Chapter XI: Part 11

[Footnote 220.1: [Add. MS. 34,889, f. 99.] This letter was written
before administration had been obtained of John Paston’s will;
presumably therefore in the year in which he died, 1466. It may be
observed, likewise, that in 1467 ‘my lord of Canterbury’ would
probably have been called ‘my lord Cardinal.’]

[Footnote 221.1: Omitted in MS.]

[Footnote 221.2: _of_ repeated in MS.]

630

MARGARET PASTON TO JOHN PASTON[222.1]

_To my right wurchipfull husbond, John Paston, be this deliverd in hast._

[Sidenote: Year uncertain / NOV.]

Ryth worchepfull husbonde, I recomande me to yow. Plesyth yow to weet that Thomas Grene was with me as on Saterday last paste, and let me have knowlage that the scherre schold be as thys day at the Gyld Hall in Norwyche, and he desyiryd me that the swte that ye have ageyns Thomas Jeryng and othyr myth be sesyd as for thys schere; and I seyd that I durste do ryth not there in. And he tolde me that Thomas Jeryng was with yow in Flegge the laste tyme that ye wer ther, and ye seyd to hym that he scholde not be hurte by the swte. And Thomas Grene told me that if the seyd Jeryng and othyrs in the same wryte mad not an end with yow by the nexte schere, the whyche schall be thys day monyth, that he the seyd Thomas Grene wole purchese a new wryte of hys owne coste ayens that daye. I woste not that the scher shuld be so sone when I wrote to yow yowyr laste lettyr. And he remembyryd the trobulus werd [_world_] that is nowe, and also that they wer nowtye felawys that ye suyd, and ther fore he thowte that it war best to let it be respyte at thys tyme, and so they schall be respyth at thys tyme. I have sent to Jaferay Spyrlyng for the bokys that ye sent to me fore, and he seyth that he hathe none there of, for he seyth he lefte hem with yow when he was with yow in the Northe contre; for he seyth ye left hym behynd yow at Lynkcolne. He supposyth they be at Kaster.

Item, my cosyn Crane recomandyth hyr to yow, and prayith yow that ye wole wychesave to spek to Jamys Gresham for to swe ferthe the mater betwyx Dame Margaret Spurdans and hyr; and sche prayith yow at the reverens of God that ye wole tendyr that mater well, for all hyr troste is in yow.

Item, the tenauntys at Sweynysthorp prayid me for to wryte to yow for to pray yow for Goddys sake that ye wole help for to get hem a good baly of the hundyryd that they be in; for they sey that they have be gretly hurte by swyche offyserys as they have had ther be fore tyme. Folk wold fayne in thys contre that Heydon scholde be purveyd for, that he goo not so at large as he dothe, for he is in thys towne nere every wek, and hathe be ever syne ye yd hens. And also it is seyd in thys towne that ye have be good maister thys terme to Yatys, and many be ryth sory ther of, and that he dothe so well as it [is] seyd here that he dothe. It is seyd that he is scapyd all dangerys, and he hathe tak new accionys ageyns hys neyborys, as it is seyd. Othyr tydyngys have we none here but that ye have more pleynly there. And the Blyssyd Trinyte have yow in Hys kepyng, and send yow good sped in all yowyr materys. Wretyn in haste at Norwyche the Monday next be fore Seynt Edmunde the Kynge.

Be yowyr,

M. P.

My modyr wold ryth fayne know how that ye and my brodyr Wyllam wer acordyd, sche wold ryth fayne that all wer well betwene yow.

[Footnote 222.1: [From Paston MSS., B.M.] I find no very
satisfactory evidence touching the date of this letter. Allusion
is made to John Paston having been at Lincoln. The occasion
referred to might have been in 1458, when, as we know by No. 373,
he went into the North as far as Doncaster; or it may have been in
the spring of 1461. (_See_ Nos. 452 and 458.) It is not probable,
however, that this letter was earlier than the latter date, as
there is no appearance at that time of any dispute having arisen
between John Paston and his brother William. On the contrary,
William Paston is in correspondence with his brother in April 1461
(No. 450). On the other hand, if the occasion referred to when
John Paston was at Lincoln was in the spring of 1461, this letter
could hardly have been written in the same year; for it cannot be
supposed that he left books at Caister on his return south, when
Caister was in the possession of the Duke of Norfolk. The date,
however, being so uncertain, I prefer to place this letter at the
end of John Paston’s correspondence rather than assign it
doubtfully to any particular year.]

[[and he desyiryd me _text has “and be”_]]

631

B. D. M. S. TO JOHN PASTON[224.1]

_Be this delyvered to Mastyr John Paston._

I recomaunde me unto you as unknowyn. And as for the wryting I send unto you, the cause why yt was nate endossed was, for the berer ther of knew yow wel i now. And as for youre Cossyn Mary, she ys no longer with us, as a pon Seynt Mathewys Evyn she departyd from me, and went to Awdry Croxeston, and she told me that ye wold pay for her borde ther. But on thyng I let you know; she hathe demenyd her ful symply bothe for youre worship and also for her awne. Ther ys but few within oure plasse but they know how yt is with her, and al by her awne bessynes of her tunge. And I had knowyn as myche at the begynnyng as I have don sythe, I wold not have delt in the mater nat for xl. pound; for I wys she ys no thyng so sadde as I wold she wer.

No more to you at thys tyme, but the Holy Gost have you in His kepyng, and send you youre hertys esse. I pray you hertly that I may sp[e]ke with you.

B. D. M. S.

[Footnote 224.1: [From Fenn, iv. 262.] There is no evidence of the
date either of this or of the four following letters beyond the
fact that this and the two next are addressed to John Paston,
while the two last are addressed to Margaret Paston during her
husband’s life. None of them, therefore, can be later than 1466.]

632

ABSTRACT[224.2]

RICHARD SUTHWELL TO JOHN PASTON, ESQUIRE.

Thanks him for speaking to the Mayor and Recorder for the appearance of certain persons at this last session, as he wrote from Walsingham. Thomas Wolvesby and Colyns make great labor for the poor men’s undoing. Begs him to move the Mayor to have pity, considering their trouble at Walsingham, when they were prisoners.

Thetford, Shere-Thursday.

[Footnote 224.2: [From Paston MSS., B.M.]]

633

ABSTRACT[225.1]

JOHN PASTON, JUNIOR, TO HIS FATHER, JOHN PASTON

Has spoken ‘with Warwyk and Stwkle’ for the place and lands in Arleham. Declined their offer of 6_d._ an acre, they keeping the place in repair; but Stwkle has promised all the lands shall be purveyed for, as for this year. Warwyk this day offered my mother 7_d._ an acre for the lands in Arleham, but I counselled her to hold out for a longer term. Kook will no longer hold the place for 7_d._ or 8_d._ an acre, and will only give 6_d._, if he is to keep it in repair. Has spoken with Dame Alice Weche and Geoffrey Spyrlyng, who have agreed to set a tenant to occupy the lands in dispute till Paston comes home.

St. Martin’s Even.

[Footnote 225.1: [From Paston MSS., B.M.]]

634

ABSTRACT[225.2]

THOMAS GNATYSHALE TO MRS. PASTON

I hope the young man I sent will please ‘my master and you.’ I hope you will not receive him at this time, and when my master comes home refuse him. As for your lands at Sparham, there are not many lands to let. Has inquired at Salle. Master Edward[225.3] is clearly answered of £18 a year and 7_s._ or 8_s._ more. Bryston, Thyrnyng, and Owleton are let, which belong to the manor of Salle. So he is clearly answered twice a year at London, besides the fees, viz., of the receiver 26_s._ 8_d._, of the steward 20_d._, and of the bailliff 26_s._ 8_d._

Sparham, Wednesday before Ascension.

[Footnote 225.2: _Ibid._]

[Footnote 225.3: Probably Edward, son of Robert Mauteby. He was
Margaret Paston’s uncle.]

635

ABSTRACT[225.4]

T. GNATYSHALE TO MRS. PASTON

James and Robert Radclef mean to take away my goods, and I shall be taken if I be at Norwich at next shire. Pray let my master know. I suppose it was by their commandment that my two neat were taken on Saturday last at Lyng, ‘for one that is under bailly of Richmond took hem.’ John Everyton will tell you more. The receipts of the manor of Sparham with costs are £10, 3_s._ 11½_d._ If any man of yours come to Norwich please send me your advice.

(Signed) ‘T. GNAT.’

[Footnote 225.4: [From Paston MSS., B.M.]]

636

ABSTRACT[226.1]

JAMES ARBLASTER TO JOHN PASTON, [SQUIRE][226.2]

John à Berney of Wychyngham wishes to disinherit him of his liberty of faldage in Colyette. Desires the help of one of Paston’s men. As for my Lady of Oxford, ‘I have get you a trusty man against Tuesday or Wednesday next.’

[There is no distinct evidence of the date of this letter, except
that it is probably not later than 1466, when John Paston died,
though it may have been addressed to his younger son John. Compare
Nos. 232, 233, and 234, in vol. ii.]

[Footnote 226.1: [From Paston MSS., B.M.]]

[Footnote 226.2: This designation is added on the address, but is
struck out.]

637

JOHN PASTON’S FUNERAL[226.3]

_Expences paid by Gloys at Norwich the day the Cors was ther and befor._

[Sidenote: 1466]

Fyrste. The iiii. orders of fryers, viii_l._ Item, almesse, ii_s._ vii_d._ Item, to xxiii. susters of Normandys,[226.4] with the gardian eche of them, iiii_d._, and the gardian, viii_d._--viii_s._ Item, in offering on Pentecost Tuesday[226.5] for my master, i_d._; for the herse, xl_s._ For xxiiii. yerdes of brod wythtys for gowns, xxvii_s._ viii_d._; for dyeng of the same, iiii_s._ For settyng on the tents, vi_d._ For xxii. yerdes and iii. quarters of brod wythts, xxxiiii_s._ iii_d._ For grownedyng, iii_s._ iiii_d._ For dyeng, iiii_s._ To xxxviii. prests at the dyryge at Norwyche, when the cors lay ther, xii_s._ viii_d._ To xxxix. schyldern with surplyces within the schurche and without, iii_s._ iiii_d._ To xxvi. clerks with iiii. kepers of the torches, eche of them ii_d._, iii_s._ iiii_d._ To the clerks of St. Peters and St. Stevens for the ryngers ageyn the cors, ii_s._ To the iiii. orders of fryers that rede ageyn the cors----. To the Prioress of Carow, vi_s._ viii_d._ To a maide that came with her, xx_d._ To the ancors [_anchoress ?_] xl_d._ In almesse, xv_s._ To a woman that came from London with the cors to Norwyche, vi_s._ viii[_d_].

_Payments be Gloys and Calle at Bromholme._

Fyrste. To the Prior, be my masters bequest, xl_s._ To ix. monks, eche of them vi_s._ viii_d._, iii_l._ To an other monke, who was of the same place, xx_d._ For brinnyng of the Abbes with the torches, xx_d._ To the Priors boteler for bred, ii_s._ x_d._ For wasshyng of napry, xii_d._ To the boteler for hys reward, xx_d._ To the baker for cccx. eggs, xix_d._ To hym for hys reward, iii_s._ iiii_d._ To xxviii. bedds with ---- of clothys, and wasshyng of the same, v_s._ To ii. men that fyllyd the grave, viii_d._ To brueng of v. kome malte, xx_d._ For ix. pownd candyl, xi_d._ To the clerks of Bromholm, viii_d._ For viii. peces of peuter lost of the Priors, xx_d._ Geven among the men of the bakhouse, xx_d._ To the parisshe schyrche of Bromholm, x_s._ To xii. schyrchys, l_s._ viii_d._ To the prest that cam with the cors from London, iii_s._ iiii_d._ To servytors that awaytyd upon hym by the komawndment of W. Paston, xxi_d._ To Playters for hys offering, iiii_d._ To the vyker of Upton, ii_s._ To the sexton of Bromholm for xxii. crossys geven to Marget and Modeley, _per_ John Paston, iiii_s._ vi_d._ To xiiii. rynggars, vii_s._ To xxiiii. servertors, eche of them iiii_d._, viii_s._ To lxx. servertors, eche of them iii_d._, xvii_s._ vi_d._ Paid to Dawbeny for servertors, vii_s._ For fyshh the day after the enterment, vi_s._ x_d._ For vi. barells bere, xii_s._ For a roundlet of red wine of xv. gallonys, &c., xii_s._ xi_d._ To a hors hyer for iii. days for Sir James, xii_d._ For a quarter malte, v_s._ For iiii. bushels wete, xxxii_d._ For a quarter of otys, ii_s._ viii_d._ For x. kombe malte brueng, xl_d._ For the boord of Rychard Hermer, wrythe, iii. days, and for hys hyer the sayde tyme, xiii_d._ _ob._ For William Yonge, barbor, v. days mete and drynke, and hys hyer the sayde tyme, xvi_d._ For vi. pownd candyl, vii_d._ _ob._ To xii. pore men beryng torches from London to Norfolk be vi. day, i_s._, takyng eche of them on the day iiii_d._, and for iii. dayes in goyng homerward, takynge every day vi_d._ Geven to Martyn Savage and Denschers awaytyng upon my master at London be vii. dayes before that he was caryed, ii_s._ x_d._ For bred bowthe, xxiiii_s._ For vii. barels bere, xvii_s._ vi_d._ For a barel of the grettest assyse, iii_s._ iiii_d._ For iiii. barells of alee, xiii_s._ iiii_d._ For bred and alee for xii. men that bare torches, xiii_d._ _ob._ To a dole at Bromholm, v_l._ xiii_s._ iiii_d._ To William Colens, one of the botelers at Bromholm, xii_d._ To Wate Webster, another boteler, xii_d._ To Greg. Worsteler, one of the porters at Bromholm, iiii_d._ The parson at Mauteby,[228.1] and Sir Thomas Lynes, to the prestes at the deryge at Bromholm, xliii_s._ In almesse, xlvii_s._ vi_d._; more, xx_s._ To the glaser for takyn owte of ii. panys of the wyndows of the schyrche for to late owte the reke of the torches at the deryge, and sowderyng new of the same, xx_d._ [This part of the roll, according to Blomefield, or his continuator, seemed to be written by Gloys, above mentioned, in an indifferent hand. The remainder is in a very neat and curious old hand, which was supposed to be that of Margaret Paston.]

_Vittelles bought by Richard Charles._

_First._ For xxvii. gees, xvii_s._ For xxvii. frankyd gees, vi_s._ viii_d._ lxx. caponnes, xvii_s._ vii_d._ For xxix.[228.2] xvii. chekons, xvi_s._ vi_d._ For x. chekons, x_d._ For xli. pygges, xiii_s._ x_d._ For xlix. calvys, iiii_l._ xiii_s._ iiii_d._ For xxxiiii. lambys, xxvii_s._ ii_d._ For xxii. shep, xxxvii_s._ v_d._ x. nete, iiii_l._ xvi_s._ i_d._ For ii. napronnes to Richard Lynstede, x_d._ For claretts and fawcetts, vi_d._ MCCC. eggs, vi_s._ vi_d._ For xx. galons milk, xx_d._ For viii. galons creme, ii_s._ viii_d._ For iiii. pints of butter, iiii_d._ For i. quarter and ii. bushels of whete mele, vii_s._ x_d._ To the parson of Crostweyt for i. quarter of whete, vi_s._ For xiiii. galons of ale, ii_s._ To a labourer for iii. days, xii_d._ To xxiiii. galons of ale, iiii_s._ For xiii. salt fysshe, iiii_s._ iiii_d._ For the purveying of bred, ale, and fysshe, iii_s._ iiii_d._ To William Reynolds for lodgyng of Master Prowet, the Prior of the White Freres, the parson of Mautby, Sir Thomas Lynds, and other, by ii. nyghtis, vi_d._ For bred, ale, and possets to the same persons, vi_d._ To Herman, fleying bests by iii. days, ii_s._, and to John Foke, by iii. days, xx_d._ For purveying of all the velys, lambes, x. beefins, certain piggs and polaly [_poultry_], xl_d._

BILL OF THE PRIOR OF BROMHOLM.

Memorandum. The Prior toke to bord diverse persons laboryng abought the enterment, begynnyng the Thursday in Pentecost weke, the vi. yere of Kyng Edward the iiiith.

On Thursday I[229.1] find 3 persons who had xii_d._ for their board and hire; on Friday 5 who had xv_d._; on Saturday 8 who had xxiii_d._ On Monday all were employed; and on the day after I find 4 to be allowed for their board iiii_d._ _ob._, and for their hires v_d._,--ix_d._ _ob._ Delivered by the Prior to Richard Charles:--Fyrst, v. quarters of otes, xiii_s._ iiii_d._; v. swyne, xii_s._ vi_d._; ii. bushel of mestlyn, xv_d._; v. pownd of candell, v_d._; xx. quarters of malte, xiii_s._ iiii_d._, and with gryndyng and brewyng, xviii_s._ For a cartfull of hey, iii_s._ iiii_d._ For ii. swyne, v_s._ For ii. bushel otes, viii_d._ For a quarter of herryng, vi_d._ For half a quarter makerell, vii_d._ _ob._ To the parson of St. Peters for his fee of the wax abought the coors, beside ii. candels of i. _lb._ and i. hert candel of a pound, xx_d._ At my masters xxx. day for offeryng, i_d._ Geven to churches and in almes by Gresham, toward Bromholm, v. _marks_. To the clerk of St. Peters of Hungate[230.1] his felaship for ryngyng when the coors was in the church, xii_d._ To Dawbeney for bests and other stuffe for the enterment, xx_l._ To him in gold for to chaunge into small mony for the dole, xl_l._ To W. Pecok, in iii. bags to bere to Bromholm, in copper, the 20th day, xxvi. _marks_. To Medeley for his reward, iiii. _marks_, and the same to Maryot. To Maryot for costs he bare by the way to Bromholm, iii_l._ xii_d._ More to Medeley for mony paid by him, xli_s._ x_d._ To the keper of the inne where myne husband dyed, for his reward, xx_s._ To Paston chirch, x_s._ To Bakton chirch, vi_s._ viii_d._ To Gresham the London carrier, in full payment for the Chaundeler of London, v_l._ xix_s._ iiii_d._ More in almes mony, vi_s._ viii_d._ More for wyne and bere, vii. _marks_. To the parson of St. Peters, vi_s._ viii_d._ For wyne for the seingers when the coors was at Norwich, xx_s._ To Skolehouse in part of his bille for torches and wax made at Bromholm, for to brenne upon the grave, iiii. _marks_. For x. yerds of narow blak for the viker of Dallynge and Robert Gallawey, and for iii. yerds and quarter of brod cloth for Illee, xx_s._ x_d._ To Freton chirch, vi_s._ viii_d._ For a cope called a frogge of worsted for the Prior of Bromholm, xxvi_s._ viii_d._ For bred at the enterment, ix_s._ In almes, viii_s._ iiii_d._ In wyne and spices, l_s._ To Dom. John Loveday for cloth for a ridyng cope for himself, xiiii_s._ ii_d._ To the makyng of Redham Stepill, viii_s._ iiii_d._ To John Orford, wax chandeler, for xii. torches and one candell of i. _lb._, lv_s._ ii_d._ _ob._ To John Dewe for grey lynen cloth and sylk frenge for the hers, vi_l._ xvi_s._ ii_d._ Given to the Austeners at the chapter at the . . . . . . of Yarmouth, lxxv_s._ To Daubeney for to kepe the yere day at Bromholm the first yere after his dethe, viii_l._ ii_s._ iiii_d._ Given at Castor to xxv. howsholders, every houshold iii_d._ the said tyme, vi_s._ iii_d._ To viii. pore men the said tyme, xviii_d._ To the master of the College the said tyme, vi_s._ viii_d._ To Master Clement Felmyngham the said tyme, vi_s._ viii_d._ To viii. prests at Castor the said tyme, ii_s._ viii_d._ To childern in surplices and other pore folk at the said tyme, xiii_d._ To the parson of Hungate, vi_s._ viii_d._ To the said parson for a certeyn[231.1] unto Mighelmesse next after the said yere day, viii_s._ viii_d._ To Skolous, wax chandeler, for makyng of the hers at Bromholm, xxii_l._ ix_s._ viii_d._ To Philip Curson, draper, for cloths, ix_l._ iii_s._ _ob._ To Aubrey, draper, xxxiiii_s._ For a quarter of makerell, xii_d._ To the Prior of Bromholm for malte spent at the enterment, xl_s._ For light kept on the grave, x_s._ Geven at Cristemasse next after the said yereday, to eche of the iiii. orders of friers, x_s._,--xl_s._ To the vyker of Dallyng for bryngyng home of a pardon from Rome, to pray for alle our frends sowles, viii_s._ iiii_d._ For a black gowne to the said viker, viii_s._

[Footnote 226.3: [From Blomefield’s _Norfolk_, vi. 483. Folio
edition, iii. 692.] The original of this document was probably
among the Paston MSS. when Blomefield composed his _History of
Norfolk_, but where it is at present cannot be ascertained. It is
cited by Blomefield, or perhaps by his continuator, Mr. Parkin, as
‘a very long but narrow roll,’ then in his possession. The text,
however, does not seem to be printed entire, as the Editor only
professes to give ‘several particulars therein.’]

[Footnote 226.4: At Norwich.]

[Footnote 226.5: 27th May 1466.]

[Footnote 228.1: Robert Coteler, who was presented to the living
by John Paston in 1465, on the resignation of Thomas Howys.]

[Footnote 228.2: A short blank occurs in Blomefield after ‘xxix.’
and before ‘xvii.’]

[Footnote 229.1: Blomefield or his continuator here speaks in his
own person.]

[Footnote 230.1: A church in Norwich, rebuilt by John Paston in
1460, the advowson having been acquired by him and Margaret, his
wife, in 1458. The date of the rebuilding is engraved in stone on
a buttress by the north door.]

[Footnote 231.1: Masses called ‘certeynes’ are referred to in No.
53 (vol. ii. p. 64).]

[[To Master Clement Felmyngham
_text has “Mastkr”: corrected from Blomefield_]]

638

FASTOLF’S GOODS[231.2]

[Sidenote: 1466]

Declaracio bonorum mobilium Johannis Fastolf militis ad manus Johannis Paston armigeri deveniencium et possidencium tam ex liberacione Thomæ Howys, Rectoris de Pulham, unius executoris dicti militis, quam ex Rapto aliorum hominum serviencium et tenencium suorum. Ac valorem in possessione dominiorum maneriorum terrarum et tenementorum suorum in eorum prima perquisicione per dictum militem solutorum et per heredem dicti Paston clameatorum pro nichilo solvendo, cum custubus edifficacionis eorundem. Et pro quibus omnibus supra specificatis executores dicti militis petiunt de heredibus et executoribus dicti Johannis Paston, solucionem restitucionem ac satisfacionem de dampnis occasione hujusmodi retencionis.

_In primis._

Die octava mensis Novembris anno xxxviij. Regni Regis Henrici Sexti, videlicet tercio die post obitum Johannis Fastolf militis, Thomas Howys clericus, co-executor dicti Johannis Fastolf, deliberavit Johanni Paston armigero de bonis dicti Johannis Fastolf existentibus ad tunc sub salva custodia in abbathia Sancti Benedicti de Hulmo de parte majoris summe in auro, videlicet in nobilibus antiquis boni et justi ponderis ij^ml. cccc. nobilia, precii nobile viij_s._ iiij_d._, faciunt m^{l}_li._, et alia vice in moneta argenti xxiiij_li._ xvij_s._ ij_d._; unde summa

m^{l.}xxiiij_li._ xvij_s._ ij_d._

Item, idem Thomas liberavit Johanni Paston dicto mense Novembris apud Norwicum, de vasis argenti diversarum specierum ad tunc habitarum extra thesauraium dicti militis manerij de Castre, iiij^ml. xxiij. unciarum ponderis Troie, precium uncie ij_s._ x_d._, faciunt v^{c.}lxix_li._ xviij_s._ vj_d._ Et eidem Johanni apud Norwicum alia vice, de vasis argenti, ponderis lvij. unciarum, precium uncie ut supra, vij_li._ iiij_s._ x_d._ Et eidem Johanni alia vice apud dictum Castre liberantur de vasis argenti Cxij. unciarum precium ut supra xv_li._ xvij_s._ iiij_d._; unde summa v^{c.}iiij^{xx.}viij_li._ viij_d._

Item, idem Thomas liberavit eidem Johanni Paston apud Norwicum dicto mense Novembris, in cyphis et vasis auri triati et finati, iij^{xx.}xv. unciarum ponderis Troie, precium uncie xl_s._ Cl_li._

Item, idem Thomas liberavit dicto Johanni ad faciendum certum prestitum comiti de Salysberye de bonis dicti Johannis Fastolf, unde idem Johannes Paston habet sufficientem securitatem et obligacionem Episcopi Norwicensis xxxiij_li._ vj_s._ viij_d._ Et consimili modo liberavit dicto Johanni ad faciendum certum prestitum domino de Fitzwater, unde idem Johannes habet sufficientes securitates, xxxiij_li._ vj_s._ viij_d._ lxvj_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._

Item, dictus Johannes Paston cepit de bonis dicti militis existentibus sub custodia Willelmi Worcetyr, contra agreamentum suum, et tradita per ipsum ad salvo custodiendum Thome Plummer de London scryvaner et Johanni Gressham de eadem capper, videlicet in vasis argenti diversarum specierum m^{l.}viij^{c.}iiij^{xx.}x. unciarum, precium uncie ut supra, CClxviij_li._ v_s._ Et consimiliter cepit cyphum coopertum de puro auro ponderis Troie xxiij. unc’, j. quart. di., precium uncie xl_s._, xlvj_li._ xv_s._ Et similiter cepit unam cathenam auri puri, ponderis Troie xxiij. unc’ et dimidii, precium unc’ ut supra xlvij_li._

CCClxij_li._

Item, idem Johannes Paston cepit consimili modo de bonis dicti militis traditis Willelmo Worcetyr ad custodiendum, dicto mense Novembris, videlicet London, apud domum dicti Thome Plummer, ultra Cxl_li._ per dictum Worcestre solutas pro panno nigro pro liberatis togarum datis erga funeralia dicti militis, et pro serico pro baneretis pictis cum armis, necnon pro vino et speciebus, videlicet viij^{c.}j. nobilia antiqua boni et justi ponderis, precium nobile viij_s._ iiij_d._, iij^{c.}xxxiij_li._ xv_s._ Et liberantur dicto Johanni Paston per manus dicti Thome Howys, London, de moneta tradita in custodia dicti Thome Plummer lxij_li._ xj_s._ iiij_d._; pro toto

CCCiiij^{xx.}xvj_li._ vj_s._ iiij_d._

Item, dictus Johannes Paston cepit consimili modo de Willelmo Worcestre certa notabilia monilia et jocalia auri cum lapidibus preciosis garnizata, videlicet unum monile ditissimum vocata Anglice _a White Rose_ nuper domini ducis Eborum[233.1] cum magno precioso lapide vocato _a poynted dyamant_, qui in prima empcione constabat, ut dicitur iiij^or m^l. marcarum, ac alia duo jocalia nuper dicti domini ducis tradita in plegio quando dictus Johannes Fastolf obligatus fuit pro dicto duce in tribus milibus libris executoribus cardinalis Anglie[233.2] super certis denariis prestitis dicto duci, et unde idem, dominus dux debebat dicto Johanni Fastolf in denariis prestitis CCCClxvj_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._ Et pro aliis justis causis CClxvj_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._ Et predicta tria jocalia per assensum dicti domini ducis sub sigillo armorum in scriptis tradita assignata fuerunt dicto Johanni Fastolf ut bona sua propria ad vendendum et disponendum in recompensacione debiti sui et aliis magnis laboribus et vexacionibus dicti militis pro dicto duce sustentatis et habitis dum modo locum tenens pro Rege fuit in Francia, ac postea in Anglia vij^{c.}xxxiij_li._ vj_s._ viij_d._

Item, predictus Johannes Paston recepit exitus et proficua omnium maneriorum, terrarum et tenementorum dicti militis in comitatibus Norffolk, Suffolk, Essex et Surrie per manus ministrorum et servorum sine consensu executorum dicti militis, diversis annis ex quo obiit, per propinquam estimacionem m^{l.}vj{c.}lxvj_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._

Item, dictus Johannes Paston recepit diversa alia catalla et bestias dicti militis, videlicet equos et palefridos principales suos valoris xxx_li._ ac oves et animalia minuta cubancia in pasturis de Castre et aliis maneriis, videlicet ij^{m.}iiij^{c.}lvj. oves diversorum generum precium capitis xiiij_d._ Cxliij_li._ v_s._ iiij_d._ Et in precio xiij. magnarum bestiarum vj_li._ Et in valore vj^m. cuniculorum apud Warennam de Haylysdon anno quo dictus miles obiit per Warennarios ibidem per propinquam estimacionem assessatos precium m^l. xv_s._, xlv_li._ Similiter in precio vellerum lane ovium de stauro suo apud Haylysdon ante obitum suum remanencium, xxvj_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._ per ipsum recept’ CCl_li._ xviij_s._ viij_d._

Item, idem Johannes Paston recepit apud Castre predictam stuffuram et ordinacionem pro defensione patrie in artilleria, videlicet colubrinas librillas[234.1] diversorum magnitudinum cum cameris in decem carectis oneratis ac in curassys, brigandinis jakkis, salectis, basnetes, habourjonnys, lanceis, crossebowes de calibe [_chalybe_], longbowes, arcubus, sagittis, gonnepowder, gonnestonys, et cetera hujusmodi defensibilia valoris Cl_li._

Item, recepit apud Castre per supervisum dicti Thome Howys in valore librorum pertinencium capelle ac in utenciliis garderobe dicti militis ibidem, videlicet in costeris et lectis de pluma et coopertoria de arras et tapestria ac penulis de martys cum togis necnon utencilia aule camerarum coquine et cetera hujusmodi, ut per billam de particulis patet, Cxxj_li._ vij_s._ iiij_d._ Et simili modo de utenciliis Warderobe et camerarum remanencium apud manerium suum in Suthwerk, valoris xx_li._, Cxlj_li._ vij_s._ iiij_d._

Item, dictus Johannes recepit per manus dicti Thome Howys, Willelmi Paston, Thome Playter, Thome Plummer de London, scryvaner, Christofori Hansson armigeri et Luce Nantron ad diversas vices tam Londoniis quam in Suthwerk, ut patet per billam de parcellis, Ciiij_li._ xj_s._ viij_d._

Item, idem Willelmus Worcestre mense Julii anno v^to regni Regis Edwardi quarti solvit uxori dicti Thome Plumer pro debito dicti Johannis Paston ut pro panno nigro ac prestita facta et liberaciones argenti fact’ suo mandato diversis personis, xxxij_li._

Item, idem Johannes recepit in valore et precio panni lanei nigri coloris per ipsum dati diversis hominibus de affinitate sua propria, ultra Clij_li._ ut in precio panni lanei nigri coloris provisi et dati amicis et servientibus dicti Johannis Fastolf erga funeralia sua tenenda, xl_li._ Et similiter idem Johannes Paston fecit prefatum Thomam Howys exponere et tradere diversis hominibus in regardis et solucionibus circa propria negocia dicti Paston expedienda London’ et alibi xxx_li._ xvj_s._ j_d._ Et consimiliter idem Johannes fecit dictum Thomam exponere et solvere in expensis victualium hospicii tenti apud Castre anno primo quo idem miles obiit, tam circa extraneos et notos supervenientes de affinitate et amicicia sua sine causa apud Castre Maner trahentes ibidem moram inutilem, ad summam iiij^{xx.}x_li._, prout evidenter patebit per certam declaracionem, Clx_li._ xvj_s._ j_d._

Item, ultra predicta bona sic sibi applicata, prefatus Johannes Paston pretendebat habere et possidere, sine racione et scripto autentiquo, omnia dominia, terras et tenementa dicti militis in comitatibus, Norffolk, Suffolk et Norwico, ac sine solucione alicujus summe que constabant dicto militi in prima empcione ultra edifficaciones et repparaciones dictorum maneriorum, ix^{ml.}viij^{c.}_li._

Item, considerandum est quod, ultra dictas perquisiciones, edifficacio manerii de Castre velut fortalicium defensionis patrie constabat in triginta annis vj^{ml.}_li._ Et edifficacio manerii de Haylysdon, cum clausura bosci et warenne, ac edifficacione duarum domorum vocatarum _lez logges_ apud Haylysdon et Drayton, v^{c.}xlviij_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._ Et custus imparcacionis parci in Cotton cum repparacione manerii iiij^{c.}_li._ Et repparacio principalis mesuagii sui in villa de Jernemouth CC_li._ Edifficacio et repparacio tenementorum suorum in civitate Norwici CCxl_li._

vij^{ml.}CCCiiij^{xx.}viij_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._

Item, ultra ista, prefatus Johannes Paston retinet in custodia sua principales evidencias maneriorum dicti militis vocatorum Dedham Netherhall et Dedham Overhall in comitatu Essex; que quidem maneria, in defectu dictarum evidenciarum per ipsum non prosequutorum a tempore obitus dicti militis pro recuperacione eorundem, et hucusque, existunt extra possessionem, in maximum prejudicium defuncti, pro eo quod dictum manerium vocatum Dedham Netherhall constabat dicto militi in prima empcione m^{l.}_li._, et predictum manerium vocatum Dedham Overhall Clx_li._ Et exitus et proficua dictorum maneriorum que ad manus executorum dicti militis medio tempore non devenerunt secundum ratam xl_li._ per annum ascendunt ad CCiiij^{xx.}_li._ Sic in toto,

m^{l.}iiij^c. xl_li._

[Footnote 231.2: [From a MS. in the Tower of Magd. College,
Oxford.] This is a paper drawn up by William Worcester after John
Paston’s death in 1466. The errors in grammar are characteristic
of the writer.]

[Footnote 233.1: Richard, Duke of York, father of Edward IV.]

[Footnote 233.2: Probably Cardinal Beaufort; but it may be
Cardinal Kemp.]

[Footnote 234.1: _colubrinas librillas_, _i.e._ culverins.]

[[Item, predictus Johannes Paston ...
m^{l.}vj{c.}lxvj_li._ xiij_s._ iiij_d._
_“c.” (100) printed as subscript_]]

639

ABSTRACT[236.1]

EXAMINATIONS TOUCHING SIR JOHN FASTOLF’S WILL

[Sidenote: 1466 / MAY and JUNE]

A.D. 1466. The following witnesses were examined secretly and apart on behalf of Sir William Yelverton, ‘deceased,’[236.2] in the house of the treasurer of St. Paul’s Cathedral by John Druell, LL.D.:--

May 17. John Monke _alias_ Smyth.
19. John Dawson and John Gyrdyng.
20. William Boswell, Robert Inglys, Ric. Horne, and Thos.
Pykeryng.
21. Henry Clerke, John Tovy, Thos. Hert, William Shawe, and
Nich. Cherche.
22. Thos. Newton, Th. Spycer, and Thos. Neve.
23. John Rugge, John Clerke, and Rob. Bunche.
June 10. Stephen Scrope.
11. Ric. Fastolf.

I. John Monke, a smith of the parish of St. James, Pokethorpe, in Norwich, illiterate, of free condition, thirty-two years old and over, alleges bribery of witnesses by Paston and Howys, who offered to sell John Russe lands at Leystofte at little more than half their value. Howes made Russe a present of salt, barley, and malt to the value of £20, and promised him a full discharge of his account for goods of the testator in his custody to the value of £200 and over. He paid Robert Cutteler, vicar of Caster, ‘colore cujusdam ultimi _vale_ dicti testatoris prius non debite’ (_sic_), money and corn to the value of 20 marks, and promised to present him to the living of Mawdeby whenever Thomas Howse resigned it. They gave Felmyngham an annuity of 8 marks, and 40s. to a boy who is his servant. They gave Robert Boteler a fee (_feodum_) of 5 marks [a year] for life, and the farm of a close called Mawdeby close, besides some other gifts which are specified. Hence the said John Russe, Rob. Cutteler, Clement Felmyngham, and Rob. Butteler, falsely deposed in answer to the second interrogatory that on the Saturday before the testator’s death they were present in a certain low room (_bassa camera_) in the manor of Caister, where the testator was principally between the hours of 8 and 11 A.M., and that with them were the said John Paston and John Brakley, and no others; for in reality there were present in the chamber with the testator on that day, and especially during those hours, the said Rob. Fitzrauf, Nich. Newman, and John Loer continually, and the said Dan John Davye, Dan Thomas Howys, Friar John Bernard, physician, and Henry Barbour, and several others [at intervals]. Moreover, Cutteler, Felmyngham, and Butteler, said Russe was present on that occasion, whereas both he and Cutteler were in other places. Moreover, bribes were given by Paston and Howes in various forms during the months of January, February, and March 1462[-3], and at other times in the parishes of Caister and Yarmouth, and in the city of London, to Ralph Lampet, brother William Bukenham, and the said Rob. Cutteler. Paston promised to promote Bukenham to the priory of Yarmouth, and also, as a reward for his testimony, to give him 13 acres of the testator’s land in Scroudby and Caister called Isabell, to the use of the prior and convent of Norwich. Hence the testimony of these witnesses was false, that Fastolf, about the beginning of Autumn five years ago, had made to John Paston estate and feoffment and livery of seisin of his manor of Caister, and other lands in Cos. Norf. and Suff., and the city of Norwich, to the use of the said testator while he lived, and afterwards to that of the said John Paston and his heirs; for if any such thing was done (which is not admitted) it was on the 16th October 1457, in the 36th year of Henry VI., after the Autumn of the said year, and not to the use of Paston and his heirs, but to the use of Fastolf himself, and for the accomplishment of his will. Further, the testimony of Russe, Cutteler, Bukenham, Felmyngham, and Butteler was untrue as to the alleged will of Fastolf that John Paston should obtain the King’s license for the foundation of a college at Caister. It was in truth Fastolf’s will that the executors should obtain the King’s license to found a college there of seven Benedictine monks of the same profession as the monastery of St. Benet at Hulme, of whom one should be prior, and of seven poor men, and that they should be endowed out of his lands to the extent of 300 marks a year, all charges deducted, to pray for the soul of Lady Milicent, his wife, his parents and benefactors; and if the executors were unable to obtain this license, they were to give the abbot and convent of St. Benet’s lands and money for the maintenance of six new monks and seven poor men in that monastery with a like object. Further, it is not true as alleged that on Saturday before his death, viz., 3rd Nov., between eight and eleven A.M., the testator openly declared his will with a clear voice in the hearing of bystanders, for he was so ill and weak from want of breath that he was unable to speak distinctly at any time that whole day, especially during the hours above mentioned.

Moreover, bribes were offered by Paston and Howes in May and June 1465, in the parishes of Caister and Yarmouth, and in the city of London, to Thomas Thorald, Robert Lawes, Will. Waterman, John Osbern, John Heydon, Will. Pykeryng, John Symmys, and John Shawe, for their testimony in this matter, viz. that they should have 20s. besides travelling expenses and divers other sums which were offered to them in Paston’s name by Cutteler, vicar of Caister, and Ric. Calle; and John Paston promised the said William Pykeryng that he should recover certain lands in the tenure of his brother John Pykeryng, in Fylby, to the value of 40s. Influenced by these bribes, Thos. Thorald deposed that on the Saturday before Fastolf’s death, Bartholomew Elys and John Davys came to his house in Belton, two miles and more from Yarmouth, about eight A.M., when he was in his grange, and asked him to come with them to divers manors of the said Sir John, to receive certain grain from his farmers; after which they drank in Thorald’s house, and he went with them to Freton, and to the manor called Calcote hall, and other places in Lothynlond until midday. Robert Lawes also deposed that on Friday before Fastolf’s death he went to Becclys, and next day, viz. Saturday, returning homeward (_rediens domorsum_), met on the way the said Bartholomew Elis, John Davy, and Thomas Thorald going to Freton, when Davy called him and bade him tell Thomas Howys or John Rus that on Monday or Tuesday next he would go to Caister and give an account of his stewardship. Afterwards, about two P.M., Lawes came to Caister and told John Rus his business in the absence of Howys. But the said William Waterman, being bribed as aforesaid, falsely declares that on the Saturday before Fastolf’s death Barth. Elys and John Davy came to his house at Gorlyston about seven A.M., and that he went with them to Thorald’s house, and that they went and spoke with Thorald at the grange while he waited for them at the gate. Afterwards they all entered the hall of Thomas Thorald and drank beer together, and all four went together to Calcote-halle and waited there till ten A.M., when Watyrman left the other three and returned home. And about two P.M. Elys and Davy returned and drank beer at Watyrman’s house. But the truth is that Elys and Davy were at Yarmouth that day from seven till past eleven A.M.

Further, John Osberne, Will. Pykerynge, and John Heydon were corrupt witnesses. John Osberne said that on Saturday before the Feast of St. Leonard, when Fastolf was ill of his last illness, the said Osberne, Pykerynge, and Heydon came to Caister to receive certain monies of John Rus for barley sold to him by Osberne; that about eight A.M. they entered the hall of the manor and found Robert Hert and others, servants of Fastolf, sitting at breakfast; and that John Russe immediately came to Osberne and talked to him about the payment. At last Russe took them into the _claustrum_, and leaving them, entered Fastolf’s chamber; then, after remaining two hours and more, returned into the _claustrum_ and delivered the money to Osbern. This testimony was confirmed by Heydon and Pykeryng; but the truth is that Russe that Saturday, from seven till near twelve o’clock (_a principio horæ septimæ usque ad finem horæ undecimæ_), and Robert Hert from seven to ten A.M., were at Yarmouth, three miles off.

Further, John Symmys and John Shawe were corrupt witnesses, the former saying that Robert Hert was present in the said manor-house of Caister at eight A.M. on the said day, and even at nine o’clock at dinner-time (_tempore prandii_), and that he saw the said Robert Hert sitting among Fastolf’s other servants at breakfast (_jentaculum_); and that he (Symmys) and Henry Wynstall, Fastolf’s barber, were occupied together in shoeing horses in the said manor from breakfast-time aforesaid to dinner-time, and that at dinner-time Symmys saw the said Henry sitting in the hall with others; and that on the said Saturday, about eight A.M., and even at noon, Symmys saw John Rus in the hall of the said manor. Also John Shawe deposed that on the Saturday before Fastolf’s death he saw John Rus and Henry Wynstall in the hall of the said manor, both at eight A.M. at breakfast and at dinner at midday, and he also saw Robert Hert, porter at the gate of the manor, at those hours; and that between breakfast and dinner Shawe and Wynstall were occupied along with John Symmys in shoeing Sir John’s horses. But the truth is that both Rus and Hert were absent as above-mentioned, and Wynstall was with Fastolf in his chamber from nine A.M. to half-past ten. Also Symmys, William Pykeryng, Heydon, Osberne, and Lawes were all absent the whole of that Saturday, and certainly between eight and eleven A.M. And notwithstanding that the contrary is alleged against them, John Davy, Barth. Elys, John Bokkyng, John Davy, chaplain, Thos. Upton, Nich. Newman, John Loer, Wm. Eton, Robert Lynne, John Marshall, Wm. Lynne, Henry Wynstall, Robert Hert, and Robert Fitzrauff, gave honest testimony in behalf of Yelverton and Worceter, being men of good repute, sufficiently rich, and well worthy of credit.

Additional exceptions on the part of Yelverton and Worcester to the testimony of John Rus and Clement Felmyngham, showing that Paston had offered to let to the former a tenement in Yarmouth for less than its true value, and had promised the latter 100 marks for the Austin Friars at South-Town,[239.1] which was not bequeathed in Fastolf’s will; also that he had given Master Robert Popy, besides his expenses, 20 marks for his testimony, and remitted to him 10_s._ of the rent of a fishery which was five years in arrear, and that he had also released to him 40 marks of a penalty of 100 marks due by Popy upon a bond; in consequence of which Popy deposed that on the 30th October three years previously,[240.1] John Paston had reported to him at Caister that he had made an agreement with Fastolf by which he was to have all Fastolf’s lands in Norfolk, Suffolk, and the city of Norwich, after his death, paying for the same 4000 marks, and was to found a college in the manor, etc.; on hearing which Popy returned to Fastolf, and related to him what Paston had said to him, and Sir John confirmed it, requesting him to show the same goodwill towards Paston, as he had done to himself. But in truth Fastolf never asserted or confirmed any such thing.

Answers to interrogatories by the same deponent, viz.--1. As to his knowledge of the parties and witnesses.

2. As to the alleged instances of bribery, and the absence of Rus on the day referred to. The latter fact deponent says he knows, because he and Rus lay together in the chamber of Thomas Howys, and on Friday before Fastolf’s death Rus went to Yarmouth to buy victuals, and left with him the key of the chamber, Howys being then at Blowfeld; and Rus remained at Yarmouth all that Friday and the Saturday following, and returned on Sunday.

4. As to the condition of Fastolf on the Saturday before his death. He was so weak for want of breath that he could not speak distinctly; those about him could not hear what he said without inclining their ears to his mouth, and even then they could hardly understand him. And this deponent says he knows, because on Friday and Saturday before his death he was frequently in Sir John’s chamber, and when people spoke to him to comfort him in his illness he only answered by sighs, so that deponent and others could not tell what he meant. Moreover, Sir John was accustomed when in health daily to say certain prayers with his chaplain, but on that day the chaplain said the service alone, while Fastolf lay on his bed and said nothing.

6. As to Russe and Hert being at Yarmouth, he says he heard Thomas Howys that Saturday morning order the latter to take horse and ride thither to get provisions for the household, and he saw him ride out of the manor accordingly about seven A.M., and also saw him return with the provisions about ten A.M. [In the margin here is written ‘Nititur deponere de absencia Hert, sed non probat.’]

7. Knows that Henry Wynstall was absent from the hall of the manor from about nine to half-past ten, for he saw him enter the chamber with his instruments to shave Sir John, and wait there an hour and a half, and he could not have left without deponent seeing him. Moreover, John Symmys did not shoe horses in the manor that Saturday, for deponent had the custody of the forge and kept the keys.

Answers to another set of interrogatories proposed on behalf of Paston and Howes, and here quoted at length, to the following effect, viz.: 1. Where each witness has lived since he was born, and whether he be in the service of the party producing him? 2. As to his knowledge of the witnesses on the other side? 3. What particulars he can give as to any bribery he imputes to them, and what was its special object? 4. By what means he knew it, and by whom he has been asked to give testimony, and whether he has conferred with his fellow-witnesses; whether they have received instructions what to depose; how often he has come up to London to give evidence and returned without being called; and how much he was promised for coming? 5. Each witness is to declare how he knows the facts, and to be charged not to reveal to the others on what subjects he was questioned.

The only point of interest in these replies is that deponent was asked by William Worcester in the city of Norwich on Sunday eight days to give his testimony in the cause. He denies all communication with his fellow-witnesses, &c.

_Note._--The evidence of this first witness runs to five or six
times the length of any other, and we have noted all the material
points in it. Of the depositions of the others we shall not give any
summary, but mention briefly any new statements that seem to be of
interest:--

II. John Dawson, husbandman (_agricultor_), of Blowfeld, where he has been for four years, having formerly lived five years in the manor of Caister, and before that in Cambridge three years, _literatus, liberæ conditionis_, about thirty years old.

His testimony generally agrees with that of Monke, and he says the covenant of Akethorpe was made in the February before Fastolf’s death. Between Christmas and Easter after his death deponent heard Howes in the manor of Caister say to Robert Cutteler the vicar that he should have 6 marks for his labour in giving evidence about Fastolf’s will; and afterwards Howes in his chamber in the said manor paid him 6 marks. Paston also promised him a benefice worth 40 marks. He says, about a month before Fastolf’s death, he heard Howes and Paston frequently repeat publicly in the household the tenor of Sir John Fastolf’s will. About St. John Baptist’s day last he was at Yarmouth, and heard John Symmys and John Shawe say they were hired by Paston and Howes to give evidence in the proving of Fastolf’s will.

III. John Gyrdynge of Fretenham, where he has lived four years; before which time he lived with the Prior of St. Faith’s two years, before that in the manor of Caster four years, before that with John Emeryngale of Wroxham two years, and before that in Norwich as an apprentice with Henry Toke five years; a cook, illiterate and of free condition, thirty-two years old and over.[241.1] Agrees with the evidence of corruption against Rus and others. Was present in Fastolf’s room that Saturday forenoon, and saw the two chaplains celebrating mass. H. Wynstall the barber was present till ten A.M.

IV. William Boswell of Thetford, who was four years with Friar Bracley, &c., _literatus_, of free condition, thirty years old and more. Heard Howys, Paston, and Rus frequently confer at Caister about the sale of a house in Yarmouth, which Howys, at the request of Paston, at length granted to Rus at £20 less than its value, to the end that Rus might bear witness in their favour and in the proving of Fastolf’s will. [Here occurs a marginal note by another hand, ‘Male sonat. Quod alius consensit non probatur.’ At the head of this deposition also it is said that this witness has been proved corrupt.]

V. Robert Inglys of Lodon, gentleman, who has lived there two years, and before that in the parish of Hopton three years, before that with Henry None, Esq., for more than a year, before that with Sir John Fastolf two years, before that with the Abbot of Langley two years, and before that in Hopton with his father; illiterate, and of free condition, thirty years old and more.

VI. Richard Horne of Brundall, Norwich diocese, husbandman (_agricultor_), who has lived there four years, and before that with Thomas Howys six years, and before that in the parish of St. George, Southwark, three years; illiterate, of free condition, twenty-six years old.

VII. Thomas Pykeryng of Wroxham, Norwich diocese, who has been a schoolmaster at Norwich and Aylesham, and is now clerk to Robert Norwich, steward of the Abbot of St. Benet’s, Hulme.

VIII. Henry Clerke of Blowfeld, husbandman (_agricultor_), once in the service of Sir John Fastolf, illiterate, twenty-eight years old, of free condition. Says that on the Saturday before Fastolf’s death Howys sent him and John Shawe to Yarmouth about seven A.M., with a cart-load of malt to one named Chirche; that they arrived about eight, and were spoken to by John Rus and Robert Cutteler in the market-place; that they waited with their cart till two P.M., when deponent took leave of Russ and Cutteler in the street, having repeatedly seen them there in the interval. Also that at eight and nine A.M. he saw Robert Hert in Yarmouth, who soon after his arrival delivered him a sack containing meat, bought, as he said, by Rus for Fastolf’s household. He says also that between eight and nine he spoke with the said John Symmys, William Pykeryng, and John Osbern in Yarmouth.

Marginal notes are appended to the above statements, affirming that bribery had been proved against this witness by four others, and that he stood alone in his testimony.

IX. John Tovy of Caister, where he has lived ever since he was born, _agricultor, literatus_, of free condition, twenty-four years old and more; cannot depose of his own knowledge to the bribery of John Rus and the others. He says John Rus was not present in the manor on the said Saturday, having to be at Yarmouth to provide victuals for the household. About eight A.M. witness conveyed to the said manor some linen, which his mother had washed, for she was Sir John’s washerwoman, and waited there, sometimes in the hall and sometimes in Sir John’s chamber, till after midday, but did not see John Rus or any of the others named, as he would have done if they had been present.

X. Thomas Hert of Caister, _agricultor_, who has lived there from his birth, illiterate, of free condition, twenty-three years old. Cannot depose to bribery except from hearsay. Was sent to Caister by his father on the Saturday before Fastolf’s death with capons to be sold to John Rus, purveyor of victuals for the household, but on inquiring for him, found he was absent, and delivered the capons to Sir Thomas Howes. Waited till nine A.M. and saw neither Rus, Cutteler, Boteler, nor Robert Hert, but was told Rus was at Yarmouth, and Boteler sick in his chamber. John Symmys had nothing to do with the shoeing of Sir John’s horses that day. Was asked to bear witness in this cause a fortnight ago by Sir William Yelverton’s servant at Caister.

XI. William Shave, roper of Yarmouth, illiterate, of free condition, fifty-eight years old. On the Saturday before Fastolf’s death, was at the house of John Balle, at the sign of the Cock, in Yarmouth, in a parlour near the public street, when Sir Thomas Howes informed John Rus, there present, that he had been desired by John Paston to remit to him £20 of the price of a house sold to Rus by the said Thomas, and thereupon he remitted to him the said £20 and 5 marks, in which he was bound to Sir John Fastolf. He also promised him the lands of Akethorp Hall for 40 marks less than any other, provided he would favour the intention of Howes and Paston. [It is remarked in the margin that witness does not say what intention.] William Lynde, a servant of Sir John Fastolf, was present, besides others. He saw Russ and Cutteler that Saturday at Yarmouth, between nine and twelve A.M., and spoke with them and drank in the house of Thomas Lounde. As to Thomas Torald, witness was at Yarmouth one Saturday, when he heard Robert Cutteler and Torald conversing; and the former told the latter that Sir Thomas Howes loved him well, and that John Paston could do him much good, and in the name of Paston and Howes he promised Torald 20_s._ for his labour, besides expenses, if he would depose for them. Knows that on the Saturday before Fastolf’s death Bartholomew Elys was in Yarmouth from half-past eight to eleven A.M., for he and witness bought fish called roches together, sold some, and divided others in Elys’s house. That day he saw John Rus in Yarmouth several times every hour from seven to eleven A.M., for he was in the market-place all that time on his business, and at vespers he saw John Rus in the parish church of the said town. Next day, Sunday, he also saw him there at matins and at mass.