Pleading: AC says that the action against him ought not continue because he already rendered account concerning this period before auditors John S. and John G. at Leigh-on-Sea Essex.

Pleading: WA says that Ac did not undertake an accounting before the said auditors and seeks inquiry upon the country, and AC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Essex etc. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: postea 1 - the jury is respited as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff of Essex returns that he delivered the writ to Richard F., bailiff of the hundred of Rochford (Essex) but had no response. The jury is respited until later in Michaelmas term and the sheriff of Essex is not to omit the said liberty.

Postea text: postea 3 - continuance between the e parties as far as Hilary term 1406.

Postea text: postea 4 - AC does not come and so is in default. The jury does not come and so the case is respited as far as Easter term 1406.

Postea text: postea 5 - continuance between the parties as far as Trinity term 1406 for a jury to be places etc.

Postea text: postea 6 - Jury comes and says that AC did indeed render account before the said auditors as he claims, and so AC is without day and WA is in mercy for false claim.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 418d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Henry C. claims that John R. owes him £4 6s 8d arising from the sale of 2 pipes of red wine which JR bought but did not pay for. Damages claimed a £20.

Pleading: JR says that he does not owe HC the said £4 6s 8d nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and HC puts himself likewise. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: 4 posteas - all say that the sheriff did not sent the writ, forwarding the case as far as Michaelmas 1406.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 456

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Robert C. claims that Edmund W. owes him £8 arising from the sale of one cask of woad to EW's servant Richard N. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: EW says that he does not owe RC the said £8 nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named. Upon this it is ordered to Thomas S., attorney of defendant EW, that he is to have his client (master) EW were at the next term to make his law etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 459

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John L. claims that John M and his wife Agnes M., administrators of the goods and chattels of the late John G. (died intestate), owe him £30 per a bond made between JL and the late JG. JL claims damages of £20. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JM and AM say that the late JG, during his lifetime, gave all of his goods and chattels to Grevase W., John L., William L., and Wiliam F. Agnes, as servant of these same men, then administered the goods and chattels of the late JG, herself then being a woman alone. AM then later married JM and they administered what goods were of JG at the time of his death.

Pleading: JL says that AM, as a woman alone, administered the goods and chattels of JG at Stamford, Lincolnshire at the time of JG's death, and seeks inquiry upon the country. JM with Am seek inquiry likewise. Order to the sheriff of Lincolnshire etc. Pledges are named for the defendants etc.

Postea text: 1 postea - the sheriff of Lincolnshire did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 459d

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Loan

Pleading: John L. claims that John W. owes him £20 per a loan. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: JW comes and defends etc. And upon this day is given between the parties in Trinity term 1405. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 467

Term: Easter 1405
County: Surrey
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Reckoning of account; Sale of goods

Pleading: John Harold Sen., John Harold Jr., and Simon Harold claim that Thomas C. owes them £30 concerning the time when he acted as receiver of their monies, namely for one year starting in the Pentecost of 1401 (22/05/1401). During this time TC received on their behalf £30 of profits from diverse sacks of wool. The plaintiffs claim that they subsequently held a reckoning of the account between them before auditors Andrew B. and Thomas H. at Southwark, Surrey, on 31/08/1402 which showed TC to be in arrears and clear debt of £30. Damages are claimed at £100.

Pleading: TC says that he did not have an accounting before the said auditors and puts himself upon the country, and the plaintiffs put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 467d

Term: Easter 1405
County: Surrey
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William W. claims that John L, Alice L., Richard B., and John C. - executors of the will of William C. - owe him £18 on a bond. Damages claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made, but WW says it was made at [blank space].

Pleading: JL, AL, RB, and JC say that the action against them ought not continue because they did not administer any of the late WC's goods or chattels.

Pleading: WW says that the defendants did administer goods and chattels of the late WC at Southwark, Surrey, and seeks inquiry upon the country, and the defendants seek likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 469

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Guy T. claims that Thomas W. owes him 40s arising from diverse sales of bread to the said TW between Easter 1399 as far as Michaelmas 1399, namely 40 dozen loves of white bread. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: TW says that he does not owe GT the said 40s nor any other monies and offers his law. Pledges of law are named.

Postea text: postea 1 - TW makes essoin and so the case if forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Postea text: postea 2 - TW comes and makes his law and so is without day. GT is in mercy for false claim.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 469

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Abduction

Pleading: Peter K. claims that on the Monday before Michaelmas year 1 Henry IV (27/09/1400) Adam S., Richard H., and Robert S., abducted his servant John L. PK claims that JL was in his service at London when AS, RH, and RS used force and arms to abduct JL so that JL was out of PK's service for 'five years' (note that period would imply a period extending beyond the date of the present entry!). Damages are claimed at 100m.

Pleading: AS, RH, and RS say that they are innocent and put themselves upon the country, and PK puts himself likewise.

Postea text: 1 postea - the sheriff did not sent the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1405.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/577, rot. 472

Term: Easter 1405
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £100
Damages awarded: 40s
Case type: Debt

Pleading: William S. claims that prior Ralph M. of Lyre Ocle, Herefordshire, owes him £40 arrears concerning a £10 annuity. WS says that prior RM granted to WS a life annuity in the lands and rents etc. of Lyre Ocle, Herefordshire, to be paid in equal portions at Michaelmas and Lady Day. WS says that a term of this annuity was that should this annuity fall into arrears he would have good licence to make distraint to the full satisfaction of the said debt. WS says that prior RM stopped paying this annuity four years prior to the making of the present writ, namely on 12 May 1405, and hence he brings the present suit. Damages are claimed at £100. The document is shown in the court. Noted that the writing does not say where it was made, but that WS claims it was made at London etc.

Pleading: Prior RM says that the action against ought not continue because WS, since the time of the aforesaid writing, gave to him a release at Lyre Ocle, Herefordshire.

Pleading: WS says that the case should continue because the release is not of his making. Order to the sheriff of Herefordshire etc. The release is put into the safe keeping of clerk William P.

Postea text: postea 1 - release is given to justice Hugh H. to be considered by a jury, and clerk WP is quit.

Postea text: postea 2 - continuance between the parties as far as a day in [blank space] year eight of the reign of Henry IV.

Postea text: postea 3 - both parties come and WS says that he was also proceeding in the king's court against the same RM concerning a £40 debt (CP 40/577, rot 140 and CP 40/577, rot 347d) on a bond by which RM was held to WS. In that case also, RM brought forward a supposed release, absolving him of the said debt. In that case WS said that the release was not of his making (presumably the same release RM has brought forth in the present case) and sought inquiry upon the country. That previous case (on a £40 bond) was heard at the assize at Hereford on 27 July 1405, where it was found that the said bond was indeed not of WS's making. As a result of that previous case WS was awarded 13s 4d damages for the detention of his monies and 5m costs, and prior RM was amerced and committed to the Fleet prison. It is that same false release that prior RM brought forth in this present case to deny the aforesaid £10 annuity. Hence, order that the release is also invalid here, and WS is to recover arrears of £60, both for the time prior to the issuing of the present writ and afterwards, along with 40s damages. Prior RM, who has been committed to the Fleet prison, is to remain there until this debt and damages have been paid.