La Manche: Part 1

Calendar of Documents Preserved in France 918-1206. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1899.

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'La Manche: Part 1', in Calendar of Documents Preserved in France 918-1206, ed. J Horace Round( London, 1899), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/france/918-1206/pp249-280 [accessed 28 November 2024].

'La Manche: Part 1', in Calendar of Documents Preserved in France 918-1206. Edited by J Horace Round( London, 1899), British History Online, accessed November 28, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/france/918-1206/pp249-280.

"La Manche: Part 1". Calendar of Documents Preserved in France 918-1206. Ed. J Horace Round(London, 1899), , British History Online. Web. 28 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/france/918-1206/pp249-280.

Part 1

ABBEY OF MONT ST. MICHEL, FOR BENEDICTINE MONKS, IN THE DIOCESE OF AVRANCHES.
[Original Charters in Archives of La Manche, (fn. 1) and in private hands; Cartulary in Public Library of Avranches, No. 210. (fn. 2) ]
[1024–6.]
(Cartulary, fo. 21. (fn. 3)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 215.)
701. Charter of Richard [II.] duke and prince of the Normans. Seeking to escape the pains of hell and obtain the joys of paradise, after the death of his body, he delivers to Mont St. Michel, and the brethren there serving God as monks a certain vill of his own alod (alodii) in the Bessin, Versum by name, with all its lands cultivated or not, and all the mills, with meadows and woods. This he does for the redemption of his soul and those of his father and mother, his wife and his sons. Curses on those who violate this testimony of his gift (hujus donationis testamentum).
[Signa] Richardi magni comitis; Richardi filii ejus; Rotberti filii ejus; Willelmi; Gonnor matris comitis; Papie uxoris comitis; Rotberti archiepiscopi; Hugonis Baiocensis episcopi. Hugonis Ebroicensis episcopi; Maugisi Abrincatensis episcopi.
[? 1026.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 4)
Cartulary, fo. 20.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 209.)
702. Charter of Richard [II.] duke and prince of the Normans Seeking to escape the pains of hell, and obtain the joys of paradise, after the death of his body, he delivers to Mont St. Michel, and the brethren there serving God as monks, the abbey of St. Pair (Sanctus Paternus) in the Côtentin etc. etc. (lands in Normandy specified) and the land of Peter the monk in the island of Gersoi,… also a certain vill in the Bessin, Versum by name… Moreover he confirms his mother's gift of Britavilla, of which she made offering to Mont St. Michel for her weal and that of his father and of himself and his brothers, and which was of her dower… (privileges of the abbey defined). All this he delivers to God and St Michael for the redemption of his soul, for the weal of [those of] his father, mother, and wife, his son Richard and his other sons, by whose consent etc. [as in Gonnor's charter].
[Signa] Richardi comitis; Richardi filii ejus; Rotberti filii ejus. Ego Maugisus sancte Abrincatensis ecclesie episcopus hane donationis cartulam manu propria voluntarie confirmo. T[estes] Rotbertus archiepiscopus; Hugo episcopus Ebroicensis; Herbertus episcopus Luxoviensis; Niellus vicecomes; Tursten vicecomes; Alveredus vicecomes; Walterius vicecomes; Richardus vicecomes; Guimundus vicecomes; Hubertus; Osbernus[?] frater comitisse; Hunfredus frater ejus; Roscelinus; Normannus Silveron (fn. 5); Bernardus filius ejus; Osbernus filius Arfast; Ranulfus frater ejus; Hugo clericus, et multi alii.
[N.D.]
(Cartulary, (fn. 6) fo. 24.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 215.)
703. Charter of Gonnor [relict of Duke Richard]. In fear for the greatness of her crimes, and desiring the joy of life in heaven, she delivers to Mont St. Michel and the brethren there serving God, as their possession for ever, two alods (aloda), namely Britavilla and Domjean (donnum (fn. 7) Johannem) which her husband court Richard, of blessed memory, had given her, with more [estates], in dower; [and this she does] chiefly for the good of his soul, and then for the weal of her own soul and body, and then for the weal of her sons count Richard, archbishop Robert, and others, who give their consent… These alods she bestows on the abbey, [calling] Christ and the whole church to witness, with [their] lands, cultivated or not, churches, mills, meadows, and all appurtenances, and with all the rents and dues which she has possessed there to that day, to hold free of claim or question from any of her successors, relatives or any one else. Curses on those who infringe the gift.
[Signa] Rotberti archiepiscopi; Maalgerii; Rotberti (fn. 8); Hugonis Constanciensis episcopi; Hugonis Baiocensis episcopi; Hugonis Sais episcopi; Rogeri episcopi; Norgoti episcopi; Heldeberti abbatis; Willelmi abbatis; Uspac abbatis; Willelmi; Laici (fn. 9); [Signa] Rotberti comitis; Godefridi; Willelmi; Radulfi; Tursteni; Tescelini vicecomitis; Herluini; Anschetil vicecomitis; Willelmi filii Tursteni; Hugonis Laici; Gerardi; Osmundi clerici; Gaufridi; Arfast; Nielli (fn. 10); Guimundi; Anschitilli; Milonis; Rainaldi; Odonis; Rannulfi.
[1028–1034.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 229.)
704. Charter of count Rotbert, son of Richard the Great duke and prince of the Normans, restoring to St. Michael his altar, with the whole monastery, for the monks to enjoy all the offerings made there by God's faithful people, for the profit of the place, that it may never more be in the custody of [any] clerks or laymen, but of the abbot of monks. And this he does for the good of the souls of his relatives, of his father and mother, his brothers and sisters, and his own. Curses on violators of the charter. He, by the grace of God, duke of the Normans, confirms the gift, making, with his own hand, the sign of the cross, and causes it to be confirmed by the witness of these his lieges:—
Hugo Baiocensis episcopus; Herbertus Lesvicacensis episcopus; Hugo Abrincatensis episcopus; Johannes Fiscanensis abba (sic); Gislebertus filius Godefridi comitis; Anschitillus Baiocensis vicecomes; Hugo vicecomes filius Turstingi; Ricardus de Crolei; Rodulfus Taisson et frater ejus Ernis; Osbertus filius Erfasti; Nigellus vicecomes; Fulco filius Gerardi; Rabel; Willelmus filius Turstingi, et alii quam plures. Suppo monachus, Jozelinus monachus. (fn. 11)
[1028–1034.]
(Original in archives.
Cartulary, fo. 26.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 225.)
705. Charter of Robert, duke and prince of the Normans, son of Richard the great, confirming to the abbey of Mont St. Michel, the gifts of his predecessors, and granting them, of his own substance, the following: half the island of Greveroy absolutely, and from the other half, held in beneficio by Nigel, all the dues reserved to his own use, namely melagium and all others; also, in the Avranchin, St. Jean on the sea with all its appurtenances [specified]; and there also, all his rights in the town of Bevron, with eight mills etc., etc.; further, in the Bessin, five mills and a church in Versun on the Oldun. These gifts they are to hold for ever as belonging to his demesne (fiscum dominicum).
[Signa] Rotberti archiepiscopi; Herberti episcopi; Hugonis episcopi; Hugonis Ebrocacensis episcopi; Ego Rotbertus princeps Norhmannorum gracia Dei dux, hane donationem manu propria corroboravi, et meis fidelibus corroborandam tradidi; [Signa] Rogerii filius (sic) Hugonis; Rotberti pincerna (sic); Nigelli vicecomitis; Nigelli filii ejus; Goifredi Farself vicecomitis; Aymonis vicecomitis; Hugonis vicecomitis; Rogeri filii Rodulfi; Turstingi vicecomitis; [Gozilini vicecomitis; Rodulfi vicecomitis; Turoldi constabili (fn. 12) ]. (fn. 11)
[Circ. 1042.]
(On same charter as preceding.
Cartulary, 29d.)
706. Charter of William count of the Normans, son of count Robert. He grants to St. Michael and his servants his islands of Serch and Aurrene (fn. 13) [in exchange] for the other half of Grenere, (fn. 14) which his father count Robert had given them for his soul, and which he [William] has restored to Ranulf son of Anschitil.
Testes donationis: Willelmi filii Rotberti comitis; Hugo episcopus Abricensis; Willelmus filius Villelmi; Niellus juvenis; Haduiardus (fn. 15) Rex; Hunfredus Namo; Willelmus filius Rainoldi; Rogerius filius Hunfredi; Loffredus vicecomes; Hugo filius Huberti; Hunfredus parvus.
[N.D.]
(Cartulary, fo. 55d.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 230.)
707. Charter of Restald formerly ship-master of Rotbert count of Normandy, on receiving at length the long-desired garb of a monk. The said most pious prince Rotbert, approving what he has done, has given him a small island, called Keitehulm (fn. 16) as a possession for ever. This, with all he has acquired or possesses, he gives, after his death, to St. Michael and the brethren serving him, to be their inheritance, on condition that he is made a partaker in all their almsgiving and good deeds, and is enrolled as their brother and fellow for ever.
[N. D.]
(Cartulary, fo. 32d.)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 231.
708. Charter of Edward [the Confessor] king of the English, granting to the abbey St. Michael's Mount, Cornwall, etc. Printed in Monasticon Ang. VI. 989; Codex Dip. IV. 251 (but with witnesses in different order).
[Signa] Regis Edwardi (fn. 17); Rotberti comitis; Rabel; Rotberti Rothomagensis; Herberti Luxoviensis episcopi; Rotberti episcopi Constanciensis; Unfredi; Nigelli vicecomitis; Anschitilli; Radulfi; Choschet; Turstini.
[Circ. 1050.]
(Cartulary, fo. 30.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 231.)
709. Charter of William, duke and prince of the Normans, permitting the gift of La Croix (vicus Crucis) with its appurtenances [specified] to Mont St. Micheal by Adelelm a knight, who had received it in fee (beneficium) from duke Robert.
Nomina testium: Ego Willelmus Dei gracia Normannorum dux et princeps hanc donationis cartulam propria manu corroboravi et meis episcopis as primatibus corroborandam tradidi. [Signa] Adelelmi militis hujus donationis largitor et auctor; Beatricis uxoris ejus; Rotberti filii ejus. Ego Hugo Abrincacensis episcopus manu propria firmo. [Signa] Malgeri archiepiscopi; Hugonis Ebrocacensis episcopi; Hugonis Luxoviensis episcopi; Nielli vicecomitis; Willelmi filii Willelmi comitis; Roberti pincerne; Ricardi vicecomitis; Willelmi fratris ejus; Hamonis vicecomitis; Radulfi [Taisson]; fratris ejus Hernisi (fn. 18); Gaufridi vicecomitis; [Gisleberti Crispini; fratris ejus Willelmi; Hugonis vicecomitis (fn. 19);] Turstingi filii Rainaldi; Guilelmi fratris ejus; Turstinci vicecomitis; Hugonis filii Huberti; Hugonis Paisfolet; Turstini Gazel; Guidonis filii Rainaldi comitis; Richardi filii Turstinci; Rotberti fratris ejus; Ranulfi filii Ascelini.
[1054.
Christmas.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 20)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 234.)
710. Charter of William Pichenoht notifying that, on becoming a monk in the abbey of Mont St. Michel, he gives it Perella and all its appurtenances, the gift being allowed by William count of Normandy, son of count Robert, and confirmed by him on Christmas day before the altar of Rouen Cathedral, in the sight and hearing of Malager archbishop of Rouen, Hugh bishop of Avranches, Roger de Bellomonte, Rogero de Montgulmerio, Richard the ricomte, and, of St. Michael's men, Hilger de Ardevone, Thescelin his brother, Reginald de Grandivalle, and Ralf de Sancto Johanne. Count William has made the above bishops, before the altar, excommunicate all who should infringe this gift.
Anno ab incarnatione domini MoLoIIIIo indictione septima facta est hec donatio. [Signa] Willelmi comitis (fn. 21); Maalgerii archiepiscopi; Hugonis episcopi Abrincatensis; Rogerii de Bellomonte; Rogerii de Montgulmerio (fn. 22); Ricardi vicecomitis; Hilgerii de Ardevone; Thescelini fratris ejus; Raginaldi (fn. 23) de Grandivilla (fn. 24); Radulfi de Sancto Johanne.
[1061.]
(Original [?] in archives (fn. 25)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 236.)
711. Charter of William, by the grace of God duke of all Normandy. At the earnest request of Ranulf abbot of St. Michael's monastery, he grants that house (locus) the mill of Veim, which his father Robert had given it, but which abbot Suppo had wrongfully sold to Ralf the moneyer, the monks opposing it. On Ranulf succeeding as abbot, it was ascertained and decided in his [the duke's] court that the mill ought to belong to the monks of St. Michael. He grants, therefore, that this mill, which is called the count's mill, shall belong to St. Michael for ever, for the sustenance of his monks. He appends with his own hand, to secure this gift, the sign of the cross.
[Signa] Gloriosissimi (fn. 26) ducis Guillelmi (fn. 27); Mathildis comitisse; Maurilii archiepiscopi Rothomagensis; Johannis presulis Abrincensis; Hugonis presulis Luxoviensis; Rotberti Bertranni; Stigandi dapiferi; Radulfi cubicularii; Richardi vicecomitis. Hec carta facta est apud Rothomagum anno dominice incarnationis Millesimo sexagesimo primo, indictione XIII.
[N. D.]
(Roll in archives. (fn. 28)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 237.)
712. Memorandum concerning the mill which came into possession of St. Michael's monks, and which John son of Richard endeavoured to claim, that claim being disposed of by judgement of the nobles of the land. Duke Robert, who had held it in demesne, gave it, with many other gifts, to the abbey. On his death, returning from Jerusalem, abbot Suppo gave the mill to Ranulf the moneyer, the monks unanimously opposing the gift. But afterwards, in the time of abbot Ranulf, the mill came to Gualeran son of [the above] Ranulf, other heirs failing, and was bought from him at a high price, before many witnesses, duke William confirming [the purchase] in the presence of his lieges as recited (in No. 711 supra).
[1076.] Some fifteen years, more or less, later, when king William had ascended the throne of England, the said John suddenly claimed the mill and seized it without making any proof of his right, abbot Ranulf vigorously resisting, and informing the king of the wrong done to St. Michael and himself. At length both parties were summoned before the king's court, in which sat many of the nobles of the land, of whom Geoffrey bishop of Coutances was delegated by the king's authority as judge of the dispute, with Ranulf the vicomte, Niel son of Niel, Robert de Vezpunt, and many other capable (ample opinionis) judges, who diligently and fully examined the origin of the dispute, and delivered judgement that the mill ought to belong to St. Michael and his monks for ever. The most victorious king William approved and confirmed this decision (diffinitionem), commanded that it should be set forth in writing, and gave it validity for ever by these words, affixing his sign: “I, William, by the grace of God, king of the English and “prince of the Normans, confirm by this sign of the holy cross, “the decree of my above-named nobles that the count's mill, “which abbot Ranulf redeemed, with my approval, from “Gualeran, should belong for ever to St. Michael for the “sustenance of his monks. And none of my successors nor any “abbot nor monk of the Mount shall have power to alter this “which has been settled by me and mine.”
[Signa] victoriossimi regis Guillelmi; nobilissime Mathildis regine.
1066 [?]. (fn. 29)
(Cartulary, fo. 82.)
713. Charter of Gerbert de Poterel, notifying that, brought down by poverty, he has by the inspiration of God requested abbot Ranulf to receive Drogo, a son of his, as a monk, with half his land of Poterel, which he held of the abbot in free service (liberali servitio) to which the abbot has assented. The abbot afterwards bought the other half from a certain Roger for two pounds in money of Le Mans, in the sight and hearing of many etc.… The abbot, treating the land as demesne, made of it a farm (medietariam) for the use of the abbey. One day, long afterwards, the above Roger came across the swine of St. Michael and wickedly killed the swineherd (subulcum) at the instigation of the devil. Abbot Ranulf instantly appealed to the count of Normandy, who straightway banished Roger from Normandy. Roger, after some time unable to bear exile, repeatedly begged and implored the abbot to make his peace with the duke and allow him to be reconciled, on condidtion of his abjuring (forsjuraret) the land of Poterel, for himself and his heirs for ever, before the duke and his nobles (proceribus). The abbot long refused to listen, but urged at length by the counsel of the monks and of the barons of the abbey (ecclesie), he met him in the presence of duke William on a fixed and appointed day. The agreement was there recorded (recordato) and mutually granted and confirmed before the duke, etc.
[Signa] Guillelmi gloriosissimi principis Normanni; Rotberti filii ejus; Guillelmi filii ejus; Mathildis uxoris ejus; Rotberti Sagiensis episcopi; Johannis Abrincensis episcopi; Rogerii de Monte Gomeri; Rogerii de Bello Monte; Richardi proconsulis; Turgisi de Tracei; Gaufredi de Sai; Radulfo de Sancto Johanne; Hamonis de Bacilleio; Hugonis prepositi de Genecio; Morini pistoris: Ilgerii prepositi de Ardevone. Acta sunt hec apud Bonamvillam eo anno quo gloriosus Guillelmus princeps Normannie mare transmeavit Angliamque sibi, Deo comitante, subjugavit anno ab incarnatione Domini MoLXVI. Epacta xxij. Concurrente vj.
[1070–1081.]
(Cartulary, fo. 95.)
714. Recital (Hæc [sic] carta narrat) of the agreement made at Bayeux, before the queen, between the abbot of Mont St. Michel and William Paynel (Paganellum). If William has to fight (habet guerram) for that land which the king of the English gave him (sibi) with his wife, the agreement is that Hugh de Bricavilla shall do him, for forty days, [service] of ward or custody (de guarda vel custodia) with six other horsemen at his own cost (sese septimum de caballaribus ad suum cibum). And Hugh's nephew (nepos) shall do likewise if he shall hold that land “in parage,” according to what he holds. Again, if William shall summon that Hugh, he shall have him, with two Knights, in his company (familia), at his own cost, or his son, if he shall be free from the abbot's summons. Nor shall the abbot always prevent William from having this. (fn. 30) And he shall so (ita) have in his company Hugh's nephew and Robert de Cantelupe and William Becheth and the man (illum) who shall hold the honour of Scollant. And if he [William] shall hold a plea (vindictam seu placitum) he shall have for constituting his court (ad faciendum) the men he holds of St. Michael, so that they be at their own homes (domos) by evening. And if they are in default to him for the services here defined (divisa) they shall make him amends (rectum sibi facient) at a manor (mansionum) he holds of St. Michael. From the land he holds of St. Michael he shall receive aid for the [redemption from] capture of his body, or for [the redemption] of his land, if he forfeit it to the king or the abbot, or for [his] son by this (hujus) woman, should he be captured in the service of the king or of the abbot, of whom is [held] the fief (fedus), or for the marriage of one daughter only by this (hac) woman. It is agreed that William Paginellus shall, in the land he holds of the abbot appoint one man to whom the abbot shall send for the summonses which he has [a right] to make in the land that William holds of him. If the summonses are duly made, and he who has notice does not come, the abbot shall receive the penalty (forisfacturam); but if the summoner omit to make the summons, he shall pay eighteen shillings to the abbot, who shall thenceforth make the summons by a messenger of his own. It is agreed that William Paginellus shall yearly receive twelve oaks, chosen by himself (ad suum cois) in the wood of Longueville (longa villa) as far as the water called Ars, and he shall not have more than twelve, except by the abbot's consent (per abbatem). It is agreed that the abbot shall give him yearly provision (provendarium) of wax, or twenty shillings; and it is in the abbot's choice (cois) to give him which he prefers; and this [is] for the reliefs (relevationibus) of Cantelupe and for the pasture of Lalande, if the men of Cantelupe can prove their right to it (illam de raisneer) in the court of William Paginellus of Lanidande which William Paginellus claims in fee (interrogat in fedo). When it comes in Mont St. Michel (fn. 31) it is respited (in respectu) until [it comes] before the king. It is agreed, concerning the seven peers (paribus) of the honour which William Paginellus holds of the abbot, that he shall summon them in his [own] court. If they are willing to go (ambulare) of their own accord, they shall go if they are free from the service of the abbot. If they are unwilling to go (ire), William Paginellus must prove (de raisneer) this in the abbot's court by tenants of the honour which he received with his wife, who have seen them in his service by the custom due from their predecessors (consuetudinem antecessorum suorum).
Hujus cause testes existunt: presul Abrincensis Michael; episcopus Sagiensis Robertus; Rogerius de Montegomeri; Richardus proconsul; Rogerius de Bellomonte; Hubertus de Ria; Unfredus de Bohon; Hubertus de Portu; Turgisus de Tracei; Alvredus Malbedenc; Gaufredus de Sai.
[?] 1085.
(Original [?] in archives. (fn. 32)
Trans. II. 242.)
715. Charter of Robert count of Mortain giving St. Michael's Mount, Cornwall to Mont St. Michel. Printed in Monasticon Anglicanum VI. (fn. 33) 989.
[1087–1091.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 34)
Cartulary, fo. 34.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 243.)
716. Charter of Robert count of Mortain and Almodis his wife. They give to St. Michael and the monks Luduhanum, (fn. 35) a manor of Richard son of Turulf, near the Mount, and the holding of Bloicus in the manor of Trevhalum, (fn. 36), and both the fairs of the Mount. The count gives’ this to God and St. Michael for the soul of William king of the English and for the soul of king William his son, and for his own soul and that of his deceased wife Mathildis and for his living one Almodis, and for their boys. This offering (caritas) is allowed by Robert his son, by the countess Almodis; and William his other son has promised (concessit) to grant it if Almodis should leave no heir and the land should thus return (reveniret) to him (William).
Istius caritatis istiusque conventionis existunt testes, a parte comitis: Ranulfus Avenel, et Rotbertus Guauterides, et Robertus Giroldi filius, et Herveus Avenel, et Ricardus dapifer; et ex parte sancti Michaelis: Albertus monachus, et Rainfredus de Say (fn. 37) monachus et Ligierius (fn. 38) prepositus, et Rogerus de Ardevone, et Guido de Monte. De conventione ista et caritate fecit Rogerus abbas et monachi caritatem comiti lxta librarum Cenomanensium. (fn. 39)
1088.
(Original in private hands [see Preface].
Cartulary, fo. 80d.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 246.)
717. Charter of Robert duke of the Normans, son of William, most glorious king of the English. For the weal of his soul and those of his father and mother and all his predecessors, he grants to Mont St. Michel—and for the soul of his brother Henry (fn. 37) —that a market be held for ever in the vill called Ardevon; and a fair, annually in the same vill, on the Nativity of the Virgin; and in Rouen, land for building a house thereon. This gift was made in the year 1088, the worshipful and strenuous Robert being abbot of Mont St. Michel.
[Signa] Rotberti comitis (Normannie); R[otberti] comitis de Mellent; Simonis de Cymilleio (fn. 41); W[illelmi] de Bretuil (fn. 42); R[oberti] (fn. 43) vicecomitis: W[illelmi] (fn. 44) de Tornebu; Pagani de Vilers; R[adulfi] Paganelli; R[oberti] (fn. 43) filii Anschetilli; W[illelmi] (fn. 44) monachi de Archis; Alberici de Cuceio; R. capellani Roberti comitis. (fn. 45)
[? 1085–1087.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 46)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 247.)
718. Charter of William (Wilgelmus) son of Hugh de Silliaco. For forgiveness of all the misdeeds of himself, his predecessors and his successors, he grants in the time of William (Wilgelmi) king of the English, of Hoel bishop of Le Mans, of Ubert the vicomte and of Geoffrey de Mayenne (Mahena), to the monks of St. Michael, for the brotherhood and the prayers of St. Michael and the monks his servants, all the dues on his land of the monks’ demesne [to be enjoyed] as their own in peace, Ralf the monk and Andrew receiving them, on behalf of that house with a green branch of thorn (cum spine viridi ramo), Oldeburga (sic) allowing the gift on behalf of (loco) his other sons and accepting the benefits [of brotherhood] for them.
Testimonio Willelmi de Vernico, et Amelini forestarii, et Berardi de Silliaco; Warini filii Rogeri; Radulfi de Dolieta; Erberti de Orca; Thebaldi capellani; Droconi[s] de Sancto Christoforo; Fulconi[s] Droardi, etc.
1110.
(Original in D’ Anisy's collection.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 248.)
719. Charter of William de Tracy. On account of the greatness of his misdeeds, and for the salvation and good of his soul and the souls of his predecessors, he has assumed the Benedictine garb at Mont St. Michel, by the favour of God and by permission of the convent. And for this he has granted to God and St. Michael and the monks the tithe of his mills at Montpinçon and of his wood at Lucerne and of a mill which was in the vill, and of the mill of Champrépus (Campus Repus), and of his mills at St. Vigor; and the church of Argouges (Argoge) with all its tithe, and the tithe of the mill there.
Hujus rei ex parte ipsius Guillelmi de Traceio testes fuerunt: Turgisius episcopus Abrincensis; Othoer de Soligneio; Radulfus de Nevilla; Radulfus Barbort. Ex parte vero monachorum: Rogerus Bec-de-fert; Gislebertus Bella-caligi; Guillelmus de Brichevilla. [Signa] Guillelmi de Traceio; Rohes[ie] uxoris sue; Turgisi filii sui; Henrici filii sui; Gieve sororis sue. Actum anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCoXo, tempore Turgisi episcopi Abrincensis qui hoc donum concessit.
[? Circ. 1125. (fn. 47) ]
(Cartulary.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 255.)
720. Charter of abbot Richard and the convent of Mont St. Michel notifying that they have transferred the piece of ground (platea) held by them, at Portesmues, from the king of England, at an annual rent of twelvepence in usual money to Stephen Le Bochier and his heirs in fee for ever, to be held of them at an annual rent of sixpence and by honourably receiving them and their servants into his inn (hospicium) at Portesmues, and finding them in firing, candle, white robe (albam), straw (paleam), and salt, as is the custom in feudal (feodales) inns, as often as they happen to be at Portesmues, and he is to pay the king the twelvepence which was paid by them and to discharge all the burdens (honera) on that land. If Stephen or his heirs should fail in any of their services, they shall have the right to execute their justice there.
[? 1120–1130.]
(Cartulary, fo. 85d.)
721. Charter of Rotbert de Duxeio notifying that on the eve of the Purification, he has entered the chapter of St. Michael, and has given and granted the abbey (ecclesie) the land of Fougères (Fulgereio) which had been an alod (alodum) of his father and predecessors, for the good of his soul etc. This was done in the presence of earl Rannulf and his barons of the Avranchin (Abrincatensium), excepting the land of Ralf de Veim which he held of him (Robert). (fn. 48)
Hoc donum hnjus terre concedo ego Guillemus filius Rotberti post mortem patris mei cum Cecilia. (fn. 49). Hujus rei sunt testes: Rotbertus de Duxeio; Rannulfus comes (fn. 50); Rotbertus Grevesac; Radulfus de Veim; Radulfus de Brei; Alvredus de Maci; Gradalonus de Taneia (fn. 51); Turgisus de Taneia; Guillemus vavassor; Gislebertus filius Adam; Hamelinus filius Adam; Guillemus de Vira; Bertrannus de Verdun (fn. 52); Stephanus de Eschailli; Rannulfus et Rannulfus (sic) de Grandevilla; Guillemus filius Rotberti de Duxeio; Cecilia uxor Rotberti; Judicalis presbyter: Richardus Cardonis; Alvredus de Maci; Guillelmus de Boce; Richardus Levelatus; Rogerius prepositus; Rogerius de Borrian; Crispinus; Rogerius de Brafes.
[1128–9.]
(Cartulary, fo. 85.)
722. Charter of Rannulf Avenel. At the entreaty of the monks, on the day of his father's burial, he gives them the church of Sartilleium with eight arpents of land appurtenant, in alms, in the place of the tithe of St. Evremund, which his father and he had given them, and which he is now to keep in his [own] hand[s], because it is too distant (remotior) from the abbey. This he does by the advice of Robert de Duxeio and other of his friends, etc.…
Facta est hrec carta in capitulo montis tempore donni Honorii pape, ecclesia Rothomagense pastore orbata, Turgiso Abrincense presule annuente, Henrico glorioso rege existente principe Anglorum et Normannorum. Et hec sunt signa eorum qui hujus rei interfuerunt. [Signa] Rannulfi datoris; Rotberti de Duxeio; Rotberti de Romaneio; Alanni filio Haimerici; Rogerii camerarii; Rivalloni Calciabovem; Trehani de Maineio; Hamelini de Cortilz; Hugonis prepositi Genitiensis; Turgisi filii Trehani; Rotberti Catti; Jordani dapiferi; Rannulfi.
[1125–1129.]
(Cartulary.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 247.)
723. Charter of Henry I. addressed to the archbishops etc. of England. He gives to Mont St. Michel and the monks there serving God twelve librates of land in Devenesira, in his manor of Budelega, in exchange for their two churches of Walegrava and Calcia which he has given to the abbey (ecclesia) of Radinguis in almoin. It is to be held as freely as those churches.
Test[ibus] Johanne episcopo Luxoviensi, et Gaufrido cancellario, et comite Willelmo de Varenna, (fn. 53) et Guillelmo de Tancarvilla, et Gaufrido de Glintone, et Guillelmo de Ponte Achard, (fn. 54) et Thoma de Sancto Johanne. Apud Pirarios super Andelam.
[? 1121.]
(Original in private collection.
Cartulary, fo. 36.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 250.)
724. Notification that Thomas de Sancto Johanne, having begun his castle at St. Jean, wasted and destroyed the woods of Nerun and Crapalt, for its building, and then, eager with greed, proceeded to the wood of Bivia and laid it waste, and likewise occupied and seized (invadere) the lands of most of the vavassours in the Honour of St. Paternus and the Honour of Geneeium. The monks of St. Michael, hearing this, prayed to God to have pity on their house and to avenge them swiftly on such a wrongdoer etc. Hearing this, Thomas, in horror, hastened like a madman to the Mount, with his brothers John and Roger and a great company, and enquired of the monks why they were clamouring to God against him and his brethren. On the monks fearlessly replying, because he had wasted their woods and wrongfully seized their lands, he, by the counsel of his brethren and of the leading men (proceres) who were with him, threw himself with all his company at the foot of abbot Roger and the monks, humbly begging them to have pity on his brethren and himself, and allow them to be reconciled on fair terms arranged by friends. The abbot, by counsel of the monks, compassionately enquired on what terms he and his brethren were willing to the reconciled, as they could not absolve them nor cease their clamour unless they gave up absolutely everything they had seized. Thomas replied: “I will leave all “the demesnes of the church in peace, lovingly, and only ask you “to grant me and my brethren the service of those tenants “(homines) who are our blood-relatives, saving [their watch ‘and] ward at the Mount, and you shall have the multure, and “toll, and tailles, and aids of their men, and such other services “as are due to the over lord (majori domino). Only let the “knight service (servitia militum) be granted to me and I will “perform [their] service to you, and all else shall be yours. “With my brethren, I beg you specially to grant me the service “of these lands: in the Honour of St. Pair, the land of “Rainald Coquus, on condition that if his heir should call on “me to do so. I will restore it him, saving his personal service. “Ralf Malregard on going to Apulia mortgaged his land to a “nephew of ours, Ralf de Port, for 12 marcs of silver, and now “our friends have discussed it, and we have agreed, so that he “has received from me 12 pounds [in money] of Le Mans for “the land on the terms that when the son of Ralph Malregard “is of an age to hold and administer (regere) his land, on my “pledged faith and that of my brethren, neither by force nor “by evil device, will we or any heir of ours detain that land, “but will promptly restore it, without question, on the said “12 pounds being repaid to us or our heirs, and, for further “security, I and my brethren swear of our own accord, on the “Holy Gospels that we and our heirs will keep this “undertaking. I have held till now, in wardship (custodia) the land “of Roger de Grandivilla, because he was my squire (armiger), “but now [that] he is made a knight, in your presence and “that of all these, both monks and laymen. I restore it to him, “for I well know that, like the other barons of the abbey, he “ought to serve the abbots: and in consideration of this I “most humbly implore you to grant me the service of Robert “son of Ivo, retaining for yourselves the dues of all his men. “William de Pomeria and Stephen de Tabula have made “submission, as traitors (perfidi) to my brother Roger, ” “whom I counsel to do you homage for their service and to “become the abbey's man, on the terms that their vavassors, “shall go and carry, wherever required, for you and your “monks the wallets (manticas) and clothes (pannos) of the “monks and pay you tithe, multure, tolls, [and] aids, because “we would not diminish the dues payable to this abbey to “which we owe our bringing up and subsistence.” Then Roger arose and did homage to the abbot, and, on the Holy Gospels. swore to be faithful to the abbey, and in no way to deprive it of its dues or seize its lands. “In the honour of Genecium, I “Thomas have mortgaged (invadimoniavi) the land of Getho “at Poterel on the terms that if the abbot and monks should “repay me four pounds in money of Le Mans, they shall enjoy “it in peace. Niel the priest, when leaving for Jerusalem “(habiens jer'm (fn. 55) ) mortgaged his vineyard to me for one marc “of silver on the terms that if the monks of the abbey were “willing to redeem it from me or any of my (fn. 56) heirs they should “enjoy it in peace, and while it is in my hands or those of my “heirs, the land-due (terrageum) shall be most fully and lawfully “paid both from it and the other vineyards of my tenants (“rusticorum), nor shall the wine ever be removed till the land-due “has been brought to St. Michael's winepress (thorcular), I “restore to you the toll of Dune which I had unjustly usurped “and seek your pardon for my wrongdoing therein; also the land “of Rainald de Monastero having learnt that I was persuaded by “perfidy to accept (reciperem) it; also the land of Garonbert, “having learnt for certain that Robert FitzHaymon gave it to “the abbey for the weal of his soul when he became a monk “(ad monachatum venit). I beg you to grant me the land of “Theobald ‘liber,’ which Hugh de Inferno holds of me, because “I receive (habeo) ten shillings yearly from him, which I am “unwilling to lose. I relinquish to you certain meadows, “below the vineyards of Briun, which that Hugh wrongfully “placed under my protection (patrocinio), having ascertained “for certain that they are of St. Michael's demesne.”
Thomas came again, another day, to the Mount with the bishop of Avranches and many other barons, approaching the abbot and monks [with the request] that they would kindly receive his homage, which they did. Then he said: “I confess “my lords, that I ought, by custom, to pay 20 shillings in “money of Le Mans, yearly, for the land of Lambert the “goldsmith, and that of Rainald son of Serlo, at the fair “(nundinos) of Montmartin. If you would alter this “(alternaretis), and admit my father and mother, myself “and my brothers to [share] the benefits of this abbey, I “would most faithfully guard, without any claim to inheritance “for myself or my heirs, your wood, which, at present, is “wholly destroyed, and would grant you instead (variando) “the land of Doblellus which renders me 8 quarters of wheat, “and all the wheat round about (in circuitu) the wood, as is “accustomed, and from the men who dwell round the wood, “and from the lands (landis) if ever they should be cultivated “(lucrate (fn. 57) ) and from the mill of Haie to your granary.” To whom the abbot and monks replied: “Since the children of “this world, as saith the Lord, are wiser than the children of “light, we should make you partakers of the benefits of this “abbey (ecclesic) and would exchange these 20 shillings, as you “desire, and would lovingly grant you all you ask in death and “in life, if we did not believe that we are being deceived by “your false and fraudulent words.”
Then Thomas arose, and his brethren with him, and in the presence of the bishop and the whole convent received the benefits of monks at the abbot's hands, with the gospels (cum textu evangelii) and promised with a kiss faithfully to observe all this agreement, and Thomas quit-claimed absolutely the land on which the wood stood and declared that neither his heirs nor his brethren should seek to regain possession. This he testified (testamentum factum est) in the chapter house of the abbey, in the time of abbot Roger and, afterwards, when he returned from captivity at Gorram, before the most pious and glorious king Henry at Argentan, Richard being abbot. (fn. 58)
Testibus: Gaufrido archipresule Rothomagensi; Johanne Luxoviensi, Richardo Baiocensi [episcopis]; [Signa] Roberto depifero de Haia; Guillelmo de Tancardevilla (fn. 59); Guillelmo pincerna de Albineio; Guillelmo Britone (fn. 60) cum multis aliis.
After this Thomas again returned to the Mount with his brethren, and renewed and confirmed this testimony in the presence, sight, and hearing of the following:—
[Signa] Turgisio presule Abrincensis ecclesie; Richardo abbate; Thoma [de Sancto Johanne]; Johanne (fn. 61) fratre ejus et Rogerio; Roberto de Abrincis; Otoele de Sulligneio; Radulfo de Vehun; Hugone de Hulmo; Radulfo de Brai; Johanne de Monte; Walterio filio Hinganch (fn. 62); Hugone Talemascha; Philippo de Sancto Petro et Alano fratre ejus, aliisque multis. Hoc autem factum est anno MoCo;XXIo, indictione secunda, (fn. 63) concurrente vi. regnante piissimo rege Henrico.
1125.
(Original in archives.
Seal of the bishop.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 257.
Cartulary, fo. 88.)
725. Charter of Rainald de Carteret (Carterei). For the weal of his soul and those of his predecessors he offers to Mont St. Michel and its monks in the time of abbot Richard the church of St. Germain of Carteret (Cartraium) with all the tithe of the whole parish and with the land of the king's alms belonging to St. Germain in Jersey (Gerseium), and with the tithe of the goods of his house.
Actum est donum hoc anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCoXXVo, Ricardo presule in Constancienci presidente ecclesia.…
After the death of Rainald, who made this gift, his son Philip (Philipphus), led astray by the counsel of certain wicked men, took away, so far as he could, the gift his father had made with his own consent. At length, by God's grace, he repented, and with a contrite heart appealed for pardon to the mercy of God and St. Michael and of abbot Bernard and the whole chapter. One day, of his own accord, he came to Mont St. Michel to pray, with his mother Lucy and his brethren Humfrey and Godfrey and certain of his men, and, with his mother and brethren, freely restored and granted the whole endowment his father had granted, and added, of his own, the tithe of his mills and two sites (plateas terre) in Jersey, outside his court, in a suitable spot, and one at Carteret, outside, in a suitable spot, and all the endowment of St. Germain. For this, and for his fresh gifts, and for abolishing the evil custom, abbot Bernard gave Philip seven pounds in new money of Rouen, and his mother a bezant (Bicanteum) of gold, and his brother Geoffrey a hawk, and Humfrey certain wineskins (ocreas). That this gift granted in the chapter [house], and placed by him with his mother and brethren, on the altar, might remain lasting and unshaken, the names of those who saw and heard it are recorded below. As to the evil custom spoken of above, it consisted in the grain of the tithe, when collected, being only allowed to be stored in Philip's court (curia), where it was diminished.
Actum autem est hoc donum, et ex parte Philipphi concessum presente et concedente Algaro Constantiarum (sic) episcopo coram capitulo et clero, anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCoXXXVo indictione nono (fn. 64). [Signa] Algari episcopi; Radulfi Baiocensis decani; Rogeri archidiaconi Osberni cantoris; Gisleberti archidiaconi; Radulfi archidiaconi; Philipphi de (fn. 65) Cartret (fn. 66); Unfridi (fn. 67) fratris ejus; Gaufridi fratris ejus; Lucie matris eorum. Ex partc ecclesie hi adfuerunt: prior Exaquii (fn. 68); Johannes canonicus; Willelmus canonicus; Symon filius Johannis; Robertus Papa; Symon de Cocto-bocco; Robertus Hausart (fn. 69); Ranulfus de Collevilla; Petrus clericus de Genecio; Thomas de Leiseus.
[1135–1149.]
(Cartulary, fo. 105.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 266.)
726. Notification that Philip de Cartrait restores to St. Michael and abbot Bernard and the convent the tithe of St. Ouen (Audoenus) in Gersoi quit of all claim, as to oats and straw and all else, with an acre of land, at their choice, for making their grange and storing their tithe.
Testes sunt hujus donationis qui aderant; Domina Lucia; Jordanus, Rotbertus, Henricus, milites de Barnevilla; Guillelmus de Traceio; Radulfus de Fulquervilla monachus, et Johannes de Molincllis monachus; Odo capellanus de Bray; Ranulfus presbiter de Cartraio; Stephanus prepositus; Robertus de Tosel; Turlant de Gersoi; et Aaliz filii Philippi.
[Circ. 1140.]
(Original in archives of St. Lo.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 266.)
727. Notification that, in the time of Bernard abbot of Mont St. Michel (ante 1149) Peter son of Desideria (fn. 70) was made a monk there, and gave the house his whole inheritance. And this he did with the consent of Osanna of the Isles his wife, and their daughter Orenge. And this gift they placed on the altar by (per) the arm of St. Autbert. And, for it, the abbot and convent granted to Peter's wife and daughter, in Guernsey (Guernereium), an acre and a half of land, where Peter's house was situate and three virgates of land from which he rendered three bushels of wheat, and, near by, an acre of in (de) Follaia. And, for this, five shillings [of money] of Rouen were given to Orenge.
Ex parte monachorum testes fuerunt: Rualenth Calcebos; Gislebertus Daufin; Hugo cum Testa. (fn. 71) Ex parte Orenge: Osmundus de Curia, et Richardus filius Osanne.
1144.
(Cartulary, fo. 90d.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 268.)
728. [Notification that] in the year 1144, when duke Geoffrey obtained (obtinente) the duchy of Normandy, and Bernard was abbot of Mont St. Michel, a certain knight Osbern de Evreceio gave the abbey the church of Evrecy etc. etc…
Hi sunt testes: Guillelmus; Ruellem Calcebovem (fn. 72); Guillelmus Graverenc de Evreceio; Robertus filius Garini, et Guillelmus (fn. 73) filius Rogerii; Hugo Testa.
1144.
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 259.)
729. Notification that the Priory (ecclesia) of St. Michael of Cornwall was built by Bernard abbot of Mont St. Michel in the year king Henry died, and dedicated (consecrata) by Robert bishop of Exeter in the ninth (nono (fn. 74) ) of the reign of king Stephen at the prayer of the said abbot then present. The abbot, in his wisdom, by counsel of the bishop, and with the approval (suffragio) of earl Ranulf (Ranulfi (fn. 75) ) and [the] barons, arranged for thirteen brethren, making sufficient provision for their needs out of the previous endowments of the church, and those given in his presence by neighbours (viris provincie). He also appointed that the prior chosen by the abbot of Mont St. Michel should, in person or by one of the brethren, pay 16 marcs annually [to the parent house.] If he acted in contravention of this appointment, or set himself against the abbot and convent, in anything, he was to be degraded from his office, and replaced by one chosen by the abbot with the convent's advice. If he should be proud and contumacious, and disobedient to the prelates of the Norman Mount, he should lose all share in the benefits of that house, and be excommunicated by all churches in union with it. As to the brethren who might enter the community in Cornwall, they should go to Mont St. Michel to receive the benediction, as monks, from its abbot, unless he happens to visit Cornwall and is willing to give it them there. Whoever should venture to infringe this, by diminishing the number of the monks or applying the possessions of the house to other purposes was to be sentenced to anathema etc. etc.
(Possessions of the Priory.)
The possessions given to St. Michael of Cornwall by Robert count of Mortain are: Trevanne, two plonghlands; Traokaboht, three; Lismanehee, three; Tregavers, two; Carmailehc, two, besides pasture for stock of all kinds; in all 12 ploughs (carruce). Abbot Bernard.… to Andrew de Treugoht and Blohius his brother, who made a claim in Carmailehc, and to Odo son of Robert and his brethren, who in the Hundred… in the presence of Richard sheriff of Cornwall and Bernard the scribe and many other barons, offered them a day for [doing them] right … (document torn).
[1140–1150.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 76)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 256. (fn. 77) )
730. Letter of R[oger], prior of St. Cuthbert's [Durham] to Algar bishop of Coutances, thanking him for all his kindness to their brethren dwelling at Champrépus (Campus Repulsus), and explaining that the difficulty and danger of the sea [journey], with the intolerable war and his ill-health, which is worse than usual, prevent him from visiting the bishop. They have all come to the conclusion that they cannot administer the church, in his diocese, which they undertook at his request; and he who offered them the endowment is dead, and his heirs, as the bishop knows, disinherited. Moreover, they are unable to implead (placitare) as they are summoned to do by the bishop; and the endowments of the church are being scattered abroad. (fn. 78) They implore him, therefore, to see to it that the church be not debased to secular use. They grant it, so far as they are concerned, to abbot T. (sic) and those serving God [with him], to hold, by the bishop's advice.
[Circ. 1150.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 311.)
731. Notification that Rainald son of Ugo mortgaged to the monks of Mont St. Michel for 100 shillings [in money of] Le Mans, the land which he held by inheritance in Guernsey (Guernereium) on the terms that if he or any of his heirs should repay that money, he should have the free enjoyment of that land. But when, not long afterwards, Rainald fell ill and, becoming worse, felt death approaching, he granted that land, by consent of his wife, who was present, to St. Michael and his monks for ever, for the love of God and the redemption of his soul. Of that gift his confessor is witness; and it is allowed by his daughter Aaelis and by Richard, the husband of his other daughter, on behalf of his wife.
[Circ. 1150.] Prime donacionis quam quidem Rainaldus fecerat testes sunt: Johannes presbiter, Radulfus homo ejus de Donvilla (fn. 79) et Rogerius homo ejus. Concessionis vero quam postmodum filie ejusdem Rainaldi fecerunt, testes sunt hi: Rivallo Calcebos; Hugo Testa (fn. 80); Saugulo, (fn. 81) et multi alii.
[Circ. 1150.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 82)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 309.)
732. Charter of Robert pincerna son of Ascelin, giving to St. Michael and his monks for the weal of his father and his mother, and his son Goscelin, and his brother Walter, and for the good of his soul, all his privilege (consuetudinem) in the castle of Dinan, by hereditary right, namely [that of] the dish (patella) and everything bought for the monks’ own use (omnia propriis usibus monachorum empta), to be thenceforth enjoyed by them, on condition that if he should wish to become a monk, they shall honourably and gladly receive him. If, which God forbid (quod absit) he should die, without entering their order, his body, wherever he may die, shall be brought by the monks to Mont St. Michel, and [buried] with a service as for one of themselves. This gift he places on the altar on Michaelmas eve (fn. 83) (?).
Hanc conventionem scripsit Gislebertus juvenis. Isti sunt testes: Rogerius, Petrus, Robertus et uxor sua Orweal, et Guillelmus Malpenner. Ex parte Abbatis: Henricus de Sancto Petro; Thomas de Lesels; Gaufridus de Bacileio, et (sic) de Morant.
1154.
(Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 269.)
733. Record of homage done to abbot Robert of Mont St. Michel by the barons of the abbey on his accession in 1154. Printed in Chronicles of the reigns of Stephen, Henry II. and Richard I. IV. 350.
1155.
(Cartulary, fos. 112d.–114d.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 275.)
734. [Notification that] in the year 1155, the second of king Henry, when the manor of Ertincumbe was [lying] desolate, from the long war, and its demesnes squandered, Robert de Sancto Pancratio, then prior in England for St. Michael, strove strenuously, with his companions, to regain the demesne lands for St. Michael's use. And as the monks had no mansion-house of their own in that manor, he and they so prevailed on Fulchard son of Orgar that Orgar quitclaimed the house (masura) in which his father had dwelt, by the river Hart (Erti), and the monks there made St. Michael's hall (halla). And Fulcard received in exchange a ferling and 4 acres of demesne land, quit of all dues to the monks, and five shillings of St. Michael's money at the hand of Robert de Mont-Sorel.
[Testes: idem Robertus; Jachob filius ejus; Robertus de Stontuna; Hardingus prepositus, et alii multi, et hundreda manerii. Hec concessit Robertus abbas et collaudavit] (fn. 84) cum venisset in Angliam, anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCoLVIIo.
In the same year, when abbot Robert wished to have a trial by battle (tenere unum duellum) for (de) the honour of St. Pair at Mont St. Michel, and William de Sancto Johanne forbade it to be held (duceretur) outside that honour, the abbot laid the case (ostendit hoc verbum) before Arnulf, bishop of Lisieux and Robert de Novo Burgo, who were the king's justices, in assize, at Domfront, and it was adjudged by decision (consideratione) of the king's court that all the barons of Normandy who held in chief of the lord of Normandy, as did the abbot of Mont St. Michel, could, if they would, bring to their chief residence all trials by battle, even from their most remote lands. And thus the abbot proved his case.
Testes: Robertus de Novo Burgo; Hasculfus de Folligncio (fn. 85); Gislebertus de Campellis, et aliis multis. (fn. 86)
1156. In the year 1156…. abbot Robert crossing to Gersoi, made Roger son of Ranulf, who gave an acre of land, a monk; and Osbert his son, mortgaged all his land for six years for 17 pounds of Anjou, to Rualend the monk, who had charge of St. Michael's land in the island.
Testes: Stephanus prepositus; Gislebertus Brito, et Gislebertus de Hoga.
1157. In the year 1157, when abbot Robert had come to England, he took in [to] his hands six islands (insulas) which four men held at two shillings rent. In them were nearly 20 acres, what with wood and meadow.
In the same year abbot Robert granted to Adam the priest the church of Erticumbe for 40 shillings, releasing the tithe of the demesne, and for the tithe of a ferling, though (cum) his predecessor had the whole tithe both of the demesne and of the villeins (rusticis) with the whole church for six years.
In the same year, at Otterton (Otrintonam) he demised to Nicholas the priest, for a right of way through his land between the gardens of St. Michael two pence of rent (de gablo terre) from the demesne.
Testes: Alricus prepositus; Jordanus de Bordelai; Rasa.
In the same year, when the abbot had returned from England and had come to king Henry at Mortain (Moretolium) and had complained to him that his officers at [South]Hampton had exacted pontage for his horses at that port he most graciously freed the actual property of the abbot and monks of Mont St. Michel from all due, toll, passage and pontage, throughout his realm, both in England and Normandy. (fn. 87) (And he gave abbot Robert a charter to that effect, of which this is the transcript:—
Writ of Henry II. addressed to all his officers of England and Normandy and the seaports. All the property of the monks of St. Michael, declared to be their own by their men, is to be free of toll and passage and pontage and every due throughout his realm, in England and Normandy and the seaports. Ten pounds penalty for infringement.
Teste Roberto de Novo Burgo. Apud Moret[olium]. (fn. 88)
By another writ the king ordered his officers at [South] Hampton to refund the pontage they had taken for the abbot's horses.
Testes: Robertus de Novo Burgo; Philippus episcopus Baiocensis; Johannes filius Bigot; Boso de Thorigneio.) (fn. 89)
In the same year (fn. 90) king Henry, at the entreaty of the monks held a sworn inquest (fecit recognoscere per jusjurandum) by lawful men whether in the time of king Henry his grandfather the men of St. Michael at Britavilla and Versun and the men of the monks and nuns of Caen brought the king's hay, as Robert earl of Gloucester made them do after king Henry's death, or whether it was brought at the king's cost. When Robert, porter of the castle, Ralf de Leun, Humfrey de Burnelvilla, and Fulk de Herovilla, who were demesne serjeants of the king, had sworn, the evil custom was discontinued by the good prince (studio pii principis decidit), and the men of St. Michael were relieved of it, and consequently the men of the monks and nuns of Caen. And it was directed that the hay should be brought at the king's cost, as had been sworn.
Testes: Robertus de Novo Burgo dapifer; Willelmus filius Johannis; Robertus filius Bernardi prepositus Cadomi; Gelduinus de Versun; Rogerus frater ejus; Turstinus Goherius. (fn. 91)
[1156. (fn. 92) ]
(Original in archives. (fn. 93)
Trans Vol. II.
fo. 267. (fn. 94)
735. Charter of Richard, bishop of Coutances, notifying that Philip de Cartraeio, of his diocese, for the weal of him and his, and at the bishop's desire and prayer, has given in[to] his hand for God and Mont St. Michel the church of St. Ouen (Audoenus) and the chapel of St. Mary in the island of Jersey (Gerseium), with their lands and endowments and appurtenances. And the bishop Philip being present and agreeing, has confirmed that endowment to St. Michael for ever. Blessings on those who ratify this gift and curses on those who would impair it.
Sub testibus istis: Ricardo et Willeelmo archidiaconis; Petro, Roberto, et Petro de Sancta Susanna, capellanis nostris; Hamone decano; Stephano ejusdem ecclesie presbitero. Et de laicis, Alano de Winceles; Gisleberto de Hoga, (fn. 95) Hugone de Monte et aliis multis.
1156, 13. Feb. (fn. 96)
(Cartulary. (fn. 97)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 277. (fn. 98)
736. Bull of pope Adrian IV. confirming to the abbot and brethren of Mont St. Michel … all that they possess in the island of Gersoy; in Guernsey (Guernerium) a fourth part of the island, the churches of St. Sauveur, St. Mary of the Castle, St. Michael “de Wallo” St. Peter “de Bosco,” and St. Mary of Lishou, the chapels of St. Maglorius and St. George, and the island called Quetehou…. In England, in the diocese of Exeter, the cell of St. Michael's Mount (de Monte), Cornwall, with its appurtenances; the vill of Otritone with the church and its appurtenances; Seduine and its church; the church of Cudeb[iria] (fn. 99); Wiscumba, Estelleia, Erticumba; and the church and vill called Bordelar. In the diocese of Winchester, three churches in the vill called Basinges, and the church of Basinguestoche. In the diocese of Salisbury (Calisberiensi) the churches of Salisburne and Hectone. In the diocese of Bath, the church of Menroch with its appurtenances. In the diocese of Ely (Heliensi), the church of Wiburham. In the diocese of Durham the vill called Wath with the church and everything belonging to the vill. No one is to trouble the above monastery or seize its possessions, or retain them [if they have been] seized. They are to remain intact for the sustenance of the brethren, saving the authority of the Apostolic see, and the canonical jurisdiction of the diocesan.
Datum Beneventi per manum Rollandi Sancte Romane ecclesie presbiteri cardinalis et cancellarii. Idus Februarii, indictione ivta, incarnationis Dominice anno MoCoLoVo, pontificatus vero domini Adriani Pape iv. anno secundo.
1157.
(Original in D'Ainsy's collection.
Cartulary, fo. 115.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 279.)
737. Notification that in the year 1157 at an assize (in assisia) at Caen, when Robert abbot of Mont St. Michel complained of Jordan de Sacchevilla that he had taken certain dues and exactions, by force, from the men of Eventhoth and strove to uphold, and as it were defend them against the abbot, on the ground that his predecessors had given St. Michael the said vill of Eventhoth, it was laid down (diffinitum) in full king's court—as in [an] assize where barons were present from the four comtés of the Bessin, the Côtentin, the Oximin, and the Avranchin,—that, from the time anyone gives in Normandy any endowment to any abbey he can retain no right in it, and can claim nothing but prayers, unless he has a special charter for what he wishes to retain from the duke of Normandy, in whose hands are all endowments from the time they are given to abbeys or other religious houses.
Hoc judicium approbaverunt et confirmaverunt Robertus de Novoburgo, dapifer et justicia totius Normannie; Philippus episcopus Baiocensis; Arnulfus Lexoviensis, Ricardus Constanciencis [episcopi]; Willelmus Tallevat comes Pontivi; Ingergerius de Boun; Philippus filius Erneisi; Guillelmus [filius] Johannis; Godardus de Walz; Achard Potin, et alii.
[N. D.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 268.)
738. Charter of Philip de Carteret, giving the abbot and monks of St. Michael at the[ir] chapel of St. Mary de la Wik 29 perches of land adjoining their manor of la Wik on the west, which land William son of Robert Bauche held of him, he having given William an equivalent holding in exchange, namely, near the great enclosure of the monks, on the east. This gift Philip and his heirs are bound, in good faith, to warrant to the monks, so that they may enclose the land in their manor of la Wik with a wall, or otherwise as they will, without impediment.
[1158.
Circ. Mich.]
(Original in archives.
Trans., Vol. II.
fo. 286.)
739. Letter of Henry II. to Hugh archbishop of Rouen notifying that he has granted to the abbot and monks of Mont St. Michel his churches of Pontorson as king Henry his grandfather, had granted them. Therefore, if the bishop of Avranches refuses to give holy water for them, the archbishop is to do so, lest the churches of the castle he has recently established (firmavi) should be left without divine service.
Teste Roberto de Novoburgo apud Sanctum Jacobum, per Gervasium clericum [Thome] cancellarii.
[1158–9.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 287.)
740. Letter of Hugh, archbishop of Rouen to his dear son Herebert bishop of Avranches. At the request of their lord king Henry, and in right of his metropolitan authority, he has given holy water to his dear son Robert abbot of Mont St. Michel for the chapel of Pontorson as the bishop, after three requests, has refused to do so.
[Circ. 1158.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 288.)
741. Charter of Robert, abbot of Mont St. Michel and the convent, giving Gervase of Chichester, clerk to Thomas the Chancellor, at the prayer of Thomas, and out of love for king Henry, their church of Basinges with all its appurtenances, for his life, on condition that he pays them annually eight pounds sterling (sterlingorum) for the church and for that of Saleburne, which he holds from them. Gervase has sworn on the holy [Gospels] to be faithful to their church in all respects, and not to hamper (impedire) that church, to their harm, in his lifetime.
[Circ. 1158.]
(Original in archives.)
742. Charter of Henry II. confirming the above grant to Gervase of Chichester, clerk to the chancellor and himself. He is himself witness and pledge for both parties (utrinque).
Testibus: Thoma cancellario, et Ricardo de Campivilla. Apud Valonias.
1160.
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 287.
Cartulary, fo. 118d.)
743. Charter of Hugh, archbishop of Rouen, notifying that the dispute between the church of Avranches and the monastery of Mont St. Michel concerning the churches of Pontorson has been thus settled in the presence of Henry the second, king of the English, of himself, and of bishops Philip of Bayeux, Rotrou of Evreux, Herbert of Avranches, [and] Hugh of Durham, of Thomas the Chancellor, Richard [du Hommet] the constable and many other nobles (proceres) at Rouen: the gift of these churches to the monastery by the first and second Henry, kings of the English is to hold good; and Alan the priest of Boucé (fn. 100) to settle all his claim, is to have the option of accepting 20 pounds of Anjou at once, or 10 pounds at once, and 10 shillings of the same money annually, so long as he lives.
Testes autem supradicte transactionis sive concordie sunt: dominus noster Henricus rex Anglorum; Philippus Baiocensis, Rotrodus Ebroicensis, Herbertus Abrincensis, Hugo Dunelmensis, episcopi; Thomas cancellarius regis; Richardus de Hugmeth (fn. 101); Guillelmus filius Haimonis, et alii multi qui huic negotio interfuerunt…. Actum Rothomagi, anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCoLXo.
1166, 12 July.
(Original in archives.
Cartulary, fo. 122.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 290.)
744. Quitclaim from Rualen de Genecio to the abbot of Mont St. Michel, ut infra.
Acta est hec eadem conventio assensu et consilio domini regis Henrici secundi et actum publice in capitulo montis iiijo Idus (fn. 103) Julii anno dominice (fn. 104) (sic) incarnationis MoCoLXoVIo, regni vero gloriosissimi regis Anglie xio. (fn. 105) Teste Willelmo de Sancto Johanne; Gisleberto de Camp[ellis]; Radulfo de Poterell; Ricardo de Veimo; Radulfo de Humme[to]; Hugone Bigoto; Ricardo de Bosco; Matheo. (fn. 105).
1166, 13 July.
(Original in archives.
Cartulary, fo. 122b.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 291.)
745. Charter of Henry II. addressed to the archbishop of Rouen and to all his officers of Normandy. He confirms the agreement between abbot Robert and Rualen de Geneceio concerning the prévôté of Genest (Genecium); also that between the abbot and Gervase son of Helias concerning the exchange of the bakery (pistrini) the chirographs having been read, and agreed to by them in his presence.
T[estibus] (fn. 106) : Ricardo archidiacono Pictavensi; magistro Johanne Cumm[in]; magistro Radulfo de Tam[eswrda]; Ricardo de Humeto constabulario; Jordano Teissun; Willelmo filio Hamonis; Fulcone Paenello; et Willelmo de Sancto Johanne. Apud Fulgerias in exercitu. (fn. 107).
1166, 14 July.
(Original in archives. (fn. 108)
Cartulary, fo. 122b.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 291.)
746. Charter of Henry II. addressed to the archbishop of Rouen and all his officers of Normandy. He quitclaims to the abbot and monks of Mont St. Michel the work they used to execute at his keep of Wavry (Guavreium), on condition that the abbot and the barons of the Honour of Saint Pair (Sanctus Paternus) give the constable of that castle, annually, at Michaelmas 20 shillings in money of Anjou, or of the Roumois (Romesinorum) if current, nor shall any collector (gravennarius) or beadle have ingress on the abbot's land for [demanding] those 20 shillings, but the abbot shall send them, by his officer, to the constable at Michaelmas. And for this grant the abbot and the barons of that Honour have given him a hundred pounds of Anjou.
T[estibus] (fn. 109) : Ricardo archidiacono Pictavensi; magistro Johanne Cumin; Willelmo comite de Arundel; comite Eudone; Ricardo de Humeto, conestabulario, et Jordane Teissun; Fulcone Paenello; Willelmo de Sancto Johanne; Gaufrido monacho. Apud Fulgerias. (fn. 110)
1168, (fn. 111) 5 Jan.
(Original in archives.
Fine seal, perfect [drawing].
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 293.)
747. Charter of Philip de Cartrahio giving and confirming the endowment in Jersey (Gersoium) [made] by his predecessors and himself, his wife Nicholaa, son Reginald, and nephew (nepos) William, with many of his men and his friends, being present and allowing the gift. In it are comprised the church of St. Ouen with all its appurtenances saving only the rights of the monks and nuns of St. Sauveur to the tithes of fruits (fruytum). The monks of St. Michael are to have the right to appoint the priest (presbiterum querere) and to retain or remove him. Also the chapel of St. Mary, with all its appurtenances, adjoining which he has prepared and given the monks a suitable residence. To make his gift more acceptable to God and [therefore] more profitable to himself, he frees it from all claims, and makes over to them the straw of the crops (frugum) three sextaries of oats etc.
And the monks have granted to him and his successors, that if they should ask admission to the monastery (monachatus) for one of their near kin, it shall be granted to one in [perpetual] succession, if he be a clerk or a knight and a suitable person. And if he or his successors visit the Mount they are to be entertained, for one night, as brethren.
Actum est hoc anno Dominice Incarnationis MoCoLXoVIIo pridie Epiphanie vjo feria, apud Montem, presente domno Roberto abbate et congregatione monachorum, nostroque sicut diximus comitatu, testibus Thoma et Herberto sacerdotibus, Michaele et Benedicto clericis, Matheo et Hugone [Bigot (fn. 112) ] laicis. (fn. 113).
[? 1170.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 289.)
748. Charter of Henry II. addressed to the archbishop of Rouen and all his officers of Normandy, notifying that Rualen de Genecio has quit-claimed and forsworn before him, for himself and his heirs, in favour of abbot Robert and the monks of Mont St. Michel the prévôté of Genest (Genetii), which he held by inheritance, and has given it up into the hand of the king, who has given the abbot seizin of it. And for this, the abbot has given Rualen twenty pounds of Anjou and the land which Gervase son of Helias (fn. 114) held in exchange for the bakery (pistrini), and all the rest of the fief of Gervase, saving the service due from it to Mont St. Michel, Rualen having done homage for it to the abbot in the king's presence. And should anyone make any claim on that fief, the abbot is to do justice therein in his court. (fn. 115) The abbot has also granted him the vavassory of his kinsman Reginald the priest, saving the service due to the king and the fee of Turpis Infans, (fn. 116) his kinsman, saving the service due to the church. And, in consideration of this, Rualen has forsworn for himself and his heirs, and quitclaimed to the abbey, the church of Genest, to which he laid claim and likewise all the office of the above prévôté and bakery (pistrinum). The abbot and monks are to hold all this as agreed in his presence and as stated in his charter.
Testibus: Gaufrido archidiacono Cantuariensi; Richardo archidiacono Pictavensi, et Gilone archidiacono Rothomagensi; Walerano archidiacono Baiocensi; Clarembaldo abbate Sancti Augustini Cantuar[ie]; Man[assero (fn. 117) ] Biset dapifero; Ricardo de Luci; Willelmo Malet; Bertranno de Verdun. Apud Rading[es (fn. 118) ].
[Temp. Hen. II.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 250.)
749. Charter of Baldwin Wac, (fn. 119) notifying that he has confirmed to Mont St. Michel and its monks the land of his fee, in Gerneroi, which Geoffrey Viver has given it by consent of Peter and Payn Viver and his heirs, saving the service due to Baldwin, namely five acres of land at Erclinroke and the messuage of Richard son of William de Rua, which Godfrey held by inheritance. And for this, the abbey has given Peter Viver, by consent of the other heirs 60 shillings of Anjou by the hand of Richard de Wivilla.
Testibus: Gilberto de Munfichet; Ranulfo de Lunges; Balduino de Waspre; Ricardo monacho; Gilberto filio Roberti; Willelmo Chideron; Alano coco; Willelmo camerario; Radulfo Rabace; Roberto Viver; Pagano Viver; Roberto filio ejus; Espiart, (fn. 120) et pluribus aliis.
1170.
(Cartulary, fo. 118.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 284.)
750. Charter of Conan, duke of Britanny and earl of Richmond (Richemont), contirming the gift, by his predecessors, of Treverner (fn. 121) to the church of St. Michael and the monks there serving God, free from all claims and demands, with all its appurtenances and the isles adjoining it, lands, cultivated or not, meadows, waters, and two-thirds of the tithe, saving only the body of the thief tried (judicati) in St. Michael's court, (fn. 122) [and] military service to the earl (exercitu comitis) rendered by [a] monk's (fn. 123) hand and saving the seventh penny of a moiety of thief's chattels, and a moiety of forfeiture of blood (forifacti sanguinis) and of a moiety of fines for removing landmarks (mete terre injuste (fn. 124) occupate).
Anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCCoLXXo. Testibus: Gaufrido episcopo Cornubiensi; Hammone Leonensi episcopo; Ruallendo abbate Quinperle; Salomone archidiacono; Eveno Hospital[is (fn. 125) ] magistro; Guillelmo Ferron (fn. 126) Templi magistro, clericis duobus geminis fratribus (sic); Henrico dapifero, Henrico Bertan, (fn. 127) Henrico Hervei filio, Alano Rufo, Laicis.
[1159–1171.]
(Original in archives.
Cartulary, fo. 117.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 285.)
751. Charter of duke Conan, granting the manor of Wath to the abbey of Mont St. Michel. Printed in Monasticon Anglicanum VI. 990. (fn. 128)
1172.
(Cartulary, 132d.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 270.)
752. Return of barons owing service to Mont St. Michel in 1172. Printed in Chronicles of the reigns of Stephen, Henry II. and Richard I., IV. 349.
[1172,
May–August.]
(Original in archives.)
753. Notification by abbot Robert and the convent of Mont St. Michel that they have granted to William de Sancto Johanne the forestership of their forest of Bévais (Beveia) in inheritance as held by his predecessors, etc.
Hec autem concessio facta est Henrico rege Anglorum, duce Normannorum et Aquitanorum et comite Andegavorum presente et assensum prebente et munimine sigilli sui et auctoritate confirmante, presente etiam Henrico filio ejus rege Anglorum duce Normannorum et comite Andegavorum et assensum suum prebente, presentibus omnibus istis: Engelgero de Bohun; Jordano Taisson; Roberto Bertram; Fulcone Paganello; Willelmo de Humeto; Willelmo de Corceio; Jordano de Humeto; Engerano de Humeto; Thoma de Colunciis; Eudone filio Ernesii, baronibus; Ruallendo priore Montis; Ricardo de Haia, Raginaldo de Sancto Johanne, Rogerio Legato, Roberto de Ottrionnia, (fn. 129) Turgiso de Maidreio, Willelmo de Sancto Paterno, Willelmo de Sancto Jacobo, monachis; Matheo camerario, Rogerio forestario, Rogerio de Hiquelon, laicis. Apud Sanctum Laudum.
1175. (fn. 130)
(Cartulary, fo. 124d.)
754. Charter of Henry II. addressed generally. He recites that the dispute between the abbot and monks of Mont St. Michel and William de Humeto as to the endowment (elemosinam) at Foucarville (Fulcherivilla), has been amicably settled before himself by consent of both parties. The abbot and monks have admitted that they derive it of the gift of the lords of Haia; and William de Humeto and his son, as holding the honour of Haia, have quit-claimed it to the abbot and monks, subject only to their prayers due to themselves as lords. If the fishermen of any other fee than the abbot's shall land in the port of that manor with their fish they shall not sell a fish till the officers of the abbot and monk, and of William de Humeto and of the heirs of Haia have bought of them all they will. After the tide shall have once flowed and ebbed, they may sell to whom they will; and if they offend in this matter the abbot and monks shall receive the penalty, etc…
T[estibus]: Roberto comite de Mellent; Ricardo de Hum[eto] constabulario; Guillelmo de Curci dapifero; Gilleberto Maleth dapifero; Mauricio de Croun; Roberto Marmiun; Bertrammo de Verdun; Johanne de Sulign[eio]; Widone de Sancto Walerico. Apud Valonias.
[1175–6.]
(Original in archives. (fn. 131)
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 282.)
755. Charter of Henry II. addressed generally. He confirms to the abbot of Mont St. Michel and the monks there serving God all the gifts of his predecessors, namely count Richard the second, the countess Gunnor, count Robert, son of Richard, king William, son of Robert, and king Henry his son in lands and churches and tithes and rents and all things else, especially those of which they are actually seized. He also confirms to them his own gifts in frank almoin and whatever has been or shall be given them by others. (fn. 132)
Testibus: Joscelino Sarisb[eriensi], (fn. 133) Henrico Baiocensi, Reginaldo Bathonensi, episcopis; comite Hugone Bigot; comite Willelmo de Arundel; Ricardo de Humeto constabulario; Willelmo de Humeto filio ejus; Willelmo de Trussebot; Willelmo de Stutevilla (fn. 134); Willelmo filio Johannis; Johanne de Malherbe; Radulfo filio Stephani. Apud Lutegareshole.
[1175–1177. (fn. 135) ]
(Original in archives.
Cartulary, fo. 117.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 286.)
756. Charter of Henry II. confirming to Mont St. Michel Wat, with all its appurtenances, given by the predecessors of Conan count of Britanny and confirmed by Conan's own charter.
Testibus: R[icardo] archiepiscopo Cantuariensi; G[aufrido] Eliensi, Johanne Norwicensi, Reginaldo Bathoniensi, B[artolomeo] Exoniensi, episcopis; Gaufrido filio regis comite Britannie; Ricardo de Luci; Unfredo de Bohun constabulario; Willelmo filio Ald [elini (fn. 136) ] dapifero; Willelmo de Sancto Johanne; Randulfo de Glanvilla (fn. 137); Willelmo filio Radulfi. Apud Wintoniam.
[1175–1179.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 283.)
757. Charter of Henry II. addressed to all his officers of Normandy. He notifies that the abbey of Mont St. Michel and its monks and all their possessions are under his own protection, and are to be guarded as of his own demesne, so that no one may harm them. Should anyone offend in this, full justice is to be done at once on his behalf.
Test[ibus] Ricardo episcopo Winton[iensi] (fn. 138); Henrico episcopo Baiocensi; Ricardo de Humeto constabulario; Willelmo filio Audel[ini] dapifero; Willelmo de Lanval[ei]. Apud Wintoniam.
[1176–1178.]
(Original in archives.
Seal and counterseal almost perfect. [Drawing.]
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 297.)
758. Charter of Richard bishop of Wincherster, notifying that, having long possessed the church of Mertoc by the gift of the abbot and brethren of Mont St. Michel, he restores it to them absolutely, with all goodwill, and absolves Godfrey of Mertoc who possessed the church in his name from his sworn obligations to himself for that church, that thenceforth he may serve them faithfully as his lords and pay them, without deduction, the pension he used to pay to himself.
Test[ibus] magistro Jordano decano Cicestr[ie]; Rannulfo capellano; Jordano de Turri; Willelmo de Cicestr[ia]; Matheo clerico; Radulfo clerico de Wodebir[ia].
[1178–1189.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 289.)
759. Writ of Henry II. notifying that the abbey of Mont St. Michel and the monks there serving God and all their possessions are under his own protection and to be guarded as such while he is (fuero) in England. If anyone offends in this matter, justice is to be done without delay.
Teste fratre Rogero elemosinario apud Valonias.
1184.
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 295.)
760. Charter of abbot Robert and the convent of Mont St. Michel, granting to Walter the clerk of Picale their church of Wath in almoin, on condition of his making over, for their own use, two-thirds of the offerings in that church, and twothirds of the tithes in wheat and all that is tithed, Walter receiving the [other] third, with the land belonging to the church, and the offerings of bread, eggs, and flesh. Walter is responsible to the bishop's justice (justiciis episcopalibus) and for all the charges (honeribus) of the archbishop's officials.
Actum publice apud Montem anno ab incarnatione Domini MoCo octogesimo quarto. Testibus his: Roberto priore; Jordano cantore; Willelmo tunc priore (fn. 139) Otritonie; Galieno, Nigello, Roberto Legato, monachis; magistro Nicholao de Herpeford; Bartholomeo, Rogero de Basingis, clericis; Matheo camberlenco; Tholomeo, (fn. 140) Oliverio, laicis, et aliis multis.
1184.
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 359.)
761. Charter of abbot Robert and the convent of Mont St. Michel, giving Alan, son of Hervey, in almoin, their property at Winburgeam for the annual pension of one marc, to be paid at Midsummer, in their manor of Wath to the prior or proctor of that manor. Alan has sworn to be faithful to them in the matter of their pension and of their property.
Actum publice apud Montem anno incarnatione Domini millesimo centesimo octagesimo quarto.
[Circ. 1184.]
(Original in archives.
Seal of abbot (fn. 141) and counterseal.
[Drawing.]
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 279.)
762. Charter of abbot Robert and the convent of Mont St. Michel, notifying that they have given Richard de Bosco in exchange for his vineyard, near that which belonged to Michael the clerk, the vineyard of Peter Walepie and that of William Berengar to be held in fee and inheritance at a rent of two sextaries of wine from the acre. For this, Richard and his wife Dyonisia have given them the multure of their men of St. Leger absolutely, although the judgment of the abbot's court gave this to the abbey, as the donors have no mill in that fief. To secure the permanence of this gift, and to bar claims from heirs, they have given Dyonisia a green robe (robam unam de viride).
Teste Roberto priore; Troiano suppriore; Jordano cantore; Willelmo bailivo; Galtero; Matheo camberlenco; Radulfo Fiscannensi (fn. 142); Ricardo coquo, et aliis.
[? 1185, (fn. 143) April.]
(Original in archives.
Fragment of seal.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 302.)
763. Charter of Richard bishop of Winchester, addressed to the archdeacons, deans (fn. 144), and all the clergy and people of the see of Winchester. He ratifies the gift by Robert, abbot of Mont St. Michel, with the convent's consent, to William de Sancte Marie Ecclesia, clerk of the king's chamber, of three marcs of silver, to be received annually at the hand of master Gervase of Chichester, parson of the church of Basinges, the presentation to which belongs to the abbot, as recited in the charter of the abbot and convent which he has seen and heard [read].
Hiis testibus: magistro Stephano Rem[ensi] (fn. 145); magistro Hamone; Ricardo medico; magistro T[homa] Griffin; J[ordano] de Turri; J. de Sancto Michaele; Hugone de Gah[erst] (fn. 146); Thoma de Torn[aco] (fn. 147); Jocelino de Risindon’, et alii.
[? 1190–1191.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 295.)
764. Charter of Rainald bishop of Bath, granting permission to the monks of Mont St. Michel to receive five marcs for ever from (in) the church of Mertoc, as a pension to be paid by the vicar instituted on their presentation.
His testibus: Waltero priore Bathon[iensi]; Alexandro decano Wellensi (fn. 148); fratre Alano priore hospitalis Jerusalem in Anglia; Baldewino cancellario Salesbir[iensi (fn. 149) ], magistro Roberto de Belleford, (fn. 150) archidiacono Bathon[iensi]; Gilberto Totton[ensi] [archidiacono]; Willelmo de Cerda; magistro Godefrido de Lanton; Johanne capellano; magistro Rogero de Donelay; Hugone de Well’; Rogero de Godestow. (fn. 151)
[? 1196.]
(Original, sealed, [Drawing] in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 303.)
765. Charter of William de Chimelle, archdeacon of Richmond, notifying that he grants to Mont St. Michel and the monks there serving God five marcs annually from the church of Wath payable to any one of the monks, who are rightful patrons of that church.
Hiis testibus: magistro Rogero de Richmund’ tunc officiali; Johanne decano de Witlos(?) (fn. 152); magistro Roberto de Cestria, et aliis.
[1196.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 331.)
766. Charter of abbot Jordan and the convent of Mont St. Michel giving to master Roger de Richemont their church of Wath, with its appurtenances, in almoin. Roger is to pay the prior of Wath five marcs annually, half at Whitsuntide and half at Martinmas, saving the rights granted to Odo de Pikehale as vicar of the church.
Teste capitulo nostro et domno Willelmo de Chemilleio archidiacono de Richemont et electo Abrincensi, et multis aliis.
[1196.]
(Original in archives.
Fragment of seal.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 299.)
767. Charter of Richard I. notifying that Anschetil de Pont and his heirs are under his protection and that all his officers are to protect them as his own etc. They are not to plead for any holding in their domain of Mauxivia except before himself.
Datum apud Rothomagum per manum Eustachii vicecancellarii nostri anno quo comes Sancti Egidii desponsavit reginam Johannam. Testes comes (fn. 153) Johannes; Willelmo de Motemer; Waltero de Windesores; Matheus de Cler[is], et multi alii.
[1197,] 13 Aug.
(Original in archives.
Seal and counterseal almost perfect.
[Drawing.]
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 298.)
768. Charter of Godfrey bishop of Winchester, notifying that with the assent and at the wish of abbot Jordan and the convent of Mont St. Michel, and on their presentation, he has instituted Philip de Lucy, clerk, as parson of the church of Saleburn, saving the annual pension of three marcs, which Philip is bound to pay to the said abbot and monks within three weeks of Michaelmas and saving the grant of Mere to himself by the liberality of the monks.
Datum apud Meredon’, (fn. 154) per manum Reginaldi clerici nostri, idibus Augusti, pontificatus nostri anno octavo. Testibus hiis: Eustacio de Falcomba; Johanne de Luci; Roberto de Cornevilla; magistro Willelmo de Turre; magistro Willelmo medico; Johanne capellano; Godefrido (fn. 155); Philippo de Falcomba, Stephano, clericis.
[1195–1200.]
(Original in archives.
Seal almost perfect.
[Drawing.]
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 296.)
769. Charter of Savary bishop of Bath, notifying that he has granted to the abbot and convent of Mont St. Michel, for ever, fifteen marks from the church of Merthoc, to be received from the vicar there instituted on their presentation, five at Michaelmas, five at Christmas, and five at Easter.
Hiis testibus: Ricardo Constanciensi archidiacono; Balduino Saresb[eriensi] cancellario; Roberto de Viterio (fn. 156); Radulfo Sine avaro, et multis aliis. (fn. 157).
[1200–1205.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 297.)
770. Charter of Savary, bishop of Bath and Glastonbury. In consideration of the merits of his beloved [brethren] the abbot and convent of Mont St. Michel, and of the many calamities inflicted on them, in his time, by hostile attacks, he grants them, in pity, a perpetual pension of 20 marcs from the church of Mertoch etc. etc.
Hiis testibus: Ricardo abbate Mucheln[ensi]; Benedicto abbate Atheling[ensi]; magistro Rogero de Winesham cancellario Wellensi; magistro Johanne de Calne; Roberto decano de Cinnoch’; Philippo persona de Articumbe; Willelmo de Cerda, et multis aliis. (fn. 158)
[1205.]
(Original in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 300.)
771. Charter of abbot Jordan and the convent of Mont St. Michel, notifying that they have unanimously given to their worshipful father Henry bishop of Exeter and his successors, and to Exeter cathedral the church of Woodbury (Wddebir’) with all its appurtenances and their rights in it, that the bishop and his successors may have full power of bestowing that church on whom they will, and disposing of it and all its appurtenances as they will.
His testibus: G[altero] et H[enrico] Cornubie et Exonie archidiaconis; Ansel[mo] thesaurario Exon[iensi]; magistro Alvredo, Willelmo de Svindon’, magistro Henrico, magistro Hugone, magistro Milone, magistro Isaac, magistro Rogero, canonicis Exonie.
[1205, 31 Aug]
(Original in archives. Seal and counterseal perfect. (fn. 159) [Drawing.] Trans. Vol. II fo. 300.)
772. Charter of Henry bishop of Exeter. He grants, out of charity, to the abbey of Mont St. Michel, and the monks there serving God, for (defraying) the reception of pilgrims and guests, the following churches in his diocese at their first vacancy, [to be devoted] to their own uses, in alms for ever: the churches of Otri with its chapel of Lahedreland, of Sichemug, of Harticumbe, of Hapeford, and in Cornwall, of Morres and of St. Hilary, saving an honourable provision for the chaplains serving those churches, who shall be responsible to him and his successors for the bishop's rights, and saving in all things the rights of himself and his successors.
Datum Otritonie pridie kal. Septembris pontificatus nostri anno XIIo. Hiis testibus: Galtero et Henrico, Cornubie et Exonie archidicaconis; Anselmo thesaurario Exon[iensi] et (ut supra).
[1205.]
(Original, scaled, [Drawing] in archives.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 300.)
773. Charter of the chapter of Exeter confirming the above gift.
Hiis testibus: Willelmo de Swindon; magistro Rogero de Bidelham; Willelmo filio Jordani, Mauricio, Galfrido, et Elya capellanis, et multis aliis.
[N. D.]
(Charter-roll in D'Anisy's collection.
Trans. Vol. II.
fo. 261.)
774. Charter of Mathildis countess of Meulan (Mellento (fn. 160) ), giving to St. Michael of Cornwall and the monks there serving God, for the weal of her soul and those of her predecessors all the land of Lambedon (sic), with all its appurtenances, and the land which the monks previously held of her in the vill of Moreis, by St. Clement's well, and Le Gimas, and the land of David the chamberlain, with all their appurtenances, quit of all secular due and service for ever. The monks and their tenants on these lands are to have such common rights as her own tenants in wood and plain, pastures, lands, and elsewhere.

Footnotes

  • 1. These have not yet been calendared in France; but Mons. Dolbet, Archivisto of La Manche, has been good enough to ascertain which of the original charters are still in his Archives and to collate the attestations.
  • 2. The earlier portion of this fine cartulary was compiled about the middle of the 12th century. It closes on fo. 112.
  • 3. The modern numbering has been adopted.
  • 4. Now only a vidimus by the king of France in December 1334.
  • 5. Punctuation of Transcript wrong here.
  • 6. Also a vidimus of 1334 in the Archives. In the Cartulary, this charter is preceded by a representation of Gonnor granting hers to the abbot and monks, and followed by one [in two compartments] of the death of Richard, in which the monks are seen placing the gift on the altar for him, “per brachium sancti Autberti” (as another charter exprosses it) apparently. These drawings are copied in d'Anisy's Transcript. The original charter of Richard is headed: “Carta quam comes Richardus fecit Sancto Michacli ante obitum suum Fiscanno.”
  • 7. Trans.: “donum.”
  • 8. Omitted in Transcript.
  • 9. Cart.: “Willelmi laici”
  • 10. Trans.: “Melli.”
  • 11. Slight inaccuracies in the attestations as given in Transcript.
  • 12. The Cartulary omits the names within the brackets.
  • 13. Sic in Cartulary; “Sercam et Arenon” in original; Trans.: “Arrenon.”
  • 14. Sic in Cartulary; “Guerneroy” in Transcript.
  • 15. “Eadwardus” in Transcript; “Hatuardus” in Cartulary. M. Delisle (Histoire du Château et des sires de St. Sauveur. Preuves, p. 19) reads “Hatuardus” from the Cartulary.
  • 16. “Keitechuml” in Cartulary.
  • 17. Edvvardi here in Cartulary [and Edwardus in text of document]. Transcript gives “Eadwardus” and “Eadwardi.” M. Delisle (ut supra, p. 20) reads “Eduardi” and “Eduardus” from the Cartulary, omits the bishops of Lisieux and Coutances. and pronounces the charter suspicious (Cf. Freeman's Norman Conquest, II. 519–520).
  • 18. “Ernezii” in Transcript.
  • 19. Transcript omits the names within the brackets.
  • 20. And Cartulary, fo. 31d.
  • 21. William's signum precedes “Anno” in the Cartulary.
  • 22. “demongulmerio” in Cartulary.
  • 23. “Rainaldi” in Cartulary.
  • 24. Trans.: “Grandivalle.”
  • 25. And fo. 28 of Cartulary. Note by M. Dolbet: “Nous avons aux Archives Poriginal de la charte de molendino comitis avec laquelle celle-ci a été fabriquée. Nous avons aussi cette charte, qui pour moi n'est pas un original.”
  • 26. Cartulary inserts: “Normannorum.”
  • 27. Cartulary here continues: “Testes autem affuerunt Johannes presul Abrincensis; Hugo presul Luxoviensis; Rotbertus Bertrani; Richardus vicecomes, Radulfus cubicularius; Radulfus filius ejus; et alii quam plurimi.”
  • 28. Note by M. Dolbet: “Ces deux articles ont été également pris dans la charte de molendino comitis.” The Cartulary gives the narrative on fo. 27d., followed by William's charters as duke on fo. 28, and as king on fo. 29.
  • 29. Robert did not become bishop of Sées, it seems, till 1070, when John bishop of Avranches was dead. His name, therefore, throws some doubt on the charter. Yet the epact and concurrent point to the early part of 1166, so that Robert may be a scribe's error.
  • 30. Sense of this clause obscure.
  • 31. Sense here most obscure.
  • 32. And Cartulary, fo. 33.
  • 33. The place names are given in the Cartulary as Travelaboth, Lismanaoch, Treguauers, and Carmailoc, all described as “in amaneck.” These should be compared with the forms in No.729, infra.
  • 34. No longer there now.
  • 35. Cart.: “Ludahanum.” Cf. Domesday 122b (2): “Idem (Ricardus) tenet Luduha[n].”
  • 36. Cart.: “Treiuhalo.” Cf. D. B., 125a: “Blohin tenet Trevthal.”
  • 37. Cart.: “Sai.”
  • 38. ? Ilgerius.
  • 39. The Cartulary adds: “Hoc factum fuit vivente Rotberto comite Normannie et Willelmo rege Anglorum, regis Willelmi filio” (which is obvious).
  • 40. Clause so placed in original.
  • 41. “Chymilleio” in Cartulary.
  • 42. “Guillelmi de Bretuil” in Cartulary.
  • 43. “Rotberti” in Cartulary.
  • 44. “Guillelmi” in Cartulary.
  • 45. “Comitis Rotberti, comitis Normannie” in Cartulary.
  • 46. And Cartulary fo. 78d.
  • 47. This charter may be of much later date. The abbot's name is the only clue. It was not found by the Editor in the Cartulary.
  • 48. Clause inserted thus in charter.
  • 49. Sic.
  • 50. i.e., of Chester.
  • 51. Cf. Geoffrey de Mandeville, pp. 91, 104, 142.
  • 52. “Bertrannus de Verduno” is witness to a local charter of 1066 on fo. 84.
  • 53. Cart.: “Warenna.”
  • 54. Rectius: “Archarum.”
  • 55. Misread “jerlin” in Transcript.
  • 56. “Suorum” in Transcript.
  • 57. “lacrate” in Cartulary.
  • 58. Richard did not become abbot till 1123.
  • 59. “Cancardevilla” erroneously in Transcript.
  • 60. ? “de Albineio.”
  • 61. Cf. Rot. Pip. 31 Hen. I. (Record Commission), p. 3.
  • 62. “Gauterio filio Hingandi” in Cartulary. (Probably “Hinganch” is a misteading by d'Anisy).
  • 63. “Ximn in Cartulary; but both are wrong. The “concurrent” indicates 1122.
  • 64. i.e., 1131; but in Cartulary “xiiiin,” i.e., 1136.
  • 65. Omitted in Transcript.
  • 66. Cart.: “Philippi de Carterei.”
  • 67. Cart.: “Hunfredi.”
  • 68. Cart.: “Exaquii Guillelmus.”
  • 69. Trans.: “Ansart.”
  • 70. Trans.: “N.”
  • 71. Trans.: “Hugo etc.”
  • 72. Trans.: “Ruallend Calcebof.”
  • 73. “Cadomo” interlined above this witness, probably as the place of the charter. Transcript reads in error: “Guillelmus de Cadomo.”
  • 74. Trans.: “novo.”
  • 75. ? “Rainaldi.”
  • 76. No longer there now.
  • 77. Another version, also from the archives of La Manche, is transcribed on fo. 81. It only varies in one clause (see next note), but this variation is clearly the transcriber's.
  • 78. See note 2, supra.
  • 79. Trans.: “Douvilla.”
  • 80. See Nos. 727, 728.
  • 81. ? “Sawalo”
  • 82. No longer there now.
  • 83. “Perendie [? pridic] ante S.M. festum” in Transcript.
  • 84. The words in brackets are omitted in Transcript.
  • 85. Rectius: “Solligneio.”
  • 86. Not transcribed.
  • 87. The passage within brackets is omitted in the Transcript.
  • 88. The original of this writ, with fragment of seal, is now in the Archives.
  • 89. The passage within brackets is omitted in the Transcript.
  • 90. Before April.
  • 91. This document not transcribed.
  • 92. See also Cartulary, fo. 113b.
  • 93. No longer there now.
  • 94. M. D'Anisy transcribed it as a confirmation of No. 726, but it evidently confirms a later and different transaction.
  • 95. Trans. “Hosa.”
  • 96. Proved by Indiction and Papal year.
  • 97. Not identified in Cartulary.
  • 98. Printed in Monasticon VI. 991, from a Cartulary in private hands, but so badly that it reads “Ecclesiam de Polleyo in Anglia … Villam Ettoniæ (i.e., Otritone),” etc.
  • 99. Rectius: “Wudeb [iria].”
  • 100. “presbitero de Boce-Alano” in Transcript.
  • 101. Cart.: “Hugineth”; Trans.; “Humetis.”
  • 102. Trans.: “quarto Idibus.”
  • 103. Trans.: “Domini.”
  • 104. Trans.: “ix.”
  • 105. These names are badly transcribed, closing with “Ricardo Bosco.”
  • 106. Trans.: “Teste.”
  • 107. The Cartulary adds: “Data per manum magistri Stephani iijo idus Julii, anno “ab incarnatione Domini MoCoLXoVIo regni vero gloriosi regis Augl[orum] xio.” Trans.: “ixo.”
  • 108. No longer there now.
  • 109. Trans.: “Teste”.
  • 110. The Cartulary adds: “Data per manum magistri Stephani ij. idus Julii anno “ab incarnatione Domini MoCoLXoVIo presidente universali Catholice ecclesie “Alexandro Papai iito, regnante vero gloriossissimo rege Angl[orum] et duce Norm [annorum] et Aquit [anorum] et comite And [egavorum] Henrici anno xio.” Trans.: “ixo.”
  • 111. Proved by “vja feria.”
  • 112. Omitted in Transcript.
  • 113. The original gift is assigned to 1156 in the Cartulary (fo. 113b) where Philip is styled “cognatus” of abbot Robert [de Torigni].
  • 114. The agreement between him and the abbey is on fo. 122 of the Cartulary.
  • 115. This clause omitted in Transcript.
  • 116. The opposite nickname to “Bonenfant.”
  • 117. Trans.: “Manessier.”
  • 118. Trans.: “Kadun.”
  • 119. Trans.: “de Wac.”
  • 120. Omitted in Transcript.
  • 121. In Britanny.
  • 122. The text is obscure at this point: “judicati exercitu comitis.”
  • 123. “per manum reddito monachi.” [Trans.: “monache.”]
  • 124. Trans.: “et juste.”
  • 125. Trans.: “Hospitali.”
  • 126. Trans.: “Ferre.”
  • 127. Trans.: “Bertrand.”
  • 128. A grant of the church by him, not printed in the Monasticon, is entered in the Cartulary with these witnesses: “Radulfo filio Ribaldi; Roberto filio suo; “Garnerio filio Guimari; Alano constabulario; Herveo filio Acarie; Georgio “filio camerarii; Nigello fratre suo; comite Reginaldo; comite Roberto “Legrecestrie; Bartholomeo episcopo Exonie (sic); Roberto filio regis; Alano de “Furnellis; Pagano capellano; Richardo priore Otriton [ie]; Willelmo de Sancto; “Roberto filio Unfredi. Apud Wiltoniam.” The date must be 1161–1171.
  • 129. Trans: “Otritonnia.”
  • 130. Marginal note “Anno ab incarnatione domini MoCoLXXoVo.”
  • 131. Now only vidimus in duplicate of 1315, and authenticated copy of vidimus of 1296.
  • 132. This is the charter that Robert de Torigni states in his chronicle (Ed. Howlett, p. 269) he obtained on visiting England, not No. 757, as there alleged in a footnote.
  • 133. Trans.: “Sarisbury.”
  • 134. Trans.: “Stuton.”
  • 135. Proved by presence of William son of Ralph.
  • 136. “Audel[ini]” in Cartulary.
  • 137. Trans. “Ranulfo de Glainvilla.”
  • 138. Trans.: “de Winton.”
  • 139. Trans.: “Priore tunc.”
  • 140. Trans.: “Tholonno.”
  • 141. See Preface.
  • 142. Trans.: “Fiscano.”
  • 143. This charter is dated by M. Delisle circ. 1175, but the names of the donee and of abbot Robert limit the date, in the opinion of the Editor, to 1183–1186. As it can be proved that eight out of the nine witnesses were present with the bishop of Winchester at Dover, April 10, 1185, when the king was there with the patriarch Heraclius (Harl. Cart. 43 I. 38; Collectanea Top. et Gen. III. 176), the charter can safely be assigned to that occasion.
  • 144. Trans.: “archidiacono, diacono.”
  • 145. Trans.: “Bem’.”
  • 146. Trans.: “Bath.”
  • 147. Trans.: “Torth.”
  • 148. Trans.: “de Wellensis.”
  • 149. Trans.: “Salisbury.”
  • 150. Sic in original
  • 151. Trans.: “Godeslow.”
  • 152. Trans.: “Wirt.”
  • 153. Trans.: “Teste comite Johanne; Willelmo de Mortemer; Waltero de Windsore; Matheo de Cler.”
  • 154. Trans.: “Datum Merendon’ per manum Regium.”
  • 155. Omitted in Transcript.
  • 156. ? Precentor of Paris 1199.
  • 157. Trans.: “Testibus Ricardo cancellario.. Roberto Viereio; Radulfo. Avalo, et alii.”
  • 158. Trans.: “et alii.”
  • 159. Now detached.
  • 160. Daughter of Reginald earl of Cornwall.