CP40/643: Michaelmas term 1421

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 103

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: William E. claims that Thomas G. owes him 40s arising from the sale of tartan, carde, worsted, linen cloth, and one quilt/mattress (culcitram) which TG bought but did not pay for.

Pleading: TG says that he does not owe WE the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and offers his law, to be made in Hilary term 1422. Pledges of law are named.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 115

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Wiliam Cavendyssh and William Craneley claim that Katherine B., widow and executor of the will William B., owes them £47 14s 1½d per a bond made between William Cavendyssh and William Craneley on the one part, and the late WB on the other part. Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court. And upon this William Cavendyssh and William Craneley say that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: KB says that the late WB named a certain Richard B. as his executor, and that this RB, as the executor of WB's will, made full executry and administration of the goods and chattels which were of WB at the time of his death. KB says that this RB is not named in the writ and seeks judgement on the writ.

Pleading: William Cavendyssh and William Craneley say that KB's plea is not sufficient to nullify their writ and seek judgement on the aforesaid debt and damages.

Pleading: KB says that Wiliam Cavendyssh and William Craneley have not denied her allegation, which she is prepared to verify, and seeks judgement on the writ etc. And because the justice has not yet been advised concerning his judgement upon the aforesaid plea, day is given between the parties in Hilary term 1422 to hear judgement.

Postea text: 3 posteas - all say that because the justice has not yet been advised further day is given between the parties, forwarding the case as far as Michaelmas term 1422.

Case notes: Related to CP40/641 rot.113d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 115d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Reckoning of account

Pleading: William C. and William T. claim that Katherine B., widow and executor of the will of William Beauchamp, owes them £29 6s 1d by way of a bond and arrears of account. WC and WT say that on 04/12/1419 the late William Beauchamp made a bond with them in £16 13s 11d, which has not been paid. They also say that on 10/12/1419 a reckoning of the account between WC with WT on one part, and the late William Beauchamp on the other part, was held before auditors William F. and John S., concerning the time which the late William Beauchamp acted as receiver of the monies of WC and WT. It is claimed that this accounting found William Beauchaump to be £12 12s 2d in arrears to WC and WT. Damages are claimed at £40. The bond is shown to the court. And upon this WC and WT say that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: KB says that the late WB named a certain Richard B. as his executor, and that this RB, as the executor of WB's will, made full executry and administration of the goods and chattels which were of WB at the time of his death. KB says that this RB is not named in the writ and seeks judgement on the writ.

Pleading: William Cavendyssh and William Craneley say that KB's plea is not sufficient to nullify their writ and seek judgement on the aforesaid debt and damages.

Pleading: KB says that William Cavendyssh and William Craneley have not denied her allegation, which she is prepared to verify, and seeks judgement on the writ etc. And because the justice has not yet been advised concerning his judgement upon the aforesaid plea, day is given between the parties in Hilary term 1422 to hear judgement.

Postea text: 3 posteas - all say that because the justice has not yet been advised further day is given between the parties, forwarding the case as far as Michaelmas term 1422.

Case notes: Related to CP40/641 rot.113

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 118d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Contract (general); Debt

Pleading: John A. claims that Henry H. ought to pay him £20 which he owes and unjustly detains. JA says that at Westminster (Middlesex) in the octave of Trinity 1420 it was decided by the Barons of the Exchequer that he ought to recover £20 from a certain John W., servant of Baron of the Exchequer Roger W., and hence JA sought that JW should be committed to the king's Fleet prison until the debt should be satisfied. At this time it was agreed, between JA and the defendant HH, that HH would pay JA the aforesaid £20 'before (infra) the month of Easter 1421' if JA would allow JW the right to go free. HH has not paid this £20 and thus the suit. Damages are claimed at 20m.

Pleading: HH says that he does not owe JA the aforesaid £20 nor any other monies and offers his law, to be made in Hilary term 1422. Pledges of law are named. It is decided that HH's attorney, Robert Threlkeld, is to have his master to this court to make his law in the aforesaid term.

Postea text: postea 1 - HH makes essoin and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1422.

Postea text: postea 2 - JA makes essoin and so the case is forwarded as far as Trinity term 1422.

Postea text: postea 3 - JA does not come to prosecute his writ and so he and his pledges of prosecution are in mercy. HH is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 119

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40m
Case type: Bond; Contract (general)

Pleading: John A. claims that John B. owes him 40m per a bond. Damages claimed at 40m. Bond shown in court. And upon this JA says that thee bond was made [location left blank].

Pleading: JB asks that thee bond and its endorsements be read out. The bond says that on 03/4/1420 JB, Peter G., and William S. obliged themselves to JA in 40m, payable to the same JA on 19/04/1421. The condition on the bond says that if the aforesaid PG should come with two archers, well and sufficiently armed, mounted, and arrayed as is suitable to their estate, to the port of Southampton or Dover by the 18 of April 1421 to make voyage to serve the king under JA for half a year, PG taking from JA what wages he shall pay, then the bond shall be null and void. JB says that the force of the bond ought not hold because PG, with two archers, well and sufficiently armed, mounted, and arrayed etc. came to Southampton for the 18th of April as required.

Pleading: JA says that PG did not have did not have two archers to Southampton for the aforesaid 18th of April as JB claims and seeks judgement on the debt and damages.

Pleading: JB says that PG was at Southampton on the aforesaid 18th of April in the form aforesaid and puts himself upon the country, and JA puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hampshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Hampshire did not send the writ, and so the case is forwarded until later in Hilary term 1422.

Case notes: endorsement in French

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 133

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £50
Case type: Taking of goods

Pleading: Richard G. claims that Henry M. used force and arms to seize and carry off 40 entire pieces of woollen cloth containing in them 80 dozen worth £40 (quadraginta pannos laneos integros content' in se quattorviginti duodenas ad valenc') at Abingdon, Berkshire. Damages are claimed at £50.

Pleading: HM defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 134

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Thomas E. claims that John A. owes him 55s arising from the sale of 5 yards of scarlet cloth which JA bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: JA says that he does not owe TE the aforesaid 55s nor any other monies and offers his law. JA makes his law immediately, and so is quit. TE amerced for false claim.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 135d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Debt

Pleading: Thomas B. claims that Robert H. owes him a debt of 4m 10s, which debt was set out on 20/11/1420 by way of a recognizance before Richard N. and his fellow justices of the bench, and payable to TB in the quindene of Hilary 1421. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: RH defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 257

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Lawrence D. claims that John C. owes him £19 10s per a bond. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond show in court. And upon this LD says that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: JC says that the force of the bond ought not hold because he was imprisoned by LD and others of his coven at Southwark, Surrey, at the time of the bond's making.

Pleading: LD says that JC was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks inquiry by the country, and JC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Case notes: related to CP40/654 rot.200d, appears to be a suit on the same bond but claiming only £10 damages and said to be made in a different ward

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 270

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: William B. claims that parson Richard B. owes him 40s arising from the sale of 17 yards of blue woollen cloth which parson RB bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: RB defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as the octave Martinmas 1421 (later in Michaelmas 1421).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 270

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Loan

Pleading: John T. claims that parson Robert H. owes him £10 13s 4d per a loan. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: RH defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as the octave of Martinmas 1421 (later in Trinity 1421).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 270d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Abduction

Pleading: William M. claims that on 29/09/1419 Thomas C., together with Thomas S., used force and arms to abduct WM's servant, Thomas B. WM claims that as a result of this abduction, he was without TB's service for half a year. Damages are claimed at £20

Pleading: TC says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and WM puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of London did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1422.

Case notes: related to CP40/645 rot.381d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 307d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Disseisin
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: John Penne seeks from William Bury junior the manor of Kingsbury, Middlesex, which he claims by right and heritage, and in which WB junior should have no right of entry except by William Bury senior, to whom, with Margery Bury, widow of William Page, of whom JP is kinsman and heir, the property had been demised, to them and the heirs of their bodies. Margery died without heirs of her body by Wiliam B senior, and WB senior enfeoffed the manor to William B junior, when it ought to have reverted to JP, according to the statute.

Pleading: WB junior states that there is an inconsistency in the Latin of JP's writ, in that it says that JP seeks the aforesaid manor by right of his heritage in the form aforesaid in the writ, but then continues 'and who ('que'), after the death of Margery', etc., when it ought to say 'and because ('quod') after the death of Margery', etc. WB junior thus seeks judgement on the writ. The court hear and view the writ, and see that this is true. Order that JP have nothing for his writ, amerced for false claim. WB junior sent without day.

Case notes: Related to CP 40/655, rot 622.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 307d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Taking of goods

Pleading: John G. claims that Richard W. used force and arms to break into his chest, at Westminster, from which RW took goods and chattels to the value of £40, as well as a certain bond and a certain chirograph. The goods and chattels taken were namely: three silver cups, 12 silver spoons, 2 mazers bound with silver gilt, 3 brass jars, 4 brass plates, one roasting iron, and other household utensils. The bond showed that RW was held to JG in £10 at certain terms within-written. The chirograph showed that RW had been retained by JG as an apprentice under certain terms within-written. Damages are claimed at £100.

Pleading: RW says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and JG puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come at the quindene of Martinmas.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 309

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 60s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: William P. claims that John C. owes him £4 5s 5d arising from the sale of 15 pieces of Flemish linen cloth which JC bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at 60s.

Pleading: JC defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422.

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

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 309d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Simon Prentout claims that William Wydecombe of Whitcombe, Wiltshire, legislator and farmer of the manor of Charlton in Wiltshire owes him £7.

Pleading: WW, citing the statute of 6 Richard II which states that actions of debt must be brought under the county in which the debt was contracted, says that this debt was not contracted in London. WW asks that SP be examined by the court.

Pleading: SP is examined by the court, and acknowledges that the relevant bond was made in the church of St Clement Danes in Middlesex, even though his original writ was directed to the sheriff of London, contrary to the statute. Therefore order that SP has nothing for his writ, and is amerced for false claim. WW sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 310

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £500
Damages awarded: 60
Costs: 40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Walter R. claims that Richard A. owes him £500 on a bond. Damages are claimed at £500. Bond shown in court. And upon this WR says that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: RA says that the bond is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and WR puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the quindene of Martinmas 1421 (later in Michaelmas term 1421). The bond is given to clerk John H. for safe keeping.

Postea text: postea 1 - 05/02/1422 the bond is delivered to justice Robert Hull. Clerk JH is quit.

Postea text: postea 2 - continuance between the parties as far as the octave of the Purification 1422, unless the case should first be heard before justice Robert Hull at the assize at St Martin le Grand on 5 February 1422.

Postea text: postea 3 - the case is heard before justice Robert Hull and associate justice Ralph Hull at the assize at St Martin le Grand on 05/02/1422. A jury comes and says on oath that the bond is of RA's making, just as WR alleged. Therefore, WR is to recover the aforesaid debt plus 60s damages and 40s costs. And upon this the bond is returned to clerk JH, and justice Robert Hull is quit of it.

Postea text: postea 4 - 12/02/1423 WR comes and acknowledges satisfaction concerning the aforesaid debt and damages; therefore, RA is quit. RA seeks to make fine with the lord king, and he is admitted (the the king's peace) per the pledges of Richard B. and John L., for a fine of 13s 4d. Therefore, RA is quit.

Case notes: Related to CP40/640 rot.348.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 311

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Sussex
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Taking of goods

Pleading: John G. claims that William L. forcibly took and carried away seven pigs, worth 4m, at Hurstpierpoint, Sussex. Damages claimed at £10.

Pleading: Concerning four of the seven pigs, WL says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and JG puts himself likewise. Concerning the remaining three pigs, WL says that they were not as valuable as is supposed in the writ. WL also says that prior to the day of the supposed trespass a certain Walter P. was seised of one messuage with appurtenances in Hurstpierpoint, in his demesne as of fee, including the location of the supposed trespass. WL says that WP held this property of him by fealty, and service of 1d payable to WL or his heirs etc. at Michaelmas each year; as well as a heriot of the tenant's best beast at his death. WL says his father, Ralph, and as well as himself, were seized of these dues in their demesne as of fee, but that after the death of the aforesaid WP, his son and heir John P. did not give his fealty, pay his rent for Michaelmas 1420, or pay heriot for his late father WP. Hence, at the time of the supposed trespass JP was in in arrears to the WL, and WL took one of the three pigs for JP's fealty, another for unpaid rent, and the third as a heriot for the late WP, as he had good licence to do.

Pleading: JG says that the late WP did not hold the aforesaid messuage, nor any other parcel of land from WL for services or heriot or anything else.

Pleading: WL says that says that the late WP did hold the aforesaid messuage from him in the manner aforesaid. Parties on country, jury here at octave of Hilary.

Postea text: Process continued, jury in respite to quindene of Trinity, then to quindene of Michaelmas, before which date Henry V died. In Michaelmas term 1422 JG came and sought a writ to the sheriff of Sussex to re-attach WL to be at this court to hear the record and judgment, and also to have a jury before the court in that term. This was granted, returnable at the quindene of Hilary.

Postea text: Writ arrived too late, to Easter five weeks 1423.

Postea text: 2 posteas, sheriff did not send writ, to quindene of Michaelmas 1423

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 313

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Hampshire
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Contract (service/employment)

Pleading: Thomas S. claims that John Perveys, executor of the will of John Profete, Robert W., and RW's wife Elizabeth W., herself a co-executor, owe him £6. TS says that on 20/10/1408 he was retained by the late John Profete to be his seneschal for the manors of Ewhurst and Oakley, Hampshire, and the manor of Chirton, Wiltshire. In return, TS was to receive 20s annually, payable at Michaelmas. TS says that he worked for the late John Profete in this capacity well and faithfully for 6 years, commencing on the aforesaid 20/10/1408, but was not paid by the late John Profete, nor his executor John Perveys, nor co-executor EW before or after her marriage to RW, etc. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: Executors John Perveys and EW, as well as RW, say that they do not owe John Profete the aforesaid £6 nor any other monies and put themselves on the country, and TS puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hampshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Hampshire returns that the writ reached him too late, and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 313d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Assault; Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: William D. claims that John L., together with his wife Joan L., John S., John B., Simon C., and Thomas S., used force and arms to break his house and close at London, where the assaulted him and took his goods and chattels to the value of 40m. The goods taken were namely 2 silver cups, one covered with a silver lid, the other uncovered, 12 silver spoons, 3 mazers bound with silver and gilt, one fur of grey, one fur of pote, one violet and musterdvilers gown lined with crop of grey; one blue gown lined with polecat fur ('ficheaux'); one russet coloured cloak; two caps (capicia), one sanguine and one white; and seven linen sheets. Damages are claimed at £100.

Pleading: JL says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and WD puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 315d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: William R. and Thomas B. claim that Joan H. owes them £10 per a bond. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court. And upon this WR and TB say that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: JH says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of it's making she was imprisoned by WR, TB, and others of their coven at St John's Street, in the parish of St Sepulchre Without Newgate, beyond the bar of West Smithfield London, in the county of Middlesex.

Pleading: WR and TB say that JH was a free woman at the time of the bond's making and seek inquiry upon the country, and JH seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Middlesex to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 323

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Thomas Mylys states that on 14 July 1406, in London, Edmund Holland, late earl of Kent, made a bond with him in £10, payable at Martinmas then next. However, despite many requests, he did not repay this, and nor has his widow, Lucy Visconti, countess of Kent, of Milan in Lombardy, to whom administration of the goods and chattels formerly of EH was granted, in St Giles without Cripplegate, by Richard, late bishop of London, ordinary of that place. This is to his damage of £20. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: LV, protesting that she never administered any of the goods and chattels formerly of EH, and that administration was never granted to her, states that TM ought not maintain his action against her, as by virtue of a petition which she presented to the parliament which opened at Westminster on 2 May 1421 [TNA SC 8/24/1161], enrolled on the parliament roll, she agreed in the presence of the king to transfer to men named by the king all her rights to 6000m of the 13000m John Maria, formerly duke of Milan, agreed to pay for her dowry, and which Philip Maria, the present duke of Milan, and the community of Milan were due to pay. After this grant, the king ordained with the assent of parliament that LV was to be quit and exonerated of all suits and actions brought against her regarding these debts, by the authority of parliament. Afterwards, on 12 July 1421, in the parish of St Botolph without Aldgate, she granted this 6000m to the duke of Bedford, the duke of Gloucester, Henry, bishop of Winchester, Richard, bishop of London, and William Kynwolmersch, treasurer of England, nominated by the king, according to the terms of this agreement and according to canon law and the laws of England and Milan. She shows in court the letters patent of the king, witnessed by the duke of Bedford as keeper of England, by which the king, at LV's request, exemplified the enrolments of the petition, the resultant act and LV's release of the 6000m [recited in full; exemplification calendared in CPR 1416-22, p.379; for the full enrolment of all three documents, see Rot. Parl, vol. iv, pp.143-5 (PROME, vol.9, pp.297-302)].

Pleading: TM, not acknowledging that LV made any such transfer of her rights or anything said by LV above, since LV did not deny that the bond was of her late husband's making or that administration was granted to her as he has claimed, states that LV has goods and chattels of her late husband in her hands by which this debt and all her husband's other creditors might be paid, namely in the parish of St Giles without Cripplegate, and he seeks judgment and damages.

Pleading: LV, not acknowledging anything claimed by TM, since she made a sufficient plea to deny the action and TM has not made a sufficient plea in response, seeks judgment and that TM be denied his action for default of a sufficient plea. And since the justices wish to be advised in this matter, day is given to the parties at the octave of Hilary.

Postea text: Parties came, and the justices, having read and understood these pleas, state that LV has made a sufficient plea to deny TM his action, and the TM has made an insufficient reply. Order that TM take nothing, but is amerced for false claim. LV sent without day.

Case notes: Contains full transcript of enrolment on parliament roll of May 1421 (Rot. Parl., vol. iv, pp.143-5), and the original petition SC 8/24/1161. See also Complete Peerage, vol. vii, p.163.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 324

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Taking of goods

Pleading: Edmund C. claims that chaplain Simon F. and chaplain William G. used force and arms to seize and carry off his goods and chattels to the value of £20 as well as £20 cash money at London. The goods taken were namely: 3 gold rings; one silver and gilt ring called a signet; and one silver chest for the host. Damages are claimed £100.

Pleading: Chaplian SF and chaplain WG defend and seek licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - further licence to imparl as far as Trinity term 1422.

Case notes: similar but slightly different cases between the same plaintiff and defendant appear on CP40/647 rot.111d. And CP40/654 rot.391

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 324d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Nicholas H. claims that John B. owes him £20 per a bond. Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JB defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: postea 1 - further licence to imparl as far as Easter term 1422.

Postea text: postea 2 - further licence to imparl as far as Michaelmas term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 329d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Thomas F. claims that Thomas T. owes him £10 arising from the sale of one horse which TT bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: TT defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422.

Pleading: [further information drawn from CP40/645 rot.128] TT says that he does not owe TF the aforesaid £10 nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and TF puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Trinity term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - further licence to imparl as far as Easter term 1422.

Postea text: postea 2 - in Trinity term 1422 the case was respited as far as Michaelmas term 1422, prior to which term king Henry V died. Therefore, in Michaelmas term 1422 TK sought a new writ of the sheriff of London to re-arrest TT to be before the court in Hilary term 1423 to hear judgement, and also to make the jury, as first empanelled, come to the same term.

Postea text: postea 3 - the sheriff of London did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as the quindene of Easter term 1423.

Postea text: postea 4 - the sheriff of London did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded until later in Easter term 1423 (Easter in 5 weeks).

Postea text: postea 5 - the sheriff of London returns that the writ reached him too late, and so the case is forwarded as far as Trinity term 1423.

Case notes: further information drawn from CP40/645 rot.128

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 356

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Surrey
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William C. claims that John N. owes him £6 per a bond. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court. And upon this WC says that the bond was made at Southwark, Surrey.

Pleading: JN says that the action against him ought not continue because after the making of the bond, namely on 22/12/1420, WC issued him a release at Sevenoaks, Kent.

Pleading: WC says that the release is not of his making and seeks inquiry upon the country. Order to the sheriff of Kent to make a jury come in the quindene of Martinmas 1421 (later in Michaelmas term 1421).

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as trinity term 1422, from which day the case was adjourned as far as Michaelmas term 1422. However, prior to Michaelmas 1422 king Henry V died. Therefore, in Easter term 1423, WC sought a new writ of the sheriff of Surrey directing him to have a jury to this court in Trinity term 1423, and to have JN to the court to hear their judgement.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 381

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Richard E. claims that Thomas O. owes him 20m per a bond. Damages are claimed at 20m. Bond shown in court. And upon this RE says that the bond was made at Westminster, Middlesex.

Pleading: TO says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of it's making he was imprisoned by RE and others of his coven at Watford, Hertfordshire.

Pleading: RE says that TO was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks inquiry, and RE seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hertfordshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 381

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: John T. claims that John Fang and Roger Jonservant Fang used force and arms killed his horse, worth 40s, at London. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: JF and RJF say that they are innocent and puts themselves upon the country, and JT puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 462

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £200
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Robert W. claims that John D. and his wife Florence D., herself the executor of the will of Thomas B., owe him £400 per a bond made between RW and the late TB. Damages are claimed at £200. Bond shown in court. And upon this RW says that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: JD does not acknowledge that the aforesaid bond is of the late TB's making, nor that FD was TB's executor. JD says that long before TB's death, the late TB, by way of a certain writing which JD and FD present to the court, made on 01/03/1416, gave and granted to William C., John S., Nicholas D., John C., and Robert W. all of his goods and chattels, as much moveable as immovable, of whatever nature etc., and (that which) TB by right, was owed or considered (de jure debita seu spectancia) at the time of the same gift and grant, for a term of 60 years. Additionally, this grant included the rents of diverse tenements in Walbrook, London, which TB had by grant of William B. to whom John Fitz Simond demised them, to the same term. William C., John S., Nicholas D., John C. and their assigns etc are to have and to hold these goods and chattels without reclamation or accusation or contradiction by TB etc. As a result of this gift and grant William C., John S., Nicholas D., John C. were seised of all these goods and chattels etc. and TB was permitted (by William C., John S., Nicholas D., John C.) to occupy them for the term of his life. Later, TB died, and William C., John S., Nicholas D., John C. granted these goods and chattels to FD whilst she was a woman alone, by the force of which gift FD as a woman alone, and later FD together with her husband JD, were seised of these things. FD says that the only thing which passed to her of JD, which belonged to TB at the time of his death, was one copper/brass plate worth 12d concerning which they made full administration long before he making of the original writ. It is noted that TB had on the day of the aforesaid gift and grant to William C., John S., Nicholas D., John C., among other goods and chattels, namely: 2 beds with curtains/hangings; one celure (silerum - O.E.D. 'hangings of a bed'); seven costers (side-curtains for a bed) and tapestries; 4 benches/bench-covers (scannaria) called 'bankers'; 12 cushions of red and blue worsted; one bed with curtains and celure; seven tapestries (tapetas) and costers; 3 benches/bench-covers (scannaria) and 6 cushions of worsted with tri-foils; one bed with curtains and celure; two costers of red worsted; 'one covering of blue tapisser-work with curtains and celure of blue carde; one covering, tester and celure with curtains; 3 benches/bench-cover and 6 cushions of red and green worsted; one covering and one tester of 'Norfolk grey (glauci)' colour with curtains and celure of blue carde; one covering of Flanders tapisser-work (of Flemmish tapisser-work) with dogs called 'talbots' interwoven; 2 benches/bench-covers and 12 cushions of the same work; 3 curtains and celure of blue carde; one covering; one tester of blue worsted with curtains and celure of blue carde; 2 costers of red, green, and white worsted for enclosing; 4 covers of a work called 'chalon-work'; 6 'purlinges of Flanders'; 2 covers; 2 testers of blue worsted with curtains and celure of blue carde; 9 bed cushions called 'feather-beds'; 9 bolsters; 2 pallets; 8 mattresses; 8 pair of blankets and one quilt; one covering; one tester of embroidered blur worsted; one covering of yellow cloth embroidered with roses lined with carde; 30 pair of sheets; 24 pillows; 3 carpets; 2 benches; 2 copboards; 6 tables; 6 pair of trestles; one tall cathedra (i.e. arm-chair = 'longam cathedram'); 2 other cathedra; 12 stools (scabella inucta); 2 pair of tablers (tabulers); 3 long lances; one 'lance-gaye'; two poleaxes; one reversible 'table of Pruce' (unam tabulam de pruce reversam); 2 chests (cistm); 6 long chests; 2 gardeviances; 2 pair of forcers called trussing coffers; one hanaper; 3 pair of andirons; 4 iron plates for a certain 'hall hearth' (astro aule); 2 pair of tongs; one iron fork (furcam); one fire-rake; 2 long benches; 4 short benches; one aumbry; three counter-chests; 4 chests of Pruce; 3 forcers; 12 pair of 'bed-boards'; 6 pair of room-basins (pelves pro camera); 2 pair of bells; 2 sacks of leather called 'cloth-sacks'; barehides of leather; 3 cloth bags called 'males'; one sulphering-vat; one tablet of alabaster; 2 vestments; one gold cup; 2 cruets; one paxbred; 2 'corporaces'; 4 towls; one frontal; one reredos of red and green tartarin; one crucifix of burel and silver gilt; one sacring-bell; 24 table-cloths called 'board-cloths'; 4 cupboard cloths; 25 towels; 70 small-cloths of daiper; 11 table cloths; 11 small towels of plain cloth; 28 silver cups; 24 plain sliver lids; 6 silver saucers; one chest for spices (pro pulve); 2 dozen silver spoons; 6 basins with 3 lavers of counterfeit latten; 3 basins and three plain lavers; 6 round basins; 8 latten candelabra; one copper chafer; 4 jars called pottel-pots; 4 jars called quart-pots and 2 jars called pint-pots of electrum; 2 jars; 4 lavers; 6 goblets and one lid of silver; 5 covered craters plain and gilt; 2 cups; one laver; 2 silver gilt goblets; 2 silver gilt and bound girdles; one gilt signet; 20 rings with 3 of diamond and 3 of sapphire (cum tribus diamandis et tribus saphiris); 7 ounces of broken gold; 2 ponds and 7 ounces of broken silver; 3 necklaces; 2 strings of pearls; 3 rosaries called 'paternosters' of gold and coral; one ambry (almoriolum); one counter-chest; 2 long-chests for bread, one (chest) for napery; one chest for 40 pounds of candles, 3 pairs of bellows; 6 'jars' of leather; 5 table-knives; 2 knives called trencher-knives; 7 torches (tortos); 3 large-torches/candles (tortulos); 18 prickets of wax; 2 pipes of Gascon wine; 2 barrels of sweet wine called malvoisie and rumney; one pipe of wine called vinegar; one closed-ambry with seven basinets; 6 ventails; 2 breastplates; 3 pair of cuisses; 3 pair of greaves; three pair of rebraces and three pair of umbraces; three pair of 'gloves of plate'; 4 iron vizors; one pair of blue rolled-silk briganders (brigandines); 4 coats of mail; one sparth; 3 swords; 4 baselards; 2 daggers; one 'wood-knife'; 3 pair of trenching-knives bound with one silver thread; one black satin outer-garment; one ambry with 5 dozen bows; 7 dozen arrows; 6 catapults; one dozen arrow heads; 6 dozen shafts/tails? (petiliorum); 3 dozen shafts/tails? called perch-bolts and flights; 6 bracers called 'wad-braces'; 6 gloves for archery; 2 dozen bow-strings; 2 leather bags 3 canvas bags for bows; one cloth of (squirrel) 'stage'; one yellow outer-garment; 4 copper/brass jars; 8 copper/brass plates; 2 cooking-pots; 8 pair of plates; 3 grilling irons; 3 frying-pan; one long plate; 10 iron cooking-dishes; 2 pair of iron rakes; 2 'gromos'; 3 iron tripods; 2 pair of tongs; 2 dressing knives; 2 leaching-knives; 2 sconces (skon'is); 2 large tin/pewter ladles (stannea); 4 mortars; 3 pestles (pilas); 2 plates called 'fire-plates'; 2 tables for hearths (duas tabulas pro ostriis); one grate; one 'pele' (pell?); 2 hooks called 'flesh-hooks'; 13 chargers; 20 platters; 23 dishes; 12 saucers of electrum; a set of 18 vessels (vasibus); one aumbry; one lead chest; 2 baths called 'salting-troughs'; one large earthen vessels; 2 barrels for 'verges'; 2 pipes called bolter-pipes ('bulterpipes); one bath and 2 tubs for kneading; 2 bottles (butell'); one sieve; one 'strinxoria' (strainer?); 3 sacks; two axes for fuel; 5 horses; 5 saddles with all their apparatus; 2 saddles for women (sellas per mulieribus) with all their apparatus; one saddle called a 'summer saddle'; one saddle called a 'mail-saddle'; one horse comb; 2 horse covers of canvas; 3 boars; 6 sows; 40 pigs; 20 small pigs; 200 sheep; 16 cows; one bull; 10 oxen; 10 calves; 16 geese; 20 ducks; 30 capons; 20 hens; 6 cocks; 50 acres of wheat; 30 acres of barley; 30 acres of sown peas and vetch; 20 quarters of wheat in the granary; 30 quarters of barley; 20 quarters of wheat in stacks (in tassis); 22 quarters of oats; 12 quarters of peas; 8 cart horses; one cart furnished (reinforced) with iron; 2 other carts; 2 ploughs with all their apparatus; 3 carts for dung; 4 harrows; 10 shovels; 2 hoes; 6 spades; 3 dung-forks; 1 wheelbarrow; one bushel measure (bussellum); one winnowing-cloth; three fanning-troughs; three steeping-vats; one seed-cod; 10 sacks for grain; one mashfat; and other pipes and tubs.

Pleading: RW does not acknowledge that the writing presented in this court under the name of Thomas Burton is of TB's making, nor the things contained in it, and says that his action ought not be excluded. RW says that on the day of the making of his original writ, namely 08/10/1421, and afterwards, JD and executor FD had other diverse goods and chattels of the late TB, beyond the aforesaid goods and chattels, namely: gold; silver; silver vessels, a certain gilt and a certain white necklace (vasa argenta quedam videlt' deaurata et quedam alba monilia); precious stones; jewels (iocalia); pepper; ginger; almonds; oil; wax; woad; madder; gold cloth; cloth of silk; worsted cloth linen and woollen cloth; tablecloths; towels; bonds of payment (scripts obligatoria de custumis) assigned to TB totalling £400 and other diverse debts owed to TB totalling £200; and many other diverse goods and chattels. RW says that these goods were at London in the parish of St John the Evangelist, Walbrook Ward and Dowgate Ward. RW seeks inquiry upon the country, and JD with FD seek likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Case notes: related to CP40/644 rot.320

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 466

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond; Contract (general)

Pleading: John A. claims that Thomas C. owes him 40m per a bond made on 03/04/1420 and payable on 19/04/1420. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. And upon this JA says that the bond was made at London [parish and ward left blank].

Pleading: TC defends and asks that the bond be read aloud to the court. The bond says that TC, John Clerk and James Crise obliged themselves to pay JA 40m on 19/04/1420. TC then asks that the bond's endorsements be read aloud to the court. The endorsement says that if James Cruse should come with two archers, well and sufficiently armed, mounted, and arrayed for war as befits their estate, to Southampton or Dover by 18/04/1420, to make voyage with, and serve the king, under JA, for what wages as JA shall pay, then the bond shall be null and void.

Case notes: endorsement in French

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 472

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Arbitration; Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: John S. and his wife Matilda S. claim that on 05/11/1397 Richard H. used force and arms to break their house and close at Middleton Stoney, Oxfordshire, where he took one horse worth £10 and goods and chattels to the value of £30. The goods and chattels taken were namely 8 dozen white blankets and 8 dozen blue woollen cloths. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: Concerning the use of force and arms RH says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and JS with MA put themselves likewise. Concerning the reminder of the supposed trespass RH says that on the Monday next following (12/11/1397), at Hertford, RH, JS and MS all submitted to the arbitration of Richard T. on the part of RH, and RH on the part of JS and MS, concerning all quarrels prior to the time of the supposed trespass. These arbitrators decided that RH ought to pay JS and MS 20d in amends and satisfaction for all quarrels, debts and trespasses between them. RH says that he paid JS and MS this 20d and offers to verify this.

Pleading: JS and MS protest that they never submitted to arbitration concerning all things great and small, and that they never elected JH to act as their arbitrator. They say that they never had any such arbitration or ordination etc. and seek inquiry upon the country, and RH seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hertfordshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: 3 posteas - all say that the sheriff of Hertfordshire did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 473

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Essex
Writ type: Trespass (other)
Damages claimed: £500
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: Joan, widow of John Chaumbre, amerced for many defaults. John Cokayn the uncle, citing the order of common council against the waste, sale or destruction of property demised for term of life or years, states that Joan Chaumbre has laid waste to land that she holds only for the term of the life of Joan, widow of Henry Spark. John Cokayn states that Alexander de Walden, Stephen, prior of Blackmore, Robert Rykedon, Robert Neuport, Richard Waltham, Ralph Chaumberleyn, William Gyffard, and John Gateward were formerly seised of the manor of Clayhall in Barking in their demesne as of fee. Thus seised, by a certain indenture of which John Cokayn shows in court the part sealed with the seal of Joan, widow of Henry Spark, dated 27 November 1389, they demised this manor to Joan, widow of Henry Spark, for term of her life, by virtue of which she was seised in her demesne as of free tenement. John Gateward later died, and the others were seised of the reversion of JG's portion. Prior Stephen, Rykedon and Gyffard then, by a document which John Cokayn also shows in court, dated 3 December 1391, released and quitclaimed all their rights and interests in the manor to Robert Neuport and Ralph Chaumberleyn, their heirs and assigns. Neuport and Chaumberleyn were thus seised of five of the seven parts of the reversion of this property. Later, by another document which John Cokayn shows in court, dated at Barking on 18 December 1391, Alexander Walden and Richard Waltham granted their two parts of this reversion to John Walcote, William Olyver and John Leycestre, citizens of London, by the name of all the portions belonging to AW and RW of all the lands in Barking formerly of Henry Spark, to hold to Walcote, Olyver and Leycestre and the heirs of Leycestre. By virtue of this, Joan, widow of Henry Spark, attorned herself to Walcote, Olyver and Leycestre, and, having married John Haroudon, later levied a fine in the court of Richard II, on 3 February 1392, before Robert de Cherlton and his fellows, then justices of the Bench. Afterwards, at the quindene of Easter 1392, it was granted and recorded before the justices and others between Walcote, Olyver and Leycestre (Walcote and Olyver appearing by attorney William Thwayt), plaintiffs, and Robert Neuport and Ralph Chaumberleyn, defendants, concerning the said 5 parts of this manor, by the name of one messuage, 190 acres of land, 20 acres of meadow, 20 acres of pasture, 30 acres of wood and 24s 10d rent in Barking, held by John Haroudon and his wife Joan for the life of Joan, by which RN and RC recognised the property to be the right of JL. And they grant that this property was of the inheritance of Robert Neuport, and that after the death of Joan it should revert to RN and Ralph C, and the heirs of RN, with remainder to Walcote, Olyver and Leycestre, and the heirs of Leycestre, to hold of the chief lord of the fee. By virtue of this John Haroudon and Joan attorned themselves to Walcote, Olyver and Leycestre. Leycestre later died without heirs of his body, and the reversion, after the deaths of Walcote, Olyver and Joan, wife of John Haroudon, descended to a certain Margaret, sister and heir of Leycestre, who married John Tittesbury. Walcote and Olyver later died, and at the quindene of Michaelmas 1409, before William Thirnyng and his fellow justices of the Bench, a fine was levied. Later at the octave of Hilary 1410, it was recorded before the justices and others between Henry Pountfreit, citizen and alderman of London, and John Macworth, clerk, JC (the plaintiff), John Tirell, Thomas Rolf, William de Fynderne and John de Fynderne, plaintiffs, and John Tittesbury and his wife Margaret, defendants, that concerning this manor and other property, JT and Margaret recognised this property to be the right of John de Fynderne, and that this manor, being that formerly held by Joan, widow of John Haroudon for term of her life, and which after the death of Joan should revert to JT, MT and the heirs of MT, should remain to Henry Pountfreit, John Macworth, John Cokayn, John Tirell, Thomas Rolf, William de Fynderne, John de Fynderne and the heirs of JF. JT and MT oblige themselves and their heirs to warrant the property to HP, etc., and Joan, widow of Henry Spark, also attorned herself to HP, etc. Afterwards, by another document which John Cokayn shows in court, dated at Clay Hall in Barking on 25 January 1413, John de Fynderne released and quit-claimed to Henry Pountfreit, his heirs and assigns, all his rights in this manor. By this and the earlier fine, HP was seised of the reversion of two parts of this manor, and afterwards John Macworth, John Cokayn, John Tirell, Thomas Rolf and William de Fynderne, by another document that John Cokayn shows in court, dated at Clay Hall in Barking on 1 February 1413, at the request of JF, released and quitclaimed to HP all their claims in that manor. By virtue of this, HP was seised of the entire reversion of this manor after the death of Joan, widow of Henry Spark. Afterwards, Joan, who was the wife of Henry Spark and afterwards of John Haroudon, after the death of John and while a single woman, demised the manor to HP, to hold at her will. HP, thus seised of the whole manor, in the parishes of Barking and Chigwell, by a document which John Cokayn again shows in court, dated at Clay Hall on 21 September 1413, granted the manor to John Tanner and John Hunte of London, and afterwards, by another document show in court, dated at Clay Hall at Michaelmas 1413, they demised the manor to HP, citizen and saddler of London, John Cokayn the uncle and John Profyt, citizen and fishmonger of London. John Profyt then died, and Joan, widow of Henry Spark, entered the manor, upon the possession of HP and JC, and demised all her right in the manor to Joan, widow of John Chaumbre, who, by virtue of this demise, was and still is seised in her demesne as of free tenement. Afterwards, HP, by another document which JC shows in court, dated 1 November 1419, released to JC the uncle all his interest in the manor, as all the lands in those parishes which they formerly held together, both by virtue of the fine of Michaelmas 1409 and of the release of Tanner and Hunte. By virtue of all these, John Cokayn is solely seised of the reversion of the entire manor. However, Joan, widow of John Chaumbre, has made waste of the property, namely digging and selling sand, clay and stone in one acre of land, worth 40s, allowing a hall worth £20, 4 rooms worth 20m each, a kitchen worth £10, a chapel worth £10, a dove-cote worth 20m, 2 granges (one worth 20m, the other £10), 2 stables (one worth £20, the other 10m), a sheep fold worth 40m, a ‘cart-house' worth 5m, a ‘dey-house' worth £10, and three pig sties worth 60s each to become unroofed, so that their large timbers have rotted, taking and selling timber from another room worth 20m and from another stable worth 20m, felling and selling 2000 oak trees worth 5s each from the manor's wood, and 6 pear trees worth 3s 4d each, 4 apple trees worth 3s 4d each, and 8 hazel-trees worth 12d each from the gardens. This all to the disinheritance of John Cokayn, and to his damage of £500. He also presents to this court two parts of the fines, which testify to the aforesaid grants.

Pleading: Joan Chaumbre says that after the death of John Gateward, and before the making of the quitclaim by prior Stephen, Robert Rykedon and William Gyffard to Robert Neuport and Ralph Chaumberleyn, and the assignment of two parts of the manor by Alexander Walden and Richard Waltham by their charter, and the aforesaid grant of five parts of the manor by Robert Neuport and Ralph Chaumberleyn by fine to John Walcote, William Olyver and John Leycestre, Alexander Walden, prior Stephen, Robert Rykedon, Robert Neuport, Richard Waltham, Ralph Chamberleyn and William Giffard jointly granted to John Walcote, William Olyver and John Leycestre, and the heirs and assigns of JL, the reversion of the manor, by virtue of which grant Joan, widow of Henry Spark, attorned herself to JW, WO and JL. Since this grant was not mentioned in the writ, she seeks judgment on the writ.

Pleading: John Cokayn granted licence to imparl to octave of Hilary.

Postea text: John Cokayn came in person, Joan by attorney. Cokayn states that Joan's plea is not sufficient in law, and seeks judgment and seisin of the property. Joan states that since Cokayn has not denied her plea, she should have judgment. Having heard the record, the court orders Joan to answer. Joan thus seeks licence to imparl to the quindene of Easter, and this is granted.

Postea text: 2 further licences to imparl to Joan, widow of John Chaumbre, to octave of Michaelmas 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 480d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40m
Case type: Bond; Contract (general)

Pleading: John A. claims that William S. owes him 40m per a bond. Damages are claimed at 40m. Bond shown in court. Upon this JA says that the bond was made at London [parish and ward left blank].

Pleading: WS comes and seeks that the bond ad its endorsements be read aloud. The condition on the bond says that if Peter G. should come with two archers, well and sufficiently armed, mounted, and arrayed as is suitable to their estate, to the port of Southampton or Dover by the 18 of April 1421 to make voyage to serve the king under JA for half a year, PG taking from JA what wages he shall pay, then the bond shall be null and void. WS says that the force of the bond ought not hold because PG, with two archers, well and sufficiently armed, mounted, and arrayed etc. came to Southampton for the 18th of April as required.

Pleading: JA says that PG was not at the port of Southampton for the 18th of Aprio 1420 as required, and so is prepared to verify this.

Pleading: WS says that PG was at Southampton by 18/04/1420 and puts himself upon the country, and JA puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hampshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - she sheriff of Hampshire did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as the Purification of St Mary 1422 (later in Hilary term 1422).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 491

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Northamptonshire
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 13s 4d
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John S. and William P. claims that John H. owes them £14 per a bond made on 22/04/1419 and payable in equal payments of £7 in the nativity of St John (24/06/1419) and £7 in Martinmas (11/11/1419) then next following. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond makes no mention of where it was made, but JS and WP say it was made at Northampton, Northamptonshire.

Pleading: JH says that the bond is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and JS with WP put themselves likewise. And upon this JS and WP name Richard P. as their attorney in this case. The bond is given to clerk John H. for safe keeping. Order to the sheriff of Northamptonshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - a continuance was given between the parties as far as Trinity term 1422, in which term a further continuance was given as far as Michaelmas term 1422. However, before Michaelmas term 1422 king Henry V died, and so in Michaelmas term 1422 JS and WP sought a new writ of the sheriff of Northamptonshire to have the jury, as first empanelled, to this court in Hilary term 1423, and to have JH to court in the same session to hear judgement.

Postea text: postea 2 - 27/01/1422 the bond is delivered to clerk Thomas B. and justice John Cokayn is quit of it.

Postea text: postea 3 - 10/07/1423 clerk TB delivers the bond to justice JC and so is quit of it.

Postea text: postea 4 - continuance between the parties as far as Michaelmas term 1423 unless the case is first heard at the assize of Northampton on 20/07/1423.

Postea text: postea 5 - the case is heard at the assize of Northampton on 20/07/1423 before justices JC and Thomas W. Defendant JH does not come and so the jury is taken against him for default. The jury says on oath that the bond is of JH's making and so awards plaintiffs JS and WP the aforesaid debt plus 13s 4d damages and 26s 8d costs.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 494

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Contract (general)

Pleading: Gregory P. claims that William R. owes him 40s. GP claims that on 09/05/1418 WR retained him to rub-down (projectand') with lime/chalk and sand, all the walls within the church of St Nicholas in the ward of Farringdon Within, London, as well as white-wash the same walls, taking for this work 40s. GP says that he carried out this work well and sufficiently, but WR has not paid him. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: WR says that he does not owe GP the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and GP puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 494

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Assault

Pleading: John S. and his wife Margery S. claim that Thomas L. and his wife Margaret L. used force and arms to assault MS, beating, wounding, and mal-treating her. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: Concerning the use of force and arms TL and ML say that they are innocent and put themselves upon the country, and JS with MS put themselves likewise. Concerning the remainder of the supposed trespass, TL and ML say that it was in fact JS and MS who assaulted them at the time and in the place aforesaid, and that they simply defended themselves.

Pleading: JS and MS reiterate their claim that they were assaulted by the defendants and seek inquiry upon the country, and TL with ML seek likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of London did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 494d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Detention of goods; Safe keeping

Pleading: John Combe claims that Robert O. detains one bond, showing that a certain John D. is held to JC in £40. John Combe says that he gave this bond to RO for safekeeping, and that RO now refuses to return it. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: RO presents this bond to the court and says that he is prepared to deliver it with the court's decision. However, he says that the bond was given to him with the unanimous assent of John Combe and JD, under the condition that he would only return it to one or the other of them under certain conditions. RO says that he is unaware, on the part of JD, if these conditions have been met. Therefore the decision is that the sheriff of London, by way of good and honest men of his bailiffry, is to make it know to JD that he is be to this court in Hilary term 1422 if he wants say why the bond should not be delivered etc. Day is also given between the parties in the same term etc.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of London returns that JD has nothing in his bailiwick. And upon this it is testified that JD has estate in the county of Sussex. Therefore the sheriff of Sussex is ordered to make it known to JD etc. by the Purification of St Mary (later in Hilary term 1422), and further day is given between the parties in the same term.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff of Sussex returns that the writ reached him too late and so the order is again given, as wall as further day between the parties, in Easter term 1422.

Postea text: postea 3 - the sheriff of Sussex returns that he ordered 'John Cole, bailiff of the liberty of the archbishop of Canterbury of South Malling (Sussex)' (to make it known to JD) etc. and that he had nothing in return. Therefore the sheriff of Sussex is ordered not to omit the liberty and to make it known etc., and the parties are given further day in Trinity term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 494d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (other)
Case type: Contract (general)

Pleading: Gregory P. claims that William R. owes him 40s. GP claims that on 09/05/1418 WR retained him to rub-down (projectand') with lime/chalk and sand, all the walls within the church of St Nicholas in the ward of Farringdon Within, London, as well as white-wash the same walls, taking for this work 40s. GP says that he carried out this work well and sufficiently, but WR has not paid him. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: WR says that he does not owe GP the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and GP puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 536

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Hertfordshire
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Detention of goods; Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Safe keeping

Pleading: Robert Barry claims that Richard F. and his wife Elizabeth F., herself the executor of the late William Barry, unjustly detain a certain chest containing charters and other muniments. Robert Barry says that he and the late William Barry were jointly seised of diverse lands and tenements in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, 'in his demesne', namely William Barry as of fee and Robert Barry as of free tenement. Robert Barry says that he gave the aforesaid chest containing charters, writings, and muniments pertaining to these lands in Berkhamsted, for the common usage of both William Barry and Robert Barry, to William Barry for safe keeping on 24/09/1414 at Berkhamsted. William Barry then later appointed EF his executor and died, whence the said chest with charters etc. passed into the hands of EF on 20/09/1415 at Berkhamsted. Robert Barry says that he has often requested the return of this chest, both whilst EF was single, and after she married RF. Damages are claimed at £100. The charters and muniments within the chest were namely: one charter by which Michael, earl of Suffolk, Robert Bolton, parson John Ingrith, and Roger Bygge, granted to Robert Barry and William Barry all lands and tenements with their rents, reliefs, heriots, escheats, services, courts, wardships, marriage-dues, and other rights and pertinences which William S. and his son Robert held in the parish of St Peter and St Mary of Berkhamsted and in the hamlet of Berkhamsted to be held by Robert Barry and William Barry in perpetuity; a charter by which William E. granted to Robert Barry and William Berry a certain annual rent of 5s from one messuage with appurtenances in Berkhamsted; a charter by which Thomas A., John W., Richard Y., and John C. granted to Robert Barry and William Barry one messuage with appurtenances in Berkhamsted; other diverse charters, writings, and muniments; and lastly one writing by which William Barry afterwards remised, released, and quitclaimed to Robert Barry all right and claim to all the aforesaid tenements, on the pretext of which release Robert Barry alone was seised of all the aforesaid tenements in his demesne as of fee.

Pleading: RF and EF defend and seek licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: postea 1 - further licence to imparl as far as Easter term 1422.

Case notes: This would appear to be a slightly different version of the case brought on CP40/637 rot.133. The previous case also involved some chattels.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 537d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Hertfordshire
Writ type: Disseisin
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: John L., John S., Thomas H., and John F., seek versus William B. , the manor of Thorley next to Stortford, Hertfordshire, of which WB has unjustly disseised them. JL, JS, TH, and JH say that they were seised of this manor in the time of the peace of Henry V, and have since been disseised.

Pleading: WB seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1422, and he has this, with the assent of the plaintiffs.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 557

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: Kent
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Housebreaking; Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: William E. claims that on 02/06/1421 Richard C., Thomas S., and John R. used force and arms to break his close at St Nicholas Wade, Kent, where they used ploughs to disturb one acre of WE's soil so that he could not use it from the time of the trespass until Michaelmas next following (29/09/1421). Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: RC, TS, and JR say that they are innocent and put themselves on the country, and WE puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Kent to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Postea text: 2 posteas - both say the sheriff of Kent did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Michaelmas term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 594

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Detention of goods; Safe keeping

Pleading: Elizabeth E. claims that Roger H. unjustly detains goods and chattels to the value of £10 which she gave RH for safe keeping, but which RH will not return. The goods and chattels in question are: one gold ring with a diamond; one gold ring with a sapphire; one gold ring with 'bocez'; 6 other gold rings; and one book of hours (librum cum diversis oracoil' in eodem libro scriptis). Damages are claimed at 20m.

Pleading: RH says that he does not detain the aforesaid items nor anything else and puts himself upon the country, and EE puts herself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 594

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Detention of goods; Safe keeping

Pleading: Richard B. claims that Thomas L. unjustly detains a bond whereby Thomas C. is held to certain Thomas B., Thomas (missing), and RB in £20. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: TL presents the bond to the court and says that he is ready to deliver it with the court's decision. However, TL says that the bond was given to him with the mutual assent of RB and Thomas Child, to be returned to either RB or Thomas Child only under certain conditions. TL says that he is ignorant, for the part of Thomas Child, as to whether these conditions have been met. Therefore, the sheriff of London, by way of good and honest men, is to make it known to Thomas Child that he is to be here in Hilary term 1422 if he wishes to say that RB ought not have livery of the bond etc. and day is given between the parties in the same term.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of London returns that Thomas Child has nothing in his bailiwick. And upon this it is testified that Thomas Child has estate in Gloucestershire etc. And upon this TL seeks a writ of the sheriff of Gloucestershire to make it known to Thomas Child etc., returnable in Trinity term 1422, and further day is given between the parties in the same term.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff of Gloucestershire returns that he made it known to Thomas Child to be at this court on this day by way of William G, Thomas Carles, John H. and John B. And upon this further day is given between the parties in Michaelmas term 1422.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/643, rot. 594d

Term: Michaelmas 1421
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Arbitration; Assault; Taking of goods

Pleading: Robert W. claims that Stephen P. used force and arms to assault him and take his goods and chattels to the value of 100s at London. The goods taken were namely: one silver bound dagger and other jewels ('jocalia'). Damages are claimed at 20m.

Pleading: SP says that the action against him ought not continue because since the supposed trespass, namely on 18/03/1419 at London, he and RW submitted to arbitration before arbitrators William F. and William C. on the part of SP, and Philip M. and Richard B. on the part of RW. SP says that these arbitrators ordained that SP ought to pay RW 6s 8d in for the aforesaid trespass. SP says that he paid RW this 6s 8d and is prepared to verify this.

Pleading: RW says that he and SP have not had any such arbitration and seeks inquiry upon the country, and SP seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1422. Pledges are named for the defendant.