CP40/737: Easter term 1445

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 058

Term: Easter 1445
County: Essex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John Rigges states that on 3 August 1442 Matthew Crakebone made bond with him in £14 7s 9d, paying £7 7s 9d at Michaelmas next, and the remaining £7 at All Saints. However, MC has not paid, to his damage of 20m. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: MC granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 102

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (against statute)
Damages claimed: £1000
Case type: Breach of Statute; Contract (service/employment)

Pleading: Stephen Hebbe, citing the terms of the Statute of Labourers, states that on 5 November 1431 he retained John Byllyngdon to serve him as a butler ('pincerne') and chamberlain for four years, but within that term, on 15 December 1434 he left his service without reasonable cause or permission, in contempt of the king, against the form of the ordinance and to his damage of £1000.

Pleading: JB states that he was never retained by SH to serve him in the office and for the period he claims. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff of London to have jury here at octave of Trinity.

Postea text: 2 posteas, sheriff did not send writ, to octave of Hilary 1446.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 102d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Taking of goods

Pleading: John Radeclyff states that on 7 December 1444 Thomas Brabayn and his wife Isabel forcibly took and carried off from Westminster various goods of his, namely one beaver fur, one blue gown and one black hood worth 40s, to his damage of 100s.

Pleading: TB and IB deny responsibility for this trespass as claimed by JR. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity. Pledges named.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 103

Term: Easter 1445
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 10m
Case type: Assault; Taking of goods

Pleading: Richard Cok states that on 1 June 1444 Henry Russell forcibly assaulted him at Islington, and took goods and chattels from him, namely two gold rings, one of which contained an emerald, worth 10m. This was against the peace, and to his damage of 10m.

Pleading: HR denies responsibility for this trespass, as alleged. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Michaelmas. Pledges named.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 105

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John Fauconer states that on 20 October 1432 Geoffrey Cook made bond with him and a certain William Rokesburgh, now deceased, in 10m, but has not paid, to his damage of £10. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: GC states that JF ought not maintain his case, since at Sudborough on 31 May 1433, JF, as JF of Whittlesford, clerk, by a document which he shows in court, released and quitclaimed both him and a certain John Missynden from all personal actions pending between them before that date.

Pleading: JF states that his action should continue, as that release was not of his making. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Northamptonshire to have jury of Sudborough here at Easter five weeks. Document to remain in custody of Henry Fylongley for safe-keeping.

Postea text: Document delivered to William Aston, justice of assize in Northamptonshire. Fylongley quit.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 106

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Taking of goods

Pleading: Thomas Hunte states that on 10 October 1444 William Miller forcibly took goods belonging to him, namely four entire woollen cloths, each of 30 yards, worth £20. This was against the peace, and to his damage of £40.

Pleading: WM denies responsibility for this trespass as claimed. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at [omitted].

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 106d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Housebreaking

Pleading: William Okeborn states that on 10 October 1443 William May forcibly broke into his house in London [parish and ward omitted], against the peace and to his damage of £20.

Pleading: WM denies responsibility for this trespass as claimed. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at [omitted].

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 108

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John Derby states that on 13 May 1441, Matilda, now wife of Odo Vyvyan and formerly wife of Thomas Kendale, when she was a single woman, made bond with him in £60, payable at All Saints' next, but neither Matilda while single, nor OV after their marriage have paid this debt, to his damage of £100. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: OV and MV state that in Cornwall there are places called 'Trenhellick Magna' and 'Trenhellick Parva', but nowhere just called 'Trenhellick', as stated in the original writ. They are prepared to verify this, and seek judgment on the original writ.

Pleading: JD states that his writ should stand, as there is a place in Cornwall just called 'Trenhellick', as the writ states. Parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Cornwall to have jury of the country here at octave of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 109

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Richard Loret and Richard Glaswas of Hereford state that on 27 August 1443 Thomas Kyrkeby made bond with them in £12, but has not paid this, to their damage of 100s. They show the bond in court.

Pleading: TK states that he ought not owe this debt, since the bond was made under the condition that if TK should pay to Thomas Gybbes and John Wilbram, citizens and grocers of London, £6 13s 4d around the feast of All Saints next, then the bond shall have no effect. However, he is a lay man and illiterate, and the bond was read to him in English, including this condition, and he sealed it believing that the bond contained this condition. And since the bond does not now contain this condition, he states that this bond was not of his making. Parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at Easter five weeks.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 116

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £10
Damages awarded: 5s
Costs: 55s
Case type: Housebreaking; Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Taking of goods

Pleading: The chaplains of the chantry of St Anne and St Thomas Martyr in the churchyard of St Paul's Cathedral, called 'Pardonchurchehawe', state that on 26 March 1445 John Tesdale forcibly broke into their house in London and took timber, namely posts, rafters ('trabes'), puncheons and planks ('tabulas') worth 100s, against the peace and to their damage of £10.

Pleading: JT denies force and arms. Both parties place themselves on the country. Concerning the rest, he states that the case should not be maintained, as at Christmas 1442 the chaplains demised to him a messuage with appurtenances in St Martin Ludgate, of which this house is a parcel, to hold from 25 March 1443 for one year, and then for a further seven years, at an annual rent of 6m. Thus at the time of the alleged trespass he was in possession of this house, and entered it and took the timber for use in repairing the house, as he had right to do.

Pleading: The chaplains state that their case should continue, as they made this agreement for one year, and not for the further seven years, as claimed by JT.

Pleading: JT repeats that the property was demised to him for one year, and then for a further seven years, as he claimed. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity.

Postea text: Process continued, jury in respite to quindene of Michaelmas 1445 nisi prius they come before Richard Neuton, chief justice of the Bench, at St Martin le Grand on 2 July 1445. Chaplains come, RN sends record that on that day, before him and John Thornton, parties came, jurors came, said that the chaplains did not demise this property to JT for one year and a further seven years. Damages assigned to the chaplains at 5s, and costs of 15s. Ordered that the chaplains recover this 20s as assigned, and a further 40s in costs assigned by the justices. JT committed to the Fleet.

Postea text: Chaplains acknowledge satisfaction of this debt. JT quit. JT makes fine with the king, in 6s 8d. Pledges named. JT quit from prison.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 118

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Sale of goods

Pleading: John Pedewell, Richard Mayn and Edith his wife, formerly widow of Richard Pedewell, state that on 29 January 1440 Henry Selwode made bond with John Pedewell and Edith, then a widow, in £26 13s 4d, but has not paid, to their damage of £40. They show the bond in court.

Pleading: HS asks to hear the bond and conditions, and these are read in court, the condition being that the bond shall be cancelled if HS pay to John Derker of Middelburg in Zeeland £11 14s of money current in Zeeland for one 'corf' of blue Cologne thread which Richard Pedewell had bought from JD, and if HS make sufficient account with JD for another 'corf' of white Cologne thread received by RP from JD and make the necessary payment, such that JP and EM and the administrators of RP should remain safe from JD and his heirs and executors. This being heard and understood, he states that he paid JD this £11 14s due to JD at the feast of St John the Baptist, and also accounted with JD for the other 'corf' of white thread received by RP, and was found to be in arrears to JD by 12d, which he duly paid to JD before that feast.

Pleading: JP, RN and EN state that HS did not pay JD the £11 14s which JD ought to have been paid at the feast of St John the Baptist aforesaid, as specified in the condition to the bond.

Pleading: HS states that he did pay this £11 14s to JD as required, namely at Wells in Somerset. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff of Somerset to have jury of Wells here at octave of St John the Baptist.

Postea text: Parties came, sheriff did not send writ, sicut prius to Michaelmas one month.

Case notes: Identical cases, different defendants, on rot 118d and rot 119.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 118d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Sale of goods

Pleading: John Pedewell, Richard Mayn and Edith his wife, formerly widow of Richard Pedewell, state that on 29 January 1440 Stephen Merston made bond with John Pedewell and Edith, then a widow, in £26 13s 4d, but has not paid, to their damage of £40. They show the bond in court.

Pleading: SM asks to hear the bond and conditions, and these are read in court, the condition being that the bond shall be cancelled if Henry [Selwode] pay to John Derker of Middelburg in Zeeland £11 14s of money current in Zeeland for one 'corf' of blue Cologne thread which Richard Pedewell had bought from JD, and if Henry make sufficient account with JD for another 'corf' of white Cologne thread received by RP from JD and make the necessary payment, such that JP and EM and the administrators of RP should remain safe from JD and his heirs and executors. This being heard and understood, SM states that HS paid JD this £11 14s due to JD at the feast of St John the Baptist, and also accounted with JD for the other 'corf' of white thread received by RP, and was found to be in arrears to JD by 12d, which he duly paid to JD before that feast.

Pleading: JP, RN and EN state that HS did not pay JD the £11 14s which JD ought to have been paid at the feast of St John the Baptist aforesaid, as specified in the condition to the bond.

Pleading: SM states that HS did pay this £11 14s to JD as required, namely at Wells in Somerset. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff of Somerset to have jury of Wells here at the quindene of Trinity.

Case notes: Identical cases, different defendants, on rot 118 and rot 119.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 119

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Sale of goods

Pleading: John Pedewell, Richard Mayn and Edith his wife, formerly widow of Richard Pedewell, state that on 29 January 1440 Thomas Sholere made bond with John Pedewell and Edith, then a widow, in £26 13s 4d, but has not paid, to their damage of £40. They show the bond in court.

Pleading: TS asks to hear the bond and conditions, and these are read in court, the condition being that the bond shall be cancelled if Henry [Selwode] pay to John Derker of Middelburg in Zeeland £11 14s of money current in Zeeland for one 'corf' of blue Cologne thread which Richard Pedewell had bought from JD, and if Henry make sufficient account with JD for another 'corf' of white Cologne thread received by RP from JD and make the necessary payment, such that JP and EM and the administrators of RP should remain safe from JD and his heirs and executors. This being heard and understood, TS states that HS paid JD this £11 14s due to JD at the feast of St John the Baptist, and also accounted with JD for the other 'corf' of white thread received by RP, and was found to be in arrears to JD by 12d, which he duly paid to JD before that feast.

Pleading: JP, RN and EN state that HS did not pay JD the £11 14s which JD ought to have been paid at the feast of St John the Baptist aforesaid, as specified in the condition to the bond.

Pleading: TS states that HS did pay this £11 14s to JD as required, namely at Wells in Somerset. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff of Somerset to have jury of Wells here at the quindene of Trinity.

Case notes: Identical cases, different defendants, on rot 118 and rot 118d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 121

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (loan)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Loan

Pleading: John Derham states that on 1 May 1444 Richard Fylpot borrowed £10 from him, to be re-paid on request, but he has not done so, to his damage of 20m.

Pleading: RF states that he does not owe this or any money as claimed. He asks to make his law immediately; this is permitted, and he does so. JD amerced for false claim. RF sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 121

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Assault

Pleading: Thomas Nyche states that on 13 September 1444 John Shaket forcibly assaulted him in London, against the peace and to his damage of £20.

Pleading: JS denies responsibility for this trespass as alleged. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity. Pledges named

Postea text: Parties came, sheriff did not send writ, to octave of Michaelmas 1445.

Postea text: TN came, JS did not come, in default. Sheriff did not send writ, to octave of Hilary 1446. Take the mainpernors.

Postea text: TN came, sheriff did not send writ, to quindene of Easter 1446.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 125

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William Wartyr, by attorney [name omitted], states that on 4 October 1433 William Derby made bond with him in £8, but has not paid, to his damage of £10. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: WD states asks to hear the bond, and this is read [transcribed in full]. This states that WD and a certain Martin de Morillon were bound to WW as he claimed. However, having heard this, he says that he should not owe this debt, since on 1 February 1436, by a document which he shows in court, WW released and quitclaimed Morillon from all actions and demands against him made before that date.

Pleading: WW states that this release was not of his making. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Lincolnshire to have jury here at quindene of Trinity. Release to remain in custody of Henry Fylongley, chief king's clerk, for safe-keeping.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 125d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Detention of goods; Safe keeping

Pleading: Robert Hoton and John Selby state that on 6 December 1439 they delivered to Thomas Basset in the church of St Thomas of Acon, London, a certain sealed chest containing various charters and other documents for safe-keeping, to be returned on request. However, he has refused to return it, to their damage of £40.

Pleading: TB states that he has always been prepared to return the chest, and offers to do so in court. Order that they recover the chest in court, and they do so. TB quit, but not amerced, as he came on the first day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 127

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: John Burton and John Stokton, mercers of London, state that on 10 May 1436 John Vele, now deceased, accounted with them before Thomas Covlard and William Bernewey, auditors, for various sums received by JV for them, and was found to be in arrears by £6 3s 11d. However, neither JV in his lifetime, nor his executor Abraham Vele after his death, have paid this, to their damage of 40s.

Pleading: AV granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent of plaintiffs.

Case notes: See also CP 40/738 rot 124d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 127d

Term: Easter 1445
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Detention of goods; Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Safe keeping

Pleading: Thomas Basset was summoned to answer John Heywode on a plea that he deliver a certain chest containing various documents which he unjustly detains. JH states that a certain John Selby was seised in his demesne as of fee of a messuage, 103 acres of land, five acres of meadow and two acres of woodland in North Mimms in Hertfordshire, and also had possession of a chest containing various documents relating to that property. On 10 May 1438, at Westminster, he delivered this sealed chest to TB for safe-keeping, to be returned to JS or whoever he may sell the property to in the meantime. Later, at the feast of the relics (16 July at Westminster) 1439, at Westminster, he sold this property to JH, by which it seemed to JH that he ought to have delivery of the chest. However, TB has refused to deliver it, to his damage of £100.

Pleading: TB states that he does not detain this chest and documents from JH, or any part of them. He offers to make his law, and this is done. JH to take nothing for writ, but is amerced for false claim. TB sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 128d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 40m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John Lok states that on 1 July 1444 William Thorn made bond with him in £46 16s. WT has paid £6 16s of this, but has not paid the remaining £40, to his damage of 40m. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: WT granted licence to imparl to quindene of Trinity, with assent of plaintiff.

Postea text: Further licence to imparl to octave of Michaelmas 1445, with assent.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 130

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond); Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: Katherine, widow and executor of Simon Felbryg, and John Baker, co-executor, were summoned to answer John Spenser on plea that they, with Oliver Groose and John Damme, further co-executors, render to him £11 16s which they unjustly detain. John Spenser states that on 6 June 1421 Simon Felbryg made bond with him in £8 16s, and also, on the same day demised a house in St Giles Cripplegate to him for three years, at an annual rent of 20s, which SF then held for that term. However, neither SF nor his executors have paid this bond or the rent, to a total of £11 16s, and to his damage of £10. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: KF and JB come by attorney and defend force and injury, etc. [no further details recorded].

Case notes: See also CP 40/736 rot 465 (2 cases)

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 136

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Abduction

Pleading: Robert Canon states that in London on 25 October 1444 Thomas Milton and his wife Katherine, together with John Shirwynd, forcibly abducted his servant, Emma Canon, as a result of which he was deprived of her service for six weeks. This was against the peace, and to his damage of 100s.

Pleading: TM and KM deny responsibility for this trespass as claimed by RC. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity.

Pleading: [Further mesne process follows, relating to same charge against John Shirwynd, who did not come. Sheriff to take him. Sheriff did not send writ, sicut prius to same term.]

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 136d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Thomas Canynges states that on 10 February 1442 Nicholas Wolvey made four separate bonds with him, each in £7 10s and totalling £30, but has not paid any of them, to his damage of £10. He shows the bonds in court.

Pleading: NW states that he should not be bound to this debt, as at this time he was imprisoned by TC and his associates in Southwark, and detained there until he made this bond under duress.

Pleading: TC denies this, stating that at the time of the bond NW was not imprisoned, and made the bond freely and not under any duress. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Surrey to have jury of Southwark here at the quindene of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 138

Term: Easter 1445
County: Devon
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Assault

Pleading: John Palmer states that at Exeter on 29 July 1443 Thomas Tregodek ambushed him, intending to kill him, and assaulted and wounded him, against the peace and to his damage of £100.

Pleading: TT denies responsibility for this trespass. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 145

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Robert Mershford, administrator of the goods of John Foweler, deceased, states that on 28 January 1433 Richard Heriot made bond with John Foweler in £20, payable on the vigil of St Peter ad Vincula next. However, he did not pay JF, and nor has he paid him as his administrator, to his damage of £10. He shows the bond in court, as well as the letters of administration dated 26 April 1443, granted to him by William North, commissary general appointed by Master Zenobius Malakyn, Dean of the church of St Mary le Bow during the vacancy in the see of Canterbury.

Pleading: RH states that he should not owe this debt, as by another document dated 30 January 1433 JF released and quitclaimed to RH all actions both real and personal which existed between them before that date

Pleading: RM states that this release was not made of JF. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. RH states that the release was made in the parish of All Hallows, Lombard street ward. Sheriff of London to have jury of that parish here at Easter five weeks.

Postea text: Parties come, sheriff did not send writ, sicut prius to quindene of Trinity 1445.

Case notes: See also CP 40/736 rot 503d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 145d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Domenicus Spynule and Ambrosius Pynello, merchants of Genoa, state that on 9 December 1444 Beligardus de Bardis made bond with them in £50, but has not paid, to their damage of £40. They show the bond in court [cited in full], which obliges the defendant and his company to the debt.

Pleading: BB granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Case notes: See also rot 333d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 214

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Richard Pynchebek states that on 2 December 1439 Robert Bond bought from him two worsted beds called 'hangydbeddys' worth 40s, payable on request, but has not paid, to his damage of 40s.

Pleading: RB states that he does not owe this or any money to RP as claimed. Order that he wager his law at Easter five weeks. Pledges named.

Postea text: RB came, RP did not prosecute his writ. RP and pledges to prosecute amerced. RB sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 303d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Hugh Ashton states that on 19 April 1443 Edward Rothewell made bond with him in 80m, but has not paid, to his damage of 100m. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: ER granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent of HA.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 303d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: John Dalden states that at All Saints (1 November) 1441 William Besyle made bond with him in £12, but has not paid, to his damage of £20. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: WB granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent of JD. Pledges named.

Postea text: 7 further licences to imparl, to quindene of Easter 1447.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 304

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Account
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Reckoning of account

Pleading: William Calcrofte states that John Leventhorp was receiver of his money from 2 February 1442 until Michaelmas 1442, and during that time received £45 from John Gresley, for which he was to render reasonable account when requested. However, he has refused to render this account, to his damage of £100.

Pleading: JL states that this case should cease, since at this time and long before he was receiver-general for Henry, Cardinal Bishop of Winchester, and the other feoffees of Henry V for all castles, lordships and other possessions held by them across England and Wales, while WC was at that time receiver for property in the counties of Northamptonshire, Huntingdonshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, paying all revenues to the feoffees via himself as receiver general, and was to account with him before the auditors and receive an acquittance. He states that on 3 July 1442, in St Thomas the Apostle, London, he accounted with WC for all money received from him between 2 February 1442 and 3 July 1442, before John Walsshe and William Grene, auditors, and allowances of £321 12s were made for these payments separately on his accounts for that 3 July 1442 and the following 6 June (1443), of which this £45 was part.

Pleading: WC states that this £45 was not a parcel of that £321 12s, and seeks judgment and that JL account for this £45.

Pleading: JL states that this £45 was a parcel of this £321 12s. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity.

Postea text: Parties came, sheriff did not send writ, sicut prius to octave of St John the Baptist.

Postea text: Process continued, jury in respite to quindene of Easter 1446 nisi prius they come before Richard Neuton, chief justice of the Bench, at St Martin le Grand on 14 February 1446. JL comes by attorney, RN sends record that on that day parties came by attorney before him and John Danyell, justices, jury came, but after they had retired to consider their verdict and returned, WC did not prosecute his writ. WC to take nothing for his writ, but is amerced for false claim. JL sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 304d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond); Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Bond; Sale of goods

Pleading: Reginald Colyer, prior of St Bartholomews, West Smithfield, London, amerced for many defaults. John Spencer states that William, former prior of St Bartholomew's, and the convent of that house, made bond with him in £152 15s 3d by an indenture which he shows in court, sealed with the common seal of that house and dated in their chapter house at Michaelmas 1431, reciting how they accounted with him in the parish of St Giles, Cripplegate concerning various receipts and purchases of beer, by which they were found to be in arrears to him by this sum. Also, on 20 October 1438, Prior Reginald bought from him 700 casks of beer for a further £141 2½d, payable on request. However, the present prior has not paid either debt, totalling £293 14s 17½d (sic), to his damage of £100.

Pleading: RC granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent of JS.

Pleading: [continued at Trinity 1445, rot 402] The Prior states that by a document which he shows in court, dated at Clapham in Surrey on 23 June 1439, JS acknowledged that he had received £60 from the present prior and convent in full payment of all outstanding arrears, and that the prior and convent were quit of any debts.

Pleading: JS states that he should not cease his action, since he says that the present prior was formerly indebted to him in another 40m beyond the £293 14s 17½d claimed here, and that on the day given in the acquittance the prior paid him that 40m, for which they sealed an acquittance for that 40m, and not in full payment of all the arrears. He says that the document was read to him in English, stating that it acknowledged payment of this 40m, and, believing this, he sealed it. He says that he is a man of little learning, and that this acquittance acknowledging payment of £60 in full payment of all arrears was not of his making. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff of Surrey to have jury of Clapham here at month of Michaelmas. Acquittance to remain in custody of Henry Fylonglegh.

Case notes: Continued in Trinity term (CP 40/738), rot 402. Details taken from two enrolments.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 305d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100m
Case type: Bond; Contract (service/employment)

Pleading: Hugh Ashton states that on 19 April 1443 Henry Stretmen made bond with him in 80m, but has not paid, to his damage of 100m. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: HS states that he should not owe this debt, as, by an agreement between him and HA, he was bound in this 80m under the condition that it would be cancelled if a certain Lawrence Harewode appeared, at Portsmouth before Richard, earl of Salisbury at the muster of John, duke of Somerset as a man at arms, with four captains ('architinentibus') and that they serve the king in the duke's company overseas for half a year. He states that he himself is illiterate, and that the bond was read to him in English containing that condition, and believing this he sealed it and delivered it to HA. And since the bond does not contain this condition, HS states that this bond is not of his making. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at octave of Trinity. Bond to remain in custody of Henry Fylongley for safe-keeping.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 312

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £200
Case type: Detention of goods; Real action / rents / damage to real estate; Safe keeping

Pleading: John Selby states that on 21 July 1442 he delivered to John Haywode for safe-keeping a certain document in which it was recorded that a certain Richard Selby and Robert Waryn, valet of the chamber of Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, released and quit-claimed to Robert Hoton, his heirs and assigns, all rights which they had in a messuage, 103 acres of land, 5 acres of meadow and 2 acres of wood in North Mimms, Hertfordshire. This was to be returned on request, but JH has refused to return it, to his damage of £200.

Pleading: JH granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity. Pledges named for defendant. JS appoints John Bedford as his attorney.

Pleading: [continued on CP 40/739, rot 507 (Michaelmas 1445). Subsequent pleadings damaged and fragmentary.] JH states that, long before the delivery of the document, JS was seised of this property, and enfeoffed Richard [illegible], Robert [lost], Robert Falas and Peter Rede, who in turn enfeoffed John [illegible]. [Rest of pleading incomplete and unclear.]

Pleading: JS, not acknowledging anything said by JH, states that at the time of the delivery of the document, [lost] Selby was seised of this property, and thus seised enfeoffed Richard Selby and Robert Waryn, and a certain Robert Hoton, after which RS and RW released their claim to RH. And he states that he, JS, long after the making of the release, delivered it to JH, on condition that JH should pay to RH or JS £28 6s 8d, and defend all actions on this matter against JS by RH or others, at his own expense. But if he did not do this, then the document should be returned. And JS states that JH did not pay this sum.

Pleading: JH, not acknowledging anything said by JS, states that JS simply handed the document to him, at Westminster, in defence of these tenements, without any of the conditions claimed. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff of Middlesex to have jury of Westminster here at quindene of Hilary.

Postea text: Further licence to imparl, to octave of Michaelmas 1445.

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/739, rot 507 (Michaelmas 1445), although pleadings damaged and partially unclear. For similar case from Hoton on this matter see CP 40/738, rot 550 (Trinity 1445). For another case from Haywode, see CP 40/739, rot 602 (Herts case, not included).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 313

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: John Burton and John Stokton, mercers of London, state that on 24 May 1440 Geoffrey Randolph accounted with them before William Flete and John Notebroun, auditors, for various sums received by GR for them, and was found to be in arrears by £4 11s 14d. However, GR has not paid this, and refuses, to their damage of 100s.

Pleading: GR states that he does not owe this or any money as claimed. He asks that JB and JS be examined on this account according to the recent statute, and that he may wager his law if the case is allowed. They were examined under the statute, and it was ordered that GR wager his law at quindene of Trinity. Pledges named for law, and for defendant's appearance.

Postea text: GR makes essoin to quindene of Michaelmas 1445.

Postea text: GR comes, JB and JS do not prosecute their writ. They and pledges amerced.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 314

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 20s
Costs: £14
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: John Hatherle and Joan, his wife, executrix of the will of John Grace, state that on 8 March 1434 John Squery made bond with John Grace in £39 5s 4d, but did not pay him, and has not paid his executor or her husband, to their damage of £20. They show the bond in court, and the testamentary letters by which they have administration.

Pleading: JS states that he should not be bound to this debt, as at this time he was imprisoned by JG and his associates in Keston in Kent, and detained there until he made this bond under duress.

Pleading: The plaintiffs deny this, stating that at the time of the bond JS was not imprisoned, and made the bond freely and not under any duress. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Kent to have jury of Keston here at the quindene of Trinity.

Postea text: Process continued, jury in respite to quindene of Michaelmas 1446, nisi prius they come before the justices of assize in Kent at Maidstone on 19 July 1446. On this day, parties come, justices send record that on that day, before John Fortescu and Robert Danvers, justices, parties came, some of the jury came, others did not, and many were seen as suspicious and were withdrawn. Jury in respite to morrow of All Souls, and again to octave of Martinmas. On this day parties come, some jurors come, others do not, some suspicious. John and Joan Hatherle state that William Isle, sheriff of Kent, is of their council, and seek writ to empanel jury, and this is granted. Jurors in respite to octave of Hilary 1447.

Postea text: Jury in respite to morrow of Purification. Parties come, jury come, JS challenges the arraignment of the panel of ten. It is returned here that this was begun by Thomas Parker and finished by Thomas Swon, who said that the jurors were arrayed by Robert Berd, coroner, at the naming of the plaintiffs, to favour their case, and this was confirmed by the triers. Therefore panel removed, jury in respite to quindene of Easter, when judges will rule on this.

Postea text: Parties come, justices say that panel was appointed by Berd to favour the plaintiffs, but no fault is attached to the other coroner. Therefore ordered that the other coroner is to have the jury here, and appoint another panel, with no intervention from Berd. Jury in respite to quindene of Trinity 1447.

Postea text: Parties come, jury in respite to quindene of Michaelmas, as did not come.

Postea text: Parties come, jury in respite to morrow of Martinmas. Parties come, jury come, say that JS was free at the time of the making of the bond, and not imprisoned, and made it freely and not under coercion. Damages assigned to plaintiffs at 20s, and costs of £4. Ordered that they recover debt from JS, with damages of 100s assessed by jurors, and another £10 costs assigned by the justices at their request. JS amerced.

Postea text: JS committed to the Fleet until he pays this debt, and also for other reasons returned here by the steward and marshal of the household.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 314d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Robert Elmham states that on 24 December 1442 Robert Stancyawe made bond with him in 68s 6d, but has not paid, to his damage of £10. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: RS granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 315

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: Nicholas Carrewe states that on 26 October 1438 John Wyllyam made bond with him in £20, but has not paid, to his damage of £100. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: JW states that he should not be bound to this debt, as at this time he was imprisoned by NC and his associates at Berry Pomeroy in Devon, and detained there until he made this bond under duress.

Pleading: NC denies this, stating that at the time of the bond JW was not imprisoned, and made the bond freely and not under any duress. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Devon to have jury of Berry Pomeroy here at quindene of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 315d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: William Smyth states that on 10 June 1443 Thomas Page bought from him one tun of red wine for £6, payable on request, but has not paid, to his damage of £20.

Pleading: TP granted licence to imparl to quindene of Trinity.

Pleading: [continued on CP 40/738, rot 309d] TP states that he does not owe this or any money as claimed by WS. Ordered to wager his law at octave of St John the Baptist. Pledges named.

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/738, rot 309d.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 317d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Thomas Kyrkeby states that on 21 October 1443 David Rede bought from him 200 ells of linen cloth for 100s, payable on request, but he has not paid, to his damage of £10

Pleading: DR states that he does not owe TK this or any money as claimed. Ordered that he wager his law at octave of Trinity. Pledges for law named.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 318

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Damages awarded: 6s 8d
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Memorandum that on 4 May this term William Turnour showed the justices a certain bill against John Ferrers, junior, of St Albans, one of the clerks of the bench present in this court, the tenor of which follows. William Turnour sues against John Ferrers on a plea that he render to him 26s 8d, namely that on 12 July 1444 John Ferrers made bond with him in 26s 8d, which he shows in court, but he has not paid, to his damage of £20. Pledges to prosecute named.

Pleading: John Ferrers states that he cannot deny that he owes the debt and that the bond was of his making. Order that WT recover the debt, and damages of 6s 8d assessed by the court. WT amerced.

Case notes: Presumably the fact that the defendant was a court official allowed the case to proceed despite being below the 40s threshold for the court.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 319d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Detinue
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Detention of goods

Pleading: Adam Thurkeld states that at the feast of then Exaltation of the Holy Cross (14 September) 1443 he bought from Thomas Smyth chattels worth £10, namely 300 salted fish, and left them in the custody of TS, to be delivered to him on request. However, TS refuses to hand them over, to his damage of £20.

Pleading: TS states that he has not detained these goods or any part of them from AT as he claims. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at octave of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 322

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Simon Strete states that on 18 May 1439 Thomas Turges, the testator, made four bonds with him, each in 5m, payable on various dates. However, neither TT nor his executor has paid these, to a total of 20m, to his damage of £20. He shows the bonds in court.

Pleading: JH and EH state that EH was never an executor of the will of TT, and never administered any of the goods and chattels owned by him at his death.

Pleading: SS states that EH did administer various goods and chattels formerly of TT as executor of his will, namely in the parish of St Pancras, Cordwainer Street ward, London. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff to have jury of St Pancras parish here at octave of Trinity.

Case notes: See also CP 40/749, rot 405, and CP 40/754, rot 319 for later cases over same debts.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 324

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Walter Percyvale states that on 19 November 1436 John Cassy made bond with him in 6m, but has not paid, to his damage of 100s. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: JC states that in Gloucestershire there are two places called 'Wightfield', namely 'Over Wightfield' and 'Nether Wightfield', but there is no place called or known simply as 'Wightfield', as the writ supposes. Since the writ does not specify which village of 'Wightfield' he was or is living, according to the Statute of Additions, he therefore seeks judgment on the writ.

Pleading: WP states that his writ should not cease, as there is a place in Gloucestershire called simply 'Wightfield' without any additions, as the writ supposes. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Gloucestershire to have jury here at quindene of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 329

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: 100s
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: John Harwe states that on 31 July 1443 John Abbot made four bonds with him, each in 40s, payable at various dates over the next year. However, he has not paid these, to a total of £8, to his damage of 100s. He shows the bonds in court.

Pleading: JA states that he should not be bound to this debt, as at this time he was imprisoned by JH and his associates in St Mary Aldermary, London, and detained there until he made this bond under duress.

Pleading: JH denies this, stating that at the time of the bond JA was not imprisoned, and made the bond freely and not under any duress. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff to have jury of St Mary Aldermary here at quindene of Trinity. JA appoints John Wilcokkes as his attorney.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 333d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £100
Case type: Bond

Pleading: Domenicus Spynule and Ambrosius Pynello, merchants of Genoa, state that on 9 December 1444 Beligardus de Bardis made bond with them in £50, but he has not paid this £40 (sic, presumably error), to their damage of £100. They show the bond in court.

Pleading: Beligardus de Bardis states that Florence is not in England, and that on the day of the original writ of DS and AP he was staying in London, in the parish of St Mary Woolnoth, Langbourn ward, as he will verify, and since the Beligardus named in the writ must be named as of the place where he was staying on or before the date of the original writ, according to the Statute of Additions, he is therefore not named in this writ. He seeks judgment on this writ.

Pleading: Plaintiffs state that they cannot deny this, and seek licence to get a better writ. This is granted. Plaintiffs to take nothing for their writ, but are amerced for false claim. BB sent without day.

Case notes: See also rot 145d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 335d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £40
Damages awarded: 20s
Costs: 113s 4d
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: William Tounlond and Robert Welwyk, executors of the will of Thomas Osbarn, late citizen and merchant of London, state that on 21 November 1439, in St Margaret Lothbury, London, Thomas atte Bregge, now deceased, accounted before John Notbroun and William Myles, auditors, concerning various sums of money received by TB for TO, and was found to be in arrears by £20. However, he did not pay this, and his executors, John Serle, Henry Aleyn and John Hoghlyn, still detain this sum, to their damage of £40. They show in court the testamentary letters of TO, by which they have administration.

Pleading: John Serle, Henry Aleyn and John Hoghlyn granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent.

Pleading: [continued at Michaelmas 1445, rot 123] The executors of TB state that TB paid £10 of this debt to TO during his life, at Woodchurch in Kent. And regarding the other £10, they say that they have fully administered all the goods formerly of TB, and have nothing in their hands, and had nothing on the day of the original writ.

Pleading: The executors of TO state that, on the first £10, they do not have to reply, and they seek judgment and damages. On the other £10, they say that on the day of their original writ, namely 8 [month lost] 23 Henry VI, they did have sufficient goods of TB to pay this debt, namely in St Michael Bassishaw in London. Both parties seek enquiry on the country.

Pleading: The executors of TB state that their plea regarding the first £10 was sufficient, and the other executors have not denied this. They therefore seek that their action be precluded. The justices, wishing to be advised, give day at the octave of Hilary. Order to the sheriff to have jury here at that term.

Postea text: Further licence, to octave of Michaelmas 1445.

Postea text: [CP 40/739, rot 123d] [Long postea, damaged and incomplete. Plaintiffs win case over entire debt of £20. Damages and costs to total of 10m. Acknowledgement of payment of debt and damages on 6 July 1448.]

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/739, rot 123 (Michaelmas 1445).

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 377

Term: Easter 1445
County: Hertfordshire
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: 10m
Case type: Housebreaking; Taking of goods

Pleading: Thomas Hull states that on 12 May 1444 John Whyte forcibly broke into his house in Hertford and took goods worth 40s, namely 4000 roof-tiles, six carts of sand and four quarters of burnt lime, against the peace and to his damage of 10m.

Pleading: John Whyte granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent.

Case notes: See also other case on this rotulet, same defendant, same day, different plaintiff and offence. Also see CP 40/738, rot 105.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 377

Term: Easter 1445
County: Hertfordshire
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Assault

Pleading: John Bybbesworth states that on 12 May 1444 John Whyte assaulted him at Cheshunt, against the peace and to his damage of £20.

Pleading: John Whyte granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent.

Case notes: See also other case on this rotulet, same defendant, same day, different plaintiff and offence.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 402

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Contract (service/employment); Debt

Pleading: William and Agnes Farle state that on 1 November 1433, in London (parish of St Nicholas [Shambles], ward of Farringdon Without [sic, possibly error for Within]) John Lee retained Agnes, while a single woman, to serve him as a spinster for six years, taking 20s per year, and 10s 4d for a gown. She served JL faithfully for this period, but JL has not paid her the £6 10s 4d due to her for this period, and refuses to pay, to their damage of £10.

Pleading: JL granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Pleading: [continued at Trinity 1445, rot 304] JL states that they ought not have their action, since on 6 November 1439 he exonerated Agnes from this service, to which Agnes agreed.

Pleading: WF and AF state that JL did not exonerate Agnes from her service on 6 November 1439 as he claims. All parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Hampshire to have jury of Winchester here at octave of St John the Baptist.

Postea text: JL came, WF and AF did not prosecute their writ. WF and AF and pledges amerced.

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/738 rot 304

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 402d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Thomas Kyrkby states that on 26 June 1438 John Byllynges bought from him 80 ells of linen cloth for 110s, payable on request, but he has not paid, to his damage of £10.

Pleading: JB states that he does not owe this or any money to JK as he claims. Ordered that he wager his law at octave of Trinity. Pledges for law named.

Postea text: TK came, JB made essoin, to quindene of St John the Baptist. Both parties came, JB made his law. TK to take nothing for writ, but amerced for false claim. JB sent without day.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 407

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Christopher Percyvale states that on 20 January 1442 John Broun bought from him 50 ells of linen cloth called 'white Brabant cloth', 50 ells of linen cloth called 'Flemish cloth', 2lb of thread called 'Cologne thread', 6 pieces of lawn and 1lb 3oz of jet ('gette') for £4, payable on request, but he has not paid, to his damage of £20.

Pleading: JB granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Case notes: See also CP 40/738, rot 108

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 409d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £40
Case type: Bond; Imprisonment

Pleading: William Pykeryng and his wife Ella, former wife of John Ingram, executors of the will of JI, state that on 8 January 1431 John Ovy made bond with John Ingram in £20. However he did not pay JI, nor his executors after his death, to their damage of £40. They show the bond in court, as well as the testamentary letters of JI, by which they have administration.

Pleading: John Ovy granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Pleading: [continued on CP 40/738, rot 318d] JO states that he should not be bound to this debt, as at this time he was imprisoned by JI and his associates at Ingham in Norfolk, and detained there until he made this bond under duress.

Pleading: The executors deny this, stating that at the time of the bond JO was not imprisoned, and made the bond freely and not under any duress. All parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Norfolk to have jury of Ingham here at the quindene of Michaelmas.

Case notes: Continued on CP 40/738, rot 318d

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 414d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (other)
Damages claimed: 20m
Case type: Real action / rents / damage to real estate

Pleading: John Lescrop states that on 30 September 1435, in St Gregory by St Paul's, London, he demised at farm to John Cateryk the manor of Barningham with appurtenances, to hold for 6 years, at a rent of £4 per year. JC held the manor for this time, but the rent is in arrears by £12, and JC has refused to pay, to his damage of 20m.

Pleading: JC granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 438d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Reckoning of account

Pleading: William Bedell states that on 21 September 1441 John Fraunceys accounted before Geoffrey Janyn and William Hawkyn, auditors, for various sums of money received by him for WB, and was found to be in arrears by £8. However, JF has refused to pay this sum, to his damage of £10.

Pleading: JF states that he never accounted before these auditors for these sums, as claimed by WB. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at quindene of Trinity. Pledges named.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 456

Term: Easter 1445
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Housebreaking; Trespass (chattels)

Pleading: Nicholas Thomasson states that on 18 May 1442 David Thomas, along with John Deys, broke his closes and houses at Acton and 'Mereford', and destroyed his growing crops and grass to a value of £10 and de-pasturing his animals. This was against the peace, and to his damage of £20.

Pleading: DT denies responsibility for this trespass as claimed by NT. Both parties place themselves on the country. Sheriff to have jury here at octave of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 456d

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Trespass (force and arms)
Damages claimed: £10
Case type: Assault

Pleading: Thomas Kyrk states that on 20 November 1444 Cosso and Beatrice Caro forcibly assaulted him in St Andrew's Holborn, against the peace and to his damage of £10.

Pleading: CC and BC granted licence to imparl to quindene of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 464

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (account)
Damages claimed: 100s
Damages awarded: 6s 8d
Case type: Contract (general); Reckoning of account

Pleading: William Auntrus states that on 10 July 1443 William Furnevale and he accounted for his labour as a tailor in making various clothes for WF and his wife Alice, and it was found that WF owed him 100s. However, WF has not paid this, to his damage of 100s.

Pleading: WF granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity.

Postea text: WA came, WF did not come, in default. Ordered that WA recover the debt of 100s, and damages of 6s 8d. WF amerced.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 464d

Term: Easter 1445
County: Middlesex
Writ type: Debt (bond)
Damages claimed: £20
Case type: Bond

Pleading: William Blyton states that on 2 December 1438 John Wyche made bond with him in £40, but has not paid, to his damage of £20. He shows the bond in court.

Pleading: JW states that he should not owe this debt, as he made this bond following consistent threats of imprisonment and ruin made by WB at Oxford.

Pleading: WB states that this case should continue, as at the time of the bond JW was free and did not make the bond under any duress or threat. Both parties seek enquiry on the country. Sheriff of Oxfordshire to have jury of Oxford here at quindene of Trinity.

Court of Common Pleas, CP 40/737, rot. 466

Term: Easter 1445
County: London
Writ type: Debt (sale of goods)
Damages claimed: 40s
Case type: Sale of goods

Pleading: Henry Brade states that on 17 September 1442 John Prat bought from him one pipe of white wine for 4m, payable on request, but JP has not paid this, to his damage of 40s.

Pleading: JP granted licence to imparl to octave of Trinity, with assent.

Postea text: Parties come, JP states that he does not owe this or any money as claimed. Seeks to make his law immediately, and does so. HB to take nothing for his writ, but is amerced for false claim. JP sent without day.