CP40/566: Trinity term 1402

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 033

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: William T. and John P., former servants and executors of the will of Roger H., claim that John B., as son and heir of Robert B., owe them £20 per a bond made between RH and RB during their lifetimes. The plaintiffs claim that RB was to pay the said RH £20 in RH's household in London, and obliged himself and his son and heir in this sum, but that the sum was never paid. Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court as well as letters testamentary.

Pleading: JB says that the action against him ought not hold because he has never had the lands, tenements etc which he ought to have inherited from his father RB in fee simple, and had not on the day of the original writ.

Pleading: WT and JP say that their action should continue because on the day of their original writ, namely 12 April 1401, JB was in possession of sufficient lands and tenements which had descended to him from RB in fee simple with which to pay the debt concerned, namely in Boynton, Bridlington, Caythorp, Grindale, Burton Fleming, Rudston, Hunmanby, and Buckton in Yorkshire. Concerning this the plaintiffs seek inquiry upon the country, and JB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff ( of Yorkshire?) etc., to make a jury come in the quindene of Michaelmas 1402. Pledges named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 068d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Richard F., Denis L., Robert G., and John L, executors of the will of John B., claim that John E. owes them 40m per a bond made between JE and JB during his lifetime. The bond, made on 15/03/1391, was to be paid to JB or his attorney in household in London, and to that payment JE made accountable his heirs and executors and all his goods and chattels. Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court as well as proof they are the executors etc. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made, but the plaintiffs say it was made at London in the parish of St. Lawrence Jewry, Cheap ward.

Pleading: JE says that the bond is endorsed, and asks that the endorsement be read aloud. The endorsement says that if JE or others in his name should pay JB 20m at the time and in the place aforesaid that the bond shall be null and void. JE says that he paid JB the said 20m at Bosham, Sussex, according to the terms of the endorsement, and this he is prepared to verify.

Pleading: The plaintiffs say that JE did not pay JB the said 20m and seek inquiry upon the country, and JE seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Sussex to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 075

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: William W. and Alice his wife claim that Thomas D. owes £4 8s 9d arrears and clear debt to Alice as determined by a reckoning of TD's account with Alice when she was a single woman, held before auditors Richard M. and John S. Damages claimed at 100s.

Pleading: TD claims that no reckoning ever took place before auditors RM and JS and puts himself upon the country, and WW with Alice put themselves similarly. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in [term omitted]. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 075

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: William atte Hothe claims that Richard G., Roger T., and Walter M. (together with William L., Alexander P., William S., Henry C., Thomas G., Peter R., Adam L., Adam P., Miles P., John D., Geoffrey T., John S., Richard Hygin, John Hikmott, and Robert P.) broke his close and house at London with force and arms, and carried off goods and chattels to the value of £30. The items taken were namely: two mazers decorated with silver and gilt, 12 silver spoons, 4 brass ('eneas') jars, 6 brass plates, 12 tablecloths and towels and other household utensils. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: RG, RT, and WM say that they are not to blame and put themselves upon the country, and William atte Hothe puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff to make a jury come in the morrow of St John the Baptist 1402. Pledges are named for the defendants.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 075d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Reckoning of account; Sale of goods

Pleading: Robert S. claims that Nicholas Burton, former servant of Sir William Arundell. owes him 40s arrears and clear debt arising from NB's purchase of one piece of blue worsted and the receipt of diverse monies etc., as determined by a reckoning of account before auditors Thomas C. and John R. Damages are claimed at 40s.

Pleading: NB says that no such accounting took place before the aforesaid auditors and puts himself upon the country, and RS puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of St John the Baptist. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 075d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £12
Case type: Taking of goods

Pleading: John C. and Joan his wife claim that with force and arms Thomas B. came upon, seized, and carried off their goods and chattels to the value of 105s 6d. The goods taken were namely one cover with a canopy and 3 curtains, 2 blankets, one pair of sheets, one pair of kersey hose, 8 bows made of yew wood, two purses of golden cloth worked with pearls, 100 pearls, one golden ring, 2 ounces of broken silver, one mazer, one basin with laver, one brass jar ('eneam'), and 4 latten candlesticks. Damages are claimed at £12.

Pleading: TB says that he is not to blame and puts himself upon the country, and John C. with Joan put themselves likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of St John the Baptist 1402. TB names John Wiltschire as his attorney.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 092

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Robert Bury claims that he demised one messuage with appurtenances in the parish of St Benet Gracechurch [ward omitted], London, to John B. for two years starting at Easter 1397 in exchange for 6m paid annually at Christmas and Easter. RB says that JB did not pay the 40s due at Christmas 1397. Damages claimed at £10.

Pleading: JB, not acknowledging that the demise was ever made to him as claimed, says that he does not owe this 40s as claimed. JB puts himself upon the country, and RB puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of St John the Baptist 1402. Pledges named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 102

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Assault

Pleading: John R. claims that John B. assaulted him with force and arms, to his damage of £10.

Pleading: JB says that he is not to blame and places himself upon the country, and JR places himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: 1 postea - JR does not come to prosecute his suit and so he and his pledges of the prosecution are in mercy. JB is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 102d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Suffolk
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 20s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Richard W. and Thomas S. claim that John F. owes them £20 unpaid residue of a £25 bond. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JF says that the force of the bond ought not hold because he was imprisoned by RW and TS in London at the time of its making. Hence, JF says that the bond was made under duress and that he is prepared to verify this.

Pleading: RW and TS say that JF was a free man at the time of the making of the bond and seek inquiry upon the country, and JF seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: postea 1 - writ not sent, and case forwarded to Michaelmas term in one month.

Postea text: postea 2 - JF abandons his plea (that he was imprisoned at the time of the bond's making) and says that he cannot deny that he owes RW and TS the said £20. RW and TS are to recover the debt plus damages, assessed at 20s. JF amerced.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 104d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: Bishop Guy (Mone) of St. David's claims that William White owes him £18 arrears as determined by a reckoning of the account between them before auditors John Halle and William Wexcombe on 20/04/1400. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: William White says that whereas bishop G. claims there was a reckoning of account on 20/04/1400, there had in fact been a reckoning of account (previously) on 1/12/1399, before auditors John Harold senior and Thomas P., whence all arrears to bishop Guy were paid. It is further claimed that on this date, 1/12/1399, the bishop gave WW a release indicating that the arrears had been paid etc. This release is shown in court.

Pleading: Bishop Guy reiterates his claim that WW was £18 in arrears as of the reckoning of account made on 19/04/1400, and seeks inquiry upon the country, and WW seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 105d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £1000
Case type: Arbitration; Detention of goods; Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Safe keeping

Pleading: John Bradefeld claims that on 01/02/1402 he delivered to William B., for safe keeping, a certain bond in which John Garton of Kent is held to John B. for £1000, and that WB has not returned this bond. Damages are claimed at £1000.

Pleading: WB comes to court and presents the said bond, to be delivered as the court decides, and states that he was indeed given the bond on the day stated for safe keeping etc., but that it was given to him jointly by JB and JG, to be returned to either of them under certain conditions; however, he does not know whether these conditions have been fulfilled on the part of JG, and seeks that John Garton be forewarned etc. Sheriff ordered to warn JG to be here on the morrow of St John the Baptist, to show any reason why the bond should not be delivered to JB.

Pleading: [continued at Michaelmas 1402, rot 670] On this day [morrow of St John the Baptist, 1402], parties came, JG came, sheriff sent that he warned JG to be here by John North and William Ruston. Day given at quindene of Michaelmas 1402. On that day, parties came, JG came, JB seeks delivery of the bond.

Pleading: JG states that JB ought not have delivery of the said bond, as the bond was delivered to WB under certain conditions, namely that if JG should stand in the arbitration of WB and John Bryan, arbitrators for JB, and Richard Clyderowe and John Crepyn for JG, concerning all actions and quarrels outstanding between them before 31 January 1402, as well as regarding all issues of various lands and tenements of JG relating to a debt of statute staple made between a certain Thomas Bradefeld and JB, and if JG should abide by and implement this arbitration, then the bond shall be delivered to JG; otherwise it should be delivered to JB. JG states that the arbitrators met in London on 17 March 1402, where it was decided that JG should pay for JB, in the name of JB, £100 to a certain Edmund Bys, of which 100s should be paid at the quindene of Easter 1402, 100s at the Nativity of St John the Baptist 1402, 100s at Michaelmas 1402, 100s at Christmas 1402, and so on, feast by feast, until the said £100 should be paid to EB. Afterwards, at the quindene of Easter 1402, after the 100s had been paid, JB delivered to EB the statute staple by which TB was held to JB in the said £100, together with all other documents in his possession pertaining to JG, and also issued a release to JG of all real and personal actions and other issues outstanding, which he also delivered to EB for safe-keeping, for him to hold until EB had been presented with sufficient security for the outstanding debt in the following form, namely that JG should come to London at the said quindene of Easter 1402, and because John Campden, Richard Clyderowe, John Ikelyngton and William Norton were enfeoffed by JG of all his lands and tenements in all of England, which lands JG had entered and received the profits, JG would secure a release from the feoffees, which would be enrolled, and JG would then show this to EB, and offer to bind and oblige himself to EB for the remaining payments toward the said £100, to be paid in the next five years by instalments of 100s at the four usual feasts. IF EB refused, JG would find another to offer security on these terms. After this security was found, EB would deliver to JG the bond of statute staple, the release and the other muniments. JG states that he came to London on that quindene of Easter, paid the 100s, and asked JB to deliver to EB the £1000 bond and the other charters, and to make the release and deliver it to EB, but JB completely refused. Afterwards, JG, as quickly as he could, on 10 April 1402, got the release from the feoffees, each of which sought to have the release enrolled in the Chancery, and then JG came to EB and offered to oblige himself in the remaining sums, according to the arbitration. EB checked the release in chancery, and on 30 April he refused JG's security, following which JG brought with him RC, WN and William Ledred, who offered to oblige themselves as security in a bond of £200. However, EB also refused this security, as JG is prepared to verify.

Pleading: JB states that the arbitrators ordained that JG should have all his lands in his hands, and should pledge security to EB of £200 for payment of the £100 at the terms specified, and if EB should refuse, then JG should find other sufficient security for the £100 by the said quindene of Easter 1402. JB was not to deliver the bond and charters to EB before this security was found. JB also states that on 22 September 1398 JG bound himself to John Norton in £200, payable at All Saints then next, which JG did not pay, and hence JG's lands are also burdened of this £200. JG also did not offer himself with RC, WN and WL as security before the said quindene of Easter.

Pleading: JG, not acknowledging anything said by JB, states that the arbitrators ordained that security should be made on the said quindene or as soon afterwards, after he had secured the necessary release from the feoffees. They did not say that the security was to be found before the said quindene.

Pleading: JB repeats that the arbitrators ordained that security was to be found before the said quindene, as claimed. Enquiry by country, jury here at quindene of Hilary 1403.

Postea text: Process continued, jury in respite to octave of Martinmas. On this day, JG and WB came in person, JB did not come. He and pledges to prosecute amerced. Order that JG have delivery of the document. WB quit.

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/567 rot 670.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 108

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Essex
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Debt; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Richard C. claims that on 10 August 1395, in Billericay, he demised at farm to John B. and his wife Alice a messuage and 34 acres of land with appurtenances in Billericay, by the name of all the lands, etc, formerly held in that vill by John Torold, to be held by them or their assigns from Michaelmas then next for 15 years, at an annual rent of 13s 4d, payable in equal portions at Easter and Michaelmas, together with all other rents and services. However, the defendants have not paid the 5m 6s 8d in arrears and due on the day of his original writ, 8 March 1402, to his damage of £20. RC shows his part of the indenture to the court.

Pleading: JB and AB, not acknowledging anything said by RC, state that RC ought not maintain his suit against them because John Torold was lately seised of the messuage and appurtenances in his demesne as of fee, held of the abbot of Stratford Langthorne by military service, and also held the 34 acres of land of the abbot as of his manor of Burstead, as per the rolls of the court at the will of the abbot, according to the custom of the manor. JT then died, and the lands passed to his son and heir, also John. Meanwhile, RC married Alice, widow of JT (senior), and he demised the property to JB and AB as claimed. However, on 10 August 1396, the abbot seized the manor and other property into his hands, by virtue of the minority of John Torold (junior), and demised the messuage and land to JB and AB, for them to hold from the abbot until such time as John Torold junior should come of full age. They were therefore exonerated of any payments by virtue of the initial demise, and were not in any arrears at the time of the seizure by the abbot.

Pleading: RC, not acknowledging anything said by the defendants, states that the abbot did enter into the said messuage and 34 acres for one year, when John Torold junior was 5 years old, and that the abbot then delivered the said messuage and lands to RC himself, to hold until John Torold junior should come of age. RC says that he then demised the property to JB and AB.

Pleading: JB and AB state that RC has nothing in this property by the grant and demise of the abbot.

Pleading: RC reiterates his claim that the abbot delivered the land to him to hold until the majority of John Torold (junior), and he then demised it to the defendants. RC puts himself upon the country, and JB and AB do likewise. Order to the sheriff of Essex to have jury here at quindene of Michaelmas 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 110d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Contract (general); Sale of goods

Pleading: Adam P. claims that John I. owes him £8 per a bond. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JI asks that the bond be read out. The bond says that if JI should deliver three thousand (bundles?) of wood called 'talwode' to Fresh Warf in London before the Nativity of St. John the Baptist next coming (1398), then the bond would be null and void. JI says that he delivered this wood to a certain Richard B., attorney of AP, at Northfleet in Kent, and paid AP for the carriage of this wood to London. JI says that he thus has fulfilled the bond, that he is prepared to verify this, and that AP should cease his action etc.

Pleading: AP says that JI did not deliver the said wood to his attorney RB by the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, and seeks inquiry upon the country, and JI seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Kent to make a jury come in the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: 1 postea - the sheriff of Kent did not send the writ, so the case is forwarded as far as Hilary term 1403.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 112d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: Nicholas N. and Katherine N. his wife complain that Thomas P. should render to them reasonable account for the period 23/12/1398 to 25/12/1399 when he was receiver of the monies of Katherine, then a single woman. During this period, NN and KN claim that TP received 110m from the hands of John A. at London, in the parish of St. Bride, ward of Farringdon Without, on behalf of KN, concerning which he has not rendered reasonable account. Damages claimed at £100.

Pleading: TP says that the action against him should cease because he already rendered full account concerning this money on 14/06/1400 before Katherine's auditors John W., William S., Simon B., and Richard G.

Pleading: NN and KN say that TP did not render account before the said auditors, and seek inquiry upon the country, and TP seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Norfolk to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: 2 posteas - both say that the sheriff did not send the writ. Case forward as far as Easter term 1403.

Case notes: Related to CP 40/566 rot. 253d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 173

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Kent
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 10m
Case type: Arbitration; Assault; Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: John H. claims that on 01/04/1402 Thomas B. broke into his close and house at Greenwich, Kent, and there assaulted him and took £10 of his money. Damages are claimed at 10m.

Pleading: TB says that on 08/04/1402, at London, arbitration took place between himself and JH through arbitrators John T. and John B., chosen by TB, together with arbitrators John L. and John C. chosen by JH. These arbitrators were to consider all quarrels and debates between JH and TB etc. under the condition that if they could not reach agreement they would then seek an additional, neutral arbitrator, namely William M. Hence, WM, when called upon, decided that JH should pay TB £7. TB seeks judgment.

Pleading: JH states that no such arbitration took place in London as claimed.

Pleading: TB states that there was arbitration as claimed. Parties on country, jury to be here in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 227d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Geoffrey M. claims that Thomas C. owes him £40 on a bond. Damages are claimed at 100m. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: TC says that the bond ought not hold because it was made under duress whilst GM and others of his association held him imprisoned at Braintree, Essex.

Pleading: GM says that TC made the bond of his own free will and seeks inquiry upon the country, and TC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Essex to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: 1 postea - sheriff did not send the writ so the case is forwarded as far as Hilary term 1403.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 234d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Bartholomew N. claims that John C. owes him £6 6s 4d for 6 yards of yellow cloth, 6 yards of blood-red cloth and various other cloths bought from him, due at the feast of the Purification 1400. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: JC says that he does not owe BN the said £6 6s 4d or any money and puts himself upon the country, and BN puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402. Pledges named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 245

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Robert T., lately Richard II's receiver for Devon and Cornwall, claims that John M. owes him £7 13s on a bond made on 02/10/1398, payable to himself or his attorney in St Paul's Cathedral London on 27/10/1398. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: JM asks that the bond and its endorsements be read aloud. The bond says that if JM should pay to RT 76s 6d on the day stated that the bound shall then be null and void, and JM says that he paid RT these monies at Lostwithiel, Cornwall, on the day and year stated.

Pleading: RT says that JM did not pay the said 76s 6d to him as specified in the bond, and puts himself upon the country, and JM puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Cornwall to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402. JM puts John E. in his place versus RT concerning this suit.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 253d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: Nicholas N. and Katherine N. his wife seek that Eustace R. should render to them reasonable account for the year he was receiver of the monies of Katherine, when she was a single woman. During this said year 23/12/1389 to 25/12/1399 the plaintiffs claim that ER received 110m from the hands of Thomas P. on behalf of Katherine, namely at London, parish of St. Bride, ward of Farringdon Without. Damages are claimed at £100.

Pleading: ER says that he rendered full account concerning these monies at Norwich, Norfolk, on 14/06/1400 before Katherine's auditors John W., William S., Simon B. and Richard G., and seeks judgement.

Pleading: NN and KN say that ER did not make account before the said auditors concerning the said 110m as he alleges and seek inquiry upon the country, and ER seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Norfolk to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: 2 posteas - both say the sheriff of Norfolk did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Easter term 1403.

Case notes: Related to CP 40/566 rot. 112d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 254

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Kent
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Bond; Contract (general)

Pleading: John Ive claims that Henry, abbot of Lesnes, owes him £80 arrears out of a £26 13s 4d annuity. JI claims that he made an agreement at Lesnes with one of the abbot's predecessors, made in the chapter house of the abbey with the consent of the chapter on 8 May 1377, that the abbot and convent would grant him a life annuity of £26 13s 4d, payable out of all the abbey's lands and tenements in Lesnes, Erith and Borstal and all other lands in Kent, in four equal payments, annually at the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, Michaelmas, Christmas, and Easter. Should the annuity fall into arrears, JI was to have licence to make distraint from all these lands of the abbey until the arrears is paid. JI says that the annuity was in arrears and not paid for three years before his original writ, sued on 20 May 1402. Damages claimed at £100. The agreement is shown in court [recited in full, in Latin].

Pleading: Abbot HH states that the present king, by his letters patent which he shows in court, dated 1 February 1402, took the abbey, founded in honour of St Thomas the Martyr and in the patronage of Edmund, earl of March, a minor in the king's custody, into his hands due to the bad administration of the previous abbot. Administration of the abbey was placed into the hands of a group of commissioners, headed by Thomas, prior of Christchurch Canterbury, and as a result, payment of all annuities and corrodies, and all expenses except the necessary expenses of the house, were suspended. The annuity cannot therefore be paid, and since the king is not represented, the justices give day to the parties at the octave of Michaelmas 1402, and JI told that he should sue the king. Three further days given, to quindene of Easter 1403.

Postea text: Parties come by attorneys, JI offers the king's letters close to the justices [recited in full in Latin], dated 4 February 1403, stating that JI had sought £80 arrears of this annuity [terms recited in full], but that the abbey was in the hands of administrators and could not be paid. Having heard the letters, the abbot states that JI ought not maintain his action, as after the granting of the annuity, by a document which the abbot shows in court, 9 May 1377, they agreed that if the abbot and convent pay JI £13 6s 8d per year, then the agreement for £26 13s 4d will be cancelled. Between the making of these agreements and the day of JI's original writ, JI was paid this annuity of £13 6s 8d as agreed, at Lesnes in Kent. JI, not acknowledging payment of anything during the said three years, states that the abbot did not pay him the 5m due of this £13 6s 8d annuity due at Easter 1400, according to the terms of the agreement. Enquiry by country, sheriff of Kent to have jury of Lesnes here at octave of Trinity 1403.

Postea text: Parties come by attorney, sheriff said that writ arrived too late, sicut prius to quindene of St John the Baptist. 1403.

Case notes: For details of the problems of the abbey of Lesnes, see VCH Kent, ii, pp.165-7.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 259

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Richard F., Denis (Dionisio) L., Robert G., and John L., executors of the will of John B., claim that John M. owes them £100 on a bond made between himself and JB (dec.), payable at JB's house in the parish and ward of the bond's making. Damages claimed at 100m. Bond shown in court, as well as letters testamentary of JB.

Pleading: JM says that the action against him ought not continue because he was given a release concerning all debts etc. by the late JB. Release shown in court.

Pleading: The plaintiffs say that the release is not of the making of JB and seek inquiry upon the country, and JM seeks likewise. JM states that the release was made at Grafton Regis in Northamptonshire. Order to the sheriff of Northamptonshire to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402. The release is put in the safe keeping of clerk William P.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 278d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: Bishop of Salisbury Richard M. claims that Hugh I. was his bailiff and receiver of monies from his rectory of Hitcham, Suffolk, from Michaelmas 1396 to Michaelmas 1397, and during that time HI had care and administration of the bishop's goods and chattels within that rectory, and all tithes, oblations, etc, and during that time received diverse monies for which a reckoning of account was later held before the bishop's auditors William S., Hugh B., and John G., whereupon HI was found to be 24m in arrears. Damages are claimed at £40.

Pleading: HI says that he does not owe the bishop 24m and places himself upon the country, and bishop RM puts himself likewise. London jury to be here at the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: Sheriff did not send writ, to octave of Martinmas 1403.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 284

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Loan

Pleading: William S. states that on 24 April 1401, in London, Ralph W. borrowed 40s from him, payable at Pentecost then next, but has not re-paid this, to his damage of 40s.

Pleading: RW says that he does not owe WS 40s or any other monies, and offers to make his law. To make this at the octave of St John the Baptist. Pledges of law and for future appearance are named.

Postea text: 1 postea - WS does not come to prosecute his suit and so he and his pledges are amerced, and RW is without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 329d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Kent
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Housebreaking; Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: Roger M. claims that John K., together with John H., came with force and arms and broke RM's close at Tunstall, Kent, and allowed his animals to destroy his grass worth 100s. Damages claimed at £20.

Pleading: JK denies the trespass and puts himself upon the country, and RM puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Kent to have jury here at the octave of Michaelmas 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 336

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: Richard A. claims that on 11 September 1397, and on various occasions between that date and 9 October 1397, Richard B. came with force and arms, broke his house and close at Barnsbury, Middlesex, and carried off goods and chattels worth £40, namely: 40 quarters of beans, 20 quarters of peas, 50 quarters of oats, 12 cartloads of oats in sheaves, 14 cartloads of hay, 12 cartloads of straw, and 6 blankets. Damages are claimed at 100m.

Pleading: RB comes in person and defends etc. Day given at the octave of Michaelmas 1402 in the present form.

Postea text: 1 postea - further day given at quindene of Easter 1403.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 337

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Damages awarded: 3s 4d
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John C. claims that Everard S. owes him 100s on a bond. Damages claimed at £10. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: ES admits that the bond is of his making, and that he is bound in this debt. Order that JC recover the said 100s, and 3s 4d damages. ES committed to the Fleet, until he makes satisfaction to JC concerning the debt and damages. Bond cancelled in court and returned to JE, attorney of JC. Note that the sheriffs of London send here on this day, namely the morrow of St John the Baptist, that before the writ of capias arrived to take ES, ES had been taken in London and committed to Newgate for (here follows a long list of monies ES owes to other men and before whom each judgment was given in the king's court) £7 13s 4d recovered by John N. before Roger E.; £56 16s 8d recovered by William N. before Roger E.; also imprisoned at the suit of John Bonde concerning £6 15s 8d before Roger E.; also detained at the order of Thomas P. lately steward of the royal household of Richard II; 4m 3s 4d recovered by Robert K. before William S.; £12 10s recovered by Simon I. and Robert K. before William S.; also held at the suit of John S. concerning 60s, before William S.; also at the suit of Ralph L. concerning 5m before William T.; £35 recovered by Thomas M. before Thomas W.; also at the suit of John D. concerning 20s before Thomas W.; also at the suit of John S. concerning £10 before William P.; 4m recovered by John G. before John Wadele; also at the suit of John T. in a plea of trespass before William E.; also with John R. at the suit of John T. (this writ copied in in full); also at the suit of Roger W. concerning £22 before William V.

Postea text: postea 1 - ES comes, in the custody of the warden of the Fleet, and offers a release, given by JC and dated 02/06/1404. JC is to be summoned by the sheriff on the morrow of the feast of John the Baptist (25/06/1404) to verify the validity of the release.

Postea text: postea 2 - On 25/06/1404 JC comes and seeks that the release be read and verifies that it is of his making, and so ES is without day concerning JC. However he is remanded in custody for the other debts.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 339d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 6s 8d
Case type: Bond; Contract (general)

Pleading: Henry M. claims that abbess Margaret H. of the Minoresses without Aldgate granted him a life annuity of 50m to be delivered in four equal payments annually to himself or his attorney at St. Paul's Cathedral, London. However, the abbess withdrew payment of the annuity one year prior to his original writ, namely 12/06/1402. Damages claimed at £20. Bond shown in court, bearing the seals of abbess MH and the house.

Pleading: Abbess MH comes and says that she is not able to deny the validity of the bond and debt.

Postea text: Henry is to recover the arrears owed him as much concerning the time preceding the making of his writ as after such time; total arrears being £41 13s 4d plus damages of 6s 8d. The abbess is in mercy.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 356d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Suffolk
Writ type: Trespass (other)
Damages claimed: £60
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: Richard L., executor of the will of Robert Ryseby, Edmund S. and his wife Alice S., herself also an executor of RR, respond to Beatrice R. ( widow of Thomas R.) concerning BR's claims she handed over the manor of Bradfield, Suffolk, to the late RR for a term of 10 years, under the condition that he would not lay waste to the lands, woods, or gardens of Bradfield. However the manor is now in the hands of RR's executors, who have laid waste to the property. They have seized and sold one acre of earth, marl, and potters clay valued at 40d; and also one hall (aulam) worth £20 and one grange worth £10; and also in the wood 40 oak trees worth 20d each; and in the garden 12 fruit trees worth 12d each. Damages are claimed at £60.

Pleading: Executors RL and AS, together with ES, say that that they did not make any of this destruction nor sell the said items etc. and put themselves upon the country, and BR puts herself likewise. Order to the sheriff of Suffolk to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: It can not be denied that the damage has been done etc. but the defendants do not acknowledge it to have been done in their time of possession or to the value claimed, and so the case is respited until the jury can assess the damages etc.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 373d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Bedfordshire
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Henry H. and William H. claim that Stephen B. owes them 100s on a bond. Damages are claimed at £10. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: SB says that the bond ought not hold because he was imprisoned by HH and WH at Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, and hence it was made under duress.

Pleading: HH and WH say that SB was a free man at the time of the making of the bond and seek inquiry upon the country, and SB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Bedfordshire to make a jury come [term omitted].

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 381

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Robert B. claims that Thomas H owes him 44s arrears of rent. RB claims that he demised to TH one messuage with appurtenances in London, parish of St Benet Gracechurch [ward omitted], from Easter 1401 [03/04/1401] for one year next following. TH was to pay RB 44s in four equal payments for this period, but did not pay. Damages are claimed at 100s.

Pleading: TH says that he does not owe RB the said 44s and puts himself upon the country, and RB puts himself likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 381d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (loan); Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Loan; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Robert B. claims that Richard L. owes him 100s arising from 25s arrears of unpaid rents and a 75s loan. RB claims that on 20/10/1396 he demised to RL a quarter messuage with appurtenances in the parish of St. Mary Fenchurch to hold for six years at a rent of 5s per annum [payment terms omitted], of which 25s is now in arrears. Also, RB claims RL owes him a 75s unpaid loan made the same time and place. Damages claimed at 100s.

Pleading: RL comes in his own person and defends etc. Upon this day is given between the parties in Michaelmas term.

Postea text: 1 postea - order to arrest RL because he did not come.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 411d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Suffolk
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 20m
Damages awarded: 20s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Richard W. claims that Richard B. owes him £20 as the unpaid residue of a £25 bond. Damages claimed at 20m. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: RB says that the bond ought not hold because he was imprisoned by RW and others in London, parish of St. Mary le Bow, Cordwainer ward, at the time of the bond's making. Hence, the bond was made under duress.

Pleading: RW says that RB was a free man at the time of the bond's making and seeks inquiry upon the country, and RB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: postea 1 - writ not sent so case forwarded to later in Michaelmas term.

Postea text: postea 2 - RB comes and says that he can not deny the bond or debt, and hence RW is to recover the said £20 plus 20s damages. RB is in mercy.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 411d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Essex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: John K. claims that John S. owes him £20 on a bond. Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JS says that the bond ought not hold because at the time of its making he was imprisoned by JK at Chelmsford, Essex, and thus the bond was made under duress.

Pleading: JK says that JS was a free man at the time of the making of the bond and seeks inquiry upon the country, and JS seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Essex to make a jury come in the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 415

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William F claims that Thomas B. owes him 40s on a bond. Damages are claimed at 100s. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: TB asks that the bond and its endorsements be read out in the court, and the endorsement says that if TB should pay to WF 26s 8d at Christmas 1400 that the bond shall be null and void. TB says that he paid WF this money at the appropriate time at Rugeley, Staffordshire, and hence owes WF nothing etc.

Pleading: WF says that TB did not pay him the said money at the time specified and seeks inquiry upon the country, and TB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Staffordshire to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402. Pledges named for the defendant.

Postea text: 1 postea - the sheriff did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as the morrow of All Souls 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 416d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: The executors of the will of John B. - namely: Richard F., Denis L., Robert G., and John L. - claim that the executor of the will of Thomas B. - Margaret B. - and her husband William B., together with the executors of Margaret B. concerning the will of TB - namely: Richard B. and John K. - owe them £27 on a bond made between TB (dec.) and JB (dec.) during their lives. Damages claimed at £40. Bond shown in court, as well as letters testamentary of JB.

Pleading: WB and MB come and say that MB was never administrator of the goods and chattels of TB, nor was she an executor of his will.

Pleading: The plaintiffs (executors of the will of JB) claim that MB was indeed administrator and executor of TB concerning diverse goods and chattels of TB at [blank space] Sussex. Concerning this, the plaintiffs seek inquiry upon the country, and WB with his wife MB seek likewise. Order to the sheriff of Sussex to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: 4 posteas - all say that the writ was not sent, forwarding the case as far as Trinity term 1404.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 417d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: Joan F. claims that John F. owes her £40 arrears as determined by a reckoning of account held between them on 24 September 1400 concerning diverse monies John F. had received on behalf of Joan F. prior to that time. Damages claimed at 100m.

Pleading: John F. says that he does not owe Joan F. anything and offers his law. Makes his law immediately. Order that Joan F takes nothing, amerced for false claim. John F sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 433

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond); Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Damages awarded: 2s
Costs: 6s 8d
Case type: Bond; Sale of goods

Pleading: John C. claims that Elias B. owes him a total debt of 40s, arising from an unpaid bond of 26s 8d due at the Purification 1400, and the sale of four pigs for 13s 4d. Damages claimed at 40s. Noted that the bond says nothing of where it was made, but JC says it was made at London, parish of St Andrew Holborn, Farringdon Without.

Pleading: EB asks that the bond and its endorsements be read aloud, and the endorsement says that EB was to pay JC 13s 4d in four equal payments, namely: the Purification 1400, Pentecost 1400, St Peter ad Vincula 1400, and All Saints 1400. If he defaulted on any of the stated payments, he would be obliged in 26s 8d. EB says that he paid the said 13s 4d at the times stated, at London, parish of St. Leonard Eastcheap, Bridge ward, and thus does not owe JC the 26s 8d JC claims. Further, EB says that he does not owe JC 13s 4d concerning four pigs, nor any other monies. EB offers to make his law (concerning the pigs). Pledges of law named.

Pleading: JC says that EB owes him 26s 8d per the said bond because he failed to make one of the stated payments, namely that due at the Purification 1400.

Pleading: EB reiterates his claim that this payment was made at London etc. and puts himself upon the country, and JC puts himself likewise.

Postea text: postea 1 - EB does not come to make his law concerning the 13s 4d JC claims he is owed from the sale of four pigs. EB and his pledges of law are in mercy. EB is to recover the said 13s 4d. (damages specified below by jury). Jury concerning the remaining 26s 8d is placed in respite until later in Michaelmas term.

Postea text: postea 2 - case respited as far as the octave of St Martin unless heard before justice Hugh H. on 17/11/1402 at the assize of St. Martin le Grand.

Postea text: postea 3 - case beard at the assize of St. Martin le Grand on 17/11/1402 before justice HH and associate justice David H. The jury says that it is true that EB indeed, did not make his payment on a bond on the Purification of St. Mary 1400 as claimed. But, in fact, EB had made the said payment before the stated feast-day, and so EB is not liable for the 26s 8d as claimed by JC, and JC is in mercy for false claim. Regarding the 13s 4d debt arising for the sale of four pigs, concerning which EB defaulted at law, the jury assesses JC's damages at 2s. Hence JC is to recover 13s 4d plus 2s damages arising from the sale of four pigs to EB, and 6s 8d costs, but regarding the aforesaid bond JC is to recover nothing (and is in mercy for false claim).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 468

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Richard P. and his wife Lucy P., executor of the will of John H., claim that John C. owes them £10 per a bond which he made with JH (dec.). Damages are claimed at £40. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond does not say where it was made but the plaintiffs claim it was made at London, parish of St. Sepulchre, ward of Farringdon Without. The plaintiffs also offer letters testamentary showing LP to be the executor of JH with administration etc.

Pleading: JC says that the action against him ought not continue, because after the making of the said bond he was given a release by JH, forgiving all debts etc. Release shown in court.

Pleading: RP and LP say that the release is not of the making of JH and seek inquiry upon the country. Order to the sheriff of Warwickshire to make a jury come in the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402. Bond given to William P., clerk of the court, for safe keeping.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 497d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Suffolk
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 20s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Richard W. claims that John F. owes him £20 as the unpaid residue of a £25 bond. Damages claimed at £20. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: JF says that the bond ought not hold because he was imprisoned by RW and others in London, parish of St Mary le Bow, ward of Cordwainer Street, at the time of its making, and hence the bond was made under duress.

Pleading: RW says that JF was a free man at the time of the making of the bond and seeks enquiry upon the country, and JF seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: postea 1 - the sheriff did not send the writ so the case is forwarded to later in Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: postea 2 - JF comes and says that he is not able to deny the debt or bond. Therefore, RW is to recover the said £20 plus 20s damages. JF is im mercy.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 507

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: Margaret S. claims that John B. broke into her house in London with force and arms, and carried off her goods and chattels to the value of £20. The goods taken were, namely: 6 gowns lined with lambskins, 2 doublets, 8 pairs of linen sheets, 3 covers with testers, 4 pairs of blankets, 4 brass jars (eneas), 5 plates (patenas), 3 basins, 3 lavers, 2 mazers, 6 silver spoons and other household utensils. Damages claimed at £40.

Pleading: JB says that he is completely innocent and places himself upon the country. Pledges named for the defendant. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 507d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: John G. claims that David H. owes him £10 18s arrears and clear debt as determined by a reckoning of account held between them before auditors John B. and Robert S. Damages claimed at £10.

Pleading: DH says that there was never an accounting before the said auditors concerning the said monies and puts himself upon the country, and John G. puts himself likewise. Pledges named for the defendant. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas 1402.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 507d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Assault

Pleading: Richard C. and Alice C. his wife state that Edmund B. forcibly assaulted Alice on 13 May 1402. Damages are claimed at £10.

Pleading: EB denies force and arms, and places himself upon the country, and RC and AC place themselves likewise. Concerning the charge of assault etc. EB says that he himself was assaulted by AC and that if he did AC any injury it was only in self-defence, and this he is prepared to verify.

Pleading: RC and AC say that EB's story is false etc. and seek inquiry upon the country, and EB seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of London to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402. Pledges are named for the defendant.

Postea text: 1 postea - the sheriff says the writ reached him too late and so the case is forwarded as far as Hilary term 1403.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 535

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John Sabyn, citizen and draper of London, claims that on 10 April 1388 Nicholas Clent and a certain Thomas Weston made a bond with JS in 100s, payable at Pentecost then next. However, they have not paid, to his damage of 100s. Noted that the bond does not say where it was made, but the plaintiff says it was made in London etc.

Pleading: NC asks for the bond and endorsement to be read aloud. The endorsement states that the condition of the bond is such that if John Sabyn, rector of East Warley in Essex, should be instituted etc. into the church of Muggington in Derbyshire by exchange with John Derby, rector of Muggington, by the Nativity of St. John the Baptist 1388, then the bond shall be null and void. NC says that JS, rector, was installed according to the terms of the endorsement.

Pleading: Plaintiff JS says that JS, rector, was not installed into the church of Muggington, and seeks enquiry upon the country, and NC seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Derbyshire etc. Pledges named for defendant.

Postea text: 16 posteas - all say that the sheriff did not send the writ, forwarding the case as far as Michaelmas term 1406.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 545

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: John H. and William W. claim that Andrew Y. owes them 5m debt and clear debt as determined by a reckoning of the account between them. Damages claimed at 100s.

Pleading: AY says that he does not owe the plaintiffs this money etc. and offers his law, to be made in the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402. Pledges of law are named. Also noted that JH and WW put in their place concerning this case a certain Thomas L.

Postea text: postea 1 - AY is essoined and the case forwarded to the morrow of Martinmas.

Postea text: postea 2 - the parties come in the morrow of Martinmas and AY makes his law. The plaintiffs are in mercy for false claim.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 545

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Hamon E. claims that Richard G. owes him £8 17d on a bond. Damages claimed at £10. Bond shown in court.

Pleading: RG says that the bond ought not hold because he was imprisoned, by HE and others at Coventry, at the time of the making of the bond. Hence, RG says that he made the bond under duress.

Pleading: HE says that RG made the bond of his own free will etc. and seeks inquiry upon the country, and RG seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Warwickshire to make a jury come in the octave of Michaelmas 1402. Pledges named for the defendant.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 547d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Hertfordshire
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Assault

Pleading: Roger B. claims that Henry O., together with John F. senior, John F. junior, William P., and William H, assaulted him etc. with force and arms. Damages claimed at £20.

Pleading: HO denies force and arms, and puts himself upon the country, and RB puts himself likewise. Concerning the assault, HO says that RB attacked him and that he was only defending himself.

Pleading: RB reiterates his claim that HO and others came with force and arms and attacked him. RB seeks inquiry upon the country, and HO seeks likewise. Order to the sheriff of Hertfordshire to make a jury come in the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402.

Postea text: 1 postea - the sheriff did not send the writ and so the case is forwarded as far as Hilary term 1403

Case notes: See also related suit on on CP40/567 rot 634d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 555

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £4
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Robert E. claims that Joan G. owes him £4 on a bond. Damages claimed at £4. Bond shown in court. Noted that the bond does not say where it was made, but RE says it was made at Westminster.

Pleading: 'JG comes in her own person and defends the force and tort etc. And upon this the parties are given a day in the octave of Michaelmas term 1402 etc.'

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 571

Term: Trinity 1402
County: Kent
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £100
Damages awarded: 8m
Case type: Contract (general); Debt; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: The Dean and Chapter of St Paul's, London, claim that Abbot Henry H. of Lesnes Abbey owes them 25m arrears arising from an annuity ('pension') of 10m. Stephen G., late bishop of London, and John H., late abbot of Lesnes made an agreement at Lesnes, Kent, at Michaelmas 1332, whereby Bishop SG granted his church of Aveley (Essex, London diocese) to Abbot JH of Lesnes, forever reserving to St. Paul's Cathedral an annuity of 10m. in exchange for a 10m annuity, payable to the dean and chapter in two annual payments, to be made at St. Paul's at Christmas and the Nativity of St John the Baptist equally. Abbot JH obligated against this debt all his goods and chattels in the city and diocese of London etc. Payments of this annuity ceased to be made two and a half years before the making of the writ to bring this present case, namely 24/10/1400 (whence at that time the present Abbot HH was 25m in arrears). Damages claimed at £100.

Pleading: HH comes and presents royal letters patent offering, the abbot claims, protection from litigation etc. as the abbey has been put in the custody of the king's officials. The king's commissioners of custody are named as Thomas C., John N., John S., Thomas S. , Nicholas B., John I., Thomas O., and John H. It is then argued that the writ bringing the present case against Abbot HH is invalid because it should have been directed to those exercising the king's custody over the abbey, and the present writ is recited.

Pleading: The dean and chapter present a document made on 11/04/1403 directing the Abbot to answer their claim, in response to which the abbot can say nothing and a day is given between the parties in the octave of Trinity term 1403.

Postea text: [The remainder of this membrane is badly damaged, but it would seem that the writ of the Dean and Chapter was copied onto the roll and it was subsequently decided that Abbot HH was indeed answerable concerning the said annuity. The total arrears awarded seems to have been 50m, plus damages of 8m.]

Case notes: On 1 February 1402, Henry IV sequestered the abbey of Lesnes and granted its custody to Thomas Chillynden, prior of Christ Church, Canterbury, and others. This was apparently part of a concerted attack by the Commons in Parliament against the granting of corrodies and the use of protections by abbots to escape from their obligations. See VCH, Kent, vol. 2.; CPR 1401-5, p.38; TNA SC 8/22/1095.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 572

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Detention of goods

Pleading: John H., his wife Margaret H. and MH's sister Elizabeth T. claim that John B. detains from them a certain sealed chest containing charters and other documents, particularly a charter by which Margaret B. gave and granted two messuages in Lostwithiel and Penknight (Penkneth) to Robert T. father of MH and ET, and other diverse charters etc. This chest came into the hands of JB at the death of RT, namely on 04/04/1401 at London, parish of St Dunstan (In the West) ward of Farringdon Without, and JB has detained it ever since. Damages claimed at £100.

Pleading: JB says that MH and ET are illegitimate children of RT and so have no claim in the said chest. This he is prepared to verify.

Pleading: MH and ET say that they are the legitimate children of RT. It is decided that this legitimacy is in the hands of the bishop of London and so day is given to the parties in the quindene of Michaelmas term 1402, pending a finding by the bishop of London.

Postea text: 28 posteas - all say that bishop did not send writ (saying if MH and ET are legitimate or not), forwarding the case as far as Easter term 1410.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/566, rot. 572d

Term: Trinity 1402
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Negligence

Pleading: Thomas B. claims that Benedict W. owes him £17 6s 8d because BW was warden of the Marshalsea of the household in Southwark, where a certain Walter N. was to be held until he should make satisfaction to TB concerning a debt. However BW allowed the said WN go free without paying on 12/12/1400. It is recorded that the said WN was brought before the marshal and steward of the household on 16/04/1401 concerning a debt of £16 13s 4d arising from two bonds of £8 6s 8d each which WN claimed were not of his making. The case was put to the country and on 20/04/1401, it was decided that WN had indeed made the said bonds and TB was awarded the debt of £16 13s 4d plus 13s 4d damages (a total of £17 6s 8d). WN was then put into the custody of BW on '12/12/1400' [sic, probable error for 12/12/1401] at London in the parish of St. Swithin, ward of Candlewick Street, where BW let him go at large.

Pleading: BW says that he is not aware of the events that TB has narrated and seeks that the record of the marshal's court should be checked against TB's story.

Pleading: TB says that the record of the marshal's court will match his story etc. and is prepared for the record to be verified. Day is given between the parties in Michaelmas term 1402.

Case notes: Date error in chronology.