The corporation of Great Grimsby

THE RECORDS OF THE CORPORATION OF GREAT GRIMSBY.

These records are preserved at the Town Hall, in fourteen large tin boxes, in the custody of the Town Clerk. They are for the most part in excellent preservation, but the contents of several of the boxes are in great disorder, the Fines and Sessions Papers especially being crumpled up in their boxes like so much waste paper. Much of this disorder, it is believed, is due to the unfortunate zeal of a former member of the Corporation in collecting seals, at a time, many years ago, when the Corporation had unrestricted access to the records; and the belief seems to receive some support from the fact that almost every seal has been removed from the Royal Charters and other deeds. The Court Books and Court Rolls, also, were until recently scattered about in various boxes, but this has now, with the permission of the Town Clerk, been remedied, and the boxes have been roughly arranged in the order in which they are dealt with in this Report.

The state of the Court Rolls, Sessions Papers, and Fines is such that it has not been possible, consistently with the instructions of the Commission, to do more than glance through the bundles in order to separate from them any documents of a different or more interesting character; and in this way many of the Royal letters, deeds, &c., calendared below, have been rescued from masses of comparatively valueless papers.

The thanks of the writer and of the Commission are due to the Corporation officials for their courtesy in facilitating this enquiry, and especially to W. Grange, Esq., the Town Clerk; also to Dr. E. L. Grange, the son of the Town Clerk, who has been instrumental in preserving several of the most interesting of the Royal and other letters printed in this Report.

The contents of the boxes are, roughly speaking, as follows:—

I. Royal Charters and Letters. Free School Deeds. Bailiffs' Extent Books.

II. Court Rolls.

III. Court Rolls and Sessions Papers.

IV. Court Books.

V. Court Rolls and Court Books.

VI. Court Books and Admissions of Freemen.

VII. Court Books.

VIII. Fines or Final Concords.

IX. Sacrament Certificates.

X. Chamberlains' Accounts (modern). Sessions Papers. Admissions.

XI. Chamberlains' Accounts (old). Election Returns. Admissions.

XII. and XIII. Printed Statutes.

XIV. Counterpart Leases.

Alfred Gibbons.

Royal Charters, &c.

11 Hen. III., June 20 [1227].—Charter granting to the men of Grimsby the town and liberties, subject to a fee-farm rent of 111l.; saving the King's purprestures and rents, if any. The seal is gone, but the silk remains.

40 Hen. III., May 27 [1256].—Charter confirming the grant of the town, with purprestures, and reducing the fee-farm rent to 50l., but reserving to the King the advowsons of the churches of Grimsby and Scartho.

12 Edw. II., June 4 [1319].—Charter inspecting and confirming the preceding charter, and granting to the men of Grimsby the return of the King's writs; immunity from being impleaded without the borough for matters arising therein, and from toll, murage, &c.; a gaol, &c. and extending the duration of the two yearly fairs. Endorsed with memoranda of its production in the Court of Common Pleas in Easter term 15 Edw. III. (rolls 112 and 240), and in the King's Bench in Michaelmas term 16 Edw. III. (roll 83).

37 Edw. III., July 12 [1363].—Letters patent exemplifying the above charter (here called "letters patent") of 4 June 12 Edw. II.

15 Ric. II., Nov. 25 [1391].—Letters patent inspecting and confirming a charter of 3 Nov. 43 Hen. III. [1258], regulating the trade of the borough, about which there had been disputes between the rich men and the poor men thereof, and containing curious provisions.

17 Hen. [VI.] Jan. 1 [1439].—Letters patent inspecting and confirming, with the assent of Parliament—.

Letters patent of 20 Jan. 2 Ric. II. [1379], inspecting and confirming the above letters patent of 12 July 37 Edw. III.

Letters patent of 25 Nov. 15 Ric. II., as above.

Letters patent of 24 April 15 Edw. III. [1341], granting certain waste and marsh lands to the borough.

This document is beautifully illuminated; part of the Great Seal remains.

1 Henry VIII., March 4 [1510].—Royal letters to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Burgesses of Grimsby, touching the holding of sessions, proclamations to be made thereat, offences to be dealt with, &c. Fragment of seal.

2 Henry VIII., June 29 [1510].—Letters patent inspecting and confirming—

Charter of 26 May 40 Henry III. [1256], granting to the townsmen immunity from arrest and distress for debt in cases where the principal debtors can be made to pay.

Letters patent of 1 Jan. 17 Hen. VI., as above.

Seal gone. Endorsed with a memorandum of its having been allowed by the Justices of Assize at Lincoln Castle, in a suit enrolled in Hilary term 7 Hen. VIII. (roll 288). There is also a contemporary copy of these letters patent.

2 Hen. VIII., Nov. 7 [1510].—Pardon to the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby. Seal gone.

1 Edw. VI., July 2 [1547]. A similar pardon. Seal gone.

1 & 2 Philip and Mary, 6 Feb. [1555]. Letters patent, of which only the last skin remains, (fn. 1) inspecting and confirming—

Charter of 9 June 55 [Hen. III., 1271], inspecting and confirming a charter of 11 March 2 John [1201], being a charter of liberties to the town, of the same tenor as the Charter of Northampton.

[4] Eliz. [19 Feb., 1562.] (fn. 2) —Letters patent, of which only the first skin remains, being an inspeximus and confirmation of the preceding letters patent of Philip and Mary.

7 [Eliz. ?] March 26 [1565?].—Letters patent exemplifying the charters of the town of Northampton, at the request of "the Mayor, Bailiff (sic), and Burgesses of Great Grymmesbye." Only the last two skins remain, and these are much injured by galls. The first charter remaining in this portion is dated 14 March 38 [Hen. VI., 1460], (fn. 3) which was confirmed by letters patent 10 July 2 [Edw. IV., 1462], (fn. 4) and those by letters patent 11 Feb. 11 [Henry VII., 1496]. (fn. 5) Then follow—

Letters patent of 2 May 18 Edw. IV. [1478].

Charter of 22 Dec. 11 Henry VII. [1495].

All the foregoing charters were confirmed to the town of Northampton by letters patent 14 Feb. 2 [Hen. VIII., 1510], (fn. 6) which were confirmed by letters patent 27 Oct. 1 [Edw. VI., 1547]. (fn. 7) These letters patent of 7 [Eliz. ?], being a mere exemplification, are not enrolled on either the Patent Rolls or the Confirmation Rolls.

4 James II., Sept. 15 [1688].—Letters patent making the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby a corporate body, with Recorder, Aldermen, Coroners, Common Councilmen, Bailiffs, Common Clerk, &c., and conferring various privileges upon them. Three skins, with part of the Great Seal, of green wax.

The Free School Lands.

These formerly belonged to Rayner's chantry in St. James's Church. The deeds relating to them are in Box I.

16 Edw. [III.] June 5 [1342].—Letters patent licensing Edmund de Grymesby to give and assign to a chaplain in the church of St. James of Grymesby ten tofts in Grymesby, and 13s. 4d. yearly from a messuage late of Robert David in the same town; which premises are held of the King in burgage, viz., the messuage by the service of six marks and the tofts by the service of 3s. 4d. Seal gone.

Duplicate of the preceding, in a bad state.

16 Edw. [III.] Sept. 12 [1342].—Letters patent licensing Edmund de Grymesby to give and assign to two chaplains ten marks' worth of lands, tenements, and rents, except lands held of the King in chief. Endorsed: Carta E. Reg' de decem marc' pro ij^bus capell' pro Reyner chantr'. A large portion of the Great Seal remains.

19 Edw. [III.] March 12 [1345].—Letters patent licensing Edmund de Grymesby to grant to the said chaplain seven shops, twelve acres of land, and five acres of meadow in Grymesby, held of the King in free burgage, and worth 26s. 8d. yearly. Endorsed: Carta de sept' seldis et xij acr' terr'—lee Rayner Chauntr'. Decayed; seal gone.

1 Edw. VI. July 12 [1547].—Letters patent founding a free grammar school at Grymesby, at the request of Sir Edward North, Chancellor of the Court of Augmentations; with one master and one under-master, to be nominated by the Mayor and Burgesses. Power is given to them to acquire lands and tenements to the yearly value of forty marks for the support of the school. Also, licence to Thomas Thomlynson, perpetual chaplain of the chantry called Raynard Chauntrie, in the parish church of St. James, to give and grant that chantry, and all its manors, messuages, ornaments, jewels, lands, &c., to the Mayor and Burgesses, in part satisfaction of the said forty marks; the same being of the yearly value of 4l. 5s. 6d., over and above 9s. 6d. reserved to the King as a tenth. Seal gone, but the silk remains; and it bears the royal sign manual.

1 Edw. VI. Sept. 20 [1547].—Deed of Thomas Thomlynson, chaplain of the chantry called Raynarde's Chantry in St. James's Church, whereby, under licence from the King, and in consideration of 80l. paid by the Corporation, he grants to them the said chantry and its possessions, subject to a yearly rentcharge of 9s. 6d. payable to the King.

Charities.

(Box I.)

10 Eliz. May 25 [1568].—Decree in Chancery in a cause between the Corporation, complainants, and Jackson and others, defendants, as to an annuity charged by Katherine Mason, widow, on the manor of Goulceby, and lands there and at Asterby and Scamblesby, by deed dated 10 Oct. 5 Edw. VI. [1550], in favour of the Corporation, for a schoolmaster to teach grammar and the Latin tongue at Grimsby.

9 Eliz. Aug. 4 [1567]. — Depositions taken before Sir Richard Thimbleby, knight, and Thomas St. Poll and Edward Dighton, esquires, in the same cause.

Edmond Fraunces of Golceby clerk, æt. 60, says one Stut had the manor-house and rectory by lease from King Henry VIII. within this 10 years, and mentions several occupiers.

Other witnesses (Robert Fyshe of Golceby, æt. 35, John Jackson of Asterby, æt. 40, Robert Wright of Grimsby, æt. 48, Robert Wyndell of Holton, æt. 46, Robert Hundlebye of Grimsby, clerk, æt. 50, William Ellarde, æt. 30, Wm. Wright, æt. 30, Wm. Bonde, æt. 80, Wm. Kent, æt. 50, Robert Fotherby, æt. 33, and Robert Lorde, æt. 60, all of Grimsby) depose that John Bellow, esq., held the manor of Golceby by knight service, and sold the same to the Defendant John Hatton and Clare his wife for 200l.

1616, April 22.—Office copy, dated 5 July 1619, of the will of John Fotherby of Little Charte, co. Kent, clerk, giving 4l. per annum to the poor of Grimsby.

There is also a contemporary extract from this will, enclosed with a letter to the Mayor from the testator's nephew, W. Fotherby, dated 14 Feb. 1645.

1638, June 27.—Office copy will of Anthony Acham of Holborne, co. Middlesex, gent., whereby he charged the manor and advowson of Asterby, and lands there and at Goulceby and Randby, with various annuities payable to the poor of St. Andrew's Holborn, St. Bride's Fleet Street, Asterby, Goulceby, Knaresbrough, Lincoln, Stamford, Louth, Grimsby, Nottingham, Northampton, and Grantham.

Proved in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, 9 June 1642.

1718, July 28.—Deed of Jane Dymoke, widow of the Hon. Charles Dymoke of Scrivelsby, esq., deceased, and only daughter and heiress of Robert Snowden, gent., and Dorothy his wife, deceased, which Dorothy was formerly widow of George Acham, gent., deceased; whereby, after reciting the will of the said Anthony Acham, the title, that the lands descended to his brother Geo. Acham, and a suit against the said Charles Dymoke, she confirms the said charities.

1658, Aug. 13.—Deed of William Thorold of Cuxwold, gent., granting to the Corporation, for binding poor boys apprentices, a rentcharge out of lands at Scartho, of which the deed recites the descent by the custom of Borough English.

Ordinances of the Borough.

(Box I.)

6 Hen. VII., Jan. 8 [1491].—Be it known and had in mynd that William Vicars, beyng the Mayer of the Burgh of Grymesby, and his Comburges underwrytten, for the gude rewyll, governaunce, and savying of conscience, pleasur of allmyghty God, and for mayntenyng of the said Kynges Burgh and the Inhabitantez therein, hase be gude deliberacion and a sadd councell and wysements of the seid Mayer and his Comburges; that is to say, Peyrs de le See, William Lylburn, Stephan del See, Hugh Edon, Thomas Bell, John Awnger, John Cuke, James Beverley, Thomas Asseby, Robert Smyth, John Empryngham, John Wryght, Cuthbart Wytton, William Peveryll, John Sheryff, Herry Benyngworth, John Gayton, John Forman, Thomas Benyngworth, Herry de le See, John Fraunkesh, William Rosse, John Cowhop, John Awldwyn, Robert Swalowe, John Benman, and Richerd Beteneve, William Forman, Stephan Hatclyff, William Ogle, Robert Walker, Stephan Palmer, Thomas Williamson, Thomas Symkynson, Ranold Peter, Adam Carlton, William Glasyner, and Andrew Bell, Laurence Johnson, John Whytley, Robert Archer, William Awldwyn, Alexander de le See, John Burton, Jacob Dynewell, Henry Drowry, Thomas Watson, Thomas Myffyn; by a hole assent has stabled, ordand, and sworne of the Hooly Mesbuke and the holy Canone w^t the holy crucifix w^t the figure of our Savyor Jhe' therupon to theis artekyls folowyg, that is to say:

That thei shall be redy w^towtyn fere or drede of any man in any degre to resort to ther Mayer for the tyme beyng to mayntene him and his successors in all the poyntys and articculs contened in the Charters graunted by the Kyng and his noble progenitorys, and in the Burges othe, viz., ther shall no man provoke nor styrr to chose in Mayor nor Baylyff from the day of the makyng of this presence but such as kan be thoght shall be most proper profetable in kepyng of good rewyll and governaunce for the said Burgh and the Inhabitance be the Eleccion and wyll of the most parte of votes of the said Comburges.

Item, if ther happen any variance among the said Burges, than it is agrede that ther shall iiij Burges of the forsaid Burgesses be apoynted and indeferently chosyn to agre theym, and to seke nonc other mayntenance but ther Mayor, as it is more playnly contenyd in ther Burges oth.

Item, if ther be any man of any degre that will vex, truble, hynder, or do wrong to any of the seid Burges or inaubentez w^tin the said town, that then evere ylke one of the said Burges and all ther retenures that one or all may mayke shall be redy in ther best array fensable to w^thstand all such mysdoers, and to mayntayne the Mayer, the Kinges Burgh and Fraunches.

And evere sworn Burges shall be redy to cum and compleyn to ther Mayer of all such defauts as has bene moved and done, and inespeciall by John Myssynden, his breder, and his servauntes, and of eny gentilman or yoman that has done wrong or shall do to the said Kynges Burgh and the privelege and ryghte.

And all the articles befor rehersyd shalbe kept of evere manes by half befor rehersyd, and to be redy w^th body and his guds to mayntene and performe the premesys evere man syngularly by hymself befor rehersyd bynds hym in xl^li sterlyng, to forfett if any of the said Burges discover or puplysh the seid articles to eny person butte the seid Burges w^tout the assent of theym all; or if any of theme all be intreted the contrary be any person of any degre, he or they so doyng or trespassyng agayn the seid articles shall run in the contempt and forfet xl^li to o^r soveraign Lord Herry the vij^t, to his Chaunceler of Yngland, the parson of Saynt Marysse of Grymesby beforesaid, and to the vicar of Saynt James of the same, to the byhove of mayntenyng of the ij parish kyrkes of Grymesby befor said and devyne servise, als of[t] as it may be praisd of hym or them.

In witnesse whereof the forsaid William Vicars, Mayer, w^t all his Comburges befor rehersyd, to this presence has sette ther seales. Geven at Grete Grymesby, the viij day of January, in the yere of the reign of Kyng Herry the vij^ti vj^to.

Bond of same date from William Vicars, Mayor, and 27 of the Burgesses to the King and his Chancellor for the time being, the Rector of St. Mary's, and the Vicar of St. James's, in 40l., conditioned for performance of the said ordinances. On vellum. A portion of the Mayor's seal remains. Endorsed: Bond for performing of orders and letters of the Earle of Westmoreland. Also: Artikles maid in the time of W^m Vickers maio^r wch. we are bound to observe by o^r ould ordinance.

There is a copy of these ordinances, &c. at fo. 57^a of the earliest Court Book.

14 Hen. VI., Oct. 3 [1435].—Ordinances commencing, "In the laude and joy of oure Lord Jhũ Crist, and of the most holy moder and vyrgyne oure lady seynt Mary, and all the holy celestyns of heven, to the releve and sustentacion of the kyngs burgh of Grymesby," &c.

These ordinances have been published in a little book on the town of Grimsby, by Robert Walker, printed at Grimsby, by and for the Author, in 1833.

The original vellum has been so much injured by the application of galls, probably for the purpose of copying for Walker's Book, that the writing is now all but illegible.

Royal and other Letters.

(Box I.)

Most of these letters are without the date of the year, though it could no doubt be supplied in many cases from internal or other evidence.

Several of the Royal letters relate to the fee-farm rent, which seems always to have been a source of anxiety and trouble to the Corporation, one of the mayors, according to Madox, having been imprisoned for its nonpayment. The fee-farm rent continues to be paid by the Borough Treasurer down to the present day.

1. Letters of Kings Henry VII. and Henry VIII., under the signet, to the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby, and others.

By the King.

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wel. And for asmoch as we be enformed that certain Inhabitantes of oure town of Grymmesby, not dreding the displeasance of God nor thoffence of us and oure lawes, have made grete attemptatz on riotous wise ageinst oure paix upon the religious persones the Freers Augustines situate in the same oure town, and over this enditing certain of their brethern withoute eny reasonable cause and ageinst alle good conscience, to their unportable charge and cost; with the which demeaning we be gretly displeased, if it so be. Wherefore we, having consideration unto the premisses, and not wolling in eny wise such unlawful entresse to be had in to their place withoute their licence unredressed, wol and charge you, asferforth as in you is, ye see that by noon inhabitant bilonging unto oure said town from hensforth be doon eny such attemptatz ageinst the said religious persones, employing youre diligence and laboure to the discharging of their enditement, to thentent that the forsaid religious men, withoute damage, los of goodes, or bodyly harme, maye quietly attend unto their devine, vertueux, and devoute occupations. And that ye faile not herof, as ye wol avoide oure displeas^r. Geven under oure signet, at oure mano^r of Grenewiche, the first day of Octobre.

Addressed: To oure trusty and welbeloved the mair and thinhabitantes of oure town of Grymisby.

By the King.

We signifie unto you that we have understanden by piteuse and lamentable compleint . . . . . . . . howe no consideracion nor respect taken unto our letters writen unto you nor . . . . . . to surcesse of the grete attemptatz that ye have doon ayenst our lawes . . . . . . . . . . and certain his brethern, and in especiall ayenst our welbeloved John . . . . . . . . . . . us for the right of their Church by commaundement of the Abbot an . . . . . . . . . . . taken upon you to offende our grace in that behalf, in such wise as . . . . disples^r and so . . . . . . plesed as ye have geven us grete cause. Wherfore we write unto you . . . . . . straitely charging . . . amonges othre thinges to surcesse and leve your handes of such injuries and wrong . . . ye have doon and attempted ayenst the said place contrary to the grauntes of our noble progenitours and of us . . . . . . ye on alwise kepe our paix ayenst the said Abbot, his brethern and servantes, and in especialle ayenst the said John Aylesby, so that he may saufly ride and goe for the prouffit of the said place, as his dewete is, and not to be perturbed nor letted by you to sewe unto us for the wele of the said Church. As ye wol answere unto us at your peril. Geven under our signet, at our palais of Westm', the ix day of Nouembre.

Addressed: To the mair, bailiffs, and inhabitantz of oure towne of Grymmysby.

Endorsed: The Kynges letter to the Maire of Grymsby tochyng the Abbot of Wellow.

Decayed.

By the King.

H. R. [Henry VII.]

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wele. And where we be credibly enfourmed that there is graunted unto you by oure progenito^rs diverse privilegies concernyng the good ordre and ruele of oure towne there and thinhabitauntes of the same: we, willing you to enjoy almaner yo^r said priviligies, liberties, and fredomes in as ample maner as it is graunted unto you by our said progenito^rs, wol and therefore streitly charge you, that, not sparing for eny maner favo^r or drede, ye take upon you to se that it be duly . . . oceded according to the said graunt and suche constitucions and usages as of olde tyme have been accustumed there. And also that there be no liveryes nor clothyng geven nor worne in o^r said Towne contrary to o^r constitucions and ordinaunces provided in that behalve. And if eny persoon or persoons wol attempt to interrupt you in execution thereof, we wol than that ye immediatly thereupon do certifie us of his or their names, to thentent that we may purveie for their lauful punicion in that partie; acertaynyng you that for yo^r aide and strength in thaccomplisshing thereofe, we shalbe unto you at al tymes herafter right tendre soverain lord. Geven undre oure signet, at o^r castel of Tutbury, the xxv^th day of Octobre.

Addressed: To oure trusty and welbiloved the Maior, Baliffes, and Burgesses of o^r Towne of Grymmesby.

Endorsed: The Kynges letter frendly written to the Mair and burgesses for the maynteinyng of there . . . . .

By the King.

H. R. [Henry VII.]

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you, lating you wite that it is comen to our knowlege how that certayn cruell and avouable murdres have be late comitted in sundry places in our countie of Lincoln, in the parties of Lyndesey, and noo laufull redresse or punisshement had therin. Wherfor, willing not such detestable offenses to passe unpunisshed, considering the abhomynabilite thereof before the face of God, [we] wol and straitly commaunde you that in alle hast ye doo the said murdrers to be enquired of from tyme to tyme unto they may be founde, and that soo doon, ye see w^thoute favo^r, affeccion, drede or parcialite thoffenders sharply to be punisshed after the straitnesse of our lawes. And that ye faille not to doo yo^r effectuell diligence herein as ye wol answere bifor God and unto us at your perilles. Geven undre our signet, at o^r citie of Lincoln, the v^th day of Aprill.

Addressed: To our trusty and welbeloved the Justices of o^r pees in the parties of Lyndesey w^tin the countie of Lincoln. For murdres.

By the King. (Copy.)

Trusty and wellbeloved, we grete you wele. And where as the Danys, under pretence of th' amyte we have w^t o^r cossen the King of Denmarke, their souverain lord, robbe and dispoile on the see the servauntes of o^r cosyns of Fraunce, Spain, of Portingaile, and of other kinges, princes, and commonalyties w^t whome we have also liege and peace, and w^t ther robberies and pillages doth resort unto o^r portes and crekes for the^r to make the^r port saile of the same, and to refrech theme w^t victailles and other necessaries: We, hereing daily the grete suytes, clamo^rs, and complaintes made unto us by the lieges of o^r confiderates forsaid on the oon syde, and the requestes of o^r propre servauntes, howe th' entrecours of marchaundis, throughe the pillages of the said Daynes, is gretely lete . . . . . and to our no litle losses in o^r Custumes and Subsidies, w^t other evidentes inconv[eniences]. . . . . other syde may of equitie observying o^r liegues w^t the said kinges, princes . . . subjectes of any of our confiderates to robbe or to make war on the othres, and . . . . . ther can no saile be maid nor colour unto pirattes and dispolers upon . . . . . wolle and estraitely commaunde and charge you, that frome hens forth ye give nether help, releve, nor . . . . to any man Dane making war be see, or to any other ther robbing, neither be bying ne bartering of any goodes violently robbed from the lieges nor subjectes of any o^r frendes, thof the same subjectes wold assent and desire you so to do; but that ye take the said Daynes wher so ever they com w^t any pryses to o^r port ther or crekes of the same, and send the capytaines w^t ij or iij others of the best of theme up unto us, for to aunswere in that behalfe, ye keping holy and entierly aswell the vassailes and goodes of the takers as of thos that be taken unto the tyme ye shall have thereupon knowlege of o^r forther plesour. And over this we woll and charge you that neither to Dane pirate nor to any other pirates or robbers on the see [ye] give any manner vitaile nor other thing behovefull to theme for to make warr in this caas, uppon pain unto hym o^r subject that bieth, bartireth, vitailleth, or supporteth any such piller of the sec, of restytution of the hole to the parte robbed, and of confiscation unto us of asmoch his propre goodes that bieth, barterith, vitailleth, or supporteth as [the] pillage amounteth unto, w^t his body to be commytted to prison, ther to rest for as longe as it shall pleas us. And for the more seurty of theis, cause to have it halwaies openly knowen, and not to be colored; we give and graunte unto the fynder of the said forfato^r the moite of o^r parte, to have and enjoye the same to hym for euer. Geven under o^r signete, at o^r manoir of Shene, the xxiij day of May.

Addressed: To the Mair, Custumers, and Comptroller of Hull.

By the King.

H. R. [Henry VII.]

Welbeloved, we grete you wele. And wher as a tenement w^t thappertenaunces lyeing w^tin that o^r towne of Grymesby, late belonging to oon John Cook, otherwise called John a Chambre, and also all his stuf and goodes, of the which, as we perceive, ye made an inventore endented, bilonge justly unto us, by reason of his forfaicture: we late you wit, that we of oure grace especial have geven and graunted the said tenement, stuf, and goodes to o^r welbeloved servaunt Nicholas Smyth. Wherfor we wol and charge you to make unto him juste and undilayed deliveraunce of all the said stuf and goodes, and also to geve unto him yo^r good and lieful assistence in taking seisin of the said tenement, and in his contynuel possession of the same, as ye tendre oure pleaso^r. And these o^r letters shalbe yo^r witnes in the premisses. Geven under o^r signet, at o^r Palais of Westm', the last day of Octobre.

Addressed: To our welbeloved the Mair of our towne of Grymsby w^tin our countie of Lincoln.

By the King.

H. R. [Henry VII.]

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wel. And soo it is as we be credibly enformed that o^r cousin the King of Romayns is commen to Mechlyns, orelles shalbe there; wherefore, as it is saide, our Rebelles take courage, and doo prate and saye that within this oure Realme be certain persones which wol not long tarye from theym, but goo unto them in hast, uppon knowlege of the comming of the [King of] Romayns forsaid; and in asmoche as, be it soo or nat soo as it is befor written, good pollecy adjugeth we shulde provide for the worst: Therfor we wol and charge you that ye have sure and contynuel await uppon almanner of vessailles w^tin yo^r offices, and in especial w^tin the crekes and in othre small rivers hable to passe crayers or botes to the see, that no manner suspect persone be suffred to passe, but that he be attached, and theruppon with the demeanyng and ground of his suspection be saufly sent unto us; and we shal see to youre reasonable cost in that behalve. And therefor faile ye not of the premisses, as ye propose to avoide o^r right grevous displeasour, and the dangier that therupon to you may ensue. Geven undre oure Signet, at our Castel of Windesore, the xxj day of July.

Addressed: To our trusty and welbeloved thofficers of the Towne and Creke of Grymesby.

By the King.

H. R. [Henry VII.]

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wele, lating you wit that we been enfourmed that emonges diverses ordonances made by the Maior, Burgeises, and Comonaltie of our towne of Grymesby for the good rule and politique governance of the same, by virtue of such privileges and confirmacions as by oure noble progenitours have been unto thaim graunted and by us confermed, it hath been ordeyned and of longe tyme used and contynued, that for thelleccion yerely of the Maire of oure said Towne . . . . . personnes of the same, such as been Bourgeises and of the Comon Counsail there, and moost suffisant and able, shal name two personnes of thaim self; and therupon the said Comonaltie, after their discrecions, to chose oon of thoos two to bee maire as for the yere folowing; which ordonnances is to us right aggreable. We therfore wol and straitly charge you that from tyme to tyme ye see that the said ordonnances bee observed and kept, if it bee according to the privileges, graunts, confirmacions and usages afore expressed; nat suffring eny personne, of what degree or co[ndicion] soo ever he bee, to doo enything that should sowne to the breche therof. And if any personne [or] personnes presume to attempte to the contrarie, that ye doo hym or thaim to be punisshed according to o^r lawes, or elles to certifie us of his or thair names without failing, all . . . drede and parcialitie leyde apart, as ye wil answere unto us and avoid our displeasour. G[even] undre our Signet, at Rippon, the xviij day of August. (fn. 8)
(J. Harpisfeld) ?

Addressed: To our trusty and welbeloved the Coronors, Bailleifs, Comon Counsail, and inhabitaunts of oure towne of Grymesby, and to every of [them].

By the King.

H. R. [Henry VII.]

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wele, And bee credibly enfourmed that certain sommes of money of the rentes and revenues of the landes and livelode which apperteyned to the late Erl of Westm^rland and to his son the late Lord Nevil, in your receipt and charge, and growen due unto thaym at Whitsontide last passed, and also to the Lady Nevil by reason of hir joinctur, resten yit unpayed; wherupon we wol and desir you, that with al convenient spede and diligence after the sight herof, ye bring or suerly sende al the said sommes of money unto the said Lady Nevil. And astouching such fees and annuities as were graunted hertofor and assigned upon the said landes and livelode appointed unto hir for hir said joinctur, we wol that ye doo spedily levie and gadre the same, and thaym kepe and reteyne in your handes without any payment therof making til ye shal undrestande our furthr' mynde and pleasour in that behalve: Nat failling in th'execution of the premisses as ye wol aunswer therfor as the caas shal require. Geven under our signet, at our Monasterye of Stratford, the furst day of August.

Addressed: To our trusty and welbeloved the Mair of our Town of Grymesby.

By the King. [Henry VII.]

Right trustie and right welbyloved Cousyn, we grete you well. And where as cure noble progenito^r Edwarde the Seconde, sometyme Kynge of Englande, gave and graunted amonge other thinges by his letters patentes unto youre auncester Edmonde of Wodestok and to his heyres an annuall rente by the name of Fee Ferme of fiftie poundes, which the Maio^r and Baillieffes of oure towne of Grymmesby, wythin oure Countie of Lincoln, have by vertue therof custumably payed unto youe and youre auncesters yerely in oure Eschequer, w^thin the quindene of Saint Michaell th'archangell: We understande, by credible reporte made unto us, that aswell by reason of there excessive and unportable charge in that behalf, an of the grette desolation and decay that cure sayde towne is now fallen in, and also of the poverties of the sayd Mayo^r and Baylieffes they be not of power to contynew the payment of the sayde Fee Ferme, but, raither then to be any further charged wyth the same, entende to surrendre and yelde into oure handes all soch liberties and fraunchesies as unto them were heretofore graunted by Henry the Thirde and other oure noble progenitors, Kynges of Englande; which we ne wolde shulde hapne in oure dayes, for, as we understande, yf any soch surrendre sholde be made, the sayde annuitie and fee ferme, wyth the liberties and frauncheses aforsayde, were lyke utterly to cesse and to be of none effecte. Whereupon we entende, aswell for conservation of the same as of the repayre of oure sayde towne, to directe oure letters of Commission unto certayne persons, gevinge them in commaundement to survey oure sayde towne, wyth all the members and commodities thereunto belonginge, and them trulie to extende to a yerely value; of the which surveyaunce and extent, when it shalbe appoynted, ye shall have a reasonable knowledge, to th'intent that ye may conveniently sende soch of youre counsell as it shall lyke youe to be at the same; and according to the sayde extent ye and youre heyres yerely after to be content and payde wythin the sayde quindene in oure sayde Eschequire by the Mayor and Baylyffes there for the tyme being, and they to be discharged of any further payment, but onely after the rate of the sayde extent: praying youe that wyth this direction ye wolde holde youe content and pleased, for if the corporation be ones dissolved and broken, ye can never after have any parte of the sayde fee ferme by vertue of any graunte heretofore made to youe or any of youre sayde auncesters. Geven under oure signet, at oure Palais at Westm', the xth of February.

On parchment. Endorsed: The copie of the Kinges letter to therle of Westmerlande for the discharge of xx^li parcell of the Fee Ferme of Grymsby.

A copy of this letter is entered in the earliest Court Book, fo. 59^b. The date of the entry preceding it is 2 June 10 Hen. VIII. [1518]; but the date appears to be about 1488 or 1490. Compare entries on pp. 268, 271.

By the King.

Henry R. [Henry VIII.]

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wele. And where as oure powr subgiect William Thomlynson hath . . . . . us and oure Counsaill, how that he hath of the graunte of the late Maire and Burgesses of . . . . of Grymmesby their sufficient letters undre the common seel of our said towne the Spitelhouse . . . . . of Saint Mary Magdalene w^tout the Barregates there, and procuratorie of the same for . . . . . . [? life], as by his said letters, which he shewed unto us and our Counsaill, it may appere . . . . . . . . shewed unto us that you now entende to expelle and put the said William out of the same w^tout . . . . . of cause reasonable, contrary to the said graunte, right, and good conscience: We, entending justice indifferently to be ministred unto every o^r subgiettes, wol that ye permitte and suffre the said Will[ia]m peasibly to enioye the said house as he hertofore hath according to his said graunte w^tout any manner of interrupcion to the contrary, onles that ye have any cause reasonable to be shewed before us and oure Counsaill why ye shulde interupte hym of the same; and if ye any suche cause have, then that ye certifie us and o^r Counsaill therof, to thentent that we, by thadvis of oure said Counsaill, may so ordre the matier in eschewing of his further suyte and vexaccion. And that ye faille not thus to doo as ye tendre o^r pleasure. Geven undre o^r signet, at o^r Mano^r of Grenewich, the xiiij^th day of Aprill.
W. Atwater. (fn. 9)

Addressed: To oure trusty and welbiloved the Maire of oure towne of Grymmesby and to the Burgesses of the same.

Very dilapidated; good signature of the King at the top.

By the King.

Trusty and welbeloved, we grete you wel. And late you wite, that it hath be do us to understande howe amonge diverse ordinaunces and laudable custumes made by the Maire, Burgeises, and Comonalte of oure towne of Grymesby for the good publique and paissable rieul and gouvernaunce of the same, it is conteined as we . . . enfourm . . . . . . . . . . . . for th'ellection of the Maire . . . . . . our said towne . . . . . of the same, suche as be of moost habilite and reputacion and of the Comune Consail . . . . . name two personnes of theym selve, and therupon the said Comonalte, after their discrecions, chose oon to be thair Mair as for the yere folowing; the whiche ordinance is to us right agreable. Wherfore we write unto you at this tyme, wolling and straitly charging you that fro tyme to tyme ye se that the said ordinance be observed and kept, not souffering any personne, of what degree or condicion soever he be, to do any thing that might sowne to the breche therof. And yf any personne wol attempt to do the contrary of this oure commaundement, that ye do hym to be punisshed after oure lawes and custumes of oure said towne. And faille ye not herof as ye wol eschue oure grete displaiser. Geven under oure signet, at our Castel of Leycestre, the last day of Septembre. (fn. 10)

Addressed: To oure trustie and welbeloved the Maire, Coronners, and Juratez of oure towne of Grymesby.

By the King.

Henry R. [Henry VIII.]

Trusty and welbiloved, we grete you well, lating you wit that callyng to o^r remembrance the grete . . . . . . . idle and sturdy vagaboundes within this o^r Realme, that will by noo gu . . . meane o^r commaunde me . . . . to labo^r and travaill for their lyving, but being roted in idelnes doo wander in all partes, both to the greate perill of o^r good and faithfull subjettes, and to thinderaunce and damage of the pore impoten . . . . sustenaunce and relief is moche diminished by thimportunate beggyng of suche sturdy and idle . . . . . . th'entent order may be taken [in] tyme that the weedes over growe not the corne, that is tha . . . . . . to mischief and noughtines of lyvyng be not suffred to molest or trouble our good . . . . . which desire to lyve lik true honest men in their degres . . . as o^r pleasure and . . . . comm . . . . is that every of you for yo^r partes shall have good and . . . . nt respect in all . . . . . . . that o^r statutes for suche vagabundes may be duely put in . . . . . . . . . . . quiett and the better repression of suche idle persons a . . . . . . ld be noysom and harmfull [to the com]onwealth; we woll and straitely charge and commaund you, that you shall not only cause watches to be duelly kepte every night in all places accustomed w^tin that o^r town from ix of the clocke at night till fyve of the clocke in the mornyng, from the day of the recept hereof or assone as ye can take order for the same, untill the feest of Saint Michaell th' archaungell next ensuyng; but also that you shall take certen direction with every parte of that o^r said towne that shall kepe suche watches, that they shall nightly cause one housholder at the leste of the honestest and best sorte to be presente in theyr watche, to th'entent the same may be the more substancially kepte for the quiet of o^r good subjettes and the repression and punnishment of the worste sorte that seketh . . . hing . . . . . . . . . of those that in their degrees lyve after an honest godly fashon. Eftsones therfore . . . . commande . . . . we specially trust you not only to see this o^r pleasur put in due execution, but . . . . . respect and regarde that it may be observed and contynued in all places as is a . . . . . tyme prescribed, as ye woll answer unto us for the contrary. Geven under o^r signet, . . . . Hampton Court, the xxth day of May.

Addressed: To o^r trustie and welbiloved the Maio^r and his brethern of that o^r towne Grymysbye.

Very dilapidated.

There is only one other royal letter of later date, as follows:—

1606, Jan. 4. Westminster.

Part copy of a letter from the King, addressed to the Sheriffs and Justices of Peace in the Counties of Nottingham, Derby, and Lincoln, the City of Lincoln, and the West Riding of Yorkshire, recommending contributions for the repair of the haven of Grimsby.

Among the royal letters there is a copy on paper of "the charter of Southwold." It is really a writ to all sheriffs, mayors, &c., dated 5 July 18 Hen. [VI. ?], commanding them to permit the men and tenants of the town of Southwold, in the county of Suffolk, which Gilbert de Clare, late Earl of Gloucester and Hertford, held, as appeared by an Inquisition, temp. Hen. III., exemplified by King Henry [IV. ?], the King's grandfather, to be quit from toll, pontage, passage, pickage, pavage, and murage.

2. Letters of noblemen and others to the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby and others.

[Before 1459.] Letter of John Viscount Beaumont.

Right trusty and welbeloved, I grete you wel. And forasmuch as it is supposed that there shall now hastily ben a Parlement, which if it so shall be I pray you right hertely, considered that my right trusty and welbeloved servaunt Rauff Chaundeler is like newely to ben maund in yo^r town at Grymesby, wherfor of reson he shuld rather shewe his diligence in suche as shall be thought spedefull for the wele of yo^r said town thanne sum other straung persone, yt may like you for my sake in yo^r eleccion for yo^r Burgeises of yo^r said town to graunte yo^r good will and voys to my said servaunt, to th'entent that he myght be oon of yo^r Burgeises to apere for yo^r said town in the said Parlement. And such as I may do for you I shall at alle tymes the rather perfourme to my power, as knoweth God, which have you ever in keping. Writen at Eppeworth, the xv day of Decembre.
John viscont
Beaumont. (fn. 10)

Addressed: To my right trusty and welbeloved the Mayer and Bailyfs of Grymesby be this delivered.

[1454–71.] Letter of William Skipwyth.

Worchipffull and welbeloved brother, I recommand me on to yow. And for as mysche as y am enformed that Kyrstoffer Pycate, a tenaunt and a man of myn, haeth don a forfette to the town, the wysche y am fulle sory and ill a pays that any servant of myn schuld do howte that were agaynest yowr . . . . of the town other wysse than the law wold [warrant ?]; for y wold prey for to take the mater in to . . . . hand, and that it lyke yow for to lette . . . . n and other . . . . . . . . he dyd forffet to thesse to men, and lette hym Kirstofer ch[ose] other, and letten theym sette a nende betwyx theym. And as for the forfette that he dyd agayenst the town, whan ye and y mette to gedyr, the end schalbe made in that wysse that ye schall hold yow content. No more y write to yow at this tyme, but God have yow in ys kepyng. Writen at Calthorp, this . . . . day of feverer.
Be youre brother and frend, William Skipwyth.

Addressed: To the worshipffull and ryght tristy and welbeloved brother and frend Hew Edon, mayre of Gremysby. (fn. 11)

[1474–80.] Letter of Dame Alice Rotherham.

Ryght worschypfwll Syr, I commende me unto yow and to all yowre bredyr hertely with all my herte, dyshyryng to here off yowre wellffare, prayng yowre maysterschyppe of yowre scharyte that ye be gwd frende and wel wylher to the pwre hows of nownys of Grymysby off syche serten dwtys os you can infwrme yow off; fore qwhy, me semys that thay fawle into the generall sentens that wit howldys holy schyrche dwte, of that qwhyche it is possesste in of holde tyme, and all that consentys yerto or swpportys the wroyng; qwhare fore I pray yowe to supporte them in thare ryght and to be fawerhabwll wnto tham, os my trwste is in yow, and os ye wyll that I do honythyng fore yow in tyme to cum; and also I schall pray my Lorde my swne to be gwd lord to yow in any matter that ye haff to do, os in that that he may do for yow; qwhare fore I pray yow tendyrly to remembwrme and thys pwre nownys, yowre pwre beyd women. Nomore at thys tyme, bot grasiows god haffe yow in hys mersyffwll kyppyng. Wrytyn at Nettylam, the iij day of Awgwst.

Be dame Alys Rothera' moder to my lorde schansler. (fn. 12)

Addressed: To the worschyppfwll Mare of Grymsby and to hys bredyr be thys deliverde.

[c. 1487.] Letter of John Saynton.

Ryght worshipfull and w^t all my hert enterly belovyd maystre and frendez, I recomaund me to yow as hertely as I can, praying you to gyff faithfull credence to my fellow and frend Thomas Broghton, youre neghpur, the brynger heroff, in all suche thyngez as he will say to you on my behalff, as touchyng such . . . . . passid in the Parlement, and for the worship and wele off yo^r toune for yo^r franchez. Written at London, the xvj day of June.

Yo^r own man and frend, John Saynton.

Addressed: To the ryght worshipfull and my full gode maysters & frendez, the Mayre off the toune of Grymesby, and all the inhabitaunce of the same.

[ ] Letter of Ralph Earl of Westmorland.

Right trusty and intierly welbeloved, we grete you ofte tymes well, no doubting but [it] is in your freshe remembraunce how that in relieving and helping of you and al othre inhabitantes of the towne of Grymesby we, at the instance of the King o^r soverein lord, as long as it shall plese us, pardoned unto you yerly of our duetee x^li. And also we, of our owne fre will, for the love and favour that we alway bar and yit ber unto you, having compassion and pite of the povertee that ye alleged at that tyme, at our]wil put in respite yerly x^li, to th'entent that of the remanent of our said dutes furth w^tall we shuld w^tout delay be redily paied when we sent therfor. Yit all this notw^tstanding, we but late sent unto you as for a knawn persone our servaunt John Kemp for the remanent of o^r said duetee, to whome ye made delais and caused hym to tary therefor, likly as he had asked our hole duetee. We therfor let you plainly witte, that if ye at eny tyme heraftre enstraunge you to make redy payment unto suche persone or persones as we send therefor, bringing therof to you a sufficient acquitaunce, we shall frome thens furth araise upon you our hole duetee, w^t suche processe if nede be as the lawe will geve us in that bihalf. Writen undre our signet, at our Castell of Raby, the xxv day of Octobre.

Rauf erl of Westmerland and lord Neville. (fn. 13)

Addressed: To our Right trusty and intierly welbeloved the Maire and Burgeis of the towne of Grymesby.

[ ] Letter of Ralph Earl of Westmorland.

Right welbeloved, I recommaunde me unto yowe. And whereas I understonde that youre towne of Grymesbye must send up to the Parliament two Burgessis of the same, wheche if ye do so wolle be to you no littill charge in susteanyng the^r costis and expensis; wherefor, aswell for the welle of youre seid towne as other speciall causys, I advise and hartely requyre you to send unto my hondes youre wrytte directed for the electionne of the seid Burgessis, wheche I shall cause to be substauncially retoorned, and appoynt ij of my counsale to be Burgessis for youre seid towne, who shall not only regarde and set forward the welle of the same in suche causis, if ye have any, as ye shall advertise me and theym upon, but also dymmynysshe yo^r chargis of olde tyme conswete and used for the sustentacioune of there seid costes. And in this doyng ye shall shewe unto me a singuler pleasure, and unto yo^r selffis convenient proffit; whe^rof I efftsons hartely requyre yowe not to faile as ye intend to have my goode wylle and favo^r in lyke maner shewed accordingly. Thus hartely fare ye welle. At my Castell of Brauncepath, this xvj^th day of September.

Yowrs assured Rauff Westmo^rland.

[ ] A hastily written letter [to the Earl of Westmorland ?], without date.

Pleas it yo^r gode Lordchip to know that ther hath beyn w^t me dyvers of the inabetantes of the town of Grymsby from the May^r, desyryng me to writ to yow, besekyng yow to be to them good lorde in helpyng of them to ther discharge owt of the Kynges Exchekir for soche mony as thei pay to yo^r Lordchip as parcel of ther ferme, wer of thei can in no wis be discharged w^t owt the especial helpe and favor of yo^r gode Lordchip; and y^t it wol ples yow to writ to sum of yo^r councel at London to helpe them to the same. My Lorde, pety it wer but thei sholde hafe helpe theirin, for the lak ther of pittes many folkes in dreid to com and inabit ther w^tin the same towne, wiche shal be gretly to the decay of the same, as divers of the said inabitans, berers heirof, wol shew to yo^r good Lordchip. And thus almyghty God preserve [you].

No signature, the lower part of the paper having been cut off, perhaps for the sake of the autograph.

[1520 ?] Sept. 27 [12 ?] Hen. VIII.

Sir Thomas Darcy, knight, Lord Darcy, "who married Edith relict of Sir Ralph Nevyll, knight, son and heir apparent of Ralph Nevyll, late Earl of Westmorland," acknowledges the receipt from John Fotherby and Patrick Annesley, bailiffs of Grymesby, of 30l. fee-farm rent, viz., 15l. for Easter 10 Hen. VIII., and 15l. for Michaelmas 11 Hen. VIII.

Signed, T. Darci. Seal gone.

[ ] Letter of Thomas Gryce.

I. H. S.

Ryght trusty frendes, aft^r hertyst manner I recommend me unto yow. And so hit is that my Lord Darcy hath send this berer John Halyle unto yow, dysseryng yow to do so moch for hys Lordshyp att the tyme as to levy and gedder his renttes & fermes of Grymsby & Beysby dew to his Lordshyp att Ester last past ther, and the same to delyver unto the same John Halyle, and suerly his Lordshyp weill deserve yo^r payns therfor w^th thankes, as know^th our Lord God, who kep yow in gud helth. Scribylyd att Templehirst, this iiij^th day of Aprill. I pray yow geve further credance to this berer.

Yo^r luffyng frend to his power, Thomas Gryce.

Addressed: To myn old frendes & luffers Rob^t Stevenson & Richerd [Roch ?] and every of thame be this delivered.

[ ] Letter from John Lude (?) of the King's Exchequer, to the Mayor of Grimsby.

Says that the town stands in arrear in the Exchequer, for which process should have gone out last term, "as Catelyn can shew you," but that he had paid 2s. out of his own purse to stay it. Begs that the Bailiffs will bring the quittance from my Lord Darcy. The writer has been 10 years attorney for the town, but for four years has had no fees. "Wherefor I pray you to move my masters your brethren that I may be somewhat recompensed therefor as reason wold."

[ ] March 15. "From the Kinges Hono^r of Hulle." Letter from Mychaell Stanhope to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Grimsby.

States that the bearer, Anthony Fitzherberd, stands under arrest at the suit of S^r Gey Gikell, priest, for 5l. 6s. 8d., and for 16 quarters of corn, which came from Waltham, most of it from Mr. Robert Skerne's ground, of whom he hired it. Last year "I was labored unto by my cosayne John Babyngton, whow sent me a letter desieryng me by the same to spare endyferently the corne that was at the parsonage of Waltham, for that the parson, Mr. John Fitzherberd, one of the Kynges majesties chaplenys, had wryte hym a letter decclaryng by the same that he had lette the sayd parsonage of Waltham to ferme unto the sayd Antony Fitzherberd. For further declaracion to veryfy the truthe, this Fitzherberd was forsed to obtayne a letter from the Kinges Counsayll to William Ustwayt of Waltham, that dwelt in the sayd parsonage, for to expulce hym forth therof." The parson of Waltham is uncle to the bearer, and also agreed to let him the parsonage farm, so that he thought his uncle would rather blame the priest, S^r Gey Gekell, than maintain him therein, and thus he is now destitute not only of counsel but also of witnesses, &c.

[1545], January 4. London.

Letter from "yours as yett unaqwaintyd, Richard Goodrick," to the Mayor of Grimsby and his brethren, thanking them for electing him a Burgess for Parliament, and professing his readiness to serve them without any charge.

[1547 ?] January 14. Lincoln. Letter from George Saintpoll to his loving frende, Rychard Hempryugham, Maio^r of the Towne of Grymysby.

Has received their letter requiring his advice as to the indictment of a certain prisoner at Grimsby to be tried before him and Mr. Aycue, Mr. Hennage, and others by commission. Can give no direct advice until he sees them. Has to ride to London, but on his return will let them know when he can come. Will see Mr. Chancellor shortly on Mr. Bellow's business.

1552[–3], January 19. From the Court at Grenewich. Letter from E. [Lord] Clynton to the Mayor and Aldermen of Grimsby.

Although the King's writ for election of burgesses has signified his Majesty's pleasure, "yet nevertheless having some specyall knowlege of his highnes desyre to have this Parliament assembled of men furnysshed w^t experyance of their owne countreys," &c., the writer advises them to choose expert and discreet burgesses of their own borough as nigh as may be.

[ ], Sunday. Helinge. Letter from Francis Mussynden to "the right worshipfull Mr. Mighell Emperingham, the Quenes Majesties Leifetennaunt of the towne of Grymsbye."

Was yesterday with my father-in-law, S^r Francis Ayscowghe, at Lincoln, and he would desire you to choose for Parliament my uncle, Mr. George Skipwith, and Mr. William Marberye, whom he doth think very fit men for the purpose. I pray you to certify me by the bearer, for I mean to speak with my father-in-law to-morrow. By yo^r assured friende and coussin.

[1553 ?] Letter from Sir William Skypwith, Sheriff of Lincolnshire, to his friend Mr. John Bellow.

Wishes to send precept for choosing burgesses for Parliament, but "at thys present I have no presydent of the precepts." Desires them to elect on authority of this letter. "As for your woode, I here my Lorde Wyllybe ys a bowt to have all the . . . werfor I will take some counsell further."

[1554], March 11. Kelsaye. Letter from [Sir] Francis Ayscough to his loving friend Mr. Kingston, Mayor of Grimsby, and his comburgesses.

Has received from them an indenture sealed with their corporate seal, whereby he perceives that at his request they have elected his cousin, Thomas Hussye, for the Parliament to be held at Oxford 2 April next. Thanks them, and promises that Hussye shall take no burgess fees. (fn. 14)

[1554], Oct. 19, Philip and Mary. Lincoln.

Letter from Sir Francis Ayscough, Sheriff of Lincolnshire, to the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby. Has received a writ from the King and Queen for election for Parliament at Westminster on 12 Nov. next, and also a letter from the Queen commanding him to admonish the Burgesses to choose an inhabitant of their own town "and of the wysest, grave & catholycke sort, syche as in deyd meyne the trew honor of god w^th the prosperyte of the comen welthe."

1555, Oct. 22. Kingston-upon-Hull. Letter from John Thorneton, Mayor, to the Mayor and Aldermen of Grimsby.

Understands that there is one great ship late of Lubeck remaining at their haven, lately brought thither by certain Frenchmen, being pirates. The owners make most earnest suit for its restoration to them, and have obtained letters from the lordes of Lubecke to the King and Queen, and have applied to the Mayor of Hull, thinking it was in his jurisdiction. Asks the assistance of the Mayor and Aldermen of Grimsby.

[1557 ?], Dec. 3. Lincoln. Letter from Sir Francis Ayscogh to the Mayor and Burgesses.

After harty commendacions, wheras I ame enformed that ther will be a Parliament holden immediatly after Christenmas, wherfor I shall require you at this my request to chuse for one of yo^r burgeses Xp[ist]ofer Winch, esquire, who ys a man very mete for the same, being both wise and well-learned, and able fully to dyscharge that offyce. And yf yo^u have any thing to do with my Lord of Westmorland, as I suppose you have, he may do as much with him as any man, for he ys of his counsayll. And yf you do chuse him now at my request, the towneship shall have a great treasure of him, and lykewise I fro my parte shalbe glad to do for yo^u any thing that lyeth in my power. Thus fare ye well. From Lyncoln, the iij. of Decembre.

Yours, Francis Ayscogh.

I will undertake for him he shall take no fees of yo^u for being burgeyse.

[1559,] Jan. 5, 1 Eliz.

Warrant from William Thorold, esq., Sheriff of Lincolnshire, to the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby, for the election of Burgesses for Parliament.

1558[–9], Jan. 8. Ketylbye.

Letter from Sir Robert Tyrwhyt to "the Ryght Worshipfull and my lovyng fryndes Mr. Maior of Grymsby and to the rest of his Brethern."

States that he is requested by his very good lord my Lord Clynton earnestly to require them to commit the nomination of one of the Burgesses for Parliament to his lordship, and my lord will appoint such a gentleman as shall be able very honestly to supply the office and put the town to no charges. "And for my brother Marmaduke, I have stayd hym that he shall make no further sewtt to yow for the same."

1559, July 30. "From my Mannour at Kirkby Morshede."

Letter from [the Earl of] Westmorland to the Mayor and Aldermen of Grimsby, upbraiding them for abusing his forbearance as to the fee-farm rent, "as thoughe the same were clene forgotten," and threatening them unless paid.

1562, Oct. 26. "Frome my Chambre in th' inner Temple."

Letter from Robert Halton to the worshipfull and his very frend Mr. Hempringham, Mayor of Grimsby.

Understands that a Parliament is to be summoned, and asks to be elected one of the Burgesses. Promises various services in return, and to require no expenses, "except you se cause frelye to consyder me w^th some smalle pleasure."

1562, Nov. 30. From the Court.

Letter from E. [Lord] Clynton to his very loving friends the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby.

Desires them to elect for Parliament Mr. Edward Tarrat, who is a very discreet gentleman and one ready to further their interests, without putting them to any charge, &c.

1575, Jan. 19. Swynnoppe.

Letter from E. Ayscogh to the worshipfull Mr. Leifetennent of Greate Grimsbye and to the Bayliffes of the same.

Says that the bearer Mr. Underwoode arrested one Thomas Richardsonne of North Cootes for debt, which he acknowledged before the writer, and agreed to pay at a certain date. Certifies that default had been made.

1579, Sept 2. Tatersall Castell.

Letter from [Lord] Clynton to "my frendes Mr. Mayor and the Burgesses of the towne of Great Grymsby."

States that his servant Richard Holmes had complained that he had been disfranchised by the Corporation for serving certain process directed to him out of the Court of Admiralty. Threatens pains and penalties.

1579, Sept. . . . Grimsby.

Copy of a proposed reply to the preceding, signed by 35 Burgesses (Wm. Skailes, who was then mayor, signing amongst the rest, but without any distinction), stating that they rely upon their charters, which they offer to produce.

1599, July 7.

Council letter as to standards of weights and measures, &c., signed John Canterbury, Tho. Egerton, Tho. Buckhurst, Nottingham, Wm. Knowles, Robt. Sishell, Jo. Fortescue, and Jo. Popham, and addressed to all mayors, &c.

[ ], March 27. Ashby.

Letter from Christopher Wray to the Mayor, returning the Charter sent to him. Was afraid it would have to be pleaded, but through the favour of the King's Attorney General, he had procured a "Nill pross." (sic), which is a sufficient discharge, and prevents further question. Asks no other recompence than love.

Bill of Costs of Geo. Clayton against the Mayor and Burgesses of Grimsby, as to complaint exhibited to the Lord William Powlett, their late Recorder, of grievances suggested in the management of the Corporation affairs. Some of the items were:—

Abstracting Charters.

Copying and handing in an Address to the King in 1727.

Attending S^r Robt. Sutton in London in order to remind him of his promise in contributing to the church.

Journey to Ashby to get documents signed.

Altogether, 36l. 19s. 4d.

Deeds.

(Box I.)

S. D.—Ralph de ...ay of Grimesby to Wm. Rayner of same. Witnesses, J. Welbourn, Mayor, and others.

4 Edw. II. 1310. Monday after Assumpt. B.V.M.—Grant by Agnes late the wife of Peter Reyner of Grimsby, to her daughter Anora. Witnesses, William de Gronale, Mayor, and others.

10 Edw. II. 1317. Morrow of SS. Peter and Paul.—Grant by Geoffrey, son of Gilbert de Wyum, rector of St. Mary's Grimsby, to William Baril, burgess of Grimsby, and Dionisia his wife.

1326.—St. Agnes, Virgin.—Grant by Marjory, late the wife of Guy de Wrangel of Grimsby, to Peter de Thorp of the same.

1343. Friday in Easter week.—Peter de Thoreñ of Grymesby grants to Edmund Rayner of same, clerk, two shops on the south of St. James' churchyard. Witnesses: John de Ryby, mayor, Ralph de Ocle and Thomas Heylyng, Bailiffs, John Canon, Simon de Fountenaye, Peter atte See, William de Skyrbek, Dionisius de Wathe, and William Manden.

1352. Sunday, feast of St. Matthias.—Grant by Richard atte See of Grimsby to Peter de Halsham of same.

1374. Sunday after SS. Fabian and Sebastian.—William de Benyngholm and William Marcand of Grymesby, chaplains, grant to Peter de Halsham of same, and Agnes his wife, land in the east field of Grymesby, near Dedemansheuedland. Witnesses: Richard de Aby and Robert Emanson, bailiffs of Grymesby, John de Middeby and Robert Broune, coroners, William de Bolyngton and Robert de Utterby, of Grymesby.

1382. Tuesday after St. Gregory.—Lease from the Mayor and Burgesses to John de Covenham of Grimsby.

12 Ric. II. 1389. Monday, eve of SS. Peter and Paul.—Grant by John Wynde of Boseworth, chaplain, to Sir William Luscy of Grimesby, chaplain, subject to a rent payable to the Fraternity of the Hospital of St. John.

11 Hen. IV. [1410.] Feast of St. Gregory.—Power of attorney from Robert Lordyng of Grymesby and Marjory his wife to Robert Dawlyn of same to deliver to John de See of Little Cotes and William Lucy of Grimsby, chaplain, seisin of certain land at Grimsby.

13 Hen. IV. [1412.] April 16.—Grant by Robert Lordin and Marjory his wife, of Grimsby, to John de See, son of Peter de See, of Great Cotes, and Sir William Lucy, chaplain.

2 Hen. VI. [1424.] March 4.—Bond by John Pye of Grymesby, mariner, to John Harpour, rector of Scarthow.

9 Hen. VI. 1431. Thursday after Purif. of B.V.M.—Grant by John Barrowe, burgess of Grimsby, to Isabella his wife, of a messuage in Northsanctmarigate, which he had by feoffment of Robert Pyshale of Grimsby, Walter Pyshale of Keleby, and Henry Cowper of Grimsby.

30 Hen. VI [1451.] Nov. 16.—Power of attorney from Thomas Marflete of Kyngeston on Hull, maryner, to John Carleton of Grymesby, to receive moneys due from William Lyen alias Furbether.

11 Edw. IV. [1471.] Sept. 10. — Indenture between Richard, Abbot of Welhowe, beside Grymesby, and the convent of the same, of the one part, and John Sheryff, Maire, and the Balliffs and Burgeses of Grymesby, of the other part. Pursuant to arbitration by Robert Sheffeld, it is agreed that the Abbey shall suspend for 80 years the payment by the Corporation of 11l., part of the fee-farm due to the King, and granted by him to the Abbey; and in consideration thereof, the Corporation shall suspend for a like term the payment of 3l. 13s. 11½d. per annum by the Abbey in respect of certain houses, &c. in Grimsby. The Corporation also grant to the Abbey, for the same term, the third part of a marsh called Wulsoo, 6 acres and 1 rood of waste in the East Marsh, near the Haven.

The Abbey seal remains, almost perfect.

Endorsed is a memorandum, dated 24th Sept. 1492, between Sir Richard Humbleton, Abbot, and the Convent of Wellhowe, and William Vicars, Mayor, and the Bailiffs and Burgesses of Grimsby, as to a yearly payment to be made by the Abbey over and above the 3l. 13s. 11½d. suspended by the deed.

20 Edw. IV. [1480.] Oct. 15.—Recognisance by Hugh Edon and John Forman, churchwardens of St. Mary's, Grimsby, to Stephen See of Grimsby, gent., in 20l., to abide by the arbitration of Richard, Abbot of Wellow, William Glasyner, mayor of Grimsby, Master Thomas Rome, rector of St. Mary's, John Saynton, recorder of Grimsby, and John Bras, vicar of St. James's, between the said Edon and Forman, and the said See.

1 Edw. V. [1483.] June 20.—Release by Wm. Grethed, burgess of Hertilpole, to Sir John Byrde, canon of Wellow, and Sir John Brasse, vicar of St. John's, Grymsby, administrators of the goods of Richard Manfelde of Gremysby, deceased.

3 Hen. VII. 1487. Sept. . . . .—Lease of premises at Grimsby by the Mayor (William Glasyner) and Burgesses to John Wright for 16 years.

19 Hen. VIII. [1527.] Dec. 1.—Indenture between Bryan Curtis of Great Grymesby, burgess, and Peter Bell, of Skarthow and Eliz^th his wife, sister and heir to Thomas Kydger, late of Grimsby. Recites that Philip Blesby and Jane his wife, late wife of the said Thomas Kydger, have a rent-charge on all the said Bryan Curtis's land in Weelsby, as jointure of the said Jane. Release.

1 Edw. VI. [1547.] Oct. 23.—Indenture between Andrew Nowell, esq., sheriff of Lincolnshire, and the mayor, aldermen, and burgesses of Grimsby, as to the election for Parliament of Richard Gouderyk, esq., and John Bellowe, esq.

1 Mary. [1553–4.] Proceedings at the suit of John Watson, son of Richard Watson of Huthom, co. York, against Robert Wryght, burgess of Grimsby, for "slanderously misreporting and calling the said John villayn and knave in Great Grymisby in the church," &c.

1555. June 24.—Power of attorney from Richard Ayscough of Asbye, gent., to Thomas Wyse of Brigsley, to receive a debt due from John Graye of Great Grimsby, bocher.

1586. May 30.—Deed consolidating the Rectory of St. Mary and the Vicarage of St. James in Grimsby; signed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Lincoln, George Portmort, mayor, and about 30 burgesses.

A fragment of the Corporate seal remains.

18 James I. [1620.] 20 June.—Counterpart lease for 18 years of Grimsby Ferry, between Grimsby and Hull, by the Mayor and Burgesses to Wm. Hallington of Grimsby, sailer, and Emm Craine, daughter of John Craine, deceased.

The lessees to provide a boat at convenient times for passengers, &c., charging freemen, their wives and children, and their servants on their business, 1d.; and foreigners and non-freemen 2d. each.

Rent—one good and well-fed brawn, one quarter of good sweete and well-fed ox beef, a bottle of sack, and 20s.

15 Chas. I. [1639.] July 30.—Lease by the Mayor (Gervase Holles) and Burgesses to Paul Willer of Grimsby, clerk and burgess, of land adjoining the Vicarage, for 60 years, at 1s. rent.

1696. 30 Sept.—Articles of Agreement between Henry Hildyard of Kelsterne, esq., and Christopher Hildyard his son, of the one part, and the Mayor (Robert Alford) and Corporation of Grimsby, of the other part, as to diverting the stream between Great Coates and Little Coates, so as to supply Grimsby with fresh water and improve the Town.

1714. Aug. 21.—George Clayton of Grimsby, gent. (now Mayor) to David Field of Saniehop, esq. Mortgage of 120 acres in West Marshes. Satisfaction endorsed.

Inquisitions and Depositions, &c.

(Box I.)

15 Edw. III. April 7 [1341].—Inquisition ad quod damnum, taken at Grimsby by the oath of Robert Maundavyle of Belesby, and others. An imperfect copy, found amongst fragments of old Court Books. "Ex Bundello Escaet' de Anno 15° regni Regis Ed. 3."

[23 Eliz. 1581.]—Proceedings in a suit between the Mayor (William Scales) and Burgesses, Plaintiffs, and George Heneage, esq., Luke Sutcliffe, Adam Sutcliffe, Salamon Sutcliffe, and John Sutcliffe, Defendants.

The Bill states that Wellow Abbey anciently possessed a rent of 11l. out of the fee-farm of the town, and by indenture dated 10 Sept. 11 Edw. IV. [1471] granted the same to the Mayor (John Sheriffe) and Burgesses of Grimsby for 80 years; and in return the Corporation granted certain lands to the Abbey for the same term. The Abbey was suppressed about 28 Hen. VIII., and its possessions granted by the King to Sir Thomas Heneage and Dame Katherine his wife, and his issue in tail male, with remainder to John Heneage. The said Thomas having no male issue, the premises descended to George Heneage, esq., son and heir of the said John. The Defendants have entered on the premises belonging to the Corporation.

(Box II.)

23 Eliz. [1581.]—Interrogatories and Depositions in the same suit.

Depositions taken at Louth, 5 Sept. 23 Eliz., before Andrew Gedney, William Metham, Robert Saunderson, and George Pormort, esquires.

The witnesses are: Robert Fotherby, æt. 47; Christr. Hatcliff, æt57; William Rose, æt. 55; Richard Cooke, æt. 63 (all burgesses of Grimsby); Robert Empringham of Grimsby, gent. and alderman, æt. 34; John Sandall of Grimsby, tiler, æt. 67, sometime servant to the Abbot of Wellowe; William Sutton of Clee, husbandman, æt. 54; John West of Cleethorpp, husbandman, æt. 60; Richard Wells, æt. 60, and James Lavorack, æt. 80, both of Clee, fish drivers.

Depositions taken at Grimsby before same Commissioners, 22 March, 23 Eliz.

Hector Wentworthe of Clee, gent., æt. 50, says about four years ago he received from Mrs. Hatcliff, now or late wife of Mr. Stoke, late of Camberwell, co. Surrey, a lease from the Mayor (John Sheriffe), Bailiffs, and Burgesses of Grimsby to the Abbot and Convent of Wellowe of a marsh called Wolso; and he delivered the same to Mr. Paton (late belonging to Sir Walter Mildmay, knt.) to procure for himself and this deponent certain arrearages amounting to 200l. supposed to be due to Her Majesty.

Robert Fotherbie, æt. 47, says that when a child be heard Richard Hempringham, gent., then æt. about 60, mention certain bounds in perambulations.

William Lusbie, of Grimsby, burgess, æt. 70, also remembers this about 36 years ago.

Depositions taken in London, 28 June, 22 Eliz.

Christr. Payton of London, gent., æt. 34, says he was privy to the exhibiting of an Information by the Attorney-General as to a rent of 11l. a year, formerly of Wellow Abbey, and detained by Hector Wentworth, gent.

Hector Wentworth says that about five years ago Richard Themelbye of Grimsby, gent., delivered to him the seal of the late dissolved Abbey of Wellow, and that last summer or the summer before he sent the same to Mr. George Hennage by one of his servants.

The following also give evidence:—Richard Curtis, æt. 66; Richard Wallys of Clee, æt. 60; Robert Andesley, now Mayor of Grimsby, æt. 74.

Annexed to the proceedings is a plan or map of Grimsby, showing the lands in dispute.

4 James 1. April 11 [1606].—Inquisition by commission from the Court of Exchequer as to the extent and value, &c. of the East and West Marshes and Fitties, and as to a few private individuals having occupied same under colour of a grant of 15 Edw. III.

10 James I., September 10 [1612].—Depositions taken at Grimsby before Wm. Reading, esq., Rd. Rossiter, esq., Thos. Bard, esq., Thos. Curteis, gent., and Thos. Danbye, gent. by commission from the Court of Exchequer in a cause between Sir Chas. Egerton, on behalf of the King, and the Corporation, as to the East and West Marshes and Fitties. The witnesses are:—Michael Spencer, gent., æt. 50; Robt. Husthwayte of Grimsby, gent., æt. 78; Wm. Kelke, gent., æt. 55; Barnard Colton of Grimsby, gent., æt. 72; Rob. Hudson, æt. 60; Hy. Neave of Cleethorpes, yeoman, æt. 66; John Fotherbie of Gt. Coates, yeoman, æt. 70; Edward Barnistone [Barnardiston] of Great Coates, gent., æt. 60; Michael Dynis of Great Coates, husbandman, æt. 76; John Brasebridge of Bradley, labourer, who has known Grimsby 50 years.

The witnesses give evidence as to the Marshes, leases of same, overflowing of the sea, charters, &c.

Depositions taken at Binbrook in the same cause:—

William Hansard of Grainthorpe, gent., æt. 41; and John Sutcliff of Grimsby, gent., æt. 46.

Memorandum endorsed as to evidences taken to the Assizes at Lincoln, 9 July 1621, by Mr. Lyon Kirke, Mayor.

1624, Jan. 4.—Depositions taken at Grimsby before Michael Emerson, gent., Wm. Marshall, gent., Robert Manby, gent., and Anthony Smyth, gent., by commission from the Court of Exchequer, in a cause between the Corporation and Hustwaite Wright, gent., for the recovery of outrents payable out of lands at Bradley.

Laurence Draper of Would Newton, yeoman, æt. 70, says Grimsby is an ancient haven towne, and he hath known it 50 years, but it is not so populcus nor so much frequented by merchants and mariners as heretofore it hath been. He knows Bradley; there are two manors there, one of which was anciently called Lord Wells' manor, the other was sometime one Hustwood's manor. Defendant is in possession of both, but Mr. Pelham claims part of Lord Wells' manor.

The other landowners at Bradley are John Draper, deponent, John Jeckhill . . . Tatam, widow, Trinity College, Cambridge, and Sir Christopher Hilliard, knt.

Lord Wells' Manor place, containing 3 acres, adjoins Horner or Pinfould Lane.

Ozias (also written Josias) Draper of Leyborne, yeoman, æt. 56.

Edward Atkinson of Theddlethorpe, gent., æt. 59, says there were two manors; one Lord Wells' and the other called Tunstall's Manor, which came to one Ustward, whose daughter and heir married James Wright, Defendant's father. Deponent became a freeman about 36 years ago.

Thomas Scofield of Scarthoe, husbandman, æt. 60.

John Dalton of Barnaby, yeoman, æt. 86.

John Kirton of Grimsby, gent., æt. 54.

The said Laurence Draper says that there were two messuages belonging to Lord Wells' Manor, one called the Lordshippe, now decayed. Has heard that the Mayor and Burgesses had the privilege of hunting a boar yearly on Holy Rood day in Bradley Woods.

James Curtes of Grimsby, gent., æt. 55, has known Grimsby about 45 years.

1637.—Bill, &c., in a suit commenced by Trinity House, Hull, as to Lodenage or Lowage, and Primage or Stowage, viz., 3d. per ton of wine, oil, fish, or other merchandise brought into the Port of Grimsby, claiming that Grimsby was dependent on Hull. Grimsby claims to be older than Hull as a port, and disclaims dependence.

Extent Books and Miscellaneous Documents.

(Box I.)

18 Ric. II. [1394–5.]—The Chamberlains' Account Roll.

There are many more of these Rolls in Box XI.

6 Hen. VII. Dec. 3 [1490].—Contemporary copy of a Royal Commission to John Viscount Wels, Sir Thomas Burgh, Sir Thomas Fitzwilliam, Sir William Tirwhyt, and Sir Robert Dymmok, knights, Robert Sheffeld, Andrew Dymmok, and John Hennege, to enquire into the particulars and amount of the quitrents, &c. payable out of Grimsby, Clee, Bradley, and Swallow, on account of the alleged poverty and desolation of the Borough.

7 Hen. VII. [1491–2.]—Bailiffs' Extent Book. A folio parchment book of 14 pages, containing an account of the outrents payable to the Corporation, and the houses and lands on which they were charged, as returned by the Commissioners, Sir William Tirwhit and John Hennage.

35 Hen. VIII. Oct. 9 [1543].—Extent or Rent-roll of Grimsby. A paper book stitched in an old parchment MS. cover.

(There are several 18th century Rent-rolls in Box XI.)

24 Eliz. May 28 [1582].—Exemplification of a decree in the Court of Exchequer in a cause between the Corporation and Mr. George Heneage as to lands of the late dissolved Abbey of Wellow. Great Seal, nearly perfect.

13 James I. [1615].—Exemplification of verdict and judgment for recovery of the East and West Marshes and Fitties. The Charter of 24 April 15 Edw. III. is recited for the Corporation's grant of same.

34 Eliz. Sept. 4 [1592].—Commission of gaol delivery to William Kelke, mayor, William Willoughbie, esq., Sir Geo. Henneage, knt., Sir Geo. St. Poole, knt., William Wraye, Edward Morison, recorder, Edward Skipwith, esq., Christopher Hatcliffe, Richard Cooke, John Hatcliffe, Christopher Harrington, Richard Thimblebye, and John Kingston, aldermen. Most of the Great Seal remains.

40 Eliz. July 3 [1598].—A similar commission.

Court Rolls.

(Box II.)

These include Mayor's Court Rolls proper (apparently the predecessors of, and in part contemporaneous with, the Court Books), Plea Rolls, Hustings and Great Court Rolls, and Views of Frankpledge for Grimsby, Clee, and Swallow.

They are for the most part in a state of great disorder, partly no doubt owing to their being written on paper, which has become dilapidated. An exception to this is a large roll dated from 14 Ric. II. to 3 Hen. IV., which is written on parchment, and to which a petition of the City of Lincoln, transcribed below, is attached as the first skin of the roll.

The earliest Rolls appear to be of the time of Edward III., and there are large numbers of them for the reigns of Ric. II., Hen. IV., V., and VI., Edw. IV., Hen. VII., and Hen. VIII.

In the same box there is also a small Court Minute Book of 13 Hen. IV., a bundle of Bailiffs' Account Rolls from temp. Hen. V., several Corporation Labour Account books of the 16th and 17th centuries, several lists of Burgesses, and a Poll of the Burgesses, 23 Oct. 1554, when John Bellow, esq., and Thomas Constable, alderman, were elected Burgesses for Parliament.

Copy of a Petition of the Citizens of Lincoln, in the time of Richard III., attached to the parchment Roll above mentioned:—

To the Kyng oure leige Lord.

[Humbly shew ?] . . . . . . . . . . unto youre Highnes the Maire, his bredern, and Citezyns of yowr desolate and auncien Cite of Lincoln, that yt wolde please youre benyngn grace to have in youre gracious and full gracious remembrance the grete and long continued desolacion, decaye, ruyn, and importun cherges . . . born and charged upon youre seid Cite . . . . . . . . . . . . . to growe to the utter . . . . . and destruccion therof, wythoute a reformacion and releve by your piteuous and exuberant grace therin to be purveyd and graunted. Souerayne lege Lorde, the meanez and causes of the seyd decay and dystruccion of youre seyd pore Cite ar conteyned in the bylle hereefter. The releve . . . whereof . . . . youre grace is thoght by the sympull advyce of us the seyd Mayre, hys bredren, and Citezins, youre treue lege men, expedient and behoffull for the grete comfort and amendyng and sustentation of youre seyd Cite. Th'efecte conteyned in thiez articlez then foloyng.

The causez of the ruyne of youre Cite of Lincoln.

. . . . . noble progenitours by theyre letteris patentez graunted to the seyd Cite that noo Merchantez straungers or Esterlyngez northweyz that come into Lincolnshire that broght any marchandise to selle, that they sulde bryng it hole to the seyd Cite, and to selle it in non other towne, upon peyne of forfetor . . . . . . . . . . tymes they sold, bought, and bartered wythin the seyd Cite with cloth, wherupon was usede grete cloth makyng, and the people putt in occupation, wherby many wonnyng placez were inhabett that is nowe playne felde in lakyng the premissez. And where that the Jewez were in aunciaunt tyme enhabettaunt in the seyd . . . . . . . . . . . . . rede brought all theyre marchaundyse to be solde as Lumb'dn doth at this daie in your Cite of London, and as it nowe schewith that the grettest heidplacez were of theyre beildyngez, as in a boke of your Exchequer of record itt apperith; and now the grete nowmbre of the seyd heidplacez be wasted and dessolate for lakke of inhabytantez, and be . . . yoyd groundez.

. . . . . the stapull of woollez of Lincolnshyre, Northampton, Leicestre, and Notingham schires was at Lincoln, and there stapulled, custumyde, and poysed, w^t other tollez therto be longyng, to the behoffe and releve of the payment off the fee ferme of the seyd Cite; and therupon no peny growes at thys daie, wich is one (sic) of the utterest destruccion and ruyn thereof.

And also the grete mortalite that hath bene here by pestelance and othere sekenez that in concurs of marchandyse is there, for wythin xxx yeres was x or xii notabull marchandys be longyng to the Stapull of Calez dwellyng in thys youre Cite, where nowe is at thys daye natt past thre yong men w^thal ar here abydynge. Here comyth no repayre of lordes ne odur gentylmen, wher thorough that the craftmen and vittelerz ar departied oute of thys youre Cite, and inhabett them in odur placez in thys schyre where more recours of pepull is, as itt daiely apperyth; soo that the stretez where they dwelled ar now voied, and the howsyng down. And so at thys daye yowre seyd legemen and pore inhabytentez in yowre seyd Cite ar yerly chargede to the Cathederall Chyrche of Lincoln in iiij^xx i., be siddez theire acompt and feez in youre Exchequir and odur officies; wiche is unto ij men yerly grete hurt or undoyng, for the Schereffez at thys daye can nott gader toward theire chargez of theire tollez, courtez, finez, and amerciamentez nott to the summe of xx li.; and that causeth many men that hath beene brought upp in thys Cite by prentishode, service, or oder wyse, to avoyed and goo forth thereof, and to inhabett theime in oder placez; and there ys nedere craft man ne soiourner that wille come too a bide or dwelle here, for fere of the seyd office; and thus this Cite dissolatez and fallith in grete decaye.

The Relief for the seid Cite.

For the wich grete dececes, desolacions, and lakke of inhabitantez, we the seyd Mayre, his bredren, and Commonalte humble besechez youre Highnez, of youre grete haboundant grace, that ye wolde graunte and gyffe to yo^re seyd Cite of Lyncoln the patronagez of the chirchez of Whassyngburgh, Ledenham, and Fulbek, in your Com' of Lincoln, and Wadyngton, in youre Com' of youre seyd Cite of Lincoln, beyng now of yo^r geft and collacion, that thei myght be appropriated to summe spirituall place conveniently to be a vysed by lerned councell to the use and behoffe of the Cathederall Chirch of Lyncolne, and to remayne for ever in the dyschargynge of parcellez of the seyd chargez and fee ferme yerely issuynge of youre seyd Cite.

Also that ye wolde graunte of yo^r grett grace, that all marchauntez that use or wille a venture over the see, that ar or wilbe wonnynge or abydinge within this yo^r cite, that aventure cloth or any odur marchaundice, that thei might be free of custome paynge both inwarde and outwarde of theire merchaundice . . . iii^d of the li., wolle and felle onely except, and thereof thei to paye the custome and subsidie accordynge to the acte of Parliament theropon made.

And that the Schereffez that here after schalbe and bere office be discharged of any acomptes makynge in the Exchequiere, for be any acompt makynge growyth no profit to yo^r gode grace, bott onely fees of the Exchequier, to our greve and importune yerely vexacion and charges.

Also itt wolde pleese yo^r gode grace that all such lyvelode as was purchasede by ow^r predecessours by the lycenc of yow^r noble progenitours, that is to seye, the Manor of Ingham and Cotez, and certayne land and tenementez in the towne of Barkworth in yo^r Com' of Lincoln, wich be nowe kept frome us at this day by S^r Robert Taylboys, knyght, and the heires of Thomas Blount, that yt wolde please yo^r seyd habundant grace that ow^r title in the seyd manor and laundez, and the titlez of the seyd S^r Robert Taylboys and the seyd heires of Thomas Blount, severally, may by yo^r high commandement be called be fore the Lordes of the most discret Councell, theire to be sene, examyned, and to take finall determinacion, in excheuynge of ferther gret and importune chergez and expenes that myght growe to this yo^r pore Cite be the meanez of the sute therefore of the longe processe of yo^r lawez.

And that yt would please yo^r haboundant grace to graunte to the said Mayre and Commonalte of yo^r seyd Cite, in sustentacion and releve thereof, the subsidie of xls. a lb. [on] wolle, yerely to be taken, hadde, and perceyved for such tyme and terme as schalle please yo^r Hyghnez and most discrete Councell to graunte, and to lymet to be schipped at yo^r portez of Boston or Kyngston uppon Hull, in like wise as was graunted to yo^r eid Cite for the relief thereof by Kyng Harry the Sixt, late in dede and nat of right Kyng of Englande.

And where Henry the Sixt, late in dede and nat in right Kynge of England, considerynge the grete poverte of yo^r seyd Cite, of his speciall grace by hys letters patent graunted to the forseyd Mayre, Citezins, and inhabitantez of yo^r seyd Cite, suburb', and precint therof, to be excempyd, discharged, and aquitede of all and ichon dime and quinzyme, and every parcell therof, from thensforth to be geffen or graunted by auctorite of any Parliament to hym, hys heires, [and] successours kynges of Inglande for the terme of xl^a yerez, as in the seyd letters patentes more pl[a]ynely yt apperith; wych yo^r moste noble brodere, Kynge Edward the iiij^th, tenderly rememberynge the forseyd consideracions, by his letters patentes ratified and confermed the forseyd grauntes to the Mayre, Citezins, and inhabitantez of the seyd cite, suburb', and precint of the same and theire successours, as in hys seyd letters patentes it playnely apperith. Wherefore, soveraigne Lorde, that yt myght please yo^r most noble and haboundant grace to have in youre moste pyteuouz remembrance the consideracionz aforseyd, and theruppon to graunte dyscharge and perdone to the Mayre, Citezins, and Comonalte and inhabitantez of yo^r seyd pore Cite, suburbes, and schyre of the same, of and upon any dyme and quynzime, and every parcell of thame, to yow, soueraigne Lorde, yo^r heirez [and] successours from thys day forth to be grauntede, for tyme and terme of lx yerez next folowynge to enduer; any Acte of Parliament or ordinaunce made or to be made to the contrary not w^t staundynge.

And also that yt wolde please yo^r gode grace to graunte to the Mayre and Commons of the seyde Cite of Lincoln, that of all wollez that shalbe caried in any tyme hereafter owte of Lincoln shyre over Trente or Humbre, that thay may be brought to the seyd Cite, and there to be poysed at the commyn beame, paynge for every sakke weght to the seyd Mayre and Commyns for poysage iiij^d, and to have a certificate under a seale there to be lymitte to what porte or towne it schalbe caryed, upon payne of forfitour of the seyd wolle, the one halffe to yo^r grace, the other halffe to be devyded to the Mayre and Commons of the seyd Cite and the . . . . thereof be, by the meanez whereof it is thoght wolde growe other grete profytez to yo^r Hyghnez, and grete wele to yow^r seyd shyre; wollez that sholde be schipped to the Stapull of Calez onely except.

Sessions Papers, &c.

(Box III.)

This box, also, is in great disorder. Its contents consist chiefly of Presentments and Verdicts at Sessions and Courts leet of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, all crumpled together; but it contains also Bailiff's Account Rolls for 3 Hen. IV., 2 Hen. VI., and 5 & 6 Hen. VIII. Also Views of Frankpledge, temp. Eliz., James I., and Charles I.; Sacrament Certificates for 1684 and following years, and for 1720 (including Insolvent Debtors' papers); and Recognisances and Alehouse bonds, temp. Elizabeth.

Court Books.

Box IV.

Court Book, commencing in 1453, and continuing with tolerable regularity for about a hundred years, but containing also enrolments of deeds, wills, and other documents of much later dates. A paper book of 354 folios, bound in the original oak boards and sheepskin.

It commences with a list of the Burgesses in 29 Hen. VI. [1450–1], which, being on the first page, is becoming illegible, and is therefore here transcribed.

Nomina Burgensium existencium in villa de Grymesby anno Regni Regis Henrici sexti vicesimo nono.

Richard Manfeld, Mayor.

John Empyngham.

John Bene.

John Leke.

Roger Barbour.

Henry Beel.

Richard Tomlynson.

John atte Hall.

John Mathewe.

Richard Waltham.

William Gannes.

Richard Asseby.

John Coke.

William Hatclyff.

Henry Est.

Hugh Edon.

John Shirref.

Thomas Hopkynson.

William Graa.

Richard More.

Robert Carlton.

Robert Beverlay.

Robert Pelton.

John Bayous.

William Copeland.

Alan Tomlynson.

William Smyth.

Thomas Bolyngton.

John Grymesby.

William Edon.

Robert Barkour.

John Swanland.

William Betenef.

William Leveryk.

John Bachiler.

John Dowle.

Stephen Cowyke.

Thomas Smyth, junior.

William Markham.

Henry Laceby.

William Graunt.

Thomas Smyth, senior.

John Skendelby.

William Copeland.

Robert Miles.

Richard atte Hall.

Henry Cotes.

William Wayte.

William Fletchour.

John Parsonson.

William Chapman.

John Tarry (?)

Richard Bramley.

John Bramley.

William Rampton.

Thomas Beel.

Robert Takhill.

Robert Baumburgh.

Henry Pelton.

Rolland Neuton.

Robert Peresson.

John Beel.

William Graunt.

William Graa.

Robert Rooe.

John Gannes.

Robert Horner.

Robert Smyth.

James Cope.

Thomas Whitworth. (fo. 1.)

No date.—Copy deed by John Dene and others (apparently acting for the Corporation) releasing to Grimsby Abbey their claim to land which the Abbey held by gift of Amia de Welesby and William Fitz Drogo and John son of William de Welesby, knights. Witnesses, Thomas Moigne and Richard Chedworth, parson of Swalowe. (fo. 9b.)

33 Hen. VI. 1454, Oct. 24.—Copy letter from Robert Bovill, Prior of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England, dated at Clerkenwell, as to William Asseby of Grymesby, a tenant of the said Hospital, as of the Preceptory of Wylughton, co. Lincoln. (fo. 10.)

6 Edw. IV. [1466], Aug. 10.—Deed between Thomas Moigne and John Newport, esquires, of the one part, and Robert Bele, son of William Bele, and Josian his wife, and Janet Bele, sometime wife of Thomas Bele, broder of the said Robert, of the other part; reciting that there had been controversy as to messuages, &c., at Grimsby, late of William Bele, parson of Irby, and Moigne and Newport had been appointed arbitrators by Sir Thomas Burgh, knt. The said Robert is to have the said messuages, as devised by will of the said Sir William Bele, parson of Irby, to William Bele, father of the said Robert. (fo. 37^a.)

10 Edw. IV. [1470], July 12.—Richard, Abbot of Wellow, is admitted a Burgess, "for certain causes the Mayor and Burgesses thereunto moving," and does fealty.

21 Edw. IV. [1481], March 20.—Grant by the King's Escheator to Thomas Moigne, John Brasse, vicar of St. James's, and John Byrd, canon of Wellowe, of all the goods of Richard Manfeld alias Grethed, late of Grimsby, who in his lifetime was outlawed, and his goods forfeited to the King. (fo. 11^a.)

... Edw. IV. [ ], May 7.—A letter from the Abbot of Whitby, read and allowed. Contents not stated. (fo. 11^b.)

4 Edw. IV. [1464], Oct. 1.—Receipt from Ralph, Earl of Westmorland and Lord de Neville, for 30l. in full payment of the fee-farm of 50l. a year, over and above 10l. parcel of said fee-farm released at the instance of the King. (fo. 14^a.)

14 Edw. IV.—Quitclaim from Margaret, widow of Thomas Duffeld of Grimsby, and Thomas Duffeld and Hugh Duffeld, their sons, to John Kydyer, Thomas Moigne, William Grymesby, and Henry Moigue, as to land in Hoole and Itterby in the parish of Clee, which they had by grant of Thomas Spenser.

21 Edw. IV. [1481], Oct. 9.—John Barbour, cap., does fealty for lands in Grimsby late of Roger Barbour his father. (fo. 21^b.)

22 Edw. IV. [1482], Oct. 8.—Robert Haunserd, John del See, son of Patrick del See, George Haunserd, Stephen del See, and Richard Betenef do fealty as feoffees of lands in Grimsby, late of the said Patrick del See, to the use of Patrick's wife for life, and then of the said John del See.

22 Edw. IV. [1482], April 16.—Alice Dyon, daughter and heir of John Dyon, does fealty for her father's lands in Grimsby, and grants same to her mother Joan Carlton, for life.

20 Edw. IV. [1481].—M^d that Tyseday, the xxiij^ti day of Januer' in the [y]er of the rane of Kyng Edward the foritt xx^ti, it is confirmed and ordened by W^m Glasyner, than the Mair . . . . . and by all the Burges of the said town beyne in the Hall the forsade day, that no man nor woman shall be arest for dett w^tin any sewtwarre or Burges howse of the forsede town, nor for dett, nor for trespass, on thies daies undir written, viz., from Zelle Even that none be runge unto the day aftyr Plugh day, Candelmas day, fastynggaugeven, from prime forward, from Schere Thoresday at morne unto the day senyt, all Crose weyke, the iij holydais in Penticost, Corpus Xp[ist]i day, Saynt Austyn day, nor none shall pay tolle that day, or Mydsomer Even, nor on Saynt Petir even, from none be runge of Mary Magdelyn, from none be runge nor of hir day; but yff any do trespas or take any thyng and agrese not w^t the parte thai shalbe arest, and schall to the parte at cuv'abyll tyme than foloyng. (fo. 29^a.)

2 Ric. III. [1484], July 26.—M^d that the Tyseday, the xxvj day of Juli, the secund [y]er of the rene of Kyng Rychard the therd, yt is ordand and agred by W^m Glasyner, than Mair, &c. . . . . . that evere Burges of Grimesby of whum any accyon is takyn of any maner of playnt from he answer w^t suretis relevid to xij men to wage his Law, he shall fynd suffycyant sewryte to the Baillyes to safe tham harmles agans the plancte, or elles he schall be kepyd so un Iorance [in durance ?] for the mater, to the Baillyes be discharged of that accion.

And some further ordinances of a similar nature.

6 Hen. VII.—Andrew Bell of North Shelys in Northumberland, yeoman, admitted a Burgess, and all his sons to be Burgess-born. (fo. 34^a.)

6 Hen. VII. [1490], Oct. 5.—It is agreid that if the Erle of Westmorland or his councell, or eny other in theyr name, wyll rayes of the seid John Hempryngham and Stephan Hattlyff [the Bailiffs] for the fee ferme of the seid towne of Grymesby morover then xxx^ti li. sterlyng for the fee ferme of the seid yere, that then the seid Mayer, Crowners, Baylyffes, and all other Burgesses efter wryten shall surrender oop the sayd towne of Grymesby to the Kynges handes, or els to fynd a better meane for the seid towne in the discharge of the seid Baylyffes more then the sayd somme of xxx^ti li. And the seid Baylyffes to have all maner of rentes and revenyes that pertenyes to the Kynge, as is specyfied in the Kynges extent, of the seid Baylyffes to distrene, &c. . . . . And the said Baylyffes to discharge the seid towne in the Kynges Exchequer, and of all other charges belongynge to the sayd office, and to delyver their acquietaunce in the Court byfor the Mayer and Burgesses.

Signed by William Vicars, Mayor, and 21 burgesses. (fo. 34^b.)

4 Hen. VII. [1489.] Feb. 12. Letter of T. Cheyne (?).— Right welbeloued frendes, I comaunde me to yow. And wher as S^r Thomas FitzWilliam, knyght, the Recordo^r of London, hathe a yerly fee of v markes graunted of my Lord of Westmorland, by his lettres pattentes, for terme of his lif, of the feferme of the towne of Grymesby, whiche ys behynde unpaid for an hole yer ending at Mighellmes the iiijth yer of the reigne of the King that now ys; I will and charge yow that ye upon sighte of this writing, ye content and pay to the said S^r Thomas, or to suche as he will therto assigne, the said v markes, whiche ys in yo^re handes unpaid for the said yer ending at Mighellmes. And so yerly from henc forwerd to content and pay the said S^r Thomas his said fee, according to his said lettres patentes, as ye will have my good wille and favor. Any restreynt or comaundement by my said Lord or me hertofore made to the contrary notwithstanding. And this my writing shalbe to yow in that behalfe a sufficyent warant and discharge. Wreten at London, the xij^th day of Februare, the iiij^th yer of the Reigne of King Henry the vij^th.

T. Cheyne.(?)

Addressed: To the Mayre and Bayliffs of the Kinges Towne of Grymesbye. (Sewed to fo. 41.)

17 Edw. IV. [1477], Oct. 8.—Nicholas Halley produced in Court, and desired to be enrolled, a testimonial letter dated 10 Sept. 1477 from S^r John Stone, vicar of Earyth, William Miller, John Jurden, Thomas Brunse, Thomas Poleryn, and John Brocke, of the county of Kent, certifying the will of John Mason, "shepman," who died in the parish of Grimsby, and that "one Nicholas Halley hath greid and boght his ship of the awner. The name of the ship is called Thomas of London."

Will of John Mason, "shepman," 20 Feb. 1476[–7]. To be buried where it shall please God. To the high altar of Earyth, for tithes forgotten, 2 wax candles weighing 4 lb. The parish clerk, iiij^d. The sacrist, ij^d. Residue of goods to Agnes, his wife, executrix. (fo. 42^b.)

8 Hen. VII. [1493], May 11.—Deed of Lady Elizabeth Tunstall, widow, daughter and heiress of Sir William Fraunke, knt., and Thomas Tunstall, her son and heir, manumitting Robert Abbot, of Itterby, in the parish of Clee, son of William Abbot, late of the same place, with all his family, as follows :—

Omnibus Christi fidelibus ad quos hoc presens scriptum pervenerit, Nos, domina Elizabetha Tunstall, vidua, et filia et heres Willelmi Fraunke, militis, et Thomas Tunstall, filius et heres dicte domine Elizabethe Tunstall, salutem in Domino sempiternam. Noveritis nos, predictos dominam Elizabetham Tunstall et Thomam Tunstall, ex nostra bona et speciali voluntate, omnino pro nobis et heredibus nostris manumisisse ac ab omni . . . . servitute et servicio liberasse Robertum Abbot, de Itterby, in parochia de Clee, filium Willelmi Abbot, nuper de eadem, nativum nostrum, cum tota sequela sua procreata et procreanda, cum omnibus bonis suis et catallis, terris, et tenementis. Et quod idem Robertus Abbot cum tota sua sequela procreata vel procreanda . . . . . et imperpetuum gaudeat libertate sua, non obstante quod dictus Robertus infra feodum nostrum in securitate [servitute ?] nostra fuerit oriundus. In cujus rei testimonium huic presenti scripto nostro sigilla nostra apposuimus. Datum undecimo die mensis Maij, Anno regui regis Henrici Septimi octavo. (fo. 43^a.)

22 Edw. IV. [1483]. 14 Jan. Memorandum.—M^d the Tiseday, xiiij^ti day of Januar', A° R. R. E. iiij^ti xxij°, that William Glasyner, then Mair of Grimesby . . . . . . and dyvers odir Burges sold to Steven del See and to dyvers mo iiij ^xx esch trese growyng in the Spetyll Garthes of Grimesby for iij^li vj^s viij^d, to the expenc' to be made to our Sofferane Lord our Kyng, and to our gode Lord the Erelle of Westmorland, and to his Consell, for the grete necessite and wellefare of the said town. Proviso semper that as sone as the forsaid townchipe may hafe godes in comon for the town, thai schall spend and ware on and for the said Spetyll House at dyvers tymes 5 marcs. (fo. 46^b.)

No date. Petition of the Mayor, Bailiffs, &c. to [the Earl of Westmorland].—Besechyng mekely youre suppliantez the Maier, Baylies, Burges, and inhabytantez of the Kynges towne of Grymesby, in the shire of Lyncoln, that it please youre gracious Lordeship to understonde that wher thei fynde, by olde remembrance, that the saide towne hath bene of grete worshipp, and inhabyte w^t many notable marchandes maryners, and craftes menn to the nowmbr' of lij score housaldes and mo, and all is now so decayde and waysted be infortoun off were and waystyng of the see, wherby the haven is wrekyd and stopped, by the which the resorte of marchandyes is destroyed, and the bygyng gone doun, so that ther is not left within the saide Town xij men of substance that is able to uphold and repare the seide Towne, and upp holde and maynteyn the iij parysh kyrkes, ij howses of freres, an Abbey, and a house of nonnes w^t in the seide Towne. And also the grettest cause of wastyng theroff has bene gret charge that thei have had of leveinge and paying of a yerly rentt of 1 li. payd to yo^r Lordeshipp, over the charge of xj li. that is paid to the said Abbay; the which charge hase pute forth and waisted away the inhabitantez ther was wount to be, and yete dayly it waystes and goys away, and none is lyke ther to abyde; and that is grete pety, and to the Kyng and his heieres of grete hurte in that parte of his Realme, for it has bene a grete strenght and shulde be to all the countre a safe porte and a kay. And also it apperes be old bokes of CC yeres sithen that it was in quired be dyvers inquestes of the seide towne, that it was than in valour of the saide lxj li., and viij li. over, that the Kyng gave yerly to the Bailles for the gediryng theroff; for the which charge ther dar no people com therto to inhabit and abyde, with owten yo^r gracious and abundant hynesses remedy in these premesis in tyme passed, havyng consideracion heroff, has yerly abayted theym xx li. of yo^r seide 1 li., the which thei have no certanty off, but att yo^r pleasere; and yett the resydewe is to theym inportunable, and yerly undose ij men that be chosyn Baylefe for the yer. Wherfor ther dar no people cum ther to inhabyt, and so the towne is lyke utterly to go away, w^t owtyn yo^r gracious remedy be had in that behalfe, and blyssed disposycion wold consider howe thatt yo^r saide suppliantez have the seide towne in fe ferm of the Kynge, and yerly yeldys the rent to yo^r seide Lordshipp. Wold it therfor please yo^r noble disposicion for to be agreable to yo^r seide suppliantez to resave of them yerly xx li. and no mor, and ther upon youre saide Lordshipp and yo^r heyres yerly to aquyte the saide towne in the Kynges excheker at London by yo^r aquietance, as ye doo at this day: this to be graunted to yo^r seid suppliantez, ther heires, and their successoures under yo^r grete seall for ever more. Thiese premesis not hade, oure saide towne is utterly distroyed, the which us must nedis shewe to the Kynges gude grace, if so be it may be. And if it pleased yo^r gracious Lordeshipp to remember the premesis, and be agreable to theym, than thei truste to Allmyghty God the Towne shall encresse and inhabett agen, to yo^r grete pleasour, and all the inhabytauntez ther wellyng ever to be bounden to pray to all myghty God for yo^r gude prosperite and longe tyme to endure, to the pleasur of all myghty God, who have yowe in his blyssed kepyng, both body and soull. (fo. 47^a.)

3 Hen. VII. [1488], May 31. Bolyngbrook.—Letter from Thomas Thokheth, esq., feodary of the Duchy of Lancaster within the county of Lincoln, certifying that Thomas Corteys of Clee, as a tenant of the Duchy of Lancaster, was free from all tolls &c. by the King's letters patent. (Sewed to fo. 51.)

3 Hen. VII. [1487], Oct. 2. Memorandum.—M^d the Teusday, the 2nd day of October, &c. witness that William Glasyner, Mayor, John Glasyner, William Forman . . . . . . and all the Conburges underwritten conventyd and agrede that if the Erell of Westmorland, or any other in his name, wyll rays of the forseid John Glasyner and William Forman for the fee farm of the said Grymesby more than xxvj^li xiij^s iiij^d, that then the seid Mayor, Coroners, Bailyffs, w^th all the Conburgesses und^r wryten shall surrender the seid town to the Kings hand, (fn. 15) or els to fynd a better mene for the seid town in discharge of the seid Bailyffs; and the seid Baylyffs to have all maner of rents and revenyes, and they to dyscharge the seid town of all other charges belongyng to ther office. Subscribed by 30 burgesses. (fo. 52^a.)

6 Hen. VII. [1490], Aug. 2.—From henceforth no maner of man inhabityng w^tin the Burgh of Grimsby shall have nor kepe w^tin hows eny bussell skepp, whych is the iiij^th parte of a quarter, to mete w^t, excepte a cole mesure. And that evere man having a mesure called the London bushell, whych is viij parte of a quarter, that his said London bushell be gude and able accordyng to the standerd, and sealed w^t the seall of the said Burgh of Grymesby. And who that doyth the contrary, and be fun gylty thereof, shall forfytt to the said Burgh xij^d als oft as any ar fund thereof defectyff. (fo. 55^b.)

10 Hen. VII.—It is agreed that no person shall be arrested, nor any toll taken, on Wednesday, the market day. (fo. 56^a.)

7 Hen. VII. [1492], April 10.—It is found that William Glasyner, burgeis, contrary to his Burgeis oath, hath behaved hymself contrary to the Mayor and his Burgesses, whereas he went to William Lilburn, gentilman and burgess, saying thies wordes folowyng: "William, I requer yewe that Maister Myssynden and ye may be at one and frendes as gentilmen, and if it be so hee and ye be frendes and luffers, he setts littill by the Mayer and other his Burges of Grymesby." Notwithstanding, the Mayor and Burgesses, in common Hall, pardon and forgive the said William Glasyner, on condition that he shall from henceforth be of gude and trewe demeanor, &c. (fo. 58^b.)

13 Hen. VII. [1498], Aug. 4.—James Beverlay, Mayor. John Clement of the City of London, son and heir of William Clement, did fealty for his father's burgage lands and tenements.

The Discent and Petigrewe of the above wryten John Clement.

M^d that William Canon, in the yere of O^r Lord M^l CC and od yeres, had issue lawfully begotten Peter, whych had issue Henry, and this Henry had issue John and Isabell. John died w^towte issue, and Isabell toke unto husband Walter Keleby, otherwyse called Stalyngbrought, the whych had issue betwyx tham Robert, whych Robert Keleby had issue Johane, whych Johane toke unto husband John Clement, the whych Johane and John had issue betwix tham William Clement, fader unto the said John Clement. (fo. 61.)

12 Hen. VII. [1497], May 21.—At this Court William Enderby produced, and desired to be enrolled, the will of John Enderby of Grymesby, dated 27 Aug. 1496. To be buried in the churchyard of S^t James, Grimsby. To Lincoln Cathedral, xij^d. High altar and fabric of S^t James's church, vj^d each. Fabrics of S^t Mary's church, S^ts Augustine and Olave's church, Welhowe, and churches of S^t Leonard's house of Nuns, of the Friars of the order of S^t Francis, and of the order of Hermits of Grimsby, vj^d each. To my wife Elizabeth, my capital messuage and lands in Staynton in le Hole, and all other my lands elsewhere in co. Lincoln, for her life, with remainder to my right heirs. My elder son John, all my lands in Elvyngton co. York. My younger son John and my son Thomas a cow and 10 sheep each. My daughters Margaret and Sibbell two cows and 10 sheep each. Residue of goods to my wife Elizabeth, executrix. Witnesses: Master John Brasse, vicar of S^t James's, Grimsby; John Empryngham, then Mayor of Grimsby; Stephen de la See and James Beverley, then Coroners; James Dynewell and Thomas Symkynson, then Bailiffs. (fo. 62.)

1500, June 11.—Award of Arbitrators between the right worshipful S^r Richard Humbleton, Abbot of Welhowe, and S^r Robert Smyth, parson of o^r Lady church in Grimsby. (fo. 62^b.)

19 Hen. VII. [1504.] March 6.—Andrew Wodd of Lethe, merchant and maryner, charged by John Hattlyff of Grimsby with refusing to accept payment for merchandise in current money, saying, "This is but oaff." The said John answered and said "It is no oaff; it is the Kyngis mynt currant in Yngland, that I and the Kyngis lege people may not refuse." And the said Andrew answered and said, "And yo^r Kynge were here p^rsent, I wold not take ther of one peny. I owe hym neither dewte nor servece," &c. (A loose parchment, after fo. 62^b.)

[4 Edw. IV., 1464 ?] (fn. 16) Letter of Ralph Earl of Westmorland and Lord Nevill.—To my Right trusty and wele beloved frendes the Maire and Bailefes of the toune of Grymesby.

Right trusty and wele be loved frendes, I grete yowe oftymes wel. And as for my rent of yo^r toune of Grymesby, wherein yee have not onely delayed and witholden my paymentes, but of [i.e. have] also sewed to Kyng . . . . . intendyng therby to [put ?] me fro the substance of my said rent, thowghe I truste in his gode . . . . that after myn . . . . . services to his highness he wele be content and pleased that I occupye and enjoye myn inheritaunce under his lawe and gracioux supportacion, as wele as eny of his trew and louly subjectes and liegemen within this his reawme; and nat withstaundinge yo^r unkyndenes, at the reverence and contemplacion of the Kynges said wryttyng, so that I at this tyme be truly paid and content of the residewe of my said rent, I will for gyve and pardon yowe of my said dewte x^li fro this yer. And as from aftre this I will, duerryng my pleasur, yerly do yow such ease and favoure like as I fynde cause and redy payment of my sead rent at my termes and days. And if yee faill of my paymentes atte this tyme, then in defawte I will take next way and meyne to have my sead rentes, as the law will, without ony delaye or favoure, ayther nowe or here aftir. [As] god knowth, who have you on kepynge. Writtyn at my Castell of Brauncepath, the xxiij day of Aprile.

Rawfe Erle of Westmorland and Lord Nevyll.

The following entry is dated 17 July 16 Hen. VII., but the next page 2 Hen. VII. (fo. 71^a.)

1344, March 18.—Deed from Edmund de Grymesby, clerk, granting to William de Shropeshire, of Waltham, chaplain, seven shops, 12 acres of land, and 5 acres of pasture in Grimsby which he had by gift of Sir John de Grymesby, rector of Bynteworth, and which were formerly of Gilbert Carter; upon trust to celebrate in S^t James's church for the souls of the said Edmund's father and mother, brother and sisters, and all Burgesses of the town, and for the good estate of the said Edmund, "et domini Joh'is Rayner et Willelmi Rayner, fratrum suorum, ac sororum, filiorum, et filiarum, nepotum, et consanguineorum suorum, et Maioris et omnium Burgensium," &c. according to the tenor of letters patent.

Chantry in the nave of Holy Trinity, commonly called Rayner's Chantry. Then follow ordinances. (fo. 74^b.)

16 Hen. VII.—Venit Robertus Garyng, qui conduxit in uxorem Margaretam, qui nuper fuit uxor Roberti Swalowe, burgensis hujus Burgi, defuncti . . . . and does fealty, and is admitted a Burgess, for a fine of 6s. 8d. (fo. 79^a.)

17 Hen. VII.—William Buttler, who married Joan, widow of John Whytley, a burgess, is admitted. (fo. 80^a.)

18 Hen. VII.—John Auncell, maryner, who married Joan, widow of Robert Tailor, walker, is admitted. (fo. 80^b.)

19 Hen. VII.—John Shefeld comes and prays that Lady Johan Hyllyerd may be excused from being elected to the office of Bailiff in respect of her lands, &c. Granted for a fine of 20s. The Court also grants that Christopher Hillyerd, her son and heir, shall be a burgess born, and likewise Peter and Richard, sons of Peter Hilyerd and the said Lady Johan.

The Court in like manner excused Johan Toynton, widow, from the same office. (fo. 81^a.)

13 Hen. VIII.—It is agreed by hall the Burges beyng in the Hall at that day, that John Atclyff, for unfyttand demener and ill wordes had and donne to Mr. Richard Thymylby, then beynge Maire, and delygenly doynge is offys, shall be obliged ether to set xl days in the Hall, or ever to lose his fredom at this day; and if it forton that ever herafter he trobull ongodely the Maire and the Kynges Cowrt herafter hodurwise than be comys a trewe and fathfull Burges to be hav, it is agreid that the seid John shall be takyn and kast over Barr, and lose is fredom for ever. (fo. 104^a.)

37 Hen. VIII.—It is agreyd that if it chawns Elizabeth Mawyn to marry betwyxt this and Holy Roydd day next ensuyng, that then the seyd man that marryeth the sayd Elizabeth be free burgeys by the sayd monnay that Elizabeth shuld pay, &c. (Loose leaf, after fo. 107.)

It is ordenit that non unfreman shall opten or have the fredom of this Burghe, bot such as will pay to the use of this Burghe xxs.; and qhatt Burges procoris or grauntes his mynd the contrari, to pay all such money as he so willith or desireth to be abaittyd. (fo. 125^a.)

6 Hen. VIII.—It is ordeynid that no maner of person dwelling within this Burgage from this day forward shall cume at no tyme into Common Hall to drynke and make revyll with any person which sytts in the said Hall at the commandement of Mr. Maier, except the said Maier licence, &c. (fo. 161^a.)

7 Hen. VIII.—Thomas priour of the monastery of Ormesby comes and binds himself to build "an abull howse" on a holding near the Cros in the Market Stead, belonging to the said place of Ormesby. (fo. 164^a.)

8 Hen. VIII.—It is agreid that Pettir Mason, mair, at anny tym herafter schall hav his fre Liberte in goynge and commynge to and fro his Backhows w^thout anny Serjeant or Mas befor hym at any tym w^thin his year of his offic or in goynge and commyng to his next nabor hows; and also Michael his son schall ber the Mas affor hym unto that the said Peter Mason may convenyently get an abyll man to be his Sergeant. (fo. 168^a.)

1499.—It is recorded byfor William Vikers, then Mayer, and all other Burgesses in the Court present, that John Smyth of Staynton, tenaunt in Swallowe, hath graunted to the seid Mayer and burgesses that he shall not resyne his holdynge to eny gentileman nor to none other man whych shall by maistershipp take eny partie agenst the Mayer, Bailyffes, and Burgesses, or theme to put to troble, or w^thold all or eny parcell of his rent, [or else] that the said John and his heyres shall forfet his seid holdynge.

7 Eliz. Feb. 12.—Long deed by Silvester Bellow of Newsted, co. Linc., esq., to Hugh Kirsocke of Kingston on Hull, yeoman. (fo. 188^a.)

1573, Dec. 8.—Regulations for the Common Ferry to Hull, fixing the fares for burgesses, &c. (fo. 191^b.)

1530, Nov. 26.—Will of John Lyttyll of Grett [Grimsby]. To be buried in the churchyard of St. James. To our Lady Church of Lyncoln, xijd. The high altar, ijs. To Robert Hyll, my wife's second gowne. Thomas Watson's wife, her third gown. My daughter Johan Johnson, xiijs. iiijd., one brass pot, and two platters. To the Awstyn Freers, to pray for me, iijs. iiijd. Saint Francis Freers, xijd. To Patryck Hanslaye and his wife, my daughter, all my lands in Grimsby, they keeping an obit for 50 years to the value of ijs. yearly, to be given to six priests in the church of St. James Grimsby, for singing mass and dirige on St. Martin the Bishop's day, viz., to every priest iiijd.; "and the owner of the same tenementes and landes shall cawse the bellman to go abowt the towne to warne all weldysposyd pepull to cum thyther and to pray for all Crysten sawlles." If the said Patrick and his wife fail to carry out this my will, I give my said lands to the Mayor and Burgesses on the same conditions. Residue to said Patrick Hansley, executor. Witnesses: the Prior of the Freers Austyns, Brian Curtas, John Balyff, and William Bond. (fo. 204^b.)

8 Eliz. [1566], 30 April, is enrolled the Will of Robert Drowrie of Grimsby, dated 26 Aug. 1562. To be buried in St. James's churchyard, at the west end, beside my wife and other friends. Son-in-law John Hall, a house in North St. Mary's Gate, Grimsby. Daughter Alice, a house on the east of the said house, and at her death to her son Robert Hogge. Son-in-law John Graye, various furniture. Daughters Isabell and Katherine, a chest. Alice Hall, daughter of John Hall, a possenett. Residue to the said John Hall, executor. Witnesses: Christopher Chappell, Paule Hall, and Steven Judgeson. (fo. 210^b.)

17 Eliz. [1575], Nov. 9.—It is found by the jury that Agnes Gray, Isabell Marshall, and Katherine Clarke are next heirs of Robert Drowrie as to a house in North St. Marie Gate. (fo. 211^a.)

1 Hen. VIII. [1510], Jan. 13.—It is agreed that it shall be lawful for Sir Wm. Tirwhit and Sir Robert Winkfeld to be Burgesses in Parliament for the town, or else to the said Robert with John Hennage, esq., notwithstanding the election; and that Bernard de le See and Philip Myffyn shall go to Maister Tirwhit to Lincoln, to get a bond signed, indemnifying the town against Knights' fees, &c.

Signed by John Empringham, Mayor, and 21 burgesses. (fo. 224^a.)

13 Hen. VIII. [1522], Jan. 31.—Deed by William Catterall of Glamforth Briggs and Thomas Werisley and Janet his wife, late wife and executrix of Robert Catterall of Grimsby. The said William Catterall is to have the guardianship of Thomas, Anne, Barbara, and Beatrice, children of the said Robert Catterall. (fo. 227^b.)

14 Hen. VIII. [1523], March 19.—John Hennych, junior, gent., and Robert Lorde, of Grimsby, burgess, chosen Burgesses for Parliament, each of them undertaking to bear his own expenses. (fo. 230^a.)

Upon Relikque Sonday was William Hatclyff, the son of Stevyn Hatclyffe, prest to go to the Kynges besynes, and he sayd "How schuld I go to the Kynges besynes and leyffe my tytill ?" And Mr. Hatclyff sayd to hym this, that he schuld mak William Hatclyffe his son to be for hym and to deliver to hym all the ryght [and] tytyll that he had as cowld be fon by Mast' Hennech at hys comyng. And so we, Mr. Peter Mason and John Fotherby, with other sertan officers [met ?], and so in owr presens he cam to thre grondes that he mayd tytill un to, and gaff un to William Hatclyff, son of Mr. William Hatclyffe, all the ryght and tytill that schall be fond in hym at the syght of Mr. Hennech, as afor is sayd, to the intent to pay is dettes as the law wyll, yff so be that the law wyll geve me owthe. (fo. 230^b.)

6 Hen. VIII. [1514], Sept. 6.—Deed by W^m Hatteclyffe, son and heir of Stephen Hatteclyffe, to John Kyngston, as to lands late of Robert Cattelyn and Alice his wife. (fo. 234^b.)

26 Hen. VIII. [1534], Sept. 1.—Regulations for fines payable by persons seeking the freedom of the Borough by birth, marriage with a freeman's widow, or by apprenticeship. (fo. 255^b.)

32 Hen. VIII. [1541], March 8, is enrolled the will of Thomas Chalende of Great Grimsby, merchant, dated 3 Jan. 1540[–1]. To be buried in S^t George Ile in S^t James's church. Our Lady of Lincoln iiij^d, and the altar of same iiij^d. High altar of S^t James's, xij^d. My wife Emott, a third of my goods, and the house I dwell in, with my mylln and brew howse, and the howse in Scharthow, &c., for her life. My son Edward all my lands in Grimsby after my wife's death, except a howse bought of Maister Schoppholm, which I give to Jenet my daughter after her mother's death. Son Edward, various sheep, &c. Daughters Emott and Jenet, two sheep each. Sir Peter Mundye, iij^s iiij^d, to pray for my soul. An obit of vj^s viij^d to be done for my soul for x years. Residue to wife and daughters Emott and Jenet, executrixes. Overseers, Master Smythe and John Kyngston. To S^t James's church work, vj^s viij^d. Witnesses, Master Cooke, Symon Semar, and S^r Wylliam Grege. (fo. 265^b.)

No date (previous entry 33 Hen. VIII.)—For Grymesby to pay. The Charter cost—

The holle charge to conferm this charter. The cost of the man expens w^t charge xxj^s. (Loose paper, at fo. 272.)

1549, Aug. 6.—The copy of the lettor of atornay of John Smyth of Hull, marchand, directyd from Hanserdame in Holland.

To all theym that schall see or hear redd owr oppen lettors, grettyng. Whe, Maio^r, Burghmasters, Rulers, and Counsayll of the towne of Hanserdame, lat wett, certyfying w^t knowleige of trewth that byfor us dyd apper schypper Nanmynk Clarson, owr conburgeis, with the worshipfull circumspect M^r Henryk Diryksoon, owr comburgeis, Master at this tym, and John Ysbrantson Holostoyt, o^r comburgeis, in Counsell, owners and furth setters of the said [sic] schypp, comprehendyng together all other owners of the schyp aforsaid, and have in that qualite constituted and gyffen powre by theis presentes in all better fourm to the discreit Jamys [sic] Smyth, schewer of theis, for theym constitutantes, to warn, demaunde, and to receyve restitucion of such goodes as from the said schypper Namynk Clarsson certayn tym passed have beyn takken of on Rychard Olyver, schypper of the schypp namyd the Mykkell of Hull, Royse of Grymysbe, and Robert Rachton of Scharbrugh, all inhabitantes and subjectes of the kyngdom of Ingland, w^t theyr adherrentes, w^t all dommaiges and interest in the cawis of the said Namynk sustenyd, and for the same to pleyt and to persue to an end byfor all Juges, and to obserf all terms of the law, to mayk composicione and doyng to gyf qwyttans of his receypt, and to keyp fre from all aft^r demaundes and harmleis, and on or more in his plays to substytute; and further generally and specially to doo and levy herin all that wiche they constitutantes in theyr own persons myght or owght to doo; promysyng allso to keip and caws to be kept sure and of good worth for ever all that wiche by theyr constitutyd and his substitutyd every of theym in the forsaid cawse, w^t all that may concern the same, shalbe doon or leyft, in all condicion as if it wher downe by theym constitutantes in theyre own persons; and all w^tout frauyde or gyle. In witnes of trewith we have causeid the seall of caussys of the said town of Hanserdame herunto be appendyd. Geven the sext day of August in the yer of O^r Lord God m^lo v^c xl and ix.

Sett ouer owytt of Duche in Inglysch by me Hubbard, scryuen'(?), notary, aft^r my capacyte, manu mea. (fo. 285^b.)

6 Edw. VI. [1552], Nov. 13.—Bond by John Bellow of Newstead, esq., to pay and deliver to John Dean, alias Lawrance, bastard son of S^r Robert Lawrence, clerk, deceased, the sum of 50l., a silver salt with a cover, a gilt cup and cover, 5 silver spoons, and a gold signet, when he shall attain the age of 21, in satisfaction of the goods late of said S^r Robert Lawrance, and Katherin Mayson, alias Lawrance, sister of the said S^r Robert. Also to keep the said John Dean at school till 16. (fo. 289^b.)

1 Eliz. [1559], Jan. 12.—Bond by John Bellow of Newstead, co. Linc., esq., to indemnify the town against his costs and those of Master Harrington, chosen Burgesses for Parliament. (fo. 291^b.)

7 Eliz. [1565], July 26.—Bond by Lawrence Meres, Recorder, to come twice or oftener every year to keep the sessions, &c. (fo. 301^b.)

9 Hen. VII. [1493], 4 Sept. Letter from Henry Lacy to Master Hempryngham.—Maister Hempryngham, in ryght gud herty maner I recommend me unto you, hertely thankyng yow of all kyndnes. Ser, the caus of my wrytyng unto yow at this tyme is that I may be bold on you to have the over syght of all such howsyng and ground which I have in Grimesby, that is to wyt, v schoppis by Sant James Chirch, and a stabull w^t a myln hous, w^t a ground to the same by John Stopis hous, and also a ground that was Wylsons adioinyng to the same; whych stabull and myln hous betwix my broder Robert Lacy and William Butler and o^r nebur must be repared, and scharply and schortly thei haue promysed me; and so doon I hartely pray yow to se the said howsing and ground orderd to the best, and that no person occupy yt bot for the mony; and my v schoppes to lat thame . . . . as you thynk good to honest and trusty persons. The rent off evere schop is iijs. iiijd., and me thynk better it is to gyff somewhat a gane than to mynych any thyng theroff; but I fully remyt evere thyng to yo^r wysdom, and as yow may resave any mony to repare the said schopes . . . . . . is also my broder and I standes in bargannyng for the same, but not fully agreed nor concludit; wherefor now, senc I depart out of this contre, ther is no man w^tin Grimesby I cane so fathefully trust, nor be so bold upon as yow; and yf yt ly in my poure I trust to serve yo^r kyndnes. Also you schall resave be this brynger iij kays to the schoppes, and tho that wantes, my broder Robert praye Henry Skytt' his servaunt to mak theme, and he will content hym for the same. And thus I pray Jh'u have yow in his mersy and full kepyng; amen. At Kelby, on Thursday, the iiij day of Septembr' A° ix. H. vij^t.

Yowr

Henry Lacy. (fo. 317^b.)

1 & 2 Ph. & Mary [1555], June 26.—Deed by John Bellow of Newstead (de Novo loco) on Anckeholm, esq., to Philip Tyrwhytt, esq., Richard Hempryngham, Thomas Apleyerd, Henry Thryscrosse, John Goldwell, Thomas Alldred, and John Apleyerd, gentlemen. Grant of all his lands, &c. in Grimsby, Clee, Bradley, Little Cotes, and Stallingbro', to the use of himself and Ursula his wife. (fo. 333^a.)

No date.—Rental of Clee. (13 Hen. VIII. is the date of the preceding entry.) Rents due to the town of Grimesby:—

(fo. 345^b.)

17 Hen. VII. [1502], May 31.—Robert Lacye, maior. To the Court came Robert Gardner and Henry Hill of Walberdyswyk, tenants of the manor of Blydbure, co. Suffolk, and produced Royal letters of 30 Jan. 1 Hen. VII. [1486], which are recited.

They are addressed to all Sheriffs, and command them to permit the men and tenants of the manor of Blydebure, in co. Suffolk, which is of the ancient demesne of the Crown (as appears by certificate sent by the Treasurer and Chamberlains into the Chancery of King Henry VI.), to be quit from paying toll and contributing to the expenses of Knights sent to Parliament, according to ancient custom.

Wherefore it was considered by the Court that the tenants of the said Manor were free of toll within the King's town of Grimsby. (fo. 346^b.)

1305, xvii. kl. April.—Deed of Walter de Well and Walter son of Richard Storme of Itterby, parish of S^t Saviour Clee, which is appropriated to Grimesby Abbey, as to tithes of fish, &c. (fo. 349.)

15 Hen. VII. [1500]. Feast of Pentecost.—Deed of Katherine Hyll of Mych Glenn, co. Leic., widow, and Tho^s Hyll of Stowghton, co. Leic., leasing their mead in Baxstergate in Grymesby, north of a tenement of Dame Elizabeth Cunstabull, widow, to Alexander Forrest of Grymesby, burgess. (fo. 349.)

8 Hen. VII. [1493], March 29.—Letters of the Mayor, Barons, and Commons of Wynchelse, in favour of John Fermour.

1477, Aug. 17.—Will of John Sheryffe of Great Grimsby, merchant. To be buried in the church of B. Mary the Virgin at Calesse. Lincoln Cathedral, 6^s 8^d. S^t James's Church, Grimsby, 5 marks. Chapel of the Stapyll in Calesse, 20^s. Image of S^t Thomas there, 40^d. High altar of S^t James's Church, for tithes forgotten, 6^s 8^d. Humberston Abbey, 20^s. W^m Brown, 40^d. Eliz^th Brown, 6^s 8^d. Katherine my wife, my principal house wherein I reside at Grimsby for her life, with remainder to my son Robert Sheryffe. I also leave him other houses and lands (described) at Grimsby and Bradley. Son John Sheryffe, a messuage in S^t Marygate, &c. Son W^m Sheryffe, a messuage in Brighowgate, &c. Daughter Eliz^th Sheryffe. Residue to wife and sons Robert and John, executors. (fo. 353.)

25 Eliz.—It is ordered that no manner of person, beinge a laborer, that dothe or shall come to dwell and inhabitte w^thin this burroughe shall not worke as a laborer there before he be admytted by M^r Maior and his bretheryne to dwell here and to worke as a laborer, and paie to the use of the townes chamber 2^s for his furst amyttance.

Every shomaker, taler, cobler, glover, smythe, weaver, tynker, and such like occupa&ctilde;ons paye to th' use of the townes chambre for their saide furste admyttance, yf he be a maried person, 3^s 4^d, and yf he be a syngler person, 5^s.

Every pedder 5^s, marcer 10^s, draper 10^s, and such like occupa&ctilde;ons 10^s each.

Every marchant venterrer and such like 20^s.

No owner of property in the borough to let any house or shop to any person not an inhabitant of the borough.

3 Hen. VII. [1488], May 20.—Contemporary copy of a long charter as to grant by King Edward [III.] to John Duke of Aquitaine and Lancaster and Blanche his wife of the possessions of Henry Earl of Lancaster, father of Henry Duke of Lancaster. (fo. 354.)

11 Hen. [VII. ? 1496 ?], June 26.—Royal letters as to the inhabitants of Tetney, Hole, Itterby, and Thrunscoe, parcel of the Duchy of Lancaster. (fo. 355^b.)

14 Hen. VII. [1499], June 14.—Royal letter of protection for two Scotch merchants, under the Signet.

Henry by the grace of God, Kyng of England and of Fraunce, and Lord of Irland, to all mayers, scheryffes, bailyffes, constables, coustumers, comptrollers, serchers, kepers of poortes and passages, and to all maner other o^r officers, mynistres, and subgietes, as wele by see and fressh waters as by land, to whome thies oure lettres shalbe shewed, and to evere of theym, gretyng. We late you witt that of our grace especiall, for certein consideracions us moving, we have by thiese presentes taken Andrewe Mailnynge and Andrewe Swan, of the Realme of Scotland, merchantes, theire facto^rs and attorneyes, unto o^r proteccion, tuicion, saufgarde, and defence, and have licenced them joinctly and severally to come into this o^r Rey^me, and all other places under o^r obeisaunce, withe a shipe or shippes of the portage of oon hundred tonnes or undre, laden w^t almaner goodes and merchandises, and w^t two maisters, sixtene maryners, thre pages, and also w^t harnesse and alle other thynges lawfull and necessary for the defence of them and of their said ship and goodes; and the seid merchandises to uttre w^tin o^r said Realme and obeisaunce for their most profitt and advauntages; and therupon to recharge the same ship or shippes in the same o^r Realme and obeisaunce w^t all maner greynes, victailles, goodes, and merchaundises lieffull, and theym to conveye or doo to be conveied into Scotland aforseid, their to make like uttraunce of theym; and undre the same foarme to goo and come, passe and repasse, as well by see as by land, abide and sujourne w^t in this o^r seid Realme and obeisaunce, as often as theim shall lyke, durynge the space of oon hole yere next ensuynge the date herof. Wherfore we woll and straitly charge you that ye quietly permitte the said Andrewe Mailnyng and Andrewe Swan, and theire seid facto^rs and atto^rneis, to use and enioye the hole effect of thies presentes, w^tout eny lawfull lette or impedyment of you or eny of you to the contrarye, as ye woll eschewe o^r grete displeasour and aunswere unto us therin at yo^r perilles. Provided alwaies that of o^r custumes, subsidies, and other duties to us rightfully belonging for the said greynes, victailles, goodes, and merchaundises we be faithfully aunswered. Provided also that undre colour hereoff they nor eny of theym doo or procur to be done eny thyng prejudiciall unto us, o^r said Realme, or o^r subgiettes of the same, upon peyn of forfiture and breche of this o^r sauf conduct, w^t other perilles and daungiers which may ensue unto theim in that bihalff. Given undre oure Signet, att oure Mano^r of Shene, the xiiij^th day of Juyn, the xiiij yere of o^r Reigne. (fo. 356^b.)

At the end of the volume are entered the original bonds, with their signatures and seals, from the Members of Parliament for the Borough, to indemnify the town against expense. Amongst them are:—

After fo. 361, the folios are numbered (apparently in error) 352, 353, and 354.

The second fo. 355 is in a bundle of fragments of Court Books in Box VII.

Court Book, 1539–1548. A paper book of 125 folios, stitched into a pre-Reformation MS. cover.

Most of these Court Books contain (besides the usual routine business of the Mayor's Court) Sessions for hiring servants and apprentices (when the names of masters and servants, &c. are entered), and Sessions for weights and measures, and trade marks.

31 Hen. VIII.—Leonard Curteys, Mayor.

A deed of John Kyngston of Grimsby is entered, as to a ship called the Anne of Cales, bought of John Skarlett.

Henry Whytgyft, (fn. 17) a juror.

37 Hen. VIII.—"One coytte, collour violet," praysed by Henry Witgift and others.

1 Edw. VI.—William Bond, the Treasurer, to have for his pains, the 3rd penny that comes into this Court by frayes. (fn. 18)

John Bellow, esq., Alderman, agrees to serve in Parliament, and not to make any charge for the same against the Borough.

Court Book, 1562–1575. A paper book of 281 folios, in parchment binding.

Contains Views of Frankpledge and "Curia Dominæ Reginæ."

4 Eliz.—Michael Emp[r]yngham, Mayor. Richard Anderson and Robert Robertes, fined for an affray and drawing blood, on the Queen's highway.

John Cleatham and Richard Legerde fined for an affray and bloodshed.

Many similar entries about this time.

5 Eliz.—Peter Roes and Robert Hundilbie, clerk, fined for an affray and bloodshed.

5 Eliz.—Mem., that at this Courte John Clatham hayth bowght the townes house for the summe of iij^li to be paid to the Chamberlaines at the feaste of Philip and Jacobe th'appostilles next coomyng.

Robert Ascuge, son and heir of Beatrice, daughter and coheiress of Robert Caterall, claims lands by descent.

Thomas, servant of Thomas Curtes, gent., and Edmund Sperman, fined for an affray and bloodshed.

At this Cortte com Henrie Fotherbie and clamed the inerytans of iiij^or shopes late ys fatheres, John Fotherbie.

Robert Fotherbie comes and claims to be admitted to two shops in Grimsby under the will of Thomas Fotherbie.

William Thomson of Kelbye and Richard Curtes of Clee—affray and bloodshed.

Martin Fotherbie, Alderman, and William Casse—affray and bloodshed.

6 Eliz.—Thomas Madison and George Hustwate—affray and bloodshed.

Thomas Madyson, Mayor.

Approbrous (sic) spoken by George Hustwayt, one of the Baylyffes of Grett Grymsbie; viz., the 2 daye of Dec. A.D. 1564, he manyfestlye seyde, before Mr. Mayo^r and his bretherne, he prayed God that the puttyng in of M^r. Empyngham into the Hall, and the stoute doynges, were not a further troble unto the towne.

The day and yere above specyfied, M^r Rychard Thymbleby, in the Common Hall, seyd to M^r Mayo^r that (sic) these wordes as hereafter folowyth: "M^r Mayo^r, I thanck yo^u for my brothers cause; yo^u have called me a ruffyan, but yo^u ar wythin yo^r lybertie nowe, but other places will serve;" wyth such unsemelye wordes; presently came into the Hall, and spak manye unsemelye wordes unto the Mayor and his bretherne, and verye thretenlye; whose names ar M^r John Thymblebie and M^r Edward Skypwyth.

George Hustwayt, Baylyf of the broughe of Grett Grymsby, spak these wordes unto Thomas Lusom, clerck of the Cowrte, as hereafter folowyth, on twelthe Even last past: "It were a good dede and verye necessarie that the broughe of Grett Grymsby were ordred by the wyse Justices of the countrie, and the lybertie taken clene from us."

Item, at the next Courte in the Common Hall the seyd George Hustwayt spake these wordes to the Mayor: "Yo^u have placed and unyted M^r Seyntpole unto yo^u, as yt maye seme unto me and to others of the howse, to impovreshe yo^r power neyhbors." And byd M^r Mayo^r put it in for a pyke thanck.

Yt is payned by the Mayor and his bretherne that no man suffer his cattall to go abrode in the streates w^thout one folow them, apon peyn of everye beast iiij^d.

Geo. Hustwayt, when ordered by Mr. Mayor to go to the Bar to answer for his ill demeanour, "sayd to Mr. Mayo^r that he was not at his commawndment; 'I will aunswere it here; I will not stirre owtē of this place;' w^th many thretnyng wordes."

John Bolt keeps a dog for hunting hares, against the statute.

John Grey keeps arrows "in quodam bumberd vocat' a handgun," and a dog for hunting, against the statute.

7 Eliz.—Jur' presentant quod isti quorum nomina sequuntur ludebant ad illicita joca, id est, ad boylyng, contra statutum, &c. Dominus Rob. Hundylbie is one of the offenders.

Henry Fotherbe, Wm. Forsyth, Margaret Robertes, and others are presented for playing "ad illicita joca, id est, ad alias [aleas] et cartas pictas in domis suis, contra," &c.

Mem^dum that Sir Richard Thymbylbe, knyght, has bought and brought into this haven a cray lodden with fyer wood and tymber.

Roger, servant of Silvester Bellowe, and Douglas, a Scotsman—affray.

8 Eliz.—William Graye, of Newcastle on Tyne, and Humphrey More, maryner—affray and bloodshed.

9 Eliz.—Yt ys ordeyned that Mr. Rob^t Audesley, now newe elected to the offyce of the Mayoraltie, shall remove his dwelling from his late house at S^t James churche steele, unto his howse in Briggogate, or to some suche other house or dwellinge mete and convenyent for the Quenes levetenaunte of this burghe, before Martenmas next, and to contynue there during his tyme of mayoraltie; and to decentlie repayre his said house in Briggogate, and not to kepe or occupye any manner of victualing during his mayoraltie, under payne of xx^l.

13 Eliz.—No person to carry passengers from any part of the liberties of the borough to Hull, or any place beyond the Humber, on pain of 6l. 13s. 4d.; no person to bring passengers across the Humber to Grimsby without paying to the Chamber half the accustomed duty; and no person to take for carrying any free man more than 1^d there and 1^d back.

13 Eliz.—Assize of weights and measures. Curious sketches of trade marks in the margin.

Court Book, 21 Eliz.—42 Eliz. A paper book of 515 folios, without covers, but apparently complete, except the first 18 folios.

23 Eliz.—It is ordered and agreed that ther shall no occupier, artificer, or handycraftesman w^ch shall happen to come to this towne hereafter, beinge a forener, worke of his occupa&ctilde;on or sett uppe and kepe a shoppe w^thin this borrowe, or a man of any manner of trade whatsoever, before he be thereunto furst allowed by Mr. Maior and his bretheryn.

26 Eliz.—John Southe, gent., is appointed to prosecute as attorney for the town on a bond made to the Mayor and Burgesses by Robert Storye of Conysbie and Thomas Risfurthe of Lowthe in 40l., for not repairing S^t James's church, as in the condition to the bond.

27 Eliz.—Mem. that att this Courte it is agreed by the whole Courte (Xpofer Hatclyf excepte) that Mr. Marke Holte shall putt in his owne bonde for appeiraunce before Mr. Maior, when he shalbe called, and that at Everingham in Yorkshire at the parsonage will he bee.

Also that wheras Marke Holte was in suspicion for teringe the proclama&ctilde;on latelie sett out by her Hieghnes for the suppression of sedicious bookes, bvlles, or other thinges, in consideration wherof ther was open proclamation made that yf any coulde saye that he tare yt, or that he should reporte he wold tere it downe, but ther was not any coulde impeache hym.

39 Eliz.—Sir Geo. S^t Poll, knight, fined 40l. for not appearing to take upon him the office of Mayor when elected.

John Hatclyff, late Mayor, delivers into the hands of William Kelk, the newly elected Mayor, the keys, seal, and mace, two charters (one of the now Queen, the other of Northampton), one book of metes and bounds, the old and new ordinances, two separate extents, and a book containing two extents and other matters.

Court Book, 12 Chas. I.—1657. A paper book of 302 folios, rather dilapidated, but apparently complete.

12 Chas. I.—Gervase Holles, esq., Mayor. Every attorney of this Courte to have of his clientes of every of them xij^d for his reteinor, and six pence every Court day.

Every Alderman coming to the Church shall sitt in the seate for that purpose appointed, w^th Mr. Maior, in orderlie manner, in their gownes of a sadd colour, uppon Sundaies, festivall daies, and Wednesdayes, upon paine of every default, xij^d. Every twelveman the like, on pain of vj^d; and the Chamberlaines, vj^d.

12 Chas. I.—The Bailiffs are fined 20l. for disobeying the Mayor's order to carry one Christopher Harlinge to prison for opprobrious language, and carrying him to a tavern instead. Afterwards mitigated to 20^s, and paid.

Richard Fotherbie, Alderman, called to the Common Council in place of Mr. Skelton, who is departed from the town.

13 Chas. I.—Arthur Brooke is disfranchised for breach of his Burgess oath, according to a verdict, &c.

14 Chas. I.—The right Hon. Robert, Earle of Lyndsey, Lord High Chamberlain, &c. is chosen a free Burgess and made High Steward, Sir George Hennage having assigned over his place to him.

M^r Paule Willet [clerk], chosen free burgess.

M^r Francis Halton chosen Recorder.

15 Chas. I.—Richard Broxholme and Thomas Sea—affray and drawing blood.

Gervase Holles, esq., late Mayor, delivers to William Booth, now Mayor, the keys, seal, and mace, four statute books, the new extent, one old book of charters, four silver crests, and the old ordinance "et terrar le Sipptlehowse" [? Spittlehowse].

Gervase Holles, esq., acknowledges that he hath the exemplification of the Northampton Charter, and the Charters made in Queen Elizabeth's reign and in King James's reign.

Robert Earle of Lyndsey is admitted Recorder; M^r Francis Mussendyne, who was Recorder afore, being put out for his disregard and neglect of the Mayor and Burgesses.

16 Chas. I.—Eliz. Fotherby and Judith Sea—an affray and drawing blood.

16 Chas. I.—M^r Prockter upon his oath hath enformed M^r Maior that M^r Paul Willet, minister and twelveman, required him the said Samuel Prockter to present William Booth, Maior, and Gervase Holles, esq., for laughen in the Church, or else he would present him.

21 Chas. I. [1645], Oct. 21.—M^r William Wray is chosen Burgesse for the Parliament, in place of M^r Gervase Holles.

[1646], March 3.—At this Court Collonell Edward Rosseter is made a free Burgess, and is chosen for Parliament in place of Sir Christopher Wray, who is dead. (fn. 19) And he gives 10l. to the Town Chamber. He also signs and seals with his coat of arms a bond in this volume, indemnifying the town against any expense in the matter.

22 Chas. I. [1646], Aug. 4.—M^r Francis Halton, Recorder, is by ordinance of Parliament declared to be uncapable of bearinge any office in the Commonwealth, haveinge beene in actuall armes against the Parliament. He is accordingly discharged, and M^r Edward King chosen Recorder in his place.

23 Chas. I.—M^r Thomas Smyth chosen Schoolmaster for teaching the free Grammar School, at 20 marks per annum.

Sessions for servants.—Margaret Gardiner in service of Hammond Sutton, gent.; wages, xxx^s per annum, and unum lynn apron.

Peter Mason is amerced for buying corn and keeling it away.

Richard Broxholme is disfranchised for using abusive language to Thomas Beatniffe, the Mayor.

24 Chas. I.—William Eland, gent., and Willoughbie Guevara, gent., in right of his wife, claim a house in the occupation of the said Willoughbie; it is referred to the next Court Leet.

[1648,] Oct. 3.—Thomas Beatniffe, Mayor. At this Court M^r William Crew, Alderman, is sworne Maior for the yeare following, having received of M^r Beatniffe, late Maior, the mace, seale, and keys, three silver crests, the top of the olde mace, four statute bookes, [and] the copye of the old ordinance.

1650.—Easter, Alice, and Frances Hustwayte are entered coheires to Leonard Hustwayte, lawfullie begotten of Elene his wife.

Frances Smyth is entered tenant to a house lately purchased of John Cooke and others.

Att this Court Ed. Wells, sen., being form^rly found guiltie of steelinge 1 sheepe from one unknowne, is adjudged to be stript from the wayst upward and whippt in the Hall till blood come, on Thursday next.

1652 (at end of volume). — Bond by Matthias Yarburgh, Wm. Gardiner and John Braden, inhabitants of Grimsby, in 20l., to indemnify the town against the said M. Yarburgh on his wife or children becoming chargeable to the town.

1652.—Robert Cooke is to put the Chauntry howse in repair, on pain of forfeiting his lease.

1653, April 26.—M^r Edmund Smyth is admitted Schoolmaster for the free Schoole, during the tyme of his good behaviour; his brother resigning his place up.

Walter Lloyd is chosen the Parish Clarke, by consent of the Court.

1655.—It is ordered that whereas Christopher Claton, in the behalfe of his mother An Alford, wid., hath bought one wessell of Raffe of one Laurence Lamkey of Odwell in the kingdome of Norway, upon w^ch private bargane there appears a breach of the priviledges of this Corporation, and therupon a fine accrues to be dew: yet nottw^thstandinge, the said coostome beinge for a certain tyme by somme remissnesse lade asid, she hath libertie to injoye this hir said bargand, &c.

1656, July 24.—The "blew stone" is mentioned as a boundary in an ordinance. "The street leading to Wellowgate nigh the blewstone."

Many Alehouse licences occur in the Court Books about this time.

1657.—Richard Wilkinson fined 6^s 8^d for abusing of Mr. Maior's authoritye in releasing a man out of the stockes after Mr. Maior had committed him.

Wm. Halton, gent., found guilty of an assault and battery on Phillips Weslyd, gent.

Phillips Weslyd, gent., presented for threatening to ride over Thomas Newarke, and endeavouring soe to doc.

Court Book, 1738–1762. A large paper volume bound in leather entitled, "Great Grimsby—Mayor's Court Book."

1737.—A lease of the Chantry farm granted to Mr. Christopher Clayton for 11 years, under the same terms as Mr. Bransby lately held it.

Ann Davis pleads guilty to the felony whereof she stands indicted, and the judgement of the Court is that she be comitted to prison till six of the clock in the afternoon, and then to receive 28 lashes over her naked shoulders, viz., 7 lashes at Seamore Bridge, 7 more against Mr. Alderman Thompson's house (Mr. Thompson was on the Bench), 7 more at the Markett Cross, and the other 7 at the corner of the Town's Hall; and then be remitted to prison till her fees be paid.

1747, Sept. 15.—At this Court Ralph Tennyson, Alderman, is elected and chosen Mayor for the year ensuing. Wm. Hildyard was Town Clerk at this time.

David Clayton, son of George Clayton, late an Alderman, (being free born,) is admitted to the freedom, paying 10 groats a year for three years.

Christopher Clayton, son of Geo. Clayton, late Alderman, admitted. Sureties, Charles Pelham, esq., and David Clayton.

(The late Lord Tennyson was descended from these Tennysons, Claytons, and Hildyards.)

(Box V.)

This box contains Court Rolls, Court Books, and Views of Frankpledge from the time of Henry V. to that of Queen Anne. They are in disorder, and many of them are much decayed.

Also, a bundle of local deeds and leases, chiefly temp. Elizabeth, but some of the 15^th and 17^th centuries; Decrees of Sewers, made at Sessions of Sewers held by adjournment at Grimsby, 24 June 1697; Bailiffs' Account Rolls, 9 Edw. IV.; a bundle of receipts to the Bailiffs for the fee-farm rent paid to the Hon. Bapt. May, 1676–1697, Charles May, Esq., 1706–1714, and Mrs. Jane May, 1734; similar receipts temp. Commonwealth; a bundle of Bailiffs' Quietus Rolls, temp. Ric. II., Hen. VIII., Philip and Mary, Eliz., James I., and Chas. II.; a book of accounts temp. Eliz.; and a Roll of Oaths against Papal Supremacy and Transubstantiation, 1775–1783.

(Box VI.)

This box contains Court Books and fragments of Court Books (chiefly Curia Forinseca) for 9, 10, 15, 24, and 36 Hen. VIII., 5 & 6 Ph. and Mary, 12 Chas. I., 1689–1692, and 1724–5; Files of Proceedings in the Mayor's Court, and Admissions of Freemen, 1721–1733; Bailiffs' Quietus Roll, temp. Edw. VI.; and Rolls and Bundles of Admissions of Freemen (giving nothing but the name and date) of the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

The following extract is from a fragment of a Court Book, dated 12 Chas. I. [1636], Oct. 5:—"Upon conference betwixt Mr. Maior and his Councell for the raisinge of a stocke for settinge the poore of Grimsby on worke, beinge many in number and increasinge much uppon us, it was agreed that the East Marshes should be lett, &c.; and that the parish should have a particular warninge to be att the Churche uppon Sunday last att eveninge prayer, where the said Mr. Maior did then propound the former intencion before them all," &c. Signed by Gervase Holles, Mayor, and many Burgesses.

(Box VII.)

Court Book (part of), 1660–1, containing only folios 34 to 63.

1660, Oct. 17.—Appointment of a committee for the restoration of Grimsby Haven; signed by Edward Cooke, Mayor, and 75 others.

1661.—Mr. Thomas Beatniffe is chosen "Scholmaster of the Freeschole, soe long as he doeth welbehave himselfe." Colonel King, the Recorder, gave 10l. towards the repair of the Vicarage house.

Court Book (part of), containing folios 18 to 287.

1659.—Receipt by Mrs. Alice Morley, for her late husband, for 4l., the cost of amending the Mace carried before Mr. Mayor, called the Mayor's Mace.

18 Chas. II., Nov. 6.—Bond by Sir Henry Bellasys of Worlaby, K.B., on election as Burgess to Parliament. (Seal of arms.) Also Poll between him and Edward King, esq. (fo. 150.)

24 Chas. II.—Richard Bower admitted a free Burgess, having married a freeman's widow; to pay three nobles.

Charles Pelham, esq., admitted a free burgess on payment of 10 marks; and Henry Fanshawe, esq., on payment of 10l.

24 Chas. II.—Theodore Walpole to officiate as Town Clerk till another is provided. (fo. 219.)

25 Chas. II.—Poll for Charles Pelham, esq., and William Broxholme, esq., as Burgesses for Parliament. And bond of Broxholme as to expenses. (fo. 230.)

Court Book (part of), 30–32 Chas. II.

31 Chas. II. [1678], Feb. 17.—Poll for William Broxh olme of Barrow, esq., and George Pelham of Gray's Inn, esq., as Burgesses for Parliament. And their bonds against expenses; with seals of arms.

George Pelham pays 10l. to be admitted to the freedom.

Same year, Aug. 26.—Poll for the same candidates. And bonds of Broxholme and Charles Pelham of Brocklesby, esq., thereon.

Court Book (part of), 32 Chas. II., containing folios 336 to 446.

1688, Jan. 11.—Poll for Sir Edward Ayscoghe of South Kelsey and Sir Thomas Barnardiston of Ketton, co. Suffolk, as Burgesses for Parliament. And their bonds for expenses.

33 Chas. II.—William Broxholme of Barrow, esq., is elected Recorder, in place of Edward Kinge, esq., deceased, and signs the declaration against the Solemn League and Covenant.

Bonds by William Broxholme of Barrow, esq., and Charles Pelham, esq., on their election as Burgesses for Parliament. (fo. 338.)

33 Chas. II.—Francis Beatniffe admitted to a messuage, as heir to Mr. Thomas Beatniffe, deceased. (fo. 343.)

33 Chas. II., Sept. 26.—Mr. Alexander Wright elected Schoolmaster during the good pleasure of the whole town. (fo. 347.)

Court Book, 1689–1720. A large book of about 1,070 folios, but extremely decayed, and a great part of the leaves loose.

1688, Dec. 11.—An order dated 28th Oct. last, signed by Sir Edward Ayscogh, knt., Vincent Grantham and Edward King, esquires, for the towne of Grimsby, for setting out three foot soldiers.

1688.—Resolution to plead to a Bill of Quo Warranto lately exhibited by the King against the Corporation. Various charters, &c., are taken out of the Chamber, and sent to London, for the purposes of the defence.

1689–90, March 3.—Poll of the Burgesses for Sir Thomas Barnardiston, Sir Edward Ayscoghe, and John Chaplin, esq., on the election of two Burgesses for Parliament.

1690.—Old Charters, which had been sent to London, are now restored to the Chamber.

1691.—Nathaniel Gannock, citizen and fishmonger of London, purchased of his brother John Gannock of Boston, gent., all his messuages in Grimsby, bequeathed to him by the will of Ralph West, late of Irby, gent.

1691.—Geo. Clayton, late Mayor, fined, 5l. to the Chamber, and 20s. to the poor, for omitting to make the Election Feast and Michaelmas Feast.

1692, Oct. 4.—Bridgett, wife of Henry Deane, found guilty of stealing a peticoat, and sentenced to be whipped at the whipping post, stripped to the waist, till her body be bloody.

1710. Poll for Arthur Moore, esq., William Coatesworth, esq., and Robert Viner, esq., as Burgesses for Parliament.

1713.—Poll for Arthur Moore, esq., Sir James Parke, knight, Wm. Cotesworth, esq., and Matthew Boucherett, esq.

This volume consists chiefly of mere names. There are a few admissions of Freemen.

Court Book, 1720–1738.

1720.—Poll for election of a Burgess to Parliament; Arthur Moore, esq., and Robert Viner, esq. The former elected, in place of Sir Robert Chaplin, expelled the House of Commons.

1720, June 14.—Geo. Clayton elected Town Clerk in the place of Mr. Charles Bransby, deceased.

1721.—Mandamus to admit William Stampe to the Freedom. Resolved to show cause, and meanwhile not to admit the said Stampe.

1721.—Resolved to solicit a general Inspeximus and Confirmation of the Corporation charters, and an alteration of the Market day from Wednesday to Friday.

1729, Feb. 3.—An instance of disfranchisement for felony.

Court Book (Curia Forinseca), 1694–1727. Imperfect; first 52 pages wanting. Scarcely anything except names of jurors and parties to suits.

Court Book (Curia Forinseca), 1727–1733; containing similar entries.

A bundle of fragments of Court Books and Views of Frankpledge, from temp. Ric. III. to William and Mary.

Fines or Final Concords.

(Box VIII.)

These are Fines acknowledged before the Mayor, Coroners, &c. for the time being, on conveyances of lands or tenements within the Borough. They are about 300 in number, and range in date from temp. Edw. III. to Charles I., with a few later.

Sacrament Certificates.

(Box IX.)

These certificates are not arranged, but appear to be all of the 18th century. This same box contains also Sessions Rolls and Papers for 1741, 1775, and 1809; and a Roll of Subscriptions by the Justices in Quarter Sessions to the Oaths against Papal Supremacy and Transubstantiation, 1761–1774.

Chamberlains' Accounts, &c.

(Box X.)

This box contains bundles of Chamberlains' Accounts and Vouchers between 1828 and 1836. Also, Oaths against Papal Supremacy, &c., and other Sessions Papers between 1690 and 1781; Verdicts of Court Leet, 17th and 18th centuries; and Freemen's Admissions, 1824–1832.

(Box XI.)

A very dilapidated bundle of Chamberlains' Accounts, temp. Ric. II., and other bundles for temp. Henry VIII., Commonwealth, and Charles II.; a few Election Indentures of the 17th and 18th centuries; Sessions Papers and Admissions, 1737; 18th century Corporation Rentals; and modern letters and vouchers.

(Boxes XII. and XIII.)

Contain only printed Statutes at large.

(Box XIV.)

Counterparts of Leases of Corporation property between 1662 and 1825, and one of 1641.

Mayors of Grimsby.

The following list was compiled from the Corporation Records by Colonel Gervase Holles, who was Mayor of Grimsby in 1636, 1638, and 1663, and it is taken from his unpublished Collections amongst the Lansdowne MSS.:—

1202. B., Mayor of Grimsby.

1203. Baldwin.

1205. Edmund del Kal.

1206. William Clerk.

1207. John le Art.

1209. Adam Welby.

1210. William Russel.

1219. Baldwin.

1261. Philip de Wivelsby.

1287. William Fraunke.

1289. " "

1293. Richard Brisbancke.

1304. Hugh le Salter.

1307. Robert de Wath.

1309. William de Groule.

1311. Robert de Norton.

1312. David Taverner.

1313. Gilbert Rayner.

1315. Henry de Riby.

1316. William Russel.

1317. William Tinctor.

1318. Hugh de Killingholme.

1319. John de Rasen.

1322. William Basill.

1325. Henry de Riby.

1336. Simon de Funtenay.

1338. Thomas Skirbecke.

1341. Augustine Attwoode.

1342. John de Riby.

1344. Simon de Funtenay.

1346. Peter Atte See.

1347. " "

1348. Simon de Funtenay.

1352. Peter de Halsham.

1353. William Nevile.

1354. Thomas de Cave.

1356. William Herwike.

1357. John Ingson.

1360. Peter de Halsham.

1361. William Herwike.

1362. Ralph de Utterby.

1363. William de Bolington.

1364. Peter de Alsham.

1365. William de Bolington.

1366. Ralph de Utterby.

1368. Richard Atte See.

1369. John Rayner.

1372. Richard de Wetewang.

1374. Ralph de Utterby.

1377. William de Elmeshale.

1378. John de Cotes.

1379. Geoffrey Pedde.

1382. John de Newland.

1383. Geoffrey de Aschby.

1386. John de Heling.

1388. Walter de Slutheby.

1390. William de Elmeshale.

1391. William de Wele.

1392. Robert de Burton.

1393. William de Wele.

1394. William Duffeld.

1395. Richard de Misen.

1396. Simon White.

1397. John Pogge.

1400. William Duffeld.

1402. Simon de Grimsby.

1403. Simon White.

1404. William Duffeld.

1405. Robert Bolington.

1406. Robert Py.

1407. Robert Bolington.

1409. William Duffeld.

1410. William Fosse.

1411. J. de Stalingburgh.

1412. John Litster.

1413. Richard Barbor.

1414. William Fosse.

1415. Roger Granesby.

1416. Robert Py.

1417. Gilbert A Prestey.

1418. Roger Granesby.

1419. Robert Py.

1420. William Fosse.

1421. William Briggesley.

1422. Robert Py.

1423. William Barrow.

1424. Walter Manby.

1425. Roger Granesby.

1426. William Barrow.

1429. Simon Elkington.

1430. John Hyll.

1432. William Barrow.

1433. Roger Granesby.

1434. John Empringham.

1436. John Carbote.

1438. John Edon.

1439. Richard Fulnetby.

1440. Simon Elkington.

1441. Robert Sherriffe.

1442. Henry Bele.

1443. John Empringham.

1444. John Dene.

1446. William East.

1448. Roger Barbour.

1449. Henry Tomlinson.

1450. Richard Manfeld.

1451. John Empringham.

1452. John Dene.

" Henry Bele.

1453. John Atte Hall.

1454. Hugh Edon.

1456. Richard Manfeld.

1457. John Newport, Esq.

1459. Richard Alesby.

1460. John Sherriffe.

1461. John Newport, Esq.

1462. Hugh Edon.

1463. John Cooke.

1464. John Atte Hall.

1465. John Newport, Esq.

1468. Thomas Broughton.

1469. John Newport, Esq.

1471. Hugh Edon.

1472. John Sheriffe.

1473. Robert Harmer.

1474. John Newport, Esq.

1475. Stephen del See.

1476. John Newport, Esq.

1477. Thomas Broughton.

1478. Robert Constable.

1480. William Glasiner.

1481. Peter de la See.

1482. William Glasiner.

1483. " "

1484. Stephen de la See.

1485. Thomas Portmort.

1487. William Glasiner.

1488. Thomas Bell.

1489. William Glasiner.

1490. William Vicars.

1491. " "

1492. Thomas Alseby.

1493. Thomas Bell.

1494. James Beverley.

1495. John Empringham.

1496. Thomas Bell.

1497. Thomas Alseby.

1498. James Beverley.

1499. William Vicars.

1500. Henry Beningworth.

1501. Robert Lacy.

1502. William Vicars.

1503. " "

1504. Alexander del See.

1505. Bernard del See.

1506. " "

1507. John Empringham.

1508. " "

1509. " "

1510. Bernard del See.

1511. Christopher Ayscogh, Esq.

1512. Peter Mason.

1513. William Buteler.

1514. Philip Hamby.

1515. Thomas Barnardiston, Esq.

1516. Peter Mason.

1517. " "

1518. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1519. John Fotherby.

1520. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1521. William Hatcliffe.

1522. Philip Hamby.

1523. Bryan Curteys.

1524. " "

1525. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1526. John Fotherby.

1527. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1528. Bryan Curteys.

1529. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1530. Peter Mason.

1531. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1532. Michael Mason.

1533. Robert Cooke.

1534. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1535. Michael Mason.

1536. Richard Empringham.

1537. Richard Thymolby, Esq.

1538. Leonard Curteis.

1539. Michael Mason.

1540. Patrick Hansley.

1541. John Barnardiston.

1543. Robert Cooke.

1544. John Kingston.

1545. Richard Empringham.

1546. John Bellow, Esq.

1547. Richard Empringham.

1548. Richard Thymolby.

1549. John Bellow, Esq.

1550. William Simson.

1551. Robert Cooke.

1552. John Bellow, Esq.

1553. John Kingston.

1554. Richard Empringham.

1555. John Bellow, Esq.

1556. Richard Cooke (son).

1557. Robert Cooke (father).

1558. Richard Empringham.

" Robert Wright.

1559. William Royse.

1560. Robert Windyll.

1561. Martin Fotherby.

1562. Michael Empringham.

1563. Robert Cooke.

1564. Thomas Maddison.

1566. Michael Empringham.

1567. Robert Annesley.

1569. Richard Hansard.

1571. Robert Wright.

1572. William Scales.

1573. Richard Hansard.

1574. Robert Holdesworth.

1575. William Rose.

1576. Thomas Morison.

" William Scales.

1577. Michael Empringham.

1578. Christopher Portmort.

1579. William Scales.

1580. Robert Annesley.

1581. John Jackson.

1582. Christopher Hatcliffe.

1583. Robert Empringham.

1584. John Hatcliffe.

1585. George Portmort.

1586. John Jackson.

1587. Christopher Harrington.

1588. William Wray, Esq.

1589. John Hatcliffe.

1590. Richard Thymolby.

1591. William Kelke.

1592. John Kingston, Esq., son of John.

1593. Godfrey Lawghton.

1594. Richard Waterhouse.

1595. Anthony Wilson.

1596. John Hatcliffe.

1597. William Kelke.

1598. Solomon Sutcliffe.

1599. " "

1600. Richard Colton.

1601. Edward Jackson.

1602. Anthony Wilson.

1603. Solomon Sutcliffe.

1604. Hamon Greathead and William Gower.

1605. John Kingston, Esq.

1606. Bernard Colton.

1607. Edward Jackson.

1608. Solomon Sutcliffe.

" W. Gower.

1609. William Kelke.

1610. Robert Empringham, Gent.

1611. William Gower.

1612. Anthony Wilson.

1613. Michael Spenser.

1614. Edward Jackson.

1615. William Tod.

1616. Michael Spencer.

1617. William Gower.

1618. Daniel Somerscales.

1619. Paul Cooke.

1620. Leo (or Lyon) Kirke.

1621. Edward Heaton.

1622. William Tod.

" M. Cooke.

1623. Moses Cooke.

1624. William Gower.

1625. Thomas Lamson.

1626. Thomas Sea.

1627. Freschville Holles, Esq.

1628. Moses Cooke.

1629. Paul Cooke.

" Edward Heaton.

1630. William Gower, son of William.

1631. Robert East.

1632. Arthur Brooke.

1633. Edward Popple.

1634. Richard Brather.

1635. Richard Fotherby.

1636. Gervase Holles, Esq.

1637. Moses Cooke.

1638. Gervase Holles.

1639. William Booth.

1640. T. West.

" Zacharias Alford.

1641. " "

1642. Samuel Procter.

1643. Edward Heaton.

1644. T. Tod, son of William.

1645. Thomas More.

1646. W. Beardshaw.

1647. Thomas Beatniffe.

1648. William Crew.

1649. Thomas Morley.

1650. Thomas Tod.

1651. Thomas Newton.

1652. Richard Tod.

1653. Edward Thomas.

1654. Charles Weselhead.

1655. William Booth.

1656. Samuel Procter.

1657. T. Tod.

" William Beardshaw.

1658. " "

1659. William Draper.

1660. Edward Cooke.

1661. William Popple, son of Edward.

1662. Christopher Clayton.

1663. Gervase Holles.

1664. T. Heaton, son of Edward.

1666. Christopher Clayton.

1667. A. Booth, son of William.

1668. William Popple.

1669. Sir F. Holles, Knight.

Alfred Gibbons.