more than a century earlier. In reference to the former history of Bridgwater, this is a most interesting deed.

Release by Roger the Chaplain, son of William Weaver [Textoris] of Bruggewater, to John Halewey, son of John, of his half burgage situate without the West Gate, on the east side as you go to Kerdesbury. Witnesses, John Boye and Walter Large, the then Provosts, John Cromle and Nicholas Canoun, the then Bedels, Symon atte Forde, Adam de Churchyard, and others; 16th Edward II. The seal, of vesica-shape, is perfect, representing the Virgin and Child, with legend. Grant by John Crouke, alias Hostiler, to John Warde, son of Richard, of Bruggewater, of a yearly rent of one rose, which Editha Kykke, relict of Walter, was wont to pay him for a tenement in the street called "Dameyete,' between the tenement called Georgesyn" and that formerly belonging to Dirst; 22nd Richard II. The seal is perfect, representing the Virgin and Child, without a legend.

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Grant by Lucy, daughter and heir of Juliana Horloc, to Roger the Chaplain, son of William Weaver [or Webbe, "Textoris"], of her half burgage without the West Gate, as you go to Kerdesbury. Witnesses, John Bore and John Donsterre the Younger, the then Provosts, Simon de la Forde, Adam de Churchyard; 11th Edward II. The seal, of vesica-shape, with a fleur-delis, is perfect, but the impression is indistinct.

Grant by Henry de Leue to Adam Eboth and Sabina, his wife, of a tenement in the street called "Orlouestret,' between the tenement of William Hughet and that formerly of Robert le Spicer; 12th Edward III. The seal is perfect.

A parchment deed of defeasance, in French, made by John Cole, William Thomere, John Sydenham of Bruggewater, Hywe Mareys, John Broke, and Richard Fornour; who state that whereas Umfrey Plomere, John Lomb, Thomas Eremyte, John Sely, William Blacche, Geffrey Bokbyndere, William Tannere, Richard Warde, Richard Okerforde, Robert Soweys, William Sompnour, Richard Saltere, John Pollard, Walter Brokhalle, John Horloc, Thomas Parkere, Thomas Skydefa, and the rest of the commonalty of B., were bound to them by an obligation to pay 200 pounds at a certain day and place; still, if they shall take charge, without loss or damage to Thomas Lyons and John Fyteltone, executors of the will of Monsire John Trevet, knight, of the completion of the new bridge, after 300 marks, devised by the said John Trevet, have been expended thereon, then the said obligation shall be of no effect. In witness whereof, the parties above-named have interchangeably thereto set their seals, 26th March, 18 Richard II. 17 small seals have been attached thereto, by thongs, six of which seals are now broken off. Last of all, a large seal has been attached, apparently that of the then lord of the fee, with the castle and bridge, or wharf, upon it, one half of which is broken off. This impression has been since adopted for the Corporation seal (probably at the close of the reign of Henry VI.), the ancient seal of the Provosts (which has been already described) having been long since abandoned. The original great bridge at Bridgwater was built, either partly or principally, by Sir Thomas Trivet, in the reign of Edward I. The Sir John Trevet above-named, who left 300 marks for the repair of it, was no doubt a member of the same family. There seems some reason to believe that the bridge built by Sir Thomas Trivet was altogether in a different locality from that which gave its name to the place, as being built by Walter de Douay. The latter in all probability led direct from the castle (built at a later date) into the Castle Field, on the opposite side of the river; while the bridge built by Sir Thomas Trivet, "for the use of "the town," and not of the castle, would lie considerably to the south of it.

The counterpart of the above deed of defeasance, with the seals of the six obligees, Cole, Thomere, Sydenham, Mareys, Broke, and Fornour, attached.

A general Pardon, under the Great Seal, to William Gosse, William Gascoigne, and Richard Dyut, Wardens, or Stewards, of the Merchants' Guild of B., in behalf of that Guild; 16th December, 4th Henry (IVth, apparently). Only a fragment of the seal is left.

Charter of Inspeximus and Confirmation, of Henry VII., under the Great Seal, reciting a Charter of the 8th of Edward IV., wherein it is stated that, owing to its then state of decay, certain liberties are granted to the town of B., with liberty to elect a Steward, or Recorder. In the Charter of Edward, the then enlarged boundaries of the town are described. The silk cords are still attached to the Charter, but the Great Seal is gone.

A small parchment deed, with very minute writing, being an indenture made between the Mayor and bur

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gesses of B., as overseers of, and collectors for, the poor, and Johanna Flynge, aged 10 years, daughter of John Flynge, a pauper and destitute of alms," of the one part, and William Dennys of B., and Margaret, his wife, of the other; certifying that the said Johanna has put herself apprentice to them, "in domestic knowledge "and in other matters, to the age of 21 years," she not to marry in the meantime, or waste their goods. They covenant to teach her, and to maintain her in food and clothing, without rigour or castigation, or inconvenience to her body; 5th James I. The seals originally attached, of Dennys and his wife, are lost.

A parchment deed of early date, whereby William de Ferndone grants to Richard de Godynelande, son of Robert, one half of his messuage in the vill of Bruges ["villa de Bruges," a name by which Bridgwater was frequently called in the thirteenth century], situate between the house of Robert de Karley and that of Stephen the Dyer, being the whole of the sollar, with one half of the bed-chamber (thalamus) and of the curtilage, in free marriage with Dionisia, his daughter, and, after the decease of himself and his wife, the whole of the messuage: to hold to them and the heirs of their bodies; and if it so happen-which be it forbidden [quod absit]-that the said Richard shall not beget heirs of the said Dionisia, then after the death of Richard the messuage shall revert to the grantor and his heirs. The said Richard is to render 6 pence [the burgage fee] to the lord of the fee, for all demands. He gives also to the said Richard half of his ferm which he holds of Sir Hugh de Bahurste, 2 oxen 8 marks in value, 2 cows 10 shillings in value, and 2 gowns, the value of one gown [roba] being 14 shillings; as also, one half of his utensils, and, after the decease of himself and his wife Albreda, the whole of them. Witnesses, Master Daniel de Wemedone, James the then Vicar of Bruges, Henry the then Constable, William de Kentelerbe, Roger Brun, William de Euernere, William Basset, Albyn de Godynelande, Robert Chaplain of Dorchester, and others. Given at Bruges-walter, A.D. 1245, the 4th of the Ides of May, being the day of Saints Nereus, Achilleus, and Pancratius [12 May]. The seal is nearly perfect, with the legend-" Sigill. "Will. de Farndun."

Conveyance by Ralph Hilting of Brugwalter (Brugwalteri) to Eustace Hynnoc of a stall, situate in the King's great highway (vicus regalis), between the stall of Mauger the Butcher (macerarius) and that of Roger Hilting, he rendering yearly 12 pence to the lord of the said stall. For this grant and confirmation, the said Eustace has given to him 20 shillings, and to Alice, his wife, a pig 2 shillings in value, "to have her "consent beforehand" (ad concessum ipsius habendum præ manibus). Witnesses, Robert de Kentelesbere, Walter Orlof, William Taylor (Cissor), Ralph le Bole, Clerk, and many others. Without date given, but probably early in the reign of Edward I. The seal is perfect, being of oblong form, with an ornamented fleur-de-lis.

Grant by Roger le Wrenche to Nicholas Vincent, of Estcote, and Richard, son of Walter Remaire, of 2 parts of a half burgage, situate in Frerenstrete, between his own tenement and that of William le Proctor. Witnesses, Thomas de Borgoyne, Philip Crese Erl, John de Dunsterre, Richard Berse, Roger Persun, Clerk, Robert le Large, and others; 10th Edward II. The seal, of oblong form, is perfect. Philip Crese Erl, a man who to all appearance enjoyed the remarkable distinction of either a double Christain name, or a double surname, is also mentioned in an account for making a new bell for the Church of Bridgwater, belonging to this reign.

Grant by the Burgesses of Bruggewater to Richard Maidus, that he may build over the West Gate, with all the vacant place belonging to it, towards the east, "unto the corner of the house which formerly belonged "to Roger le Mortymere," in such way as shall be most for his advantage, and for the effectual defence of the town. The said Richard, and his heirs or assigns, "so often as shall be needed for war or for the army,' shall cause the said building to be evacuated, and permit the forces of the vill to enter for its defence, without molestation. Witnesses, Thomas de Mers, Seneschal (or Steward) of the Lady Matilda de Mortimer, "by whose assent and ordinance the aforesaid "building and livery were ordained," Sir Walter de Stockelynche, Vicar of the church of the said vill, John Evesone, David le Palmere, then Provost, Walter Jacob, John le King, then Provost, Hugh Godwyne, William le Large, John Russel, and others. "Given at Brugges"walter (Bruggeswalteri) the Day of St. John before

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"Port Latin," 27th Edward I. The seal of the Provosts of Bridgwater, already described, is attached; but it is in a mutilated state.

An attestation, in English, made by William Tredewyn, priest of North Newton, "withyn the Parish of "Northe Pedertone," in Somerset, probably of the early part of the reign of Henry VI. He says that in his youth he was "contynually abidinge yn the Vicarage "of Briggewater, with one Sir John Wheler, Parishe "Prest of the said towne, to lerne reede and syng "with the seid Sir John Wheler, at the commandement "of Mr. Sir John Colswayne, then there Vyker of the "seid towne," and that he is "nowe of age L. (fifty) "wynter." Of no actual importance, but a good specimen of the early English of the locality.

A bond, in Latin, entered into by Nicholas Somering, of Briggewater, master of a certain craer [a small ship, so called], hamed Le Marie de Briggewater." He acknowledges that he received from Oliver Mawliverer, knight, at Bordeaux, 6 tuns of wine. The vessel being wrecked, he received 60 francs as salvage, which he had spent on provisions and rigging, in refitting the craier. He now binds the ship and its owners for repayment of the said sum: 4th Henry IV. The small seal is still attached to the bond.

Conveyance by Robert Blake, to about 12 persons, among them, Humphrey Blake, his son, of property in Bridgwater, the Three Crowns in Estover, and lands at Purytone Hill, 18th Elizabeth. The nature of the trust does not appear on the face of the deed. Humphrey was the father of Robert Blake, the Admiral.

Charter of Henry VIII., in the 30th year of his reign, confirmatory of Letters Patent granted to the town of B. in the 45th of Edward III., reciting and confirming a Charter granted to the town in the 11th year of Edward II.; which itself confirms the Charter granted by King John to William Briwere, that B. may be a free burgh. This last Charter is probably no longer in existence. Henry VIII., in his Charter, is entitled"In terra supremum caput Anglicanæ Ecclesiæ." The great seal, attached, is in fine condition.

A deed, dated 16th October 1658, conveying property in the town from William Francis to Benjamin Blake and other prominent inhabitants. He was a younger brother of the Admiral.

Charter of Henry VIII., in the 2nd year of his reign, confirming the Charters of Edward III. and II., and, by their Inspeximus, that of John, above-mentioned.

Indenture, in Latin, made between Richard Godbeare, Mayor, Robert Buckinge and Alexander Jones, Aldermen, Justices of the peace, and the Burgesses of the borough of B., Hugh Grenslade, 8 years of age, son of, and destitute of alms, and Robert Hallam, shoemaker. With the assent of the overseers of the poor, the said Hugh has put himself apprentice to Robert Hallam, till he reaches the age of 24 years; and he is not to contract matrimony in the meanwhile. The consideration of Robert is 40 shillings, paid by the overseers: 42nd Elizabeth.

Grant by the Burgesses of B. to Faramus the Dyer, of a burgage, being the one which Richard Wolf (Lupus) lately held, in the North Street, between the house of William de Kentelesbere and that of Walter Orlof; which burgage William, formerly Vicar of Bruges, left to God and the service of the Blessed Virgin Mary in that town, at a yearly rent of 10 silver pennies. Witnesses, William de Kentelesbere, Walter Orlof, Robert Wilde, clerk, William Brun, Robert Taylor (Cissor), Henry Dyer; without date, but belonging to the reign of Edward I. The seal is broken, but apparently has a legend in reference to "Beata Maria," their church being that of St. Mary. This was the seal probably of the burgesses, as impropriators, or lay rectors, of the church. The writing of this deed is very fine. The "North Street" here named, no doubt, changed its name for that of "Orlof," or "Orlew," Street, from the fact of the house of Walter Orlof having been situate in it. The suggestion made in the former Report (p. 99) that it took its name from being originally the "Orfaire," or Goldsmiths' Row, of the town, must therefore be considered as untenable; though, as there mentioned, it was called "the Orfaire," at least in one instance.

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charged for, for "backing" the river sides, or, in other words, for keeping the mud together, of which it is formed, and so giving it the necessary consistency: a practice which is still kept up. The following items are payments to Members of Parliament for the Borough,Item, payd to William Gascoyne vis. viiid." " Item, delyvered to John Pitte to Parlement ward xxs." Charter of Confirmation of King Edward II. of the Charter granted to William Briwere, as already mentioned, by King John. A small thin parchment document, in tatters, with a small fragment of the seal. About a fourth part of the document is gone; but from the various later Charters of Inspeximus its contents are known.

Grant by Matildis de Mortimer, in the full power of her widowhood, to William de le Large, burgess of Bruggewater, of a burgage there, which Philip Woderoue held, "situate between our castle and the tenement "of William Fayrchild," at a yearly rent of three shillings. Witnesses, Sir Geoffrey de Balecote, Thomas de Mors, John Russel, Roger de Moltone, Hugh Godwyne, Richard Wild, Jordan le Parmenter, John de Aure, Philip le Kyng, and others. "Given at Kynges"lane, on Friday before the Feast of St. Barnabas," 26th of Edward I. Her seal, of oblong form, is attached, and in good condition. There is still a "King Street,' near the site of the old castle, where Matildis probably may have resided, in her widowhood.

Letters Patent, or Charter of Inspeximus and Confirmation, granted in the 45th year of the reign of Edward III.; confirming his father's Charter, which confirms that granted to William Briwere by King John, already mentioned. A fragment only of the Great Seal survives.

Probate Copy, of the Archdeaconry of Taunton, of the will of John de Mille, of B., in Latin. He leaves tenements to his wife Isota, and to his daughters, Isota and Lucy. He also leaves large legacies of cloth, "mixed," a robe of burel, a tunic of white bluet, and a tunic of black bluet. To his nurse he leaves 3 ells of russet cloth; and to his nurse's son 12d. To every godson of his, or son "raised from the holy font," he leaves one penny; to the works of the church at B. 12 pence; to the Mass before the Cross, in the church, 12 pence. Several localities in the town are named. Dated the Saturday after St. John Port Latin, A.D. 1310. The seal of the Archdeaconry, attached, is in fair condition.

Grant by William de Wemedone, son of Daniel de Edmestone, to Peter de Bruges, Rector of the church of St. Brigid, of his tenement in Crowpulle (now Crowpill, near Bridgwater), and other hereditaments, reserving a yearly rent of one rose at the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. Witnesses, Hugh de Popham, Robert de Burty, Walter de Sydenham, Hugh Godwyne, William le Large, Robert Bakhouse (de Pistrino), William Clito. Without date, but belonging to the reign of Edward I. The seal is lost. St. Brigid, or Bride's, above-mentioned, was probably an early Chapelry in the

town.

Conveyance by John atte Churcheheye to Ralph le Thechere and Cristina, his wife, of a house consisting of the sixth part of a burgage, without the West Gate of B., near the tenement of Nicholas de Pridie; 19th Edward III. A small seal is attached, nearly perfect. So small a holding as the sixth part of a burgage has nowhere else been met with.

Grant by Henry Flehyter, of Breggewater, to John Chester, Chaplain, and Richard Degone, of Somertone, of a tenement without the West Gate, as you go to Kerdisbury [now "Kidsbury," in Wembdon], between the tenement of the Holy Trinity and that of Thomas Lane; also, three acres in Helefeld, called "Le Pitte "Croft," and a half acre between the land of William Gascoigne and that of John Cosyn; 5th Henry VI. The seal is perfect, but with a bad impression.

A settlement by Humphrey Blake with the Corporation of B., as administrator of the estate of his father, Robert Blake, in reference to the charities established by the latter; 42nd Elizabeth. This is a declaration of trusts; whereas the two deeds previously mentioned bore reference to the conveyance of the legal estate in the trust property. The seal is lost.

A Latin document, wherein Brother William, Warden of the Friars Minors in B., sends greeting to William Dyst and Johanna, his wife, " And through the merits "of this life may they attain everlasting joy." For the devotion shown by them towards the Order, and their benefits to the Convent, they are admitted to participate in the suffrages of the Convent, and, after death, they are to have the same benefits (in the way of prayers) as the brethren, and friends, and benefactors, of the Order;

CORPORA 10th January 1409. The Conventual seal is attached, and in good preservation.

TION OF BRIDG WATER.

A Latin document, whereby Brother Robert, Warden of the Friars Minors in B., admits William Kendall to the benefits of the brotherhood of the Order, A.D. 1479. The Conventual seal is attached, and in fine preservation.

A similar document to the preceding one, wherein Brother Robert, Warden of the Friars Minors in B., admits John Kendall and Matilda, his wife, and William and Juliana, to the benefits of fraternity of the Order, A.D. 1479. It is most beautifully written, but only a fragment of the seal is left. On the back is a form of Absolution.

A similar grant of fraternity by Brother Robert, Warden of the Friars Minors at B., to Brother Marmaduke Lumley, of the Order of St. John the Baptist, A.D. 1479. On the back, the form of Absolution is written.

Draft of a conveyance, attested by John Dene, Mayor of B., and the commons thereof, executed by John Walshawe, citizen of London, Richard, his brother, of the County of Somerset, and Philip Pym, to Roger Huswyf, Clerk, and Oliver Huyshe, of lands in Burtone, Miltone, and Wurle, in Somerset ; 2nd Richard III. The Huswyfs [now known as Hussey] were a Hertfordshire family: a Roger Huswyf was Steward of the Abbey of St. Alban's, and an inmate of the house, in the earlier half of the 15th century.

Paper draft of a Licence (in Latin) by Thomas Spence, Master of the House, or Hospital, of St. John the Baptist in B., to Brother Henry Courteis, giving him leave to go to Oxford or Cambridge, and visit the Holy See. Without date, but of about the time of Edward IV.

A deed of Cecily, Duchess of York, widow of Richard, Duke of York, and mother of King Edward IV., who had recently granted to her the lordship of the burgh of Bridgwater." Cecill, the Kynges moder, Duchesse of "York, to alle those that these oure lettres shall see or here, greting. Forasmuche as we be enfourmed that "within oure propartie of the Bourghe of Bruggewater oure lyvelode is gretely fallen in delaye, for lak of

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oversight and due reparacyon in tyme, wharby oure reaume ther is diminerished; and yf it shuld so con"tinue without convenable remedy, it shuld redounde "unto oure grete hurte.—We therfor have yeven au"torite and power by thees oure lettres unto oure right trusty and wel-beloved servantes Richard Quatermayne and William Brownyng, Squires, and Thomas Aleyn and Stephen Prestone, and to iii. or ii. of them "to gedre, for to take due and juste inquerre and ex"aminacion of the said delayes, and in whos tenures they have been, and whoo of right oughte to make reparacion of theyme; and ther upon to certifie us by writing in alle goodly hast. To thentent that we may by the advise of oure counsell purveye for remedy "in that behalve, and see that oure lyvelode be emprowed to oure moost advaille, thees oure lettres at oure pleasure to endure. Yeven under oure seell, in "the Palaice of Westmynster, the xx day of Novembre, "the furst yere of the reigne of my lord, my son, King "Edward the iiiithe."

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In the following article we have one of the early results of the preceding arrangement. A small letter, written on stout paper, addressed outside,--" Be this delyvered to the Portreve of Brigwater.-Worshup"fulle Sirs. I commawnd me to you, lettynge you witt, my Lady is Cowncelle mervellith that ye were natt att her awdite att Sheftisburi with your viii. li. ob. [81. d.], your fee ferme. Hit semeth by your delyng "that ye sett butt litille by her. Sirs, y pray you, delyver this viii. li. ob. to my servante, the berer of "this bille, that y haue no more labour therwith: and ye do natt, there shalbe such a mene fownd that ye shalle cum up by a Privy Sealle, and make a rekeninge for other thynges, that shalle turne you to lyttle ese.-W. Brounyng, recyver to the Kynges "Moder."

Draft of a conveyance, on paper (in Latin) by Richard Barton, of Taunton, to John Wise and Alice, his wife, of a burgage in High Street in B., situate near Godewyneslane; 2nd Richard III.

Draft of a conveyance, on paper (in Latin) by John Portman, to Robert Stoke and Johanna, his wife, of a burgage, or messuage, in North Street, in Taunton; without date, but of the time of Henry VII., probably.

Draft of a conveyance, on paper (in English) by Thomesine Hylle, widow, to Thomas Phelipp, Esquire, of the fourth part of a ship called "the Margarete," the fourth part of a ship named "the John," and half a quarter of a ship named “the Nicholas," of Bruggewater, with all thappareyles, artillarie, habillementes, and in

"strumentes, to the same two quarters and half quarter "belonging or apperteyning;" 23rd Edward IV.

Copy of a Latin memorandum formerly inserted in a book, (probably a Breviary or Mass Book) which had been presented to the Church by John Colsweyn, Vicar. (Tr)." Pray for the soul of Sir John Colsweyn, Vicar "of this Church of Bruggewater, who to the end that "his soul might be kept in especial memory for the "future, made and left this book, prepared at his own "costs and labour, to lie in the church aforesaid, be"fore the Vicar thereof, of his own free will; as also, "in part by way of relief of all his parishioners." He was Vicar in 1465, temp. Edward IV.

A long sheet of parchment, indented at the edges, being estreats, amercements, etc., taken at Byrmyngeham, 11th Edward IV. Part of it also contains forfeitures at a Sessions held at Warwick, in the same reign.

Draft of a conveyance, on paper (in Latin), by T. Bartlat, Clerk, and others, to J. Collys, of a tenement in 'Yevill' (Yeovil), near Venelcrosse there, 1st Edward IV.

Paper drafts (in Latin) of several deeds connected with the College of Zouche, in Shropshire, 13th Henry VII.

A draft, on parchment (in Latin) of a grant by Thomas, Prior of the Priory, or Monastery, of St. Mary and St. Eadburga, at Burcester, in the Diocese of Lincoln, to James Souch, Notary Public, for his services, of an annuity of 4 pounds, to be paid in their church of Ardyngton, 9th Henry VII,

Receipt by George Michell, 21st October 1620, for 211. 88. 4d. received of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Burgesses of B., the same being a loan for "the Kinges Majestie of Bohemia."

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Grant by Stephen Allche, Prior of the Order of Friars Preachers [Dominican Friars] at Ivelcestre [now Ilchester] of spiritual benefits to John Kendall and Matilda, his wife; A.D. 1485. The seal is perfect, but the impression is indistinct. The initial letter is finely illuminated,

A parchment roll of six membranes, containing the Sheriff's Account for the Counties of Somerset and Dorset, A.D. 1476.

Two sheets of parchment, containing accounts of the Chantries of the Parish Church of B., temp. Henry VIII. Probate copy of the will of Johanna, wife of Thomas Fote, A.D. 1414. She leaves to the Master of the Hospital of St. John at B., 12d.; to the brethren thereof, to celebrate for her soul, 12d.; to the Vicar of the Parish, 12d.; with legacies to several Chaplains. To Isabel Westely she leaves her best hood; to Isabel Weycombe her two best veils; to the Wardens of the goods of the light of the Blessed Trinity, her best brass pot, which formerly belonged to Adam Beste, her late husband, that her soul may be had in everlasting remembrance by the brethren and sisters of the said Guild. To the same Wardens she also leaves as much linen thread as will make an altar-cloth for the altar of the Holy Trinity in the said church. She further leaves to William Gosse, William Gayscoione, John Kedwelly, Richard Warde, John Woode, and Thomas Cane, her tenement, situate in Orlouestrete, for the maintenance of a Chaplain to celebrate at the altar of the Holy Trinity. To the Friars Minors of B. she leaves 2 shillings' worth of wheat, and the same amount of beans.

A deed by which John Colswayn, perpetual Vicar of Briggewater, lets to John Young and Isabella, his wife, a virgate called "Haynes," in the Parish of Stour Estover, 4th Edward IV.

Deed by John Boye and John Paris, Wardens and Proctors of the Church of St. Mary at B., to Reginald Goldsmith and Editha, his wife, conveying a house situate near the Brethren of the Hospital of St. John the Baptist; 5th Edward II. The two seals are lost. A later John Paris, who was a Notary Public, was the first Mayor of Bridgwater. The surname "Paris" occurs among its records for nearly two centuries.

Bond of Cristina, widow of Richard Chislade, to Richard Horeloke, of B.; John Lembe and Geoffrey Bokebynder, the Provosts, setting their seal of office thereto, 20th Richard II. The Provosts' seal, already described, with the galley, still remains attached.

Communication made to the Mayor and Burgesses of B. by the Mayor of Youghal, in Ireland. A part of it seems almost unintelligible, but it deserves especial notice as a piece of Irish English, at so distant a date as A.D. 1475.

"William Walsch Mayre of the towne of Yoghyll, "Thomas Forest and Philipe Hore, bayllyffys of the same, William Whit, Richard Tobyn, and John Boghe,

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utterly hoppe ye in your behalfe to doo the same. "And fore the more swertie of all the seyde premyssys "to be holde performed and kepte in oure behalfe, the "sealle of oure office of the meiralte of the towne "above sayde, as the seellys of every of us severally, to thys owre wrytynge hawe put to, the viij day of Maij yn the xv yere of the regnyng of owre Soveraynge "lorde Kynge Edwarde the Fowrthe."

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The seal of the Corporation of Youghal is attached, in very fair condition, representing a galley. Some four smaller seals have also been attached, but one only is now left.

Grant by Nicholas Toky and John Pottere, Wardens of the light of the Chantry of St. Mary, to Agnes Mogge, and Robert, her son, of a tenement in Oreleue stret, they paying one rose yearly at the Nativity of St. John the Baptist; 8th Richard II. It has a fine seal attached, apparently that of the Churchwardens of St. Mary's; which frequently occurs, but in general the impression is indistinct.

Robert Northovere, Priest, having been presented to the vicarage by John Sydenham and Walter Holemoure, Stewards of the Merchants Guild, and the Commons of Brigewater, Ralph [Ergum] Bishop of Bath and Wells, in the 5th year of his translation [from the See of Salisbury] formally admits him: date 1393. The document has a fine impression of the Bishop's seal, but somewhat broken.

Paper copy of a grant by John Hamlyn to John Drue, Esquire, and others, of a messuage situated in Chapmanne Rewe (Chapman Row) in B., and of two stalls at the corner thereof, he having lately had the same of the gift of John Parys, Notary, and others; A.D. 1477. No mention of Chapman Row has anywhere else been found, and the memory of it has probably wholly perished.

Probate copy of the Will of Isolda, widow of Thomas Cane, of B., A.D. 1415; of great length, and of value in reference to various localities in the town, and grants to the church there. A fragment only of the seal of the Archdeaconry of Taunton is left.

A copy, apparently, of a General Pardon granted by Edward IV., in the first year of his reign, to Humphrey Stafford, lord of Suthwyk, Knight, son and heir of William Stafford, Esquire. It is in no way to extend to John Waleys, Esquire, Roger Thorpe, Esquire, William Philip, alias William Ferrour, Esquire, Edward Thorneburgh, Gentilman, John Amyas, Gentilman, Nicholas Rygby, late of Kyngstone on Thames, Yoman, or Thomas Sergeauntson, Yoman.

A deed by Thomas of Briggewater, making John Parys his attorney, sealed with the seal of the Mayor, John Walshe, 16th Edward IV. The seal is similar to that used by the Corporation at the present day.

Grant by John Churcheye, of B., to William Bercorn,

Chaplain, and Robert Orchard, of his property situate in Canyngtone, North Pederton, and Andresfeld; as also, his property in Bruggewater, except one burgage without the West Gate, between the burgage of Robert Plomptone and the land of Johanna Combemartyn; 44th Edward III. Witnesses, Robert Plomptone, John Cole, William Criche, Hugh Mareis, and William Tavernere. The seal still exists.

Conveyance by Robert Orchard, of Smetheney, in the parish of Milverton, to Henry Flyter of B., heir and kinsman of John Churcheye, of all the messuages last mentioned; 2nd Henry VI.

Release by John Cole to Roger Slipere and Agnes, his wife, of a tenement in B.; 7th Richard II. The seal is still attached. Among the witnesses is named William Blacche (already mentioned), not improbably an ancestor of the Blakes, of two centuries later.

Conveyance by Isabel, widow of Laurence Grey, to Geoffrey Busschel of a tenement in B., opposite the Market there, and situate between the tenement of Robert le Gode and that of Simon Hyne; 18th Edward II. The seal is attached, but broken. Among the witnesses Richard Parys is named, a member probably of the family previously mentioned.

Grant by Thomas Horsy, son of Thomas, to Walter Hert, of a vacant piece of ground in Frerenstrete, in B., near the land late of William Gascoigne; 15th Henry VI. The seal is lost. Qy. if Horsey, near Bridgwater, takes its name from this family, or, what is perhaps more likely, the family from the place.

Deed by which William Criche, Thomas Wyldemersch, Chaplain, and Agatha, widow of Roger Swof ham, executors of the will of the said Roger, convey to John Botelegh, Vicar of B., and William Bercorn, Chaplain, a tenement opposite the Castle, as you go from the Great Bridge to the Market-place; and a vacant piece of ground, also situate in the High Street, in La Čokenerewe (Cook's Row). Witnesses, Thomas Large, John Bethesee, William atte Mulle, and John Smith; 37th Edward III. The three seals attached are perfect. All memory of the Cook's Row, it is believed, has perished. The mention of the "Great Bridge," evidently that built by Sir Thomas Trivet, would seem to imply the then existence of a smaller one (leading into the Castle, as has been previously suggested): unless indeed, certain jetties and landing-places, thrown out into the river, may have been styled "bridges," which was sometimes the case.

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A parchment writing, probably of the time of Henry VI., headed Hewyssh, juxta Highbrygge," stating that an Inquisition was taken in the 21st year of Edward I. before Nicholas de Langeland, Steward there, in a matter of Nicholas Berde against William de Wellyngtone, Ralph de Wellyngtone, and Philip de Langeland, whereby it was found that Reginald atte Brigge, predecessor of the said Nicholas Berde, was seised in the time of Henry III., etc., and had issue Isabel, his daughter and heir; from which Isabel the fee descended to Isabel, her daughter and heir; and from her to the said Nicholas, as her son and heir. The Inquisition was taken by John Everard of Hewysshe, John le Vayre, William Morekynge, Webbekyng, William Kynge in the Newehamme, John Veysy, Robert Couke, Henry Davy, John at Sonde, Thomas at Huysshe, William Kynge of Byle, and Walter le Kynge of Byle. Witnesses, John Everard of Honespill [now Huntspill], John de Westone, John de Mareys, Thomas Dige, John Brunynge, and others.

Conveyance by Robert Wake and Agnes, his wife, to John Mogge, of a tenement in Briggewater, in the street called "* Ordlouestret," and extending to the street called "Pynelestret," near to the street leading to the North Gate; 26th Edward III. The two seals are perfect. The above two streets now form the one street known as " Penel Orlieu Street."

Conveyance by Thomas de Stoke, smith, to John Pollard, of Heigrave, of two selds [open sheds] and one sollar, built upon the two selds; also, a vacant place "for two dealers' stalls ordained;" 30th Edward III. The seal is perfect. Among the witnesses, William Blacche, already noticed, is named.

Conveyance by William atte More and Roger de Commych, executors of Henry Kene, of a tenement near the West Gate in B., extending to the sollar formerly of "William Smith (Faber) in the Walles, who "used to be called Prestessone,' (qui dicebatur 'Prestessone '); 33rd Edward I. The two seals are fairly perfect. The name (Priest's son) was probably so imposed upon William Smith by his neighbours in a spirit of obloquy.

Conveyance by Stephen Coke, of B., Chaplain, to

John Sleper, Chaplain, and Ralph Baker, of a tenement in Seintmarystret. Witnesses, Elias Bernard and Philip Clopton (Provosts), John Chapman and John Vageler, Bailiffs, John Kedwelly, and others; 6th Henry IV. The seal is mutilated.

Conveyance by John Cory to Richard Maydus, of a vacant place, formerly his curtilage, extending from the wall on the foss at B. Witnesses, William Tracy, Richard Merewelle, John le Deyare, James de la Mere, Walter le Velpollare, Walter le Palmere, Adam Lollepace, Simon de la Forde, John Deverel, and others; 30th Edward I. Only half the seal is left.

Conveyance by John Sydenham and Walter Holemore, Stewards of the Merchants' Guild at B., to Roger Satre, "taillour," and Alice, his wife, of a tenement at the east end of the bridge. Witnesses, Humphrey Horeiok and John Lombe, Provosts, John Eygod and Ralph Fysschepond, Bailiffs of the Guild there, and John Horelok, Bailiff of the Commonalty; 16th Richard II. Of the two seals, one is lost.

Conveyance by William Cryche, of B., to John Cole, burgess, of a tenement at the east end of the Parish churchyard, between the Style and the Common Bakehouse; 14th Richard II. The seal is lost. The "Com"mon Bakehouse," no doubt, was that belonging to the lords of the fee.

Conveyance by Waryn Waldegrave, Esquire, to Hawysia, widow of John Sely of B., and John, her son, of a meadow called "Thornymede," near that of the Vicar of Wemedone, for their joint lives, at a rent of 16 pennies of silver. The said Hawysia and John "will scour (escurabunt), or cause to be scoured, a "certain water-course called Crowpylle,' "" in the north of the said meadow, at their own expense. nesses, Simon Michel, Richard Delamare, William Thorne, Thomas Fote, Robert Dyut; 4th Henry IV. Only fragments of the two seals are left.

Wit

Conveyance by John Wynde of B., to John Bere, "boucher," John Legat, and John Trot, of a tenement situate in Orlouestret, and a tenement in Weststret, between a tenement belonging to the heirs of Thomas Duffeld, and one belonging to John Cadisdon. Witnesses, William Gascoigne and Richard Warde, "Stewards of the Guild of the Community," Robert Hill, "taillour," and William Corwyll, Provosts, John Pyt and John Elis, Bailiffs, and Richard Dyut; 12th Henry IV, The seal is in a perfect state.

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Probate Copy of the Will (in Latin) of Gilbert Russel, A.D. 1317. Among other things, he leaves to the man who shall make pilgrimage for him to St. James [of Compostella, in Spain] and to Rochemadour, 40 shillings. To the Friars Minors of B., 40 shillings. To the man who shall make pilgrimage for him to Bromholm, Walsingham, and Canterbury, 40 shillings. To Brother Peter de Bokelond, 40 shillings, "to repair his garb yearly, so long as it shall last (ad habitum suum corrigendum annuatim, dum duret)." To the poor of the Infirmary [Hospital] of St. John at Breggewater, 138. 4d. Also, 10 shillings to buy stones for mending the road between the Hospital and the Bridge. To Walter le Large, 5 ells of the best cloth which Walter has in his charge. To Thomkyn his second best gown. To Ralph de Kent, one green surcote, with hood. To Richard Syerwyn, one surcote, with hood. To Agnes Seyffyel and Margery, her daughter, 2 rochets. To Elionora Bonere, 5 shillings. To John Boye he leaves the residue of his goods, and his best gown.

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"Proved

"before the Official of the Archdeacon of Tauntone, at Pokyntone, by the said John Boye, one of the "Executors therein named." A portion of the Castellan's seal, of Bridgwater, is attached to this probate copy.

Grant by the Burgesses of Brugeswalter (Brugeswalteri), to Robert Bakhouse (de Pistrino) of a half burgage without the North Gate, between the burgage of John Fitz-Eve, on the east side, and that of Walter Orloc (sic) on the west. To the part delivered to the said Robert they have set the seal of St. Mary, and to the part delivered to them the said Robert has set his seal; without date, but belonging to the reign of Edward I. The seal is lost.

Conveyance by Johanna, relict of Richard Hyitlesham, of Bruggewater, to Walter Hayward and Isabel, his wife, of one half burgage in Seintmary stret, between the tenement called "Georgeshyn" (George's Inn) and that of John Payn. Witnesses, William Thomere, John Sely, Thomas Skydipha, William Richeman, and John Kedwelly, Clerk; 16th Richard II. The seal is in good condition.

Conveyance by Walter le Cat, of Brugeswalter, to John Bussel, of a half burgage, in the Great Street.

Witnesses, Walter de Kentelesbere, Walter Orelof, Laurence Wilde, Roger de Kentelesbere, Walter Brun, Walter Irish (Hyberniense), Roger Pelliper; without date, but of the time of Edward I. The seal is lost. Conveyance by John Mavyell and Cecily, his wife, to William Hertlond and Thomas Maviall of 3 shops, with sollars built over them, in Forstrete in Taunton, opposite to the Corn-market, and near the Castle Ditch; as also, a shamble in the place of the High Market called "the Burgh," near the Water Conduit. Witnesses, Walter Portman, Gentleman, Sirs John Smythe, Edmund Sadeler, and Richard Pomeroy, Chaplains, William Payne and John Blower, Portreves, William Borte and Thomas Domett, the year's Bailiffs, John Yethode, 'sadeler," John Hyde, Geoffrey Marchant. Given at Taunton, 6th Henry VI. The two seals are perfect.

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Conveyance by John Kedewelly, of Briggewater, to Robert Legh, of Haddeworthy, of rent which John Helier paid for a tenement in B., opposite the tenement of Thomas Armyte, as you go from the Parish Church towards the Friars Minors; also, a yearly rent of one rose, which Margery Mone was wont to pay for a tenement for the term of her life situate in the Cokenrewe, with the reversion thereof after her decease; 10th Henry IV. The "Cooks' Row" has already come

under notice.

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A Letter, written on paper, in a large bold hand :Baylyffes.-I commend me unto you. Hyt ys soo that you are bounde to pay me the hole fee farm of Brydgewater at Myhelms laste. Nevertheles I understande "that you stay certen of the money, for the Kynge's Majestie reservd. I will doe for you the best that I can, soo that you wyll send me knolege playnly how "the case stondyth; and also the residue of the rent remayning in your handes dew unto me at Mihelmas last, by this berer, my Chapleyne, and so shall make you a quittens for the recete therof, which I bynde myself to performe by this my letter. Wryten the "xixth day of Aprill the xxxiiith yere of the reign of our most dreade Soveraign Lorde Kyng Henry theyght.-Grey." Addressed:-"To my ffryndes the Baylyffes of Brydgwater, this be dd. (delivered).”

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Grant by John de Loveni to Robert le Toukere [the Fuller] of his half burgage without the West Gate, as you go to the West Wayhur [? Wear]. Witnessess, Richard Maydus and John Boye, the then Provosts, William le Large, John Dyer, Simon de la Forde, Walter Paris, Ralph Redhed; 3rd Edward II. The seal is fairly perfect.

Conveyance by Henry Smyth and Philippa, his wife, to John Gunne, John Pyt, John Cosin, Thomas Cave, Richard Dyut, and John Beker, of a tenement situate in Cranyleslane in Damyet, in B; 4th Henry VI. The seal is attached. "Cranyleslane" is a now forgotten locality.

Conveyance by John More and Magota, his wife, to Lewyis Kerlyon of one half of a house in Seyntmarystret, in B., temp. Edward III.

A parchment, with three small seals formerly impressed upon the face of it, but now crumbled to pieces, the marks of them only being left. The context, written in English, is to the following effect.-" Edward Erl of "Marche, Richard Erl of Warewic, and Richard Erl of Salisbury, to al maner of men, thies presentes hering or seeing, greting. We, on the Kynges behalue, charge and commaunde you, and on our owne desire, "and pray you that ye neither hurt, vexe, noye, trouble, "pille, robbe, ne despoile, Johan Davy of Brigewater, "marchaunte, ne eny of his servauntes or tenauntes, ne take eny of their goodes, whersomever thei bee or canne bee founde, as ye wol eschewe the Kyngges "high displeasyd and our hevy lordshipe; but to "suffre theim peasably to ryde, goo, and abide in such "places as may bee unto their ease and profit; for as "moche as we have takene the said Johan, as above, "undre our tuicion and savegarde. Yeven undre our signett at Londone, the xxiiii day of August." The year in which this safe-conduct was written is not stated, but it was, no doubt, between A.D. 1455 and 1460.

Among the many volumes of Accounts of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries that have been recently brought to light, are the Accounts of the Water-Bailiffs of the town in 1565, wrapped in a large folio parchment sheet of a manuscript of Pliny's Natural History, of the 14th century, containing, apparently, a part of the Introduction, with the heads of Books II.-VII., and the authorities used in the compilation of them. The Water-Bailiffs' Account for 1579 is wrapped in a large folio parchment sheet of a manuscript, apparently part of an Antiphonar