CP40/671: Michaelmas term 1428

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 102

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Assault

Pleading: William W. claims that on 03/05/1428 John A. assaulted him with force and arms at London. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: JA says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and WW puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: 2 posteas - both say that the sheriff of London did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Easter in one month 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 102

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (against statute)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Breach of Statute; Contract (service/employment)

Pleading: John S., citing the statute of labourers, says that on 08/09/1424 he retained William D., at London, to work for him as a pewterer for one entire year from Michaelmas 1424 (29/09/1424) to Michaelmas 1425 (29/09/1425). However, WD left his service prematurely on the seventh day of... [remainder of date lost] in contempt of the king and breach of the statute. Damages are claimed at 20m.

Pleading: JS says that he did not withdraw from WD's service within the term aforesaid 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 1429. 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 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff of London did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Trinity term 1429.

Case notes: right hand edge of this entry is lost to damage

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 107

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £200
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Thomas H., Alexander F., and Senobo F., claim that Richard A. owes them £200 per a bond. Damages are claimed at £200. Bond shown in court. And upon this TH, AF, and SF say that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: RA says that the action against him ought not continue because after the making of the bond plaintiff AF issued a release from all real and personal actions to RA and a certain John B. at Bridgnorth, Shropshire, on 05/08/1427. RA presents this release to the court.

Pleading: TH, AF, and SF say that the release is not of AF's making and seek inquiry upon the country, and RA seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Shropshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. The release is given to clerk Robert D. for safe keeping.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Shropshire does not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - 30th day of [month damaged] 9 Henry VI the release is delivered to RA's attorney, Thomas H., because the suit has been discontinued.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 107d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £200
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Thomas H., Alexander F., and Senobo F., claim that John B. owes them £200 per a bond. Damages are claimed at £200. Bond shown in court. And upon this TH, AF, and SF say that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: JB says that the action against him ought not continue because after the making of the bond plaintiff AF issued a release from all real and personal actions to JB and a certain Richard A. at Bridgnorth, Shropshire, on 05/08/1427. RA presents this release to the court.

Pleading: TH, AF, and SF say that the release is not of AF's making and seek inquiry upon the country, and JB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Shropshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. The release is given to clerk Robert D. for safe keeping.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Shropshire did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 108

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Ralph Holand and Richard Osbarn, executors of the will of Thomas Brydlyngton, are in mercy for many defaults. The same executors (Ralph Holand and Richard Osbarn) were summoned to respond to William Sevenok and parson Richard Thorp, executors of the will of parson Thomas Oswaldkyrke, lately executor of the will of John Stapulford lately executor of the will of William Venour, concerning a plea that the same Ralph Holand and Richard Osbarn ought to pay William Sevenok and Richard Thorp £80. William Sevenok and Richard Thorp say that on 30/05/1392 the late Thomas Brydlyngton (for whom Randolph Holand and Richard Osbarn are executors) obliged himself to the late William Veunor (the executry of whom plaintiffs William Sevenok and Richard Thorp have inherited) in £80 on a bond due at the feast of the Ascension 1393. William Sevenok and Richard Thorp say that this bond has never been paid and thus bring the this suit against Ralph Holand and Richard Osbarn. Damages are claimed at £100. Bond shown in court, as well as letters testamentary showing they are executors of Thomas Oswaldkyrke, letters testamentary showing Thomas Oswaldkyrke to have been the executor of John Stapulford, and letters testamentary showing John Stapulford to have been the executor of William Venour.

Pleading: Ralph Holand and Richard Osbarn defend and seek licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - further licence to imparl as far as Easter term 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - defendants Ralph Holand and Richard Osbarn come, as well as plaintiff William Sevenok. However, plaintiff Richard Thorp does not come to prosecute his writ. Therefore, the decision is that William Sevenok ..... [damaged, but apparently is allowed to continue the suit on his own]. The defendants seek further licence to imparl as far as Trinity term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 114d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: Alexander C. and Henry T., executors of the will of parson John W., claim that William B. has not rendered reasonable account concerning the time which he acted as the late JW's receiver of monies. AC and HT claim that WB acted as the late JW's receiver from 31/03/1423 until Michaelmas 1423 (29/09/1423), during which period WB reciever on behalf of the late JW 40m per the hands of a certain Thomas W. at London. Damages are claimed at £40. AC and HT present letters testamentary to the court.

Pleading: WB says that he was never receiver of the monies of the late JW and puts himself upon the country, and plaintiffs AC and HT put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Case notes: related to CP40/667 rot.254d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 118

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Margery S. claims that Thomas B. owes her £40 as the unpaid residue of a £100 bond. Margery acknowledges satisfaction concerning £60 of the aforesaid £100. [The bond was made on 16 January … (regnal year lost to damage) Henry V, and due in the feast of Easter then next following.] Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court. And upon this MS says that the bond was made at London [parish and ward left blank].

Pleading: TB says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making, out of the coven and assent of MS, he was threatened both 'life and limb' and with imprisonment, by MS's sons Warin W. and John W., as well as other unknown men, at Tasburgh, Norfolk.

Pleading: MS says that TB made the bond of his own free will and seeks inquiry upon the country, and TB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Norfolk to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Norfolk did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - the sheriff of Norfolk has not done anything, nor has he sent the writ. Therefore the sheriff of Norfolk is again ordered to make a jury come, in trinity term 1429.

Postea text: postea 3 - the sheriff of Norfolk did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Michaelmas term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 120d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Abduction

Pleading: Robert Threlkeld claims that Ralph C. and Agnes H., together with Christiana P., used force and arms to seize and abduct his servant, Richard Threlkeld, at London on 03/08/1428, so that Robert Threlkeld was without Richard Threlkeld's service for the three weeks next following the trespass. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: RC and AH say that they are innocent and put themselves upon the country, and Robert Threlkeld puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. Sureties are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 134

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (against statute)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Breach of Statute; Maintenance; Sale of goods

Pleading: John A., citing the statute against maintaining and sustain the suits of others, claims that John B. and John E. maintained a suit of fraud (trespass) between JA himself and a certain Simon B. in the guildhall of the city of London before mayor John G. in breach of the statute and contempt of the king. JA complains that JB and JE, at London on 22/06/1428 maintained SB in suit between JA and SB, before mayor of London JG, whereby JA had claimed that on 22/03/1428 he had bargained to buy from SB one good and sound horse, capable of work; whereupon SB maliciously and fraudulently sold and delivered to him a horse which was incapable of work and infirm, namely having two new and delicate/fragile (novas et teneras) front hoofs, for 5m, warranting the same horse to be good and firm. JA claims damages of £20.

Pleading: JB and JE say that they are innocent of the charge of maintaining sustaining SB in the aforesaid suit and put themselves upon the country, and JA puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 191

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: William S. claims that John W. owes him 40s arising from the sale of 3 cart-loads of shingles ('scindularum') called 'laths' which JW bought but did not pay for. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: JW says that he does not owe WS the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and WS puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 191d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £10
Damages awarded: 8m
Case type: Arbitration; Detention of goods; Safe keeping

Pleading: Adam F. seeks from John Worsop two bonds, one of which states that AF was bound to a certain John Costyne in £10, and the other that the same Costyne was bound to AF in the same £10. AF states that he gave these two bonds to Worsop in the parish of St Giles without Cripplegate in Middlesex on 16 February 1428 for safe keeping, but Worsop now refuses to return them. Damages claimed at £10.

Pleading: Worsop presents the bonds in court, ready to deliver them as the court orders. However, he states that these bonds were given to him jointly by both AF and Costyne, only to be returned to either AF or Costyne under certain conditions. Worsop says that he does not know whether these conditions have been fulfilled on the part of Costyne, and asks that Costyne be forewarned. Sheriff of London to warn Costyne by good and honest men to be before this court at the octave of Martinmas 1428 to show any reason why the bonds ought not be delivered to AF. Day is given between the parties on that day.

Pleading: [continued at Easter 1429, rot 302] At the quindene of Easter 1429, parties come, AF and Worsop in person, Costyne by attorney. AF seeks delivery of the bonds from Worsop. Costyne, protesting that the bonds were delivered to JW in London, in the parish of [omitted], ward of [omitted], and not in the parish of St Giles without Cripplegate in Middlesex as claimed, states that the bonds ought to be delivered to him and not AF, as before the said 16 February there was a disagreement between him and AF as to which of them was responsible for making repairs to half of a certain wall in the parish of St Giles without Cripplegate. Concerning this dispute, they placed themselves in the arbitration of John Chapman and Richard Neuman, on the part of Costyne, and John Northay and Thomas Wakeswell on the part of AF. As security that they would both adhere to the arbitration, provided that this was made before Easter then next (1428) and that Costyne was in the country and had sufficient warning, they made these two bonds and delivered them to Worsop on the said day under certain conditions, namely that if they both adhered to the arbitration, or no arbitration was made by the said Easter, then they would be returned; however, if the arbitration is made, and either party refuses to adhere to it, the bonds shall be delivered to the other party. Costyne, protesting that he was not given sufficient warning, states that the arbitration was made while he was overseas and not while he was in England. His bond to AF should therefore be returned to him.

Pleading: AF states that Costyne has said nothing in court to dispute that the bond in which he is bound to Costyne should be returned to him, and thus seeks delivery. This bond is therefore delivered to him, and Worsop is amerced. Regarding the other bond, he states that it is true that they placed themselves in arbitration as claimed, concerning the construction and repair of the whole of a certain wall, namely to which of them this pertained, and they made the bonds and delivered them to Worsop, on the terms stated. He states that the arbiters accepted this task, and on 25 March 1428, at Finsbury, they adjudged that the right to repair and construct the entire wall pertained to Costyne, and he should repair it at his own cost. However, Costyne has refused to do this, and thus the bond by which Costyne was bound to AF ought to be delivered to him. They were not delivered on any condition regarding half the wall, nor that the arbitration had to be made while Costyne was in the country. He seeks judgment.

Pleading: Costyne says that the bonds were delivered to Worsop on the condition that the arbiters reach judgment concerning half this wall before Easter 1428, and that he be in the realm of England and be given reasonable warning. Parties on country, jury here at octave of Trinity 1429.

Postea text: [on CP 40/671, rot 191d] AF and Worsop come, as does Costyne. Sheriff returns that he made it known to John Costyne by William Cartere and John West. Day given to all parties at octave of Hilary 1429.

Postea text: All parties come, day given at quindene of Easter 1429.

Postea text: [on CP 40/673, rot 302] Parties came, jury in respite to octave of St John the Baptist 1429. On that day, parties come, jury says that the bonds were not delivered to Worsop under the conditions claimed by Costyne. Damages assigned to AF for his great delays and expenses at 8m. Order that AF recover the bond against Costyne, and have delivery from Worsop. Worsop amerced.

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/673, rot 302.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 191d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 20s
Costs: 80s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: John T., John S., and Robert F., claim that Adam V. owes them £27 5s per a bond. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. And upon this JT, JS, and RF say that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: Av says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making he was imprisoned by JT, JS, RF and others of their coven at Bodmin, Cornwall.

Pleading: JT, JS, and RF say that AV was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seek inquiry upon the country, and AV puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Cornwall to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as the morrow of All Souls 1429 (Michaelmas term 1429), unless the case is first head at the assize of Launceston, Cornwall, on 05/08/1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - plaintiffs JT, JS and RF come to this day (the morrow of All Souls 1429) and insert a record of the case as heard at the assize of Launceston, Cornwall, on 05/08/1429 before justices John M. and John C. At that assize, a jury found that AV made the bond of his own free will, and so decided that the plaintiffs ought to recover the aforesaid debt, 20s damages, and 20s costs. Also, the justices, at the plaintiffs' request, awarded the plaintiffs an additional 60s for costs. Therefore, the plaintiffs were to recover the aforesaid debt plus a total of 100s in costs and damages.

Postea text: postea 3 - 14/07/1430, JT and JS come before the court and acknowledge that they have been satisfies concerning the aforesaid debt and damages. Therefore AV is quit.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 231

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Surrey
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Damages awarded: 100s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Robert A. claims that William K. owes him £8 per two bonds of £4 each. Both of these bonds were made on 02/04/1428, one being due on 09/04/1428 and the other being due in the nativity of St John the Baptist 1428 (24/06/1428). Damages are claimed at £10. And upon this RA says that the bonds were made at Southwark, Surrey.

Pleading: WK says that the force of the bonds ought not hold because at the time of their making he was imprisoned by RA and others of his coven at York.

Pleading: WK says that RA was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks enquiry upon the country, and RA seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of the city of York to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as the quindene of Easter term 1429, unless the case is first heard at assize before chief justice William B. on 16/03/1429 in the Guildhall of the city of York.

Postea text: postea 2 - RA comes to this day (the quindene of Easter 1429) and inserts a record of the case as heard at heard at assize before chief justice WB and associate justice John Drayton on 16/03/1429 in the Guildhall of the city of York. This record says that defendant WK did not go to the assize and so a jury was taken against him for default. A jury thus found that WK made the bonds of his own free will, just as plaintiff RA claimed. Therefore, it was decided that RA ought to recover the aforesaid debt plus damages of 100s.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 301

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Trespass (against statute)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Breach of Statute; Embracery; Maintenance

Pleading: John W., citing the statute against maintaining or sustaining the suits of others, claims that on 07/07/1428 in the parish of St Mary Whitechapel, Middlesex, John C. maintained and sustained and a suit of trespass now before the Common Pleas by writ of the lord king between JW and a certain John A.; in which case JA has accused JW of breaking his close at Willesden (Middlesex) and felling trees to the value of £20 etc. (case appearing in this database as C40/669 rot.104.). Damages are claimed at £40

Pleading: JC says that, at the time of the quarrel being prosecuted between JW and JA, the same JA was in JC's service as his carter, retained for one year. The same JA thus came to JC at Islington (Middlesex) so as to seek the advice of his master. JC says that he thus counselled JA that he ought to go to the court of the lord king at Westminster and retain someone skilled in the law, in whatever suit, concerning the prosecution of the aforesaid quarrel (quod accederet ad Cur' Westmin' et ibidem secum retineret aliquem legis peritum…). This, JC is prepared to verify etc.

Pleading: JW, not acknowledging that JA was the servant of JC, says that on 07/07/1428, in the parish of St Mary Whitechapel, Middlesex, JS distributed diverse sums of money to certain jurors empanelled between JW and JA in the aforesaid suit, namely 13s 4d each to John K., John R., Robert I., Robert A, and John E. JW says that in this way JC sustained the aforesaid suit.

Pleading: JC says that he did not distribute money to the aforesaid jurors in the manner aforesaid and seeks inquiry upon the country, and JW seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Middlesex to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Middlesex did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Case notes: Related to CP40/669 rot.104.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 309

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William O. claims that Hildebrand, executor of the will of Robert H., together with co-executors Robert N., Stephen F., William T., and Thomas M., owe him £17 on two bonds £8 10s each, made between WO and the late RH. WO says that he made both of these bonds with the late RH at London (parish and ward left blank) on 01/10/1423, one being due on 31/10/1423 and the other being due on 01/02/1424. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: HE says that the late RH, after the making of the aforesaid will, revoked everything contained in the same will and thoroughly exonerated HE concerning the execution of that will at Bridport, Dorset; the same RH then later dying intestate. HE says that after the death of RH, who had goods and chattels in the diocese of the bishop (sic) of Canterbury, HE was himself granted administration of RH's goods and chattels by the prerogative court of the same bishop. HE says that this makes him the 'administrator' of the late RH, and not the 'executor' of RH as stated in WO's writ. Therefore HE seeks judgement on the writ.

Pleading: WO says that RH, after making the aforesaid will, continued for the whole of his life to wish it to be enforced after his death. This, WO is prepared to verify.

Pleading: HE reiterates his claim that he was discharged from the execution of the aforesaid will prior to RH's death and puts himself upon the country, and WO puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Dorset to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: 3 posteas - all say that the sheriff of Dorset did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Michaelmas term 1429.

Case notes: Related to CP40/667 rot.474.; related to CP40/674 rot.570d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 309d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 20m
Damages awarded: 40s
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Prior William M. of the cathedral priory of Canterbury claims that parson John L. of the parish church of St Mary Magdalen Milk Street, London, owes him £17 10s arrears on an annual rent of 10s. Prior WM says that a certain John F., lately prior of the cathedral priory of Canterbury, was seised of an annual rent of 10s by the right of the cathedral church, which rent was paid by a certain William B, lately parson of St Mary Magdalen Milk Street and all of his predecessors to the same late prior JF and all his predecessors etc. annually at Michaelmas from time immemorial etc. However this rent has not been paid for 35 years prior to the day of the making of prior WM's original writ on [date omitted], for which he is owed £17 10s. Damages are claimed at 20m.

Pleading: Parson JL says that he is parson of the church of St Mary Magdalen at the presentation of the dean and chapter of the cathedral church of St Paul's, London, and that he found that same church to have been totally discharged concerning the aforesaid annual rent. Parson JL says that he is not able to charge or discharge the said parish church without his local ordinary, Bishop of London William G., and the dean and chapter of St Paul's. Therefore parson JL seeks the assistance of bishop WG and the dean and chapter of St Paul's. Therefore the sheriff of London is to summon the bishop of London WM, as well as the dean and chapter of London, to be at this court in Hilary term 1429. Parson JL and prior WM are given day in the same term.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of London returns that the writ reached him too late and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - parson JL and prior WM come, but neither bishop WG nor the dean and chapter of London come to aid parson JL. And upon this parson JL says that he is not able to deny the action of the now prior WM, nor that he owes the aforesaid annual rent, nor the £17 10s arrears on the same rent, nor that prior WM and his predecessors were seised of the aforesaid annual rent of the aforesaid church of St Mary Magdalen from time immemorial until the day of the making of prior WM's original writ. Therefore it is decided that prior WM is to recover the aforesaid arrears predating the making of his original writ as well as rents due from the day of the making of that writ until the present day, all together totalling £18 10s, plus damages of 40s as assessed by this court with the assent of prior WM. Parson JL is in mercy.

Case notes: Related to CP 40/664, rot 465.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 316

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Damages awarded: 12d
Costs: 8m 12s 4d
Case type: Arbitration; Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: William D. claims that on 24/08/1428 'William C. the son of Niclolas C.' used force and arms to break his house at London and take his goods and chattels to the value of £20. The goods taken were namely: '6 dozen (pieces?) of blue worsted' (sex duodenas de worstede blodii coloris); 8 pieces of white fustian; 6 pieces of black fustian; 12 dublets (diplotecias) of white fustian; 4 dublets of black fustian; 6 dublets of russet fustian; 2 blue outer-garments (togas); one green outer-garment; 4 tunics (tunicas); and 4 …[damage]… shirts (camisias). Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: Concerning the use of force and arms WC says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and WD puts himself likewise. Concerning the remainder of the supposed trespass WC, protesting that the goods in question were of less value than has been claimed by the plaintiff, says that WD's action against him ought not continue because after the time aforesaid he and plaintiff WD submitted to arbitration at Bristol, in the parish of St Thomas the Martyr [no date given]. WC says that at this arbitration, before arbiters William M. and John B., it was ordained that WC ought to give WD one gallon of red wine to be drank in good fellowship (bona societate) in full satisfaction of the aforesaid trespass. WC says that he gave WD this gallon of wine in keeping with the arbiters' decision.

Pleading: WD, protesting that he never submitted himself to arbitration, ordination, or judgement; and protesting that WM and JB were never arbiters concerning the aforesaid trespass; say that he ought to have his action against WC because the supposed arbitration described by defendant WC never happened. WD seeks inquiry upon the country, and WC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Bristol to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as the quindene Easter term 1429, unless the case is first heard before chief baron of the exchequer John J. at the Bristol assize on 03/03/1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - to this day (the quindene of Easter term 1429) comes WD. And chief baron JJ inserts this record of the Bristol assize, where the case was heard on 03/03/1429 before chief baron JJ and associate justice John W. To that assize came plaintiff WD by his attorney, John G., and defendant WC by his attorney, Thomas P. There, a jury of the country said on oath that no such arbitration was had before the aforesaid arbiters between WD and WC, just as WD had claimed. Therefore it was decided by the jury that WD should recover 12d damages plus 9s costs. And upon this WD asked the justices to increase his award for costs, which the justices then increased by 8m 3s 4d. Therefore WD was to recover a total of 9m.

Postea text: postea 3 - 12/11/1431 WD comes before this court and acknowledges satisfaction concerning the aforesaid debt and damages. Therefore WC is quit. And upon this WC, who is present in the court is to be committed to the Fleet prison where he is to remain. Upon which, WC seeks to make fine with the lord king to be admitted to the king's peace. WC is admitted to the king's peace for a fine of 2s, per the pledges of Nicholas C. and William B. Therefore WC is released from the Fleet Prison and the warden of the Fleet is quit of him.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 318

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Leicestershire
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 40m
Case type: Arbitration; Taking of goods

Pleading: Alice B. claims that on 20 May 1428, at Loughborough, Joan W., widow of William W. forcibly took and carried away her goods and chattels worth £20, namely one blue gown furred with squirrel, one murrey gown furred with squirrel, one gown of musterdevillers furred with rabbit, one green gown lined with buckram, one murrey huke, one white tunic, one red tunic, two blue tunics, one pair of hose, two pair of galoshes (galoches), one cloak of murrey (capicum), one violet cloak, one green cloak, one bed cover, one pair of [lost], one sheet, one cushion (pulvinare), one shirt, one silk kerchief called a 'paryssh kerchyf', one towel, one primer (primerum), one mirror, one chest containing 'diverse things', half of one [lost], two pairs of fur lined gloves called 'cuffes'; one pair of quart bottles, one gold ring and 100 'tavellos'. Damages claimed at 40m.

Pleading: JW denies force and arms; parties on country. Concerning the rest, JW, protesting that the goods were not of such great a value as claimed, states that AB ought not have her action, as before the said 20 March, namely on 28 April 1427, in the parish of St Mildred Bread Street, Alice was retained by Joan to teach her the art of cordwainer, and as a household servant, for one year, taking wages of 13s 4d. However, during that time, Alice fell pregnant, and left her service. On this, the other trespass and all other disputes, the two agreed to stand in the arbitration of William Neweby and Isabel Frowyk, on 28 March 1428, when the arbiters ordained that the trespass of Alice exceeded those by Joan, and Alice was thus to pay Joan 20s in compensation. Therefore all trespasses between them before that day are quit.

Pleading: AB, protesting that there was never any such arbitration, states that she never agreed to stand in arbitration before these arbiters, as alleged. Enquiry by country, sheriff of London to have jury of St Mildred Bread Street here at octave of Hilary. Pledges named for defendant.

Postea text: Sheriff did not send writ, to quindene of Easter 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 319d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Memorandum that John K. and William B., on 06/11/1425, present to the justices a certain bill in which it is claimed that John Burlegh, one of the attorneys of the common bench, owes them 40s as the unpaid residue of a 6m bond. JK and WB acknowledge satisfaction concerning the other 40s of the aforesaid 6m bond. Pledges of the prosecution are named in the bill. Damages are claimed at 40s. JK and WM present the bond to the court, and upon this say that it was made at London etc.

Pleading: John Burlegh says that the force of the bond ought not hold because it is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and the plaintiffs, JK and WB, put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. The bond is given to clerk Robert D. for safe keeping.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 320d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Richard F. claims that John B. owes him £40 as the unpaid residue of a £224 bond. RF acknowledges satisfaction concerning the other £184 of the aforesaid £224 bond. Damages are claimed at 40m. Bond shown in court. And upon this RF says that the bond was made at London [parish and ward left blank].

Pleading: JB defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429.

Pleading: [Further information drawn from CP 40/673, rot 110d - Easter 1429] JB says that he ought not be held to the aforesaid £40 debt because after the time of the aforesaid bond's making plaintiff RF issued him an acquittance concerning the same £40 unpaid residue of the aforesaid £224 bond; RF acknowledging himself by this document to have been paid. JB presents this acquittance to the court, made at Bristol on 2 October 1428.

Pleading: RF says that his action ought to continue because the release which JB has presented to this court refers to the part payment of the £184 of the original £224, which £184 JB did indeed pay and which RF has already acknowledged that JB paid, prior to the making of his original writ. RF says that the release shown does not however refer to the aforesaid £40 unpaid residue, of the aforesaid £224 bond which, which he seeks in this present suit.

Pleading: JB says that the £40 referred to in the release is money that he paid to RF in addition to the other £184 of the aforesaid £224 bond and puts himself upon the country, and RF puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Bristol to make a jury come in Trinity term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - JB seeks further licence to imparl as far as Easter term 1429.

Case notes: Further information drawn from CP40/673 rot.110d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 321d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Fraud
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: John R. claims that on 01/04/1428 at London he bargained with John G. for 12 quarters of bean flour (farine fabarum) which JG fraudulently warranted as good though JG knew it to be putrid. JR says that he bought this flour from JG for 40s, only to discover that it was unfit and putrid, and claims damages of 100s.

Pleading: JG says that the aforesaid flour was not putrid at the time the deal was made, claiming that JR viewed and tasted the flour at that time, and agreed that it was fit.

Pleading: JR reiterates that JG fraudulently warranted the flour as fit, knowing full well that it was putrid. JR seeks inquiry upon the country, and JG seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 326d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John M. claims that John B., executor of the will of John E., together with co-executor Richard G., owes him £4 on a bond made between JM himself and the late JE. JM claims that he made this £4 bond with the late JE on 7 February 1419 in Candlewick Street ward in London [parish name omitted], and that it was to be paid in two payments of 40s each, at Christmas 1419 and Christmas 1420. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JB says that the action against him ought not continue because he has already made full administration of the goods and chattels which were of the late JE at the time of his death, and had done so by the day of JM's original writ.

Pleading: JM says that on the day of the making of his original writ, namely [omitted], JB still had unadministered goods of the late JE sufficient to satisfy the debt, namely in London in the parish aforesaid [omitted]. JM seeks inquiry upon the country, and JB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 329d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Abduction; Arbitration

Pleading: John Skydmore claims that Richard M., together with John W., used force and arms to seize and abduct JS's apprentice Nicholas W. John Skydmore seeks damages of £20.

Pleading: RM says that the action against him ought not continue because himself and John Skydmore have, since the time of the supposed trespass, undertaken arbitration at Melksham, Wiltshire, on 02/02/1428, before arbiters John Sok on the part of John Skydmore and Robert Burges on the part of RM. RM says that these arbiters, after considering all trespasses between RM and John Skydmore, ordained that RM ought to give John Skydmore one gallon of beer to settle all disputes between them. All this RM is prepared to verify.

Pleading: John Skydmore says that he never placed himself in arbitration with RM before the aforesaid arbiters and seeks inquiry upon the country, and RM seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Wiltshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: 2 posteas - both say that the sheriff of Wiltshire did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Trinity term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 330d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Thomas S. and John C. claim that Thomas L. owes them 5m per a bond. Bond shown in court. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: TL asks to hear the bond and its endorsements read. The condition on the bond is if TL were to pay or make to be paid to TS and JC 16s 8d in the feast of Easter 1426 (31/03/1426) and 16s 8d in the feast of Michaelmas 1426 (29/09/1426) then the bond should be null and void. TL, upon hearing this, says that he fulfilled the terms of the bond (i.e. paid these monies), namely at Cheddar, Somerset.

Pleading: TC and JS say that TL did not pay them the 16s 8d due in the feast of Michaelmas 1426 (29/09/1426), and seek judgement.

Pleading: TL says that he did make the payment of Michaelmas 1426 and puts himself upon the country, and the plaintiffs, TS and JC, put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of Somerset to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 338

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Lincolnshire
Writ type: Trespass (against statute)
Damages claimed: £1000
Case type: Breach of Statute; Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: William atte See and Richard Quadryng amerced for many defaults. Walter T. claims that on 9 April 1425, at Bratoft in Lincolnshire, WA, RQ, John K., William K., Ralph H., Simon R., Robert N., and Robert C. made a conspiracy between them, claiming that John B., John R., and John W., with the support of WT, feloniously broke the close of Humphrey, duke of Gloucester at Highgate, Middlesex, on 6 October 1425, and took 6 oxen and 19 cows worth a total of £20, in the keeping of JK, Simon S., Roger S., Robert M, and SR. Consequently, an action was brought against him at Westminster before the lord king at the octave of Trinity 1426 and on 8 July 1426 he was arrested and put in the prison of the Marshalsea, until on 25 October 1426, when, according to the law and custom of the land he was acquitted. Thus WT is suing the defendants for making false and malicious claims against him contrary to the form of the ordinances, and claims damages of £1000.

Pleading: WA, RQ, JK, WK, RH, SR, RN, and RC defend and seek licence to imparl to the octave of Hilary 1429, with the assent of WT.

Postea text: 3 further licences to imparl, with the assent of WT, to the octave of Michaelmas 1425.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 357

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Bedfordshire
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 20m
Damages awarded: 10s
Costs: 30s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William P. is in mercy for many defaults. Geoffrey B. claims that WP owes him £10 as the unpaid residue of a £12 bond. Damages are claimed at 20m. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: WP sys that the bond is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and GB puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Bedfordshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. The bond is given to chief clerk Robert D. for safe keeping.

Postea text: postea 1 - 12/ 02/1429 chief clerk RD delivers the bond to delivered to ... [damage] ... for consideration by a jury, and so RD is quit of it.

Postea text: postea 2 - the case is placed in respite as far as Easter term (1429) unless the case is first heard at the Bedford assize on 28/02/1429.

Postea text: postea 3 - to this day (Easter term 1429) comes GB and justice ... [damaged] ... who present to the court a record of the Bedford assize, where the case was heard before justices William W. and John F. on 28/08/1429. To this assize came WP and GB, as well as a jury who said on oath that the bond was indeed of WP's making. The jury thus decided that GB should recover the aforesaid debt plus 10s costs and 10s damages, as assessed by the jury. GB then asked the justices to increase his award, and so the justices granted GB a further 20s, making GB's total award for costs and damages 40s.

Postea text: postea 4 - 15/04/1429, justice John C. returns the bond to clerk RD, and so JC is quit of it.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 364

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Surrey
Writ type: Debt (bond); Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment; Sale of goods

Pleading: Robert H. claims that William K. owes him £4 10s arising from a 74s 3d bond, made on 21/03/11426 and due on 19/05/1426; and the sale of five casks (cados) of woadashes which WK bought from RH for 16s 8d on 21/10/1425 but never paid for. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court. And upon this RH says that the bond was made at Southwark.

Pleading: Concerning the 16s 8d arising from the supposed sale of goods, WK says that he does not owe RH these or any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and RH puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. Concerning the bond of 74s 3d, WK says that he ought not be held to that bond because he was imprisoned by RH and others of his coven at Hereford when the bond was made.

Pleading: RH says that WK was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks inquiry upon the country, and RH seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hereford to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 398d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: John E. claims that Richard M. owes him 20m as the unpaid residue of a £18 10s bond, made on 10/09/1427 and due on 25/10/1427. JE acknowledges that he has been satisfied for the other 103s 4d of the aforesaid £18 10s. Damages are claimed at £20. Bond shown in court. And upon this JE says that the bond was made in the parish of St Clement Danes, Middlesex.

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

Pleading: JE says that RM was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks inquiry upon the country, and RM seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. And upon this RM puts (attorney) Edward F. in his place versus JE in this plea.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 402

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Thomas P. claims that Richard I. owes him £6 2s 6d per a bond. Damages are claimed at 100s. Bond shown in court. And upon this RI says that the bond was made

Pleading: RI says that the bond is not of his making and puts himself upon the country, and TP puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. The bond is given to chief clerk Robert D. for safe keeping.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of London did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as the octave of the Purification of ST Mary 1429 (late in Hilary term 1429).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 402

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40m
Damages awarded: 20s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Nicholas J. claims that Thomas M. owes him £39 per a bond. Damages are claimed at 40m. Bond shown in court. And upon this NJ says that the bond was made at London etc.

Pleading: TM defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: 2 posteas - both further licences to imparl, forwarding the case as far as Trinity term 1429.

Postea text: postea 3 - TM does not come and so is in default. Therefore the decision is that NJ is to recover the aforesaid £39 plus 20s damages. TM is in mercy.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 402d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: William J. claims that John B. owes him 40s arrears of rent. William J. claims that on 25/09/1424 at Westminster he demised to John B. one messuage and one garden with appurtenances at Westminster, to be held by JB from Michaelmas 1424 (29/09/1424) for one full year then next following, and thereafter at the will of WJ. In return, WJ was to be paid 26s 8d annually at the four terms of Christmas 1424 (25/12/1424), the annunciation of St Mary 1425 (25/03/1425), the nativity of St John 1425 (24/06/1425), and Michaelmas 1425 (29/09/1425). WJ says that by force of this demise JB occupied the aforesaid messuage and garden for one and a half years, from Michaelmas 1424 to the annunciation of St Mary 1426, but did not pay the agreed rent, thereby falling 40s into arrears. WJ claims damages of 40s.

Pleading: JB says that he does not owe WJ the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and WJ puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the quindene of Martinmas 1428 (late in Michaelmas term 1428).

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as the quindene of Trinity term 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - a jury comes and says on oath that JB does not owe WJ the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies. Therefore the decision is that WJ is to have nothing per his writ, and is in mercy for false claim. JB is quit concerning the aforesaid debt, and without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 402d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (loan); Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 40s
Damages awarded: 10s
Costs: 3s 4d
Case type: Loan; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: William J. claims that John K. owes him 40s arising from 35s 9d arrears of rent, and a 4s 3s loan. William J. claims that on 19/06/1424 at Westminster he demised to John K. one messuage and one garden with appurtenances at Westminster, to be held by JK from the nativity of St John 1424 (24/06/1424) for one full year then next following, and thereafter at the will of WJ. In return, WJ was to be paid 33s annually at the four terms of Michaelmas 1424 (29/09/1424) Christmas 1424 (25/12/1424), the annunciation of St Mary 1425 (25/03/1425) and the nativity of St John 1425 (24/06/1425). WJ says that by force of this demise JB occupied the aforesaid messuage and garden for one year and one month, but did not pay the aforesaid rent, thereby falling 35s 9d into arrears. Additionally, on the same 19/06/1424, WJ loaned JK 4s 3d which was to be repaid upon request. WJ says that he has often asked for this loan to be repaid, as well as for the back rent, but has not been paid. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: JK says that he does not owe WJ the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and puts himself upon the country, and WJ puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the quindene of Martinmas 1428 (late in Michaelmas term 1428).

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as Trinity term 1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - a jury comes and says on oath that JK owes WJ 13s 4d of the aforesaid 35s 9d arrears of rent. WJ is to recover these monies plus damages of 10s and costs of 3s 4d. The jury also says that JK does not owe WJ any of the 26s 8d residue of the aforesaid 40s. Therefore the decision is that WJ is to recover 13s 4d in back rents plus 13s 4d costs and damages, and JK is in mercy concerning this. Similarly, WJ is in mercy (for false claim?) concerning the remaining 26s 8d, of which JK is acquitted and without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 411d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (against statute)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Breach of Statute; Contract (service/employment)

Pleading: Thomas P. claims that on 10/04/1418 at London, in the parish of St James Garlickhithe, Vintry Ward, he retained Richard C. in the office of 'attending to him honourably, with food and with drink, and riding with him, and keeping his horse as often and whenever the TP ought to ride' from the aforesaid 10/04/1418 for the seven years then next following. However, TP says that RC withdrew from his service prematurely, without TP's licence or reasonable, cause at London in the parish and ward aforesaid in the feast of Michaelmas 1422 (29/09/1422), in breach of the statute of labourers and in contempt of the king. Damages are claimed at £100.

Pleading: RC claims that he served TP faithfully in the office aforesaid until the said Michaelmas 1422, at which time TP did not find him suitable and sufficient victuals. RC says that he requested victuals to sustain him, and when they were not found he withdrew from TP's service, as he has good licence to do.

Pleading: TP says that in the feast of Michaelmas 1422 he found for RC suitable and sufficient victuals and concerning this TP seeks inquiry upon the country, and RC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as Easter term in five weeks 1429 unless the case is first heard before justice John C. at the assize of St Martin le Grand on 21/04/1429.

Postea text: postea 2 - to this day (Easter term in five weeks 1429) comes RC, and justice JC inserts this record of the case as heard at the assize of St Martin le grand on 21/04/1429 before justice JC himself and associate justice William P. At that assize a jury found that TP had not found victuals for RP in Michaelmas 1422, and so RC had left with reasonable cause. Therefore TP is to have nothing per his writ. RC is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 415

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: John P. claims that Thomas A. has not rendered reasonable account concerning the time when TA acted as JP's receiver. JP says that he made TA his receiver of monies on 04/05/1418, for the two years then next following. JP says that during this time TA received on his behalf, at London in the parish of St Vedast, ward of Farringdon Within, 30s per the hands of Isabel K and 30s per the hands of W..[damage] Blakbourne. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: TA says that the action against him ought not continue because after the aforesaid time during which it is supposed that he acted as JP's receiver of monies he rendered full account at Compton Chamberlayne, Wiltshire, to JP himself, concerning the aforesaid monies.

Pleading: JP says that TA never had an such accounting with him concerning the aforesaid monies and seeks inquiry upon the country, and TA seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Wiltshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: 10 posteas - all say that the sheriff of Wiltshire did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Hilary term 1432.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 415

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Thomas D. claims that John S. owes him £30 11s on two bonds, one bond in £10 11s was made on 03/03/1425 and due in Easter 1425 (08/04/1425), and the other bond in £20 was made on 04/02/1426 and due in Easter 1426 (31/03/1426). Damages are claimed at 20m. Bonds shown in court.

Pleading: JS defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429, with the assent of TD.

Pleading: [Further information drawn from CP40/672 rot.312d - Hilary 1429] JS says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making he was imprisoned by TD and others of his coven at Hatfield Peverel, Essex.

Pleading: TD says that JS was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks inquiry upon the country, and JS seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Essex to make a jury come in Easter term 1429.

Case notes: further information drawn from CP40/672 rot.312d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 417

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Bishop Thomas L., William S., William B., Nicholas D., John A., Thomas W., and Robert S., executors of the will of bishop John W., claim that Thomas F. owes them 50m as the unpaid residue of a 100m bond made between TF and the late bishop JW. The executors say that this bond was made between TF and the late bishop JW at London on 12/12/1414 and due at the feast of Trinity 1415 (26/05/1415), but that 50m of the aforesaid 100m has gone unpaid. Damages are claimed at 100m. Bond shown in court, as well as letters testamentary concerning the late bishop JW, which show the plaintiffs to be JW's executors etc.

Pleading: TF defends, and says that the action against him ought not continue because the aforesaid executor RS, after the death of bishop JW, issued him a release, which same release TF presents to the court. This release was given on 03/01/1427 at Fordingbridge, Hampshire.

Pleading: The executors say that RS only made the release under duress because he was imprisoned by TF and others of TF's coven at Norwich, at the time of the release's making.

Pleading: TF says that RS was a free man at the time of the bond's making and puts himself upon the country, and the executors put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of Norwich to make a jury come in Hillary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Norwich did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 417d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Buckinghamshire
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Alice Golofre, abbess of Burnham Abbey, Buchinghamshire, is in mercy for many defaults. John T. claims that abbess AG owes him £30 16s on a bond made between himself and the late former abbess Elizabeth W. Damages are claimed at 40m. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: AG defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429, with the assent of JT.

Pleading: [Further information drawn from CP40/672 rot.129d - Hilary 1429] Abbess AG says that the force of the bond ought not hold because the (plaintiff) JT, long before the time of the bond's making was bailiff of the said late abbess EW, having care and administration of the goods and chattels of the late abbess EW in the said abbey. The same JT at the time of the making of the aforesaid bond came to the late abbess EW and offered her the aforesaid bond to seal, asserting that the same abbess ought to profit of £100 and the security/gain (percepcoe') of her same house by way that bond. Abbess AG says that the same late abbess was a woman of religion knew how to read Latin letters, but that the sense and exposition of which she little understood. And so, the aforesaid JT explained to her the meaning of the bond in English, saying that the late abbess ought to gain £100. Abbess AG says that it was under this false understanding that the late abbess EW sealed the aforesaid bond, and that (by its actual meaning) it was therefore not of her making. Concerning this, abbess AG puts herself upon the country, and plaintiff JT puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Buckinghamshire to make a jury come in Easter term 1429.

Postea text: 3 posteas - all say that the sheriff of Buckinghamshire did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Hilary term 1430.

Postea text: postea 4 - Abbess AG comes by her attorney (William S.) but plaintiff JT does not come. Therefore, abbess AG is without day. JT and his pledges of the prosecution are in mercy. And, it shall be understood that the aforesaid bond ought to be returned, in this court, to the aforesaid JT. Therefore clerk Robert D. is quit of it.

Case notes: further information drawn from CP40/672 rot.129d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 440d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Abduction; Imprisonment

Pleading: John Snell and Richard Snell are in mercy for many defaults. John Slygh and his wife Elizabeth Slygh claim that 06/06/1428 John Snell and Richard Snell used force and arms to seize and imprison Elizabeth and inflict other enormities upon her at London. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: John Snell and Richard Snell say that they are innocent and put themselves upon the country, and the plaintiffs, John Slygha and Elizabeth Slygh, put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in Hillary term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 450

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Edward Hunte states that on 1 July 1427 John Hautoft made a bond with him in 100s, payable at the Nativity of St John the Baptist then next, but has not paid, to his damage of 100s. EH states that the bond was made in the London parish of St Dunstan in the West, Farringdon Within ward.

Pleading: JH says that EH ought not have his action, as by a document which he shows in court, sealed with the seal of EH and dated 2 July 1427 in the said parish and ward, he and EH agreed that if JH should pay EH this 100s in payments of 13s 4d at the feasts of the Nativity of St John the Baptist in 1428, 1429, 1430, 1431 and 1432, and 33s 4d at the Nativity of St John the Baptist 1433, then the bond should be void. JH says that he has paid the instalments due so far, according to the terms of the agreement, in the said parish and ward.

Pleading: EH says that JH did not make the 13s 4d payment due at the Nativity of St John the Baptist 1428, and therefore the bond is due.

Pleading: JH says that he paid this 13s 4d. Parties on country, jury here at Hilary term 1429. Pledges named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 501d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Surrey
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: John K. claims that John P., together with John S., John W., and John J. on 1 December 1426 used force and arms to break his house at Southwark, Surrey, from which they took and carried off JK's goods and chattels to the value of 40m. The goods taken were namely seven silver cups, a dozen silver spoons, woollen and linen sheets, and other household utensils. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: JP says that he is innocent and puts himself upon the country, and JK puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey to make a jury come at the octave of Hilary 1429. Pledges named for the defendant.

Postea text: Sheriff did not send the writ, to quindene of Easter 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 509

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 10m
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Abbot John P. claims that William C owes him £10 per a bond. Damages are claimed at 10m. Bond shown in court. Upon this abbot JP says that the bond was made at London.

Pleading: William C. says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making he was imprisoned at Wateringbury, Kent, by abbot JP and his associates.

Pleading: Abbot JP says that WC made the bond of his own free will and seeks inquiry upon the country, and WC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Kent to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Kent returns that the writ reached him too late and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 509

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 10m
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Abbot John P. claims that William C owes him 10m per a bond. Damages are claimed at 10m. Bond shown in court. Upon this abbot JP says that the bond was made at London.

Pleading: William C. says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making he was imprisoned at Wateringbury, Kent, by abbot JP and other of the abbot's coven.

Pleading: Abbot JP says that WC made the bond of his own free will and seeks inquiry upon the country, and WC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Kent to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Kent returns that the writ reached him too late and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 509d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Loan

Pleading: Alice T. claims that Thomas L. owes her 40s per a loan. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: TL says that he does not owe AT the aforesaid 40s nor any other monies and offers his law, to be made in Hilary term 1429. Pledges of law are named. And upon this TL's attorney, WC, is ordered to have his master to this court to make his law in the term aforesaid.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 509d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: 200m
Case type: Safe keeping

Pleading: Alice T. claims that Thomas S. unjustly detains a certain bag containing charters writings and other muniments. AT says that on 20.07/1426 she gave this bag (with contents) to a certain Mabel L., at London (St Nicholas Shambles, Farringdon Within), for safe keeping. Then afterwards John L. the son of ML, seized the bag (with contents) from ML and delivered it to the defendant TS on 08/10/1426 (also in St Nicholas Shambles, Farringdon Within), which same TS now refuses to return it to AT. Damages are claimed at 200m.

Pleading: TS says that he does not detain the aforesaid bag and puts himself upon the country, and AT puts herself likewise.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 509d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Abboth John P. claims that William C owes him 100s per a bond. Damages are claimed at 100s. Bond shown in court. Upon this abbot JP says that the bond was made at London.

Pleading: William C. says that the force of the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making he was imprisoned at Wateringbury, Kent, by abbot JP and other of the abbot's coven.

Pleading: Abbot JP says that WC made the bond of his own free will and seeks inquiry upon the country, and WC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Kent to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Kent returns that the writ reached him too late and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 527d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Surrey
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £10
Damages awarded: 40s
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: John B. and John P. claim that William C. owes them £7 as determined by a reckoning of the account between them before auditors Rober H. and John S.; this accounting having been held at Croydon on 25/06/1427. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: WC defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429, with the assent of plaintiffs JB and JP.

Pleading: [Further information drawn from CP40/672 rot.132d. - Hilary 1429] WC says that he did not have an accounting before the aforesaid auditors and puts himself upon the country, and the plaintiffs, JB and JP, put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of Surrey to make a jury come in Easter term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - continuance between the parties as far as the quindene of Trinity term 1429, so that a jury may be placed.

Postea text: postea 2 - all parties come, as well as a jury, which says on oath that defendant WC did have an accounting before the aforesaid auditors, just as the plaintiffs claimed. Therefore plaintiffs JB and JP are to recover the aforesaid debt plus damages of 40s. WC is in mercy. And upon this the same WC, present in the court, is committed to the Fleet prison, where he is to remain.

Postea text: postea 3 - 11/06/1429 WC pays in this court, to JB and JP the aforesaid debt and damages. Therefore, WC is quit.

Case notes: Further information drawn from CP40/672 rot.132d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 528

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £50
Case type: Taking of goods

Pleading: John T. claims that on 1 August 1423, at London, Thomas Nanscothan used force and arms to take and carry off 1000 pounds of tin ingots belonging to JT, to the value of £40. Damages are claimed at £50.

Pleading: TN defends, and says that, whereas the writ identifies him as of 'Nancothan' there is in fact no such place in Cornwall as 'Nancothan', but there is an 'Over Nancothan' and 'Nether Nancothan'. TN seeks judgment on the writ.

Pleading: JT says that there is a place in Cornwall simply called 'Nanscothan'. Enquiry by country, jury here at octave of Hilary. TN puts John Polreden in his place against JT.

Postea text: 3 posteas - all say that the sheriff of Cornwall did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1430.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 529

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Essex
Writ type: Disseisin
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: William C. seeks against John F. 24 acres of land with appurtenances in Kedington (Essex) as his right, by writ of cessavit.

Pleading: JF, in person, seeks to have view etc. Day given at Easter five weeks.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 538d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Contract (general)

Pleading: Andrew R. claims that William H. owes him £20. AR says that on 09/02/1422 at London WH put his servant John C. with AR as a boarder (as suam tabulam commensalem), agreeing to pay AR for each full year 40s, and more for vestments, as much in linnens as in woollens, shoe-money, a bed etc. (40s et insuper pro vestura tam in lineis quam in laneis calcamentis lecto et ceteris) as should be necessary for JC. AR says that he faithfully discharged his part of this agreement, and although WH's servant JC was AR's boarder for eight years next following the aforesaid 09/09/1422, for which period AR ought to have received £16 plus 6m reimbursement for necessities provided to JC, WH has not paid AR anything. Thus this suit. Damages are claimed at £20.

Pleading: WH defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429.

Case notes: The dates in this case don't add up. The plaintiff claims to be seeking payment for 8 years room and board which he provided for the defendant's servant commencing Monday after the feast of the Purification of St Mary 9 Henr V (02/02/1422). However as the case being brought in Michaelmas term 1428, 8 years can not yet have elapsed since the making of the agreement.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 570d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Abduction; Taking of goods

Pleading: William H. claims that on 02/11/2422 at 'Newenham' [county not given] Andrew R. used force and arms to seize and carry off his goods and chattels to the value of 100s, namely one bed cover, two blue gowns, two blankets, two pair of sheets and linen and woollen cloth, and also abducted his servant John C. so that he was without JC's service for one entire year. Damages claimed at £20.

Pleading: AR denies the trespass as claimed. Parties on country, jury here at octave of Hilary. AR puts John H. in his place against WH in this case.

Case notes: County heading lost.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 587

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Sussex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John W. claims that Gilbert S. owes him 100s per a bond. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court. And upon this JW says that the bond was made at New Shoreham, Sussex.

Pleading: GS defends and seeks licence to imparl as far as Hilary term 1429. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 591

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: 10m
Case type: Arbitration; Loan

Pleading: William A. claims that on 12/05/1425, at Westminster, he loaned Katherine C. £10, to be repaid in Michaelmas 1425 (29/09/1425). However, KC has not repaid this £10 and thus the present suit. Damages are claimed at 10m.

Pleading: KC says that the action against her ought not continue because after the aforesaid 12/05/1425 she and WA submitted to the arbitration of arbiters John S. and John P. at Edington, Wiltshire, as much concerning the aforesaid £10 as all other trespassed and quarrels between them. KC says that these arbiters decided that KC ought to give WA one gallon of red wine in good fellowship (societate) in amends and satisfaction of all quarrels between herself and WA. KC says that she gave WA this wine in keeping with the arbitration and is prepared to verify this.

Pleading: WA says that he never submitted to any such arbitration before the said supposed arbiters and seeks inquiry upon the country, and KC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Wiltshire to make a jury come in Hilary term 1429.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff of Wiltshire did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Easter term 1429.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/671, rot. 591d

Term: Michaelmas 1428
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Disseisin
Damages awarded: 40s
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: A jury of recognitors comes to decide whether 24 acres of land in Shoreditch and the parish of St Giles without Cripplegate London are free alms pertaining to the prebend of Finsbury in the cathedral church of St Paul's, London, whence Richard Caudray is prebendary; or if those lands are free alms of the house and church of prioress Elizabeth A., prioress of the Priory of Haliwel, Middlesex. Richard Caudray says that a certain Robert Clerk, lately prebendary of Finsbury, was seised of the aforesaid lands as of right of the prebend of Finsbury as free alms in the time of the peace of the late king Henry IV, until he was disseised by a certain prioress Edith G., lately Prioress of Haliwel.

Pleading: Prioress EA says that the aforesaid lands are the free alms of Haliwell and belonged to her predecessor, prioress EG, and all of EG's predecessors, who have been seised of the aforesaid lands in fee etc. as perpetual alms since time immemorial. Prioress EA says that former prebend Robert Clerk entered upon the possession of former prioress EG and ejected her from the aforesaid free alms, in which state she dies seised of them as right of the house of Haliwell etc. Prioress EA says that she later re-entered the same lands, and that this is the cause of the present suit etc. Prioress EA puts herself upon the jury, and prebendary Richard Caudray puts himself likewise. Therefore, the cased is respited as far as the quindene of Martinmas 1428 (late in Michaelmas term 1428) because the jury did not come.

Postea text: 4 posteas - all say that because the jury did not come the case is placed in respite. The first three posteas forward the case as far as s Michaelmas term 1429. The fourth postea also forwards the case to the quindene of 'St. ...[damaged]', but the term to which the case is forwarded is illegible; probably the quindene of St Hilary (term) 1430, but impossible to know for sure.

Postea text: postea 5 - a jury comes to this day and says on oath that the aforesaid 24 acres are free alms pertaining to the prebend of Finsbury, and not the free alms of the priory of Haliwell. The jury also says on oath that a certain 'Robert son of Generannus' was seised of the aforesaid 24 acres in the reign of Henry III [the Fasti Ecclesiae Anglicanae 166-1300, vol.1. actually shows RG as prebendary in the Reign of Henry II, appearing 1114-1162], and that all prebendaries of Finsbury afterwards, including Robert Clerk, have also been seised of the aforesaid 24 acres of free alms, since time immemorial. The jury says that late prioress of Haliwell EG thus unjustly disseised former prebend of Finsbury Robert Clerk. Current prebendary Richard Caudray is to recover from current prioress EA 40s costs and damages and the aforesaid 24 acres of land.