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PARTS I. TO IV.

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PART I. EDITED BY

WALFORD D. SELBY, ESQ.,

OF THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE.

PART II. EDITED BY

F. J. FURNIVALL, M.A., PH.D.

PART III. EDITED BY

EDWARD A. BOND, LL.D.,

AND

WALFORD D. SELBY, ESQ.

PART IV. EDITED BY

R. E. G. KIRK, ESQ.

LONDON :
PUBLISHED FOR THE CHAUCER SOCIETY

BY KEGAN PAUL, TRENCH, TRUBNER & CO.,

PATERNOSTER HOUSE, CHARING-CROSS ROAD.
1900

PR

19 o(

. 2

No. 32.

RICHARD CLAY & SONS, LIMITED, LONDON & BUNGAY.

FOREWORDS.

AT last, after many years, all the records relating to Geoffrey
Chaucer, " the prince of English poets," so far as they are at present
known, have been brought together within the covers of one book.
This result has been accomplished by the co-operation of many
devoted inquirers.

Some of these records were discovered long ago by William
Godwin, some by Sir Nicholas Harris Nicolas, and were printed in
their Lives of the poet ; but both their works left so many portions
of Chaucer's life open to doubt and question, that endless speculations
and controversies have been started by later investigators, each of
whom has contributed more or less useful references in support of his
propositions. All obligations to these writers have been acknowledged
in the notes to this work. Most of their contributions were carefully
gathered up and commented on by Prof. Skeat ; but he did not see
the original texts, and although his Life was published only a few
years ago, in 1894, sundry extremely important records have been
discovered since by more recent inquirers, and others during the
numerous investigations which it has been necessary to make in the
course of the present work.

In the forefront of Chaucerian discoverers must be placed Dr.
Furnivall, on account not only of his own extensive researches, but
of those which his attractive example has induced others to under
take. Chief among these fellow-workers was the late Mr. W. D.
Selby, under whose editorship this work was commenced about
thirteen years ago. Mr. Selby devoted himself heart and soul to the
task of collecting fresh materials for it, and most enthusiastic were
the preliminary letters which he wrote on the subject in the AtJienceum
and the Academy, evincing the all-engrossing interest he took in
everything relating to the poet. He even began to print the results
of his labours, but these were untimely cut short. A good many of
the earlier entries from the Public Record Office were seen by him
in proof, and have at length been finally prepared for press, with the
insertion of records since brought to light.

V

vi 1252 — 1321. The early Chaucers of London, etc.

Considering how the public records were scattered about in
various offices in the days of Godwin and Nicolas, it is surprising
that they should have discovered so much as they did. Nicolas
anticipated that many future discoveries would be made among them,
and his prophesy has been amply justified. Even since Selby's time,
when the records had for some years been brought together under
one roof, they have been rendered more and more accessible by the
constantly flowing stream of new calendars and indexes, either in
print or in manuscript, which are in active preparation at the Public
Record Office. It is hoped that, with the aid of these works, the
collection of the Life-Records of Chaucer is now nearly complete ;
but there are still several unindexed classes of records which may
yield additional particulars.

A large proportion of the earlier entries has been derived from
the City records in the Guildhall. One has been obtained from the
British Museum, one from Lincoln Cathedral, one from Westminster
Abbey, and one from the library of Lincoln College, Oxford.
Froissart's Chronicles and Stow's Annals have furnished other items.

EARLY CHAUCERS.

It is necessary in the first place briefly to record the names of the
earlier Chaucers, who may have been ancestors or collaterals of the poet,
but whose relationship has not yet been ascertained. They all probably
belonged to two or three families at most. Benedict le Chaucer was
a merchant of London in 1252,1 and there was a rioter of the same
name at Norwich in 1272. John le Chaucer, of London, occurs in
1278, 1298, and 1302 ;2 John le Chaucer, "called Prest of Smethe-
feld " (son of John le Chaucer), and Katherine Lavener his wife, in
1298 ; 3 Elias le Chaucer, of London, and Agnes his wife, in 1301,
1319, 1322, and 1335 j3 Peter Chaucer and Isabella his wife,
daughter and heiress of Isabella, widow of Roger le Lorimer, citizen
of London, in 1301 ;4 Baldwin le Chaucer, of Cordwainer Street, in
1307 ;5 Philip le Chaucer, of London, in 1316, and, with Helewysa
his wife, in 1321 ; 6 William le Chaucer, " dictus le Taverner," of the

1 Liberate Roll.

2 P. 140 note ; Patent Boll, 30 Edw. L; Hasting Rolls.

3 Rusting Rolls.

4 Harl. Charters, 53 H. 2 ; Nicolas's Life, p. 94. The references to
Nicolas's Life in this volume are to the reprint in Morris's edition of the poet's
works. 6 Riley's Memorials, xxxiii, xxxiv. ; Prof. Skeat's Life, ix, x.

6 Rusting Rolls.

1326-73. Early fy other Ckaacers. The Poet's Name fy Lineage, vii

parish of St. Mary le Bow, in 1326 j1 William, son of Elias before
mentioned, in 1332, and Henry, son of Elias, in 1335 ;2 Nicholas
le Chaucer, of Cordwainer Street, in 1356, and Henry le Chaucer, of
the same ; 3 Henry Chaucer and Juliana his wife,2 part of whose
garden adjoined Walbrook, in 1372 and 1373.4 There were a few
Chaucers at Norwich, Colchester, and perhaps at other places in
the Eastern counties — Walter, Henry, Gerard, Bartholomew.5

It would take too long to discuss at length the various derivations
which have been suggested for the name of Chaucer. After con
sidering all that has been written on the subject, for my own part I
think preference must be given to the view of Urry and Riley, that
it originally meant " shoemaker/' It was the French form of the
Latin " calcearius," a term used in early French records for a follower
of St. Crispin. As this Latin form was not used in England, so far
as we know, we may infer that the Chaucers came over from
France, perhaps in the reign of Henry III., when the name is
first met with ; and they probably came with wines, for they traded
here as vintners, having apparently abandoned their primitive occu
pation; yet some of these vintners, including Chaucer's immediate
ancestors, took up their abode in Cordwainer Street, London, the
settlement of the English shoemakers or " cordubanarii." 6

1 Historical MSS. Reports, viii. 323. 2 Husting Rolls.

3 Riley's Memorials, xxxiii, xxxiv. ; Prof. Skeat's Life, ix, x. As to
Nicholas Chaucer, see No. 54.

4 It may be added that the will of Juliana, relict of Henry le Chauncer,
vintner, 1374, is mentioned in an ancient index to the Wills of the Archdeaconry
of London, but this and many other early wills in that series are not extant.

5 Athenceum, Jan. 29, 1881, pp. 165, 166 ; Nicolas, p. 94.

6 See p. 250, note. " Ohawcers " = shoes; Anglo-Norman (Halliwell's
Dictionary). The Christian names of some of the early Chaucers were more
common in France than in England, as namely, Baldwin, Benedict, Bartholomew,
Elias, Gerard, Nicholas. The principal variations in the spelling of the surname
are — Chaucere, Chaucers, Chancier, Chausier, Chauncer, Chaucy, Chause ; but
Chaucer is much the more usual form. Several Geoffreys of similar surnames
are mentioned in early records. A Geoffrey Chausi, of Oxfordshire, occurs in
Curia Regis Rolls, 1 John (ii. 67) ; and it is remarkable that the poet's name is
spelt Chaucy in a few documents. A Geoffrey le Sauser held two tenements
in Oxford, in 1279. (Hundred Rolls, ii. 799, where the name is misprinted
Caus' ; and in the same volume Robert le Chauf or ChauftismisprintedChaus.)
A Geoffrey le Chaucur (miswritten Chantur), Caukor, or Caukour (that is, the
Caulker), and his son Henry, Burgesses of Conway, temp. Edw. I., are to. be
found several times in the Ancient Petitions. William Franceys le Chaucer
was witness to a deed at Lincoln, temp. Edw. I.— Addit. Charters, 19990.

viii 1307—1315. Robert le Chaucer, the Poet's Grandfather.

Much speculation as to Chaucer's parentage has been indulged in
both before and since the time of Nicolas, who confesses his inability
to 'settle the question, though he actually mentions Chaucer's parents
without knowing it. Speght and Urry could only guess that
Chaucer belonged to the county of Oxford, or to that of Berks,
relying merely on the fact that Thomas Chaucer at a later period had
various possessions there, which they supposed him to have inherited.
Urry asserted that his father's name was John, but gave no proof.
Fuller conjectured that he was the son of a vintner of London. In
modern times Mr. Walter Rye did his best to prove that Chaucer
belonged to Lynn in Norfolk.1

This matter has been clearly elucidated, and we are able to
go back as far as Chaucer's grandfather, Robert le Chaucer, who was
a citizen and probably a vintner of London, and in 1308 was attorney
to the King's Butler in the Port of London. He possessed ten acres
of land in Edmonton, evidently in right of his wife, named Mary, but
he sold them in 1307. From a later document it appears that he
had a messuage in Ipswich. No doubt he had property in London,
but there is no positive evidence of this.

Notwithstanding his official position, Robert was accused of
taking part with other Londoners in " certain outrages anddespites"
which were committed upon the Gascon merchants resorting to
London in 1310, probably with their wines.2 The King, Edward II.,
consequently sent the Keeper of his Wardrobe into the City with a
mandate to the Mayor, Sheriffs, and Aldermen, for redress of the
offences, and for the arrest of the offenders, including Robert, who were
to be " produced immediately on the King's coming " \ but what
happened to them is not stated.

Either the charge was ill-founded, or the offence was condoned,
for only a few weeks afterwards Robert le Chaucer was appointed by
the King to be one of the two collectors of a custom on wines
payable by the Gascon vintners. He died in or before 1315, leaving
Mary, his widow, in debt, which was charged on " her lands and
chattels in the City of London and elsewhere." Mary afterwards
married a Richard le Chaucer, citizen and vintner of London, whose
relationship to Robert is not stated. Richard's name occurs in two
City records of 1319 and 1325.

1 Life Records, III., App. I.

2 See Stow's Survey, Vmtry Ward.

1324-7. A bduction of the Poet's father, John, bij Westhale $ Stace. ix

In 1326 Eichard le Chaucer and Mary his wife brought an
action at law against Agnes, widow of Walter de Westhale, Thomas
Stace, Geoffrey Stace, and Lawrence, Geoffrey's man. They alleged
that they had been in possession of the wardship of John, son and
heir of Robert le Chaucer, who was then under fourteen years of
age ; that Robert had held a messuage in Ipswich ; that Mary was
mother of the heir ; l that John had been in their custody in the
ward of Cordwainer Street, London, for one year ; that he had been
abducted 2 by the defendants on 3rd December, 1324, and had been
married by them to Joan, daughter of Walter de Westhale. The
defendants pleaded in their justification the custom of Ipswich, by
which an heir became of full age at the end of his twelfth year. The
trial was begun before the King at Norwich, in Hilary term, 1326,
when the parties appeared by their attorneys ; it was adjourned till
Easter ; then till Trinity term at Westminster, then till Michaelmas
term. Owing to the unsettled state of the Courts for some time
before and after the " demission" of Edward II., the trial was not
resumed till Easter, 1327, at York, when Richard le Chaucer and
Mary his wife appeared by their attorney, but the defendants did not
appear ; and then the Corporation of London claimed and was
allowed jurisdiction in the matter under their new charter. The
action was therefore adjourned to St. Martin's le Grand, where, in
October, 1327, a jury found that the defendants had by night
forcibly abducted John le Chaucer from the plaintiffs' custody, but
did not marry him, and the damages were assessed at 250Z. In
Michaelmas term, at York, judgment was given accordingly, and the
arrest of the defendants was ordered.

Geoffrey Stace appealed against this judgment. In his appeal it
is alleged that the damages awarded were excessive, since " the

1 The record says she was " next," i. e. next of kin to John, not that she was
" nearer in relationship to the heir . . . than the Staces," as inferred by Prof.
Skeat from Mr. Rye's abstract. The actual words of the roll are, " Et predicta
Maria propinquior est heredi ipsius Roberti, scilicet, mater ipsius heredis, et
quondam uxor ipsius Roberti ; " and the plaintiffs further alleged that the
defendants did not deny "quin ad ipsam Mariam custodia terre predict! heredis,
tanquam ad propinquiorem etc., pertiueat." In records the comparative
degree is frequently used in a superlative sense, as in the well-known term,
"propinquior hae res," next heir. The Professor further assumed that Mary's
maiden name was Stace, but this was based on the same misunderstanding.

2 It is charged that the defendants " rapuerunt et abduxerunt " the heir.
This may be compared with the later charge of "raptus" brought against
Geoffrey. In this case the offence was clearly a civil one.

x 1336-49. Richard Chaucer. His thrice-married Wife. John C.

tenements of the heir were worth no more than twenty shillings a
year/' and that, as found by the jury, the heir was still unmarried,
and residing with the plaintiffs. Stace's appeal was dismissed, and
he himself, for his breach of the peace, was imprisoned in October,
1329.

From a City record' dated 1336 it appears that Richard Chaucer
had a brother named Simon, who was murdered by the son of a
neighbour in the parish of St. Mary Aldermary, in the ward of
Cordwainer Street. Several other records relate to Richard. In
1339 he acquired a tenement in the ward of Vintry from Thomas
Heyron, who also was a citizen and vintner of London. In 1340,
after some interesting negociations between the King and the City,
Richard was assessed to pay 101. towards a loan of 50001. to the
former; in 1341 he was appointed deputy to Reymund Seguyn, the
King's Butler, in the Port of London, for the purpose of collecting
the customs on wines due from foreigners; and in 1342 Richard
Chaucer and another were commissioned to detain ships for the
King's passage over sea.1 In 1344 he acquired a tenement just over
London Bridge, in Southwark, and he was appointed executor to
John de Grantham.2 In 1346 he was assessed among citizens of
London having goods and chattels to the value of 10Z. and upwards,
he being one of the assessors. In 1348 he obtained a release of
rent previously due from a newly-built tenement situate at the
corner of Kiroun Lane, in the parish of St. Michael Paternoster-church.

By his Will in 1349, Richard Chaucer desired to be buried in St.
Mary Aldermary-church, and bequeathed the tenement just mentioned,
with a tavern, for the support of a chaplain to pray for the soul of
Mary, his late wife, whose tomb was in the same church, and for the
soul of her son Thomas Heyron ; and another chaplain was to be
supported in St. Michael Paternoster-church. From this and other
documents it is evident that Mary, the poet's grandmother, was
married three times — first, to some one named Heyron, secondly to
Robert Chaucer, and thirdly to Richard Chaucer.

CHAUCER'S FATHER.

That John Chaucer, the son of Robert and Mary, was the father
of Geoffrey is made clear and certain by the poet's own deed, No.

1 Additions, 1, 2, 3.

2 He was witness to a deed in that year.— Harl. Charters, 48 E 10.

1338-49. John Cliaucer, Vintner, the Poet's Father. xi

146, relating to his father's tenement in the parish of St. Martin's in
the Vintry, which tenement extended from Thames Street to
Walbrook. It would seem that the family had quitted the " ward "
of the Shoemakers for that of the Vintners. There is also evidence
that John was half-brother of Thomas Heyron, citizen and vintner,
who is first mentioned without any surname in No. 9.

The John Chaucer mentioned in the royal letters of protection in
1338 was no doubt Geoffrey's father, although Nicolas treats of him
as a different person. At that date he would be about twenty-six
years of age, and was then going abroad in the King's own retinue,
and by the King's command. It is said that he was " in attend
ance on the King and Queen in their expedition to Flanders
and Cologne." How he came to attract the King's notice
is not indicated ; but here we may perceive the beginning of
the long intimacy of the Chaucers with the royal family. It is
noticeable that other protections were at the same time issued to
persons in the retinue of Henry Plantagenet, or " of Lancaster,"
then recently created Earl of Derby, who was grandson of Henry
III., and was afterwards to become Earl and Duke of Lancaster, and
father-in-law of John of Gaunt, who succeeded to his titles and
possessions.

In a curious City ordinance of 1342, John Chaucer is described
as a vintner.1 He may have been identical with the John who was
deputy to the King's Butler in the Port of Southampton in 1348,
and Collector of Customs in that and other ports.2 On 7th April,
1349, he was appointed executor to Thomas Heyron, but it is
remarkable that he is not mentioned in his stepfather Richard's will,
dated on the 12th of the same month, which refers to Heyron as
being dead. These wills are dated some weeks before the outbreak
of the Great Pestilence, which lasted from 31st May to 29th
September. As Richard Chaucer's will was not proved till 20th
July, he may have died of the plague ; but John proved his half-
brother's will as early as 4th May. There are deeds by him as
executor, dated 13th May, 30th June, and 13th July, and his name
occurs in other deeds of the same year. It is not at all unlikely that
he was the John Chausey who, on 16th July, 1349, received a
reward for bringing to Queen Philippa, at Devizes, a black palfrey

1 Additions, No. 4. 2 He was witness to a deed in 1344.— Close Roll.

xii 1349-67. Chaucer's father, John, and mother, Agnes.

from the Bishop of Salisbury, Eobert Wyvill.1 He may have absented
himself from London at this time in order to avoid the pestilence ; and
if so, he would no doubt take with him his wife Agnes and his young
son Geoffrey, who may have been presented to the Queen on this
occasion.

On llth November, 1349, he obtained a release from Nigel de
Hackney of tenements and rents in London and Middlesex, formerly
of Hamo de Copton, who in John's deed of 1354 is described as
uncle of his wife Agnes, she being Hamo's heir ; and in a deed of

1366 Hamo is described as citizen and money er of London. It is
probable that John and Agnes were married long before the deed of
1349, and that Agnes was the mother of Geoffrey. The property
she inherited from her uncle was a brewhouse in the parish of St.
Botulph without Aldgate, and some rents in that parish.

The seals to the deeds of John and Agnes in 1354, 1363, and
1366, show that they both bore arms; but John's arms are quite
different from those attributed to his son Geoffrey, and to his
reputed grandson Thomas Chaucer.2 Fuller's " merry jokes " on the
subject of the poet's arms are therefore quite beside the mark.3

In 1363 and 1365 John and Agnes conveyed by fines land in
Stepney, and land and shops outside Aldgate, to John de Stodey,
also a vintner, who is mentioned in several of the Chaucer deeds.
These possessions seem to have belonged to Agnes. In 1366 John
and Agnes granted rents in St. Botulph's to William atte Hale,
taverner, and Agnes his wife.4

John Chaucer died in 1366 or 1367. His widow Agnes married
Bartholomew atte Chapel, citizen and vintner of London, and in

1367 they executed some deeds of release. To several of the
deeds between 1354 and 1367 Thomas de Caxton was a witness.
The will of a Nicholas Chaucer, citizen and pepperer, probably a
relative of John, is noted under 1369.

Here we have a considerable body of evidence as to Geoffrey

1 Page 151, note.

2 For these arms, see Nos. 31, 38, 41, 285 ; and for remarks on them, see
Nicolas, pp. 42, 43, 45 ; Prof. Skeat, pp. xlvi, xlvii, 1.

3 Church History, p. 152, referred to by Urry ; ii. 383, in Prof. Brewer's
edition.

4 An ordinance was made in 1363 that sweet wines should be sold at only
three taverns in the City and suburbs, viz., in Chepe, Walbroke, and Lumbard-
strete. The second may have been John Chaucer's. — Close Roll, 39 Edw. III.,
m. 26. As to John Stodey, see Stow's Survey.

Chaucer a Londoner, born and bi*ed. His Boyhood. xiii

Chaucer's lineage. It is now certain that both his father and grand
father were citizens and vintners of London, and that they and
others of the family lived first in Cordwainer Street, and afterwards
in the Vintry. Thus we know that Geoffrey was a Londoner born
and bred. Both his father and his mother inherited sundry
properties, situate in Ipswich, Stepney, and London. What became of
the Ipswich tenement is not stated, but most of the other properties
appear to have been sold by John and Agnes ; so it is probable that
Geoffrey did not inherit much real estate. No doubt his parents saw
that he was a lad of great promise, and gave him the best education
they could, intending him for the life of a courtier rather than for
that of a City merchant.

CHAUCER AT COURT.

Nothing has been found which throws any further light on the
date of the poet's birth since Prof. Skeat's exhaustive remarks on the
subject, but it will be useful to note that the Professor follows Dr.
E. A. Bond1 in fixing the date as being about the year 1340. Prof.
Lounsbury, however, in his Studies in Chaucer, would assign it to
the year 1335, or even earlier; but this would not agree with
Chaucer's own statement that he was ' ' forty years old and more " in
1386. The old birthdate of 1328, based on a statement by Speght,
has been quite discarded.2

The early boyhood of Chaucer has been felicitously pictured by
Dr. Furnivall, when he would no doubt be living " at his father's
wine-shop or tavern in narrow Thames Street." 3 His father, how
ever, probably had some interest at Court, and would contrive to
secure a post there for his son as soon as he was old enough. Urry,
quoting Leland, says that Chaucer spent part of his younger days in
France, Holland, and other countries. Nothing has been found to
corroborate this, or Speght's story about Chaucer having been a
student of the Inner Temple, and beaten a Franciscan friar in Fleet
Street.4

The first positive references to Chaucer occur in two fragmentary
leaves of a household account of Elizabeth, Countess of Ulster, wife
of Lionel, Duke of Clarence, third son of Edward III., discovered

1 Life-Records, III. 102. 2 Nicolas, p. 42.

3 Life- Records, II. viii. 4 Nieolas, p. 5.

xiv 1357-9. Chaucer a Page to the Wife of Prince Lionel.

some years ago by Dr. Bond, and edited by him for the Chaucer
Society. As a member of her household Geoffrey received a
" paltok," or cloak, costing 4s., of his Lady's gift, at London, on
4th April, 1357 ; a pair of red and black [breeches],1 and a pair of
shoes, together costing 3s., on the same day; a payment of two
shillings at London, on 20th May following ; and a payment of
2s. §d. at London, on 20th December, apparently in the same year,
" for necessaries against the feast of the Nativity " (Christmas).
The same fragments contain several entries of payments to one
Philippa Pan', supposed to mean Panetaria, or Lady of the Pantry,2
and to a page who accompanied her from Pullesdon to Hatfield in
December, 1357, for various articles of dress ; and it has been
suggested that she may possibly be identical with the Philippa who
afterwards became Chaucer's wife, and who is first mentioned in
1366.

The importance of these entries, and of others in the same
account, as illustrating Chaucer's early life in 1357, 1358, and
1359, is dwelt on at length by Dr. Bond,3 and his results have been
pithily summarised by Prof. Hales, as follows : " We may catch
glimpses of Chaucer in London, at Windsor, at ' the feast of St.
George held there with great pomp in connexion with the newly
founded Order of the Garter,' again in London, then at Woodstock
at the celebration of the feast of Pentecost, at Doncaster, at Hatfield
in Yorkshire, where he spends Christmas, again at Windsor, in
Anglesey (August, 1358), at Liverpool, at the funeral of Queen
Isabella at the Grey Friars Church, London (27th November, 1358),
at Reading, again in London visiting the lions in the Tower."4 There
is no actual proof that Chaucer stayed at all these places, but as the
Countess did so, the probability is that he was in attendance on her.

Prof. Lounsbury considers that Chaucer must have made a stay
of many months at Hatfield, where he would become acquainted with
the Northern idioms, the presence of which in the translation of the

1 The word is illegible ; and the sum paid seems to be too small for the
article suggested by Dr. Bond.

2 A Bette Panet', or Betty of the Pantry, is also to be found in Dr. Bond's
edition, Life-Records, III. 112. Richard del Panetrie, one of the King's
servants, occurs in the Wardrobe Accounts of 37-38 Edw. III. There was a
Clerk of the Pantry in the household of Henry, Earl of Derby, in 20-21 Ric. II.
Geoffrey le Paneter is mentioned among the Ancient Petitions of an earlier date.

3 Life-Records, III. 97—104.

4 Dictionary of National Biography , vol. 10, p. 156.

1359. Chaucer taken Prisoner in France. His Wife Philippa. xv

"Romaunt of the Rose" has been regarded as fatal to Chaucer's
alleged authorship of some portion of that translation.

CHAUCER TAKEN PRISONER IN FRANCE.

Towards the end of the following year, 1359, Chaucer was
engaged in the war in France, and was taken prisoner by the French,
as we learn from his deposition in the Scrope and Grosvenor con
troversy (No. 193); in which he further states that he was first
" armed " as an Esquire in this campaign of 1359-60, when he saw
Sir Henry and Sir Richard Scrope before the town of Retters
(Bethel, near Rheims), and during all that " voyage," until his own
capture.

The Royal Wardrobe Accounts of that date contain entries of
payments to several persons who had been taken prisoners by " the
enemies of France," in aid of their "ransom." Among others
Chaucer received 16/. of the King's gift on 1st March, 1360, and
George, a yeoman of the Countess of Ulster, received 10Z. ; but
the two names do not occur together, and it does not appear that
Chaucer was at this time in the Countess's service. Prof. Skeat,
however, considers that he was serving in Duke Lionel's retinue,
which may well be, for even in 1361 Chaucer is not named in the
Royal Wardrobe Accounts among the members of the King's House
hold. The Countess died in 1362, and some years after, in 1368,
the Prince went with a large retinue to Milan to marry his second
wife ; but Chaucer did not accompany him on that occasion, as has
been alleged, for the records here printed show that he was then in
the King's Household, and remained in England.

CHAUCER'S WIFE PHILIPPA.

Of Chaucer's life between 1360 and 1366 we have absolutely no
information, but it seems quite certain that he was in the King's
service during the greater part of that period, as- he received an
annuity from the King at the end of it. In the latter year we find
him apparently married to a Lady of the Court named Philippa, but
for some years following, down to 1374, she is so persistently
named " Philippa Chaucer," without any reference to her husband,
that it might almost be imagined that her maiden name was
Chaucer, and that the marriage did not really take place till later.

xvi Who was Chaucer's Wife, Philippa ? A Swynford ?

Kightly to comprehend Chaucer's relations at Court, it is first of
all needful to ascertain who his wife really was. According to
Speght, who did not know her Christian name, she was sister of
Katherine de Swynford, who was wife first of Sir Hugh 1 de Swynford,
and, after his death in 1372, the mistress, and in 1396 the wife of
John of Gaunt. She was also governess to the Duke's two daughters,
Philippa and Elizabeth. He further alleges that Katherine
and the poet's wife were daughters of one Sir Payne Eoet, whose
tomb, according to Weever and Dugdale, was in St. Paul's. The
inscription thereon is said to have stated that Roet was Guienne
King of Anns in the reign of Edward III. ; and this seems to be all
that is known of him.2

That Philippa was a sister of Katherine may also be inferred from
the letter of Bishop Beaufort, son of John of Gaunt, who calls
Thomas Chaucer his cousin (No. 286). This is an important piece
of evidence, as yet unnoticed by biographers ; but this view . of
it does not remove Nicolas's objection that Katherine appears to have
been sole heiress of a De Roet or Roelt, of Hainault,3 and that there
fore Philippa could not have been her sister, assuming that the
latter was mother of Thomas, who laid no claim to the inheritance,
as Sir Thomas Swynford, Katherine's son, did. Nicolas further
remarks that it is singular, if Chaucer was the brother-in-law of John
of Gaunt, as he was if this view is correct, " that he should not have
attained a higher station in society," and that neither Geoffrey nor
Thomas is mentioned in the Duke's will, nor in any of the printed
wills of the Beaufort family.

WAS PHILIPPA A KOET OR A SWYNFORD 1

These objections might be surmounted by supposing Philippa to

1 Nicolas says "Thomas " (p. 113) ; but see Sir Hugh's Inquisition.

2 In the Academy, Jan. 30, 1886, p. 78, Mr. Rye wrote as follows : "The very
existence of this knight has been doubted ; and considering Chaucer's con
nexion with the wine-trade, it is much more likely she (Philippa) was related
to Nicholas Rote, a. Bordeaux merchant, who was a trier of wine at London in
1377, and John Rote, an alderman of London in 1387 (Riley's Memorials of
London Life, pp. 409, 490, 504)." This, however, has not been made out.
Simon Rote, citizen and skinner of London, 13 Edw. III., Arnold, son of
Simon and Isabella Rote, 18 Edw. III., John Rote, of London, 39 Edw. III.,
and Thomas Rote, of Surrey, 50 Edw. III., occur on the Close Rolls. John Rote
and Joan his wife occur in the Essex Fines, 22 Ric. II.

3 Nicolas, pp. 50, 108 ; quoting Patent Roll, 13 Hen. IV., p. 1, m. 35 ;
Rymer, viii. 104. This patent is printed and translated in Bentley's Excerpta
Historica, pp. 157, 158, in a long article on the Swynford family. It does not
positively state that Katherine was an heiress, but this must be inferred.

Was Chaucer's Wife Philippa a Swynford or a Roet ? xvii

have been, not sister, but sister-in-law to Katherine Eoet; that is to
say, sister to Sir Hugh de Swynford, Katherine's tirst husband. In
support of this view may be alleged (1) the obviously close relation
ship between the Chaucers and the Swynfords ; (2) the fact that
Philippa appears to have belonged to Lincolnshire, the home of the
Swynfords, while Katherine apparently did not; and (3) that a
branch of the Swynford family was settled in London, with whom
the Chaucers may have been acquainted.

As to the first point, there are the documents relating to
Elizabeth Chaucer and Margaret Swynford,1 who were both Nuns in
the Abbey of Barking. The former is supposed to have been a sister
of Geoffrey Chaucer, and was at first nominated to the Priory of
St. Helen's, London, in 1377, on the very same day when Margaret
Swynford was ordered to be admitted into Barking Abbey ; and in
1381 Elizabeth was admitted a Nun in the same Abbey, on which
occasion John of Gaunt paid the large sum of 5 1/. 8s. 2d. in expenses
and gifts. If there were two Elizabeths, the argument remains
unaffected. Again, Sir Thomas Swynford was admitted into the
fraternity of Lincoln Cathedral at the same time as Philippa, but
Katherine, his mother, was not.2

As to the second point, there is no proof that Katherine Root
belonged to Lincolnshire before she married Sir Hugh Swynford,
who had lands in that county, or for some time after his death.
Towards the end of her life, however, she resided at Lincoln, where
she was married to John of Gaunt in 1396, and she was buried in
Lincoln Cathedral in 1403.3 On the other hand, the Swynfords were
landowners in Lincolnshire, as well as in Huntingdonshire and
Northamptonshire. In 1341 Margaret, widow of Thomas de Swynford,
and in 1343 John de Swynford, her son and heir, died seised of lands

1 No. 144, and Additions, Nos. 6, 7.

2 No. 186. The grant to Chaucer of the office of Controller of the Customs
(No. 107) is immediately preceded by a ratification of the estate of Katherine
de Swynford in certain manors which she held by grant of John of Gaunt ; but
this may be referable to her connexion with Philippa rather than Geoffrey. Sir
Thomas Swynford and Thomas Chaucer, Esquire, were feoffees with others of
John Stodele, of lands in co. Huntingdon, in 1404. (Ancient Deeds, B. 3199.)
In 1404, an Elizabeth de Swynford was elected Prioress of Catesby, in North
amptonshire, where she was still living in the reign of Henry V., but that may
not have been her original name, as the religious usually dropped their own
names, and took those of the places from wli 'noe they came. (Dugdale, IV.
636, referring to "Reg. Beaufort." Ancient Deeds, vol. III., D. 1038.)

3 Dictionary of National Biography.

LIFE-RECORDS, I. b

xviii Tlte Lincolnshire $ London Swynfords. O.'.s1 Court-interest.

in Nocton and Dunston, just outside the city of Lincoln.1 An
Edmund and a Norman do Swynford, who possessed lands in Lincoln
shire, are mentioned about the same time.2 In 1361 Sir Thomas de
Swynford was succeeded in various Lincolnshire properties by Hugh,
his son and heir, then aged 21 years. In 1372 Sir Hugh Swynford
died seised of the same, leaving Katherine his widow, and Thomas his
son and heir, aged four years.1 This last was the Sir Thomas before
mentioned, who was contemporary with Thomas Chaucer. He died
in 1432, leaving another Sir Thomas, his son and heir, aged
26. His widow, Margery, was wife of Sir John Darcy in 144 1.3

As to the third point, it may be a question whether Geoffrey
met Philippa at Court, or made her acquaintance through the
Swynfords of London. In the Husting Deeds we meet with Richard
de k Swynford, citizen and woolmonger, and Agnes his wife, holding
property in Marte Lane in 1345 ; and Richard again occurs in 1348,
when he had property in All Hallows Barking. His will was
proved in the Husting in 1352-3. He had four brothers and
sisters, not named, and two daughters. His daughter Margery, or
Margaret, is mentioned in 1371, 1375, and 1397, as the wife of
Richard Turk, senior, fishmonger, and as having property in All
Hallows Barking.4 But it is clear that the Nun Margaret was not
the daughter of Richard Swynford of the same name ; more probably
she was a relative of Sir Hugh Swynford, and if so, of Philippa.

This is all that could be discovered in favour of this view of the
matter after considerable searches ; and of course, if Philippa were
not an heiress we should expect to find little or nothing about her,
as the records do not generally mention daughters where there were
sons. But whether Philippa was a Roet or a Swynford,5 Chaucer
would and did, through her, increase his interest at the courts of
Edward III. and Richard II., and at that of John of Gaunt, though
he did not actually become related by marriage to the great King-
Duke till within a few years of his death. If Philippa was not a

1 Inquisitiones post mortem.

2 Coram Rege Rolls, Hilary, 14 Edw. Ill, m. 3d., and Hilary, 26 Edw.
III., m. 6 (Plantagenet Harrison's Collections). Feet of Fines, Divers
Counties, 19 and 20 Edw. III.

3 Coram Rege Roll, Trinity, 19 Hen. VI., m. 91, 400 d.

4 From Dr. Sharpe's Calendars.

5 Burke states that one branch of the Swynford family bore the same arms
as the Roets, viz. three Katherine wheels. But these Swynfords may have
been descendants of Katherine.

1JJ 66-7. Annuities of 10 Maries to C.'s Wife, $ 20 Marks to him. xix

Swynford, but a Roet, we must then conclude that the two sisters
and co-heiresses had lands only in France, and none in England, and
that they may have been born in France. These suggestions will
have to be re-considered further on in the light of what may prove to
be a most important piece of new evidence.

CHAUCER AND HIS WIFE'S ANNUITIES FROM THE KING.

By a patent of 12th September, 1366, Philippa Chaucer, as one
of the " Domicellse " of Queen Philippa, obtained an annuity of ten
marks from the King, in recognition of her " good service " to the
Queen. The payment was to continue for her life, or until the King
should make other provision " for her estate." She is not described
as the wife of Geoffrey, and such an omission in a formal patent
is truly remarkable. The Issue Rolls of the Exchequer show
that this annuity was paid, with some irregularities, from June, 1367,
to June, 1387. It is difficult to find a precise translation for
" Domicella," though in the French records of the time its equivalent
is " Danioiselle." l Devon freely renders it " Maid of Honour " ;
and it is also translated by Bentley as " Lady in Waiting." Probably
Philippa had only recently been married to Geoffrey, but the terms
of the grant indicate that she had been for some years previous in
the Queen's service.

By a similar patent, on 20th June, 1367, the King granted an
annuity of twenty marks to his " beloved Yeoman " Geoffrey Chaucer,
in consideration of his good service, and with the same limitation as
in Philippa's grant. This likewise implies that Geoffrey had been
in the King's service for some years. The payments by the Exchequer
of his annuity begin in November, 1367, and continue, also with
some irregularities, down to February, 1389.

CHAUCER AS THE KING'S ESQUIRE.

Although Geoffrey was only a " Yeoman " in the King's
Chamber, his proper rank was an " Esquire," as we have already
seen ; but this station was not really a lower one ; young men of
higher degree than an esquire were happy to obtain such an
introduction to the King's presence. However, it was not long
before Geoffrey was promoted to be an Esquire in the King's House-
1 This does not imply that she was unmarried.— Nicolas, p. 111.

xx 1368-9. Gifts of Roles to Chaucer and Ids Wife.

hold. The duties of such Esquires and Yeomen are fully set
out in Dr. FurnivalFs edition of the Household Ordinances of
Edward II.1

It may once for all be remarked here that this and other rewards
given to Chaucer from time to time for his "good service" do not
appear to include in that term any consideration for his poetical
talents. The following remark by Devon clearly therefore does not
apply to him : " From the most early times the Kings of England
have always had a dependant called the King's Poet, or the King's
Verstfieator." 2

In an undated " Roll of the Lords and other persons of the
Household" of Edward III., which has been assigned both by
Nicolas and Selby to 1368, Philippa Chaucer is named among the
" Damoiselles," and Geoffrey Chaucer among the "Esquires." In
March, 1369, there is an order to the Wardrobe-keeper for the
delivery of robes with furs to Philippa, as a " Damoiselle," due at
the Christmas previous ; and according to the roll of the Controller,
Geoffrey, as one of the " Esquires and servants of the Household,"
received 20s. at Whitsuntide for his summer robes. In September
there is a warrant to the Wardrobe-Keeper for a certain quantity of
black cloth to be delivered to each of them, "against" the fuii'-ral
of Queen Philippa, at Windsor. The warrant mentions Philippa
Chaucer along with Alice Perrers and others, but without any
description ; Blanche Swynford among the " Damoiselles " of " the
two daughters -of Lancaster" ; and Geoffrey among the " Esquires of
lesser degree." On 7th November Philippa's pension was paid to
her by the hands of John de Hermesthorp.

In the same year, 1369, "at the beginning of the war" with
France, advances of money were made to " divers men of the King's
household," for " their wages and expenses at divers times," by Henry
de Wakefeld, Keeper of the King's Wardrobe. Among them
Geoffrey received the sum of 10/., for which he was to account,
but a few years afterwards he was excused from doing so by the
King's writ.3 The Keeper also paid to John of Gaunt and many

1 Life- Records, II. 18, 19. - See also Edward IV. '8 Ordinances, published by
the Society of Antiquaries, 1790.

2 Devon's Issue Rolls, 44 Edw. III., p. xxix. He gives, however, only one
instance from the rolls of 41 Henry III., that of Master Henry de Abrinces (qu.
de Abrincis = d'Avranches), the Versifier, who received six pence a day.

3 Nos. 74, 77.

1370-3. Cliaucer's Wife's Annuities. His Mission to Italy, xxi
noblemen, bannerets, knights, esquires, and others, their " wages of

war.

"i

In the Exchequer rolls Chaucer continues to be called " the
King's Yeoman," or "Yeoman of the King's Household," down
to December, 1371 ; but this was evidently a quotation from
the original grant of the annuity.2 In June, 1372, and long after
wards, they gave him his proper title, " the King's Esquire " ; yet in
November, 1372, November, 1373, and May, 1376, they relapse to
" Yeoman " simply.

On 25th April, 1370, Chaucer's pension was paid to him by the
hands of Walter Walssh. In June he was going abroad in the
King's service, and had royal letters of protection. At this time
Edward III. was making his last campaign in France, but we learn
nothing about Chaucer's share in it. He did not take his second
half-yearly payment till 28th November. Philippa's pension, due at
Easter, was not paid that term, nor for many subsequent terms. In
August, 1372, a pension of 10/. a year was granted to her by John of
Gaunt, in consideration of her service to his late consort, Queen
Blanche, who had died in 1369. In the grant she is described by the
Duke as "nostre bien anie Damoysele Philippe Chause," withoutany
indication that she was Geoffrey's wife.

CHAUCER'S MISSION TO ITALY.

In November, 1372, Geoffrey was commissioned with two others
to treat with the Doge and citizens of Genoa for the establishment
of a market in some place on the English coast where the Genoese
merchants might resort with their goods. On 1st December, at his
departure from London, he received 66?. 13s. 4<£ from the Exchequer,
on account of his expenses, and on 23rd March, 1373, 33?. from Sir
Jaques de Provan,3 one of his fellow Commissioners ; and we have
his account of receipts and expenditure during his " voyage " down
to 23rd May, 1373, when he returned to London, showing that he
had both men and horses in his train, and that there was a balance
due to him of '251. 6s. 8d.

He states in his account that he went to Florence as well as to

1 P. 176. 2 See Dr. Furnivall's remarks, Life- Records, II. xii.

3 The name is clearly written Pronau in No. 72, where the n's and u's are
differently shaped.

xxii Chaucer home from Italy. His Wine. Hi* Rooms over Aldyate.

Genoa ; and Prof. Skcat considers that he must also have visited
Petrarch, " who resided chiefly at Arqua, within easy reach of
Padua, in 1370-4." The Clerkes Tale refers to Petrarch's being at
Padua itself, and it seems to be the fact that war drove him into that
city in the winter of 1372-3, and that he stayed there till the
autumn of 1373.1 Hence Chaucer must have been personally
acquainted with the fact of Petrarch's residence in Padua, and it can
hardly be doubted that he visited his great Italian contemporary on
this occasion.2

After Chaucer's return he received an allowance of 40s. for his
winter and summer robes, as one of the " Esquires of the King's
Chamber " ; but the balance of his travelling expenses was not paid
him till 4th January, 1374, although the warrant for their payment,
itself tardy, was issued on llth November previous. While he was
absent in Italy, Philippa, among other ladies, received a new year's
gift from John of Gaunt, consisting of " a buttoner and six silver-
gilt buttons."

A WINE-GRANT TO CHAUCER.

On 23rd April, 1374, being St. George's Day, at Windsor, the
King granted to Chaucer a pitcher of wine daily, which he was to
receive from the King's Butler or his deputy, in the Port of London.
Thus Chaucer renewed his acquaintance with the City, from which
he had been absent probably for at least seventeen years, with the'
exception of the occasions when his lady the Countess Elizabeth,
or his Royal master were in or near the City ; but he may not have
been bound to receive the wine in person, certainly not every day.

It seems, however, to have been understood that he was
likely to settle in London, for on 10th May, 1374, he took
a lease from the Corporation of "all the mansion above (or
dwelling over) the gate of Aldgate," with the "houses" built
thereupon — outhouses no doubt being meant — and with a cellar
under the gate on the east side. He was to hold these premises
for the term of his life, and he covenanted to keep them in

1 See Dr. Jusserand's article in the Nineteenth Century, June, 1896. — F. J. F.

2 Prof. Lounsbury has expressed his doubts about this supposed meeting ;
and further arguments against it have been stated by Mr. F. J. Mather in
Modern Language Notes, vols. xi, xii, 1896-7, in two papers on Chaucer's
"First Italian Journey," where he has printed Chaucer's Account in full ;
but Dr. Jusserand's article seems to be more conclusive.

1374. Chaucer's Aldyate Rooms. His ControllersJtip of Customs, xxiii

good repair, power being reserved to the City Chamberlain to view
them at any time, and to require any needful repairs to be made.
Chaucer was not at liberty to underlet, and the Commonalty under
took not to make any prison there, but reserved liberty to dispose of
the buildings, if necessary, for the defence of the City. The fact of
his taking this lease tends to show that he had not retained any
property in the City, even if he had inherited any from his parents.

CHAUCER AT THE CUSTOM-HOUSE.

Soon after, on 8th June, Chaucer obtained another patent from
the King, appointing him Controller of the Custom and Subsidy of
wools, hides, and wool-fells in the Port of London during the King's
pleasure, on condition that he should write " his rolls touching the
said office" with his own hand, and personally "dwell there" and
perform the duties, without any " substitute " ; and the " other part
of the coket seal " was to remain in his custody. The obligation of
personal attendance appears to have been usual in patents of this
kind.

In the copy of this patent enrolled in the Exchequer there are
additional clauses appointing him also Controller of the Petty
Custom of wines, cloths, and other merchandise in the same port ;
but these could hardly have taken effect, since they are not on the
Patent Roll, and later documents do not describe him by this further
title, until he finally obtained it in 1382.

The enrolled accounts of the two Collectors of Customs and
Subsidies in the Port of London are numerous and lengthy, but only
the portions relating to Chaucer or matters concerning him have been
extracted. These accounts were made under the survey, as we should
say, or " by the view and testimony," as the records have it,
of Chaucer as Controller, and show payments to him at the rate
of 10/. a year. It is stated that the jurisdiction of these officers
extended from London to Gravesend and Tilbury. A custom-house
was hired at the rent of 60s. a year for gathering the customs
and " for doing other things necessary therein," and there it was that
Chaucer would attend to oversee the receipts and payments. A
single " boatman" was thought to be sufficient " to keep the Water
of Thames," or, in other words, to see that goods were not landed
anywhere in the port without paying the dues.

xxiv 1374-86. C.'s Customs Accounts. His Jn. of Gaunt Annuity.

The Collectors were mostly famous citizens of the period.
In 1374 they were John de Bernes and Nicholas de Brembre;
in 1375, Brembre and William de Wai worth ; in 1376, John Warde
and Robert Girdelere ; in 1377, Warde and Richard Northbury ;
from 1378 to 1386, Brembre again and John Philipot, who were both
knighted ; and from 1384 to 1386, Brembre and John Organ.

Although the Customs' accounts are described as being the
Collectors', it is probable that they were really kept by Chaucer.
The enrolled. accounts are of course merely copies of accounts sent
into the Exchequer, but there are two original accounts during
Chaucer's term of office which may possibly be in his own handwriting,
but this is hardly likely. The headings of these accounts are by
different hands from those of the bodies of them, and the first of
the two headings was evidently written by some one unaccustomed to
the work, and here we may have a specimen of Chaucer's penman
ship. If so, it would follow that he did not observe one of
the terms of his appointment, that he should keep the accounts in
his own hand, unless his first drafts were so roughly written as
to require a fair copy for presentation at the Exchequer. However,
having taken a house at Aldgate, he no doubt attended personally to
the duties of his office, as he was required to do.1

HIS ANNUITY FROM JOHN OF GAUNT.

On 12th June, 1374, in the Court of Exchequer, Chaucer took his
oath as Controller; and the very next day, at the Savoy, he received
a grant from Duke John of Gaunt of an annuity of 10Z. for life, as a
reward for his own good services to the Dnke, and for those of
Philippa his wife to the late Queen Philippa and to the Duke's
consort, Queen Blanche. The Duchy of Lancaster Registers contain
several later warrants for the payment of this annuity. Nicolas
supposed that it was granted in lieu or commutation of the
Duke's pension to Philippa ; but this was not so, for her pension
continued to be paid.

It is noteworthy that the Duke's patent of 12th June, 1374, is
the first document which mentions Philippa as wife of Geoffrey ;
and that just as she was the first of the two to obtain a pension from

1 Prof. Hales gives a sketch of Chaucer's daily life at this time in the
Home Counties Magazine, ii. 253-259.

1374-5. C/iaucer's Income. His Wardship of E. Stapleyate. xxv

the King, so in like manner her pension from the Duke was granted
some years before her husband's. From this it may be gathered that
Geoffrey owed much to his wife's influence, and that she was of
higher standing than he in the Eoyal and Ducal households.

They were now in receipt of a considerable income. Geoffrey
was receiving 131. 6s. Sd. yearly from the King, a pitcher of wine
daily (of about the same value), 101. from the Controllership,
as appears in the later accounts, and 10/. from the Duke, while his
wife's two pensions amounted to 16/. 13s. 4c?. ; in all, 63Z. 6*. 8e£., or
more than 1000?. a year of our money.

Philippa's annuity from the King was paid to the hands of her
husband on 6th July, 1374, 24th January and 20th October, 1375,
31st May and 27th November, 1376. After this last date it does
not appear to have been paid for two years and a half, nor is she
mentioned in John of Gaunt's accounts at Easter, 1377. Few of
the Duke's accounts have been preserved, and so we are not able to
trace the payments of his pensions to Geoffrey and Philippa from
time to time.

OTHER GRANTS TO* CHAUCER.

Several of the new facts in the life of Chaucer here recorded
relate to the county of Kent, with which, Prof. Skeat could only
say, " he would seem to have had some connexion." l The grant to
Chaucer on 8th November, 1375, of the custody or wardship of the
lands and heir of Edmund Staplegate, a merchant of London,2 led
me to inspect the Inquisition taken on his death, from which
it appears that Staplegate was lord of the manor of Bilsington 3 in
that county, which he held by the service of rendering three cups of
maple at the King's Coronation ; and that he held messuages and
lands in Canterbury and its suburb, in gavelkind, to which last
Staplegate's three sons were joint heirs ; but Chaucer would have the
wardship only of the eldest son, Edmund, in respect of the manor.
This Edmund is said to have been 18J years of age in 1372 ; which
must be erroneous, as he would thus be 22 years old at the date of the
grant to Chaucer. It is likely that Chaucer made several journeys
to Canterbury on this business ; and Edmund Staplegate, junior, in
his claim to exercise the office of Butler at Kichard II. 's Coronation,

1 Life, p. xxxv. 2 See p. 169.

3 He acquired it in 32 Ed\v. III. (1358). — Inquisitiones ad quod dammim.

t
xxvi 1375-7. Grants to Chaucer. Missions to Flanders $ France.

in opposition to the claim of the Earl of Arundel, alleges that he
paid Chaucer 104Z. for his wardship and marriage;1 but he did
not succeed in his claim, which was tried before the Duke of
Lancaster at the White Hall, on 9th July, 1377.

Very shortly after, on 28th December, 1375, Chaucer had the
grant of another Kentish wardship, namely, of the heir of John de
Solys, who had some rents in Soles, in the parish of Nonington ; but
how much he received from this source is not known.

In the next year, 1376, Chaucer had a grant of the large sum of
71Z. 4s. 6d., being the price of wool exported by one John Kent
of London without licence, and without paying custom. The three
grants last mentioned may have brought him a sum equal in
our present currency to about four thousand pounds.

CHAUCER'S MISSIONS TO FLANDERS AND FRANCE.

Towards the close of the same year he was appointed by the
King's command to go, whither not stated, in the retinue of Sir John
de Burley, " on the King's secret affairs, with which he (Sir John)
was charged by the Lord the King himself." Chaucer received a
payment of 6/. 13s. Ad. on account, and Sir John had double that
amount, for their " wages," but no particulars of their journey have
been discovered.2

On 12th February, 1377, letters of protection were issued to
Chaucer, he being about to go abroad in the King's service, and they
were to be valid till Michaelmas. From the Exchequer rolls it
appears that Sir Thomas de Percy and Chaucer were sent to Flanders
"on the King's secret affairs" — Percy receiving 33/. 6s. 8d., and
Chaucer 10Z., on account of their expenses. Shortly after John
Gilbert, Bishop of Hereford, Lord Cobham, and two others were sent
to Flanders " to treat of peace between the Lord the King and his
adversary of France." What connexion there was between these two
missions does not appear, but Chaucer was not included in the royal
commission of 20th February.3 Froissart, however, names him and
two others, Sir Guichard d' Angle and Sir Richard Sturry,4 as

1 Speght says this payment was recorded in the Exchequer.

2 Neither of them rendered any account of their receipts and expenses,
apparently. There is an account by Burley relating to his mission to Calais,
11 Aug.— 5 Sept. 49 Edw. III., 1375, in the Foreign Accounts, 51 Edw.
III., D.

3 Abstracts of this and the later commissions are given on p. 204.

4 He had been a fellow-prisoner with Chaucer in 1359-60 (p. 154).

1377. Chaucer's two Missions to France. His Wages, xxvii

the English commissioners, though none of them are mentioned in
the commission. Chaucer's account of his receipts and expenses
during this mission state that he quitted London on 17th February,
and that he really went to Paris and Montreuil, returning to London
on 25th March, after an absence of thirty-seven days. He does not
mention having had any attendants on this occasion ; probably they
were included in Percy's account. On llth April the King gave him
a reward of 20/. for going on " divers voyages " to foreign parts in
the King's service ; which seems to allude partly to his previous
mission with Burley. On 28th April Chaucer had a fresh
protection, which was to be valid till 1st August; and his account
further shows that he was employed on another mission to France
" between 30th April and 26th June, for fourteen days," being
attended by "men and horses." His " wages " during both these
missions were 13s. 4t7. a day, with an extra allowance of 20s. for
the passage and repassage of the sea on the second occasion.

This second expedition was coincident with the second royal
commission to treat of peace, directed to the Bishops of St. David's
and Hereford and others ; but here again Chaucer is not named, and
Froissart says nothing about Chaucer being present during the
renewed negociations. Stow, however, in his Annals, asserts that in
April Chaucer was "sent into France to treat a peace" along with
the two Bishops. But the commissioners, according to Froissart,
could not even agree upon a meeting-place between Montreuil and
Calais ; so the truce was prolonged for only a brief period, and the
war broke out again.

Nicolas notes that "in June, 1377, the poet being then on his
mission in France, Philippa's annuity was paid to her by the hands
of Sir Roger de Trumpington, whose wife, Lady Blanche de
Trumpington, was, like herself, in the service of the Duchess of
Lancaster." *

GRANTS BY RICHARD II. TO CHAUCER.

On the first day of his reign, 22nd June, 1377, King Richard II.
confirmed Chaucer in his office of Controller of the Custom and
Subsidy of wools, hides, and wool-fells in the Port of London, under
the same conditions as before. The Account of the Wardrobe-

1 Additions, No. 5. Nicolas' s previous reference to " November, 1374," is
a mistake for " 1369." — Life, p. 50.

xxviii 1377-8. C. sent to France § Lombardy. His two Annuities.

keeper shows that 40s. was still allowed to Chaucer for winter and
summer robes as the King's Esquire ; and he was also allowed
71. 2s. Q^d., in money apparently, for his daily " gallon " or "pitcher "
of wine, from 14th October, 1376, to 21st June, 1377. From some
brief entries in the Pipe Eolls it appears that Chaucer was receiving
"wages within the King's Household."

On 16th January, 1378, three commissions were issued for the
renewal of negociations with France for peace, and for a marriage
between Richard II. and the daughter of the French King. Chaucer
is not mentioned in any of them, though he was sent to France
especially to treat the marriage, as stated in a record dated three
years later, when he received 221. for his services on this and the
previous occasions (No. 143). Froissart appears to have confused the
last two missions, but he was quite right in connecting Chaucer with
the marriage treaty.

How long Chaucer remained abroad is not known, but on
9th March, described as " of London," he became surety for Sir
William Beauchamp, who was then appointed to the custody of the
Castle and County of Pembroke. Sir William was subsequently a
witness to the Chaumpaigne deed, and appears to have had close
relations with Chaucer.

On 23rd March, 1378, Richard II. confirmed Chaucer's annuity
of twenty marks of his " especial grace," because, as he states, he
had retained Chaucer to attend upon him in person (penes nos) ; but
this could hardly have been the case in reality, as Chaucer was bound
to attend to the duties of the Control lership, and nothing about him
has been found in the later Household and Wardrobe Accounts of
Richard II. Three days after, the King confirmed Philippa Chaucer's
annuity of ten marks, but the patent does not imply that she was
in attendance at Court. On 18th April the King granted to
Chaucer, for his good service, another annuity of twenty marks, " in
recompense " for his daily pitcher of wine, the patent for which he
had surrendered.

CHAUCER'S MISSION TO LOMBARDY.

On 10th May letters of protection were granted to Chaucer, about
to go abroad in the King's service, and on 21st May he had " the
King's letters of general attorney, under the names of John Gower
(the poet) and Richard Forester," in all the Courts of England,

1378-80. 0. in Lomlardy. Ifis l Raptus ' of C. Chaumpaif/ne. xxix

during his absence. From the account of " the Issues of the Wars,"
of the moneys for which William Wai worth and John Philipot were
the Receivers, it appears that Chaucer was at this time " sent in the
retinue " of Sir Edward de Berkeley to the parts of Lombardy, "as
well to the Lord of Milan (Bernabb Visconti), as to (Sir) John
Hawkwood, for certain affairs touching the expedition of the King's
war." At the same time Duke John of Gaunt was sent to sea with
a large retinue of knights, esquires, and archers ; while the Earl of
Huntingdon and others were still in Flanders negociating with the
King's "adversary of France." In Chaucer's account of his receipts
and expenses it is stated that he left London on 28th May, and
returned on 19th September; and that he received "such daily
wages as were allowed to other esquires of his estate " in similar
missions during the reigns of Edward III. and Richard II., with
" reasonable costs " for his passage and repassage of the sea. Writs
relating to this and a previous " voyage " will be found among the
" Additions." His total expenses were 80Z. 13s. 4d., or 14<?. more
than the moneys paid him on account by Walworth and Philipot ;
but this balance was subsequently repaid to him.

In 1379 and 1380 Geoffrey and Philippa were still receiving their
annuities from John of Gaunt. Philippa is called by the Duke
"nostre chere et bien amee Damoiselle," and on New Year's day,
1380, he presented four gilt cups to as many ladies, one being
Philippa Chaucer. It would seem therefore that she was in attend
ance on the Duke's second wife, the Duchess Constance. On 21st
May, 1379, her annuity from the King was paid by assignment,
" by the hands of John Yerneburgh " ; and on 4th May, 1380, it
was paid to her " by the hands of William Bagot."

THE RAPTUS OF CECILY CHAUMPAIGNE.

We now come to a deed about which there has been much
speculation. It is the deed dated 1st May, 1380, by Cecily
Chaumpaigne, daughter of " the late " William Chaumpaigne
and Agnes his wife, releasing to Geoffrey Chaucer, Esquire, "all
actions as well concerning my raptus, as concerning any other
matter or cause." Whether this referred to a civil or criminal offence
has been discussed at great length by Dr. Furnivall and the late Mr.
Floyd. Prof. Skeat makes the important suggestion that* 'it may

xxx C.'s Raptus of C. Gliaumpaigne. Sale of his Father's House.

be connected with the fact that his (Chaucer's) ' little son Lowis '
was ten years old in 1391, as we learn from the Prologue to the
Treatise of the Astrolabe" ; but two other deeds evidently relating to
the same matter have more recently been discovered by Dr. Sharpe,
both being dated 28th June in the same year, and seem to throw
a different light on the subject. One is a release by Richard
Goodchild, cutler, and John Grove, armourer, citizens of London,
to Chaucer, of " all actions, plaints, and demands by reason
of any trespass, covenant, contract, account, debt, or other matter
whatsoever, real or personal." The other is a release by Cecily
Chaumpaigne to Goodchild and Grove of " all actions, plaints, and
demands, as well real as personal" Much of this may be merely
the legal verbiage of the time, but these two deeds, taken in
connexion with Cecily's first deed, certainly seem to point to a civil
abduction, in which other persons besides Chaucer were concerned.
Possibly John Grove was the principal offender, as he a few days
later entered into a bond to Cecily for the payment of ten pounds.1
The civil "raptus" of John Chaucer has been mentioned before.
At a later date, as we shall see, Geoffrey was appointed Justice in a
case of " raptus " and abduction, which was certainly a civil matter.

Other new years' presents were made to Philippa by John
of Gaunt in 1381 and 1382, of silver-gilt cups with covers, one
on each occasion ; and on 1st February, 24th May, and 21st
December, 1381, her annuity from the King was paid to her
husband. On 6th March Geoffrey had a gift of 221. for his services
in France in 1377 and 1378, as before stated.

The deed of release by Chaucer to Henry Herbury of his father's
house has been previously noticed. It is dated 19th June, 1381,
but of course the actual conveyance may have taken place long
before. If it had belonged to him when he was about to be
appointed Controller of the Customs, it is hardly likely that he
would have taken a lease of the house in Aldgate. The situation of

1 A John de Chaumpeigne, chaplain, was made prisoner by the French in
1359, at the same time as Chaucer (p. 154). In 1379, Robert Chaumpayn,
saddler, son of William Chaumpayn, formerly citizen and saddler of London,
evidently a brother of Cecily, failed to pay 52Z. due on a recognisance to
Robert Boxford, clothworker, and the Sheriffs of London were ordered to
imprison him, and to extend and appraise his lands and chattels. They
returned that he was not found, and that he had no goods, but that he had a
tenement and six shops in Goder-lane and "Westchepe, worth yearly 17/. 11s.,
which were delivered to Boxford. (Inquisitions, 3 Ric. II., No. 90.)

1381-3. Chaucer Controller of Hie Petty Customs. Loan to him. xxxi

his father's house in Thames Street would have been very convenient
to him after his appointment.

In 1381 and several subsequent years Brembre and Philipot,
as Collectors of the Customs, and Chaucer, as Controller, received
special rewards from the King " for their assiduous labour and
diligence by them applied in their offices . . . about the collection
of the moneys arising from the same Custom and Subsidy." The
Collectors' share was 20Z. each, and Chaucer's 61. 13-5. 4d., yearly.
It is probable that Chaucer first had a portion of these rewards in
1379.1

THE CONTROLLERSH1P OF THE PETTY CUSTOMS.

On 20th April, 1382, Chaucer at length obtained the office
of Controller of the Petty Custom in the Port of London, before
referred to, and was to hold it during the King's pleasure. A second
patent of the same office was made to him on 8th May, empowering
him " to exercise " the office " by himself or his sufficient deputy, for
whom he would be willing to answer." Consequently there is
no provision for his keeping the accounts in his own hand, and no
original accounts of this office have been found during his tenure of
it, only the enrolled accounts of the Collectors of the Petty
Customs, under his survey, being preserved. Both his patents gave
him " the wages accustomed," but none of these Collectors' accounts
mention any payment to him, and so we do not know how much
he derived from this source.

Chaucer appears to have received his wife's annuity as well as
his own on 22nd July and llth November, 1382. Brembre and
Philipot's accounts show that in this year new weights were,
in pursuance of a royal writ, provided by the Collectors for the
weighing of wools in the Weigh-house situate in the City of London,
as testified by Chaucer, the Controller. From the Petty Customs'
accounts it is once more evident that there was as yet no established
Custom-house, as rent was paid for a house " for collecting and
keeping the customs in."

On 27th February, 1383, Chaucer obtained the very small loan
of 6s. Sd. from the Exchequer on account of his annuity, or "a
certain yearly fee," as it is here called. In the November and
December previous he had duly received his usual payments from the

1 No. 129, note.

xxxii 1383-5. The Custom-House. Chaucer may appoint a

Exchequer. Was he in difficulties at this time 1 He repaid his loan
on 30th June, but it is strange that it was not deducted from
the usual payments to him in May of his own and his wife's
annuities.

DESCRIPTION OP THE FIRST1 CUSTOM-HOUSE.

In the Customs' accounts of 1383 it is stated that one John
Churcheman had built a house " for the quiet of the merchants, upon
the quay called Wool-wharf, in the Tower Ward, in the parish of
All Saints of Barking Church, between the quay of Paul Salesbury,
on the east side, and the lane called Watergate, on the west side, to
serve for the tronage (or weighing) of wools in the Port " of London ;
and that the King had granted that the tronage should be " held "
there during Churcheman's life. The King's balances and weights
were to be kept in this house, in which there was also a compter or
counting-office for the Customers, the Controller, clerks, and other
officers. The compter was "disposed" in a solar or upper floor,
adjoining to which there was also a little room, "pro latrina" ; and
over this solar there was another, 38 feet by 21, containing
two chambers and a garret, for the more ample accommodation of the
same officers. The King paid a yearly rent of 40$. for the house and
the first solar, and 40s. more for the other solar and the little room,
which were not at first rented from Churcheman. Here no doubt
Chaucer would carry on his labours.

In the next year, however, on 25th November, he obtained the
King's licence to be absent from his office of " Controller of the
Customs and Subsidies" for one month; and in February, 1385,
he petitioned the King for leave to appoint a permanent deputy " at
the Wool-quay." The King granted his prayer, and on 17th
February a formal licence was made out in his favour accordingly.
He was now free from the personal attendance in his office which he
had been bound to render for more than ten years, that is, ever since
June, 1374.

Meanwhile he had continued to receive his own and his wife's
pensions; but on 20th September, 1385, a loan of 4£. 6s. ScL, or
more than a half-yearly instalment, was made to Philippa, " by the
hands of John Hermesthorp, one of the two Chamberlains " of the
Exchequer, who had once before received her pension.
1 Cunningham's Handbook of London.

Chaucer a Justice of the Peace. His Wife a Lincoln Sister, xxxiii

CHAUCER AS J.P. OF KENT.

Three most important records illustrating Chaucer's connexion
with Kent have been recently brought to light. The first is a com
mission appointing him a Justice of the Peace for that county
on 12th October, 1385. It "associates" him with Simon Burley,
"Warden of the Cinque Ports, John de Cobham, and other Kentish
magnates, and with some Justices of the King's Courts, in
succession to Thomas de Shardelowe, deceased. The second is a full
commission of the peace to him and other Justices for Kent, on 28th
June, 1386, setting out their duties at great length, in the form
usual at that period. They were to cause the Statutes of Winchester,
Northampton, and Westminster to be observed ; to take sureties
from any persons using threats of bodily injury against others, or of
burning their houses ; and to inquire and adjudge in respect of
felonies, trespasses, forestallers, regraters, extortions, unlawful
meetings, persons going or riding about armed, or lying in wait to
maim or kill, the giving of liveries, innkeepers, victuallers, abuses
of weights and measures, and defaulting workmen, artificers, and
servants, who were to be fined or to be submitted to corporal
punishment. The third commission will be noticed further on.

PHILIPPA BECOMES A SISTER IN LINCOLN CATHEDRAL.

Another fresh discovery is a memorandum of the admission of
Philippa Chaucer, along with Henry, Earl of Derby, son of John of
Gaunt, and afterwards King Henry IV., Sir Thomas de Swynford,
and six others into the fraternity of Lincoln Cathedral, on 19th
February, 1386, Duke John of Gaunt being present on the occasion.
This is contained in the Chapter Act Book, and was discovered by
Mr. Leach. It is remarkable that Geoffrey was not included among
the beneficiaries. Here again it is to be inferred that Philippa was
in some way connected with the House of Lancaster, and with the
Swynford family.

On this interesting entry Canon Wordsworth remarks that "an
oath of fidelity and love to this Church and Chapter was administered
[to the brethren and sisters], sometimes in English ; and they
promised to assist and maintain the minster, and were accordingly
admitted ' in all prayers, fastings, pilgrimages, almsdeeds, and works
of mercy ' connected therewith." Edward III., the Black Prince,

LIFE-RECORDS, I. C

xxxiv 1380. Cliaucer M.P. for Kent, and Witness for the Scrapes.

the Duke of Clarence, John of Gaunt, and other illustrious personages
had been admitted in 1343, and Richard II. and his Queen Anne
were admitted in 1387. The Dukes of Lancaster no doubt took
a peculiar interest in Lincoln Cathedral, for the important Barony of
Spalding or Bolingbroke in Lincolnshire, to which belonged the
custody of Lincoln Castle, had descended to them through Henry de
Lacy, Earl of Lincoln, from the famous Countess Lucy,1 and John of
Gaunt himself had succeeded to the Earldom of Lincoln in 1362.2

CHAUCER M.P. FOR KENT.

It is to be presumed that while his wife was absent at Lincoln,
for she must have gone there to take the oath just alluded to,
Geoffrey was attending to his duties as Justice of the Peace in Kent,
since he was no longer bound to attend at the Custom-house. Thus
it came about that in August following he was elected one of the
two Knights of the Shire for Kent, for which election no sufficient
reason has hitherto been assignable. His colleague in Parliament
was William Betenham. They were subsequently allowed the sum
of 24Z. 9s. " for their expenses in going, staying, and returning," for
61 days. Prof. Skeat makes some interesting remarks on the
proceedings of this Parliament, and the manner in which Chaucer
himself was affected by them.

Another result of the cessation of Chaucer's attendance at the
Custom-house was his surrender of the lease of the Corporation's
house in Aldgate. The lease was made to him in 1374 for the term of
his life, and there is no actual record of the surrender, but on 5th
October, 1386, another lease of it was made to his friend Richard
Forster, or Forester, by his old colleague, Sir Nicholas Brembre,
as Mayor.3

On 15th October, 1386, Chaucer appeared in the Refectory
of Westminster Abbey as a witness in the well-known Scrope and
Grosvenor controversy, when he gave some particulars as to his
earlier life in 1359, and described the arms then borne by Sir Henry
and Sir Richard Scrope. He also related a subsequent conversation
between himself and a stranger in Friday Street, where, observ
ing a new sign, " made " of the Scrope arms, hanging from an

1 The Genealogist, edited by Selby, vol. v., and vol. viii. pp. 88, 89, 90.

2 Dictionary of National Biography.

3 Brembre was executed for treason in 1388.

1386-7. C. no longer Controller. Enquires into a ' Raptw.' xxxv

inn, he inquired who had " hung them out," and was told that they
were intended for the arms of Sir Robert Grosvenor, of Cheshire, of
whom he had never heard before.

CHAUCER LOSES THE CONTEOLLERSHIP.

In December, 1386, Chaucer was superseded in his offices of
Controller of the Customs and Controller of the Petty Customs by
Adam Yardley and Henry Gisors. Whether he resigned them, or
was dismissed, is not stated. It may be that the cost of providing
deputies had made it unprofitable to retain them, or that his
deputies were unsatisfactory ; but it must be borne in mind that his
great patron, John of Gaunt, was absent in Spain from 1386 to
1389, and that the King was a cipher during the same period, all
power being in the Regency, of which the Duke of Gloucester, the
King's uncle, was the head. Chaucer, as a follower of John of
Gaunt, would be obnoxious to this party, who, having succeeded in
obtaining a royal commission on the 1st October previous to inquire,
as to abuses in the Customs and Subsidies, as well as in other
revenues of the Crown, probably took this opportunity of procuring
his dismissal.1 There seems indeed to have been general dissatisfac
tion with Customers and Controllers at this time, for an Act was
passed in the very next year that no such officers should be appointed
for term of life, but only during good behaviour. Chaucer had, how
ever, held his office "during the King's pleasure," and so there
would have been no difficulty in getting rid of him.2

After Chaucer's experience in respect of Cecily Chaumpaigne it
is curious to find that on 16th May, 1387, lie was commissioned,
along with William Rickhill, the King's Serjeant-at-law, and others,
to inquire as to the abduction of Isabella atte Halle, an heiress, at
Chislehurst, in Kent. This was also a case of " raptus," but only
a civil offence, for here it is clear that several persons were
charged with taking her out of the custody of her guardian.

DEATH OF PHILIPPA CHAUCER.

For several years previous to this date Philippa's annuity had
been regularly paid on the same day as her husband's, and no doubt

1 Nicolas, p. 34 ; Parliament Rolls, Hi. 375.

2 Parliament Ptolls, iii. 250 ; Privy Council Proceedings, i. 9.

xxxvi 1387-9. C.'s Wife dies. He sells his Annuity ; is ladly off.

into his hands. The last payment to her was made on 18th June,
1387, and she seems to have died between then and Michaelmas day
in that year. On 7th November Geoffrey received his usual half-
yearly allowance, yet on 21st December he obtained a loan of
20s. from the Exchequer, which was never repaid apparently, and in
the following Easter term he was again paid in full. But his
pension soon after came to an end.

CHAUCER PARTS WITH HIS ANNUITY.

On 1st May, 1388, Chaucer surrendered to the King his pension
of forty marks, and at his petition the King granted it to one John
Scalby, apparently of Lincolnshire. It may be asserted, without
fear of contradiction, that it was a most unusual thing for any man
to surrender a pension, and for the King to grant it to some one else.
Lands and tenements, or offices, were frequently surrendered in this
way, but not pensions. It is hard to tell whether Chaucer sold his
interest to Scalby, or whether it was intended that Scalby should act
as a trustee. The former would be an almost unheard-of proceeding,
while the latter could hardly have been the case, as the new grant
was made to Scalby for the term of his own life, and he was to
receive payment at the Exchequer. A few years later Scalby
obtained a fresh patent, charging his annuity on " the issues of the
County of Lincoln."

At any rate, what with the loss of his Customs offices, the death
of his wife, and the termination of his annuity, Chaucer must have
been in very low circumstances at this period, which, however,
according to Prof. Skeat, ' ' was the most active time of his poetical
career." 1388 is supposed to be the year in which he made his
famous pilgrimage to Canterbury ; but he would have had many
earlier opportunities of observing the pilgrims in his journeys to
foreign parts, in going to Canterbury and other Kentish towns on
the business of his wards, and in attending to his duties as Justice of
the Peace.

CHAUCER AS CLERK OF THE WORKS.

Soon after Richard II. 's resumption of the royal power, he gave
proof of his favour to Chaucer by appointing him to be Clerk of the
King's Works on 12th July, 1389, in succession to Roger Elmhani.

1389. Chaucer as Clerk of the Works to Richard IL xxxvii

The royal residences under Chaucer's administration were the Palace
of Westminster, the Tower of London, the Castle of Berkhampstead,
and the Manors of Kennington, Eltham, Clarendon, Shene,
Byfieet, Chiltern Langley, and Feckenham, with the Lodge of
Hathebergh in the New Forest, the park-lodges in some of the
manors named, and the King's mews for falcons next Gharry ngcrouch
(Charing Cross). The gardens, mill-ponds, and fences of the parks
in all these places are particularly mentioned as being included in the
survey of the Clerk of the Works. Chaucer was invested with
ample powers to take workmen, and stone, timber, and other
materials, with carriage for the same, everywhere, except in Church
lands, and it was recognised that he would in many cases have to
employ deputies. He could pursue absconding workmen, and
imprison any persons obstructing him in the execution of his office.
His expenses were to be under the supervision of a Controller, and
his own wages were to be at the rate of two shillings a day, or over
thirty pounds a year.1 This was clearly a much more lucrative
appointment than his former Controllership of the Customs.

Shortly after, Chaucer issued his warrant to the Lord Chancellor,
with his name at the foot, for commissions to be made out to four
Purveyors, namely, Hugh Swayn, Walter Suthwerk, Thomas Segham,
and Peter Cook. Some have supposed the document to be in his
own hand, and the name to be his signature, but this is very
doubtful. The four commissions are on the Patent Rolls.

The Issue Rolls contain entries of many payments to Chaucer as
Clerk of the Works, or to persons deputed by him to receive them,
among whom we once more find John Hermesthorp, clerk. An
indenture between Koger Elmham, the preceding Clerk of the
Works, and Chaucer, minutely describes the " dead store " handed
over by the former to the latter in the several palaces and manors.
In Westminster Palace there were " one image of brass, two stone
images not painted, seven images made in the likeness of Kings " ;
'* certain parcels of one car made for King Edward, viz., two pairs of
wheels bound with iron" ; "one counter newly covered with green
cloth for the counting-house"; "twelve hurdles for scaffolds; one
pair of double lists containing in circuit 32 perches " ; and various
implements, tools, and materials. In the Tower of London were five

1 Prof. Skeat reckons thorn at 361. 10s. a year ; but Sundays were not
included ; see p. 303.

xxxviii 1390. C. to look after the Thames Banks $ Smitlifield Jousts.

"machines" and one " tribugettum," or "small machine," whereof
an axe, winch-pin, binding-cords, and three wheels were decayed ;
the last being an engine for throwing large stones ; also a ram,
engine-stones, and other articles. It does not appear that what we
should call the "furniture" of the royal palaces is described, but
only the plant and materials which actually belonged to the Office of
Works, though it is hard to see how it could be concerned with a
" fryingpanne," one of the items in the Tower.

CHAUCER AS COMMISSIONER OF SEWERS.

Although the business of this important office was mostly carried
on by subordinate officers, Chaucer's time would be greatly taken up
even by attending in a general way to such multifarious operations
carried on in so many different localities, which he would from time
to time be obliged to visit. But the King apparently considered
that Chaucer had some leisure to devote to other matters, for on 12th
March, 1390, he commissioned him, with Sir Richard Sturry and
others, some being Kentish men, to survey the walls, ditches,
gutters, sewers, bridges, causeways, wears, and trenches on the
" coast " of the Eiver Thames, between the towns of Greenwich and
Woolwich, and in those towns, much " inestimable " damage having
been caused by their having long been neglected ; and to compel
landowners and other persons liable to repair or to re-make them,
showing no favour to rich or poor ; with power to sit as Justices for
the purposes of inquiry, and for the amercement of defaulters,
according to "the Law of the Marsh." Apparently no assessment
was to be made, but every owner benefited by these works was
bound to provide a portion of the requisite labour. Thus Chaucer
was again brought into contact with Sir Richard Sturry, with whom
he had been associated in France in 1359 and 1377, and of whom
Froissart took notice, though he was not one of the official
Commissioners. It is said that Chaucer resided at Greenwich,1 and
this may have been the reason for his selection as one of the Justices.
In May, 1390, it was part of Chaucer's duty as Clerk of the
Works to cause scaffolds to be erected for the jousts which were then
held in Smithfield before the King and Queen, and he had a special
warrant to the Exchequer for the allowance of his costs on this

1 Prof. Skeat's Life, pp. xl, xlii.

1390-1. C. to repair St. George's Chapel, Windsor. Petherton. xxxix

occasion, to be paid him " on his oath." There were similar jousts
in October following, for which Chaucer also had to provide (pp.
305, 311).

On 4th June, 1390, we find him receiving 101. from the
Exchequer, by the hands of Eobert Gamelston, for stone bought of
him (Chaucer) for the repair of the King's Chapel within Windsor'
Castle, which was not included among the places mentioned in his
patent as Clerk of the Works.

CLERKSHIP OF THE WORKS AT WINDSOR.

This transaction probably led to his formal appointment or
commission, on 12th July, to repair "the Collegiate Chapel of St.
George^" which was then " threatened with ruin, and on the point of
falling to the ground " ; and he was authorised to take workmen and
materials for that purpose, in the same manner as before. In this
document he is once more addressed as the King's " beloved
Esquire," a description which had been dropped in several previous
patents. At the same time William Hannay, the Controller of the
Works at Westminster, was appointed to " counter-roll " Chaucer's
accounts in respect of the Chapel works.

About this period there are several writs for the allowance to
Chaucer of certain salaries paid by him to officers under him, which
need not be detailed here. Among the payments to him is the large
sum of 140/. for "the works of a certain wharf newly repaired next
the Tower of London, for weighing wools there." This was the
Wool-quay, with which he had been so familiar during his Controller-
ship of the Customs. He further received 60/. for " the repair of
houses newly built near the same [Tower] for the weighing of wools."

THE SUB-FORESTERSHIP OF NORTH PETHERTON.

In 14 Kichard IT., 1390 or 1391, according to Collinson's History
of Somerset, Chaucer was appointed as Sub-Forester of the Forest of
North Petherton by Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, Chief Forester
of the same.1 The Earl, as Prof. Skeat points out, was grandson of

1 There is very little about this Forest in the records. In some early
perambulations it is called in one place "the Forest of Pederton," and in
another the King's "Park" in the Hundred of North Peretun. — Chancery
Forest Proceedings (Ancient), Nos. 92, 93.

lhaucer Sub-Forester of N. Petlierton. He is robbed.

Lionel, Duke of Clarence, his "first patron," and Chaucer may
have applied to him for assistance after his losses in 1386-8. His
fellow Sub-Forester was one .Richard Brittle, who probably died
some time before Chaucer's reappointment as Sub-Forester by
Eleanor, Countess of March, in 1398, no doubt after the Earl's death.
Who was appointed to succeed Chaucer in 1400 is not stated by
Collinson, but he says that Thomas Chaucer was appointed to the
same office in 4 Henry V. by Edward [Edmund], Earl of March.
This is one of the few instances in which Thomas is known to have
succeeded Geoffrey ; but there is nothing here to show that he was
Geoffrey's son. Collinson derived these particulars from certain rolls
in private custody, which have unfortunately not been discovered.
Prof. Skeat shows that there was some connexion between the
Hey ron family and North Petherton, and hence Chaucer may have
had an interest in that distant locality through his grandmother. It
is not possible, however, that he could have performed the duties of
this new office in person, and it seems doubtful whether he ever
visited the Forest. We do not know what salary he received as Sub-
Forester, but, whatever it was, he doubtless enjoyed it till his death.

CHAUCER ROBBED BY HIGHWAYMEN.

In September, 1390, while travelling about on the business of
his Clerkship of the Works, he fell two or three times into the hands
of as many gangs of highway robbers. Whether this occurred twice
or thrice is uncertain. Taking the accounts literally as they stand,
we must conclude that there were three distinct robberies, but there
may be some confusion in the accounts ; in any view, he was robbed
twice at least. All the documents bearing on this subject,1 however
remotely, were edited by Mr. Selby, with an introduction, for this
Society, and the most important of them are reproduced in this
collection.

First of all, there is a royal commission, dated 15th October,
1390, to certain Justices, to inquire what felons and malefactors had
assaulted Geoffrey Chaucer at Hatcham, in Surrey, and robbed him
of a horse worth 10/., goods worth 100*\, and 201. Qs. Sd. in money,
and "at whose (quorum vel cujus) procurement," as if it was suspected
that the robbers had been instigated by some enemies of.his.

1 Except the earliest in date, quite recently discovered (Additions, No. 9).

1390. Chaucer robbed by Brerelay, Huntyngfeld, etc. xli

Secondly, there is a statement in the royal pardon to him for
the loss of 20Z. of the King's money, that he was robbed of this sum
by " some notable robbers," "near the Fowle Ok," i. e. the Foul Oak,
on 3rd September, when he also lost his horse and other goods
(moebles) ; and that the felony had been confessed by one of the
robbers in the gaol at Westminster, who had probably been arrested
for some other offence before 6th January, 1391, the date of the
King's writ to the Exchequer, according to which Chaucer was
allowed the 20Z. in his subsequent account (p. 305).

Thirdly, on what may be termed the Crown Roll of the King's
Bench, is the indictment of one Richard Brerelay, for having, " with
others unknown," robbed Chaucer of Wl. at Westminster, on
Tuesday after the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, that is, 6th September.
It is evident from the indictment in Hilary term (23rd Jan. — 12th
Feb.), subsequent to the date of the King's writ just mentioned, that
the Sheriff was then ordered to arrest Brerelay ; so he was not the
man who had confessed to the robbery of 3rd September. He was
at length captured by the bailiff of the liberty of the Abbot of
Westminster, who produced him in Court on 12th April, when he
pleaded " not guilty."

Fourthly, only a few days later, on 16th April, Brerelay confessed
that he had committed the robbery at Westminster, and became
approver, accusing three other persons of being concerned with him,
not in that robbery, but in robbing Chaucer at Hatcham, in Surrey,1
on the same Tuesday, 6th September, of 9Z. 3s. lOd. The persons
thus accused were " Thomas Talbot, of Ireland, otherwise called
Brode, Gilbert, clerk of the same Thomas, and William Huntyngfeld."
The first two, not being found by the Sheriff, were outlawed ; but
the third man appeared.

Huntyngfeld, like Brerelay, had been indicted for the robbery at
Westminster on 6th September, in Hilary term, when he had not
been captured, and he was not brought into Court by the Marshal till
17th June. He was convicted of that robbery, but claimed
benefit of clergy, though he may not really have been a " clerk."
He was accordingly committed to the King's Bench Prison,
escaped thence on 2nd August, and was again arrested. But

1 Prof. Skeat says "the Foul Oak was at Hatcham," which did not
appear in the records before him, but a comparison of the commission with the
pardon makes this probable.

xlii 1390-1. Chaucer's Rubbers. His Deputy. Works- ClerkshijJ lost.

for his " clergy " he would have been hanged. He was also charged
with the robbery at Hatcham, and pleaded not guilty; but the
prosecution in this case seems to have been dropped, probably
because he had already been convicted of the other robbery.

It appears that Brerelay at the time of his arrest had 4Z. 9s. 2d.
in money, two horses worth 3/., a sword, a dagger, and a surcoat
(armilamd). Having turned approver, he would have been pardoned
in respect of these robberies ; but being charged with another robbery
in Hertfordshire, he accused a certain Irishman, servant of Thomas
Talbot, of being his accomplice, who " offered the wager of battle,"
and in the "duel" which ensued Brerelay was vanquished, and
forthwith hanged.

These legal matters occupied Chaucer's attention now and again
from January to June, and he must have attended at Westminster
several times to give evidence against the robbers. Meanwhile, in
January, he issued a warrant for a commission to John Elmhurst to
be his deputy and purveyor for the Works at Westminster Palace
and the Tower ; and in the patent made out accordingly Chaucer is
termed the King's " beloved servant." This purveyor, like Chaucer,
had power to imprison any persons refusing to serve the King in his
Works. On 7th February a warrant was issued for the allowance to
Chaucer of the wages of Richard Swift, the master carpenter. On
•6th April certain moneys were assigned to Chaucer as Clerk of the
Works, and he lent 66Z. 13s, id. to the Exchequer.

CHAUCER LOSES THE CLERKSHIP OF THE WORKS.

On 17th June, 1391, a writ was directed to Chaucer, commanding
him to deliver up to John Geduey the office of Clerk of the Works,
with its rolls, writs, and memoranda. It is not stated that he had
resigned ; the King merely announces to him the appointment of
Gedney as his successor. He may have been in disgrace as a
consequence of the robberies ; but the King considerately ends
his writ with the words, "we will that you be discharged against
us." Thereupon he drew up a full account of his receipts and
expenses during the whole period of his Clerkship of the Works,
from 1389 to 1391, "by the view and testimony of William
Hannay, Controller of the said Works." It seems strange that lie
had not been called to account before.

1389-91. Chaucer' s Expenses and Wages as Clerk of the Works, xliii

-He had received altogether from the Exchequer 1209?. 9s. 9d.,
and his only other receipt was 17s. 4t?. for the "crops" of 104 oaks
thrown down by a storm in the King's park at Eltham. He had
expended 923?. 4s. 2^d. for stone, lime, tiles, timber, locks, hinges,
nails, glass, lead, and other materials, on the carriage of the same
from the places where they were bought, and in the wages of masons,
carpenters, plumbers, tilers, glasiers, sawyers, plasterers, ditchers, and
other workmen and labourers.

His own wages from 12th July, 1389, to 17th June, 1391, in all
706 days, were 70?. 12s., at the rate of 2s. a day. He paid 35?. 6s.
in wages to the Controller Hannay. Then come the wages of the
master carpenter at 12c?. a day, the chief mason at 12eZ. a day, several
purveyors at various rates, the gardener of Eltham, and the gardener
of Shene. Next is a payment of SI. 12s. Qd. for making two scaffolds
in Smithfield " for the King and the Queen and other Ladies, for the
jousts there," in May and October, 1390 (p. 305). The 20?. stolen
from Chaucer on 3rd September, 1390, are again mentioned, but he
had no allowance for the loss of his horse and goods. The
total of his expenses was 1130?. 8s. ll£t£., leaving a balance of
79?. 18s. 1 \d. against him ; but he further claimed allowance of
100?. 17s. 4t?. for the repair of St. George's Chapel, Windsor,
between 12th July. 1390, and 8th July, 1391, as in his separate
account. Thus there was a " surplusage " in his favour of
20?. 19s. IJd.

He then sets out the inventory of the " dead store " received by
him at his entering into office precisely as in the indenture before
referred to, after which he shows how much of it had been " ex
pended " on the Works during his time ; but the greater portion of
it was delivered up by him to John Gedney, his successor, with some
slight additions made in his own time.

On 8th July Chaucer received another writ commanding him to
resign to Gedney the repairs of St. George's Chapel ; and there is a
separate account of his receipts and expenses at Windsor, also made
"by the survey and testimony" of Hannay. He had bought 101
tons of Stapulton stone and 200 cartloads of Reigate stone " for the
making and amendment of the King's said Chapel of St. George,"
but they had "not yet been expended." The stone was brought
from " clivers places " and placed in "the great hall of the Castle."
The expenses of the stone, its loading and unloading, and the wages

xliv 1391-4. Chaucer's Advances repaid. His 201. Annuity.

of John Paule, the purveyor, amounted to 100Z. 17s. 4tJ., which sum
was allowed in his principal account, as before stated. An indenture
between Chaucer and Gedney testifies to the delivery of the stone to
the new Clerk.

The original file of Chaucer's vouchers, sixteen in number, is
preserved just as he gave them into the Exchequer. From these it
appears that he did riot finally pay the wages of the Controller
and the chief mason till October, which was excusable, considering
that he had already paid out more than he had received. On 12th
November a royal mandate was addressed to the Treasurer and
Barons of the Exchequer, commanding them to u account with "
Chaucer, and to pay him what was clue to him. Next day another
mandate required them, instead of paying, to certify to the King in
Chancery " what and how great a sum of money " was due to
Chaucer, as if the King was afraid of being called upon to pay a
larger sum than he expected. On the 17th they certified the amount
into Chancery as 20/. 19s. 2^d. (sic, for IJd.) ; but it was not till
16th December that he received a small portion of this balance,
3Z. 13s. 4df., on account. On 4th March, 1392, he was paid 31. 6s. Sd.
more, and 13th July, 1392, a final sum of 13/. 6s. Sd. Thus he
made a " bad debt " of 12s. fyd.

These few entries relating to the adjustment of his accounts are
the only records we have of him between July, 1391, and January,
1393, when the King ordered the Exchequer to pay him 10?. of
the King's gift as a reward for his good service rendered " in this year
now present," that is, in the 16th year of Richard II. He now seems
to have quite recovered the King's favour, for on 22nd May, 1393,
he was repaid the loan of 66/. 13s. 4td. which he had advanced to the
Exchequer on 6th April, 1391, although, with a poet's forgetful ness,
he had omitted to mention it in his accounts. But no further
appointment was offered to him. He was evidently looked upon as
being no longer capable of official duties.

CHAUCER OBTAINS A NEW ANNUITY.

Apparently recognising this state of things, the King on 28th
February, 1394, granted him an annuity of 20/., in consideration of
the good service which he had rendered to the King, and would
render in the future, as the patent expresses it, though this was far

1394-6. Chaucer's Wl. Annuity. With Henry of Lancaster. xlv

from being likely ; but he did not receive the first instalment of this
pension till 10th December. The subsequent payments of this
annuity, and of loans on account, are difficult to comprehend. The
Exchequer rolls seem to have been rather carelessly kept about this
time, and some of them have been lost,1 so that it is hard to decide
whether Chaucer was in distress, and forestalling his income, or the
Exchequer itself was in difficulties -, certainly it seems to have been
sometimes backward in paying up. Some attempt has been made in
the text to elucidate this matter, but a few more remarks may be added.
At any rate, Chaucer borrowed 10Z. on account on 1st April,
1395, some days before it was due to him at Easter, probably being
afraid that, if he did not apply early, he would not be able to get it
till late in the term, as in the preceding case. He repaid this sum on
28th May, and, according to a note on the Receipt Roll, it was
immediately " assigned " to him, presumably in payment of the
Easter instalment then over-due, but there is no note of any such
payment "by assignment " to him on the Issue Roll, as there ought
to be if he really received it. A few weeks later, on 25th June,
he had another "loan" of 10Z., professedly for the Michaelmas
following, but surely he had not been paid for the Easter term.
The Receipt Rolls have been searched from this 25th June to the end
of November following, and there is no entry of the repayment of
this sum ; consequently it could not have been a loan or advance,
but was really a payment of arrears due at the Easter previous.

CHAUCER WITH HENRY OF LANCASTER.

Some time between February, 1395, and February, 1396, Chaucer
received ten pounds on behalf of Henry, Earl of Derby, son of John
of Gaunt, from the Clerk of the Earl's Great Wardrobe.2 Evidently
this money was delivered to him for the purpose of his paying it
personally into the Earl's own hands. From this we may gather that
he was in attendance on the Earl, and possibly retained in his
service.

On 9th September, 1395, he had another so-called "loan" of
26s. Sd. ; but it is not likely that the Exchequer would have made him
this advance if he had really been fully paid up to Michaelmas on

1 There are, however, a number of undated rolls, which, if the dates could
be ascertained, might help to fill up the gaps.

2 Additions, No. 11.

xlvi 1396-7. Advances to Chaucer. He is one of Ballard's Attorneys.

25th June. However, the rolls are consistent in saying that on 27th
November he had a " loan " of 81. 6s. 8d. for Easter, 1396 ; but they
contradict themselves on 1st March, 1396, when they state that this
last sum was due at Michaelmas, 1395, which really seems to have
been the case ; and if so, Chaucer was not anticipating his pension,
but had some trouble in getting it.

On that day, 1st March, he repaid the 17. 6s. 8d. borrowed on
9th September,1 and on the same day he received 1Z. 13s. Id., the
balance due to him at Michaelmas. The former sum was a true loan,
and was refunded without being deducted from the pension account ;
but no doubt the Exchequer did not pay the full amount due on
27th November, because of this outstanding debt. The borrowing
of this small sum, Prof. Skeat considers, is "significant and
saddening " ; but Chaucer's chief difficulty seems to have been how
to get his dues from the Exchequer, and hence he may have preferred
to get a small sum on account, knowing that the full payment was
likely to be in arrear.

The Issue Rolls for Easter and Michaelmas terms, 1396, are
wanting, and all we can learn, from a later roll, is that he had an
"advance" of Wl. on 25th December in that year. Further
"advances" of 100s. each were made to him on 2nd July and 9th
August, 1397, the former " by the hands of Richard Odyham," who
was one of the Collectors of Subsidies in the Port of London; from
which it would seern that Chaucer still kept up his acquaintance
with the Custom-house. Here again these three sums do not appear
to have been loans, as the entry of 26th October, 1397, states,
precisely that the 10Z. was due at Michaelmas, 1396, and the two
sums of 100s. at Easter, 1397. Prof. Skeat remarks on the back
wardness of these payments, probably owing to " the lavish
extravagance of the King." On the day last mentioned, however,
Chaucer received the 101. due at Michaelmas, 1397, "by the hands
of John Walden," and it is rightly entered as a payment then due.

A POWER OF ATTORNEY TO CHAUCER.

We must now leave Chaucer's dealings with the Exchequer for a
while, and notice a deed by one Gregory Ballard, dated 6th April, 1396,
and appointing John Wilton, Geoffrey Chaucer, Hugh de Middelton,

1 The word " Sol." (No. 258) means that the money was actually paid into
the Exchequer, and was not "assigned" to any one.

1398. Chaucer sued for Debt. He gets Letters of Protection, xlvii

and John Fox as his attorneys. They were to take possession in his
name of the Manor of Spitelcombe, and two watermills, lands, rents,
fisheries, wardships, and other appurtenances in Combe, which was
also called Westcombe and Spitelcombe, and in the townships of
East Greenwich, Charlton, Whrytelmarsh, and Deptford, in the
county of Kent. Ballard had been enfeoffed of these lands by
Thomas de Arundel, Archbishop of York. It would not be necessary
for all the " attorneys " to act under this deed, and if Chaucer did
anything at all, it would not give him much trouble, especially if he
was residing almost on the spot, as is supposed.

In December, 1397, the King granted to Chaucer a butt or pipe
of wine yearly in the Port of London. This fact rests on Chaucer's
own statement (No. 269), but no patent of this date could be found
on the Patent Rolls. The patent was not in fact made out till late
in the following year.

AN ACTION FOR DEBT AGAINST CHAUCER.

Down to the beginning of 1398 there is no good reason for
supposing that Chaucer was in pecuniary difficulties, but in the
Easter term 1 of that year an action for debt was brought against him
and John Goodale, of Milleford, by Isabella, widow and administer
trix of Walter Buckholt, Esquire. The sum demanded from Chaucer
was 14Z. Is. lid., and from Goodale, 12/. 8s., but the nature of the
debt is not specified. The defendants did not enter an appearance,
and the Sheriff of Middlesex was commanded to summon them;
whereupon he " returned " that they had " nothing " in his bailiwick ;
then the usual order was given fur their arrest, and for the production
of "their bodies " in Trinity term.

HE HAS LETTERS OF PROTECTION.

It was this prosecution no doubt that led Chaucer to apply to the
King, by a petition which has not been found, for letters patent of
protection, which were granted to him on 4th May. In this patent

1 The legal Easter term consisted of less than four weeks, while the Exchequer
Easter term lasted about six months, from Lady Day to 28th September. In
like manner the legal Michaelmas term extended only from 9th October to 28th
November, while the Excheauer term of the same name reached from Michaelmas
to 24th March.

xlviii 1398. Chaucer's Letters of Protection. He is in Difficulties.

he is again termed the King's " beloved Esquire," and the King says
that, whereas he had " ordained Geoffrey Chaucer to do and despatch
very many arduous and urgent affairs, as well in our absence as in
our presence, in divers parts within our realm of England, the same
Geoffrey fears he may be disquieted, molested, or impleaded by certain
enemies (emulos) of his, by means of many plaints or suits, while he
shall be so attending to our affairs." The King therefore takes him,
" and his men, lands, goods, rents, and all his possessions," into his
(the King's) special protection and defence, and commands that for
two whole years he be not arrested or impleaded at the suit of any
person, pleas of land only excepted. Here again, as in the pardon
of 1390, it seems to be suggested that Chaucer had enemies.

On 4th June, 1398, he received his half-yearly pension of Wl.
due at Easter, " by the hands of William Waxcombe." In Trinity
term (12th June — 4th July) the proceedings against him in the
Common Pleas were continued in spite of the King's protection, but
as he was associated with John Goodale, who seems to have had no
similar patent, the plaintiff was justified in proceeding, and probably
the two names were associated for this very purpose. The Court
could not of course be expected to take cognisance of the King's
patent if Chaucer did not attend to produce it, as he did not,
according to the record ; nor did his fellow-defendant appear. The
Sheriff was once more ordered to arrest them, and returned " that
they have not been found " ; so a further order was made for them
to be " taken" against Michaelmas term.

At this time Chaucer certainly seems to have been in difficulties,
otherwise he would hardly have applied for such small advances as
Qs. Sd. on 24th July, a like sum on 31st July, and another like sum
on 23rd August ; but on this last day he also obtained a much larger
advance, 106s. Sd. He undertook to repay these sums, in all
6/. 6.?. Sd., but we have no evidence that he did so.

The Buckholt action was still pending, and the same formal
pleadings are recorded in Michaelmas term (9th October — 28th
November) as in Trinity term, as far as the return that Chaucer and
Goodale had not been found. Then a stringent command was given
to the Sheriff to cause them " to be exacted," or, as the legal
phraseology has it, "to be put in exigent," from county-court to
county-court, that is, in the successive courts supposed to be holden
by the Sheriff, until they should be found ; if not, they were to be

1398. Grant to Chaucer of a Butt of Wine yearly. xlix

outlawed. If he found them, he was to " have their bodies " before
the Court in Trinity term following. The Sheriff was thus allowed
plenty of time to look for them, but nothing further has been found
upon the rolls.

GRANT TO HIM OF A BUTT OF WINE YEARLY.

At the very time when the Sheriff's officer was supposed to be in
search of him, Chaucer was petitioning the King for the issue of
letters patent carrying into effect the grant made to him, apparently
by word of mouth only, in December, 1397. Having been Esquire
of the King's Chamber, and subsequently Clerk of the Works, he
would be well known at the White Hall 1 of the Palace of
Westminster, and would have no difficulty in obtaining access to the
King's presence. His petition was granted by the King on 13th
October, 1398. Thus Chaucer must have been staying in tho
immediate neighbourhood of the Court of Common Pleas, which
officially appeared to be so anxious for his capture.

The patent bears date on the day when the King assented to the
petition, and grants to Chaucer " one butt of wine to be received
every year during his life in the Port of our city of London, by the
hands of our Chief Butler for the time being." Two days later, on
15th October, the King granted the same thing in more ample
words; the grant was to take effect from 1st December last, 1397,
when no doubt it was first promised, and the wine was to be
received from the Chief Butler, "or his deputy" in the Port of
London.

On 28th October, 1398, Chaucer received his usual half-yearly
payment of 10Z., and as nothing is said about the loans to him in
July and August, this sum ought to have been entered as being due at
Michaelmas, but once more the Exchequer official chooses to call this
an "advance" for the Easter term following. The 10Z. due at that
term were, however, received by Chaucer in two sums of 71. 16s. 8d.
and 21. 13s. 4ci on 26th April and 9th July, 1399. On the latter
day he also had an advance of 13s. 4d. These were the last moneys
he received from Richard II., who was deposed on Michaelmas day
following.

1 See p. 266, note.
LIFE- RECORDS, I. d

1 1399. Chaucer's Lifr-Lease of a Westminster- Alley Tenement.

LARGE PROMISES FROM HENRY IV.

According to Prof. Skeat, Chaucer at once indited a poem
to Henry IV. As early as 13th October1 the new King granted him
an annuity of forty marks, " over and above those twenty pounds "
given him by the late King, and which Henry says he had already
confirmed. Henry's confirmation to Chaucer of Richard's two grants
of twenty marks and a butt of wine yearly was not, however, passed
under the Great Seal till 18th October. This patent states that
Chaucer had " casually, lost " both the patents of King Richard.
The loss proved fortunate, as the confirmation gave him a surer title
to the continuation of the annuity and the wine-grant than he could
have had under the patents of the deposed monarch. Three days
later, on 21st October, another confirmation was made to him not
only of Richard II. 's patents, but of Henry IV.'s patent of 18th
October.

CHAUCER'S TENEMENT AT WESTMINSTER.

From these three concessions it has been inferred that Chaucer
" ended his days in comparative ease " ; but the fact is, only the last
of them was taken cognisance of by the Exchequer. According to
the Issue Rolls he did not receive anything whatever under Henry's
grant of forty marks, and nothing was paid him on account of
Richard's annuity for the days between 29th September and 21st
October. However, on 24th December, 1 399, when Chaucer clearly had
great expectations, he felt himself sufficiently prosperous to take a
lease of a tenement in the garden of St. Mary's Chapel, Westminster
Abbey, from Brother Robert Hermodes worth, Monk of the Abbey
and Warden of the Chapel. He covenanted to pay a yearly rent
of 53s. 4:d.} and to repair the tenement at his own expense. The
term of the lease, fifty-three years, was a long one for a man at his
time of life to take, but it was to expire immediately on his death,
" if he should die within the time aforesaid."

The payment of the 10/. due to Chaucer at Michaelmas, 1399,
under Richard II.'s grant, was not made to him till 21st February,
1400, when Henry IV. specially " commanded it to be given to him,"
as "of his (the King's) gift." The patents of 18th and 21st

1 Not 3rd October, as has been sometimes alleged, but there may have been
an earlier grant.

1400. Last payment of Chaucer's Annuity. His Death. li

October, one would have imagined, ought to have been a sufficient
warrant to the Exchequer for this payment, without such a command,
unless it was supposed that the late King ought to have paid all his
pensions punctually on the very day of his deposition. But Henry's
finances seem to have been at a low ebb. His second and last
payment to Chaucer of Richard's annuity is dated 5th June, 1400,
when it was calculated that there was due to him 87. 13s. 5d. from
21st October to 31st March only. He received no payment for the
first twenty-three days of the preceding Michaelmas term, as before
stated, and nothing was allowed him for the days between
31st March and Easter (18th April) ; and even of the sum
thus acknowledged, the Exchequer could afford to pay him but 51.
on account. The difficulty of obtaining what had been promised
to him must have been a great disappointment in his closing
days.

According to the inscription formerly legible on his tomb in
Westminster Abbey, but now obliterated, he died on 25th October,
1400, no doubt in the house adjoining the Abbey of which he was
lessee. This house appears to have been subsequently in the
occupation of Thomas Chaucer, according to entries in the Sacrist's
Rolls of Westminster Abbey, discovered by Dr. Edward Scott. The
dates given are 1413 — 1434, there being apparently a gap between
the tenancies of Geoffrey and Thomas, as in the case of the Sub-
Forestership of North-Petherton. In any case we cannot conclude
from the succession, even if immediate, that Thomas was heir to
Geoffrey, still less that he was Geoffrey's son, since he could not
have inherited under the lease ; but it helps to strengthen the
presumption of their relationship in some way.

CHAUCER DIES WITHOUT RECEIVING HIS DUES.

Although Chaucer survived Michaelmas term, 1400, there is no
entry on the Issue Rolls of any payment to him of the arrears of his
annuities, nor were they paid to Thomas Chaucer after his death.
From this fact Dr. Furnivall concludes that Thomas had no right to
claim them as next-of-kin, and so could not have been Geoffrey's son.

THOMAS CHAUCER.

This relationship has however been frequently assumed, although

lii Thomas Chaucer not proved to le the Poet's Son.

it is not proved by a single official or legal document.1 As the poet
left no real estate, we do not find any inquisition after his death,
nor is there any will. The only authoritative statement that he was
the father of Thomas occurs in Gascoigne's theological treatise,
written some years after his death; but the reference by Bishop
Beaufort, son of John of Gaunt, to Thomas Chaucer as his cousin
may be taken to support that statement, if we suppose Philippa to
have been sister of Katherine Swynford and mother of Thomas.
But the statement is not utterably irreconcilable with the tradition
recorded by Speght, who says : " Some hold opinion (but I know
not upon what grounds) that Thomas Chaucer was not the sonne of
Geoffrey Chaucer, but rather some kinsman of his, whom he brought
up." Thomas may well have been the adopted son of Geoffrey, and
the adoption may have been unknown to Gascoigne.

It has been remarked that Thomas does not appear to have
immediately succeeded Geoffrey in the Sub-Forestership of North
Petherton, or in his Westminster leasehold. Can it be that Geoffrey's
"little son Lowis" survived him for a few years, and was his
next-of-kin 1 However, we find Thomas using Geoffrey's seal in 1409,
and this points to his having taken over Geoffrey's personal estate.2
On the other hand again, only the Root arms are represented on
Thomas's tomb, and from this it has been inferred that he had no
right to the Chaucer arms.

Speght asserts that "Thomas Chaucer was borne about the 38.
or 39. yeare of Edward 3.," that is, in 1364 or 1365. If this date
be correct, we know nothing about him during the first thirty years
of his life. The two earliest notices of him have been discovered
quite recently. When he is first met with, he was in France, jn the
service of John of Gaunt, who had been created Duke of Aquitaine
by Richard II. in 1390. After the death of his second Duchess, the
Duke "left England in the autumn of 1394, for the purpose of

1 See, for instance, the 8th and 9th Reports of the Historical MSS.
Commission. Mr. J. A. Manning, in his Lives of tlic Speakers of the House of
Commons, pretends to give chapter and verse for it, and asserts that Geoffrey
was Chief Butler before Thomas, but the records referred to by him do not
mention Geoffrey in any way.

2 No. 286. It is a pity that the suggestion has been made in print that the
name on the seal may not be "Ghofrai" but "Thomai," for, if the seal should
perish, it might hereafter be suspected that it was not Geoffrey's at all. It
must be fully understood that there is no ground whatever for that suggestion.
The letters fr especially are clearly cut and unmistakable.

Was T/tomas Chaucer's first name Reginald Curteys? liii

formally assuming his dukedom of that province ;" 1 and it was
apparently during his stay there that he retained Thomas Chaucer, at
Bayonne, to remain with him for the term of his (the Duke's) 2 life.
He thereupon granted to Thomas an annuity of ten pounds, by
letters patent, which do not now exist, but they were confirmed by
Henry IV. in 1403 (lSTo.;285). Their date is not quoted, and the
Duke had been at Bayonne In 1387; but 1394 is the more likely date,
for Thomas is mentioned in an account of the Receiver General of
the Duchy, in 1394 or 1395, in which an alias seems to be given
him. It states that the sum of 13Z. Qs. Sd. was paid to "Thomas
Chaucer, de noun Reynald Curteys," being due to him on account of
certain affairs of " Monsieur," that is, the Duke of Lancaster. At first
sight this seems to imply that Reynald Curteys was his proper name,
though in itself it looks more like a nickname ; but many will no
doubt incline to the opinion that this expression merely means " in
the name of Reynald Curteys," or as we should say " on account."

This is however a very unusual term in accounts of this period, and
no one can actually deny the possibility of an alias being intended.
Moreover the money seems to have been due to Thomas, who we
know was actually with the Duke, and attending to his personal
affairs, for which the payment was made ; and hence the words
"due to him" can hardly apply to anyone else, as they would do if
Reynald Curteys was a different person. Some will no doubt be
disposed to inquire whether we have not here a clue to " the profound
mystery " which enshrouds not only the marriage of Geoffrey and
Philippa, but also the parentage and early years of Thomas. I will
therefore state the results of a thorough investigation of the matter,
and the arguments that may be based on the former view. In the
first place, it is not a little strange that there actually was at this time
living a Reginald Curteys, "senior," of Wragby, in Lincolnshire,3

1 Dictionary of National Biography.

2 The record is not clear on this point, but "his" must refer to the Duke, as
the older man.

3 All the under-mentioned records relate to Reginald Curteys, Courteys,
Curtays, or Curtoys, and some of them to Thomas Chaucer also.

1377. Protection for Reginald Curteys, Esquire, going with others in
the retinue of Michael de la Pole, who had been appointed Admiral of a
fleet of ships "towards the North parts."— French Rolls, 1 Ric. II., p. 1,
m. 24.

1383. Appointment of Reginald Curtays, senior, of Wragby, in co. Lincoln,
as Collector of the Customs in tha port of Boston, for life, with the custody of
the coket seal, ' ' on condition that he write the rolls with his own hand, or

liv

Entries relating to Reginald Curteys, Senior.

and that no Reginald Curteys, junior, has been discovered, except one
who was only twelve years old in 1419, and who died before 1422.
There are numerous references to Reginald Curteys in the records, all

cause them to be written in his presence, and execute the office in person." —
Patent Roll, 7 Ric. II., p. 1, in. 35. Ancient Petitions, No. 11054.

1383. Grant by John, Duke of Lancaster, to Reginald Curtoys, for life, of
an annuity of 100s., for his good service. (See next.)

1384. Grant by the same to the same of another annuity of 100-9. (These
two grants are not extant, but they are recited in Henry IV.'s confirmation of
them in 1399.— Duchy Registers, No. 15, f. 42 ; and see warrant, f. 67.)

1385. Reginald Curtays and Cecily his wife, parties to a Fine touching the
manor and church of Askeby, co. Lincoln. — Fines, Lincoln, 8 Ric. II.

1388. Reginald Curteys was one of the gentlemen of Lincolnshire who were
compelled to take an oath to support the five Lords Appellants, including
Thomas, Duke of Gloucester, and Henry, Earl of Derby, son of John of Gaunt.
—Parliament Rolls, III. 401 b.

1399. Confirmation to him of John of Gaunt's annuities, as above.

1399. Appointment of Reginald Curteys, Esquire, as purveyor of all victuals
for the defence of Calais. —French Roll, 1 Hen. IV., in. 22,

1400. A similar appointment. — Ibid., m. 2. (There are various payments to
him in respect of these offices in the Issue Rolls, 1 Hen. IV., seq.)

1400. Mandate by the King to his beloved Esquire, Reynald Curteys, to
deliver up to the Receiver in co. Lincoln all the charters, muniments, &c.,
which he has in his custody, and which he had out of the Castle of Bolyngbrok.
— Duchy Registers, vol. 15, f. 75.

1405. Appointment of Reginald Curteys, Esquire, as victualler of Calais. —
French Roll, 6 Hen. IV., m. 8.

1406. Appointments of the King's very dear Esquire, Reynald Curteys,
(1) as Master Forester of the King's Chase of Asshedoune, [Sussex,] for life ;
and (2) as Rider and Ranger of the said Chase. — Duchy Registers, vol. 16, pt. 2,
f. 100.

1407. The King's father [John of Gaunt], by letters patent, confirmed 5 Dec.
1399, granted to the King's loved Esquire, Reynalt Curteys, his " hostelL" in
the town of Calais, now called Dukesynne, with all rents, meadows, marshes,
&c. appertaining, for life, without paying any rent. The premises are now
"ruinous," and divers- " hostelx " of " the Lords " in the same town are in like
case. The King therefore grants the premises to Curteys for life, and for thirty
years after, on condition that he repair them at his own cost, at the yearly rent
of five marks ; saving to the King " herbergage " for himself and his household,
&c.—Ibid., f. 76. See also Ancient Petitions, No. 11017.

1407. Appointment of Reginald Courteis as Parker of the King's Park of
Marsfeld within the Chase of Asshedoun. — Ibid., f. 77 b.

1408-9. Three Warrants for payment of arrears of the annuity of 10Z.
granted by John of Gaunt to Reginald Curteys. — Ibid., ff. 113, 150 b.

1413. Appointment by Henry V. of his dear and well-beloved Esquire
Reignalt Conrteys as Rider and Ranger of the Chase of Asshedoune.

1415. Commission to Richard Cliderowe and Reginald Curteys, "Pomicelli
Regis," to treat with masters of ships of Holland and Zealand to serve the King
on the sea with their ships. — French Roll, 3 Hen. V., in. 23. (Thomas Chaucer
is also called a " Domicelhis " in the French Roll, 2 Hen. V.)

1415. Letters of general attorney for Reginald Curteys.— Ibid., m. 23.

1415. Protection for the same. — Ibid., m. 6.

1416. Appointment of Reginald Courteys, Esquire, as receiver of the town
of Harfleur.— Ibid., m. 4.

Nothing found as to Reginald Curteys, Junior. Iv

apparently relating to the " senior," though this designation does not
occur after 1383, as may be seen in the notes, some showing his
connexion with Lincolnshire, others with Calais and certain places
in France, others with the county of Kent. Like Geoffrey Chaucer,
he was appointed as a Controller of Customs by the King, he
received annuities from John of Gaunt, and was connected with
the same two counties. It is possible that all those records do not
relate to one and the same person, but it is difficult to apportion
them between two persons. It may be that the term "senior " was
dropped after Thomas Chaucer had definitely adopted this name,
which he may have done some time before 1394-5.1 Reginald

1416. Licence to the same to transport 600 qrs. of wheat to Harfleur, for its
victualling — French Roll, 4 Hon. V. , m. 16.

1417. Deeds of feoffment and release by Roger Forde to Sir Thomas de
Camoys, Thomas Chaucer, Esquire, four clerks, named Reginald Courteys,
Esquire, Henry Kesewyke, Esquire, and Robert Barbot, of several manors in
Hampshire.— Close Roll, 5 Hen. V., m. 13 d.

1418. Protection for Reginald Curteys, Esquire. — French Roll, 6 Hen. V.,
m. 5.

1419. An Inquisition, taken at Dover, after the death of Reginald Curteys,
Esquire, who with Margaret his wife, then surviving, had held the Manor of
Westclyve, in Kent ; his son and heir being Reginald Curteys, aged twelve
years. — Inquisitions p. m., 7 Hen. V., No. 10.

1422. An Inquisition, taken at Calais, finding that the same Reginald had
held for life a hospice called Dukesynne, in Calais, of the King, as of the
Duchy of Lancaster, under a lease from Henry IV., confirmed by Henry V. ;
Durand Curteys being his son and heir, aged thirteen years. — Inquisitions
p. m., 9 Hen. V., No. 74. (This inn had been granted by Edward III. to John of
Gaunt about 1369 ; see Duchy Registers, vol. 14, p. 146. Durand died s. p. ;
see below, 1447.)

1446. Four deeds of release by "Margaret, formerly wife of Reginald
Curteys, daughter of Sir Reginald Cobham, Knight, and sister of Sir Reginald
Cobhain, Knight, lords of Sterburgh," to various persons, of manors in Kent,
Surrey, and Sussex.— Close Roll, 24 Hen VI., in. 20 d.

1447. Demise by Nicholas "Wymbussh, clerk, to " Matilda, wife of Thomas
Ratford, Esquire, kinswoman and heir of Reginald Curteys, "of certain manors
in Hants, which he (Nicholas) had jointly with Sir Thomas Camoys, Thomas
Chaucer, Esquire, four clerks, Reginald Curteys, Esquire, and others deceased,
by Fine, by grant of John Kyngesmyll and Cecily his wife to them and the
heirs of the said Reginald : to hold to Matilda for the term of Nicholas's life.
Dated 20 Nov. 26 Hen. VI., but not enrolled on the Close Rolls till 32 Hen.
VI., m. 23d.

(Undated.) Petitions of Reginald Curteys and Margaret his wife to the King.
— Ancient Petitions, Nos. 9323, 9416.

1 In the Receiver's Accounts of Henry, Earl of Derby, 15-18 Ric. II., there
are entries of payments of an annuity to Thomas Courtoys, of Cornwall, and
Matilda his wife. The last Receiver's Account of John of Gaunt is dated 15-16
Ric. II. It records payments of annuities of 10Z. to Sir Thomas Swynford and
100£. to Sir John Beaufort ; a large payment to Richard Whittyngtori, mercer,
of London ; and a payment to John Curteys, Butler to the Duke.

Ivi Was Thomas Chaucer Reyinuld Curteys, Junior?

Courteys, Esquire, is mentioned along with Thomas Chaucer, Esquire,
in deeds of 1417.

If Thomas Chaucer was the missing Reginald Curteys, Junior,
it would follow that he adopted or was brought up in the name of
Chaucer. This would account for the omission of the Chaucer arms
on his tomb ; and as the Roet arms are found thereon, it is probable
they were those of his mother. Now, assuming that his mother was
Philippa Chaucer, it would further follow either that she was married
to some one named Curteys before she" was married to Geoffrey
Chaucer, or that Thomas was illegitimate. It is not, however,
necessary to suppose that he was the son of Reginald Curteys,
"senior," for this definition merely denotes the existence of a younger
person of the same name, who may have been Reginald's nephew, or
some other relative.

Here we may recall the tradition that Thomas was not the son of
Geoffrey. He may, however, have been Geoffrey's stepson. If he
were illegitimate, the absence of any claim on his part to the De Roet
inheritance, on which Nicolas insists, is accounted for. But is it
necessary to make such an assumption ? On Sir Payne Roet's death
his lands in Hainault would be divided between Katherine and
Philippa, if they were his coheirs, and this may have taken place
before the latter's marriage to Geoffrey. It is curious that a charge of
illegitimacy was brought against Sir Thomas Swynford, Katherine's
son, which was denied by the patent of his half-brother, Henry IV.,
who therein speaks of Katherine as "beloved mother."1 When,
therefore, Sir Thomas Swynford claimed an inheritance in Hainault,
we must not assume, as Nicolas does, that it would have been open to
Thomas Chaucer to claim a share in it, since his mother's portion may
have been severed and disposed of many years before, unless it can
be shown that Sir Payne Roet was then quite recently deceased.

No more apparently can be said in favour of the possible
alias, and without some confirmation it will hardly find general
acceptance. It may be urged against it that though a change of
surname is intelligible, a change of the Christian name is extremely
unlikely. As however there still seems to be a belief that Thomas
was not the son of Geoffrey, some portion of the argument may be
serviceable to those who hold that opinion.

1 The children of Katherine Swynford by John of Gaunt were legitimated by
Act of Parliament,

John of Gaunt. Thomas 01 tamer's Appointments. Ivii

As Thomas no doubt remained in the Duke's service till the
latter's death, it will be useful to note that the Duke remained in
Aquitaine till Christmas, 1395, when he was recalled, and visited
the King at Langley. He then retired to Lincoln, and in January,
1396, married Katherine Swynford, Thomas Chaucer probably being
present at the marriage. Towards the end of that year the Duke
accompanied King Richard to Calais. In March, 1398, he was
appointed Lieutenant of the Marches towards Scotland, and, in
August, Constable of Wales. He died at Ely House, Holborn, in
February, 1399.

That Thomas held several important offices under John of Gaunt
is apparent from King Richard's grant to him on 20th March, 1399,
when, on the death of his master, they were taken from him by the
King, and given to William le Scrope, Earl of Wiltshire, who in the
same year was beheaded by order of Duke Henry, son of John
of Gaunt. An annuity of 20Z. was granted by Richard II. to Thomas
Chaucer in recompense for the loss of these offices, and it was to be
received out of the farm of the town of Wallingford. Soon after
Henry became King, he gave Thomas the office of Constable of
Wallingford for the term of his life. There are two patents of this
and other offices, which were probably those of which Thomas had
been deprived by the late King. Notwithstanding this restitution,
Henry confirmed to him Richard's annuity of 207. , and in the
Duchy Registers there is a warrant for the payment of one instalment
of it, due at Easter, 1400.1

This brings our knowledge of Thomas Chaucer down to the date
of Geoffrey's death. How he afterwards became Chief Butler of
England, a Member of Parliament, and Speaker of the House of
Commons, and what extensive properties he possessed, need not bo
here detailed, seeing that it is proposed to collect all the documents
relating to him in another volume.

Thus I have endeavoured to explain the various records comprised
in this volume, and which, as they stand, would naturally be
unintelligible to most people. So far as I know,

This is all and som ; there n'is no more to sain ;
but, like Nicolas, we may still look forward to further discoveries nt

1 Some later grants to Thomas Chaucer are noted by Nicolas (pp. 87-89)
and by Prof. Skeat (p. xlviii).

Iviii

Tl tanks to Helpers.

the Public Record Office, and perhaps in other quarters. Some
attempt has been made to show the connexion of these records with
other sources of information, and I trust the general result will
prove useful to all Chaucerian students.

I cannot conclude without expressing my obligations to Dr.
Furnivall for constant advice, for instituting various inquiries, and
for the clear descriptions which he has placed at the heads of all the
pages. For sundry references I am indebted to Mr. G. H. Overend,
F.S.A., and Dr. R. R. Sharpe. Most of the Issue Rolls and Receipt
Rolls, not to mention other unindexed rolls and records, were
searched by my son, Mr. Ernest F. Kirk, who has also extracted
many of the documents.

R. E. G. KIRK.

27, Chancery Lane,
London, June 1901.

LIFE-EECOKDS OF CHAUCER.

IV.

and

FROM THE

PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE,

THE

TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE, GUILDHALL, LONDON,

AND OTHER SOURCES;

COMPRISING ALL KNOWN RECORDS RELATING TO

GEOFFREY CHAUCER.

BY K. E. G. KIRK, ESQ.

LONDON :
PUBLISHED FOR THE CHAUCER SOCIETY

BY KEGAN PAUL, TRENCH, TRUBNER & CO.,

PATERNOSTER HOUSE, CHARING-CROSS ROAD.
1900.

No. 32.

RICHARD CLAY & SONS, LIMITED, LONDON & SUNDAY

137

m\&

Jfr0m % Dttfrlir Sworb tfffia, % CHjj 0f

®ffire, (Smfirfrall, tie,

EDITED BY

R. E. G. KIRK, ESQ.

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 10

139

LIFE-RECORDS OF GEOFFREY CHAUCER,

IV. THE DOCUMENTS.

1.

1307, July 8-14. — Robert le Chaucer (Geoffrey's grandfather) and
Mary his wife^ parties to a Fine relating to land in Edmonton.

[Feet of Fines, London and Middlesex, Edw. I., file 38, no. 364.] 1

Final Concord, made at "Westminster, in the Quinzaine 2 of St.
John Baptist, 35 Edw. I., between Robert le Chaucer and Mary his
wife, demandants, and Ralph le Clerk of Edelmeton, tenant, con
cerning ten acres of land with the appurtenances in Edelmeton. The
former, for themselves and the heirs of Mary, remise and quitclaim to
the latter and his heirs, for 100s. of silver. — Middlesex.

2.

1308, Nov. 15. — Robert le CJiaucer, attorney to the King's Sutler.

[Patent Roll, 2 Edw. II., p. 2, m. 20.]

Royal mandate to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London, and all
other bailiffs, etc., to attend, counsel, and aid Robert le Chaucer,
citizen of London, as attorney of Henry de Say, the King's Butler, in
performing those things which appertain to the office of the King's
Butlery in the City of London and in the Port of the same City,
whenever the said Henry cannot personally attend to them. Dated
15 November.

3.

1310, June 24-July 6. — The King interferes to protect Gascon
merchants against outrages in the City ; Robert Chaucer and
other offenders being attached to appear before the Council.
[City of London Records, Letter Book D, f . 105.]

Entry of a Writ of King Edward addressed to Sir John de
Crombewelle, Constable of the Tower, and to the Mayor, Sheriffs,
and Aldermen of London, stating that he had been informed that
"aukuns utrages et despitz" had been done in the City to his good

1 References to this and other Chaucer Fines occur in Messrs. Hardy and
Page's Calendar, and were noticed by Mr. Walter Rye in the Athenceum, Nov.
19, 1892, p. 704.

2 The Quinzaine was one of the " return-days " in the Court of Common
Pleas, and the Fine took place in the week following.

140 A.D. 1310. ROBERT LE CHAUCER, Geoffrey's Grandfather.

people of Gascony repairing thither ; and commanding them to give
credit to his dear clerk, Ingelard de Warle, keeper of his Wardrobe,
and to do what he should tell them as from the King. Dated at
Cantorbery, 24 June, 3 Edward [II.] l

On Saturday after the Nativity of St. John [27 June], Sir
Ingelard brought this Writ, and said the King had understood
that certain people of the City had trespassed against his people of
Gascony, both merchants and others, dwelling in the City, and the
King willed that the said trespass should be redressed (adresce) before
him and his Council, and commanded that no one should mis-do or
mis-say to them, under pain of imprisonment and forfeiture. There
upon he (Sir Ingelard) delivered to us the names of some of the tres
passers, and commanded that they should be attached by their bodies,
so that they could be produced immediately on the King's coming, to
do and receive what should therein be ordained ; to wit, Thomas de
Brackele, Roger de Shireburne, skyrinisour, John de Clynton, John
Fayti, Nicholas the valet (vallettus) [of?] John de Suffolk, Thomas
de Beauflour, "James le vadlet [de] le dist Thomas," Pounz le
Caretter, Pieres Drinkwatre, Walter le Bevere, Robert le Chaucer,
Beneit de Suffolk, Thomas de Suffolk, Simon Beauflour, Henry le
Gaugeour, and Higecok Trente.2

And thereupon it is ordered that a common cry 3 be made in the
City, that as the good people of Gascony, both merchants and others,
are of our King's allegiance, the King wills that they be " maintained
in his land in all goods," etc.

[Ibid., f. 107.]

Entry of a Writ to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London, informing
them that the King had taken into his protection the vintners and
other merchants of " the Duchy aforesaid " [Gascony in the margin].
Dated at Westminster, 6 July, 3 Edward II.4

4.

1310, Aug. 2. — Robert le Chaucer, collector of a new custom from
French vintners.

[Fine Roll, 4 Edw. II., m. 20. 5]

Appointment of Elias Perr' 6 and Robert le Chaucer, jointly or
severally, to collect in the port of London the custom of 2s. payable

1 The marginal note states that the writ remained with the Constable.

2 John de Suffolk is mentioned with a John le Chaucer in 1278 in
Letter Book B, f. 115 ; and Thomas de Brackele occurs on the next leaf. See
Dr. Sharpe's Calendar, p. 279. 3 " Proclamacio " in the margin.

4 This is followed by the entry of another writ, stating that the King had
confirmed the liberties and immunities which Edward I. had granted to the
merchants and vintners of "the Duchy aforesaid " [Gascony in the margin];
dated at Northampton, 2 August, 4 Edward IL [1310.]

6 "17" struck out. 6 Or Ferrer?

A.D. 1315-25. MARY, Geoffrey's Grandmother. 141

over and above the ancient customs by the merchants vintners of
the Duchy [of Aquitaine] in consideration of certain liberties granted
to them by King Edward I. by charter, for every tun of wine brought
into the realm, within forty days after landing ; and to account in
the Exchequer by the hands of Walter de Waldeshef, the King's
Butler, till the King command otherwise. Dated at Northampton,
2 August.

In the margin this is called "a new custom."

A "schedule," annexed, contains a commission to the Butler
relating to the same and other matters.

5.
1315, Oct. 29. — Mary, widow of. Robert le CJiaucer, in debt.

[Close Roll, 9 Edw. II., m. 21 d.j

Mary, who was the wife of Robert le Chaucer, acknowledges that
she owes 70/. to Nicholas de Halweford, and promises to pay that
sum in moieties at Candlemas and Easter ; otherwise it shall be levied
on her lands and chattels in the City of London and elsewhere.
Dated at Clypston, 29 October.

6.

1319, Oct. 31. — Richard Chaucer chosen to be one of the searchers
of wines in the City.

[City of London Records, Letter Book E, f. 94.]

Names of the Vintners sworn before Hamo de Chiggewelf, Mayor,
and the Sheriffs, at St. Martin's in the Vintry, London, on Wednes
day, the Eve of All Saints, 13 Edward [II.], for making the scrutiny
of wines well and faithfully, according to the custom of the City ;
viz., 13 names, including —

Richard le Chaucer.

7.

1325, June 7. — Richard le Chaucer , witness to a deed.

[Close Roll, 18 Edw. II., m. 5 d.]

Deed by Stephen de Eldham, Lord of Dertford, relating to
tenements in Basyngelane, London. The Mayor and Sheriffs of
London, and others, including Richard le Chaucer, are witnesses. No
date. Acknowledged in Chancery, 7 June.

8.

1326, Jan., to 1327, Oct.— Action in the King's Bench1 by Richard
le Chaucer and Mary his -wife against Agnes Westhale, Thomas

1 Compare Mr. Rye's version of these proceedings, quoted by Prof. Skeat in
the " Life," pp. xi, xii.

142 A.D. 1326-7. A bduction of JOHN CHAUCER, Geoffrey's Father.

Stace, and others, for abducting John, son and heir of Robert
Chaucer.

[Coram Rege Roll, Hilary, 19 Edw. II., No. 263, m. 13.]
PLEAS before the King at Norwich.

London, — Agnes, who was the wife of Walter de Westhale,
Thomas Stace, Geoffrey Stace, and Lawrence Geffreyesman Stace,
were attached to make answer to Richard le Chaucer of London
and Mary his wife of a plea wherefore — the wardship of the
land and heir of Robert le Chaucer appertaining to Richard and
Mary till the heir's lawful age, for that Robert held his land in
socage and Mary is next [of kin] to his heir, and they having
been in seisin of such wardship — the Defendants forcibly abducted
John, son and heir of the said Robert, being under age, from
their custody, at London, and married him against the will of
Plaintiffs and of the same heir, to their grievous damage. Robert
held one messuage with the appurtenances in Ipswich, and Mary
is mother of the heir and was formerly wife of Robert. Plaintiffs
were in seisin of the wardship for one year, and the heir is under
age, to wit, under fourteen years, and was in their custody at London,
in the Ward of Cordwanerstrete. The abduction took place on
Monday next before St. Nicholas, 18 Edw. II. [3 Dec., 1324], and
the heir was married to Joan, daughter of Walter de Esthalle
[Westhale ?]. Plaintiffs claim 300Z. damages.

Defendants say that action ought not to lie, because, according to
the custom of the borough of Ipswich from time immemorial, every
heir under age shall be in the nurture (nutritura) of the next of his
blood to whom the inheritance cannot descend, until the heir shall
complete the age of twelve years, and shall know how to reckon and
measure ; and that the heir completed that age and was sui juris
before the suing of the writ, and therefore ought not to be in any
one's wardship.

Plaintiffs rejoin that as Defendants do not deny that the ward
ship should appertain to Mary as next [of kin], and as the action is
personal and belongs to no other than to her as the mother, etc.,
therefore they pray judgment.

The matter was adjourned till Easter term, and then till Trinity
term, when, after a general denial by Defendants, who appeared by
John de Sud bury, their attorney, issue was joined and there was a
further adjournment till Michaelmas, and then to the morrow of All
Souls, when the Justices were absent. Afterwards the present
[late?] King " de regimine regni se demisit," and at Plaintiffs' suit a
precept was made to the Sheriffs for Defendants' appearance before
King Edward III. in Easter term in his first year, and for summoning
a jury of 24 men ; but Defendants did not appear, and the
Sheriffs returned that they had not been found in the bailiwick [i. e.
in London], etc. The Sheriffs also returned that they could not

A.D. 1326-8. Abduction O/JOHN CHAUCER. His Father's Widow. 143

bring a jury of 24 before the King, because Edward III. had newly
granted by charter to the Citizens of London that all inquisitions
concerning men of that City should be taken at St. Martin's le
Grand, except in Iters at the Tower of London and for delivery of
the Gaol of Newgate. And thereupon William de Burgh, attorney
of the Mayor and Commonalty, prayed that the jury be adjourned
to St. Martin's le Grand. The matter was adjourned till
Trinity term for production of the said charter. Plaintiffs then
appeared by John de Ledenham, their attorney, and Defendants did
not appear ; and the Mayor and Commonalty produced the said
charter, dated 6 March, 1 Edw. III., and prayed that the jury might
be taken at St. Martin's le Grand. The Justices also received a writ
for allowance of the City's charters during all the King's reign.1
Thereupon the Sheriff was ordered to summon 24 men before the
King in the Quinzaine of St. Michael, unless in the meanwhile the
Justices should come to St. Martin's le Grand. Afterwards Plain
tiffs appeared before one of the Justices and two Aldermen 2 at St.
Martin's le Grand, William de Burgh being attorney of the said
Mary, and Defendants did not appear ; and because in Easter term
last, in the King's Court at York, it was considered that the said jury
should be taken by default of Defendants, it is proceeded to take the
jury. The jurors say that Defendants by night forcibly abducted the
said John, son and heir of Robert, being under age and in Plaintiffs'
wardship, at London, in the Ward aforesaid, but that Defendants did
not marry the heir ; and they assess the damages at 250/. Judgment
was deferred till Michaelmas, when Plaintiffs appeared before the
King at York, John de Ledenham being Mary's attorney, and judg
ment is given that Plaintiffs do recover their said damages, and that
Defendants be taken.

9.

1328, Oct. 13. — Property of Richard le Chaucer and Mary his ivifv,
and Thomas, her son.

[Rusting Roll, 56, No. 155.]

Will of Thomas de Evenefeld, pepperer. He bequeaths to
Andrew Aubree his leasehold interest in a tenement held under
Richard le Chaucer and Mary his wife and Thomas, her son, near
Sopereslane, in the parish of St. Antonin. Dated at London,
Saturday next after the feast of St. Edward the King, 1328.

10.

1328. — Geoffrey Stace appeals to the King and Council against the
Judgment in favour of Richard and Mary Chaucer.
[Ancient Petitions, No. 8432. Parliament Rolls, II. 14 ; Petitions,
2 Edw. III., No. 6.]

1 The passage implies that a fresh writ was requisite at the beginning of
each reign. 2 See their names in Riley's L'iber Albus, p. 437.

144 A.D. 1328-1336. Me JOHN CHAUCER'S Abduction.

Petition of Geoffrey Stace to the King and his Council, that
whereas heretofore a writ for abduction of a ward was ordained by
Statute only in respect of wardship appertaining to a lord, Richard
le Chancier,1 of London, and Mary his wife, in the time of the late
King Edward, brought such a writ against Anneise, who was the wife
of Walter de Westhale, him the said Geoffrey, and others, in the
King's Bench, concerning John, son and heir of Robert de Chaucier,
under age and in their wardship, etc. The damages were taxed at
250/., although the tenements of the heir were worth no more than
20s. a year. He prays the King and Council that the record of the
plea may be brought into Parliament ; and as the heir is with the
Plaintiffs, and unmarried, that some remedy may be provided in
respect of the damages, by attaint, or in some other manner. (In
French.')

" Answer. — Let this petition be delivered to Sir Geoffrey le Scrop,
to bring the record and process before the Council." (In Latin.)2

11.

1329, Oct. — Geoffrey Stace1 s appeal is dismissed, and he himself

imprisoned.

[City of London Records, Liber Albus, pp. 437—141. Riley's edition.]
Further proceedings relative to the action by Richard le Chaucer
of London and Mary his wife against Geoffrey Stace and others.
Stace alleged that the jury who tried the action at St. Martin's le
Grand had made a false oath. A precept, dated 28 Oct., 2 Edw. III.
[1328], was thereupon sent to the Sheriffs to summon the jurors
before the King, but the Sheriffs returned that no " attaint" ought
to be taken for anything happening within the City. The parties
appeared in the King's Court several times, in Easter, Trinity, and
Michaelmas terms following, and the King's Attorney argued that
the attaint ought to be tried ; but the Justices required Stace to show
cause why they should not obey the King's writ for allowance of the
City's liberties, and as he could not prove that any attaint was
ever taken in the City upon a jury of the City, judgment was given
that the attaint be altogether annulled. Moreover, as Stace had been
convicted of the trespass against the King's peace charged against him
by the Plaintiffs, he was committed to the Marshal.

12.

1336, Nov. 12. — Inquest concerning the death of Simon Chaucer,
brother of Richard.

[City of London Records, Coroner's Roll, F, No. 4.]

1 Chancier, in the printed edition of the Parliament Rolls.

2 This petition is undated.

A.D. 1336-8. Simon Chaucer's Death. JOHN c. going abroad. 145

CORDEWANERSTRETE.

On Tuesday after St. Martin, 10 Edward III. [12 November], the
Coroner and Sheriffs were informed " that one Simon Chaucer lay
dead of another death than his own in the rent (redd") of Richard
Chaucer, his brother, in the parish of St. Mary of Aldermarichirche,
in the ward of Cordewanerstrete ; " whereupon they repaired thither ;
and having assembled the worthy men of the same ward and of the
three nearest wards, they diligently inquired how this happened, by
the oath of 26 Jurors (named).

The Jurors say that Simon Chaucer and one Robert de Upton,
skinner, on Monday before St. Luke the Evangelist last [14 October],
after dinner, quarrelled with one another in the high street opposite
to the shop of the said Robert, in the said parish, by reason of
rancour previously had between them, whereupon Simon wounded
Robert on the upper lip ; which John de Upton, son of Robert,
perceiving, he took up a " dorbarre," without the consent of his
father, and struck Simon on the left hand and side, and on the head,
and then fled into the church of St. Mary of Aldermarichirche ; and
in the night following he secretly escaped from the same. He had
no chattels. Simon lived, languishing, till the said Tuesday, when
he died of the blows, early in the morning. The body was seen,
and the blows appeared. Robert was taken on suspicion to the house
of one of the Sheriffs. The Sheriffs are ordered to attach the said
John when he can be found in their bailiwick, and the four nearest
neighbours.

Four neighbours attached : — William de Thorneye, Richard
Chaucer (by Richard de Syppenham and Hugh le Blound), Richard
de Welford, William de Derby.

13.

1338, June 12. — John CJiaucer, going abroad in the King's service.

[Almain Roll, 12 Edvv. III., p. 1, m. 8. Rymer's Fcedera, v. 51,

or ii. pt. iv. 23.]

Royal letters of protection for John Chaucer, who is about to go
with the King in the King's service and by his command to parts
beyond the sea ; to endure till Christinas next. Dated at Walton,
12 June.

There are similar protections to many other persons, some going
with the King, some with Queen Philippa, some with Henry of
Lancaster, Earl of Derby, etc.

14.

1339, April 30, May 23, and June 7. — Conveyance and release by
Thomas Heroun to Richard Chaucer of a tenement in London ;
with a release by Joan de Bercote.

[Husting Roll, 66, No. 41.]

146 A.D. 1339-40. RICHARD c., 3rd husband of Robert C's Widow.

Deed by Thomas Heroun, citizen and vintner of London, granting
to Richard Chaucer, also citizen and vintner, a tenement with cellars,
solars, etc., in the parish of St. Michael of Paternostercherche, in the
Ward of Vintry; abutting on Kyronlane, the royal street called
la Biole, etc. ; which tenement he had of the gift of John de Amyens,
citizen and saddler (cellaring) of London, and Joan his wife. John
Chaucer is one of the witnesses. Dated at London, Friday before
St. Philip and James, 13 Edward III.1

\_lbid., No. 42.]

Deed of release by the same to the same, of the same tenement.
John Chaucer, witness. Dated at London, Sunday, feast of Holy
Trinity, 13 Edward III.

*., No. 88.]

Deed of Joan, widow of Stephen de Bercote, releasing to Richard
Chaucer, citizen and vintner, all her right of dower in the tenement
which he acquired from Thomas Heyron, as above. Dated at
London, Wednesday, Translation of St. Thomas the Martyr,
13 Edward III.

15.

1340, March 1. — Assessment of Richard Chaucer to a loan bij the
City of London to the King.

[City of London Records, Letter Book F, ff. 32&— 34.]

Memorandum, that on Ash Wednesday, 14 Edward III., Sir
Edward de Askeby, the King's clerk, came to the Guildhall, and
announced on the King's behalf to Andrew Aubri, Mayor, that he
and all the Aldermen, with the more discreet and wealthy men of the
City, were to be before the King and his Council at Westminster, on
Thursday following, for certain arduous matters touching the estate of
the King and the whole kingdom. They then appeared before the
King, who by word of mouth made mention of the charges laid out
and to be laid out by him in his war in parts beyond the sea ; and
he requested them to lend him 20,OOOZ. sterling for a certain term.
They prayed leave to speak thereof [among themselves], and an
adjournment was granted till Friday, when they offered 5,000 marks,
which offer was reported by the Earls of Warwick and Huntingdon
and others to the King, who refused it, and commanded them on
their faith and allegiance to take better counsel, and to have the
names of all the more wealthy men of the City before him on Sunday
following, in order that he and his Council might assess them at the
said sum of 20,000/. On Sunday, a little after sunrise, the Mayor,
Aldermen, and "an immense Commonalty" assembled in the
Guildhall, when, to avoid the King's indignation and other perils,

1 See Forewords, p. 134.

A.D. 1340-4. RICHARD CHAUCER. JOHN CHAUCER, Geoffrey's Father. 147

they agreed, although it was hard and difficult, to grant 5,OOOZ.,
provided the King would find sufficient security for repayment.
Sir John Pulteney, the Mayor, and Roger de Depham went to the
King, and informed him of this grant, which he accepted, and
amiably commended his citizens. On the same day twelve men were
elected and sworn to assess the said sum without favour or malice.
Their assessment is set out, and includes —

Andrew Aubry, Mayor ... ... 100?.

Richard Chaucer ... ... ... 101.

In all, 232 names.

16.

1341, Dec. 20. — Richard Chaucer, witness to a deed.
[Ancient Deeds, B. 1977, 1976; enrolled on the Husting Roll, 69, Nos. 2, 3.]
Deed by John de Ichynton, of the county of Warwick, and Alice
his wife, daughter of Henry de Coteford, of Leuesham, smith,
formerly maid (ancilla) of John de Kent, called Sackere, late citizen
of London, granting to Andrew Aubrey, citizen and pepperer of
London, the reversion of a shop with solar in the parish of All Saints
of Bredstrete, London, etc. Richard Chaucer, one of the witnesses.
Dated. Thursday, the eve of St. Thomas the Apostle, 15 Edw. III.
Also, a deed of release of the same, on the following day.
Richard Chaucer, witness. Two seals to each deed.

17.

1342, Aug. 1. — John Ctiaucer, of London, vintner.

[City of London Records, Letter Book F, f. 63. Riley's Memorials,
pp. 213, 214.]

Ordinance by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of London,
made on Thursday,1 the feast of St. Peter in Chains, 16 Edw.
III., against the sale of bad wine in taverns, and ordering that one
of any company frequenting a tavern should be allowed to visit the
cellar, in order to see that the measures or vessels into which the
wines are to be poured are empty and clean, and from what butt or
pipe the wines are drawn. Among fifteen vintners present, and con
senting, were John Chaucer and John de Stodeye.

18.

1344, Feb. 28, and March 1. — Conveyance and release to Richard
Chaucer of a tenement over London Bridge.

[Husting Roll, 71, No. 20.]

Deed by John Fort, granting to Richard Chaucer, citizen and
vintner of London, a tenement in the corner next London Bridge, at
a place called the Barres, in the parish of St. Olave of Suthewerk,
1 Not Monday, as in Riley.

148 A.D. 1344-6. RICHARD LE CHAUCER.

which the donor had of the gift of his mother- Agnes, widow of
"William Fort> of Westwyghtring.1 The abuttals are set out. Dated
at London, Saturday after St. Matthias, 18 Edward III.2

[Ibid., No. 21.]

Deed of release by the same to the same, of the same tenement.
Dated at London, Monday after St. Matthias, 18 Edward III.

19.

1344, July 23. — Richard le Chaucer ', appointed executor to John de
Grantham.

[Huating Roll, 72, No. 3.]

Will of John de Grantham, citizen and pepperer of London.
He leaves six marks of yearly rent for the support of a chaplain tb
celebrate for ever in the chapel which he had erected next the south
side of the church of St. Antonin, in honour of St. Anne and other
saints, for the souls of himself and certain relatives. He mentions
Sir John de Hitchen, then rector of the said church. He appoints
William de Grantham, his brother, William de Thorneye, John de
Gunwardeby, his valet, and Richard le Chaucer, citizen and vintner,
to be his executors. Dated at London, Friday after the feast of St.
Mary Magdalen, 1344, 18 Edward III.3

20.
1345, Sept. 8. — Richard Chaucer, loitness to a deed.

[City of London Records, Letter Book F, f. 110&.4]
Indenture between Edmund, son of Margery de Stebbenheth,
and Thomas Bonde, citizen, touching a tenement in the parish of St.
Mary of Aldermariecherche, abutting on a shop of Richard Chaucer
and on Watlyngstrete. Andrew Aubrey, then Alderman of that
ward. William de Thorneye, Richard Chaucer, and others, witnesses.
Dated at London, Thursday, Nativity of B. V. Mary, 19 Edward III.

21.

1346. — Assessment of Richard Chaucer to a gift and a loan to
the King.

[City of London Records, Letter Book F, ff. 121—123.]

Names of men chosen by the Wards of London to assess all
having goods and chattels to the value of IQL and upwards, for the
payment of 3,000 marks, whereof the Mayor, Aldermen, and
Commonalty gave to the King 1,000, and lent him 2,000, viz. in the

1 West Wittering, Sussex. 2 See Forewords, p. 134.

3 This will is of unusual length. 4 Not 111, as in Riley's Memorials.

A.D. 1346-9. RICHARD CHAUCER. Wills of him $ T. Hayron. 149

time of Richard Lacer, Mayor, 20 Edward ITI. Among many
others — •

Richard Chaucer 6Z. 1 mark.

\_Ibid., ff. 124, 125.]
Receipts of the aforesaid 3,000/. Among others —

From Richard Chaucer ... 10 marks.1

22.

1348, March 6. — Release of rent due from Richard Chaucer's house.

[Husting Roll, 75, No. 33.]

Deed by John Box, son of John Box of Pontefract, releasing to
Richard Chaucer, citizen and vintner, two marks of yearly free and
quit rent, which the releasor used to receive from Chaucer's newly
built tenement at the corner of Kirounlane, in the parish of St.
Michael of Paternostercherche. William Heyroun is one of the
witnesses. Dated at London, 6 March, 22 Edward III.

23.

1349, April 7. — Will of Thomas Hayron, appointing John Chaucer,
his [half-]brotker, to be his executor.

[Husting Roll, 76, No. 169. Nicolas's Life, note A.]
On Monday after Sts. Philip and James, 23 Edward III., " John,2
brother of Thomas Hayron, and executor of the testament of the same
Thomas," came, and caused the said testament to be proved, by
William Hayron, vintner, and Robert de Sudbery, skinner, witnesses,
sworn. The will describes Thomas himself as " citizen and vintner."
He bequeaths all his tenements in the City of London to be sold
"per manus Johewmis3 Chaucer, fra^ris mei." Dated at London,
7 April, 1349, 23 Edward III.

24.

1349, April 12. — Richard Chaucer's Will, mentioning Mary, his late
wife, and Thomas Heyroun, her son.

[Husting Roll, 77, No. 59. Nicolas, note A.]

Will of Richard Chaucer, citizen and vintner of London. He is
to be buried in the church of St. Mary of Aldermariechirche. He
bequeaths to the parishioners and the parson of the said church all
his tenement with tavern (taberna) in the street called la Riole, upon
the corner of Kyrounlane, in order that they may present and find a
fit chaplain to celebrate a mass of requiem daily for the souls of him
self, Mary, formerly his wife, and of Thomas Heyroun, her son, in
the said church, at the altar of St. Mary and St. Anne, next the
tomb of the said Mary. The chaplain is to receive six marks " yearly

1 John Stodeye paid 40*. 2 The surname, Chaucer, is omitted here.
3 " le " struck out.

150 A.D. 1349. RICHARD CHAUCER'S Will. JOHN CHAUCER'S Sales.

for ever," and to be present in the said church at all the canonical
hours. The said parishioners and parson are also to pay yearly to the
parishioners and the parson of the church of St. Michael of Pater-
nosterchirche 40s., for the support of one fit chaplain to celebrate
divine offices in that church. He bequeaths to the latter parishioners
and parson a tenement over London Bridge, next "les Stouples,"
upon the corner towards South wark, so that they may l [out of the
said tenement and out of] the said 40s. present and find a tit chaplain
to celebrate daily for the souls abovesaid in St. Michael's church in
the manner aforesaid, he to receive six marks yearly. The residue of
the profits of the said tenements is to be employed on the fabrics of
the said churches. Executors, Henry atte Strete and Richard de
Mallyng. Dated at London, on the day of the feast of Easter, 1349,
23 Edward III.2

Proved by Simon Chaumberleyn and Richard de Litlebury, on
Monday, feast of St. Margaret the Virgin [July 20], in the same
year.

25.

1349, May 13. — John Chaucer sells a tenement late of Thomas
Hayron.

[Husting Roll, 76, No. 190.]

Deed by John Chaucer, brother and executor of Thomas Hayron,
citizen and vintner, selling and granting to William de Thorneye, citizen
and pepperer, all that shop which the said Thomas had in the parish
of St. Antonin, abutting on Wattlingstret on the north. Andrew
Aubrey was then Alderman of " that ward." William Hayron and
others, witnesses. Dated at London, Wednesday after St. John ante
Portam Latinam, 23 Edward III.

26.
1349, June 20. — John Chaucer 'mentioned.

[Husting Roll, 77, No. 141.]

Will of William de Thorneye, citizen and pepperer. It refers to
a shop acquired by him from John Chaucer, brother and executor of
Thomas Heyroun, late vintner, in the parish of St. Antonin.3 Dated
at London, 20 June, 1349, 23 Edward III.

27.

1349, June 30, and July 13. — Conveyance and release by John
Chaucer of a tenement late of Thomas Heyroun.

[Husting Roll, 77, No. 89.]

Deed by " Joha/wes Chaucer, ciuis et vinetariws Londom'e,
executor testamenti Thome Hayroun, hatris mei, quonda??z ciuis et

1 Some words are omitted here in the roll.

2 Discovered by Dr. Fumivall ; see Atlienceum,, Dec. 13, 1873, p. 772 ;
Forewords, p. 134. 3 " Antonij " in the Roll.

A.D. 1349. JOHN AND AGNES CHAUCER, GEOFFREY'S Parents. 151

vinetarij Londome," granting to Andrew Aubrey, pepperer, a tenement
in the parish of St. Mary of Aldermarichirche, which the said Thomas
bequeathed to be sold. Aubrey was then Alderman of that Ward.
Dated at London, Tuesday, the morrow of Sts. Peter and Paul,
23 Edward III.

[Ibid., No. 90.]

Deed of release by the same to the same, of the same tenement.
Dated at London, Monday after the Translation of St. Thomas the
Martyr, 23 Edward III.1

28.

1349, Oct. 3. — John Chaucer mentioned.
[Husting Roll, 86, No. 143.]

Will of Andrew Aubrey, pepperer. He bequeaths tenements in
the parishes of St. Mary de Aldermariecherche and St. Thomas the
Apostle, and certain others which he had by sale and grant of John
Chaucer, brother and executor of Thomas Heyroun, late vintner, in
the said parish of St. Mary. He refers to the chapel which he had
recently built, adjoining the church of St. Antonin. Dated at
London, 3 October, 23 Edw. III.

29.

1349, Nov. 11. — Release to John Chaucer of property late of Hamo
de Copton.

[Husting Roll, 77, No. 246.]

Deed of release by Nigel de Hakeneye, son and heir of Richard
de Hakeneye, formerly Alderman of London, to John Chaucer, citizen
and vintner, of tenements and free rents in London and Middlesex,
formerly of Hamo de Copton. Dated at London, 11 November, 23
Edward III.

30.

1352, Sept 14. — John Chaucer, witness to a deed.
[City of London Records, Letter Book F, f. 216.]

Deed by Nicholas Bulietti of Florence, citizen of London, and
Elizabeth his wife, granting to Henry Picard, citizen and vintner,
20 marks sterling of yearly free and quit rent out of all their
tenements in the parish of St. Stephen of Walbroke, for the term of
eight years. Witnesses : John de Stoday and others, including John
Chauncer. Dated at London, Eriday, Exaltation of Holy Cross,
26 Edward III.

1 bn. 16 July, 1349, "John Chausey" received a "gift" of 6s. Sd. from
Queen Philippa, for bringing to her at Devizes a black palfrey, from the Bishop
of Salisbury [Robert Wyvill], — Exchequer T. R. Miscellaneous Books, No.
205, p. 13.

152 A.D. 1349-57. CHAUCER'S Father and Mother. Payments to C .

31.

1354, April 3. — Conveyance by John Chaucer and Agnes his wife of
a brewhouse, shops, etc., in Aldgate.

[Ancient Deeds, A. 1603 ; enrolled on the Husting Roll, 82, No. 71.1]

Deed by John Chaucer, citizen and vintner of London, and
Agnes his wife, granting to Simon de Plaghe, physician (medico),
citizen of London, and Joan his wife, all that brewing tenement, with
houses, buildings, and garden adjacent, and two shops and solars, in
Algatestrete, London, in the parish of St. Botulph, between the
tenements of Cristin Stowe arid Alexander Mareschal on the east and
west ; one head extending to la Ny we Abbeye, towards the south, and
the other head to the King's highway, towards the north ; which
tenement was formerly of Hamo de Copton, uncle of Agnes, and
descended to Agnes by hereditary right. Thomas de Caxton, one
of the witnesses. Dated Thursday, 3 April, 1354.

Two seals of arms (indistinct). One has the legend, Sigillum
Johannis (?) Chaucer, the arms appearing to be Ermine, on a chief
three birds' heads, issuant, as in Nos. 38 and 41. The other seal (of
Agnes) has no legend, the arms being a chevron, as in No 41.

Endorsed : — Enrolled in the Husting of London. (Many of the
other Chaucer deeds have similar endorsements.)

32.

1357, Jan. 12. — Reference to the brewhouse outside Aldgate, formerly

belonging to John Chaucer.

[Ancient Deeds. A. 1602 ; enrolled in the Husting Roll, 84, No. 126.]
Deed by Simon de Plaghe, physician (medicus) and citizen of
London, and Joan his wife, granting to William le Fourner, citizen
and butcher of the said city, in fee, all that brewing tenement, etc.,
which they lately had of the gift of John Chaucer, citizen and vintner
of London, and Agnes his wife, in the parish of St. Botulph without
Algate. Thomas de Caxton and others, witnesses. Dated at
London, 12 January, 30 Edward III.

33.

1357, April to Dec. — Payments to and for Geoffrey Chaucer, then
in the Household of the Duchess of Clarence.

[Addit. MS. 18,632 ; if. 2, 101, fly-leaves.2]

Fragments of the Household Accounts of Elizabeth, Countess of
Ulster, wife of Lionel, Duke of Clarence, third son of King Edward
III., 1356-9. (There is no title, and this description is derived from
internal evidence.)

1 See Atliencciim, Dec. 13, 1873, p. 772.

2 This MS. contains Lydgate's Siege of TJieles, and Hoccleve's De
Regimine Princijrum. A full copy of these fly-leaves is printed in Life
Record* of Chaucer, III., 105—113, in a paper by Dr. E. A. Bond.

A. D. 1357-9. Payments for CHAUCER'S Clothes. Hi* Ransom. 153

f. 2&. — [DE GARDEROBA.]

Pro fac^ura garniture 'Philippe Panetan'e, ex precepto Domine,
apud Redm?', xxiiij. die JuK/, anno xxx° — viij s. * * *

Pro iactura j tum'ce Pht'K^pe Paneta^'e, Londo?we, contfra d^ctfwm
festum [Sancti Georg^}', mense Apnl&, anno predicto — xxxj°] per
dictum Rfobertum] Pynel — ij. s. vj. d .......... l Galfn'tfo

Chaucer, Londo;«e, xx° die Maij, anno predicto — ij. s. * * *

Pro factors j. corsetti pro Philippa Panetaria, et pro opere peltn'e
....... l im* dictePhilip2)e, de precept o Dowme, apwd Wyndesor',

xxj° die ApriliSy a?wo predicto — ij. s.

f. 101*.— [DONA.]

Cuidam Paltokmakere Londow'e pro j. paltok' [ab eo empto et] l
liberal GalfnWo Chaucer, de eon8tm*7t dono Do?/«ne, ib^em, eiisde??z.
die et anno [Londome, iiij° die Aprilis, anno p?'ed^c£o — xxxj° ?] — iiij. s.
Pro j. pari ....... l nigr' et rub', et j. pari sotulorww, empfo's

Londom'e et liheratis eide?w Galfr^o, de consimili dono Domtne,
ibidem [eiisdem die et anno 1] l — iij. s. * * *

Cuidara garcio/w' vewienti cum Philippa Paneton'a de Pullesdon'
vsqwe HaitfeW de [consimili dono Domine l], ibidem, eiisdem die et
a?wo [Londonie, xx. die Decembm, anno xxxj ?] — xij. d. GalfnWo
Chaucer, de consimili dono Domme, [pro necessariis contra festu]m
~Natiuitatis ib^em, eiisde?« die et anno — ij s. vj d. * * *

34.

1359, Nov. 3, to 1360, Nov. 7.— Account of William de Farle,
Keeper of the Wardrobe of the King's Household, containing
the entry of Edward ///.'s contribution towards the ransom of
Chaucer after he was taken prisoner by the French.

[Exchequer Q. R. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, 3T9T3-] 2
FARLE.

LIBER de particwlis Compo^i WilleZrai de Farle, Custod/s
Garderooe Hospicy Reg/s, de Recepte's, \\heracionibus t et expensis
faciis in eadem Garde?*o&a a tercio die Nouembn's anno xxxiijto
vsque vijum diem Nouembres anno xxxiiij*0.

Hunc librum continentem Cxxvj folia Iib0rauit hie WilleZmus
de Farle, Gustos Garderobe Dommi Regis, xij° die Maij anno xxxvto
Regis Edwardi tercij post conquestum, per inanus suas proprias.

1 Cutoff.

2 A parchment book consisting of one hundred and twenty-six leaves bound
in parchment. A third part of the book is occupied with the account of the
daily expenses of the Household ; the remaining portion contains the ' Elemo-
sine,' l Dona] ' Vadia Guerre ' (including very numerous items), ' Vadia
Pads,' 'Necessar'taJ and ' PrestitaS This book was delivered into the
Exchequer by William de Farle on the 12th of May, 1361.— W. D. S.

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 11

154 A.D. 1359-60. CHAUCER'S Ransom for £16.

[f. 69.]— DONA.

Domino Andree Luterell', existent/ apud Calesiam eundo versus
partes Franeie, in recompensaciowem vnius equi sui mortm', de dono
Regis, iij° die Nouembris anno xxxiij0, vj li. xiij s. iiij d. * * *
JUicardo Stwry, scntifero Regis, capto per inimicos France, in
subside??! redempcionia sue, de consimili dono Regis, 1 li. Georgio,
valetto Comitisse Vltonie, consimiliter capto per inimico? Francie,
in subsidiuw redempcioms sue, de consimili dono Regis, x li.
Nicho/ao Fauconer, consi??ieliter capto per inimicos Francie, in
subsidiura redempcio/zis sue, de consimili dono Reg^s, x li. WilleZrao
Verder, valletto Domine Regine, consiwiliter capto per inimicos, in
svibsidium redempcio^'s sue, de consimili dono Regis, x li. Johanni
Parker, valHto Domine Isabelle, consimilit&i' capto per inimicos, in
subsidium redempcionis sue, de consimili dono Regis, ix li. xij s.
Roberto Sadler, valletto sellato Hospice; Regis, in subsidium expen-
sarum suamm in parbibus Francie, de consimili dono Regis, xxiiij s.
Johanni Noble, capto per imnu'cos Francie, in subsidiura redemp-
cionis sue, de consimili dono Reg^s, xl s. * * * Domino WilleZwo
de Grawntsom', Milit/s Burgund^'e, in subsidium ledempcionis j.
scntiferi sui captz per in/nucos F?'«nc/e, de consi?nili dono Regis,
xiij0 die Decembm, xx li. * * * Johanni de York', carectan'o
Regis, et vij sociis suis c&ptis per inimicos, in subeidibtm redemp-
cionis sue, de consimili dono Regis, xij li. * * * "Ricardo de
Barton' et Willelmo de Pulle^ria, prouisor/o^s offici/ PnlLetrie, capfo's
per im'me'cos, in subsidium redempcio^is sue, de consimili dono
Regis, tercio die February anno supradwtfo, x li. * * * Johanni
de Chaumpeigne, Capella/io, capto per im'rmcos, in subsidium
redempcio^is sue, de consimili dono Regis, die et anno supradicfts,
viij li. * * * Franconi de Pomeire, licencia^o ad p«?-tes suas
p?-oprias, de consimili dono Regis, primo die Marcij anno supradicto,
xij li. * * *

[f. 70.]

Galfh'do Chaucer, capto per iwimicos in partibws Francie,
in subsidiuw redenipciowis sue, de consimili dono Regis, die et anno
supradictfis, xvj li. * * * Johanni Horwode et Thome de Chestre,
g&rcionibus, captis per inimicos, in subsidium redempcio?ws sue, de
consimili dono Regis, lij. s. Johanni de Massyngham et vallertis
sub ipso Carpentaria's reparant^o^s pontem de Brenon', de consimili
dono Regis, iiij li. Domino Johanni de Beurle, in subsidiu??i vni«is
cwrsorij sibi emendi, fde consimili dono Regis, tercio die February,
xx li. Domino Roberto de Clynton' pro vno equo sibi emendo, de
consimili dono Regt's, tercio die Marcy anno supradicto, xvj li. xiij s.
iiij d.1 * * * Galfrido Hakkyng' et Thome de Stanes, vallectis
Domme Regine, consimiliter captis per immicos, in subsidium expen-

1 Chaucer was thus valued by his King at 13s. 4d. less than Sir Robert de
Clyuton's horse. — F. J. F.

A.D. 1361. The Yeomen of K. Edward IIL's Chamber. 155

sanmi suarzim, vtriqwe eomm viij li., de consinuH dono Regis,
xvj li. * * *

[f. 70£]

Eicardo Dulle, sagitt<m'o, capto per mimicos in pariibus Frances,
in subsi'cta^ redenipci'o?^s sue, de consimili dono Reg/s eisxlem die
et anno supradi'c^is, xl s. * * *

[f. 72.]

Oweyno de Charleton', scntifero, pro redempcione vnius Fabri de
F/anci'a capts! per Wallense* sub eodem Owyno, de consimili dono
Reg/*', xl. s.1

35.

1361, June 29. — Extracts from the Account of John de Neubiiry,
Keeper of the Great Wardrobe, giving the names of the Yeomen
of the King's Chamber?

[Exchequer L. T. R. Wardrobe Enrolled Accounts, No. 4, m. 4.]
COMPOTUS Joha?mis de Neubury, Clerici, Custodis Magne Garde-
robe Regis, * * * de omnimodis Receptis, empcKwibws, et
expenses per prefaium Johannem de Neubury in eadem Gaideroba
facfis, a festo Omnium Sanctorum, anno xxxiiij*0 finiente, * * *
vsqwe xxix. diem Junij anno xxxvto. * * *

Liberac/o?ies p&imorum, pellure, specienm, et sliarum TQtum
dmersarum. — Idem computat liberasse * * * Et Thome
Cheygne et xvij sociis suis, [Hugoni Cheigny, Henrico de Almaigne,
Johanni de Beuerley, Thome Loueden', Reginaldo de ^T'euport,
Ricardo de Armis, Willelmo Heruy, Johanni Serle, Nicholao de
Garderoba, Johanni Tipet1, Nicholao Paiable, Willelmo de Naples,
Rogero Grote, Thome Forcer, Johanni de London', Gerardo Hauberger,
et Hugoni Joignur,] vallectis Camere Regis, quorwm nomma anno-
tant?^?- in di'cfo rotulo de paHiczdis,3 pro robis suis infra tempus
predictum, cvalibei videlicet eoium iij vlnas [panni] color/5 curti, et

1 The Dona in the Wardrobe Accounts of 40-41 Edw. III. present a
curious contrast to the war ones of 1360 : they are mostly rewards for presents
of porpoises, of fresh salmon ' calwar,' lampreys, loches, etc., caught in the
Thames; of flounders and butts ; of heronceux, larks, cygnets, and other birds ;
of fat bucks ; of a white courser called Blanchard Kyng, to the Queen ; for
horses killed in the King's service ; to ferrymen and their families, for ferrying
the King and his attendants over the Thames at Datchet, at Rede Wynd near
Chertsey, at Shene, or over the Medway, etc. ; and at the end come divers
presents of wine to abbots, monks, Alice Ferrers, etc. My native village,
Egham, is not mentioned, but the next one of Staines is : " Alicie Cokes de
Stanes, p?v?sentati domino Regi vnu?M salmonen calwar, de consimili dono
Regis, xxvij die Marcij, xx. s." — F. J. F.

"2 The original Account of J. de Neubury (now, Q. R. Wardrobe Accts. -3T9^)
apparently contains a complete list of the names of the members of the King's
Household at this date ; Chaucer's name, however, does not appear in the
Roll.
3 The names are taken from the Account mentioned in the preceding note.

156 A.D. 1365. Sales by CHAUCER'S Fattier and Mother.

iij vlnas [panni] radiafc', ac vnam fururaw agnelU' ; ij pannr/s et viij
vlna# coloris curti, ij pannos et vj vluas racU'afc', e£ xviij fururas
agnelli; per brewe Regis datz^ra xxv*0 die Nonembris dicto anno
xxxiiijto, et hVeras acquietawa'e eorwwdem vall&tforwm de lecepcione,
sicut continetur ibidem.

36.

1363, Feb. 9-16. — John Chaucer and Agnes his wife, parties to a Fine
relating to land in Stepney and without Aldgate.
[Feet of Fines, London and Middlesex, Edw. III., file 69, No. 402.] l

Final Concord, made at Westminster, in the Octave of the
Purification, 37 Edw. III., between John de Stodeye, citizen and
vintner of London, plaintiff, and John Chauser, of London, and
Agnes his wife, deforciants, concerning 10 J acres of land with the
appurtenances in Stebenheth and [in] the parish of St. Mary
Mattefelon without the bar of Algate, London. Deforciants
acknowledged the right of plaintiff as holding of their gift, to him
and his heirs ; and they granted for themselves and the heirs of
Agnes that they will warrant, etc. — Middlesex.

37.

1363, Aug. 8. — Another reference to John Chaucer1 s brewhouse out
side Aldgate.
[Ancient Deeds, A. 1598 ; enrolled on the Husting Roll, 91, No. 154.]

Deed by the executors of William le Fourner, late citizen and
butcher of London, granting to John de Norton and William de
Grendon, citizens, in fee, all that brewing tenement, etc., which he
purchased from Simon de Plaghe, physician, and Joan his wife, in
the parish of St. Botulph without Algate, and which was formerly of
John Chaucer, vintner, and Agnes his wife. Thomas Caxton and
others, witnesses. Dated 8 August, 37 Edw. III. Two seals,
broken.

38.

1363, Nov. 30. — Conveyance by John Chaucer and Agnes his wife of
the rent of a tenement without Aldgate; with their seals of arms.

[Ancient Deeds, E. 465. 2]

Deed by John Chaucer, citizen and vintner of London, and Agnes
his wife, granting to Nicholas Longg', citizen and butcher, those
forty pence sterling of yearly free and quit rent which the grantors
lately had and used to receive from all that tenement, with the houses
built thereon and other its appurtenances, which the said Nicholas
holds at farm by demise of the Prior and Convent of Holy Trinity
within Algate, in the parish of St. Botulph without Algate, London ;

1 See note to the Fine of 1307. 2 Not on the Husting Roll.

A.D. 1363-5. CHAUCER'S Father balls 2 men, and sells land. 157

which tenement is situate between the tenement of John de Norton,
on the west, and another tenement of the said Nicholas, on the east :
to hold the same rent to Longg', his heirs, and assigns for ever, and
to receive it from any persons whomsoever to whom the tenement
shall devolve after the completion of his term ; with power to dis
train therein. The Mayor and Sheriffs are named, Brother Nicholas
Algate, Prior of Holy Trinity, being Alderman of that Ward. Ten
witnesses, including Thomas de Caxston. Dated at London, Thursday,
the feast of St. Andrew, 37 Edw. III.

Portions of two seals remain. The arms on John Chaucer's seal
are : Ermine, on a chief three birds' heads issuant.1 Agnes's is also
a seal of arms, but not the same as in Nos. 31 and 41, and with
the legend, " Sig. Willelmi " ......

39.

1365, April 4, and Sept. 12. — John Chaucer, bail for certain persons.
[City of London Records, Pleas and Memoranda, A. 10, m. 12.]

Pleas in the Husting, 38-39 Edward III.

Isabel de Chepsted complains against William Dyne, taverner,
that on 4th April, in the 39th year, he beat and wounded her,
against the King's peace, to her damage of 40s. The said William
acknowledges this in Court, and paid to the Commonalty, for blood
drawn, 20s. He is rnainprised by John Chaucer and William
Shirburne.

., m. 17 d.]
12 Sept., in the 39th year.

William Cornewaille, taillour, mainprised by John Chauncer and
Pliilip Herlawe.

40.

1365, June 22-29. — John Chaucer and Agnes his wife, parties to a
Fine relating to shojis and gardens without Aldgate.

[Feet of Fines, London and Middlesex, Edw. III., file 70, No. 433.] 2

Final Concord, made at Westminster, in the Quinzaine of Trinity,
39 Edw. III., between John de Stodeye, citizen and vintner of
London, plaintiff, and John Chaucer, of London, and Agnes his wife,
deforciants, concerning 24 shops and two gardens with the appur
tenances in the parish of St. Mary Matfeloun without Aldgate,
London, on a plea of covenant. Deforciants acknowledged the right
of plaintiff, and rendered to him in Court, to hold to him and his
heirs ; and they granted, etc. (as in No. 36). — Middlesex.

1 See letter of Mr. W. D. Selby in the Academy, Oct. 13, 1877, p. 3(54,
on the discovery of this deed bj' Mr. Floyd. Other similar seals of John Chuucer
will be found in Nos. 31 and 41. 2 See note to the Fine of 1307.

158 A.D. 1366-7. CHAUCER'S Father fy Mother. PHILIPPA c.'s Annuity.

41.

1366, Jan. 16. — Conveyance ly John Chaucer and Agnes his wife of
tenements outside Aldgate.

[Ancient Deeds, A. 1471 ; enrolled on the Husting Roll, 93, No. 154.]

Deed by John Chaucer, citizen and vintner of London, and Agnes
his wife, kinswoman and heir of Hamo de Copton, formerly citizen
and moneyer of the same City, granting to William atte Hale, citizen
and tavemer, and Agnes his wife, in fee, 60s. of yearly and quit rent,
issuing from certain tenements (described) in St. Botulph without
Aldgate, in the suburb of London, which rent descended to the said
Agnes Chaucer after the death of the said Hamo. The Prior of
Cricherche was then Alderman of that Ward. Several witnesses.
Dated at London, 16 January, 39 Edward III.

Two seals of the grantors, similar to those affixed to their deed of
3 April, 1354, No. 31, but the impressions are bad.1

42.

1366, Sept. IZ.—Philippa Chaucer, as "domicella" of the Queen's
Chamber, is granted an annuity of 10 marks for life.

[Patent Roll, 4.0 Edw. III., p. 2, m. 30.]

Pro "Philippe} Hex, Omnibus ad quos etc., saltern. Sciatis, quod
Chaucer. / de grac/a nostra. speciali et pro bono seruicio, quod
dilecte iiobe's "Philippa, Chaucer, vna domicellam?^
Camere Philippe^ Eegine Angh'e, Consortis no^re carissime, eidem
Consorti nosfre impendit, et impendet in futuraw, concessimws eidem
Pha7i#pe dece?^ marcas, percipiendas singulis annis ad Sc«ccar««m
nostrum, ad tenninos Sancti Michae/is et Pasche per equales porc/o?*es,
ad totam vita?^ ipsius 'Philippe, vel quousq?«e pro statu suo aliter
duxerimws ordinandz^m. In cuius etc. Teste ~Rege, apud Haueryng,
xij. die Beptembris.

Per brez/,e de priuato sigillo.

43.

1367, Jan. 31. — Account of the Keeper of the Wardrolie of the
Household,2 showing the names of the Esquires (?) who received
payment for their Summer Robes in the 40th year of the King's
reign.3

[Exchequer Q. R. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, ^fa.]

1 Forewords, p. 135, and Atlienceum, Dec. 13, 1873, p. 772, where the date
ia given as " 1369."

2 A book of 68 leaves, without any title. The daily expenses of the House
hold extend from 1 Feb. 1366 to 31 Jan. 1367. Chaucer's name is not in
here, where it would be expected to be. I went over the list twice. — F. J. F.

3 See the names in the Wardrobe Account, -% under date Xmas 1368.

A.D. 1367. Edio. IIl.'s Esquires. CHAUCER'S Mother a Widow. 159

FEODA ET KOBE.

Thome de Bello Campo, Petro de Breux, Ric«rdo de Pembrugg',
Alano de BuxliulT, mQittfou Regis, Rogero la Warde, Custodi
Domini Thome, filij Regis, [et] Johanni de la Lee, Senescallo Hospice}',
cmlibet eorum. pro robis suis estiualibus anni quadragesimi, liij. s.
iiij.d. ; et pro feodis suis a primo die Yebruarij anno quadragesimo
vsqiie vltimura diem January anno quadragesimo primo, pro vno
anno integro, cuih'oet eorum vj.li. xiij. s. iiij. d. — Ivj. li. . . .

WilleZwio de Dyghton', Willelmo

de Tyryngton'

Jolaanni Herlyng', Thome Cheyne, Hugo?!/' Wake, Georgw? Felbrugg',
Petro de Cornubt'a, Gilberto Talbot, Waltero Walssh', Thome Spyg?«r-
nell', Elmino Leget, Galfr/Jo Steucle, Joharani de Beuerle, Hugow
Cheyne, Stephcmo Asshwy, Jolicmni Beauchamp', Roberto de Corby,
Collardo Daprichecourt, Johanni Romesey, . . . et Johanni Olney,
cuil/oet eorum pro Tobis suis estiualibus anni p/-esent^, xx. s. —
Ixiiij. li.

44.

1367, May 6. — Agnes, widow of John Chaucer, remarries, and
becomes party to a deed.
[Ancient Deeds, E. 464 ; enrolled on the Husting Roll, 95, No. 80.]

Deed by Bartholomew atte Chapel, citizen and vintner of London,
and Agnes his wife, formerly wife of John Chancier, late citizen and
vintner of the said city, releasing to Nicholas Longe, citizen and
butcher of London, all right of dower in those forty pence of yearly
free and quit rent out of a tenement in St. Botulph's without Algate,
etc., as in the deed of 37 Edw. III. Brother Nicholas Algate is
described as Alderman of that Ward. Nine witnesses, including
Thomas de Caxton. Dated at London, 6 May, 41 Edward III.
Seals lost.1

45.

1367, May 12. — Agnes, widow of John Chaucer, as above.
[Husting Roll, 95, No. 81.]

Deed by the said Bartholomew and Agnes, releasing to William
Underwode, citizen and butcher, all right in that messuage with
curtilage adjacent which the said William and Juliana, late his wife,
had of the gift of John Chaucer, citizen and vintner, and the said
Agnes, late his wife, in Algate " stret," in the parish of St. Botolph
without Algate, situate between tenements of the Prior and Convent
of Holy Trinity, London, on the east and west. Dated at London,
12 May, 41 Edward III.

1 See Academy, Oct. 13, 1877, p. 365, as before.

160 A.D. 1367. PHILIPPA c.'s Annuity. GEOFFREY'S 1st Annuity.

46.

1367, June 2. — Philippa CJiaucer receives the first half -yearly
payment of her annuity.
[Issue Roll of the Exchequer, Pells, Easter, 41 Edw. III., m. 12.]

§ Die Mercim}', secundo die Junij.

"Philipp* \ "Philippe Chaucer, vni domicellanera Philippe, Re#me
Chaucer. / Anglie, cui Domimts Rex x mareo* annuas ad Scacc&rium
percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsam eidem Ee^'ne
impenso, qnousque aliter pro statu suo fue?-it prouisuw, per liters® suas
p&tentes nuper concessit : In denariY* sibi liberatis, in persolucionem v
marcamw sibi UberoiKZarum de haifttmocft certo suo, videZ/cet, de
te;fmi?io Pasche proximo pretcnYo, per bre?«e suu??i de liberal, inter
manda^a de hoc termino ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.1

47.

1367, June 20. — The King grants an annuity of 20 marks to

Geoffrey Chaucer, his beloved Yeoman.

[Patent Roll, 41 Edw. III., p. 1, m. 13. Rymer, vi. 567. Godwin's Life, App. V.]

Pro Gr&lfrido} Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, quod de

Chaucer. / graoa no^ra specisdi, et pro bono seruicio quod dilec^us

vallec^us nosier Galfr/c^us Chaucer nob/,s- impendit et

impendet infutun«?», concessim?^ ei viginti marcas, percipiendas

singulis annis ad Scaccarium nostrum, ad terminos Sancti Mich«e7is

et Pasche, per equales porcKwes, ad totam vitam ipmis G&lfridi, vel

quousq!<e pro statu suo iiter [duxerimus] ordinandsm. In cui?/s etc.

Teste Rege, apud Castrum de Quenesburgh', xx. die Jun//.

Per bre?^e de priuato sigillo.

48.

1367, Nov. 6. — The first half-yearly payment of Geoffrey ChauceSs
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich.,2 42 Edw. III., m. 9. Nicolas's Life, note B.]

§ Die Sabbati, vjto die Nouembm.

GalfnVius^ Galfri^o Chaucer, cui Domimis Rex xx marcas &nnuas

Chaucer. J ad Scaccarium pe?'cipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ip.^m

eidem Domino Regi impenso, per liters® suas patentee

nuper conce&^Y : In denam« s^6i liberal, in persolucio?iem, per manus

1 Payments to Mary Chastiller, Isabella Petyt, Elizabeth Chaundos, and
Mary de Sancto Hillario, precede this entry.

2 This roll covers the half-year beginning at Michaelmas in the 41st year,
and ending on the 24th March in the 42nd year. Hence the date of this .
payment, 6th November, occurred in 1367, in the 41st year, not in 1368, as
would at first sight be supposed. The same system of dating was observed
throughout the reign of Edward III. in respect of the Issue Rolls.

A.D. 1368. Payments of PHILIPPA <$• GEOFFREY c.'s Annuities. 161

propnas, x marcarum tibi liberandar&ra de bmusmodi cerio suo,
videh'fe/, de termitto Sarccti Michaelis proximo preterito, per Lrewe
su urn de liberate hoc termirao ...... vjli. xiijs. iiijd.

49.

1368, Feb. 19. — The half-yearly payment of Philippa Chaucer's
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 42 Edw. III., m. 24. Nicolas, note DD.]

§ Die Sabbr^i, xix° die Yebiuarij.

"Philippe \ fhilqipQ Chaucer, cui Domtntia Re# x inarms smnuas ad
Chaucer. J Scaccarium percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsam
Yliilippe, Re#me AngHe, impenso, per litei&s suas patentee
nupe?' conceg»it : In denariis sibi liber atis in persolucionem v
marmmw s/^/i liberand«?'wm de hui?^smo^' c0?*to suo, videlicet, de
te^-mmo [Sancti]1 Michaelis proximo preterito, per br^e su?w^ de
liberate, in^e?' maiidafa de hoc termi?io ... ... Ixvjs. viijd.

50.

1368, May 25. — The half-yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer's
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 42 Edw. III., m. 10. Nicolas, note C.]

§ Die Jouis, xxvto die Maij.

Galfr/V7us \ GalfrzVYo Chauchers, vni vallectorwm Came/-e "Regis, cui
Chauchers. / Domtnws Re^ xx in areas ann?<«s ad Scaccarmm ad totam
vitam suam percipiemlas, pro bono seniicio per ipsuia.
eidem Dowmo I&egi impenso, vel quous^?*e aliter pro statu suo fuerit
prouisum, per literBs suas patentee nuper concern^ : In denariis sibi
liberati^ in persolucionem x m&rcarum sibi libe?-andarM?^ de \\mtismodi
certo suo, videlicet, de tennino Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe
suum de liberate hoc termino ... ... ... vjli. xiijs. iiijd.

51.

1368, Oct. 31. — TJie half-yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer's
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 43 Edw. III., m. 8.]
§ Die Martis, xxxj. die Octobris.

GalfhWus\ GalfnWo Chaucer, vallecto Hospic// Regis, cui Dowmws
Chaucer. / Re.» xx marcas aimuax ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam
suam percipiendos, pro bono seruicio per ipsum eidem
Domino Regi impenso, per h'feras suas p&tentes nuper concern^ : In
denariis sibi liberal, in persolucionem x marcarum sibi \iberandarum
de \iu\usmodi certo suo, videlicet, de termino Sancti Michaelis
proximo preiexito per bre?^e, simw de liberate, inter manda^a de hoc
termino ... ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

1 Omitted.

162 A.D. 1368. PHILIPPA c.'s Annuity. Edw. III.'s Household.

52.

1368, Nov. 22. — The yearly payment of Philippa Cliaucer'' s annuity.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 43 Edw. III., m. 18. Nicolas, note DD.]

§ Die Mercun}', xxij° die Nouembm.

TldilippB, \ "Philippe Chaucer,1 cui Dominus, Re# x m&rcas annwas
Chaucer. / ad Scaccarium ad totain vitam suam percipiendas, pro
bono seruicio pe?* ipsam Philippe, Re^'ne Angfo'e, impenso,
per h'feras suas p&ientes nuper coucessit : In denam's sibi liberal's, in
persolucionem v marcarum sibi \i\>erandarum de }\uiusmodi certo suo,
videlicet, de termwo Sancti Michae/is proximo preterito, per brez/e
de magno sigiVZo, inter mandata de hoc termino . . . Ixvj s. viij d.

53.

[1368, Dec.]— Schedule of names of the Household of Edward 777.,
for whom Holes for Christmas were to be provided, including
Philippa Chaucer among the tl Damoiselles," and Geoffrey
Cliaucer among the Esquires.12

[Exchequer Q. R. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, -TV-]«
§ Soit garant fait au Clerc de la grande Garderobe, qil face
liuere des robes contre la No well', solonc la tem^re de ceste roulle.

§ Cest le Roulle des Seignwrs et autres gentz del Hostell', qi sount
ordenez destre as robes du Roi uosseignur contre la No well' pro-
cheine auenir ; et puist estre qascuns gentz autres qwe ne sount ici
escritz soleint prendre robes deuant ces houres, quelles gentz ne sount
mye escritz en ceste roulle par cause qils ne sount mye de la tynelle3
del Hostell', ne garantez par lestatut* du dit Hostell'.
f § Le Roi
[ § Ma dame la Roigne

-f . r§ La Contesse de Bedeford'

§ Le Due de Lancastre

§ La Coutesse de la Marche

§ Le Conte de Cantebrigge . § La damoiselle de Bretaigne

/ § Mons. Thomas de Wodestok<? . i § La Contesse de Atheles
§ Le Conte de Penbroke -f § La dame de Ferrers

§ Le Conte de la Marche xij [§ Dame Luce atte Wode vj

1 The duplicate roll has " Chauncer."

2 This roll, consisting of two membranes, is imperfect and undated. The
date is between 1365, when the King's daughter became Countess of Bedford,
and Oct. 1368, when the Duke of Clarence died. The cancellation of the
hitter's name appears to fix 1368 as the true date ; Sir Peter de Lacy was also
Keeper of the Privy Seal in that year. Though Sir Harris Nicolas seems to
allude to this Roll in connection with a notice of Philippa Chaucer, it is
curious that he says nothing about Chaucer's name appearing on the same
Roll ; it is possible he may have overlooked the entry. .Anyhow, he has no
doubt about the date, 1368. I notice this, as it was only after assigning this
document to 42 Edw. III., that I discovered the notice in Nicolas' Memoir,
which, however, gives no reference. — W. D. S.

3 Tinel, household, family. — Cotgrave.

4 The first name, that of ' Le Due de Clarence,' is struck out.

A.D. 1368. TJte Household of Edward the Third. 163

vnj.

§ Le Conte de Oxenford'

§ Le Sire de Percy

§ Le Sire de Latimere xij

•a

x>

§ Mons. Thomas de Beauchamp'^
§ Mons. Aleyn de Buxhull'
§ Mons. Piers de Breux
§ Mons. Richard Stury 2 J

§ Mons. Johan Foxle
§ Mons. Bernard' Brokas
. § Mons. Johan atte Wode
. j § Mons. Gilbert Spencer
§ Moiis. Richard la Souche
§ Mons. Esmon Euerard'
§ Mons. Johan Beurle |

§ Mons. William de Wyndesores |
§ Mons. Robert de Aston' .«

§ Mons. Johan de Eynsford'
§ Mons. Roger Elmrugge •£

§ Mons. Thomas Murreux
§ Mons. Johan de Ipre
§ Mons. Thomas Bradewell' \
§ Mons. Thomas Tireli' =

§ Richard de ArundelP ^

§ Johan de Arnndell'
xxij. § Mons. Robert Salle J

r§ Elizabeth Chaundos
§ Philippe de Lisle
§ Marie Seint Hiller
§ Mergarete de Ellerton'
§ "Philippe Chaucer
§ Jolumne de Louth'
§ Estenene Olney
§ Anneis Rose
§ Mergarete Rose
§ Cristien' Reymond'
§ Elizabeth Beauchamp'
§ Johanne de Kaule 3
.§ Elizabeth Morle

— xiij

r§ Marion Heruy 1

§ Aliceon de Cestre
§ Margerie Olney
§ Johanne de Hynton' j
§ Eleyne Monioye
§ Johtmne de Londres
| § Billion Quarret
§ Aliceon' de Preston'3
§ Johanne Cosyn3
§ Maude de Dene
§ Elizabeth Pershore3
L§ Philippe Picard'3

. + § Seneschal
ma dame/

Mons. Johan Delues

2
p

I

o

viij

§ Sire Piers de Lacy «

§ Sire Thomas de Bran tingham J
§ Sire Henn Snayth' 3

§ Sire Johan de Saxton' dean g
§ Sire Robe?*t de Whitbergh' '|
§ Sire Ric7?ar^ de Beuerle "S
§ Maistre Johan de Glaston* g
§ Maistre Adam Leche &

. f§ Sire Thomas Rous
. < § Sire Johan deHermesthorp'
1 . L§ Mestre Piers de Florence
. .r§ Sire Richard Raundes
I . § Sire Johan de Derby
'.« § Sire Wauter Almaly
| . § Sire Thomas Chynham
'. [§ SireRauf Notyngham4 vj

1 The parchment appears to have been cleaned, and the dots washed off.

2 Mons. Richard de Pembrugg' is struck out between this and the next
name.

3 See Patent Roll, 43 Edw. Ill, p. 2, m. 1, for the pensions granted to
these 'domicellfe' of Queen Philippa (Rymer, vol. iii., part ii, page 886).

4 The last name, ' Sire Thomas Rouse,' is struck out.

164

A.D. 1368. The Household of Edward the Third.

to*

3

PQ"

03 '
N •

'

§ Sire William de Dighton'
§ Sire William de Tiryngton'
§ Sire Johan Aleyn
§ Sire Robert de Walton'
§ Sire William de Huntelowe
§ Sire Richard Bokelly
§ Sire Richard Medford'
§ Sire Johan Kendale
§ Sire Richard Lanston'
§ Sire Thomas Bernelby
§ Sire William Humberstan,

Auener3
§ Sire William Humberstan,

Clerc de lespicerie ;

§ Thomas de Swaby
§ Johan Carp'
§ Johan Salesbury
§ Johan Stacy
§ William Irland'
. L§ Richard de Thorp'

§ Johan Mils, southclerc du

seal ma dame
§ Esmon Flambard'1
§ Roger Belet
§ Robert Louth'
§ Johan Beleuall'
§ Wauter Tyrell'
§ Piers de Preston'
§ Roger Arch' 2
§ Guy de Fowe
§ Johan Olneye
§ Richard de Stanes
§ Andreu Tyndale
§ Johan atte Wich', charetter
§ Mestre Will. Geryn } petit/
§ Mestre John IrlandeJ se'iantz
§ Hanyn Quarret
§ Maistre Johan Gateneys
§ Johan Pauele xvij

xxi

r§ Sire "Richard Postell'
§ Sire William Rede-

( south-
( clercs

2 § .]§ Thomas Madyngle

3 »§ . I § Ridiard de la Chapelle

'§ Johan de Herlyng'
§ Wauter Whithors
§ Thomas Cheyne4
§ Johan de Beuerle
§ Johan de Romesey
§ Wauter Walssh'
§ Hugh' Wake
§ Roger Clebury
I § Piers de Cornewaill'

i-s

r§ Johan atte Halle
§ Johan Pays
§ "Ricfiard Hunter
( § Johan Fissher
! § Esteuene Hadle
I § "William Cosyn
| § Hanyn Mount
§ Johan Stanlowe
§ Johan Warde
l§ Johan Burton'

1 The first name in this division,

2 Archer, in full, in other places.

Reignald de Cobh#m,5 is struck out.

The King's officer to provide oats.
4 In a writ dated 7 March, 43 Edw. III. [1369], he is described as •' nad-
gares vn de noz esquiers,' and receives 'deux draps de baldekyns de Luk,
doubles, pur nostre offrendre.' — [Wardrobe Accounts, ^.]

A.D. 13G8. OH AUCER, one of Edward III! 's Enquires of Household. 165

:

§ Robert de Ferers ^

§ Elmyn Leget

§ Robert de Corby £

§ Collard Dabrichecoz^rt1 ®

§ Thomas Hauteyn ^

§ Hugh' Cheyne jg

§ Thomas Foxle £

§ Geffrey Chaucer

§ Geffrey Stucle ^

§ Simond' de Burgh'

§ Johan Tichemerssh'

§ Robert la Souche

§ Esmon Rose d

§ Laurence Hauberk' S

§ Griffith de la Chambre g

§ Johan de Thorp' |

§ Raulyn Erchedeakne

§ Rauf de Knyueton'

§ Thomas Hertf ordyngbury00'

§ Hugh' Strelley

§ Hugh' Lyngeyn

§ Nicholas Prage

§ Richard Torperle

§ Richard Wirle

§ Johan Northrugge

§ Hanyn Narret2

§ Simond' de Bokenham

§ Johan Legge

r§ Johan Wyght
§ William Prest
§ Thomas Merlyn
§ Richard Pope
§ Johan Doure
§ Geffrey Pikard
§ Johan Kembald
§ Thomas Bansted'
§ Johan Frende

.§ William Radescroft

'§ Johan Wyndesore
§ Johan Bedeford'
§ Thomas de Hynton'
§ Adam Granthani
§ Johan Kirkeby
§ Laurence Lok'
Johan Troll1

xxxv.

§ Johan Ellerton'
§ Johan Haddon'
§ Robert Appelby
§ Richard BoseuylF
§ Thomas Staple
§ Wate?' Leycestr'
§ Thomas Dautre
§ Richard Imwortli'
§ Andrew Gildeford'
L§ Thomas Staff'

1 Index to Husting Rolls, Deeds and Wills (xlix°, 3 back, col. 1), Monday
after the feast of St. Edward the King a° xlix [Edvv. III.] :— Carta Domini
liegis Edwardi Angl/<? fact^ Collardo Daubrichecourte, armig<?ro. — F. J. F.

2 Between this name and the next, three others are struck out : namely,
Gilbert Talbot, Jolmn Beauchamp', George Felbrigg'.

1G6

A.D. 1368. The Household of Edward the Third.

I

+
xvij.

i

03

o
•^5
S3

ll

c
o
o

I

f§ Estephett Romlowe1
I § Johan Padbury
§ Thomas Mussenden'
§ Thomas Forser
§ Roger Cheyne
§ William Cheine
§ Nicholas Carrue
§ William de Clopton'
§ Wauter de Chuppenam
§ Jan y n de Sterny
§ Aleyn Serle
§ Waryn' Keynes
§ Johan Salman
§ Benet Zakarie
§ Piers de Bruges2
§ Johan fitz Eustace
§ William Nerue

r§ Thomas Frowyk'
§ William Strete
§ Thomas de Stanes
§ Walter de Wygfit'
§ Esmond de Tettesworth'
§ Joharc Goderyk'
§ Johara Gosden'
§ Johara Gonyngesby
§ William Archebaud'
§ William de Rysceby
§ Roberto de Erhuth'
§ Johara atte Welle
§ Thomas Spigwrnell'
§ Roger Ferrowy
§ Johan de Pury
§ Thomas Prest
§ Willtam Blacomore
§ ~Ric?iard Leche
§ Richard des Armes
§ Thomas Brouderer

[Membrane 2.]

'§ Wauter de Norton'

§ Thomas Mym??ies

§ Richard Pyppewell'

§ Johow Gull1

§ Roger Hygham

§ Johaw Guldeford'

§ Joharcde Hyllyngdon1 1 ^ ^ *

§ Wilh'am Challowe I5||

§ Richard Ingham

§ Thomas Burbach' J E^ I

§ Roger Horneby

§ Johan [hole in the parchment here]

§ Robert [PJentecost1
§ Joha?i Holyngbow?*ne
§ Roger Hunter
§ Ricliard Okebo?<rne
§ William Person'
§ William Morwell'

,r§ Esmond de Cheshunt
I § Casin' Fauconere
I § Papard' Myners
I § Trystram de Leghes
§ Colmet Fauconer
§ Robert le March'
§ Henry Fauconer
§ Wauter Sifrewast
liomylorvc in -|5.

I
I

§ Johaw Ablyngdon'

§ William Yonge

§ WilKaw Solingrugg'

§ Robert Foulere

§ Nicholas Bythewod'

§ Ricliard Hertford'

§ William Fox

§ Johan Bradewell'

§ Richard Serle

§ Simond Chese

.§ RicJiard Halford' xxix.

The next name, Robert de Morton', is struck out.

A.D. 1368. The Household of Edward the Third.

167

. r§ Vaillant
Heraudz . < § Hauevyge

. L§ Wyndesores

. f§ Richard Markham, WafiV
Mvuistralx'l§ Johan de Buky

-L»J. V LllblflttlA. S ,> XT* 1 7 Ml

. I § JNicho/as Irumpow
. ' § Johan Deuenys

. r§ Wauter Waye
jc n -f • I § Wilhawi Lamport'
§ GiUtz. § Johan Wayte

. [§ Hugh Joie

r§ Thom«s Loueden'
1 § William Heruy
§ Henri Almayn
§ William Gambon'
§ Kauf de Tyle
§ Rauf Chamberleyn'
§ Wauter Aubrey
§ Johrtn Stygeyn'
§ Roger Barbowr
§ Typot'

§ Reynalt Neuport'
§ Esmon Danu^rs
§ Esmon Bernard'

Valletz de
la Chambre
du Roi

xnj.

§ Aleyn' Vnderwod*

§ Joha?^ Duyk

§ Johcm de Longeuyll'

§ Aleyn Palmer

§ William Brantyngham

§ William Sayour

§ Johaw de Assh'

§ Miles de Buxton'

§ Johan Pusey

Yalletz des . j § Joho?i Bergeueyn'
§ Thomas Mitton'
§ Johan Chyppes
§ Johan Porchestre1
§ Joharc Watteford'
§ William de Euesham
§ William de Bukenam
§ Ilichard Raundes
§ Thomas de Comberton'
§ Jol^w de York'
§ William Merk1
The next name, Esmond Bernard, is struck out here ; it occurs above.

168

A,D. 1369. The Household of Edward the Third.

§ William de Brompton'

§ William fitz Johan

§ Thomas Vppyngham

§ Richard de Wengham

§ Richard Scargill'

§ Richard Sampson'

§ Adam Scalder

§ Thorns Knyghte

§ Job cm Wedon'

§ Gilbert Sauserrie1

§ William Mann'

§ Henre atte Watere

§ Richard Ballard'

§ Robert Cheyne

§ Richard Lancastre

§ Johan Aspull'

Valletz des . § Robert Makkeney
offices . § Richard Aleyn'

§ William Hungerford'

§ "William Denbenhain [sic]

§ Johan Person'

§ Joha^ Fyge

§ William Mordon'

§ Roger Fenxwr pur les palefroys et character pwr le Roi

§ Rauf Ferrowr pur les chiuaux demurantz derer le Roi

§ Richard Peyncombe

§ Robert Sadeler

§ Johan Northf oik'

§ Rauf de Brune

§ Will/am Depyng

§ Johaw Faucone*1

§ Johaw Byte^'le

§ Henri Cramford'

§ Richard Brustelesham, Ferro?*r p?^r les grai^ntz chiualx

§ Richard Broun, Ferrowr pwr les chiuax dever^ le meesne

§ Geffre?/ Amondesham, ferrowr pur les chiuax ma dame

§ Symond Ferrowr

§ Johaw West

§ Joha^ Kyngeston'

§ Roger Smale

§ Robert Kirklyngton'

§ William Perand'

§ Yenan'2

§ WUltam Sendale

§ Clement de Merk1

1 De la Sausirie, in Originalia, 49 Ed\v. III., ro. 45.

2 Yenan del Chambre in aF,

Ivij.

Garceorcs de
la Chambre
ZeRoi

vnj.

A.D. 1368. Edw. IIL's Household. 1369. NICHOLAS c.'s Will 169

11 du Roi
.a dame

§ "RicJiard Greydon'

§ Johaw Bradewater

§ Johan Holde

§ Johan Thorbern'

§ Johcm Parker

§ William Soule

§ Richard Camsale

§ Johcm Hernest

§ Johan Melbourne

§ Johan Roteland'

§ Robert Broune

§ Johan Pevven'

§ William Okeangre

§ Johan Haubergh' xv

Endorsed — A Sire Piers de Lacy ) f Le Seneschal et le

Gardein du prwe Seal f Par | Tresorer del Hostell'.

54.

1369, Jan. 13. — Will of Nicholas Chaucer, probably a relative of
John Chaucer.12

[Husting Roll, 97, No. 6.]

Will of Nicholas Chaucer, citizen and pepperer. He d.esires to
be buried in the church of St. Antonin, near the font, in the body of
the same church. He leaves bequests to the fabric of the said
church, to " the parish chaplain " and to other chaplains for masses,
and also to the "magistral clerk" and "the under-clerk " of the
church ;• his term in houses and tenements to Sir William Dalton,
and to Matilda, his (testator's) wife ; and money to Isabella, his
sister, and to Margaret, his kinswoman. Dated at London, 13 January,
1368[-9]. Proved by Matilda, the widow.

55.

1369, March 10.— Writ of Privy Seal to Henry de Snayth, Keeper
of the Great Wardrobe, to deliver certain quantities of cloth and
furs to the " Damoiselles " in the Queens Service, including
Philippa Chaucer, for Christinas last past.B

1 Solace and Hans are the ' Henst-men ' in 43 Edw. III.

2 In the Wardrobe Accounts, 22 Edw. III., 391/7, there are three payments
to him for cotton, canvas, and wax, bought of him at London. On 8 June,
1356, he was summoned, among 170 merchants of England, to attend before
the King and Council, for the purpose of consulting on " certain arduous affairs."
Andrew Aubrey, John de Stodeye, and Edmund de Staplegate of Canterbury
were among the number. — Close Roll, 30 Edw. III., m. 14, dorse.

3 One membrane, being the thirty-fifth on a file of similar writs. This
LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 12

170 A.D. 1369. Grant of Cloth and Furs to PHILIPPA CHAUCER.

[Exchequer Q. R. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, af-.]

Edward, par la grace de Dieu Hoi Dengleterre, Seigimr Dirlande et
Daquitaigne, A nostre ame Clerc Henri de Snayth', Gardein de nosfre
grande Garderobe, saluz. Nous vous mandons qwe a nostre bien
amee Luce atte Wode, vne des Dames, et a noz bien amees Elizabeth'
Ch an nd os, Philippe de Lysle, Marie Seint Hiller, Margarete de
Ellerton', "Philippe Chaucer, Johane de Louthe, Estiephnette
Olney, Agneis Eose, Margarete Eose, Oistiane Eeymond', Eliza
beth' Beauchamp', Johane de Kauele et Elizabeth' Morlee, Damoi-
selles, Marie Heruy, Alice de Cestre, Marie Olney et Johane de
Hynton', Souzdaraoiselles, et Johane de Londres, Billion' Quarret,
Alice de Preston', Johane Cosyn, Maude de Den', Elizabeth Per-
shore, Philippe Pykard' et Elene Proudefot', Veilleresses, de la
Chambre no^re treschere compaigne la Eoine, facez liuerer drap'
pur leur robes, ouesqwe les furrures pur la feste de Noel darein
passee, par manere come leur ad este liuerez pur la feste de Noel
auant ces heures. Et volons que par cestes vous eneiez due allouance
en vostiQ aconte. Done souz no#£re priue seal, a Westmm&tfer, le .x.
iour de Marz, Ian de nostte regne quarante tierz.

The next document on the file gives further particulars respecting
the robes mentioned in the preceding writ : —

Dame Luce et chescune damoiselle a swcote ouerte xiiij allies de
drap', j fumre menenoir dj' pur de iiij tymbres, j furore et dj' de
bys, et j chaperon de xxxij.

Item chescune souze damoiselle x alnes de drap',j furore et dj'debys.

Item a chescun veillersce x alnes de drap', j furore et dj' de popl'.

56.

1369, April 26. — The half-yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer's
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 43 Edw. III., m. 5.]

§ Die Jouis, xxvjto die Aprih's.

[GalfhWus \ Galfr^o Chaucer, cui Domiuus ~Rex xx marcas annuas

Chaucer.] JJ ad Scaccarmm percipiend«s, pro bono seruicio per

ipsum eidem Domino Her/i impenso, per 1/feras suas

jxikentes nuper concessit : In denariis sibi liberal's, in persolucionem

x marcarum sibi liberand#?*zm de \i\i\usmodi certo suo, videKcet, de

terniino Pasche proximo preterite, per brez^e aimm de liberate, inter

wsmdata de hoc termmo ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

document is noticed by Nicolas in Note EE. of his ' Memoir of Chaucer.' The
names which appear in this writ correspond with those given in No. 53,
excepting that Eleyne Monioye, who heads the list of " VeiHeresses " in 1368,
has now disappeared, and E. Proudefott appears in the present list to make up
their number. I notice this as a further proof of the date of No. 53. —
W. D. S. x Torn off.

1369. CHAUCER, as Esquire, has 20s. for Summer Robes. 171
57.

1369, June 27. — Counter-roll of the Comptroller of the King* s House
hold, furnishing, among other matters, the names of the members
of the Household who received money for their Summer Robes.
Chaucer is among the " scutiferi."1

[Exchequer Q. R. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, \9T8-.]
Contrarotulus Johannls de Ipre, Contrarokulatoris Hospicij Regw,
videlicet) a xiij° die February &nno xliij0 vsqiie xxvijm diem
Jun?7 eodeni anno ; Thoma de Brantyngham Custode Gardero&e
Hospicij Reg/s ibidem tune existente.

Hunc libru??i, continents xxviij folia, liberauit hie Johannes de Ipre,
Contrarotulator Garderobe Regis, xxvij0 die Aprih's, anno xliiij*0 Reg/s
J&dtoardi tercij post conquestuw, per manus suas proprias.

[f. 16 d.] FEOD^ MILITUM ET ROBE ESTIUALES.

Willelmo de Latymere, Baneretto, Senescallo Hospic// Re#is, pro
feodo suo pro seisona Pasche contingent infra tempus huius compofo',
vj li. xiij s. iiij d. Eidem pro Robe's suis estiualibus pro festo Pente-

costetf contingente infra idem tempus, Cvj s. viij d

Petro de Lacy, Custody Priuat^ Sigill/

Rer/is, Johanni de Glaston', Phisico

Re^is, Ade Leche, Cirurgico Re^is, cuil-ibet eomm Iiij s. iiij d. , pro

rob/*- suis estiualibus

Ricarcfo de Medford', Johanni de Kendale . •

. . . Capelkmis et Clericis capelle Rer/is, cuilibet eomm xx s. , pro

robis suis estmalibm Johanni Herlyng',

Johanni de Beuerle, Johanni de Romesey, Waltero Walssh', Hugoni
Wake, Rogero Clobury, Petro de Cornub/^, Robe/'to Ferrers,
Elmyngo Leget, Robe/'to de Corby, Collard Dabrichecourt, Thome
Hauteyn, Hugoni Cheyne, Thome Foxle, GalfhWo Chaucer,
Galfrido Steucle, Simoni de Burgh', Ednm^do Rose, Lauren c^o
Hauberk, Griffith' de Camera, Thome Forcer, Johanni de Thorp',
Rad?«/pAo Ercedeakne, Jfadulpho de Kyneton', Thome de Hert-
fordyngbury, Hugoni Strelley, Hugoni Lingeyn, NichoZao Prage,
Ricrtr<io Torperle, Ricarcfo Wirle, Johanni NortRrugge, Hanno
Narret, Simoni de Bukenham, Johanni Legg', Wille/mo Strete,
Thome de Stanes, "Waltero Wyght, Edm?*?^o de Tettesworth',
Johanni Goderik', Johanni Gosedene, Johanni de Conyngesby,
Willelmo Archebald', Willelmo de Risceby, Robe?-to Erhith', Johanni
atte Welle, Thome Spigwrnell', Rogero Bouyndon', Johanni Pury,
Thome Prest', Willelmo Blacomore, ~Ricardo des Amies, Roberto

1 This book was delivered into the Exchequer by John de Ipre on the
27th of April 1370. It now consists of 25 leaves bound in parchment. The
first part of it comprehends the ' Recepta ForinsecaJ together with the
daily expenses in the Household ; the latter portion contains the ' Elemosina,'
' NecewarlaJ 'Dona,' 'Robe,' ' Prettifa,' ' Jocalia,' etc. — W. D. S.

172 A.D. 1369. Grant of black doth to PHILIPPA CHAUCER.

Maghfeld', Roberto Makeney, Wdlelmo Man et Ulcardo "Waffrer,
scutiferw et sermentibiis Hospic//, cuilibeb QOiani xx s., pro rob/s suis
ustiualibus, Iv li

58.

1369, Sept. 1. — Writ of Privy Seal to Henry de Snayth, Clerk,
Keeper of the Wardrobe, directing him to issue divers lengths of
black cloth to the members of the King's Household, for their
Mourning at the funeral of Queen Philippa. Philip pa Chaucer
receives 6 ells of black cloth, long, and Geoffrey Chaucer 3 ells of
the same, short.

[Exchequer Q. R. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, if*.]1
Edward, par la grace de Dieu, Roi Deugleterre et de France, et
Seignowr Dirlande, A nostre arne Clerc Henri de Snayth', Gardein de
^ostre grande Garderobe, saluz. Nous vous mandons que, a les
persones desouz nomez, facez faire luierees de drap' noir et furures
pur vesture de doel a cause de la mort nostre treschere eompaigne la
Roine, qi Dieux assoille, centre lenterrement du corps uostre dite
compaigne, en la manure desouz escrite, cestassauoir : A noz filz les
Due de Lancastre et Conte de la Marche, le Conte de Oxenford',
nostve fille la Contesse de la Marche, la Contesse Dathels, la damoi-
selle de Bretaigne, les deux filles a nostro dit filz le Due, et la tille de
la Couteose de Bedeford', nostre fille, cestassauoir, a 2chescun de eux,
forspris la dite damoiselle2 de Bretaigne, dousze aunes de drap' de
colour iit)ir long' fin, et a la dite damoiselle de Bretaigne tresze aunes
do autiel drap.3 A dame Elizabeth' Holand', soere nr^re dite com
paigne, dousze aunes de drap' de colour noir long, vne furure de
Lisse, deux furures de meneuoir grosse, et deux chaperons4 de
meneuoir purez, chescun chaperon de trente et deux ventres.5 A
les dames de Ferrers et de Mohun, cestassauoir, a chescun de eles,
dousze aunes de drap' de colour noir long', deux furures chescune
de troys Centz ventres de meneuoir pure, et deux chaperons, chescun
de cynqtttftite ventres de meneuoir pure. A dame Philippe la Souche,
noef aunes de drap' de colour noir long' et vne furure de quatre tym-
bres de meneuoir grosse. A dame Luce atte Wode et dame Margarete
Seyucler, cestassauoir, a chescune de eles, oyt' aunes de drap' de
colour noir long'. A Amyce de Beuerle, Katerine SpigwrneH',
Aliceou Ferrers, Pheli'ppe de Lysle, Estiephne Olney, Elizabeth'
Cliandos, Marie Seinthillere, Margarete de Ellcrton', "PheUppe
Chaucere, Johane de Louth', Agneys Rose, Margarete6 Rose,
Cristien Reymond', Elizabeth' Beauchamp', Elizabeth' Morle et Johane
de Kaule;7 A Agneys Fauconer, Eleyne Gerberge et Blanche8

1 One large membrane, the last of a file of similar writs.

2~2 Over an erasure. 3 Can she have been very tall or stout?

4 Hoods. 6 ? puffs. 6 Was this Chaucer's Margarete, I wonder? — F. J. F.

7 or Kanle. 8 Katherine Swynford's sister?

1369. Grant of Mack cloth to Edw. IIL's Household. 173

Swynford', damoiselles a les dites deux filles de Lancastre ; A Jo-
hane Fostebury, Cristiane filz Eustace et Katrine Careu, damoiselles
la dite n'lle de Bedeford', Johane Sywmaigne, Marie Heruy, Aliceon
de Cestre, Margerie Olney et Johane de Hynton', cestas-auoir, a
chescune de eles sys annes de drap noir long'. A Eleyne Monioyo,
Johane de Londres, Billion Quaret', Aliceon de Preston', Johane Cosyn,
Maude de Dene, Elizabeth* Pershore et Philippe Pykard', a Elizabeth'
Hereford' et Aliceon Tyndeslowe, souzdamoiselles a les dites deux
filles de Lancastre, a Elizabeth' Breton', damoiselle a la dite soere
nostre dite compaigne, a Margarete la damoiselle la dite dame de
Ferrers, a la Norice et a la Berceresse la fille de la dite Contesse de
Bedeford', cestassauoir, pur chescune de eles sys aunes de drap' noir
court'.

A William Sire de Latymer et Henri Sire de Percy, . . a
chescun de eux noef aunes de drap' de colour noir long'. A Thomas
de Beau champ [30 in all, to] Thomas Tanne, Chiualers . . a chescun
de eux sys aunes de drap' de colour noir long'. A Thomas de
Brantyngham, Clerc, dousze aunes de drap de colour noir long'.
A Henri Wakefeld', Clerc, noef aunes de meisme le drap'. A Piers
de Lacy et Henri de Snayth',1 Clercs, cestassauoir, pur chescun de
eux sept aunes de meisme le drap'. A Richard de Rauenesere
[13 in all, to] William de Gunthorp', Clercs . . a chescun de eux sys
aunes de drap' de colour noir long'. A William de Dighton' [46 in
all, including a Johan Massyngham, to] William, persone de leglise
de soint Benet' de Londres, Clercs . . a chescun de eux iroys aunes
de drap' de colour noir court'. A Johan Herlyng', Wauter Whithors,
Johan de Beuerle, Johan Romeseye, Wauter Walsh', Roger Clebury,
Helmyng' Le?et', Rauf de Knyueton', Richard Torperle, Johan
North rusg', Hanyn Garret', Symond de Bokenham, Johan Legg',
Johnn Ellerton', Johan Haddon', Robert Appulby, Richard Boseuill',
Thomas Staples, Wauter de Leycestre, Thomas Dautre, Richard
Imworth', Andreu de Guldeford', Thomas de Stafford', Thomas de
Frowyk', William Slrote, Thomas Stanes, Wauter de Wight', Esmon.
de Tettesworth', Johan Goderyk', Johan Gosrlen', Andreu Tyndale,
Johan Conysby, William Archebaud', William Risceby leisne,
Robert de Erith', Johan atte Welle, Thomas Spigwneir, Roger
Ferrour, Johan Pury, Thomas Preest, William Blacomore, Richard
Leche, Richard des Armes, Thomas Brouderer, Esmon Flambard',
Roger Belet', Robert Louth', Johan Olney, Johan Irlande, Johan
Gateneys, William Maan, Robert Makeney, Thomas Thorneton',
Estiephne Smyth', William Geryn' et Reynold Barbour, a Yaillant,
Haue?ych pt Wyndesore Heraudes, a Robert Larderer, Johan
Sponley, William Herland' et Patryk' 2Byker, Esquiers de greindre
estat, cestassauoir, a chescun2 de eux troys aunes de drap' de colour
noir court'. A Hugh' Wake, Piers de CornewailF, Robert Ferrers,

1 The Keeper of the Wardrobe. 2— 2 Over an erasure.

174 A.D. 1369. Grant of black doth to GEFFREY CHAUCER,

Robert Corby, Collard Daubrichecourt, Thomas Hauteyn, Hugh'
Cheyne, Thomas Foxle, Geffrey Chaucer, Geffrey Styuecle, Symon
de Burgh', Johan de Tychemerssh', Robert la Zouche, Esmou
Rose, Laurence Hauberk', Griffith' del Chambre, Johan de Thorpe,
Thomas Hertfordyngbury, Hugh' Straule, Hugh' Lyngeyn', Nicholas
Prage, Richard Wirle, Estiephne Romylowe, Thomas Forcer, Roger
Cheyne, William Cheyne, Nicholas Careu, William de Clopton',
Wauter de Chipenham, Johan Desterny, Waryn Keynes, Johan
Salman, Piers de Brugges, Johan Beluale, Wauter Tyrell', Piers de
Preston', Roger Arch', Richard de Stanes, James Dicheford', Johan
atte Wyche, Hanyn Quarret, Johan Pauele, George Felbrigge, Johan
Cat', William Burele, Richard Bitterle, Henri CornewaiU', Giles
Pagharn, Johau Louet, William Pursell', Sampson Battesfo d', Esmon
de Chesthunt, Casyn Fauconer, Popard Mayners, Tristrem de Lightes,
Colinet Fauconer, Robert del Marche, Henri Fauconer, Wauter
Sif re wastes, Gilbert Talbot, Aleyn Palmer, Johan Leche, Robert
Vynowr, Henri Yeuele, Johan Padbury, William Risceby le puisne,
Robert Hertle, Raulyn Waytes, William Wyndeford', Johan de
Misterton', Simon atte Hagh', Piers atte Wode, Johan Beauchamp',
Robert Vrsewyk', Richard Forster, Roger Ragaz, William Bardolf,
Robert Bardolf, Roger Mareschall', Johan Joce, William Archebaud,
Godefrey del Rokell', Johan Cokfeld', Robe?'t de Morton', Nicholas
Husee, Florkyn Fauconer, Henri Mammesfeld', et Thomas Glasele,
Esquiers de meindre degree, cestassauoir, a chescun de eux troys
aunes de drap' de colour noir court'.

The next set, from Thomas Loueden' to Hugh Forester [50 in all],
" Valletz de no*'#re Chambre," get the same quantity ; so do the next
set, from Aleyn Vndervvode to Reynald Ingham [109 in all, including
a Robert Champaigne], " Yalletz de office " ; so do the next set, from
Hugh Herland and Johan de Massyngham, " Valletz de mistere,"1 and
4 "Gaitz," to Robert Kirkeby, the last of 7 " Clercs Valletz"; and
likewise the other members of the Household, viz. 4 " Lauenders " ;
18 "Ministralx" and "troys autres noz ioefnes Ministralx"; 102
" Garceons doffice " ; 7 " Valletz Malers " ; 6 " Valletz del Mareschal-
cie"; 10 servants; 4 " Sergeantz del eglise de Westrnouster," also
2 "Garceons de meisme leglise"; 4 "Sergeantz del eglise de Seint
Poul " ; 25 " Charetters," and 25 " Garceons des Charetters." Then,
" a cynqwtmte poures fe?mnes esteantes entour le corps nos/re dite
compaigne a Wyndesore, . . pur chescune de eux, quatre aunes de drap'
de colour noir court' ; a dousze poures howm.es a tenir torches entour
le corps meisme nosfre compaigne illoeqes . . pur chescun de eux
troys aunes de drap' de colour noir court' ; a Wauter Norman et
quarante et vn ses compagnons, noz Bargemen . . pur chescun de
eux quatre aunes de drap' de colour noir de vne aune en laeure " ; to

1 Missyngham and Herland are described as "Carpenters" in the writ for
their robes on 27 Jan. 13G9, in which they are said to be " de la suite des
valletz de mestere de nostre houstel." [Wardrobe Accounts, -|-.]

1369. Payments of GEOFFREY and PHILIPPA c.'s Annuities. 175

the next set of 124 "Gardeins des chiuaux" . . " pur chescun de
eux quatre aunes de drap' de colour noir strott', de vne aune eu laeure,
et a Johan de Sutton', clerc a Danz Esmon, Moigne de Bury, trois
auues de drap' de colour [noir] court'. Et volons que par cestes vous
eneyez due allouance en vostre aconte. Done souz nostre priue seal, a
Westmottstw, le primer iour de Septembre, Ian de nostre regne
Dangleterre quarante tierz et de France trentisme."

59.

1369, Oct. 8. — The half -yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer's annuity.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 44 Edvv. III., m. 2.]

§ Die Lime, viij° die Octobm.

GalffoWus ) GalfnWo Chaucer, cui Domimts Rex xx marccis amiuas
Chaucer. J ad Scacc«rmm ad totam vitam suam percipiendos, pro
bono seruicio per ip*%^m eidem Domino JHeyi impenso,
per h'/eras h'feras [we] suas p&tentes nuper eonoemft : In denariis sibi
liberal, in persoJucionem x marcarum sibi liberandarum de
}}innsmodi certo suo, videlicet, de termiuo Sa/ictfi MichaeZis proximo
preterito, per bre^e smim de liberate, inter mandate de hoc termi/^o

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.1

60.

1369, Nov. 7. — Patjmsnt of Philippa Chaucer's annuity for the terms
of Easter and Michaelmas? to John de Hermesthot'p.
[Issue Boll, Mich., 44 Edw. III., m. 12.]
§ Die Mercun)', vij. die Nouembris.

"Philip})* } fhilippe Chaucer, cui Domiiius Re^ x mamas aunuas ad
Chaucer, j Scaecarium ad totam vitam sua percipiendtM, [pro \yono
servicio]3 per ipsam eidem Domino llegi impenso, per
liVeras suas patentee nuper concessit : In. denartw sibi liberatis per
maims Joliannis tie Hermesthorp',4in persolucionem x marcarum silji
libera/«<^«/"MWi de huiusmodi certo suo, vide^'ce^, de termwo [sic]
Pasche et Michc/eZis proximo preterite, per brewe suu??i de liberate,
inter mandate de hoc termrwo vj li. xiij s. iiij d.1

61.

13(39. — Extract from the enrolled Account of Henry de Waltefeld,
Keeper of the Wardrobe of the King's Household ; containing
the advances of money made — at the commencement of the war
in France — to certain members of the Household, including

1 These two entries are translated in Devon's Issue Rolls of 44 Ed\v. III.,
in which he places Easter term before Michaelmas, by mistake ; see note, p.
160 ante. Hence Prof. Skeat was led to assign these entries to 1370, instead
of 1369 ; but Nicolas correctly adopted the latter date.

2 It is noticeable that up to this time Philippa took her annuity in one
yearly payment, while her husband took his in two instalments. After this,
there are no more payments of her annuity till 6 July, 1374, and then Geoffrey
received for her only 2^ years' arrears. 3 Omitted. 4 See p. 160.

176 A. D. 1369. Advance of £10 to CHA.UCER /or War-expenses.

Chaucer, on account of their wages and expenses at various times
in the year 43 Edw. III.

[Exchequer L. T. R. Enrolled Accounts, Wardrobe, Roll 4, m. 21.]
Compotus Henr/ci de Wakefeld', Custody's Garderofo Hospicij
Regw, de leceptis, liber&cionibus, et expens/s in eadem Garderofra
factis, necnon de vadws guerre solutw Johanni, Duel Lancastn'e,
dmersis Comitibtw, Banerettis, Militib^s, Seutiferis, et aliis diuerais
hominibus anno xliij0 equitantib?^ de guerra in partibus Franc/e ; a
xxvij0 die Jum/ anno xliij0 .... vsque xxvijm diem Jum; anno
xlvto .... scilicet, de duobtts anm's integm. . . .

[Mem. 21 d.]

Liberacio denAtiorum diuerais homiuibits subscript** de familia
"Regis de prestito, in denam* per ipsos leceptis in prmcipio guerre
super vadm1 et expenm suis per diueraa* vices a??,/zo xliij0, videlicet :
Hemv'co de Wakefeld', Custodi Gardero^e Hospic?];' ~Regis, Cxxli.
Et lespondet in l&otulo xlvjto in Ite??i JXorthampioJi'.

XX

Johanni de Ipre, Contrarotulo^on eius Jew Hosp/c//, iiij vj li. viij s.

iiij d. Et respondet in Rotulo xlvjto in Lancearfr/a.
.r. Johanni de Saxton', xx li. Et icspondet in 'Rotulo xlv. in E,estV?z<o

Notynghara.

A. de Leche, xiij li. vj s. viij d. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. London'.
. llicardo Medford', x li. ^

. Willehno de Humberstane, auenar/o, f Et- r. in R° xlvij0 in

xiij li. vj s. viij d. | Item London'.

. Thome de Bernolby, xiij li. vj s. viij d. J
.r. . Willeftttode Hu?ftberstane, clenco spec^'arie,! T-,, . -p0 , -to .

xiij li. vj s. viij d. 1MJJ' m f J

.r.. Thome de S \vaby, xli.

Johanni Carp', x li. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Item Ebor'.
. Ricarrfo de Thorp', x li. }

. Johanni de Sales bury, x li. vEt r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.
. Jo\\.anni de Iselham, xl s. )

.r. . Johantii Herling' debe^ xiij li. vj s. viij d. Set non debet inde
Bummonerij per bre^e Re^ aMocatum Willelmo Humberston',
clerico spet'/arie, in HotiUo xlvj*0 in Deuon/a. Et quietus est.
Johanni Romesey, xiij li. vj s. viij d. Et r. in R° xivjto in Ite?^

Somerset.

Waltero Walssh', xli. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. Cant'.
Hugoni Wake, xj li. xvj s. iij d. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Item

Northampton1.

. Rogero Clebury, x li. Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.
Roberto Ferers, x li. Et r. in Rotulo xlvj in Warr'.
Thome Hauteyn, x li. Et r. in Rotulo xlvj in Item Kancia.
. GalfnWo Chaucer, x li. | Et respondent in R° xlvij0 in Item
. GalimZo Styuecle, x li. ) London'. [See No. 72.]
Edmumlo Rose, xli. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Item Berk'.

1369. Advances to Edw. IIL's Household for War-costs. 177

r. in R° xlv. in Res. 'Notynyham.
„, . ^n , ..ft . T, T , ,
Et r" m R xlvi m Item Londou-

Hugoni Strelley, x li. E
Johanni Northru^g', x li. ^ „,
Simoni de Bokentam, xli.)E
Thome Forcer, x li. Efc r. in R° xlvj*0 in Adhnc Res. Wyltes'.
Thome de Stanes, x li. Et r. in R° xlvto in Res. Not'.
Ednrnratfo de Tettesworth', x li. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Item Kancia.
Johantii Goderyk', x li. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Item Norh't.
Joha/mi Gosden', xli. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. Surre/e.
Wi\]elmo Archebald', x li. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Item Snfaamptonia.
WilWwo de Rysceby, seniori. xiij li. vj s. viij d. Et r. in R°

xlvj in Adhuc Res. Bed'.

Roberto Erhyth', x li. Et r. in R° xlvj. in Item Kane'.
Johanni de Cokfeld', xli. Set TL< n debet inde summoneri, per

\>reue "Regis allocaf//ro Hicardo Medford' in R° xlvij in Item

London'. Et quietus est.

Johanni atte Welle, x li. Et r. in R° xlvj. in Item Berk'.
Rog^ro Bouyndon', ferrour, x li. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. Cant'.
Johanni Pury, xli. Et r. in R° xlvijto in Item London'.
Willelmo Blakemore, x li. Et r. in R° xlyjto in Salopza.
Et r. in R° xlvj. in Res. Surreie.

Ricardo Leche, xli.
. Ricardo de Armis .
. Rogero Archer .
. Roberto Makeney .
. Willelmo Man . .
Andrce de Tyndale.
. Jacobo de Dycheford' x li.

. Roberto Maghfeld' . x li.

. 3o\ian>ii Cat . . . x li.

, Johanwi Leche . . xli. j
, Guidoni de Rouclyf . . C s.
Joha?mi Wenlyngbourne . C s.

, Thome Tyny . . . . C s J

, Thome de Maddyngle . C s.

JohwiHi Wayte . . . C s.

, Thome Loueden' . . . C s.

WilleZ??io Horny . . . C s.

Henra'co de Almann' . . C s.

Wille^^o de Gambon' . C s.

R&dulpho Elienore . . C s.

Waltero Aubray . . . C s.

•lohanni Stygeyn . . . Cs.

Ro£#ro Fymmoys . . . vj li.

, Wille/mo Whaplop' . . C s.

Johanni Brave . . . xl s.

Johrtwwi Duyk' ' . . . C s.

Alano Palmer . . . . C s.
WilleZmo de Brantyngh«m C s.

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.

Et r. in R° xlvj. in Res. Surre/e.
Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.

[Mem. 22.]

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.

Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. London'.

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.

178 A.D. 1369. Advances to Edw. III.'s Household for War-costs.

Johanni de Assh' .

Miloni de Buxton*

Jolianni Pusy .

Thome de Myton' .

Johanni Porchestr'
. Joliaiuii de Watford'

Johanni Harwe

Willelmo Bukenham

Ricardo de E- mndes, valecto

Thome de Comber ton' . .
. Willelmo de Notyngham .

W 'illelmo de Brompton'

Willelmo fitz Johau .
de Weiigham

Et r. in R° xlvj*0 in Res. London'.
Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.
Et r. in 11° xlvj. in lies. London'.
Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.
Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. London'.

Cs.
Cs.
Cs.
Cs.
Cs.

i, [ Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.
O s. i

C s. Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. London'.
, C s. ) Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res.

C s. J London'.
Cx s. ) Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item
xx s. ( London'.
Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. London'.

Cs.

Cxiij s. iiij d.

Hicardo Sampson .
Ade Pursle . . .
Johaimi de Wedon'
Roberto de Certesey
Heim'co atte Wat re
fLicardo Ballard' .
Jolianni Asphull' .
Willelmo Pusy . .
llicanlo Aleyn . .
Willdmo de Hunge/'f ord' C s.
Willelmo Debenliiam . C s.
Johanui Fyge . . . C s.

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item

London'.
C s. Et r. in R° xlvj*0 in Res. London'.

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.

Cs.
Cs.
Cs. |
Cs. }

Cs.
Cs.
Cs.

Cs.

Et r. in R° xlvj*0 in Res. London'.

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Item London'.
Et r. in R° xlvj*0 in Res. London'.
Et r. in R° xlvj*0 in Item London'.

Et r. in R° xlvj*0 in Res. London'.
Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res. Surr'.

Willelmo Mordon' . Cs.]

Roge/'o Ferrour, valetto C s. VEt r. in R° xlvj*0 in Res. London'.

Rica/v?o Penycombe . C s. j

. •Jolianni de Northfolk', p«£ri . . Cs.} [Mem. 22, 2nd column]

Radw/^o Brunne C s.

. Johanni Fauconer C s.

. Jolianni Bytrele C s.

. Henn'co de Cramford' . . . . C s.

. Rica?v/o Brunne ...... C s.

o Ferrour C s.

Fode Cs.

Roberto Cheyne C s.

Thome de Irby . . . Ixvj s. viij d.

Thome Greiie xl s.

. Johanui West xl s.

. 3ohanni de Kyngeston'

xls.

. Rogero Smale xl s.

. Roberto de Kyrkelyngton' . . xl s.

. Willelmo Perant xl s.

de Wyght', Juniori . . xl s.

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Itewi
London'.

1369-70. Royal Household's War-costs. CHAUCER'S Annuity paid. 179

Johanni do Kent xl s.

Petro de Bourn' xxx s.

. . xxxs.
xlvj s. viij d.
. . xxx s.
xxxiij s. iiij d.
.. xxx s.
xxxs.
xxx s.

.. xxx s.
. xiij s. iiij d.
xliij s. iiij d.

e Thortou'

Rogero Chippes . .
Wiilelmo de Bayford'
Ricardo Frere . .
Gilberto de Aquar' .
Roberto Loue
Johanni Prentys . .
Johanni Fraunceys .
Regin«/(/o de Coquina
Johanni de Manchestr'

Johanni Downe Is.

WilleZwio de Berkhampsted' . xxx s.

Johanni Couentre
Thome Depham . . .
Wille/?»o Baroun . .
Ricrmfo Shyrwynd'.
\Villf?/HM> Walssh'man .
Johanni. de Walsyngham

Roberto Wychele . .
Johanni de Hakbourne

Et r. in R° xlvij0 in Itew
London'.

xiij s. iiij d.
xiij s. iiij d.

xxxs.

xxx s.
xiij s. iiij d.

xxx s.

xiij s. iiij d.
xxxiij s. iiij d.

de la Bataill' . . xxxsJ

Nichofao de Sandevvych' xxxiij s. iiij d.

Johanni de Wengham . xxxiij s. iiij d.

Henr/eo Waffrer xxxs.

Wille/wo de Cud worth' xxxiij s. iiij d.

Johanni Hardy berd' . . . xxx s.

~Ricardo Me/iawe . . xxxiij s. iiij d.

Thome Maydenstane . . . xxx s.

Roberto Hunt, Baker . . iijs. iiijd..

Et r. in K° xlvjto in Res.

Norff.
Et r. iii Rotwlo xlvij0 in

Ite??i London'.
Et r. in R° xlvjto in Res.

London'.

Et r. in R° xlvij(
London'.

in

Item

62.

1370, April 25. — The half-yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer's
annuity, to Walter Wah-sh.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 44 Edw. III., m. 3.]

§ Die Jouis, xxvto die Aprilis.

GalfnWus \ Galfr/Wo Chaucer, vallec^o "Regis, cui Dominus Rex xx
Chaucer. / marcas animo^ ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suain
percipiendoa, pro bono seruicio per ipsum eideni Domino
T&egi impenso, per \iten\n suas p&tent&s nuper coneessit : In denariis
sibi liheratis, per maiiz^ Walteri Walssh', in persolucionem x matcarum

180 A.D. 1370-1. c.'s Letters of Protection fy Annuity-payments.

sibi liberandarum de \\musrnodi certo suo, videlicet, de iermino
Pasche proximo preterite, per breue sun?;* de liberate, inter mandofa
de hoc termi?2o ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.1

63.

1370, June 20. — -Chaucer, going to parts beyond the seas, haa letters
of protection till Michaelmas.

[Patent Roll, 44 Edw. III., p. 2, ra. 20. Godwin, App. vii.]
De pro- \ GalfrMus Chaucer, qui in obsequiwtt Regis ad partes
tecce'one. / transmari/jrw prefectures est, ha&et kYeras Regi.s de pro-
tecc/owe, cu??i clausula ' Volume,' vsque ad festu?>& Saiicti
Mieh«e/is proximo futurum duratura#. Preseittibits, etc. Teste Iteye,
apud Westmonaaterium, xx. die Juuij.

Per ipstim llcgem.

64.

1370, Nov. 28. — The half-yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer s
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 45 Ed\v. III., m. 11.]
§ Die Joins, xxviij0 die Nouembris.

Galfr/r/us \ G&lfrido Chaucer, vallecto Hospict)' Rer/is, cui "Dominus
Chauncer. / Rex xx marcas samitas ad Scoecaman ad totam vitam
suaui percipie?idas, pro bono se?'uicz'o per ipswm eideni
Rer/i impen^o, per k'feras suas p&tentes nuper concessit : In
sibi liberal's, in persolucionem x Yaarcarum de liniusmodi
certo suo, videlicet, de terrni?io "Michaelis proximo preterito, per brewe
de libera/e hoc iermino ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

65.

1371, Dec. 1. — Chaucer receives two half -yearly payments at once of
his annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 46 Edw. III., m. 14.]
§ Die Lune, primo die Decembm.

GalfhWus ^ GalftvWus Chaucer, vallecfo Hospic// Regis, cui Domiuus
Chaucer. / Rex xx marcas &unuas ad Scaccarium ad totani vitam
suam percipienda.9, pro bono seruicio pe?' ip«Mm eideni
Domino Regi impenso, per UYeras suas patentee nuper coucessit : In
deriams sibi liberatis, per manus propiias, in persolucionem xx
m&rcarum sibi liberandar?m de 1a\iiu*modi certo suo, videlicet, de
terme'ttis Pasche et Sancti MichrteZis proximo p?'eteritis, per brewe
suu??i de liber^e, inter mandota de hoc iermino xiij li. vj s. viij d.

1 This is translated in Devon's Issue Rolls of this year.

1372. CHAUCER'S Annuity. His Wife's Neic £10 Pension. 181

66.

1372, June 5. — The half-yearly payment of Geoffrey Chaucer's
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 46 Edw. III., m. 16.]

§ Die Sabbaft, quinto die Jun(/.

Galfridus \ Galfr/tZo Chaucer, Armigero Regis, cui Dominus Hex xx
Chaucer. / rnawas ammo* ad Scaecarium ad to tain vitam suam
percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsum eide??i Domino
Hegi impetigo, per 1/feras suas patentee nuper coucessit : In denams
sibi liberal, in perwlucionem x mai'carum de huitt*m0rft certo suo,
videfo'ce^, de termi/jo Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe de liberate,
inter inaurtWa hoc termino ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

67.

1372, Aug. 30. — A pension of £10 a year is granted to Philippa
Chaucer by the Duke of Lancaster.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, No. 13, fol. 159 d.] l

Pur Philippe \ Johan, par la grace [de Dieu Roy de Castille et de
Chause. / Leon, Due de Lancastre,] etc., A nostve trescher et b^'en
ame Cierc, Sire William de B[ughbrigg'], nostre
"R/eceyvoiir general, Saluz. Come nous de nosfae grace especiale, et
pur le bon et agreable seruice que nostre b/en ame Damoysele
"Philippe Chause ad fait et ferra en temps auenir a nosfre treschere
et tresame compaigne la Reine, auons g?-antez a ly .x. livres par an,
apprendre annuelement tanqwe a nous plerra, par les maines de
nostve, l&weyvour general qui pur le temps serra, as termes de Saint
Michel et de Pasques par oueles porcions : Voulons et vous mandons,
que des issues de vostre receit paiez et deliuerez an dit Philip les
ditz .x. litve^ par an annuelement as termes susditz, tanqwe vous
auerez autre mandement de nous rece?<, e^c. Done, e£c. a Sandwicz,
le .xxx. iour dougst, Ian e^c. xlvj.

68.

1372, Nov. 12. — Commission appointing James Provan^John de Mariy
and Geoffrey Chaucer, as envoys to treat with the Duke, Citizens,
and Merchants of Genoa, for the purpose of choosing some port
in England where the Genoese may form a commercial estab
lishment.

[French Roll, 46 Edw. III., m. 8. Rymer, vi. 755. Godwin, App. viii.]
De nnncib mis-^ Re.#, vniversis et singulis, ad quorum noticiam pre-
!lotjamie!/ seutes hYere p^ruenerint, sab/tem. Noue>'itis quod nos,
de fidelitate et circumspecci'o?ie prouida dilcctorum et
1 This is the [first] Register of John of Gaunt.— W. D. S.

182 , A.D. 1372. CHAUCER, a Commissioner. His foreign expenses.

fideliw/i nostrorum Jacobi Prouan, Jdhannia de Mari, Ciuis Janu-
ensis, et Galfr/V/i Chaucer, Scutiferi nostii, plenam tiduciam repor-
tantes, ipsos Jacobuw, Joha?mem, et Galfridum, et duos ipsovum,
quorum prefatum Johannern vnum esse volunms, Nuncios et
procurators nostros facinms et constituim&s speca'ales : Dantes et
committerites eis plenam, tenore presencium, potestatem et mandatuw
spec/ale tractaudi pro no\)is, et nomine, nostro, cum nobili viro,
Domimco de Campo Fregoso, Duce Jauuen^', et eius Consilio,
necnon Givibus, p/-obis homiiiibus, et Communit&ie Ciuitatis Janue ;
supe>- eo, videlicet, quod ijdem Ciues, et probi ho//ii?ies ac Mercatores
eiusdem Ciwitatis inhabitaciWem suam in aliquo loco seu villa aliqua,
super costeram maris in regno no^ro AngU'e, pro applicaciowe carri-
c&i'um et iiauiu?^ d/c^e Ciuitatis, cum bonis et mercandisis eortftrjdem
Ciuiu?^ et Me?*catorw??i, aptam et competente??i ha&ere valeant ;
necrion super franchesiis, libertatibws, iimnunitatibw6' et priuilegiis
eisdem Ciuib?t*' <fe Mercatoribi^ ad dictum locum et alibi in dictum
regnuw nostrum causa mercandisandi accessum vel moratum per
nos concedendw ; et ad nos de omnibus & singulis, que sic inter nos
et ipsos Ducem & Consilium suam, ac Ciues, M>rcatores, et Commu-
raitatem, tractata fue/'int, distincte et aperte certificandwm. In cuius
etc. Datwm apud Wvstmonasterium, xij. die Nouembm, anno vegni
jiostri Franci'e tricesimo tercio, legni vero nostri Angk'e quadragesimo
sexto.

69.

1372, Nov. 24. — The half-yearly payment of Chaucer's annuity.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 47 Edw. Ill m. 11. Nicolas, note D.]
§ Die Mercim)', xxiiijto die Nouembm.

Galfr^us \ Galfrw7o Chaucer, vallec^o, cui Dominus Hex xx maicas

Chaucer. / annwas ad Scaccarium ad tot-iw vita??i sua?w percipiendas,

pro bono servicio per ipsum eide??i Domino Itegi impenso,

per litems prtentes nuper conces^Y : In denariis sibi liberal, in

persolucionem x m&rcarum de huiusmodi certo suo, videl/cet, de

iermino Michae/is proximo preterite, per brewe suwn de liberate, inter

manda^a de hoc termitio ... ... .... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

70.

1372, Dec. 1. — Payment to Chaucer of 661. 13s. 4<i. for his expenses
in his mission to foreign parts on the King's secret affairs.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 47 Edw. III., m. 13. Nicolas, note D.]
§ Die Mercim;, primo die Decembm.

GalfftVfas | GalfhWo Chaucer, Armigero Kegis, misso in secret

Chaucer, j negocm Domini Regis versus paries transmarinas, de

quibws idem Dominus Rex ipmm. GaMridum onerauit :

1373. Jewels for C.'s mfe. His Genoa fy Florence journeys. 183

In demmYs sibi liberals, per manus propiias, super expenses suis per
brewe de pn'uato sigillo, inter mandafa de hoc tmni?*o

Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde
Respon debit.

[This is followed by a payment of 201. on account to William de Gunthorp
for Antonio de Aurea, of Genoa, who had been charged with certain secret
affairs by the King and Council.]

71.

1373, May 1. — Order by John of Gaunt to his Wardrobe-keeper, to
deliver a " buttoner " [and] six silver-gilt buttons to Philippa
Ohaucy, seemingly as a New Year's gift.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, No. 13, f. 195.]

Jolian [Roy de Castille et de Leon, Due de Lancastre,] etc., A
nos^re trescher et \rien ame Clerc Sire de Yerdeburgh', Gardein
de nostre grant Garderobe, saluz. Vous inandons, qe vous facez
deliuerer a iwstre \rien ame Amye de Melbourn' DClxiij perles de
plus grant sort de perles, et MUJClxxiij perles de tierce sort
de perles, et v MIDCCClviij perles dun meyndre sort [de] perles,
resceuz pcmleuant de la dite Amye par endentwre. Item, a
Aleyne Gerberge, damoicelle nostre treschere compaigue, DCxxvj
perles del second sort, et IVPDClx perles del tiercz sort, resceuz
pardeuant de la dite Amye. Item, a nostre tresredoute sieur et piere
le Roy vn lianap' dore oue couercle . . . . le iour de Ian Renoef. . . .
Item, a nosfre dite compaigne iiij botons de singlers dore. . . . Ite?/i, a
Ph//«})pe Chancy vn botoner, vj botons dargent s^rorrez, resceuz de
Amye de de [trie] Melbourn' susdite. . . . Fcsant endentz^res parentre
vous et les ditz Amye et Aleyne, tesmoignantz les choses queux vous
issint a eux deliuerez, pa/1 les quelles et cestes noz le^res portantz a voz
eomptes nous voulons qe vous soiez deschargez enuers nous pa?' garrant
de cestes noz le^res de touz les choses auantditz. Done, e^c., a nostiQ
Manoir de la Sauuoye, le primer iow de May, Ian xlvij.

72.

1373, May 23. — Ckauw's account of receipts and expenses for his
journeys to Genoa and Florence, from 1 Dec. 1372 to 23 May
1373.

[Exchequer L. T. R. Foreign Accounts, 47 Ed\v. III., forula C.]1

DE RECtfpr/s, Misrs, ET EXPENSIS P/?OFICISCENDO IN NEGOCIIS REG/.S

v^^sus [PARTES] JANNUE ET FLOREXC//I; ANNO QUADRAGESIMO

SEPTIMO. PER &AL1FKWUM CHAU[CEK].

COMPOTUS GalfriV?/ Chaucer, Scutiferi, de receptis, vaJ«'/X et

1 Referred to by Mr. F. J. Mather in The Nation, Oct. 8, 1896, p. 267. On
the same membrane is the Account of Chaucer's fellow Esquire, Geoffrey
Styuecle, " Armigeri Regis," who was sent to the parts of Flanders " for the
King's affairs," and who made " two voyages." His original Accounts are
also extant, but Chaucer's are not. See p. 176.

184 A.D. 1372-3. CHAUCER'S Genoa and Florence journeys.

expens/^ per ipsum in smiicio Reg/s nuper iactis proficiscendo in
negocm Regis versus partes Jannue et Florence, anno xlvij0, per
breue Regis de pn'uato sigillo, datum xj° die Nouembm, eodem
anno, Thesaumrio, Baronibws, et Camerams huius Scaccarij direct?«w,
in'otulatum in Memoranda de termino Sanctl Mich^e/is, anno xlviij0 ;
per quod brewe Rex mandauit eisdem Thesaurario et Barom'te, q//od
computent cum predicto GalfriWo, per sacramentum suum, de quodam
viagio per ipswm nuper facfo in seruicio Regis versus partes Jannue
et Florencie, pro quibwsdam secfetis negocijs Regis, allocando prefato
GalfnVIo pro toto dicto viagio, a die quo iter suum arripuit de
Londoiua, vsqwe ad suuw redire ibidem, talia vadia per diem, qualia
aliis scutiferis eiusdem status similiter eundo in nuncio Regis ante
hec tempora allocate fuerunt, viia cum custutws rolionabilibtt* pro
suis passagio et repassagio maris, ac de nu^cijs que ipse fieri fecit,
certificando Regem de negociis suprad/cfts. Et de eo quod per com-
potum ilium eidem Galfwdo rrtc/onabilite?' deberi inuenerint prefati
Thescmrarius et Camerai^/ ipsMm Oalfr/cZum soluciowenl de ihesauro
Regis ha&ere iacerent.

Hecepcio. — Idem teddit compotum de Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d. rece/tf/s
de 'Ehesaurario et Came?*arm, ad Receptam Scaccarij, p?f/mo die
Decembm, termino ^lichae/is, anno xlvij0, per manus propnas, super
expens?^ ipsius Galfr/^i, missi in secretis negocijs Reg^s versus p«?'tes
t?Ymsmarinas, sicut contmetur in pelle ]Memora?i^orMm, ad eandem
Receptam, de eisdem termino et anno, ac eciam in quadam cedilla
de particulis, quam liberauit in thesauro. Et de xxxiij li. in p?-ecio
CCxx florettorwra, precio cuiush'ftet flore?w iij s., veceptorum de Jakes
de Pronan, Milite, xxiij0 die Marcij, anno xlvij0, super expens^
precU'clis, sicut continetur ibidem.

XX

Bumma Recede — iiij xix li. xiij s. iiij d.

Expense. — Idem computed in vadijs suis proficiscendo in dictis
negocijs Regis, a predi'cfo prmio die Decembm, anno xlvjto fmiente,
quo die iter sum?*, arripuit de Londoma versus partes predicts,
vsq?*e xxiij1" die??i Maij proximo sequentem, quo die rediit Londonz'e,
per Clxxiiij dies, scih'cet, eundo, morando, et redeundo, vtroq?*e die
computato, cap/e?rfe pe?* diem xiij s. iiij d. — Cxvj li, per brewe
pred?c#wm Regis, sicut continetur in di'c^a cedula de particzdis. Et
in passagio et repassagio suo, hominum et equomm suorw??i — xxxs.,
per idem bre^e Regis, sicut coutinetur ib^VZem. Et soluti trib?^
nuncijs Regem de d/c£is negocijs suis per diuersas vices certifi-
cantibw*' — vij li. x s., per idem brewe Regis, sicut continetur ibeWem.

Summa expensarum — Cxxv li. Et \iabet Buperplumgium — xxv li.
vj s. viij d. l3e quibws haftiturus est soluctonem vel satisfaccz'owem
aliu?zde pretextu Inreuis Regis de p?fuiato sigillo annota^' supra in
titulo huius c<>mpo£i. Quod quidem bre?/e xv° die Nouembr^', anno
xlvij0 Regis ^jdwardi tercij, liberauit Thesaurario et
ad Ileceptam Sc«ccr/rij. [See Ko. 75.]

1373. CHAUCER'S Winter $ Summer Roles as King's Esquire. 185

73.

1373, June 27. — Account of the Keeper of the Wardrobe of the
King's Household, from 27 June 1371 to 27 June 1373, con
taining particulars of the Winter and Summer Robes delivered
to members of the Household, including Chaucer, as a " scutifer "
of the King's Chamber.1

[Exchequer Q. R. Household and Wardrobe Accounts, £$*.]
P^KTicrTLE Compoti Henrici de Wakefeld', Custodis Garderobe
Hospicij Regis, de receptis, liberacioniltus, et Expense in eadem
Garderoba factis, necnon de va,d.iis guerre solutes Hugoni Fastolf
et Johanni fratri suo a xxvij0 die Junij anno xlv vsqwe xxvij. diem
Junij anno xlvij0, per visum et testimoniura Johannis de Ipre, Con-
trarotulatom eiusdem Garderobe Reg&, scilicet, de duobz«s annis.

[f. 38.] EMPC/O EQUORZ7JU.

Willefano Cosyn et Johanni Waltham, pro denams per ipsos solutis
pro equis per ipsos empt/s de diuersis ad opus Regis pro guerra, et
liberal** Auenario pro sowetariis et chariott* de Camera Regis et
diuersis QSiciis Hospicij eiusdem infra tempus huiws compoti, vide
licet : — Alicie Bwrston' de Hull', pro viij equis, quorwra duo nigri, vnus
badius, vnus badius baus&#6', duo nigri, vnus rubews, et vnus falowe,
xxiiij li. Willelmo Bolle de Larkestok', p?*o vij equis, quoium duo
albz, duo nigri badi}',2 vnus gris^ws pomelF, vnus dosius, et vnus
veyron', xvij li. vj s. viij d. . . .

[f. 4s.] FEODA & ROBE.

Johanni, Domino de Neuyll', Baneretto, tieneschallo Rospicij Regis,
pro feodo suo pro anno present* xlvto, xiij li. vj s. viij d. Eideni, pro
rob& suis yemalibus et estiuah'&ws, x li. xiij s. iiij d

Jolianni Herlyng', Johanni de Beuerle, Waltero Walssh', Petro de
Cornubia, Elmyngo Leget, Roberto de Corby, NichoZao Daprich-
court, Johanni Salesbury, Thome Hauteyn, Hugoni Cheyne,
QtAfrido Chaucer, GalfraWo Steuecle, Simoni de Burgh', "Edmundo
Rose, Johanni de Thorpe, Thome de Hertfordingbury, Hugoni
Lingein, Mcho/ao Prage, Bicardb Torpe?ie, Johanni Northrugge,
Hanino Narret, WilleZmo Archbald', Johanni atte Welle, Thome
Prest, Willelmo Purcell', Ricar^o de Armis, Ricardo Waffrer,
Roberto Makeney, Roberto Magh'feld', Thome Forcer, Johanni
Leche, Roberto Louthe, Johanni Beleuall, Waltero Tyrell', Petro
de Preston', Rogero Archer, Ricardo Stanes, Johanni Gatenoys,

1 A parchment book consisting of 88 leaves bound in parchment, and in
excellent condition. The greater part of this book is occupied with the
accounts of the daily expenses in the Household, after which follow the
' Dona,' ' Eleraosina,' and ' Feoda,' etc. From the last of these divisions the
following extracts are taken. — W. D. S.

2 A black bay is a dark bay with black points (mane, tail, legs, hoofs).
LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 13

186 1373. CHAUCER'S Winter fy Summer Roles as King' s Esquire.

Heim'co de Almanma, Jacobo de Dycheford', Joha?mi Cat, Wil-
lelmo Beurle, Johanni Joce, Roberto Bardolf, Rogero Mareschall',
Gilberto Talbot, Georgw Felbrugge, Thome de Stanes, Johanni
Beauchamp', Johanni Dauys, Johanni Iselham, Johanni Goderyk'
fih'o, Roberto Vrsewyk', Roberto la Souche, WilleZm Foxle, Petro
Roos, Rogero Dalyngrugge, NichoZao Braithwait, Johanni Torell',
Johanni Archebald', Gerardo Robussarfc, et WilleZrao Adderbury,
scutiferis Camere Regis, EdmwrcfZo Chesthunt, Tristrem Leghes
et Colynet Fauconer, Falconam's Regis, cuih'oet eor^ra xl s., pro rob?'s
[f. 43, a.] suis yemal/te et estiuahTws, Cxxxli. Rogero de Clebury,
pro rob^s suis ymelibus [sic\, xxvj s. viij d. Johanni Holand' et
WilleZwo Chalmesle, vtriq?*e eorum xxs., p?*o fobis suis estiuaHte,
xls

tf.82.] FEOD^, ROBE, ET CALCIATUR^. [of

Johanni Domino de Neuylle, Baneretto, Seneschallo Hospicij Regis,
pro feodo suo pro anno present! xlvj110, xiij li. vj s. viij d. Eidem,
pro robw suis yemaliZws et estiuah'owi?, x li. xiij s. iiij d

Johanni de Herlyng', Johanni de Beuerle, Johanni Romesey,
Waltero Walssh', Petro de Cornubia, Elrayngo Leget, Roberto de
Corby, MchoZao Dapricbcowrt, Johanni de Salesbury, Thome
Hauteyn, Hugoni Cheyne, Galfr^o Chaucer, Galfn'<io Steuecle,
Simoni de Burgh', Waltero Whithors, Johanni Chiual, Johanni de
Thorp', Thome de Hertfordingbury, Hugoni Lingein, NichoZao
Prage, Ricarc^o Torperle, Johanni JSTorthrugge, Willelmo Arche
bald, Johanni atte Welle, WilleZwo Purcell', Ricardo de Arm^'s,
Jticardo Waffrer, Roberto Makeney, Roberto Maghfeld', Tho?we
Forcer, Johawm Leche, Roberto Louthe, Johanni Beleuall', Walte?-o
Tyrell', Petro de Preston', Rogero Archer, Ric<mfo Stanes, Johanni
Gatenoys, Henrico de Almannia, Jacobo de Dicheford', Johanni
Cat, WilleZmo Beurle, Johanni Joce, Roberto Bardolf, Rogero
Marschall', Gilberto Talbot, Georgio Felbrugge, Thome Stanes,
Johanni Beauchamp', Johanni Daneys, Joharmi Iselham, Johanni
Goderik filio, Roberto Vrsewyk, Roberto la Souche, Willelmo de
Foxle, Petro de Roos, Rogero Dalyngrugge, Nicho/ao Braithwait,
Johanni Torell', Johanni Archebald', Gerardo Robussart, WilleZmo
Adderbury, Rogero Cheyne, JLdmundo Chesthunt, Tristrem Leghes,
Colynet Fauconer, et Johanni Pauele, cuik'&et eotum xl s., pro xohis
suis yemalibus et estiuah'o^, Cxxxiiij li. Rogero de Clebury, pro lohis
suis yemalibus, xxvj s. viij d

74

1373, Sept. 29. — Extract from the Account of the Sheriffs of London
and Middlesex, showing Chaucer's discharge from the £10
received by him at the commencement of the war.
[Pipe Roll, 47 Edw. III.]

1373. C. V discharge from £10. His Italian expenses to be paid. 1 87

LONDON/^ : MIDDLESEX i A.

Ciues Londone'e — Nicho/aus Brembre & Johannes Phelipot,
Vicecomites Londom'e & Middtex/e, de hoc anno xlvij0 pro eisdem
Civibws — leddunt compotwtt [&c.]

Item Londoma.

KaduZp/ius de la Bataill' [debet] xxxs. de p?-estito per ipswm
iQceptos in prmcipio guerre super vadws & expensis suis anno xliij0
ibidem [i. e., in compoto Henna de WakefekT, Custodes Gardero&e
Hospic*)' Kegt's].

Bicar^us Medford' debetf x li. de consimili prestito ibidem. Sea*
non debet inde summowen', per brewe "Regis de pn'uato sigt'ZZo, irro-
tulatum in ~M.emorand.is de anno xlviij0 Regis huiws, te?-miwo Hilla?1?)' ,
directum Thesaurario & Baromft&s, p*o p?*edzc/o Ricarrfo & aliis
conterct/s in eode??i brewi, per quod. Rex msmdauit Barom'&ws, quod
ip^wm Ricardum & alios ^quemlibet de x li. ad Scacc«r?wm exonere?!^
et qwietwm esse i&ciant. — Et quietus est.

Oalfrtfni ; Chaucer _debrf x li de con- Serf non debeMt inde sum.

sumh prestito ibidem. • ,

Johannes Northrugg' debe* xli. de cons.

p?'estito ibidem.
Simon de Bukenham debe^ x li. de cons.

allocatum Kiacardo de
Medford supra. — Etquieti

prestito ibide??i.

[There are many other similar entries.]

75.

1373, Nov. 11. — Writ to the Treasurer, Barons, and Chamber
lains of the Exchequer to pay Chaucer for his journeys to Genoa
and Florence.

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Mich., 48 Edw. III., Brcvia, m. 14.]
§ Adhuc Breuia directa Baronibws de Scoccario iermino Michaelis
anno xlviij Regis TZdwardi tercij.

Pur Geflrey Chaucer.

Edward, par la grace de Dieu, etc., As Tresorer et Barons et
Chamberleins de nostxe Escheqer, saluz. Nous vous mandons que
vous acontez par souw se?*ement ouuesqwe nostie ame Esquier Geffrey
Chaucer du viage quel il fist nadgaires en nosfre seruice alaut vers les
parties de Jeene et de Florence pur acunes noz secrees busoignes,
allouant au dit Geffrey pwr tout le dit viage, du iour qil sen de-
partist de nos^re Citee de Londres pwr celle cause, tanq^^e a son
retour illoeqes, autieux gages le iour com sont allowez a autres esquiers
de son estat alantz semblablement pardela en nos^re message auant
ces heures, ensemblement ouesqwe coustages resonables pur sou?i
passage et repassage de la mere, et aussi de messageres quels il fist faire
par celle cause deuers nous, pur nous ce?-tifier de noz bosoignezs

188 A.D. 1373-4. CHAUCER'S A nnuity. He is let off £10.

susditzs. Et de ceo que vous trouerez resonablement duz an dit
Geffrey par mesme laconte, vous auantditz Tresorer et Chamberleins
lui facez faire paiement de nostre tresorer. Done souz nosfae priue
seal, a Westmowter, le xj. iour de Nouembre, Ian de nostre regne
dengletere quarante septisme, et de France trent quart.

Hoc brewe liberate?* ad Receptam Scaccarij quintodecimo die
Nouembm indorsatum sic : — Pretextu hums brewis computatum est
ad Scaccarium Compotorwm cum GalfhWo Chaucer infrascripto de
Receptis, vadm, et expenses per ipswm in smiicio Regis factis
proficiscendo in negocm Reg^s versus partes Jannue et Flo-renege
anno xlvij0 ~&egis ILdwardi tercij ; qui quidem compotus iri'otulatur
xoiulo xlvij0, Rotulo Compotorum.1 Et debentwr eidem Galfr^o per
compotum predectwm — xxv li. vj s. viij d.

76.

1373, Nov. 22. — Half-yearly payment of Chaucer's annuity, he being
described as a yeoman.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 48 Edw. III., m. 9. Nicolas, note E.]

§ Die Martis, xxij. die Novembrw,

GalfriWus \ Galfr^o Chaucer, vallecto, cui Dominus 'Rex xx maxcas
Chaucer. / armuas ad Scaccariwm ad totara. vitam suam pe?'cipiendrts,
pro bono seruicio per ips?<m eidem Dommo Re^' impenso,
per h7eras suas p&tentes nuper coneessit : In denariis sibi liberatis, per
manws propiias, in persolucionem x maxcarum sibi liberandarwm de
\m\usmodi ce?*to suo, videlicet, de termiwo Pasche proximo preterite,
per brewe suum de liberate, inter mandato de hoc termino ...

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.
77.

1374, Jan. 20. — Enrolment of a Writ of Privy Seal directed to the
Treasurer and Barons of the Exchequer^ by which the repayment
of the sums advanced by the King to Chaucer and others is
remitted*

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, 48 Edw. III., Brevia, Hilary, m. 3J

§ Adhuc Breuia directa Baronibws de termiwo Sancti Hillary

Anno xlviij0 Re^/s JLdwardi tercij.

Pur Richard } Edward, par la grace de Dieu Roi, e£c., As Tresorer et

Medford' et V Barons de nosfre Escheqer, saluz. Cum de nosfre

altres. J grace especiale eons pardonez a noz ames seruantz

Richard' Medford', Job an Carp', Richard' Thorp',

Johan Saresbirs, Wauter Walsh', Roger Clebury, Thomas Hauteyn,

Geffrey Chaucer, Geffrey Styuecle, Johan Northrugg', Symon de

Bukenham, Thomas Forcer, Thomas de Stanes, Esmon de Tettes-

1 See No. 72.

2 The sum remitted to Chaucer in this writ is the £10 advanced on account
of the war in France in the 43rd year of Edward III. (See No. 61.)

1374. C.'s Italian expenses paid. His daily Pitcher of Wine. 189

worth', Johan Godryk', Johan de Gosden', William Archebaud',
Robert de Erhith', Johan de Cokfeld', Johan atte Well', Roger de
Bouyndon', Ferrour, Johan Pury, William Blacomore, Richard' des
Armes, Roger Archer, Robert Makeneye, William Man, Andreu de
Tyndale, James de Dycheford', Robert Maghfeld', Johan Kat, Johan
Leche, Hugh' Strauley, Robert Ferers, Esmon Rose, et Richard'
Leche, cest assauoir, a chescun de eux, les dys liures es queles il
nous est tenuz come par lui receues dapprest de noz deniers sur son
regard ou ses gages de guerre de nostre ame Clerc Henry de
Wakfeld', Gardein de nostr& Garderobe, Ian de nostre regne Dengle-
tere quarant tierz : Vous mandons qwe chescun des dites Richard',
Johan, Richard', Johan, Waute?*, Roger, Thomas, Geffrey, Geffrey,
Johan, Synion, Thomas, Thomas, Esmon, Johan, Johan, William,
Robert, Johan, Johan, Roger, Johan, William, Richard', Roger,
Robert, William, Andreu, James, Robert, Johan, Johan, Hugh',
Robert, Esmon, et Richard', facez descharger de les dites dys liures
ensi par lui receues, et quiter ent, et aussi le dit Henry, enuers nous
a nostfQ Escheqer susdit. Done souz uostre priue seale, a West-
mouster, le xx. iour de Januer, Ian de nostre regne Dengletere quarant
septisme, et de France trent quart.

78.

1374, Feb. 4. — Payment to Geoffrey Chaucer, the King's Esquire, of
251. 6s. 8d., for his wages and expenses in going to Genoa and
Florence.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 48 Edw. III., m. 20. Nicolas, note E.]
§ Die Sabba^i, quarto die February'.

GalfivWus ) GalfhWo Chaucer, armigero Regis, in denams sibi

Chaucer, j liberates, per manus proprias, in peraol-acionem xxv li. vj s.

viij d. sibi debitor^??* per compotum secum fac^m ad

Bcaccttrium Compofcorwm de receptis, vadm, et expense per ipsum in

sermcio Hegis fac/is p?*oficiscendo in negocm "Regis versus pa?-tes

Jannue et Florewcie anno xlvij. ... ... ... xxvli. vj s. viij d.

79.

1374, April 23. — King Edward III. grants Chaucer a pitcher
of wine daily, to be received in the port of London at the hands
of the King's Butler.

[Patent Roll, 48 Edw. III., part 1, m. 20. Rymer, vii. 35. Godwin, App. ix.]

Pro GalfrzWo Chaucer.

, Omnibus ad quos, etc., salwtem. Sciatis, qwod de gmci'a
spec/ali concessim^-s dilecfo armigero no^ro, Galfrw^o Chaucer,
vnuw pycher vini, percipiendM/TJ quoh'6et die in portu Ciuitatis
Londom'e, pe>* inanus Pincerne no^-i vel heredum noshomm

190 A.D. 1374. Lease to CHAUCER of the Dwelling above Aldfjate.

pro tempore existentis, vel eiusdem Pincerne locumtenentis, ad
totam vitam ipsius GalfhWi. In cuius, etc. Teste Reye, apud
Wyndesore, xxiij. die Apiilis.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

80.

1374, May 10. — Chaucer obtains a lease from the Mayor ,
Aldermen, and Commonalty of the City of London of all the
" mansion " above the gate of Aldgate.

[City of London Records, Letter Book G, fo. 321. J]
Vniuersis ad quos presens scn'ptum indentatzm peruenerit Adam
de Bury, Maior, Aldermanni et Communit&s Ciuitatis Londom'e,
saltttem. Noueritis nos, vnanimi assensu et voluntate, concessisse et
dimisisse per presentes Galfrido Chaucer totam mansionem supra
portam de Algate, cum domibus superedificatis et qwodam celario
Sttbtog eandem portaw, in parte austral' eiwsdem porte, cum suis
pertiuenciis : ~H.abvud.um et t&nenditm tota?w mansionew pred/c£am,
cum domibws superedificatis, et dicto celario, cum suis pert'menciis,
p?-efato Galfrido, ad totam vitam eiusdern GalfnWi. Et predicts
GalfriWus totam mansionem p?*edic^am, ac domos eiusdem, quociens
iiecesse fuerit, in omnibus suis necessam'^ sustentabit et reparabit
competenter et sufficients, sumptibz^s ipsius Galfr/Ji, per totam vitam
eiusdem Gr&lfridi. Et bene licebit Came7*ar/o Gyhalde Londonie, qui
pro tempore fuerit, quociens sibi videbittw expedire, ad inirandum
mansionem et domos predicts c\im pertinenciis, ad eas supe?fui-
dendum, quod bene et competenter et sufficienter sustententur et repm'-
entwr, vt pred^cfttm est ; et si predicts Galfridus predickas mansio-
newi et domos now sustentauerit nee reparaue?lt competenter et
sufficiente?', vt premittitwr, infra quadraginta dies postqwam per
eundern Camerari'ww ad hoc faciendum requisitus fuerit, quod tune
bsne liceat prefato Came^-ario pred^wm GalfrMum totaliter inde
expellere, et easdem mansione//*, domos, et celarwm, cum pertinenciis,
in manu?^ Ciuitatis reseisire et reassumere ad opus Gommumt&tis
predicte, et eas in pristino statu suo tenere ad opus eiusdem
Gommunifaiis, sine contradicc^o^e quacunqz^e. Et no/i licebit prefato
Galfr>Ho mansione??i, domos, et celar/wm p?'ed^cta, nee pwtem inde,
nee statiuft suum inde, alicui dimittere. Et nos, p?-ed/c^i Maior,
Aldermanni, eb Comnumifas nullu??^ carcerem inde pro pn'sonibws
ibidem custodiendte' fieri faciemws durante vita predict Galfticft, set
nos et successores nos^ri easdem mansionem, domos, et celarium, c\im
Biiis pertinenciis, p?'efato Galfrido ad totam vitam eiusdem Galfridi
in forma predicts, warantizabimws ; hoc tamen excepto, quod pro

1 For a translation of this document see Riley's Memorials of London and
London Life, A.D. 1276-1419, pp. 377-8 (ed. 1868) ; also Appendix to Trial
Forewords, p. i.

1374. O. made Comptroller of tlie Oustoms of Wool $ Wines. 191

tempwe defensionis Ciuitatis predicts, quandocuwqwe necesse fuerit,
nobis et siiccessorib?^ nos£ris mansionem et domos predictas bene
licebit intrare, et de eisdem disponere et ordinare pro eodem tempore,
prout nobis melius tune videbitw expedire. Et post decessum
eiusdem Galfridi praltcte mansio, domus, et celariu?^, cum suis
perkinenciis, nobis et successoribws nostris integre i&uertentur. In
emits rei testimonium tarn sigillum commune Ciuitatis predictQ qiiam
sigilluw predict Qr&lfridi preseutibM$ indents/is alternatim sunt
appensa. Datum in Camera Gyhalde Ciuitatis predict, decimo die
Maij, anno regni Reg/^ Edwardi tercij post conquestuw quadragesimo
octauo.

81.

1374, June 8. — Chaucer is appointed Comptroller of the Custom
and Subsidy of Wools, Hides, and Wool-fells in the Port of
London.

[Patent Roll, 48 Edw. III., p. 1, m. 7. Rymer, vii. 38. Godwin, App. x.]

De officio Con- ] 'Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., sal^tem. Sciatis, qwod

trarotttlatoris V concessiniMs dilec^o nobi6- Galfr^o Chaucer officiu?;i

concesso. J Contmrotulatoris Custume et Subsidij lanarw?^,

coriorum, et pelliu?w lanutarz<?w, in Portu Londom'e,

habendum qwamdiu nobis placuerit, percipiendo in officio illo tantw??&

qnantu?/i alij Cont?'arotulatores Custume et Subsidij huiusmodi in

Portu predicto hactenus pe?*cipere consueuerunt : Ita qwod idem

Gralfridiis rotulos suos, dictum officiu??z taugentes, manu sua pwpria

scribat, et continue moretar ibidem, et om?zia que ad officium illud

pertinent in propria persons, sua, et non per substitutura suu?w, faciat

et exequatur, et quod altera pars sigilli, quod dicit?«r Coket, in

custodia ip.s'ius Galfridi remaneat, q?^amdiu omciu?n ha6uerit

suprad^c^nn. In cuius e£c. Tes^e Rege, apud Westmonasterium,

viij. die Jim//.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

82.

1374, June 8 and 12. — Chaucer is appointed Comptroller of the
Custom and Subsidy of Wools, etc., and also Comptroller of the
Petty Customs of Wines, etc., in the Port of London ; and he
appears in the Court of Exchequer to take his oath.
[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Trin. 48 Edw. III., Eecorda, m. 1 d.]
Adhuc Communisi de termireo Sancte Trinitat/s Anno xlviij0

Reg/s Edwardi tercij. Adhuc Recorda.
LONDON/^ — L/r^RE REGIS PATENTES IRROTULATE.
Edwardus, Dei gr«cm Rex Angh'e et Francz'e, et Dominus Hibemz'e,
Omnibus ad quos presentes hYere peruene?int, salwtem. Sciatis, q?^od
concessimw^ dilecto nob isGroMrido Chaucer officia tarn Contrarotulatoris
Custume et Subaidij lanarw/?^, corior^w, et pelliu/yi l&imt'dium,

192 A.D. 1374. G., Comptroller of Customs. His fresh £10 a year.

Contrarotulatoris parue Custume vinomra, ac trium denariomw de
libra, necnon pannorw??i et aliarzi/ft mercandisaraw. quarwtticuuiq«e
custumabiliuw, per mercatores tarn indigenas qiiam alienigenas nobis
debitors?* in Portu Londom'e : Hafeenda qwamdiu nob?^ placuerit,
percipiendo in officiis illis tantum quantum alij Contrarotulatores Cus-
tumarum, huiusmodi inPorfcupred^cto hactenus percipere consueuerunt :
Ita quod idem Galfh'dus rotwlos suos dicta, officia tangentes manu sua
propria scribat, et continue moretwr ibidem, et omwia que ad officia
ilia pertinent in propria persona sua, et non per substitutura suuw,
faciat et exequat?«r : Volentes, quod tarn altera pars sigilli nostri quod
dicitw Coket quam altera pars alterius sigilli nostri pro paruis
Custumis deputati in portu predicto in custodia predictl GalfnWi
remaneant qz^amdiu officia hafeuerit supr«d?'c^a. In emus rei
testimonium has l«7eras nostfras fieri fecim?<5 patentes. Teste me ipso,
apud Westmonasterium, viij. die Junij, anno Yegni nostri Angl/e
quadragesimo octauo, xegni vero nostri Franc^e tricesimo quinto.

Per \)Teue de priuato sigillo.

Et predicts Galfr^us, p?*esens in Cur/a xij° die Junz; dic^o anno
xlviij0, prestitit s&cmmentum de bene et fideliter se h«6endo in officio
predicto1 qwamdiu, etc.

83.

1374, June 13. — Grant by John of Gaunt, Dulce of Lancaster,
to Geoffrey Chaucer of .£10 a year for life, for his own and his
wife's services.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, No. 13, f. 90.]

Johan, [par la grace de Dieu Roy de Castille et de Leon, Due
de Lancastre,] etc. Faisons sauoir que nous, de nostre grace especial,
et pur la bone etc. [i. e. la bone et agreable service] que nosfre b?'«n
ame Geffray Chaucer nous ad fait, et auxint pur la bon seruice que
nostre b/en ame "Philippe, sa fem?^e, ad fait a nosfre treshon!«/-e Dame
et Miere la Royne (que Dieu pardoigne), et a no^re t?-es-ame
compaigne la Royne [de Castille, etc.], auons graunte au dit Geffray x
livres par an, a terme de sa vie, apprendre annuelment le course de
sa vie durant, a nosfre Manoir de la Sauuoye, pres de Loundres, par
les mayns de nostre Receyvour general, q'ore est, ou qi pwr le temps
serra, as termes de Saint Michel et de Pasques, par ouelles porcions.
En iesmoignance etc. Done efc. a Sauuoy, pres de Londres, le xiij
iowr de Juyn, Ian xlviij [48 Edw. III.].

84.

1374, July 6. — Two half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuity, and
jive of his wife's, all paid at once to Chaucer himself.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 48 Edw. III., m. 12.]

1 Qu. for ' officiis predictis.' But the Patent Roll of the same date (No. 81)
says nothing about the Controllership of the Petty Customs, which Chaucer did
not obtain till 8 May 1382.

1374-5. Payments of A nnuities to CHAUCER and his Wife. 193

§ Die Jouis, vjto die Julij.

GalfhVZus \ GalfhVZo Chaucer, armigero ~Regis, cui "Dominus [Rex] xx
Chaucer. / mareas annwas ad Scacc&rium ad totam vita?w suaw
pe?'cipiendas, p?-0 bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino
Regi impenso, per hYeras suas p&ie?ites nuper concern^ : In denams
sibi liberates,1 p<w mantes propvias, in pariem soli^'owis xx marcaruni
sibi liberandarw?ra de huiuJmodi certo suo, vide//cet, de term mis Sancti
Michaels et Pasche proximo preteritis, per brewe suwn de liberate,
inte?' mandato de hoc mandate 2 ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

"Philippe \ "Philippe Chaucer, vni domicellan/??i "Philippe, nuper
Chaucer./ Re^me Angk'e, cui "Domin.ua Rex x marcas &imuas ad
ScaccsiriuHi ad totam vitam sua??i per*cipiendas, pro bono
seruicio per ip^am eidem Re^'ne impenso, per hVeras suas patewfes
nuper conces^Y : In denarm sibi libe?'at/s, per manws eiusde?^
GalfrtWi, in persolncionem xxv msxcarum sibi liberandorttm de
hmuswodi certo suo, videZicet, de termi/zo Pasche anno xlvj°, iermima
Sancti MichaeZis et Pasche a?mo xlvij0, et termmis &anct\. Michae/is et
Pasche proximo preterite, per brewe suum de liberate, inter mandata
de hoc termino xvj li. xiij s. iiij d.

85.

1375, Jan. 20. — Extract from the Duke of Lancaster's warrant to
John de Yerdeburgh, Clerk of his Great Wardrobe, to pay
Chaucer's pension (among others).

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, No. 13, f. 224.]

Johan, [par la grace de Dieu Roy de Castille et de Leon, Due de
Lancastre,] efc., A nosfre t?-es ame Clerc Sire Johan, vt sup?*a [Sire
Johan de Yerdeburgh', Clerc de nostre grant Garderobe], saluz.
Pource que nous voulons qwe certainz gentz desouz nomez soient paiez
de les sommes souz escripts, en et par la manere quensuit, vows mandons
que des issues de nosrfre Receit paiez et deliuerez a .... Item a Geffrey
Chacy x livres par an, as termes de Saint Michel et de Pasques par
ouelles porcions, comenceant le primer paiement a le fest de saint
Michel derrein passe. . . . Done al Manoir de la Sauuoye, le xx. iour
de Januer, Ian xlviij [48 Edw. III.].

86.

1375, Jan. 24. — Three half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuity ;
and one half-yearly payment to him of his wife's annuity.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 49 Edw. III., m. 12.]
§ Die Mercim}', xxiiij. die January.

Galfr/tZus \ Galfrt'do Chaucer, armigero Regis, [cui Dominus Rex] xx
Chaucer. / marcos ann?/os ad Scacc&rium ad totam vitam suwn
pe?*cipienda5, pro bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Dommo
1 Sibi liberates is repeated. 2 Sic : should be " termino"

194 A. D. 1375. A nnuities of CHAUCER $• his Wife. 40s. advanced him.

[Regi] impenso, per Uterus suas Rentes nuper concessit : In denariis
sibi liberat/s, per m&nus proprias, in persolucionem xx mwcarum sibi
liber&ndarum de huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de te?-minis MichaeZis
et Pasche anno xlviij0, per brewe suu??i de liberate, inter mandate de
hoc termino ... ... ... ... ... ... ... x li.

Eidem Galfrido : In denariis sibi liberates in persolucionem x
m&Tcarum sibi libe?-and«nm de hniusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de
termino MichaeZis proximo preterito, per brewe in proxw^a particular
superiws allegat#?/i ....... ,. ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

a, \ "Philippe Chaucer, vni domicellarww Ph^7^/>pe, miper
Chaucer. / Ke#me Angh'e, cui Dommws Rex x marccw annzt«s ad
Scacca?*wra ad totam vitam suam pe?-cipiendas, pro bono
seruicio per ipsam eidem Regine impen^o, per hYeras suas p&tentes
nuper concessit : In denariis sibi liberatis, per m&nus eiusde?«
Galfrz'^', in persolucionem v marcarum sibi liberandantm de
huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de tmnino Sancti Mich«eZis proximo
preterito, per breue suum de liberate, inter m&ndata de hoc te?'mino

Ixvj s. viij d.

87.

1375, May 15. — An advance of 40s. to C/iaucer on account of his
Annuity.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 49 Edw. III., m. 3.]
§ Die Martis, xv° die Maij.

GalfnYZus ) Galfr?Ho Chaucer, armigero Regis, cui T>ominus Rex xx
Chaucer, j marcos annuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suaw
percipiendrts, pro bono seruic/o per ipsum eidem Domino
Regi impenso, per kVeras suas p&tentes nuper concessit : In denam'-s
sibi liberates, per manws proprias, de p?*estito super liuiusmodi certo
suo ................. . ... xl s. ; vnde

Respondebit.

88.

1375, July 26. — Accounts of John de Bernes and Nicholas de
Brembre, Collectors of Customs and Subsidies, under the survey
of Chaucer, from 26th Feb., 1374, to this date,
[Exchequer, L. T. R., Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 8, m. 62.]
RESIDUUM DE ANTIQUA CUSTUMA IN PORTU LONDONIARCTM.
Compotus Joluinnis de Bernes et NichoZai de Brembre, Collectorzm
Cnstnmarum et Subsidiorum predictontm [Regis] in Portu et locis
predicts [abinde ex vtmq?^e parte Thamisz'e vsqwe Graueshende, et
ibidem, et exinde vsqwe Tillebury, et ibide??i,] per brewe Regis patens,
datum xxvjto die ~Febiluarij, anno xlviij0, penes ipsos Collectores
remanens, videlicet, de exitibws Custiiine et Subsiefo)' lanar?^??^,
pelliu^ hnutarum, et coriorum, a predicto xxvjto die Febiwo'z;, dicto

A,D. 1375. CHAUCER surveys Accounts. His father mentioned. 195

anno xlviij0, ante quern diem pre&ictns Johannes de Bernes, Collector
Custumarww et Subsidiorum predictomm, inde computauit supra,1
vsqwe festum Sancti Michae/is proximum sequens, per visuin et
testimoniwrc Willelmi de Leght' et Galfndi Chaucer, successiue
Contrarotulatoris eora?idem Custumamm et Subsidiorum ibidem.
A quo quidem festo ijdem Collectores sunt inde computaturi.

[The total sums received from various sources are then set out, "the
Controller's Roll of particulars " being referred to several times, but it is not
extant.]

*****
Bumma Recepte — xiij M1 CCCC xxvj li. xviij s. vj d.

*****
Et p?*efatis Coutraroiulatoribus pro vadns suis per idem tempus,
xli., sicnt allocatum est in compotis precedentibus. Et in locaca^e
viiius domus ad dictfam Custumam in eadem colligendam, et pro aliis
neccessariis in eadem faciendis, per idem tempus, Ixs., sicut
allocatum est in compotis precedentibus. Et in stipends vmus
batillara}' custodient/s Aquam Thamisze per idem tempus, xl s., sicut
allocatum est in compotis pr evident ibus. Et debent xiiij s. Et
respondent in Rotulo 1°, in Ad hue Residuum London«'e.2

\_Ibid.~]

Compotus predictorum Johannis et Nicho?ai, Collectoru?n Cus-
tumarttm et Subsidiorum predicborum in Portu et locis predicts, per
brewe Regw patens datu??z xxvjto die Febrwm/, anno xlviij0, super
hunc compotum ^estitut^^??^ ; videlicet, de exitibus Custume et Svibsidij
l&uarum, pellium lanutar^??z, et coriorum ibidem, a festo Sa^c^i
Michae/is, anno xlviij0 tiuiente, vsq^^e xxvj™ diem JuH)' proximum
seqwens, per visum et testimoniuw Galfr^i Chaucer, Contrarotulatom
Cusbumarum et Subsidiorum Regzs ibide?n, videlicet, de trikus
quarterzVs anni et xxvij diebws. A quo quidem xxvjto die July, anno
xlix., p?'edzc^ Nicho/aus et Wille/mws de Wai worth', Collec^ore^
ibidem, sunt inde computaturi.

*****

Swmma Recede — xx Milh'a CCCClxiiij li. xixd. ob. qua. * * *
Et quieti sunt.

[No payment to the Comptroller is mentioned in this second account.]

89.

1375, Aug. 21. — John Chaucer's conveyance to Aubrey again
mentioned.

[Rusting Roll, 103, No. 180.]

Deed by John Aubrey, executor of Andrew Aubrey, and son and
heir of the said Andrew, selling and granting to William Haldene

1 i. e., on the same membrane.

2 These last two items occur also in succeeding accounts. There is nothing
about Chaucer in the Collectors' further account in Pipe Roll, 50 Edvv. III.

196 1375. Tlie C .' s Annuities paid. His Wardship of E. Staplegate.

and nine others (inter alia) all those tenements which his father had
of the grant and sale of John Chauser, brother and executor of
Thomas Heyron, formerly citizen and vintner, in the parish of St.
Mary of Aldermariechirch. Dated at London, 21 August, 49
Edward III.

90.

1375, Oct. 20. — Two half-yearly payments of Cliaucer's and his
ivife's annuities, made to Chaucer himself.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 50 Edw. III., m. 5.]

§ Die Sabbaft, xx° die Octobm.

Galfr^us \ Galfr/do Chaucer, cui 'Domin.ua Re# xx marcas annwas
Chaucer. / ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipiendas, pro
bono seruicio per ipszmi eidem Domino R-egi impenso, vel quousq&e
pro statu suo aliter fuerit prouisum, per U'teras suas patentes
nuper concess^ : In denam's sibi liberates, per manws proprias, in
persolucionem xx marcarum sibi liberandamm de huiusmodi certo
suo, videlicet, de termmis Sancti MichaeZis et Pasche proximo
p?'eteritis, per brewe suura de liberate, inter mandafa de hoc termiwo

xiij li. vj s. viij d.

Phz'fcjtgnis1 1 Ph*7//?pe Chaucer, nuper vne1 domicellara??i Camere
Chaucer. j "Philippe, nuper Regine AngU'e, cui Dominus Rex x
marcas annuals ad Bcaccarium ad totam vitam suam
percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsam eidem Domino Regi im
penso, vel quousqwe pro statu suo aliter fuerit prouisuw, per h'teras
suas patentes nuper concessit : In denams sibi liberates, per maims
dicrt Qalfridi, in persolucionem x marcarum sibi liberandorttw de
hniusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de term mis Sancti Michae/is et Pasche
proximo preteritis, per brewe suum de liberate, inter mandata de hoc
termino ... , vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

91.

1375, Nov. 8. — Chaucer, as " Scutifer Regis" gets a grant of
the custody of the lands and person of Edmund Staplegate, of
Kent, aged 18, who afterwards paid Cthaucer £104 for his ward
ship and marriage?

[Patent Roll, 49 Edw. III., p. 2, m. 8. Godwin, App. xi.]

2 See "No. 108, post. The Inquisition p. m. of Edmund Staplegate, 16 April,
46 Edw. III., 1372, states that he held the manor of Bylsyngton, in Kent, of
the King, by the service of rendering three cups (ciphos) of "maple" at the
King's Coronation ; and that he also held 7 messuages, a grange, and 15 acres
of arable land in Canterbury and its suburb, of the King, in burgage and in
gavelkind. Edmund Staplegate was his son and heir in respect of the manor,
aged 18^ years. The same Edmund and John and Thomas his brothers, aged
9 and 5 years, were heirs to the Canterbury property ; but Chaucer had the
wardship of Edmund only. 1 Sic.

A.D. 1375. CHAUCER $ E. Staplegate. C. survey >s Customs Accounts. 197

Pro GalfHtZo \ Rex, Omnibus etc., salwtem. Sciatis, quod de gracia
Chaucer. / nostra, speciali commisinms dilecfo scutifero nostro,
Galfr/Jo Chaucer, custodiam omnium terr&rum et
tenementorum cum pertinencits que fuerunt Edmundi Stapelgate,
defuncti, qui de nob/s tenuit in capite, et que per mortem eiusdem
Edmundi et rac/one minoris etatis heredis eiusdem Edmundi in
manu nostra. existunt : habendam, cum omnibus ad custodiam illam
spectantibws, vsqz^e ad legitimam etatem heredis predicti, vna cum
maritagio eiusdem heredis sine disparagaciowe, absqwe aliquo nobis
inde reddendo seu soluendo pro custodia et maritagio predictis ; ita
qwod idem Galfr/V/us vastum et destruccKwem in eisdem terns et
tenementis non faciat, set seruicia realia et omma alia, one?'a eisdem
terns et tenementis incumbencia faciat et sustentet, qz^amdiu custo
diam ha&uerit supradictfam. In cuius etc. Teste Hege, apud West-
monastertum, viij. die Nouembm.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

92.

1375, Nov. 15. — Account of Nicholas de Brembre and William de
Walworth, Collectors of Customs and Subsidies, under the survey ,
of Chaucer , from 27th July to this date.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 8, m. 62 d.]

Compotus Nicholai de Brembre et WilleZmi de Walworth',
Collectortim Custuma?^w et Svibsidiorum Ilegis in Portu London^
et in singulis portib?*s et locis abinde ex vt?-aqwe po?'te Thamisie vsqwe
Grauesende, et ibide??i, et exinde ex parte Essex' vsqwe Tillebury, et
ibidem, per \>ieue Regis pa.tens, datu?^ xxvij0 die Juk)', a,nno xlix°,
super hunc compotoi restitute??*, videlicet, de exitibus Custume et
Subsidij la.na.rum, pelh'w?^ \aiL\ikarum, et coriorum, a xxvjto die JuH/,
anno xlix°, ante quern diem Joha?wes de Bernes et p?'edz'c£us
Nicho/aus de Brembre, nuper Collec^o?'es ibidem, inde computarunt
alibi in hoc ~Rotulo, vsqwe xv. diem Nouembris proximum, per visum et
testimonium GalfrM Chaucer, ContrarofoiZafor^ eorundem Custum-
arum et Snbsidiorum T&egis ibidem ; quo die Rex, per brewe suum de
magno sigillo, ma,ndauit eisdem NichoZao et Wille/mo, qiiod Johanni
Warde et Roberto Girdelere, quos Rex per UYeras suas patent nuper
assignauit ad Custumas et Subsidia lanai^m, coriorum, et pellium
lanutarwm ibidem colligenf?a et leuanda, et ad opus suura recipiend«,
et ad sigillum quod dicitwr Coket in Portu p?-edicfo custodiendwm,
d^ctai sigillu?^ Regi^ et omwia alia officium illud tangencia et in
custod/a sua existencia liberent, et q^od se de officio illo vlte?*ius in
aliquo non intromittant ; videlicet, de vno q?*arterio anni et xxj
diebz^. A quo quidem xv° die Nouembris, anno xlix° ftniente, ijdem
Johannes et Robertus, Collectores ibide?«, sunt inde computaturi.

*****
Swmma Recepte, xj Millta Cix li. v s. ij d. q?*«. * * * Et

198 A.D. 1375-6. CHAUCER'S Wardship of John Sol ys. C's Annuities.

p?-efato Contrarotulatori pro vadiis suis per idem tempus, xj li. v s.
viij d. ob., iuxta ra.tam x li. per annum * * * Et quieti sunt.

93.
1375, Dec. 28. — Grant to Chaucer of the wardship of the heir of

John Solys, a tenant of the heir of Thomas de Ponynges, tenant

of the King in chief.

[Patent Roll, 49 Edw. III., p. 2, m. 4.]

Pro Galfr/<io\ Re.c, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, qwod de
Chaucer. / gracis, nosfra spec/ali concessinms dilecfo Armigero
nostro, G&lfrido Chaucer, custodiam quinq^e solida-
tarawi redditus cum pertinewcm in Solys, quas Joha?mes Solys,1
defunctus, tenuit die quo obiit de herede Thome de Ponynges,
defuncti, qui de nobis tenuit in capite, infra etatem et in custodia
nostrsi existente, per seruicium militare, et que per mortem predict
Johannis, et racione minoris etatis heredis sui, in manu nosfra
existunt : habendam, cum omnibus ad custodiam illarn spectantibws,
vsque ad legitimam etatem dicti heredis prefati Johawiis, vna cum
maritagio eiusdem heredis pred^cft Johannis absqwe disparagactowe,
sine aliquo pro dictis custodia redditus predicfi aut maritagio reddendo
vel soluendo : Ita semper qwod pro tempore quo prede'ctfus Galfn'dus
dict&m custodiam p?'ed^cii redditus sic haouerit, inueniat iuxta ratam
eiusdem prefato heredi predict Willelmi [sic] coinpetentem sustenta-
c^OTiem, et faciat et sustineat seruicia realia et onmia alia onera incum-
bencia redditui supradi'c^o. In emus etc. Teste Rege, apud Chil-
dernelangele, xxviij. die Decembm. Pe?- brewe de priuato sigillo.

94.

1376, May 31. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's and his icife's
annuities, to himself.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 50 Edw. III., m. 8.]

§ Die Sabbaft, xxxj° die May.

Galfndus \ Galfh'do Chaucer, vallecfo, cui Dominus ~Rex xx marcas
Chaucer. ] aimuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam percipiendas, p?'o
bono seruicio 2 per ipsum eidem Domino ~Regi impenso,
per kYeras suas patew/es nuper concessit : In denam's sibi liberate,
per assignac^owe??i sibi facfam isto die, in persolucionem x maicarum
sibi libemn&arum de \\uiusmodi certo suo, videZ^eif, de trnniw)
Pasche proximo p?-eterito, per brewe suum de liberate, inter man-
data de hoc iermino ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

1 There is no Inquisition on John Solys, but there is one on Thomas de
Ponynges, in 49 Edw. III. He had lands in Sussex, Kent, Suffolk, and Norfolk.
" Solys " seems to have been Soles Manor in the parish of Nonington, Kent, of
which Hasted gives a short account. He says the family of "de Solys" died
out soon after this date ; so Chaucer's ward may have been the last of that name.

2 " Per stfruicio " (sic) occurs here, by mistake.

1376. Another Grant to CHAUCER. Customs' Accounts. 199

Philippa, \ Philippe Chaucer, nuper vni de domicellis Caniere
Chaucer. J "Philippe, nuper Re^me AngU'e, cui Dominus Re.e x
marcas annwas ad Seaccarium ad totam vitam suam per-
cipiendas pro bono seruicio per ipsam eidem Philippe nuper impenso,
vel quousqwe pro statu suo aliter fuerit prouisuw, per lUeiss suas
patentes nuper concessit : In denarm sibi liberate, per manus
predict Gkdfrt'eZi, viri sui, in persoluce'cwem v maicarum sibi liber-
andanmi de htfUMmftft certo suo, videlicet, de ternrino Pasche
proximo preterite, per \>reue suu??i de libe?-a^e, inter manda^a de hoc
iermino ... ... ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

95.

1376, July 12. — Chaucer obtains a grant of the price of wool forfeited
by John Kent, of London, who had exported it to Dwdrecht
without paying custom.

[Patent Roll, 50 Edw. III., p. 1, m. 5. Godwin, App. xii.]

Pro Galfr/dO \ Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, quod

Chaucer. / de gra^'a nosfra spec/ali concessimws dilec^o armigero

nostTO, G&lfrido Chaucer, sexaginta et vndecim libras,

quatuor solidos, et sex denarios, de precio septem saccorw?^ et

dimidij, triu??i petrar?^^, et sex librarwm lane, nob^s forisfactsnum pro

eo quod Joha?2«es Kent, de Londoma, lanas illas vsqwe Durdraght

absqwe custuma seu subsidio nobis inde solutis, seu licencia inde a

nob& ha^ita, duxit, et quam quidem sum?wam ve?*sus ipswm Johaw-

neiai ex causa p?*edi'ctfa recupe?*auimw6', vt dicitw?" ; habendos de dono

nos^ro. In cuiws etc. Teste Rege, apud Westmonasterium, xij. die

JuhJ. Per ip*'Min Rege??^, nunciante Rogero de Bello Campo,

Camerar/o

96.

1376, Oct. 15. — Account of John Warde and Robert Girdelere,
Collectors of Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer,
from 2$th Sept. (sic),1 1375, to this date.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs. Roll 8, m. 62 d.]

Compotus Johcwwis Warde el Roberti Girdelere, quos Rex per
bre^e suum patens, d&ium xxx° die Septembm, anno xlix°, super
hunc compo^m restitutu??z, assignauit ad Custumam et Subsidiu/^
lanarw/^, coiiorum, et pellium IsaiMtarum in Portu Londome, et in
singulis portub?<5 et locis abinde ex vtraq?<e parte aque Thamisz'e vsqwe
Grauesend', et ib^em, et exinde ex parte Essex' vsq?«e Tillebury, et
ibidem, videlicet, de quolibet sacco lane de indigenis Is., et de alieni-
genis liij s. iiij d., et de quibuslibei CCxl pellibus lanutis de indigenis
1 s., et de alienigenis liij s. iiij d., et de quolibet lasto corij de indigenis
C s., et de alienigenis viijto marcas, leuanda et colligenda, et ad opus
Regis recipienda, et ad sigillu??i Regis quod dicitwr Cokett* in Portu

1 The previous Collectors had accounted down to 15 Nov. ; see No. 92.

200 A.D. 1376. CHAUCER'S and his Wife's Annuities paid.

predicto custodiendwm, quamdiu Regi placuerit, ita q?/od de exitibus
inde promnientibus Regi ad Scaccarmm suum respondeant, videlicet,
de exitibus eorimdem Custume et Subsidij Regis ibidem a festo
Sancti Michaels, anno xlix° finiente, ante quod festu?^ .NlchoZaus
Brembre et Wille/??ius de Walworth', Collectores eorzmdem Custum-
avum et Subsidiorum Regis inde computarunt inraediate supra, vsqwe
xvjm diem Octobris, anno 1°, quo die predicts Robertus cessauit
[ab 1] officio predict, et Rex eodem die, per aliud breue suum patens,
assignauit pred^ctfum Johcwrcem Warde et Ricardum de Northbury ad
predict, Custumam et Subsidium ibidem leuanda, colligenda, et
recipienda, et ad dictum sigillum Regis ibidem custodiendwm, per
visum et testimonium GalfHdi Chaucer, Contrarotulatoris eorwwdem
Custumarum et Snhsidiorum Regis ibidem, videlicet, de vno anno et
xvij diebws. A quo quidem xvj° die Octobn's, anno 1° finiente,
ijdem Johrmwes et Ricardus sunt inde computaturi.

* * * * *

Summa Recepte — xxv MilHa CCC li. ix s. iij d. q?«*.
*****

Et p?*efato Contrarotulatori pro vadm suis per idem tempus, x li.
ix s. ij d. ob. , iuxto ratani x li. per smnum. * * * Et quieti sunt.

97.

1376, Nov. 27.— Half-yearly payments of Chaucer'' s and his wife's
annuities, to himself.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 51 Edw. III., m. 19.]
§ Die Jouis, xxvij0 die Nouembm.

Galfridus \ Galfr^o Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex xx marcas znnuas

Chaucer. / ad Scoccarmm ad totam vitam suam percipiendos, pro

bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Re<7* impenso, vel

quousqz^e pro statu suo aliter fuerit p?*ouisum, per hYeras suas patentee

nuper concessit : In denam's sibi liberals, per manws p?*oprio6% in per-

soluc^owem eiusdem certi sui, videl/cet, termi?zo Michae/is proxw?zo

preterito, deduct^ vero xl s. sibi liberate de prestito super hmusmodi

certo suo, videlicet, xv° die Maij anno xlix°, pe?- brewe suu?ri de

liberate, inter mandata de hoc termi^o ... iiij li. xiij s. iiij d.

\ "Philippe Chaucer, vni domicellarwm Caniere
Chaucer. / nupe?1 Re^'ne Angk'e, cui Dominus Rex x mavcas annwos
ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, vel quousqwe pro
statu suo aliter fuerit prouisum, pe>- 1/teras suas patentee concess^ : In
denarm sibi liberates per nianws Galfr^' Chaucer, in persolucionem
v. marcarum sibi liberandarwm de hui?^mo^i ce?*to suo, videlicet, de
termino Mich«e/is proximo preterito, per brewe smim de liberate, inter

hoc termiwo ...... ...... Ixvj s. viij d.

A.D. 1376-7. CHAUCER going abroad in Edw. Ill's service. 201

98.

1376, Dec. 23. — Payment to Chaucer, going on the King's secret
affairs in the company of Sir John de Burlee, of 6Z. 13s. 4o\

[Issue Roll, Mich., 51 Edw. III., m. 25. Nicolas, note G.]
§ Die Martis, xxiij0 die Decembm.

Johannes \ Joharmi de Burlee, Militi, misso in secretis negociis Do-
de Burlee. / mim Regis, de quibws per ipg^m Domimim. Regem extitit
oneratus : In denarm sibi liberates, per manws proprias,
in persolucionem xx m&rcarum quas Dominus Rex sibi libe?'ari man-
dauit pro v&diis suis, per brewe de prmato sigillo, inter mandate de
hoc iermino ... ... ... ... ... xiij li. vj s. viij d.

GalfMus \ GalfnWo Chaucer, armigero Regis, misso ex p?*ecepto
Chaucer. / Domini Reg/* in comitiua predict! Johannis in eisdem se
cretis negociis ipsius Domini Regis : In denarm sibi libe-
ratis, per manws propiias, in perso\\icionem x marcarum quas Domimis
Rex sibi liberal niB.nd.auit pro v&diis suis, per bre?^e de pw'uato
sigillo in proxima particwla supe?*ius allegatwm ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

99.

1377, Feb. 12. — Letters of Protection are granted to Chaucer, to last
till Sept. 29, he being about to go abroad in the King's service.

[French Roll, 51 Edw. III., m. 7. Godwin, App. xiii.l
De pro- 1 GalfhWus Chaucer, armiger Regis, qui in obsequium
teccione. J Regis, in quibusdam secretis negociis "Regis, ad partes
transmarmcM de p?'ecepto Regis p^-ofecturw^ est, habet
litetas Regis de pj-oteccacwe, cum clausula ' Volume,' vsqwe ad festum
Sancti MichaeZis proximo futurwft duratums. Presentib?^, etc.
Teste Rege, apud Westmonasterium, xij. die February.

Per ipsum Rege?».

100.

1377, Feb. 17. — Payments to Sir Thomas Percy and Geoffrey
Chaucer, sent to Flanders on the King's secret affairs, on account
of their expenses.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 51 Edw. III., m. 29. Nicolas, note H.I
§ Die Martis, xvij° die

Thomas de 1 Thome de Percy, Militi, misso in nuncium in secret/s

Percy. J negociis Domini Regis ve?'sus partes Flandr/e : In

denanVs sibi liberates, per manws Joharmis Godard, super

expens/5 suis, per brewe de priuato sigillo, inter mandate de hoc

iermino ... ... ... ... xxxiij li. vj s. viij d. ; vnde

Respon debit.

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 14

202 A.D. 1377-8. CHAUCER'S Costs on Ms Journeys to Paris, etc.

GalfnWws ( GalfriWo Chaucer, Armigero Regis, misso in consi^/lem
Chaucer. \ nuncmw in secret^ negocws Do/nini Regz's versus easdew
pastes Flandrte : In denam's sibi liberates per manws
propiias super expensis suis, per brewe de priuato sigillo in proxiwa
particwla superius allegattew ... ... ... xli.; vnde

Respondebit.1

101.

1377, Feb. 17 — June 26. — Chaucer's enrolled Account for Jtis two

Journeys to Paris, Montreuil, and elseivltere.

[Exchequer L. T. R. Foreign Accounts, 3 Ric. II., forula D, dorse.]
DE KECEPTIS, VAD/JS, ET EXPENSES PEOFICISCENDO IN DUOBU5 VIAG77.5

p^cns IN NUNCIO REG/S T&DWARDI TERCIJ VERSUS PARTS, MON-
STROILL', ET ALIBI ANNO LJ° REGIS ~&DWARDI TERCIJ.

YER GALFK/D^/M [CHAUCER].

COMPOTUS Galfr/Wi Chaucer, scutiferi, de receptis, vad//s, et
expense suis proficiscendo in duob?/s viagiis per ipimm nuper f«c^is
in nunc/o Regis JZdwardi te?fcij, aui Reg^ hui?w, ad paries exteras,
scilicet, versus Parys', Monstroill', et alibi, anno d*crt aui lj°, pe?1 bre?te
Regw limus de priuato sigillo datww xxvj*0 die lt?ebmarij anno tercio,
Thesaurario et Iti&Tombus hum* Scaccarij direcium, quod est inter
Communla de iermmo Pasche eodem anno ; per quod brewe Rex
mandauit eisdein Thesaurario et Barom'fow, quod computent cum
prefato Galfr/V7o, per sacmnientum suum, de diue?%st's viagtV« per
ip^um nuper f«c£is in dicto obsequio eiusdem aui, eundo in nuncio suo
ad partes predictas causa certomw negociorum dicti aui t&ngencium
tractatus pacis, ac eciam de denarm1 per ipsum. G&lfriduin. receptis,
causis p?-ed/c#is ; faciendo eidem Galfndo debitam allocac/o?iem pro
tenipore quo extitit in obsequio dicti aui in viagws suprodtc^is, a
diebMs quibws idem GalfriV7us recessit de London ia aut a d-icto
auo super eisdem viagiis, vsq^e ad suos reditus ad ipswn auu?« vel ad
d/c/am Ciuiiateni London^'e, de talib?/s v&dus per diem, vsqz^e ad
su?>imas denariorwm per ips?mi Galfr/Wum veceptas vel infra, qualia
aliis scutiferi eiusdem status similitev eundo in nuncio dicti aui ad
di'c^as paries transmarmas tenipore suo allocata extiterunt, vnacu?^
cusiubz^ rac/onabilibz^ p?*o passag^o ipsius Galfr/rii, et repassage'o
maris ; videlicet, de huiusmodi Teceptis, v&diis, et expensis, vt infra.

Recepta. (Prestita trahuntwr.) — Idem leddit wmpotum de x. li.
receptis de Thesaufario et Camerarm ad Heceptam Scaccarij xvij° die
Februan)', termiwo MichaeZis, anno dicti aui lj°, super expenses ipsius
GalfrtWi missi in secretis negociis di'ctfi aui versus p«rtes Flandiie,
sicut continetur in ~Rotulo secundo Regis "Ricardi secundi in Londonia,2
et eciam in quadam cedilla de particttlis hie in Thesaurario liberata.

1 On 18 Feb. payments were made to John, Bishop of Hereford, and others,
who were sent to Flanders " to treat of peace between the Lord the King and
his adversary of France." 2 See No. 143.

CHAUCER'S Journeys abroad. Froissart on Peace-negotiations. 203

Et de xxvj. li. xiij. s. iiij. d. receptis de eisdem The&aurario et Came-
TSiriis ad Ilvceptam predictam. xxx° die Aprils, iermino Pasche, dicto
anno lj°, super vadt« ip#nis GalfriWi, similiter missi in secretis nego-
ciis dicti aui versus partes Francae, sictit continetur iloidem.

Summa Ifoceptorum — xxxvj. li. xiij. s. iiij. d.

Expense. — Idem compute in vadiis suis proficiscendo in nuncio
Rege# versus partes Parys' et Monstroill', a xvij° die Yebruarij anno
predicti aui lj°, quo die iter smim arripuit de Londoraa versus easdem
p^rtes, vsqwe xxv. diem Marcij proximo seq?«en#e?w, quo die rediit
Londontotti, scilicet, eundo, morando, et redeundo, per xxxvij dies,
vtroqwe die computato — xxiiij. li. xiij. s. iiij. d., c&piente per diem
xiij. s. iiij. d., per predictum. brewe Reg/5 annotate* supm in titwlo
huiwtf compotfi, et eciam in dicta cedilla de partictdis. Etin passagio
et repassagio suo, homirmm et equorum auor-um — xxxiij. s. iiij. d., per
idem brewe Regis, sicut continetur ibzWem. Et in vadiis dicti Galfre di
similiter proficiscendo in dicto nuncio Reg?"s versus p«rtes Franc/e inter
xxxm diem ApriKs anno di'c^i aui lj° et xxvj. diem Juny proximo
sequentem, scil/cet, eundo, morando, et redeundo, per xiiij. dies —
ix.li. vj. s. viij. d.,'c&pientis per diem vt supr«, per idem brei^e Reg/s,
sicw-^ continetur ibidem, et sicut huiusmodi v&dia al[l]ocant?*r eidem
Galfr^Wo in compoto suo de consiwili viagio Rotulo xlvij0, ~Rottdo
Gompotorwn. Et in passagio et repassagio suo, hommwn et equomra
BVLOium — xx. s., per idem brewe Regis1, sicwtf coutinetur iloidem.
Summa JZxpensarum — xxxvj. li. xiij. s. iiij. d.

-' Et eqwe.

102.

1377, Feb. to June. — Froissart' s story of the negotiations at
Montreuil for peace between England and France^ and for the
marriage of Prince Richard to a French Princess ; in which
Chaucer was employed by Edward III.

[Chroniques de Sire Jean Froissart, ed. Buchon, liv. i., chap. 385.]
Environ le quareme,1 se fit un secret traite entre les Anglois et les
Fran9ois ; et durent les Anglois porter leur traite en Angleterre et
les Frangois en France, et chacun devers son seigneur le roi; et
devoient retourner, ou autres commis que le roi renvoyeroit, a
Montreuil sur Mer ; et sur eel etat furent les treves ralongees jusques
au premier jour de mai. Si en allerent les Anglois en Angleterre, et
les Frangois revinrent en France, et rapporterent leur traite*, et
recorderent sur quel etat ils s'etoient partis Tun de 1'autre. Si furent
envoyes a Montreuil sur Mer, du cote des Frangois, le sire de Coucy,
le sire de la Riviere, messire Nicolas Bracque et Nicolas le Mercier ;
et du c6te des Anglois, messire Guichart d' Angle, messire Richard

1 The first day in Lent, in 1377, was llth February, and Easter Sunday
was 29th March. Johnes translates the first three words, w about Shrovetide "
{10th February).

204 1377. CHAUCER sent to France on the Kiiufs affairs.

Sturi et Joffroi Chaucier;1 et parlementcrent cils seigneurs et ces
parties grand temps sur le mariage du jovene Richard, fils du prince
[de Galles], et mademoiselle Marie, fille du roi de France, et
revinrent arriere en Angleterre et rapporterent leur traite ; et aussi
les Francis en France ; et furent les treves ralongees d'un mois.2

*****
A ces parlements et secrets traites qui furent assignes en la ville
de Montreuil, furent envoyes, de par le roi de France, le sire de
Coucy et messire Guillaume de Dormans, chancelier de France. Si
s'en vinrent tenir a Montreuil. De la partie des Anglois furent
envoyes a Calais le comte de Salsiberi [sic], messire Guichart d' Angle,
1'eveque d'Herford et 1'eveque de Saint-David, chancelier d' Angle
terre.3 Et etoient la les traiteurs qui alloient de 1'un a 1'autre, et
qui portoient les traites, 1'archeveque de Ravenne et 1'eveque de
Carpentras.4 Et furent toutdis leur parlement et leur traite sur le

1 The English commissioners named in the royal commission, dated 20th
February, 1377, did not include Chaucer, though he was sent to France only a
few days before. They were the Bishop of Hereford, John, Lord Cobham, Sir
John Montagu, banneret, and Master John Shepeye, doctor in laws. They were
empowered to treat for peace with "our adversary of France," and to prorogue
the existing truce. — French Roll, 51 Edw. III. m. 7. Rymer, last edition,
vol. iii. pt. ii. p. 1073.

2 Les Chroniques de France confirment ce temoignage. Suivant elles les
treves furent eloignees de termes, jusqu'a la Nativite de saint Jean-Baptiste. —
J. A. C. Buchon.'

3 The second royal commission, dated 26th April, 1377, was directed to the
Bishop of St. David's, Chancellor, the Bishop of Hereford, William de Montagu,
Earl of Salisbury, Sir Robert de Asheton, the King's Chamberlain, Sir Guychard
d'Angle, banneret, Sir Aubrey de Veer, Sir Hugh de Segrave, knights, Master
Walter Skirlawe, Dean of St. Martin's le Grand, London, and Master John de
Shepeye, doctors in laws. They, like the former commissioners, were em
powered to treat for the settlement of all disputes with Charles of France.
Here again Chaucer is not mentioned, though he was once more sent to France
at this very time. — French Roll, 51 Edw. III. m. 3. Rymer, as above, p. 1076 ;
and first edition, vii. 143.

There were three later commissions by Richard II., all dated 16th January,
1378, to Guichard d'Angle, Earl of Huntingdon, Sir Hugh Segrave, and Master
Walter Skirlawe. By the first, they were empowered to negociate a truce with
Charles of France ; by the second, to treat for a peace [at Bruges] ; and by the
third, to treat for a marriage between King Richard and the daughter of Charles,
who is never called "King" in these documents. — French Roll, 1 Ric. II.,
p. 1, m. 12 (two), 13. Rymer, vii. 183, 184. The second commission (for
peace) is not printed in Rymer. Chaucer was not included in any of these
commissions, as stated by Prof. Skeat, but he was again sent abroad on this
occasion, according to a later record, No. 143. Froissart does not mention these
further negociations apparently ; probably he alludes to them, especially to the
proposed marriage, out of place, in his account of what occurred in February
and March 1377, as suggested by Nicolas ; on which there are some remarks in
Prof. Skeat's Life, p. xxix.

The original accounts of the expenses of many of these commissioners are
extant among the Exchequer Accounts, under the head of Nitncii, but Chaucer's
accounts are not there. The enrolments of their accounts are to be found
among the Foreign Accounts.

4 The latter was at this time Archbishop of Rouen. — Buchon. The two
Archbishops were the Papal Nuncios. — Rymer, vii. 184.

CHAUCER'S Reward for services abroad. His Letters of Protection. 205

mariage devant dit, et offroient les Frai^ois, avec leur dame fille du
roi de France, douze cites au royaurne de France ; c'est a entendre en
la duche d'Acquitaine ; mais ils vouloient voir Calais abattu. Si se
derompirent cils parlements et cil traite sans rien faire ; car oncques,
pour chose que les traiteurs S9ussent dire, prier ni requerir, ni
remontrer, ces parties ne se vouhent ni oserent oncques assegnrer sur
certaine place entre la ville de Montreuil et Calais pour iceux
comparoir Tun devant 1'autre. Si demeurerent les choses ainsi, et ne
furent les treves plus ralongees, mais la guerre renouvelee, et
retournerent les Fra^ois en France.1

103.

1377, April 11. — The King gives Chaucer a reioard for his services in
several voyages abroad.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 51 Edw. III., m. 2. Nicolas, note I.]
§ Die Sabb«tfi, xj° die Aprilis.

GalfnWus 1 GalfrvWo Chaucer, Armigero Eegis, in denim's se7;i
Chaucer, j liberate, per mam^ proprias, in persolucionem xxli., quas
Dominus Rex sibi liberal mandauit de dono suo, pro
regardo suo, causa diuersorw?>i viagionm per ipsum Q&lfridum.
factotum, eundo ad diuersas partes transmarinas, ex p?-ecepto
Domini Regis, in obsequio ipsius Domini Rer/^s-, per diuersas vices,
per brewe de p?*uiato sigillo hoc tcrmino ... ... ... xx 1.

104.

1377, April 28. — Letters of Protection are again granted to Chaucer,
to last till Aug. 1, he being about to go abroad in the King's
service.

[French Roll, 51 Edw. III., m. 5. Godwin, App. xiv.J
De pro- \ Galfrt^us Chaucer, qui in obsequiuw nostrum ad partes-
tecci"o?ie. J t?-ansmam&rt$ de precepto nosfro p?«ofecturws est,

hVeras Regis de p?*otecc/o7ie, cwn clausula
vsqwe ad festu?w Sancti Petri Aduincula proximo futurw??i duraturas.
Presentib^w, etc. Teste Rege, apud Wesimonasterium, xxviij. die-
Aprilis. Per Consilimn.

105.

1377, April 30. — Pat/ment on account to Chaucer, sent to France on
the King's secret affairs.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 51 Edw. III., m. 6. Nicolas, note I.]

1 These passages are much abbreviated in Johnes's translation, vol. ii. p. 178.
He renders " Joffroi Chancier" as " Sir Oeoff'ry Chaucer." Lord Berners, in his
translation, has "Geffray Chaucer" ; vol. i. p. 482 (ed. 1812).

206 1377. c. sent to France, $ made Controller of Customs.

§ Die Jouis, xxx° die Aprilis.

GalfftVZus \ GalfnWo Chaucer, Armigero Regis, misso in jmncium
Chaucer. J in secret^ negocm* Domini "Regis versus paries Francae :
In denariis sibi liberates, per manws proprias, super
vadm suis, per brewe de prmato sigillo hoc ternmao

xx vj li. xiij s.1 iiij d. ; vnde
Eespondebit.

106.

1377, April. — The Earl of Salisbury and others, including Chaucer,
are sent on an embassy to France.

[John Stow's Amiales, ed. Howes, p. 276.]

1377. (Edward III.)

The seventeenth of April died the Lady Mary of S. Paule,
Countesse of Pembroke, a woman of singuler example. * * *
About the same time the Earle of Salisbury and Sir Richard
Anglisison,2 a Poyton, the Bishop of Saint Dauids, the Bishop of
Hereford, Geffrey Chaucer, (the famous Poet of England,) and
other were sent into Fraunce to treate a peace, or at the least a truce
for two yeere or more, but they could not obtaine any longer truce,
then for one moneth, which they utterly refused. Whereupon they
stayed in Fraunce about these things. . . . The messengers
returned into England, and brought nothing backe with them, but
rumor and warre.

107.

1377, June 22. — The new King grants (Jhaucer the office of Controller
of the Customs.

[Patent Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 27.]

De Contrarotula- 1 "Rex, Qmnib-us ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis,
tore Cuatumarwwt. J quod concessiimi* dilecfo nobis Galfmto Chaucer
officium Contrarotulatoris Custume et Subsidy
lanarum, corioium, et pelliim lanutarww in Portu Londom'e,ha&en-
dum q?iMindiu nobis placuerit, percipiendo in ofificio illo tantuni
quantum alij Contrarotulatores Custume et Subsidij huiusmodi in
Portu pred^cfo hactenus pe/'cipe?'e consueuerunt : Ita quod idem
GalfrtWus rotulos suos dictum officium tangentes manu sua pj-opria
scribat, et continue moretwr ibidem, et om?«a que ad officium illud
pertinent in propria pe?\sona sua et non per substitutes faciat et
exequat?/r, et quod alte/-a pars sigilli nostri, quod dicitw?' Coket,
in custodia ipsius GalfreWi remaneat, qtiamdiu officium h«Z>uerit
Bupradictum. In emus etc. Teste Rege, apud Wesimonasterium,
xxij. die Junij.

Per billam Thesaurarij.
[Foiir other persons had similar appointments in other ports, on the same day.]

1 Not xij s., as in Nicolas.

2 Qu. Sir Guichard d' Angle. See ante, and Prof. Skeat's Life, p. xxx.

E. de Staplt'gatc's Petition to act as Butler at Ric. II.' s Coronation. 207

108.

1377, July 9. — Petition of Edmund, son and heir of Edmund de
Staplegate, touching his claim to exercise the office of Butler at
the Coronation of Richard the Second, by tenure of the Manor of
Bihington in Kent ; in which he says that he had paid Chaucer
(Geffray Chausyer)for his wardship and marriage <£104.1

[Close Roll, 1 Ric. II., m. 45. Godwin, App. xv.]

PROCESSUS FACTUS AD CoRONAcrchVEM DOMINI REGIS ANGLIE, RICARDI
SECUNDI POST CONQUESTUA/, ANNO REGNI sui PRIMO.

Decedente, de nutu su/>mii Preceptoris, felicissimo, strenuo, et
potent! Rege Angl/e et Franc^c, T)omino Edwardo kercio post
Conquestim, vicesimo primo die niensis Junij, anno Domini Millesimo
trescentesinio septuagesimo septinio, et anno regni sui quinquagesimo
prirao, successit ei Rex Ricardus secMwdus, nlius Edwardi, nupcr
Priucipis Wall/e, primogeniti dicti Regis Edwardi ; et cum tractaretwr
et prouisum fuisset de solempniis Coronac/o/ds ipsius Regis Ricwvfi,
die Jouis in crastino Translacio/ds Heati Swithuni tune proximo
sequente, celebrandw :

OFFICIA SENESCALL^ AC GERENDI PRINCIPALEM GLADIUM DOMINI REGIS

ET SC1NDENDJ CORAM R£«£ DIE CORONAC/OMS.2

Jolirm/zes, Rex Castelle et Legionis, Dux Lancastn'e, coram d/c/o
Domino Rege Ric«/'rfo et Consilio suo comparens, clamauit, vt Comes
Leycestne, officiu/M 8enescalcie Angk'e et vt Dux Lancastr/e, ad
gerend?<??i principalem gladiu??i Domini Regis, vocatu;^ f Curtana,'
die Coronac/oTiis eiusdem Regis ; et, vt Comes Lincoln/e, ad scinden-
dum et ad secand?Mi coram ipso Domino Rege sedente ad mensam
dicto die Coronac/o?ns. Et quia, facts, diligenti examinac^'owe coram
p<??*itis de Consilio Regis de premissis, satis constabat eidem
Consilio, quod ad ipswm Ducem, tanq?^am tenentem per legom
Angl/e post mortem Blanchie, quondam vxoris sue, pc?'tiiiuit officia
predicts,, prout sup^rius clamabat, exce?*cere, consideratu???. fuit per
ip5?^m Regem et Consiliuwi SUU?M ipredichfm, quod idem Dux officia
predicts, per se et sufficientes deputatos snos, faceret et excerceret, et
feoda sibi debita in hac parte optineret : [etc.] * * *

Et memoranda??, qwod prefatus Dux, die Jouis proximo ante
Coronacm/dem predictum, sedebat de p?*ecepto Regis, tanquam Sene-
scaileM AngliV5, in Alba Aula regij Palacij Westmowcwtert/, p?*ope
Capellam regalem, et inquirebat diligent^* que et qualia officia seu
feoda dicto die per quoscumq^e facienda vel optinend^ fuerant ; et
cum hoc eodem die Jouis publice proclamari fecit, quod tarn Magnates

1 King Richard was crowned Thursday, 16 July, 1377. This petition was
heard the Thursday previous. — W. D. S.

2 This heading and the one below, but not the one above, are written in the
margin of the roll, and do not form part of the text.

208 1377. Staplegafe had paid CHAUCER £104 for his Wardship.

quam alij, qui alia1 officia ad Coronac/ottem prah'c/am facere, seu
leoda aliqua optinere, clamare vellent, billas et petic-t'ones suas clamea
sua continentes, coram ipso Senescallo, vel eius in hac parte locuw
tenentibws, proferri facerent indilate. Super quo, diuersa officia et
f eoda, tarn per peticiowes qz^am oretenus, coram ipso Seuescallo exacta
et vendicata extiterunt, in forma que subsequitwr.

[Inter alia :]
~PRO ~RlCARDO, COMITE ARUNDELLJE.

Item predictus Comes ArundelKe porrexit in Cim'a quandam
aliam petic/onem, in hec verba : —

" Al Roi de Castelle et de Lyons, Due de Lancastre, et Senesehall'
Dengleterre, supplie Richard Counte Darundell' et de Surreie, de lui
receiure affaire son office de Chief Butiler, quel lui appartient de droit
pur le Counte Darundell', receiuant les feez ent duez."

Et super hoc quidam Edmundus, fih'ws et heres Edmundi de
Stapelgate, exhibuit quandam aliam peticionem, sub hac forma : —

"A mon treshonwe Seigneur le Roi de Castelle et de Lyon', Due
de Lancastre et Seneschal Denglete?'re, monstre Esmond', filz et heir
Esmond' Stablegate, qe come le dit Esmond' tient de nostre Seignur
le Roi en chief le Manoir de Bilsynton' en le Counte de Kent,
par les seruices destre Botiller de nosfre Seignur le Roi a sa
coronement, come pleinement appiert en le liure des fees de serianties
en lescheqer nostve Seignur le Roi ; et a cause qe le dit Esmond' le
pier morust seisi de mesme le Manoir en son demesne come de fee,
mesme cest Esmond' le fitz adonqes esteant deinz age, nostre Seignur
le Roi, laiel nostre Seignur le Roi qore est, seisit le dit Esmond' le
fitz en sa garde, par cause qe fuist troue en mesme le liuere qe le
dit Manoir fuist tenuz par an par tieux seruices, et prist les profitz
de mesme le Manoir par quatre anz come de sa garde, et puis com-
mist la dite garde oue le mariage de dit Esmond' le fitz a Geffray
Chausyer, pur quele garde et mariage le dit Esmond' le fitz paia au
dit Geffray Cent et quatre liures. Par quoi le dit Esmond' le fitz soi
profre de faire le dit office de Botiller, et prie qil a ce soit receu,
prenant les fees au dit office auncienement duez et custumables."

Intellects autem peticionibus pred/c^is, auditisq?«e qMamplurHms
recordia, mcionibus, et euidenciis, tarn pro prefato Comite q?«am pro
predicto Edmundo, Curie monstratis, videbatwr Curie dictum nego-
cium, propter multiplicactOTiem negocior?«wi et temporis breuitate??i
ante pre&ict&m. Coronaciofiem, finaliter discuti non posse; et eo pre-
textu, necnon pro eo qiiod per recordu??i de Scaccario est compertum,
quod antecessores ips'uis Comitis, postqz^am dictum Mane/'iuwi de
Bilsyngton' ab eis alienatu??i extitit^ fuerunt in possessione d^'cft officij
temporibws Iminsmodi Coronacionu??!, et non est compertu??i nee
allegatu??i pro predicto Edmundo, quod aliquis antecessor?/??i siiorum

1 Sic ; qu. alujua.

1377. Richard de Beverlee's Account of Payments to CHAUCER. 209

aliquo tempore fecit officiuw predJctum, dictum fuit p?-efato Comiti,
quod ipse officium predictum. ad presentem Coronac/owem faceret, et
feoda debita perciperet : iure ipsius Edmundi [et alioraw]1 quo-
Yumcnmque in omnibus semper saluo. Et sic idem Comes officiuw
illud pe?*fecit.2

109.

1377, July 26. — Extracts from the Account of Richard de Beverlee,
showing the payments to Chaucer for his robes as 'scut if er Regis,'
and for his wine pension, from 25 Nov. 1376 to this date.

[Exchequer Q. K. Wardrobe and Household Accounts, *f&.] *

PARTICULK Compel Ricardi de Beuerlee, nuper Custodis Garde-
robe Hospicij Reg/s HLdioardi tercij, aui Reg& hums, de leceptis,
tib0racionibu#, et expens/5 in eadem Garderoba f«c#is a xxvto die
Nouembm anno dt'ctfi aui 1° finiente — quo die dictum officium com-
missuw fuit eidem Hicardo per ipsum auum oretenus — vsqwe xxjm
diem Juny proximum sequent em, quo die idem aims obiit;4 et ab
eodem xxj° die Juny vsqwe xxvj111"' diem July proximum sequentem,
per bre?^e Regw hui?/# de priuato sigillo d&ium xxx° die Jun//, anno
tercio, Thesaurario et Baronib?^" hui?^? Scacca?'ij dwectum, quod est
inter Commttiiia de termino Sancte Trinitatis eodem anno : per quod
breue Rex mandauit eisdem Thesaurario et Baronibws, quod in
compo^o quern idem Ric«?fc?us coram eis in eodem Scaccario causa
dfct'i officij sui est redditurus, per sacramentum et testimom'wm
Wille//?ii Strete, tune Contrarotulatoris Hospici}' predict^ expense
lacionMliter per ipsos ~Ricardum et Willelmum facte tarn circa corpus
et funeral^ dicti aui, qi^am super continuanci'aw eiusdem Hospicij
per cerium tempus post mortem eiusdem aui, vsqwe ptvdtctum xxvjtuw
diem July, eodem die computato, dicfo Iticardo allocari facerent,
et per visum et testifnom'um predict Contrarotulatoris ; videlicet, de
medietate vnius anni et Ixij

1 The record is indistinct here.

2 Testa de Nevill, p. 2166, under the head of " Serjeanties in Kent
arrented temp. Hen. III.," has this entry : —

" The Serjeanty of Bilsington, which was formerly of the Earl of Arundel, for
which he ought to be the Butler of the Lord the King, is alienated in part, by
parcels."

There seems to be nothing about this in the Book of Aids, 20 Edw. III.

3 A parchment book of forty leaves.

4 On leaf 4, d. of this Account, the Keeper of the Wardrobe of the House
hold acknowledges the receipt of £1447 for the Funeral expenses of Edward
III., Sunday, the 5th of July, being noted as ' Dies Sepulture.' Another entry
shows that Adam Hertyngdon, clerk of the works at Windsor Castle, sent up
for the household five hogsheads of verjuice, the produce of the Windsor vine
yard. I have not found any similar entry during Chaucer's clerk-of-the-works
period, but it seems to have been usual for the clerk of the works for the time
being to send up from Windsor an annual supply of this wine. — W. D. S.

210 1377. Payments to CHAUCER for his Roles $ Wine Pensions.

[f. «.] Anno p/ymo — Beuerlee.

§ Debentw diuersis creditoribws pro feod/s, vadijs, et robis : —

§ Alano de BuxhuH', iniliti ... ... viij li. xiijs. iiij d.

§ Rica>v#o Sturry, militi ... ... ... viij li. xiij s. iiij d.

§ Petro de Breux, militi ... ... ... viij li. xiij s. iiij d.

§ Johanni Foxle, militi ... ... .^ xxxvj s. xj d. ob.

§ Johanni Holand' . . . ... ... ... xls.

§ Galfr/do Chaucer .... xls.

§ Willelmo Gonienez ... ... ... xl s.

§ Elmingo Leget ... ... ... ... xlvj s. viij d.

[And 18 others.]

[f- si.] FEOD/I ET ROBE.

§ Johanni de Ipre, Senescallo Ilospic*/ Dotnini Regw, pro feodo suo
pro seisona Pasche1 — vj li. xiij s. iiij d

Johanni de Holand', Johanni Herlyng', Johanni Bjuerle, Waltero
Walssh', Waltero Whithors, Petro de Cornubia, Willelmo Archebald',
Johanni Joce, Willelmo de Risceby junior i, Roberto de Newton',
Roberto Gorby, Johanni Fastolf, N"icho/«o Dabrichcourt, Johanni
de Salisbury, Thome Hauteyn, Hugoni Cheyne, Galfr/Wo Chaucer,
Johmmi Appulby, Galfr^o Steuecle, Simowi de Burgh', Johanni de
Thorp', Thome Hertfordyngbury, Hugo/M Lyngeyn, Ricart^o Torpe?*le,
Johanni atte Welle, Willelmo Purcels, Johanni de Assh', Ricardo
de Armis, T&icardo Markham, Johanni Lech', Roberto de Louth',
Johanni Belyuall', Waltero Tirell', Petro de Preston', Henr/co Almayn,
Rogero Mareschall',Gilberto Talbot, Georgi'o Felbrugg', Thome Stanes,
TH&dulpho Barry, Johanni Beauchrmip, Johanni Dmys, Johanni
Iselham, Roberto Vrsewyk', Petro Roos, Rogero Cheyne, Mcho/ao
Braithweite, Johanni Archebald', WilleZmo Adderbury, Johanni Che-
uall', Rogero Straunge, Willelmo Gomenez, Johanni Roos, Willelmo
Graistok', Johatmi van Hale, Franco van Hale, Laurenc/o Hauberk',
Corneh'o de Ybernia, Willelmo de York', Johanni Goderich' filio,
Johanni Moyne, WilleZmo Lisle, et Johimwi Torell', — Scutiferis' Re^is ;
Edmundo Chesthunt. Colynet Fauconer, et Johanni Pauele, — Fal-
conariis T&egis ; cuiltoet Qomm pro robfc's suis jQmalibus et estiuah'te,
xl s. — Cxxxij li.
[f- 33, d.j DONA.

§ Petronille Pope, passanU familia^i Re:;is vlt?-a aqwam Thamis/e
apud Dachet, de dono ipsius Regi's ap^d Wyndesore, xxv. die April/s
— vj s. viij d

GalfnWo Chaucer, percipient^ per diem vna?^ Ishgenam vini Vascome
ad totam vit&m suani, pro huiusmodi lagen« a xiiij. die Octobrw anno
lmo vsqwe xxj. die?^ Junij proximum sequente??i anno ljmo, vtroqwe die

1 29th March was the date of Easter-day in 1377.— W. D. S.

1377. CHAUCER surveys the Collectors of Customs1 accounts. 211

computafo, per CClj dies, faciente j dolium, x sextaria, j picher/ow,
preciuw doly vt supra, [p^r medium x Cxix s. ij d.] — vij li. ij s. vj d. ob.

f Alicie Perers, de cons/mili dono eiusdem Dowitni

Reg/6\ iiij doh'a vini Vascome, preciuw doli/ vt supra, — xxiij li. xvj s.
viij d. Eidem Alicie, de consiro/li dono eiusdem Domini Reg/s, j
pipa vini Renes, coutinens vj aim., viij ferend. And', pra:iu?» aim.
xxxviij s. — xij li. viij d.2 . . .

[f. 37.] PRESTITA.

Eidem [Galfrido teuton, nuper Pincerne Regis Edwardi tercij,] de
prestito, in precio vniws dolij, x sextariomm, j pichere vini Vascom'e
consiw/iite/' liberate Oalfh'dto Chaucer — vij li. ij s. vj d. ob.

110.

1377, Aug. 24. — Account of John Warde and Richard Northbury,
Collectors of Customs awl Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer,
from 15th Oct. 1376, to this date. Payment of SL lls. 4d. to
Chaucer, his "weighs" as Controller being 1QL a year.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 8, m. 62 d.]

COMPOTUS Johannis Warde et Ricardfi Northbury, Collectomm
Oustume et Subsidij predictorum9 in Portu et locis pmU'c#is, per
breue Regis, aui Regis hums, patens, datum xvj° die Octobm anno
dicti aui 1°, super hunc compotum restitutu?^ ; videlicet, de exitibus
eprund&m. Custume et Subsidij Regis ibidem, ab eodem xvj° die
Octobris' anno eiusdem aui 1° finiente, ante quern diem idem Johwwes
et R:>bertus Girdelere inde computarunt inmediate supra,3 vsqwe xxjm
diem Junij proximo sequentem, quo die idem auus obiit, et ab eodem
xxj° die Junij anno Regis huius p?^'mo, per aliud breue suum patens,
datum xxij° die Junij, dicto anno primo, super hunc compotum
restitut?^??., vsqite xxiiij1" diem Augusti proximo sequentem, quo die
Rex per breue suum precepit p?'efatis Jobonni et Ricarefo, qwod
Nicho/ao Brembre et Johanni Philipot, quos Rex assignauit ad d^'c^a
Custumawi et Subsidmm in Portu et locis predz'ctfis ad opus Regis
leuandtf, colligenda, et recipienda, sigillu??z Regis quod dicitwr Cokett',
in Portu p?'ed/cfo deputato, liberent, et se de officio predicto vlte?*ius
non intromittant ; per visum et testimoniu?^ GalfnWi Chaucer,
Contrarotulatoris eorundem Custume et Subsidij Regis ibidem,
scil'tfet, de tribws q^arterijs anni et xxxix diebws. A quo quidem
xxiiijto die Augusti, dicto anno primo, ijdem Nicho/rais et Jobannes
Philipot, Collectors ibidem, sunt inde computaturi.

* * * *

1 " Per medium " = on the average.

2 The whole of this passage from the words ' Galfrido Chaucer ' is cancelled,
and there is a marginal note thus : —

' DifUkllooantuT pro warrant!* deficientlbus pro istis p«rtic?/lis, et causa, quia
ante tempwf compoti p^r xlij dies.' — W. D. S. 3 See No. 96.

212 1377. CHAUCER'S Annuity from John of Gaunt.

Summa Recepte — xv Millm Cxliij li. v d. qua.

* * # *

Et prefato Contrarotulatori, pro vadm' suis per idem tenipus, viij li.
xj s. iiij d., iuxta ratam xli. per &m\um. * * * Et
decent Dlxv li. vj s. x d. qwa. Et respondent in Rotulo lj°, in Item
Londoma.1

111.

1377, Sept. 29. — Duchy Receiver's Account for one year ending at
this date, showing two half-yearly payments to Chaucer of John
of Gaunt' s annuity due at Michaelmas 1376 and Easter 1377.

[Duchy of Lancaster, Accounts (various), \. Nicolas, note F. Forewords,

pp. 145—148.]

COMPOTUS -Domini WilleZwi de Bughbrigg', general^ Receptoris
Joha/mis, Regis Castelle et Legioiiis, Due/* Lancorfrfe, de omnibus
receptis suis, solucio??lb2is, et expend, a festo Sanctl Michael/*, anno
regni ^egis Edwardi tercij post Conquestum Anglte quinquagesimo,
vsque idem festum, anno regni "Regis Ricardi secundi post Con-
questum prmio, per vmm annu??i integr^m.

* * * *
Annuitates de terminis : —

Michaefts, anno quinquag«tmo.

In denarii solutw Galfrido Chaucer, pro annuitate sua sibi debita,
pro termino Micho^/is, anno quinquagesimo — Cs. * * *
per liter&s Domt'ni de warra^o, datas apud Sauuoye, xviij. die
Octobris, anno lmo, et v acquietancias snpradictorum,2 etc., super hunc
compotum liberates.

* * * *
Pasche, anno ljmo.

In denanY* solutts * * * Galfrido Chaucer, pro annuitate sua,
pro eodeni termmo, per litexas Dowwni de warra/^o, datax apud
Sauuoye, xij. die Junl/, anno ljmo, et &c<\viietanciam ip^ius Galfridi
super hurac compotum liberatom — C s.3

112.

1377, Sept. 29 — 1378, Sept. 29. — Chaucer is charged witli a balance
of ISs. 9d. for wages in the King's Household overpaid.
[Pipe Roll, 1 Ric. II.]

1 There is nothing about Chaucer in the rest of this account, which is in
Pipe Roll, 51 Edw. III. a Five annuitants in all.

3 Ladies Philippa and Elizabeth of Lancaster, and Katherine Swynford, their
mistress (magistrcss'}, are mentioned several times in this account ; see extracts
in the Forewords, as above. There are two other Duchy Receivers' Accounts
from March 14 to Jan. 15 Ric. II., 1391—1392, and from Feb. 15 to Feb. 16
Ric. II., 1392—1393, showing payments made to many pursons by order of John
of Gaunt, but Chaucer's name does not occur among them.

1377-8. CHAUCER a Surety. His Grant of 20 marks confirmd. 213

ITEM LONDONJJ,
GalfWcZus Chaucer [blank] xviij s. ix d. de prestito, in denams
per ipsum nimis leceptis super vadaYs suis, infra TLospicium Reg/s
ibide?m [See No. 123.]

113.

1378, March 9. — Chaucer becomes surety for Sir William
Beauchamp.1

[Fine Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 11.]

The King, by the mainprise of John Beverle and Geoffrey
Chaucer, of London, has committed to Sir William Beauchamp,
Knight, the custody of the Castle and County of Pembroke, the
Castle and Lordship of Kilgarren, the Commote of Oysterlowe, and
the Lordship of Seintcler and Traham, being in the King's hand by
the minority of John, son and heir of John de Hasty ng, late Earl of
Pembroke, deceased, who held of King Edward III. in chief ; to hold
until the heir's majority, rendering yearly 400£. to the King, at the
Exchequer. Dated 9 March.

114.

1378, March 23. — TJie King confirms his grandfather's grant to
Chaucer of an annuity of twenty marks, because he has retained
him in his service ; with a reference to a later grant to John
Scatty on 1 May 1388.

[Patent Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 5, m. 27.]

De confir- 1 Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Inspeximws
maciorce. J h'feras patentes Domini JLdtvardi, nuper Regis AngKe,
aui nostri, in hec verba : Edwardus, Dei grace'a Rex
Anghe, Domimis Hiberm'e et Aquitam'e, Omnibus ad quos presentes
UYere pe^uenennt, salwtem. Sciatis [etc. See Patent Moll, 41 Edw.
III. ; No. 47, ante.] In cuiws rei testimonium has literas nosfras fieri
fecimws patentes. Teste me ipso, apud Castrum nostrum de Quenes-
burgh', vicesimo die Juny, anno regni nos^ri quadragesimo primo.
Nos autem, concessioner p?*edtc^am ratam ha^entes et gratam, earn
secun&um formam litesasum predict&vum de grac^'a nos^ra speciali, et
pro eo qwod p?*efatum Galfre'Jum retinuimats penes nos moraturww,
approbamus, ratificamz^s, et tenore presenciu?^ confirmamw^. In
cuiw^ etc. Teste ~Rege, apud Wesimonasterium, xxiij. die Marcij.

Per magnu??i Consilium.
[This is partly crossed out, and the following note is added in the margin :]

t, et restitute fuera?2#, pro eo qwod Dommws R<?x RicartZus
*, pr/mo die Maij anno regni sui xj°, concern^ Johanni
Scalby xl marco.^ in istis l#eris et aliis literis contentas, percipiendas
singulis annis ad totem vita??z ip.^ius Joha?mis. Ideo iste hYero
cancellantwr et dampnantwr.

i See No. 134.

214 CHAUCER'S Wife's A nimity. His Wine-Pension commuted. 1378.

115.

1378. March 26. — TJve King confirms his grandfatJier' s grant to
Philippa Chaucer of an annuity of ten marks.
[Patent Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 5, m. 8.]

De confinna- "\ Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Inspexinu/a
done — [Philippe] J-k'feras patentes Domini JLdwardi nuper Regis
Chaucer. J Angh'e, aui nostri, in hec verba : Edwardus, Dei
gr^a Rex Angk'e, Dominus Hiberm'e et
Aquitam'e, Omnibus ad quos presentes 1/tfere peruenerint, sal^tem.
Sciatis [etc. See Patent Roll, 40 Edw. III. ; No. 42, ante.] In
cuius rei testimoniuw has literas nosfras fieri fecimws patentes.
Tesfe me ipso, apud Haueryng, duodecimo die Septembm, anno regni
nostr'i quadragesimo. Nos an tern, concessionem predtctfam ratam
hafeentes et grtitam, earn secundum formaw Utenrum predtc/arttm de
gracm nos^ra spectali approbamws, ratificamus, et tenore p?'esenciuwj
confirmamtw. In cuiws etc. Teste ~Rege, apud Westmonasterium,
xxvj. die Marcij.1

Per magnum Con&ilium.

116.

1378, April 18. — Chaucer has a grant under the Privy Seal of 20
marks a year in lieu of his daily pitcher of wine.

[Warrants (Chancery,) Series I., Writs of Privy Seal, 1 Ric. II., file 456,
no. 339. Nicolas, note K.]

RICHARD, par la grace de Dieu Roy Dengleterre et de France, et Sei-
gnur Dirlande, A lonurable piere en Dieu leuesq^^e de Seint Dauid,
•nostre Chancellor, saluz. Come noA'fre trescher Seignur et ael le Roy, qi
Dieux assoille, eust nadgaires en sa vie grantez de sa grace especiale,
par ses lettres patentes desouz son grant seal, a nostie ame Esquier
Geffrey Chaucer vn pycher de vyn aprendre chescun iour en port de
•nostre Citee de Londres, paries mains du Botiller de nosfre dit Seignur
et ael ou de ses heirs pur le temps esteant, ou du lieutenant de
niesme le Botiller, a toute la vie de mesme celui Geffrey : Nous, en
recompensacion du dit picher de vyn par iour, et pur le bon seruice
que lauantdit Geffrey nous ad fait et ferra en temps auenir. lui eons
grantez vynt marcs a prendre chescun an a no^re Escheqer a toute la
vie du dit Geffrey, as termes de Seint Michel et de Pasq&e par oueles
porcions, outre les vynt marcs a lui grantees par no^re dit Seignur
et ael par ses le^res patentes desouz son grant seal, par nous confermees,
aprendre au dit Escheqer chescun an as ditz termes par oueles
porcions. Vous mandons qwe, receues deuers vous les dites le^res de
iwstre dit Seignur et ael faites du dit pycher de vyn par iour, et
ycelles cancellees en nosfae Chancellerie, si facez faire sur cest nostre
grant noz le^res desouz nostie grant seal en (due forme. Done souz

1 This occurs among other similar confirmations.

c.'s 20 marks a year for his Wine. His Letters of Protection. 215

nustre priue seal, a Westm', le xviij. iour dauerill, Ian de noatie
regne primer.

117.

1378, April 18. — Enrolment of the Utters patent of the same grant ;
with a reference to a later grant to John Scalby on 1 May 1388.

[Patent Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 5, m. 6.]

Galfr/<?o ) Hex, Omnibws ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, qwod cum
Chaucer. ) carissimus Dominus et anus noster, nuper Eex Angl/e,
defunctus, nuper in vita sua concessisset de grae?'a sua
spemli, per litei&s suas patentes, dilectfo Armigero nostio, Galfr«V/o
Chaucer, vnum picher vini pe?'cipiendww quol/6et die in portu
Ciuitatis nostfre Londom'e, per manws Pincerne dicti Domim et aui
noairi vel heredw/i suorum pro tempore existentis, siue locum tenentis
eiusdem Pincerne, ad totam vitam ipsius Galfrtofi : Nos, in recom-
pensaci'c^em dz'c^i picher J vini per diem et pro bono seruicio qwod
predz'crfus Galfn^us, qui d«c/as hYeras p?*efati aui no«/ri eidem GalfreWo
de d^cfo picher vini per diem sic fac/as in Cancellaria no^ra restituit
cancellandrt,'?, noHs impendit, et impendet in futurum, concessim?^ ei
viginti marcas, percipiendas singulis annis ad Scaccarium nostrum,
ad totam vitam predi'cfi GalfriWi, ad terminos Sancti Michaels et
Pasche per equales porc/o?ies, vltra illas viginti marcas ei concessas
per dictum Dominion, et auum nostrum per Uterus suas patentes per
nos confirmatas. pe^rcipiend«s ad dictum Scaccarium singulis annis ad
terminos praltctoe per equales porcio?ies. In cuius etc. Teste ~Rege,
apud WoBtmonasterium, xviij. die Aprih>.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

[This entry is partly crossed out, and the following note is inserted in the

margin :]

Vacant, et restitute iucrunt, pro eo qwod "Dominus Rex Ric«r-
<Zus infra scYiptiis, primo die Maij anno legni sui xj°, concemY
Jokanni Scalby xl. marcas in hVeris istis et ali/s hVeris contends,
p^?'cipiend«s singulis annis ad totam vita??i ip^ius Johan/zis. Ideo
iste h'fere cancellantwr et dampnant?/r.

118.

1378, May 10. — Letters of protection for Chaucer, going abroad on
the King's service.

[French Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 6.]

De pro- "1 Galfnrfus Chaucier, qui in obsequiuw ~Regis versus

tem'owe. } pm*tes transm&rinas profectun/5 est, haftet literaa 'Regis

de p?*otecc^o?ie, cum clausula ' Yolumw*',' vsqwe ad festum

1 Here the English or French word is written, without any contraction. In
some places it is Latinised as pichere, in others as piclieri. Cotgrave has —
" Pichier, m., a pitcher (pot). Langued."

216 1378. c.'sA nnuity. His Letters of A Homey for Gower $ Forester.

Natalis Domini proximo futurw?^ duraturas. Presentibus, etc. Teste
~Rege, apud Westmonasterium, x. die Maij.

Per billam de priuato sigillo.

119.

1378, May 14. — Four lialf -yearly payments of OJiaucer's annuity ;
with a payment of 26s. Sd. in advance.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 1 Ric. II., m. 3. Nicolas, note L.]

§ Die Veneris, xiiij. die Maij.

Galfr^us 1 GalfMo Chaucer, Armigero Regis, cui Dommus Rex,
Chaucer, j auus Regis huius, xx marcos axinuas ad Scaccarium, ad
totam vitam suam, per hYeras suas patentes nuper
concern^, quas quidem hYeras Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit eidem
Ctsilfrido, percipiendas dachas xx mareas in forma pred^cfa, : In
denarm sibi liberates, per assignac^owem sibi foctfam isto die, in persolu-
cionem xx li. sibi liberandarww de huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de
termwns MiehaeZis et Pasche, anno lj° Regis T&dwardi tercij, et
termwis Sancti Michae/is et Pasche proximo preieritis, per brewe de
pre'uato sigillo, inter mandata de hoc terniwo ... ... xx li.

Eidem GalfncZo, in denarm sibi liberat/s per nian?^*1 proprms, de
prestito super hmusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de tenniwo Michae/is
proximo futuroj ... ... ... ... xxvjs. viijd; vnde

Respondebit.

[In margin, opposite to the second entry :]

Liberator ad Scaccari'wm Compotorum xx° die Juny , a/Mo vjto.

120.

1378, May 21. — Chaucer has the King's letters of attorney for John
Gower and Richard Forester, during his absence abroad.

[French Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 6. Nicolas, note M.]
De generali ( GalfhWus Chauser, qui de licencia ~Regis versus partes
. j

attornato. j transmarmos prefectures est, ha&et liferas Re^ de

generali attornato, sub nonrinibws Jokannis Gower et

Ricardi Forester, sub alte?'nac*o?ze, ad luwandum [vel perdendum],

e^c., in quibuscumqwe curiis Angh'e, per vnum annum duraturas, e^c.

Pxesentibus, etc. Teste Re#e, apud Westmonasterium, xxj° die Maij.

Willelmus de Burst', cle?'icws Regis,

121.

1378, May 28. — Payments to John of Gaunt for his army serving in
the King's wars ; and to Sir Edward de Berkeley and Geoffrey
Chaucer, sent to the Lord of Milan and [Sir] John Hawkwood,1
in Lombardy,for assistance in the said wars.

1 As to the latter, see the Venetian Calendar of State Papers, by Rawdon
Brown, vols. i. v. and vi, ; also "Giovanni Acuto (Sir John Hawkwood), Storia
d'un Condottiere, per G. Temple- Leader e G. Marcotti."

A.D. 1378. CHAUCER'S expenses on his Mission to Lombard y. 217

[Issue Roll, Easter, 1 Ric. II., m. 14, 16.]
GUERRE.

Exitus de Guerris de termino Pasche, anno primo Regis Ricarrfi
secundi, Venerabili Patre Thoma [Episcopo] 1 Exoniensi
Thesaurario existente, [Johanne Bacun Cameraiio existente].2

§ Die Veneris, xxviij0 die Maij.

Joha>mes, \ Johanni, Regi Castelle et Legionis, Duci Lancastrz'e :
Dux Lancastrae. I In denam's per ipswm TQceptis vij° die Apn'lis
proximo preterite de Willelmo Walworth' et JohamiQ
Philipot, Receptoribws denMwrum pro guerm Regis, super vadm
guerre consuetis ipsius Ducis, v Banerettorww, C Milituw, CCCiiijxx
xiiij ArmigerorwM, et D sagittarioraw, secuw p?'ofecturorw??i in.
obsequio Regis supra mare, vna cwn regardo et dimidio eonmde?M D
hominum ad arma * * * iiij M'CCxliij li. xviij s. ; vnde
Respondebit.

[In margin:] Liberator ad Scaccarium Compotorum.

[Then follow payments to many noblemen, knights, officials, and others,
including Guichard Dangle (d'Angle), Earl of Huntingdon, ' ' being in the parts
of Flanders for the treaty of peace between the King and his adversary of
France."]

Edwardus \ Edwardo de Berkele, Militi, misso in nunc/o Regis
de Berkele. / versus partes Lumbarde'e, tarn ad Dominum de Melan,
quam ad Jdkannem Haukewode, pro certis negociis
expediczowem guerre Reg/s tangentibus : In denanYs per ipswm
receptts de eisdein WilleZ??io et Joha?me, Receptoribz^, super vadm
suis, vt pa^e^ per billam de p?*tuato sigillo eisdem Recepto?•^ft^^s
directam, pro \miitsmodi solucionibus faciendis, Yemanentem in
Hanape?'io de hoc termi^o, et per breeze gene?fale, vt supra

Cxxxiij li. vj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondebit.

[In margin :] Liberatwr ad Scaccarium Compotorum.

GalfhWus \ GalfrzWo Chaucer, Armigero Regis, misso in comitiua
Chaucer. / eiusdem Edwardi ad easdem partes in nunc/o Regis
p?-edic^o : In denam's per ipswm receptis de eisdem
Willelmo et Joha?me, super vad^f^s suis, vt patet per billa??i de p?'mato
sigillo in proxma particwla superius allegatcm, et per brewe generale

de magno sigillo, vt supra Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde

Respondebit.

[In margin :] Liberator ad Scaccan'wrn Compotorwm.

*****
Summa, xxij M'CCCxxxiiij li. xij s.

1 Omitted. 2 The words in brackets are taken from the duplicate roll.

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 15

218 A.D. 1378. c.'s Costs on his Journey to Count Barnabo of Milan

122.

1378, Sept. 19. — Chaucer's enrolled Account for his Journey to
Lombardy, from 28 May to this date.
[Exchequer L. T. R. Foreign Accounts, 3 Ric. II., forula D, dorse.]

DE UECEPTIS, VAD77S, ET EXPENS7S P.ROFICISCENDO IN NUNCIO REG7S
VfiflSUS VARIES LUMBARDLE ANNO P7Z7MO.

PER GALFR/TWM CHAUCER.

COMPOTUS GalfhVZi Chaucer, scutiferi, de receptis, vadiis, et
expensis suis, proficiscendo in nuncio Regis ad paries Lumbardie,
anno primo, per brewe Regis de priuato sigillo, datum xxvjto die
Februarij, anno tercio, Thestmran'o, Baronibw,?, et Cameram's Imius
Sccrccrtrij directtm, irwtulatum in Memorandis de termino Pasche
eodem anno ; l per quod brewe Rex mandauit eisdem Thesaurario et
Baronibws, qttod computent cum prefato Galfivfo, per s&cmmentum
suura, de quodam viagio per ipmm nuper facto, eundo in dicto nuncio
Regis ad di'c£as paries Lumbardie, versus Barnabo, Do??im?«m de
Mellan, in co?ftitiua Edwardi de Berkeley, ac de denams per ipsum
receptis causa p?'ed^c^a, faciendo eidem GalfnWo debitam allocacio?iem
pro tempore quo extitit in seruicio Reg/s in eodem viagio, a die quo
recessit de Londoma causa pred^cfa, vsqwe ad suura redire ibidem, de
talibws vadiis diurnis qualia allocabantwr aliis scutifem sui stat?^s
similiter proficiscentibz^ in nuncio Regis JLdwardi tercij, aui Reg/s
huiws, vel Reg/5 huiws, ad pa?'tes transmarinas ante hec tempo?'a,
vnacu?7i custubws racwnabilibzts pro passagio dicti Galfr^rZi et suo
repassagi'o maris; et de eo qwod per compofwm illu??i sibi deberi
inuenerint, p?*efati Thesaurarius et' Camerary' eidem Galfr?Wo
soluci'o?zem de ihesaiwo "Regis fieri f&ciant ; videlicet, de lomusmodi
leceptis, vadm, et expenses, vt infra.

Hecepta. (Prestitwm trahitz^r). — Idem wddit compo^«?i de Ixvj li.
xiij s. iiij d. super ip^m one?*aU's ad Receptwm Scaccarij pro tot
denarm per ips?*m meceptis de WilleZ?Mo de Walworth' et Johanne
Philippot, Receptor^ws denariorttm pro guerris "Regis, xxviij0 die
Maij, termiwo Pasche anno primo, super vada'a ipsius CtfLlfridi missi
in nimce'o Reg^fs versus di'c^as partes Lumbardie, tarn ad ~Dominum
de Mellan, qwam ad Johannem de Haukewode, pro ce?-tis negocew
expedicKwern guerre tangentib^^s, sicut continetur in pelle Memo-
randorum ad eandem Recej^awi de eisdem termiwo et anno,2 et eciam
in quadam cedula de particwlis hie in thesawro liberate.2

Swm??ia Rece^fe — Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Expense. — Idem computed in vadws suis, proficiscendo in dicto
nuncto Regw versus dicfas p^?'tes Lumbardie, a xxviij0 die Maij
anno primo, quo die iter suura arripuit de Ciuitate Londom'e versus

1 There are two writs of this date on the Memoranda Roll, Q. R., m. 9 and
10d., the first relating to Chaucer's voyage to Paris and Montreuil, the second
to his voyage to Lombardy. 2 Not found.

1378-9. Advances to c. when lie went to Flanders and France* 219

easdem pastes, vsque xixm diem Septembr/s proximum ss^uentem, quo
die rediit ad Ciuitatem pre<licta,m, scil/cet, eundo, morando, et rede-
undo, per Cxv dies, vtroqwe die computato, Ixxvj li. xiij s. iiij d.,
capiente per diem xiij s. iiij d. per preAictum brewe Reg/s annotatz^w
sup?'« in tit?«lo huiws compctfi, sicut continetur in dicta, cedula do
particwlis, et sicut huiusmodi vadm allocantw eidem Galfr/c?o in
compose suo de consimili viagio, Hotulo xlvij0, Hotulo Compotorum.1
Et in passagio et repassagio suo, hominum et equorww suoraw,
iiij li., per idem brewe Reg/s, sicut continetur ibidem,

Summa Expensawm. — iiijxxli. xiij s. iiij d. Et halei superplu-
Bagium — xiiij li.2 De quibws habiturus est solucz'oMem vel satisfac-
c/owem aliuiide p>fetextu brems Reg/s de priuato sigillo annotate sup?*a
in titwlo huiws compo^i. Quod quidem brewe xij° die July anno iiijto
Reg/,9 "Ricardi Secundi liberauit Thesaurario et CamerariVs ad
Jleceptam Seacca?ij.

123.

1378, Sept. 29—1379, Sept. 29.— The Sheriff's of London pay the
18s. 9d. cJiarged on CJiaucer (see No. 112); and Chaucer is
charged with moneys advanced to him for his journeys to
Flanders and France on tJie King's affairs.

[Pipe Roll, 2 Ric. II.]
LONDON/^, MIDDL^BSEZ'.

Ciues Londome, Johannes Bosham et Thomas Cornwaleys,
Vicee0?^'tes Londom'e et M.iddlesex' , a festo Sancti Michoe/is anno
secw/ido vsqwe festum Sancti MichaeZis proximo seqwens, icddunt
compotum. * * *

Item London^, MiddZesex'.

lidem Vicecomites reddunt compotum * * * Et in
thesauro xviij s. ix d. per prefatoa Viceco??i^tes pro Gsiifrido Chaucer,
de quo oneratur inter totalia sua in Rofalo precedenti.

Jtesiduum Londonie.

Galfridus Chaucer, Armiger Regis, debet x li. de prestito ad d^cfam
Rece/;to??i, xvij° die Februarij, anno lj°, supe?* expeni^'s ipsius GalfreWi,
missi in secret^ negocus "Regis versus pm*tes Flandiie, ibidem [in
~Rotulo de prestit^s fac^is ad l&Bceptam Scaccarij de diuersis ann^s,3 in
custodm J&Qmemoratoris fiegis existente]. Et xxvj li. xiij s. iiij d.
de p?*estito ad eandem Rece/?taw, xxx° die Aprilis, code?;* anno,
super vad^'^s ipsius Galfr^i, missi in nuncium ~Regis versus partes
Francz'e, ibide??^. Et lespondet in compoto suo inde alibi in hoc
"Rotulo, ~Rotulo Compotoium.*

1 See No. 72. 2 See No. 140. 3 Not found.

4 See No. 101. Theoretically the Foreign Accounts of each year formed part
of the Pipe Roll, and originally did so, but at this date they had become too
voluminous, and were severed from the accounts of the Counties. The Pipe Roll
is officially dated 2 Ric. II., but should be 3 Ric. II.

220 A.D. 1377-8. Collector's Accounts surveyd by CHAUCER.

124.

1378, Sept. 29. — Account of Nicholas Brembre and John Philipot,
Collectors of Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer,
from 24th Aug. 1377, to this date. Payment of 101. 19s. Qd. to
Chaucer.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 8, m. 62 d.]

COMPOTUS NichoZai Brembre et Johannis Philipot, quos [Rex] per
literds suas patentes datos xxiiijto die Augusti, anno pn'mo, penes
ipsos remanentes, assignauit ad Custumam et Subsidiunz lanamm,
corior?<m, et pellium lanutara?^ in Portu Londom'e * [as before]
* * leuanda et colligenda, et ad opus Regis recipienda, et ad
sigillum quod dicitwr Coket in Portu predicfo custodiendww, q?4amdiu
Regi placuerit, ita quod de exit/ows inde prouenientibzis Regi ad
ScacG&rium suum respondeant ; et per aliud brewe Regis de magno
sigillo, datwm x° die Octobm, anno secundo, Thesavrario et Baronilws
huius Scoccan)' directum, quod est inter Commwma de termwo
Sancti MichaeZis, eodem anno ; in quo quidem brewi coniinetur, quod
per Regem et Consiliuw suum in Pa?*liamento suo concordatum fuit,
qwod totu?7i Subsidium laniarum et pellium lanutarum ce?*tis pe?-sonis
per Regem in dicto Pa?iiame??to suo depntatis pro expenses guerre
sue solueretur, et qwod antiqua Custuma, videlicet, de sacco lane de
indigenis djmidia marca, et de alienigems x s., vna cum exitibus
Coketti, denarijs, et omnibus aliis inde prouenientibws vltra dictum
Subsidium, pro expenses Hospicij Regis et aliis neccmarijs Regw
esset reseruata ; per quod brez«e Rex mandauit eisdem Thesaurario et
Baronibws, qwod dictum 8ubetc?i»m super d*c#is lanis et pellibws
lanutis concessum ab antiqua Custuma lanarwm et pellium lanuta-
rum, Qxiiibus Coketti, denarijs, et omnibus aliis inde prouenientibws
vltra dictum Subsidium, in compotis Collectorum Custumarwm et
Subsidiorw?^ predictorum sep«rari faciant ; videlicet, de hmusmodi
Subsidio lanarwm et pelliu?^ lanutarwm, ac de dicta antiqua Custuma
lanan^m, pelliu??i l&imtarum, et coriomm, necnon de exitibus predicti
sigilli quod dicitur Cokett', a predicto xxiiij10 die Augusti, anno
primo, ante quern diem Johaw^es Warde et Ricar^us de Northbury,
nuper Collecfores in Portu et locis predicts, inde computarunt
inmediate supra,1 vsqwe festum Sancti MichaeZis, anno sec<mdo, per
visum et testimoniu?^ Galfr^Zi Chaucer, Contraioiulatoris eoiundem
Subsidiorum et Cvistumarum Regis ib?'cZem, videZiceZ, de vno anno et
xxxvj diebws. A quo quidem festo ijdem Collectores sunt inde
computaturi.

*****
Swmma antique Custume — vj M1 CCiiijxx xiij li. vj s. viij d.
*****
Subsidy — xxxviij M1 Dxxvj li. viij s. xj d.

* * * *

1 See No. 110.

1379, Payments of Annuities of CHAUCER and his Wife. 221

Et prefato Contrarotulatori, pro vadzYs suis per idem tempus, x li.
xix s. vj d., iuxta r&iam xli. per annww. * * *

Et quieti sunt.
125.

1379, Feb. 3. — Payment of part of Cfiaucer's first annuity, as a loan,
though due at Michaelmas last.

[Issue Roll, Mich. 2 Ric. II., m. 16. Nicolas, note N.]
§ Die Jouis, tercio die February.

GalfrtYfo Chaucer, cui Dominus Re.# TLdwardus, auus "Ret/is
hums, xl marcels annuas ad Scaccarium percipiend«s per literas suas
patentee nuper concessit, quas quidew UYeras Domimts Rex nunc
connrmauit : In denariis sibi liberates, per msmus propvias, de
prestito super bwusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de termino Sancti
Michaels vltimo preterite ... xij li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde

Respondebit. Postea deducuntw de \m\usmodi certo suo, vt patet
in pelle xxiiijto die Maij proximo sequew^e.

126.

1379, May 21. — Two half-yearly payments of Philippa Cliaucvrs
annuity, to John Yerneburgh.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 2 Ric. II., m. 5.]
§ Die Sabbati, xxj° die Maij.

"Philij)p3i ) Philippe Chaucer, nuper vni domicellarwm Camere
Chaucer. / Philippe, nuper Re^me Angh'e, cui Domimis Rex
JLdivardtts, auus Regis huiw^, x marcas ann^«^ ad
Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam pe?fcipiendo5, pro bono seruicio pe?1
ipsam eidem Re^'ne dum vixit impenso, per literas suas patentee
nuper concern^, quas quidem literas idem Domin.ua Rex mwc
ratificauit eidem Jfailippz Chaucer, habendas in forma p?'edzc^a : In
denam's sibi liberate, per assignace'owem sibi facfam isto die,1 per
man ws Joha?wis Yerneburgh', in persolncionem x m&rcarum sibi
liberandftrww de h.\\iusmodi ce?-to suo, videlicet, de terimwis Sancti
Mich<7e?is et Pasche proximo preteritis, per duo brewa sua de libe?-«/e
de magno sigillo, inte/% mandato de hoc termiwo ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

127.

1379, May 24. — Payment of the arrears of Chaucer's two annuities.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 2 Ric. II. m. 5. Nicolas, note O.]

§ Die Martis, xxiiijto die Maij.

GalfnWus ) GalfhVfo Chaucer, cui Domimts Rex Edwardus, auus

Chaucer. / Regis huius, xx murcas smnuas ad Scaccarium ad totam

vitam suam percipiendos, pro bono seruicio per ip.s^m

1 This assignment was made on the Sheriff of Lincoln, who owed 26A 13s.
, which sum was to be paid by him partl
Philippa Chaucer. — Receipt Roll, same date.

222 A.D. 1379. c.'s Annuities. His Survey of Collectors' Accounts.

eidem Domino Eegi dum vixit impenso, per literas suas paten tes
nuper concern'^, quas quidem hYeras Dominus Rex nunc tercio die
Marcij l confirmauit : In denanYs sibi liberate, per assignacwwem sibi
frtcfam isto die in persolucionem xiij li. xix s. viij d. sibi liberand«r?m
de \\miismodi certo suo, videlicet, tarn pro rata a p?'edic£o tercio die
Maij (sic) vsqz/e iesiwn Pasche tune proximo seq?^ens, qm«m pro
terminis Scmc^i MichaeZis et Pasche proximo preterit^, deducU's vero
xij li. xiij s. iiij d. sibi liberates de \\musmodi certo suo, videlicet,
tercio die Yebiuarij proximo prete?ito, per brewe suum de liberate,
inter mandato de hoc termino ... ... xxvj s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfnYZo, cui Dominus Eex nunc xviij0 die Aprilis anno
regni sui pKmo xx marcas annz««s ad Scaccarium ad festa Sancti
MichaeZis et Pasche pe?* equales porc^o^ies percipiendos, pro bono
seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Eegi impenso et in futur?im impen-
dendo, per kYeras suas patentes concess^, et in recompensac^o?iem vniws
picheri vini sibi per Dominum Eegem JLdwardum, auum Eegis hums,
in portu Ciuitatis Londome, per manws Pincerne eiusdem Eegis
HLdwardi et hered&w suorw?^, ad totam vitam ipsius Galfr^i, quoh'&et
die percipiendi, pe?* hYeras suas patentee nuper concess^ : In denarm
sibi liberate, per assignacionem sibi factfam isto die, in persolucionem
xij li. iiij d. sibi liberand«rw?w de hmmmodi certo suo, videKcetf, tam
pro rata a pred^cfo xviij0 die Aprilis vsqwe festu?^ Sancti Michaels
proximo seqtiens, quam p)'o termiiio Pasche proximo preterite, per

loieiiQ suwn de liberate, inter man&ata de hoc termino

xij li. iiij d.2

128.

1379, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Philippot, Collectors of
Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer, for the
year preceding. Payment of £10 to Chaucer.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31.]

LONDON/A — Compotus NichoZai Brembre et Johawms Philippotes,
M Custume et Subsidij lanarwm, pelliuw lanutcmw?, et
coiiorum in Portu Londom'e et in singuiis portubws et locis abinde ex
vtraq?«e parte aque Thamisie, [vsq?^e Grauesende,]3 et ibidem, et exinde
ex p«rte Essex' vsqite Tillebury, et ibidem, per brewe Eegis patens,
dattim xxiiij*0 die Augusti, anno primo, penes ipsos Collecifores
remanews, videfo'ce£, de \m\usmodi Custuma et SubszW/o a festo Sancti
Michae/is, anno secwido, ante quod festum ijdem Collectores 4 inde
computarunt, Rotulo Compotorum de Custum^, vsqwe festum Sancti
MichaeZis proximo sequels, pe?- visum et testimoniu??i Galfr^i
Chaucer, Contrarotulatoris earw?«dem Custuinarzf??^ et Siibsidionim

1 Sic; it should be 23rd March, 1 Ric. II.

" 121, 13s.," erroneously, in Devon's Issue Rolls. 3 Omitted.

4 "ijdem Collectores " repeated.

1379. c.'s Annuities from the King and John of Gaunt. 223

Reg/s ibide?«. A quo quidem festo ijdem Collectores sunt inde
computaturi.

*****

Summa Recepte — xxiij M1 DCCiiijxx j li. viij s. iij d. ob. qua.
* * *

Et prefato Confcrarotulafon', pro vadus suis, x li. * * *

129.

1379, Oct. 18. — Payment to Chaucer of 20s. of his annuity, as a
loan, though really due.

[Issue Roll, Mich. 3 Ric. II., m. 2.]
§ Die Martis, xviij0 die Qctobris.1

GalfhYZus \ GalfhVZo Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex Edtvardus, aims
Chaucer. J Regis huius, xl marcas annwas ad Scaccarium. ad totam
vitam suam percipiendos per l/£eras suas p&tentes nuper
concessft, quas quidem hYeras Dominus Rex mine confirmauit : In
denam's sibi liberated, per manus proprias, de prestito super huizjs-
modi certo suo ... ... ... ... ... xxs. ; vnde

Respondebit.

[In margin :]
Liberator ad Scaccarium Compotorum, xx° die Juiu}', anno sexto.

130.

1379, Nov. 5. — Warrant by John of Gaunt for the payment of a
moiety of Chaucer's annuity.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. H,2 f. 17.]

Johan, [par la grace de Dieu, Roy de Castille et de Leon, Due de
Lancastre,] e^c., A nos^re trescher et bien ame Clerc, Sire William de
Bughbrigg', nostre Receiuowr general, saluz. Nous vous mandons
que des issues de vostre Receite facez paier a les persones desouzescritz
leurs feez et annueltees a eux duz del terme de Seint Michel darrein
passe, et en manere come vous solastes les paier; cestassauoir, a
* * * noz trescheres files "Yhilipps et Elizabeth', Geffrei
Chaucer, * * * ; receiuant deuers vous le^res dac-
quitance seueralles, tesmoignantes les paiementz queux vous lewrs
issint paierez. * * * Done etc., a no^re Chastel de
Kenilleworth', le ^quinte iour de Nouembre, Ian e^c. tierz. [3 Ric. II.]

131.

1379, Nov. 6. — Warrant by John of Gaunt for the payment of a
moiety of Philippa Chaucer s annuity.

1 On the same day there was a payment to Bremhre and Philippot, the
Collectors, of the large sum of 46Z. 13s. 4c£., as a "reward for their labour and
diligence "in collecting the Customs and Subsidy. Chaucer probably had a
share of this reward, as he had of like rewards in later years.

2 This is the second Register of John of Gaunt.

224 A.D. 1379. Annuities of CHAUCER fy his Wife paid.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 14, f. 15 b.]

~Pur "Philippe \ Johan, [par la grace de Dieu Roy de Castille et de
Chaucy, et Leon, Due de Lancastre,] etc,., A nostre cher et bien
Ministres et ame Clerc, Sire Robert de Whiteby, nostre Receiuowr
Officers Mon- en Contee de Nicole, saluz. Nous vows mandons que
sieur, J des issues de vostre Receite facez paier a nostYQ chere

et bien amee Damoiselle, Philippe Chaucy, sa annueltee
pur le terme de Seint Michel darein passez ; et aussint facez paier a
touz noz Ministres et Officers deinz vostre Receite lour fees et gages a
eux duz et acustumez, et en manere come vows solastes en temps
passez, noz autres leftres nadgaires a vows enuoiez au contraire nient
contreesteantes ; receiuant deuers vous le^res dacquitances desouz le
seal de la dite Philippe, tesmoignantes les paiementz queux vows lui
ensi ferrez ; par queles lettres et par cestes l nous vblons que vous
eneiez due allouance en vostre aconte. Et outre ce, vows mandons
que touz les deniers remenantz en vostre main de vostre Receite
enuoiez a nous a nostre Chastel de Kenilleworth', pur y liuerer a
nostre Receiuoffr general. Et ce ne lessez. Done etc., a Kenille-
worth1, le sisme iowr de Nouembre, Ian etc. tierz. [3 Ric. II.]

132.

1379, Dec. 9. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuities.
[Issue Roll, Mich. 3 Ric. II., m. 9. Nicolas, note P.]

Die Veneris, ix° die Decembm.

Galfr/dus ) Galfr/rfo Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex JLdicardtis, auus
Chaucer. J Regis huius, xx m&rcas annuas ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam percipiend^s, pro bono seruicio pe?* ip^wm
eidem Domino Regi impenso, per hVeras suas patentes nuper concern*?,
quas quide?^ hYeras Doniimts Rex nunc confirmauit : In denariis sfbi
fiberatw per eandem2 assignacionem, in persolnoionem x mavcamm
sibi liberandarttm de \\musmodi ce?'to suo, vide^'cet, pro termino
Michaelia proximo preterite, per brewe mwn de libe?*a#e, inte?*
m&ndata de hoc termino ... ... ... vjli. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Galfr^o, cui Dommws Rex nunc xx marcas &nnuas ad
Scaccarium, ad totam vitam suam percipiend«s, pro bono seruicio per
ipsum eidem Domino Regi impenso, per h'feras suas patentes nuper
concessit : In denarm sibi liberal, per manus proprias, per eandem
assignac^owe??^, in persoluc^o??e?^ x m&rcarum sibi liberandart*7» de
\m\usmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro termino MichaeZis proximo
prete?ito, per brewe suum de libe?'ate, in proxi?na p^rticwla supe?'ius
allegatw?>i ... ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

1 " Et par cestes," repeated in MS.

2 This seems to be a mistake for "per assignacionem sibi factam istodie." It
consisted of 18s. lOd. to be received from the Sheriffs of London, and 121. 7s. lOd.
from the Collectors of the Custom of Wools, London. —Receipt Roll, same date.

1380. Cup for c.'s Wife. His Raptus of Cecilia Chaumpaiyne. 225

133.
1380, Jan. 2. — Payment for a New-year's gift by John of Gaunt to

Philippa Chaucer of a silver-gilt cup with cover.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 14, f. 33 b. Nicolas, note DD.]
Pur la grande \ Johan, [par la g?*ace de Dieu Eoy de Castille et de
Garderobe. / Leon, Due de Lancastre,] etc., A nostiQ trescher et
tresame Clerc, Sire William Oke, Clerc de nostfre
grande Garderobe, saluz. Nous vous mandons que des issues de
vostre Receite facez paier les so??imes et deniers souzescritz as persones
souznowmez, cestassauoir : * * * Et a Adam Bamme,1
pur le pois de cynk hanapes et cynk couercles dargent susrorrez, de
lui achatez, dont vn poise xliiij s. iiij d., par nous donez en la veile de
la Concepcion nostre Dame a vn Chiualer le Sieur de Melane, a
Sauuoye ; le second hanape poise xxxviij s. xd.,le tierce hanape
poise xxxvij s. viij d.,le quart hanape poise xxxiiij s. viij d., et le
quint hanape poise xxxj s. vd. ; les queux quatre hanapes, ouesqwe
lewr couercles, nous donasmes le iour de Ian Renoef a la Maistresse
nosh-e treschere compaigne, Dame Senche Blount, Dame Blanche de
Trompyngton', et Phelippe Chaucy — neof liures, sis soldz, et vnsze
deniers. Et au dit Adam pur la fesure et lor des ditz cynk hanapes
et cynk couercles, pur chescun meindre que le pois est par cynk
soldz ; et issint est la so??mie allouable oyt liures, vynt troys deniers.
* * * La sowme totaile des parcelles susdites amonte a
cynk Centz quatre vyntz et dousze liures, vnsze soldz, et quatre
deniers ; de quele sowme nous volons que par cestes vous eneiez due
allouance en vosfae prochein aconte. Done etc. a nostve Chastel de
Kenille worth', le second iour de Januier, Ian etc. tierz.

134.

1380, May 1. — Deed of Release by Cecily Cliaumpaigne to Geoffrey
Chaucer in respect of Jier "raptus." 2

[Close Roll, 3 Ric. II. m. 9 d.]

De scripto \ Nouerint vniuerai me, Ceciliam Chaumpaigne, filiam
irrotttZafo. / quondam Willelmi Chaumpaigne et Agnetis vxom eiw^,
remisisse, relaxasse, et onmino pro me et heredibws meis
imperpefw^^m quietwm clamasse Galfrido Chaucer, armige?-o,
oniTiimodas acceo?ies, tarn de raptu meo, tarn [s/c] de aliqua alia re vel
causa, cuiuscumqwe condiczoms fuerint, quas vnq^am ha&ui, ha&eo,
sen haftere pote?'o, a principio mundi vsqwe in diem confeccw/iis
p?'esenciuw. In cuius rei testimoniwm presentibws sigillu?^ meu7?i
apposui. Hiis testibws, Domino Willehno de Beauchamp',3 tune

1 He is elsewhere described as " orfeow?' de Londres," on f. 48b, 1. 2 from
foot— F. J. F.

8 The meaning of this term has been discussed at length by Dr. Furnivall
and Mr. Floyd in the Trial -Forewords, pp. 136—144.

3 As to his relations with Chaucer, see Mr. Selby's letter in the Athenaeum,
May 26, 1888, pp. 661, 662 ; and see No. 113.

226 A.D. 1380. CHAUCER'S Arrears ami his Wife's Annuity paid.

Camerarao Domini Regis, Dommo Johawie de Clanebowe, Dowmo
WilleZwo de Neuylle, Militibws, Johanne Philippott,1 et Ricardo
Morel. Datw?7i Londome, primo die Maij, anno regni Regis Ricardi
secundi post conquestw?» tercio.

Efc memorandum, quod predict Cecilia venit in Cancellarm Re^/61
apud Westmonasterium, quarto die Maij, anno presenti, et recognouit
scriptum prddtcfom, et om/da contenta in eodem, in forma predec^a.

135.

1380, May 4. — Payment of Philippa Chaucer's annuity, to William
Bagot.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 3 Ric. II., m. 5.]
§ Die Veneris, quarto die Maij.

"Philippa, \ "Philippe Chaucer, nuper Domicelle Camere Plu'%/?e,
Chaucer, j nuper Re^'ne AngKe, cui Dominus Rex ^Ldwardus, auus
Reg^s huius, x marcas annwas ad Scacearium ad totain
vitam suam percipiendos, pro bono seruicio per ipsam eidem Regine
dura vixit impenso, per k7eras suas patentee nuper concess^, quas
quidem h'^eras Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit in forma pred^c^a : In
denam's sibi liberate, per manus "Wille^mi Bagot, in persoluctcwem
x marcarww sibi liberandar^w de hmusmodi ce/'to suo, videKcet, de
terimVns Sancti Michaels et Pasche vltimo preteritis, per brewe suuw
de liberate, inter mauda^a de hoc termmo ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

136.

1380, May 11. — Warrant by John of Gaunt for payment to Chaucer
of 100s. in arrear of his annuity.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 14, f. 81.2]

Johan, [par la grace de Dieu, Roy de Castille et de Leon, Due de
Lancastre,] e£c., A nostfre trescher et bien anie Clerc, Sire William de
Bughbrigg', nostre Receiuowr general, saluz. Nous vous mandons que
as persones desouz escriptz facez paier ce que leur est aderere del
terme de Pasqwes darrein passez de lewr annueltees et assignementz,
queles ils pregnont de nous ; cestasaauoir, a * * * et
a Geffrei Chaucy Cent soldz, * * * ; receiuant
deuers vous le^res dacquitance seueralles desouz les sealx des pe?-sones
auantdites, tesmoign antes les paiementz queux vous leur issint ferrez,
par queles et par cestes nous volons q?^e vous eneiez due allouance en
vosfre aconte. Done etc., a nos^re Manoir de la Sauuoye, le xj.
iour de May, Ian etc. tierz.

137.

1380, June 30 and July 2. — Deeds of Release by Richard Goodchild
and John Grove to Chaucer, and by Cecily Chaumpaigne to them ;
with a bond by John Grove to her for .£10.

1 One of the Collectors of Customs, and afterwards Mayor of London.

2 See Notes and Queries, 7 S., v. 290.

1380. CHAUCER'S Raptus of Cecilia Chaumpaigne. 227

[City of London Records, Pleas and Memoranda, A. 23, m. 5 d.] *
Chaucer. — Vltimo die Junij, anno legm Regis RicanZi sectmdi
secundo,2 Rieardvis Goodchild' et Johannes Groue, armurer, recogno-
uerunt subsequens scn'ptura esse factum suura, in hec verbs, :

Nouerint vniuersi nos, "Ricardwm Goodchild', coteler, et Johamiem
Groue, armurer, ciues Londom'e, remisisse, relaxasse, et imperpetuum.
pro nob^s, heredibws, et executoribws .nosfris quietwra clamasse
GalfnWo Chaucer, armige?'o, onmiwodas acciowes, querelas, et
demandas quas ve?*sus dictum GalfnV£um vnqiiam ha&uimws, ha&emus,
seu aliquo modo ha&ere poterinms, vel aliquis nostrum ha&ere pote?'it
infuturaw, racione alicuiws transgressionis, conuencionis, contractus,
compoti, debiti, vel alterius rei cuiuscwmqwe, realis vel pe^'sonah's,
inter nos et predictum Galfr A/um vel aliquew nostrum inite vel facte
a principle mu?idi vsqwe in diem confecctoms presenciu?^. In cuius
rei testiwowmm presentibus sigilla nostrd, apposuimw-s.
Londoni'e, vicesimo octauo die menst's Junij, anno regni
Ricardi secwwdi a Conquestz* quarto.

Goodchild', \ Eodem die vemY hie Cecilia Chaumpaigne, et cognouit
Groue. / subsequens scripium esse iactum SUU/M, in hec verba :

Nouerint vniue?*si me, Ceciliam Chaumpaigne, filiam quondam
Willelmi Chaumpaigne et Agne^ vxo?is eius, remisisse, relaxasse,
et onwi?fco pro me heredibws et executoribws meis imperpetuu?^
quietw?«clamasse Rica?*c?o Goodchild', coteler, et Johanni Groue,
armurer, ciuibus Londom'e, omwimodas acciones, querelas, et de-
maudo^, tarn reales quam personales, quas versus d^c^os Rica?'c?um et
Johonnem vel eoium alberum vnqwam habm, habeo, seu quouismodo
iufutnnfm h^&ere potero, rac^one cuiuscu?7^q^«e cause a principio
mu^di vsq?«e in diem confecctxwis presenciu?^. In cuiws rei testi-
monium presentib^' sigilluw meuw apposui. Datum London^,
vicesimo octauo die Junij, anno regni Regw Ricardi secundi post
conquesttm quarto.

C. Chaum- ^ Secwwdo die Julij, anno regni Rege's Ricardi sec?mdi
paigne. ( quarto, Joh<m?zes Groue, armurer, venit hie coram

Vacat, quia j Maiore et Alder??ia?iwis, et recognouit se debere Cecilie
soluit. ) Chaumpaigne, fik'e quondam WilleZ??zi Chaumpaigne

et Agneta's vxoris eius, decem libras sterlingo?'^^?7^,
soluendos ad iestum Sancti Mich«elis p?-ox^mo f uturw??i, etc. Et nisi
fecerit, concedit, etc.3

1 Discovered by Dr. Sharpe, and reported on in the Athenaeum, Aug. 14,
1897. 2 Sic ; error for quarto.

3 This last entry is crossed out, and " Vacat" etc. is written in the margin.
Dr. Sharpe's MS. Indices to the Husting Rolls mention Robert Chaumpaigne,
saddler, 1349 ; Robert Chaumpaigne and Matilda his wife, 1363 ; and Nicholas
Belenerge, called Chaumpaigne, saddler, 1358.

228 1380. c.'s Annuities paid. His survey of Collector*? Accounts.

138.

1380, July 3. — Half-yearly payment of Chaucer's annuities.

Die Martis, tercio die Julij.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 3 Ric. II., m. 10. Nicolas, note Q.]

GalfhWus ) GalfhVfo Chaucer, cui Dommm Rex JLdwardus, aims
Chaucer, j Regis huius, xx marcas annwas ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam percipiendas per h'feras suas patentes conces&it,
quas quidem Kferas "Dominus Rex mine confirmauit ; et postmodufti,
xviij0 die Aprilis, anno pn'mo Regis huius, Dominus Rex qui nunc est
concessit eidem GalfriWo xx marcfls percipiendrts singulis annis ad
Scaccarium suum ad termwos Sancti Mich#e/is et Pasche per equales
porches, vltra xx marco* sibi prius l per dictum ~Domiuum Regein
J&lwardum auu??^ concessas : In denariis sibi liberatis, per assigna-
tiowm sibi fac^am isto die, in persolucz'oweni xx ma-rcarum sibi
liberandftrwm de Imiusmodi certo suo, videl/cet, pro terimno Pasche
•proximo p?-etmto, per kieue suwn de liberate, inter mandate de hoc
te?'miwo ... ... ... ... ... ... xiij li. vj s. viij d.

139.

1380, Sept. 29. — Account of Srembre and Philippot, Collectors of
Customs and ^Subsidies, under thesurvey of Chaucer, for the year
preceding. Payment o/«£10 to Chaucer.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31.]

LONDON/^. — Compotus Nicho/ai Brembre et Johararais Philippot',
Collectorww Custumarum et Suteidiorum predictorwm in Portu et
locis predictis, per bre?^e prediction., videlicet, de bmusnwdi Custumts
et Subsidiis a festo Sawc^i Mich«eZis, anno tercio, ante quod festum
ijdem Collectores inde computarunt inmcdiate supra, vsq?te festum
Sancti MichaeZis proximo sequels, per visum et testimonium OalfrtWi
Chaucer, Contmrotulatoris earw/idem Custumarw??i et Subsidiorum
Regis ibidem. A quo quidem festo Sancti Mich«eZis, anno quarto,
ijdem Collectors sunt inde computaturi.

*****
Summa ~Recepte — xxiiij M1 C iiijxx li. vij s. vj d. qwa. * * *
Et prefato Contrarctfw/or*', pro v&diis suis, x li. * * *

140.

1380, Nov. 28. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuities ; and
payment of tJie balance of his expenses to Lombardy.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 4 Ric. II., m. 8. Nicolas, note R,]

1 " p/vprius," iu the roll.

1380. CHAUCER'S Loiribardy costs, $ his Wife's Annuity paid. 229

§ Die Mercun)', xxviij0 Nouembris.

Galfnrfus 'I GalfhWo Chaucer, cui Dommws Rex TLdwardus, auus
Chaucer. / Regis hums, xx marcos annwos ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono se?'uicio per ipswm
eidem Domino Regi Rdwardo impenso, per l^eras suas patentes
concessit, quas quidem Utetas Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denams sibi liberatw, per maims p?*oprias, in persoluciowera x
mnYcarum sibi liberandarww de huiws??zooJ£ certo suo, videlicet, pro
termitto MichaeZis proximo preterite, per brewe suum de libe?*ate, inter
mandata de hoc termino ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfntZo, cui Do??imws Rex nunc xviij0 die Aprtlis anno
Regni sui primo xx marcas annwas ad Scoccarittm ad totam vitam
suam percipiendos, p?-o bono seruicio per ips^m eidem Domino Regi
impenso, et in recompensaciowem vnius picher&' vini eidem GalfnWo
per dictum Dominum Regem auu??^ concess^, quoh'oet die in portu
Ciuitatis Londoni'e, per manus Pincerne eiusdem Dommi Regis et
heredum suoru??i, ad tota?w vitam eiusdem Galfrz'cft percipiend*, vltra
p?*edtc#as xx marcas sibi per p/*edec^wm auuw concessas, et per dictum.
Dominum Regem [nunc] confirmatas, per foYeras suas patentes coii-
cessit : In denam's sibi libe?'ates, per manus proprias, in persolueionem
x m&Tcarum sibi liberanda?•w??^ de \m\usmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro
termiwo Michae/is prox*??io preterite, per brezie suum de libe?*ate, inter
mandato de hoc termi?io ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Galfr/tto, in denam's sibi liberat/s, per manus proprias, in
persoluciVwew xiiij li. sibi debitarzm per compotii?^ secum facforai x ad
Scaccarium Gompotorum de recept/s, vadiis, et expense's suis
p?'oficiscendo in Nuncio Regis ad partes Lumbardie, anno prt'mo
regni Ricar^i secundi, per bre?«e de priuato sigillo, inter mandata de
termino Pasche proximo preterite ... ... ... xiiij li.

141.

1381, Feb. 1. — Half-yearly payment of Philippcu Chaucer's annuity,
to her husband.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 4 Ric. II., m. 17.]
§ Die Vene?'is, pr/mo die Febrwary.

Plu'Zt^pa \"Philippe Chaucer, nuper vni de domicellis Phz7^e,
Chaucer. / nuper Regine Angh'e, cui Dominus Rex ^Ldwardus, auus
Regis hums, x marcas annwas ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam percipiendas, p?*o bono seruicio per ipsam eidem Plu%pe
nuper Re^'ne dum vixit impenso, per hYeras suas patentes nuper
concessit, quas quidem b'leras Dominus Rex nuwc confirmauit in
forma p?-edi'c^a : In denam's sibi libe?*ates, per manws Galfri^i

1 See No. 122.

230 A.D. 1381. Cup for CHAUCER'S Wife. £22 for his French costs.

Chaucer, mariti sui, in persolucionem v marcarum sibi liberandarw???,
de huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de termino Michae/is p?*oxi??zo
preterite, per breue suu??i de liberate, inter mandala de hoc t/'.r-
mino ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

142.

1381, March 6. — Payment for a New-year's gift by John of Gaunt to
PhUippa Chaucer of a silver-gilt cup with cover.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 14, ff. 48 b, 49. Nicolas, note DD.]

Johan, [par la grace de Dieu, Roy de Castille et de Leon, Due de
Lancastre,] etc., A nostie trescher et bien ame Clerc, Sire William
Oke, Clerc de nostre g?*«nde Garderobe, saluz. Nous vous mandons
qwe des issues de vostre Receite en nosfre Chambre facez paier as
persones sousnommez les parcel les sousescr/tes, cestassauoir : *
* * Et a Robert Fransois pwr deux hanapes oue couercles
dargent et sworrez de lui achatez et par nous donez, lun de eux a
"Phelippe Chaucy nieisrne le iour [le iour de Ian Renoef, Ian quart],
dys liures, quatorsze soldz, et deux deniers.1 * * * Et
cestes noz lettres vous enserront garrant. Done etc., a nostr&
Chastel de Leycestre, le vj. iowr de Marcz, Ian etc. quart. [4 Ric. II.]

143.

1381, March 6. — Gift of £22 by the King to Chaucer, as compensa
tion for his wages and expenses in going to France in the time of
Edward ///. to treat of a peace, and again to negotiate a
marriage between Richard //. and a French Princess?

[Issue Roll, Mich., 4 Ric. II., m. 21. Nicolas, note R.]
§ Die Mercury, vjto die Marcij.

Galfr/cZus "\ Galfr?Wo Chaucer, Armige?'o Regis : In denam's sibi
Chaucer. / liberat^X per manus proprias, per assignac^owe??^ sibi
factam isto die, in persoluc^owem xxij li., quas Dominus
Rex sibi liberare mandauit de dono suo, in recompensacio?iem
vadiorw??i suorwm et custuu??i per ipsu??i factoium eundo tarn tempore
Regis ~Kdwardi, aui Regts huiz^, in Nuncio eiusdem aui ve?*sus
Mounstreir et Parys', in partibws Franci'e, causa tractatus pacis
pendentis inter precU'c^m auum et aduersarm?>i suu?>j Francie, quam
tempore Domini Regis nunc causa locuciowis halite de maritagio inter
ipswm Dominum Regem nunc et filiam eiusdem aduersarij sui
France, per brewe de prmaf o sigillo hoc termino . . . xxij li.

1 It is not stated what was done with the other one. Another cup, costing
405., is stated lower down to have been given on the same day to Marjorie
Devncourte. Gold cups were given to the King and others.

^ See Nos. 101, 102, 123.

1381. Elizabeth Chancy, a Nun. A nnuities of CHAUCER <J- Wife. 231

144.

1381, May 12. — Warrant by John of Gaunt fw payment of 511. 8s. 2d.

for expenses and gifts when Elizabeth Chancy was made a Nun

in Barking Abbey.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 14, f. 46.]

Pur Sire 1 Johan, [par la g?-ace de Dieu Roy de Castille

'William Oke, j- et de Leon, Due de Lancastre,] etc., A nosttQ trescher
Gardrober. J et bien ame Clerc, Sire William Oke, Clerc de
nostie grant Garderobe, saluz. Nous vous man-
dons que des issues de vostfre Receite facez paier les so??^mes
souescrites as persones souznowmez, cestassauoir : A nostie bien amee
Isabelle de Kelseye xiij li. vj s. viij d., pur diuerses expenses et
coustages par lui faitz a loeps de nosfre treschere fille, Katerine
Despaigne, auant que nosfre dite fille feust assignez destre ouesqwe la
Dame de Mohon'. * * * Et outre ce, facez paier des
issues de \ostre dite Receite cynquante vne liures, oyt soldz, et deux
deniers pur diuerses coustages et despenses et douns faitz pur
Elizabeth Chaucy, au temps que la dict& Elizabeth' feust fait
Nonnaigne en labbee de Berkyng'. Et volons que par cestes vous
eneiez due allouance en vostre aconte. Done etc., a la Sauuoye, le
xij. iowr de May, Ian, etc., quart. [4 Ric. II.] l

145.

1381, May 24. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's and his wife's
annuities, to himself.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 4 Ric. II., m. 5. Godwin, App. xvi., from Rymer's
MSS. Nicolas, note DD.]

§ Die Veneris, xxiiij. die Maij.

GalfnWus ) GalfhWo Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex 'Edwardus, anus
Chaucer, j Regis huius, xx mareas smnuas ad Scaccan'wm ad totam
vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio pe?* ipsum
eidem ~Domino Regi "Edwardo impenso, per 1/feraa suas patentes con-
cessiti quas quidem kYeras Domimis Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denam* sibi liberatis, per assign«a'o?^e??^ sibi f&ctam isto [die], in
persolucionem x maicarum sibi li\)erandarum de \\musmodi zerio suo,
videlicet, pro termino Pasche vltimo p?*eterito, per brewe snwn de
liberate hoc termira> vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Galfratfo, cui Dommus Rex nuiic xx marcas anmtas ad
iScaccarmm ad totam vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per
ipsum eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, et in recompen-
sactowem vnius pichere vini eidem GalfrttZi per dictum Dominum

1 This was alluded to by Prof. Hales in the Athenaeum, March 31, 1888,
p. 404, but without any reference. It is difficult to find such an entry in the
Duchy records, as the Catalogues are very meagre, and mention comparatively
few names. Prof. Hales suggests that this Elizabeth may have been a daughter
of the poet.

232 A.D. 1381. c.'s Wife's Annuity. His Sale of his Father's House.

Regem. "Edivardum smum concede, quolioet die in portu Ciuitatis
Londonie, per manus Pincerne eiusdem Regis aui et heredum suorwm,
ad totam vita?ra ipsius Galfridi percipiende, vltra predicts xx
niarcas sibi per dictum auu??i coucessas et per dictum Domimim
Regem mine continna&w, per literas suas patentes concessi£ : In
denarii's eibi liberates, per eande??i assignacio?*em, in persoluciowcm x
m&Tcarum sibi liberandarwm de "huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro
term wo Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe suuw de liberate, inter
mandato de hoc termi?io ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

"PliilippB, \ flbilippe Chaucer, nuper uni domicellarww PhiZipj?e,
Chaucer. / nuper Regine Anglie, cui Dominws Rex Edwardus, auus
Regis huiws, x maiYm* annwa.9 ad Scaccarmm ad totam vitam
suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio pe?' ipsam tarn eidem Domino
Regi quam diets Regine impenso, per U7e?*as suas patentes nuper
concessit, quas quidem UVeras Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denams sibi Iibe?*ati5 per manus p?'edi'c£i Galfri^i, mariti sui, in
persoluciOTiem v waxcarum sibi liberandarw?w de \miusmodi certo suo,
videlicet, pro termitto Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe suu??^ de
liberate, inter mandafa de hoc ternwio Ixvj s. viij d.

146.

1381, June 19. — Release by Geoffrey Cliaucer, son of John Cliaucer,
Vintner, of London, to Henry fferbnry, of a tenement in St.
Martin's in the Vintry, extending from Thames Street to the
Water of Walbrook, which had belonged to his father.

[Husting Roll, 110, No. 8.]

PLACITA TEBRE, tenta in Hustengo Londome, die Lune proximo
post festum Sancte Margarete Virginis, anno regni Regis Ricardi
secwwdi quinto.

Scriptum Henrici \ Nouerint vniuersi me, Galfrie?«m Chaucer,
Herbury, vinetarij, f filium Johannis Chaucer, vinetar(/ Londone'e,
per Galfr/^wm C remisisse, relaxasse, ac onmino pro me, heredi&ws,
Chaucer. ) et executoribws meis imperpe^Mm quietumcla-

masse Henrico Herbury, ciui et vinetario diefe
Ciuitatis, totum ius meu??^ et clameum quod vnqwam ha&ui, ha&eo,
seu quouismodo iniuturum haoere potero in quodam tenemento situato
in parochia Sancti Martini in Vinetria Londom'e, inter tenementum
Wille/?ni le Ganger, versus orientem, et tenementum quod quondam
fuit Johannis le Mazelyner, versus occidente?7i, et extendit se in
longitudine a vico regio de Thamystrete, versus austru?^, vsqz^e ad
aquam de Wallebroke, versus aquilone??^, et quod quidem ienementum
dictus Henricws modo ha&et et possidet, et nuper fuit predict
Johawwis, pa^ris mei ; ita, videlicet, quod nee ego, predicts GalfrzWus,
nee herede* mei, nee aliquis alius nomine nostro, aliquid iuri^ vel
clamij in predicto tcmemento cum suis pertinenciis, nee in aliqua

1381. An Advance to CHAUCER. His Survey of Collectors' Accounts. 233

p^rcella eiusdem, decetero exigere, vendicare, seu reclamare poterimws
nee debemw-s infuturaw, set ab onmi acciowe iuris e£ clami; inde
simws exclusi per presentes imperpefwwm. In cuiws rei testiwowiwm
huic p?-esenti scripto sigillum meu?ft apposui. Datum Londonie,
decimo nono die mensis Junij, anno regni Regis "Ricardi secwwdipost
conquestu??i quarto.

147.

1381, Aug. 1. — Advance offts. Sd. to Chaucer on account of one of
his annuities.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 4 Ric. II., m. 12.]
§ Die Jouis, pr/mo die Augusti.

GalfritZus 1 GalfhVZo Chaucer, armigero, cui Dominus Rex Edwardtis,
Chaucer. J auus Regis hums, xx mar<m annwos ad Scaccarium ad
totam vitam suam percipiendo^, pro bono seniicio per
ipsum eidem Domino TZdwardo Regi impenso, per hVeras suas paten tes
concessit, quas quidem Uterus Domiuus Rex mine confirmauit : In
denam's sibi libe?*at^ de p?*estito super huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet,
de iermino Michaels 'proximo futuro ... ... vj s. viij d. ; vnde

Respondebit.

[In margin :]

Liberator ad Scoccartum Compotorum, xx° die Junt}', &nno vjto.

148.

1381, Sept. 29. — The original Account of Niclwlas Brembre and
John P/iilippot, (here called Knights,) Collectors of Customs
under the survey of Chaucer, for the year preceding.

[Exchequer Accounts, Q. R., Customs, V-]

LONDONM. — Particttli x Compoti NichoZcii Erembre et Johannis
Philippot, Milituw, Collec^or?6?^ Gustumarum et Subsidiorum Reg/s
lanarwm, pe]h'w??i Inmitarum, et coiiorum in Portu London', videlicet,
de exitib?^ eorw/nlem Cusbumarum et Subsidwrttm Regis ibidem,
a festo Sa^c^i MichaeZis, anno q?<arto, vsqwe festum Sancti Michae/is
proxi^io sequens, per visu?>i et testimo?iium G&lfridi Chaucer, Con-
trorotulatorw eorw?idem CustumorMOT et Subsidiorum Regi« ibidem.

[This heading is written in such a peculiar handwriting that the question
suggests itself whether it may not be that of one of the Customers, or even of
Chaucer himself. It was clearly executed by one unaccustomed to clerical work,
and it is very different from the rest of the account, which is in a beautiful
handwriting, covering ten membranes. The names of ships, shipowners, and
merchants (i^idigctwe and alienigence), the quantities of goods, and the amounts
of the Customs received are stated in columns, which is an uncommon feature in
accounts of this period. See also No. 180.]

1 Sic; usually " Particule."
LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 16

234 CHAUCER'S Survey of Collectors' Accounts. His Annuities paid.

149.

1381, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Philippot, Collectors of
Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer, for the year
preceding. Payment of £10 to Oliaucer.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31.]

COMPOTUS Nicho/rti Brembre et Johannis Philippe^, Collectorum
Custum«rww et Subsidiorum lanarww. pelliuw lanutarwra, et
coriomm in Portu Londom'e, per brewe Regis patens, datum xxiiijto
die Angusti, anno primo, penes ipsos Co\\edores remaned, videlicet,
de GxitibuB eanwdetn Custumaraw, et SnbBidiorum Regis ibidem,
a festo Sancti MichaeZis, anno quarto, ante quod festum ijdem
Collectores inde computara?i£ inmediate supra,1 vsqwe festum Sancti
MichaeZis proximo seqwens, per visum et testimonium Galfrirfi
Chaucer, Contrarotulatoris earundem Custumarum et Suhsidiorum
Regis ibidem. A quo quidem festo ijdem NichoZaus et Johannes,
Co\\ectores ibidem, sunt inde computaturi.

*****
["Eleven rolls of the Controller, of parcels, delivered into the Treasury," are
referred to. See No. 148.]

Sztmnza Recede — xxiij MilKa Ixij li. xix s. j d. * * *
Et prefato Contrarotulatori, pro vadiis suis, x li. * *

150.

1381, Nov. 16. — Half-yearly payment of one of Chaucer's annuities,
and an advance of 6s. 8d. on the other.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 5 Ric. II., m. 9.]
§ Die Sabbafi, xvj° die Nouembm.

GalfrzVZas 1 GalfriV?o Cliaucer, cui "Dominus Rex nunc xx mwas
Cliaucer. J umiuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam pey-cipiendas,
pro bono seruicio per ip^^m eidem Domino Regi impenso
et impendendo, et in recompensac^owem vnius pichere vini eidem
Galfr^Zo per dictum T)oniinum Regem J&dwardum, &u\wi Regis
Imius. coucesse qnoh'&et die in portu Ciuitatis London ie, pe?' mauus
Pincerne eiusdem Regis aui et herecliiHi snorum, ad totam vitam
ip^ius Galfri'cZi percipiende, vltra xx maxcas sibi per dictum. a,m\m
concessas, et per Dominum Regem nunc conflrinata^, per literas
patents conce,s,^Y : In denarm* sibi liberate, per assignacz'o?iem sibi
factam isto die, in persoluc/ottew x iii&rcarum sibi liberandarww de
"hiiiusniodi cerio suo, videltV-et, pro te/-mi«o Miclirte/is proximo
preterito, per brews suuw de liberate, inter mandate de hoc te?'nii?w

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfriV/o, cui Dominus Ilex ILdwardus, amis Regis hums,
xx marc'W ann?tflw ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipiendas,
pro bono seruicio per ipswni eidem Domino ~Erlicwdo Regi impenso,
1 i. e. on the same roll. See No. 139.

1381. Ejftra Payment to CHAUCER. Hisfyhis Wife's Annuities. 235

per ItYeras suas patentee concessit, quas quideni litevas Dominus Rex
nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi liberat/s, per eaudem assignac^orcewi,
de prestito super huiusmodi certo suo ... vj s. viij d. ; vnde

Respondebit.

[In the margin of the latter entry :]
Liberatzw ad Seaccarmm Compotorum xx° die Juuij, unno vjto.

151.

1381, Nov. IS.— Payment to Brenibre and Philippot of .£20 e«c/«,
awZ to Chaucer of 10 marks, for their diligence in collecting tlie
Customs and Subsidies.^

[Issue Roll, Mich., 5 Ric. II., m. 10.]
§ Die Jouis, xxviij0 die Nouembris.

NichoZrtus Brembre, ) Nicho/ao Brenibre et Joha?irai Philippot,

Johannes Philippot. / Collectoribws Custume et Subsidij Regis in

Portu London /e, ac GalfrtWo Chaucer, Contra-

rotulatori eoruradem in Portu pralt'clo : In denam's eis liberatis, per
8LS8iguacionem sibi fac^ain isto die, nomine suo prop?'/o,2 pro as^iduo
labore et diligencia per ip.?os appositis in officiis [suis] in anno vltimo
elapso circa collecct'o^era denaiioittm prouenienciwm de eisdem
Custuma et SubszV?w in anno vltimo elapso, videlicet, cuilibei
predictoTum Collectorwm xx li., et predicto Contrarotula^o/1/ x marrow,
per brewe generale de priuato sigillo, inter inandafci de hoc termino

xlvj li. xiij s. iiij d.
152.

1381, Dec. 21. — Half-yearly payment of on? of Chaucer's annuities,
and of his toife's.

[Ibid., m. 14.]

§ Die Sablwtfi, xxj° die DecembraV.

GalfrtV/us | GalfriVZo Chaucer, cui Dominm Rex nunc xx marcas
Chaucer. J nnnuas ad &Goccarium ad totain vitam suam ad termiTios
Sancti Mich^e/is et Pasclie per equales porciones pe?*ci-
piendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsum ei<Jem Do;«mo Regi impenso
et irnpendendo, per kYeras suas patentes concesait : In denarm sibi
liberate, per &ssign&cionem sibi fticfam isto die, in persolucionem x
mzrcarum sibi Yiber&ndarum de huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro
termino Sancti Michoe/ts proximo preterite, per brewe suu??i de
liberate de magno sigillo, inte>' mando£a de hoc te?'mi«o

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Pltt7/pj>a 1 "ShiUpfM Chaucer, nuper vni Domicellai-Mwi T?\\ilippe,

Chaucer. J nuper Regine Angh'e, cui Dominus Rex "Edward us, auus

Regis hui^s, x m&icas samuas ad Scaccarium ad totam

1 This out-of-the-way entry was pointed out by " Hermentrude " in Notes and
Queries, 3 S. viii. 367. Other similar entries have been found since.

2 That is to say, by assignment upon the Collectors, payable, out of the
moneys received by them, "to themselves and to the Controller." — Receipt
Roll of this date.

236 CHAUCER, Controller of the Petty Custom. His Wife's Cup.

vitam suam p^rcipiendrts, pro bono seruicio per ipsam tarn eidcm
T)o?nino Regi q^am predictG Regine impenso, per KZeras suas patentes
concem'1, quas quidem liferas Do/ratims Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denam'tf sibi liberate*, per pred/c/arn assignaceo^ew, in persolucitfwew
v maimruHi sibi liberandarww de huiwswod* certo suo, videh'ce£, pro
termmo Michr/eZis proximo preterito, per brewe suuw de liberate,
inter mimdafrt de hoc termwo ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

153.

1382, April 20. — Grant to Chaucer of the office of Controller of the
Petty Custom in the Port of London, during tJte King's pleasure.
(See also No. 155.)

[Patent Roll, 5 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 21 ; and Chancery Warrants, series I., file 1565.]
De eontrarotula- ) Re.r, Omnibus ad quos etc. Sciatis, qwod con-
tore constitute. ) cessirazt# dilec^o nobis GalfrwZo Chaucer official
Coiitrarotulatoris parue Custumo nostre in portu
Londome, btfJondttm qwamdiu nobis placnerit, pe/'cipiendo in officio
illo va<iia consueta ; volentes qz<od altent pars sigilli no^ri, quod
dicitwr Coket, in portu pr&licto, in custodia ip6jius GalfrzV?i remaneat,
quamdiu officiu??i ha/merit sii\>radictum. In cui?^ etc. Texte Re^/e,
apud Vfestmonasterium, xx. die Aprils.

Per billam Thesaurarij.1

154.

1382, May 6. — Payment for a New-year's gift by John of Gaunt to

Philippa Chaucer of a silver-gilt cup with cover.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, Vol. 14, ff. 606, 61. Nicolas, note DD.]

fur le gra?ide \ Johan, [par la grace de Dieu, Roy de Castille et de

Garderobe — • >Leon, Due de Lancastre,] e^c., A nosfre tresche?1 et

Oke. j bien ame Clerc, Sire William Oke, Clerc de nos/re

Garderobe, saluz. Nous vous mandons que des

issues de vostrQ Receite en nos^re Chambre facez paier as persones

souznomees les sowmes desouzescritcs, cestassauoir : * * * Et a

Adam Bamme, pur le pois de ix liauapes one couercles dargent et

s?«?*orrez des diuersos pois de lui achetez, et par nous donez, lime al

Maistresse nosfre tresame compaigne le dit iowr \i. e., le iow?* de Ian

Renoef], le second a INIonszewr 'Richard de Eureley, le tierz a

"Monsieur Thomas Morreux, le quart a Dame Blanche, sa compaigne,

le quint a "Philippe Chaucy, le sisme a Sire de Vertyne, le vijme al

Collecto?/?* no^re tresseint pier le P«pe de nostre doun, vynt liures,

1 This refers to the "Chancery Warrant," at the end of which are these
words : " Fiant conshniles \itcre patentes pwf'ato Galfrz^o ad facienditm et
excercendii/Ti officiu?/t p^vdic^wm per se vel sufficientem deputatum pro quo
respomlere voluerit." (See No. 155.) There is also a brief "fiat" by the
Treasurer of England to the Lord Chancellor for a "commission " appointing
Chaucer as Controller.

'1382. CHAUCER, Controller of the Petty Custom. His Annuities. 237

sys soldz, cynk dcniers, et mail ; et pur la fesure et swrorre des ditz
ix hanapes et couercles, xvij li. vj s. v d. ob. * * * Et cestes noz
le/fres vous enserront garrant. Done etc., a Westmo taster, le vj. iour
do May, Ian etc. quint. [5 Ric. II.]

155.

1382, May 8.— Grant to Chaucer of the office of Controller of the
Petty Custom in the Port of London, with " the other part " of
tlie " Coket " seal. (See also No. 153.)

[Patent Roll, 5 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 15. Godwin, App. xvii.]
De contrarotula- 1 R&e, Ommbws ad qiros etc., salutem. Sciatis, qwod
tore constitute. J concesshmor dilecfo nob^ GalfreWo Chaucer
officium Contmrntulatoris parue Custuine nosfre
in Portu Londom'e, \\ctlendiim et exeercendtttft per se vel sufficientcm
dopntatum sun?ft, pro quo respewidere voluerit, qwcmidiu nob/s
placuerit, percipieiido in offteio illo vadia coasueta; volentes qwod
altera p«?*s sigilli nosfri, quod dicitwr Coket, in Portu predt'cfo, in
custodia ipsius GalfnV/i sen d/e/i depwtati sui renianeat, q?«aiiidin
officium hrt&uerit sup;-rtd/c/?/in. In cuius e#e. Tt^/e R<?i/e, apud
Westmono^feritfiR, viij. die Maij.

Per billam ThesaurariJ.1

156.

1382, May 10. — Half-yearly • ytaijment of one of C hauler's annuities,
and part-payment of the other.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 5 Ric. II., m. 2.]

§ Die Sabbart, x° die Maij.

GalfnWus ) Galfr/Jo Chaucer, cui Dommus Rex mine xx marcas
Chaucer, j annwos ad Scaccarium ad totam vitani suam pempiendcw,
pro bono se?-uicio per ipswm eidem Damiuo Regi impenso
et impendendo, ef in recompensacionem vnius picbere vini eidem
Galfr/Jo per Dominion Regem ILeltoardum, auu?;i Regis \mius, concesse
qvLolibet die in portu Ciuitatis London^ per maims Pince?-ne eiusdem
Regis aui et heredtfm snorum, ad totam- vitam ipsius Galfr/(Zi
pe/'cipiende, vltra xx niarctw sibi pe?" dictimi auu?/i conce^'rts et
per dictum Dominum Regem nunc coufirmato^ per hYeras suas
patentes concesnit : In denam's sibi liberate, per assignac/owem sibi
frtc^am isto die, in persohicionem x m&rcaruni sibi liber andanini de
limusmodi certo suo, videl/cet, pro termiwo Pasclie proximo, per breue
suum de liberate, inter mandofce de hoc iermitio ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfhWo, cui Dommus Rex ~Edwardus, auus Regis huius,
xx marcas zmiuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipiendrtts-,
pro bono se?'nicio per ipsum eidem Domino l&dwanlo Regi impenso,
pe>' hYeras suas pateutes eonce^Y, quas quidem leYeras Domimia Rex
nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi libe/'ati?, pe?1 eandem assignacz'orcew,

1 There is no copy of this among the Chancery Warrants, but see note to No. 153.

238 CHAUCER'S and his Wife's Annuities. His Survey of Accounts.

in p#rtem soltic/owis x marcarww sibi liberandarww de \\\\.\usmodi
certo suo, videlicet, pro termino Pasclie vltimo preterite, per brewe
suuwi de liberate, inter mandafa de hoc termiwo . . . Ixvj s. viij d.1

157.

1382, July 22. — Payment of the balance of one of Chaucer's
annuities, due at Easter last ; and half-yearly payment of his
wife's annuity.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 5 Ric. II., m. 12.]

§ Die Martis, xxij° die Julij.

GalfhVftis \ GalfhVZo Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex "Edwardus, anus
Chaucer. / Regis hums, xx marcog axmuas ad Scaccarmm ad totam
vitam suam pe?'cipiendos, pro bono seruicio per ipswm
eidem Domino Ifcdwardd Regi impenso, per liferas suas patentee
concern'^, quas quidem lifcras Domimis Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denam's sibi liberate, per assignaci/me??z sibi facfam isto die, in
persoluciotte??i x marcamw sibi liberandarw?^ de hnmsmodi certo suo,
videHcet, pro iermino Pasche proximo preterite, pe?' bre^e suu?^ de
liberate hoc termmo ............... Ixvj s. viij d.

} Ph/Z/^e Chaucer, nuper vni domicellarw?>i
Chaucer. / nuper Regine Angl/e, cui T>ominu$ Rex Edwardus, auus
Regis huius, x marcas ann^o^ ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono servicio per ipsam tarn eidem
Domino Regi quam Philippe, nuper Regine Angh'e, impenso, per
h'feras suas patentee concessit, quas quidem liter&s Dominus Rex nunc
confirmauit : In denarm1 sibi liberates, per eandem assignac^o«e??i, in
persoluc^e??* v m&rcarum sibi liberandarww de huiusmodi certo suo,
videlicet, pro te>*mi^o Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe smim de
libe?*ate, inter mandato de hoc termmo ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

158.

1382, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Philippot, Collectors of
Customs and /Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer, for the year
pi-eceding. Payment of .£10 to Chaucer. He testifies that the
weights for weighing ivools in the Weigh-house had been renewed.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31.]

COMPOTUS Nichofai Brembre et Johannis Philippot, Collectorzm
Custumarwm et Svibsidwrum lanarw?«, pellium lanutartfJW, et coiiorum
in Portu Londonie, per brewe Regis patens, datw?^ xxiiijto die
Augusti, anno primo, penes ipsos Collec/o?*es remane?^, videlicet, de
exitibw-s earw^dem Ciisiumarum et Snbsidiorum "Regis ibidem, a festo
Scmc^i Mich«e?is, anno quinto, ante quod festum ijdem Collectores
inde computarunt inmediate supra,2 vsque festum Sanct'i Michaelis

1 The balance of this annuity, due at Easter, was not paid till 22nd July.
The Treasury seems to have been short of money at this time.
a See No. 149.

1382. CHAUCER'S Sttroey of Customs-Collector J Accounts. 239

proximo seqwens, per visum et testiwomwm Oalfr/Vfi Chaucer,
Contrarotulatoris eam«dem Custutuorww et Snhsidiorum Regis
ibidem. A quo quidem festo ijdcm Nicholas et Jobantios, Col-
\ectores ibidem, sunt hide computaturi.

* * * *

[Eleven rolls of the Controller are referred to, as bsfore, hut they are not extant.]
Summa Recede — xxvj M'DCCxliij li. xiiij s. vij d. ob. qua.
* * * Et prefato Coutrarotulatori, pro vadiis suis, x li. * * *
Et in denam's solut& per ipsos pro ponderib?« innouatis pro lanis
ponderandi* in domo Pesagij lanarww in Ciuitate Londom'e, ixli.
vj s. viijd., per breue llegis de priuato sigillo, iwotulato in
Memoranda de anno vj*0 "Regis bmus, termino Michae/is, et per
testiwionittra GalfrvVi Chaucer, Coutrarotulatorw dicfoium Custum-
anun et Subsidiorum in eodem Portu. * * *

159.

1382, Sept. 29. — Account of John Organ and Walter Sibill, Collectors
of [Petty] Customs, under the survey of John Hyde and Geoffrey
Chaucer, successively Comptrollers, for the year preceding.
[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 39.]

COMPOTUS Johtmrais Organ et Walteri Sibill', Collectorum Custum-
arum Regis in Portu Londome, et in singulis locis abinde ex vtraqug
prtrte aque Thamis/e vsque Grauesende, et ibidem t et exinde ex p«>'te
Essex' vsque Tillebury, et ibidem, Custumis lanam?», coriorwwi, et
pellium lanutarwm except/a, per bteue Regis patens, datw??i xxvij0 die
Marcij, anno quarto, penes ipsos Collectors remanens, videlicet, de
exitibus buitumodi Oiutumartim a festo Sancki Michaels, anno
quinto, ante quod festum iidem Jobawms et Walterus alias inde
computarww/ inmediate sup?*a, vsque festw«« Saticti Michae/is, anno
sexto, per visum et testimoniu/M Johawit's Hyde et Galfri^i Chaucer,
successiue ContrurotulatorttTT* Cusinmarum predict&rum. A quo
quidem festo pretltvti Johawwes Organ et Walterus sunt inde
computaturi.

* * * * *

Swmwii Rece/^e— DCCCCxxixli. xij s. vj d. ob. qua. Et
lespondent in Tiotulo quinto, in Adhuc Item London/a.1

160.

1382, Sept. 29— Doc. 5.— Account of John Organ and Walter Sibill,
Collectors of Customs, under the survey of Chaucer.

[Pipe Roll, 6 Ric. II.]
ADHUC ITEM LONDON/^.

Joharcwes Organ et Walterus Sibill', Collectorcs CustumarMMi
Regis in Portu Londome, Custumis lanarw?», corioium, et pellium

1 Their further account on the Pipe Roll does not mention ^Chaucer. Rent
was paid for a house " for collecting and keeping the Customs in."

240 1382. Payments of Annuities to CHAUCER # Ids Wife.

lanutarum exceptis, leddunt compotum de Clxx li. vs. j d. de
iQmanentia compoft sui de exitibus CvLstuwarum predictar^w,
videlicet, a festo Sawctfi Michae/is, anno vj*°, vsqiie quintum diem
Decembris proximo sequentem, per visum et testimoniu?^ GalfnV/i
Chaucer, Contrarotula£o?-es Custiimarum predict-dium, sicut con-
tinetur in compose suo inde, Rotulo Compotorum de hmiismodi
Custumis. Et DCiij li. xj s. j d. qua. de eisdem Custumis, pro
JdhannG Organ et Waltero Rauf , Collectoribus ibidem, videlicet, a
quinto die Decembm, anno sexto, vsque festum Sancti Michae/is,
anno vij°, per testimoniuw pred^cft GalfHcZi, sicut continetur in
compo^o suo inde, dicto ~Rotulo Compotorum de Custum^.1 * * *
Et debent Cxxiiij li. xix s. x d. ob.

[In margin :] Exonemntur in ~Rotulo

161.

1382, Nov. 11. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer1 s two annuities,
and of his wife's.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 6 Ric. II., m. 5.]
§ Die Martis, xj° die Nonembris.

GalfhVftis ) Galfr*V?o Chaucer, cui Dominus Eex nunc xx marcos
Chaucer. / annwas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipiend«5,
p?'o bono se?'uicio per ipswm eidem Domino E-egi impenso
et impendendo, et in recompensac/owem vnius pichere vini eidem
Galfr^o per Dominum Regem TLdivardum, auum Regis huius, concede,
quoH'^et die in portu Ciuitatis London^'e, per manus Pince?-ne eiusdem
Regis Edwardi aui et heredum suor?/m, ad totam vitarn suam ipsius
GalfrtWi pe?4cipienti (sic), vltra xx marcas sibi per dictum auu??i con-
cessas, et per d^um Dominum Regem nunc confirmatas, per hVeras
suas patentee concessit : In denarm sibi liberate, videh'ce^, per assigna-
cionem sibi f&ctam isto die, Cs., et in moneta per manus proprias
xxxiij s. iiij d. , in persoluc^o/iew xx marcanm sibi liberanda?'w??i de
huuismodi certo suo, videh'cet, pro te?Tnifto Sa^c^i MichaeZis proximo
preterito, per brewe suum de liberate, inte?' mandato de hoc termi^o

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Galfr/rZo, cui Dominm Rex ~Edivardus, auus Regis huius,
xx marcrts axmuas ad Scaccan'wm ad totam vitam suam percipiendos,
pro bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Do/;mio JLdwardo Regi impenso,
per liter&s suas patentes conce-s^Y, quas quidem hYeras Dominus Rex
nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi liberat^^, pe?* predictam assig-
n&cionem, in persoluc^o?ze?>i x maxcarum sibi liberand«?'w??i de huiws-
modi certo suo, videlicet, pro terwmo Pasche (sic) proximo preterito,
per brewe suuwi de libe?*ate, inter mandate de hoc termiwo

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

1 See No. 167.

2 i. e. in Pipe Roll, 7 Ric. II. No payment to Chaucer is there mentioned.
See also Pipe Roll, 8 Ric. II.

1 382. c.'s Survey of Collectors' Accounts. Extra Payment to Mm. 241

J?hfl.ippSL ) "Philippe Chaucer, nuper vni domicellam??? "Philippe,
Chaucer, j nuper Regine Angh'e, cui Dominus Rex "Rdwardus, anus
Regis huius, x rnnrcas anuuas ad Scaccamum ad totam
vitam suam percipiend«s, pro bono se?'uicio per ipsam tarn eidem
J)omino TZdivardo Regi qwam predicts Regine inipenso, per UYeras
suas patentes concessit, quas quidem hYeras I)o»Mtms Rex nnnc
confirmauit : In denam's sibi liberat/s, per manus eiusdeni Galfridi,
in persolucionem v ni<\rc.aruni sibi liberandarw???. de huittf9H0c?t certo
suo, videhVet, pro ternuVio Mich«e/is proximo prekerito, per hreue
snu?» de libe/'ate, inter manda^t de hoc termino ... Ixvj s. viij d.

162.

1382, Dec. 5. — Account of Organ and Sibill, Collectors of the [Petty]
Customs, under the survey of Chaucer, from 29i/i Sept. to
this date.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll. 14, m. 39 d.]

COMPOTUS Jolw/mis Organ et Wai ten SibilF, nnper Co\]ectomm
Custumarttm Regis in Portu London/e et in singulis locis abiude ex
vtraq?ze parte aque Thamis/e vsqiie Graueseude, et ibidem, et exinde
ex p«rte Essex' vsqwe Tillebury, et ibidem, Custumis lanar?/??i,
coriomm, et pelliuwi lanutar?f??i exceptis, per bre/«e Regis patens de
magno sigiUo, datum xxviij0 die Marcij, anno quarto, penes cU'cfr/m
Johawtem Organ remaner^, videlicet, de exit/6^ huiusmodi Custum-
arum a festo Sancti Michaelis, anno vjto, ante quod festu?M ijdem
Johannes et Walterus alias inde computarunt ex alia parte 'Rotuli,
vsque quintu???- diem Decembrz's proximo sequentew, per visum et
testimomu??^ Galfridi Chaucer, Contrarotula^o?*^ Oiistumarum
predtcferttm ; quo quidem quinto die Decembris Rex exonerauit
dictum. Walter^^m ab officio predicto, et assignauit W&lierum Rauf
loco suo ad dictum officiuw f&ciendtan cwn prefato Johawte Organ,
per brewe suum patens de magno sigillo dicto Waltero Rauf inde
directu??^, datum eodem quinto die Decembr^, anno sexto, et irwtula-
tum in Origina&faw de eodem anno, et penes ipsum Walterum
icmanens ; et a quinto die Decembm, anno sexto, ijdem Johannes
Organ et Waltems Rauf, Collectore*' ftyitlem, inde computarunt ex
alia p«rte Rotuli.1

*****

Summa Rec^»/e — Clxxli. vs. j d. Et lespondent in Rotulo vjto,
in Adhuc Item Londonia.2

163.

1382, Dec. 10. — Rewards to Brembre, Philippot, and Chaucer, as
before.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 6 Ric. II., m. 8.]

1 The account is really on the same side of the roll, lower down.

2 See No. 160.

242 1383. Advance to c. Payment of his $• his Wife's Annuities.

§ Die Mercury, x° die Decembm.

Nichofaus Brembre, \ Nicho/ao Brembre et Joha?mi Philippot,

Joh«?mes Philippot. / Cottectoribus Custume et SubstVi/ Regi* in

Portu Londonie, ac GalfhVZo Chaucer, Con-

trarotulatori eonmdem in Portu predicfo : In denariis eis liberates,
per assignaciowew sibi facfam isto die, nomine suo proprio, pro assiduo
labore et diligencia per ipsos appositis in officiis suis in anno vltimo
elapso circa collecciowem denariorw??i prooeniencttftTi de eisdem
Cust?/77?.a et SubsifZio in anno vltimo elapso, videlicet, cuili&et pre-
dictovim Collect&rum xx li. et Contrarotulatori x marcas, per brewe
gene?'ale de priuato sigillo, inter manda^a de hoc termi/zo

xlvj li. xiij s. iiij d.

164.

1383, Feb. 27. — Advance of 65. Sd. to Chaucer on account of his
yearly fez o/*40 marks.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 6 Ric. II., m. 15.]
§ Die Veneris, xxvij0 die Febrwrt?^}'.

GalfrwZus \ GalfrwZo Chaucer, armigero : In denan'is sibi liberat/*

Chaucer. J per man^ proprio de p?-estito super quodain feodo annuo

xl m&rcarum sibi per Regein concesso ad Scaccarium ad

totam vitani suam percipiendo ... ... vj s. viij d. ; vnde

Eespondebit.

[In margin :]
Liberator ad Scaccarium Compotontm xxx° Juu^/, a/mo vjto.

165.

1383, May 5. — Half-yearly pat/mints of Chaucer's annuities and his
wife's.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 6 Ric. II., m. 4.]
§ Die Martis, quinto die Maij.

Galfridus 1 Galfr/6?o Chaucer, armigero, cui Domimis Rex ^licardus,
Chaucer, j auus Regis huius, xx marcas annwas ad Scoccarmm ad
totam vitam suam percipiendos, pro bono seruicio per
ipswm eidem Domino Iklioardo Regi impenso, per hYeras suas patentes
concesstt, quas quidem hYeras Dominus Rex mine confirmauit : In
denarm- sibi liberate, per assignacio/iem sibi fac^ani isto die, in
persoluc/cwe??i x mxrcarum sibi liberandantm de \i\iiiismodi certo suo,
videlicet, p?'o tenmno Pasche proximo preterito, per bre^^e suum de
liberate, inter mandafa de hoc tenni?io ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Galfr/rfo, cui Dominus Rex mine xx marcas aniiua^ ad
Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipients, p?'o bono seruicio per
ip&Mm. eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, et in recoinpensa-
cio?iem vnius pichcre vini eidem Galfric^o per dict.um. Dommum
l^dwardum Regein, snium Regis liuiws, concede, quoli^et die in portu

1383. CHAUCER'S Survey of Customs- Collectors' Accounts. 243

Ciuitatis Londome, per manus Pincerne -eiusdem Regis aui et hereduro
suorum, ad to tain vitam ipsius GaifftV/i percipiende, vltra xx inarms
sibi per dictfum auuw coiicessas et per Dominion Rcgem nunc con-
firmatas, per k'feras suas patentee concessit : In denanYs sibi liberate,
per assignacione/n predtcfem, in persoluciowew x marca?*w?w sibi
liberandartutt de huit&muKft certo suo, vid«l/cet, pro termim) Pasche
proximo preterite, per brewe snum de liberate, inter mandafa de hoc
... ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

I "Philipjie Chaucer, nupe?* vni donricellarww
Chaucer. J nuper Regine AngU'e, cui Dominus Rex Wwardus, auue
Regis huius, xx marc-as amiuas ad Sc^cca/'mm ad totam
vitam smm percipiendoe per 1/leras suas patentes conces^//, quas
quidem hYeras Do?«mws Rex nunc confirmauit : In denaw/s sibi
liberated pe?* p?'edi'c^am assignaciVme/??, in pe?*soluc/o?ze/« v marcarwwz
sibi liberandondn de huitcamodi certo suo, videlicet, pro te?'iniwo
Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe suu?» de liberate, inter maiuWa
de hoc ter;?ii/io ... ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

166.

1383, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Philippot, Collectors of
Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer, for the
ytar jwecediivj. Payment of £10 to Chaucer. A house built on
the quay of the Wool-ivharf for the Tronage (weighing) of Wools,
and for the scales, weights, and counting-office of the Custo)^e?'st
Controllers, and Clerics of the Tronage.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31.]

COMPOTUS pre&ictorum1 Nichola'i et Jo\\an?iis, CoUectorum Cus-
twaiarum et Subsidiorum predictorum in Portu Londonie, per brewe
Regis patens, datwra xxiiij*0 die Augusti, anno primo, penes ip.sos
Collectore-5 remanens, videZe'ce^, de exiU7>ws earw^dem Costumartttn et
&nb&idiorum Regis ibidem., a festo Sanct'i INIichaeZis, anno sexto, ante
quod festuw ijdem Collector inde computarunt inmediate sup/'a,1
vsqw.e festum Sancti Michael's proximo seq^ens, pe>* visum et
testimonill?>^ Gralfr^Zi Chaucer, Contrarokulatoris ear?mdem Custum-
arum et S\ibei*liorum Regis ibidem. A quo quidem festo Sancti
Michae/is ijdem Collectores sunt inde computaturi.

*****
Summa Rece/^e — xiiij M1 CCCxlvj li. xiiij d. * * *

Et prefato Cont>'«rotulatori, pro vacliis suis, x li. * * * Et
Jdhanni Churcheman, cui Rex quarto die Julij, anno sexto, concessit
quadragmta solidos per annw?^ pro qnadam domo quam idem
Johannes editicauit p?-o quiete MercatorMTW super kayam vocatam
Wollewharf , in Warda Tunis, in parochia Omnium. Sanctorum de
Berkyng Churche, in Londoiu'a, inter kayam Pauli Salesbury, ex

1 See No. 158.

244 1383. CHAUCER'S Surcey of Customs- Collectors Accowitts.

parte orientali, et venellam vocat.un. Watergate, ex pa?*te occidental!,
ad deseruiendutti pro tronagio lanar«w in Portu predict^ • in qua
quidem Rex concessit, quod durante vita ipsius Johanuis tronagiuwi
predictum teneatw, qwamdiu Regi placeret,1 et quod Rex hafreat
aisiamenta in domo predtcfa pro bilancijs, pohderibttt, et computatorio
pro Custnmariis, Cont?'arotulatoribws, clencis, et aliis officiam*
tr<magij \yredtcfi, c\\m introitu et exitu eortmdem, prout in aliis locis
vbi tronagim/i predictum esse solebat ; percipiendum (tsie) dictoa
quadraginta solidos ad termwos Sancti MichoeZis et Pasche, per
equales porcforaes ; ac eciam eidem Johimm, cui Rex decimo octauo
die Julij, anno septiwo, pro eo qwod dtclus Johannes, preter d/c/ain
doinu??i pro tronagio ordinatam, et prefer solariu;?i sup?vt eandem
domu??i pro dicto computatorio dispositam, Regi concessit quandam
camerulam pro latrina dicto computatorio annexam, necnon solariu??i
desuper. computatorium predictum, quod quidem solarium continet
triginta et octo pedes i;i longitudine, et viginti et vnivwi pedes et
dimidftfm in latitudine ; et in quo quidem solario sunt due carnere et
vim?7i garitum, vt dicitur ; habendum et tenendu???, Regi et \\eredibii8
Regis p?'o aisiamento ampliori dictomm Custurnariorww, Cont?*arotu-
latorw??i, clericorw??^, et sdioTum ofnciarior?*??i trouagij sapmdtc^i ;
durante vita prefati Joha?^?^is concessit, vltm quadraginta solidos
annuos supradi'c^os, alios quadraginta solidos percipiendos sing?flis
annis pro dictis camerula et solario supra comp'itatoriu?>i p?*ed^c^wm,
et aisiamento in eisde??i, ad te^'iniwos S«wcti MichaeZis et Pasche, per
equales porches, ad totam vitam ipsius Johannis, per maims
Custumareo?1^?^ predictoTum ; videlicet, tarn de dictis quadraginta
solidis quarto die Julij concessis, a festo Sancti MichaeZis, anno vjto,
quarn de aliis quadraginta solidis a Rege concessis, a predicto decimo
octauo die Julij, vsq/«e festu??i Sa?ic^i Micha^Zis, anno septi?^o — •
xlvij s. x d., per breuc Regis \TYotulatum in ^iemorandis de anno
vij° Regis hui^<?, te?'mino Hillarij, quod est inter Communm de eodem
anno, et kYeras patentee dicti Johanna de iGcepto. * * *

167.

1383, Sept. 29. — Account of John Organ and Walter Rauf, Collectors
of \Petty\ Customs, under the survey of Chaucer, from 5th Dec.,
1382, to this date.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 39 d.]

LONDON /.d. — Compotus Johtmuis Organ et Walter! Rauf, Col-
lectorum Cusiumarum prediciarum in Portu et locis predzc^is,1
Custumis lanam???, corioruw, et pelliu?^ lanutarwwt exceptis, pe>* duo
brewia Regis patencia de magno sigillo dictis Collectoribtis inde
directa, quorum dat?m prinii brewis xxvij0 die Marcij, anno quarto,
et secundi bre^is quinto die DQcemlris, anno sexto, et que annotantwr

1 The three preceding words are underlined, and were doubtless intended to
be omitted.

1383. CHAUCER'S Annuities. An. Extra Payment to him. 245

in compose dicti Joliantiis Organ et Walter! Sibill', nuper Collectorum
Cnstiimarum predicfamm in Portu et locis predictis, de prima pa?*te
huius anni inmediate vt supra ; l videlicet, de exitibus \miusmodi
Custumaraw a predicto quinto die Decembm, anno sexto, ante
queni diem pred^cft Johannes Organ et Wai terns Sibill' alias inde
computarunl vt supra, vsqwe festwra Sancti Michae/is, anno vij°, per
visum et testimoniu??i GalfriVZi Chaucer, Controrotulatorw Custum-
srtim predictstfum. A quo quid em festo ijdem Johannes Organ et
Walterus Rauf, Collectores ibidem, sunt inde computaturi.
*****
Summa Recede — DCiij li. xj s. j d. qua. Et respondent in Eo^7o
vjto, in Adhuc Item London /a, post aliud debit urn smwi.2

168.

1383, Oct. 24. — Half-yearly payment of Cliaucer's annuities; his
wife's being left unpaid.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 7 Ric. II., m. 3.]
§ Die Sabbat, xxiiijto die Octobm.

GalfnVfas 1 GalfrzV^o Chaucer, cui Domimts Rex ~Etlwardu8, aims
Chaucer. J Kegis huius, xx marco* smmas ad Scaccan'wrn, ad totarn
vitam suam pe?-cipiendas, pro bono sermcio per ipsum
eidom Domino JLtlwardo Regi impenso, per kYeras suas pafantes
coneessit, quas quidem kYeras Domiuus Rex mine conKrmauit : In
denarm1 si/A liberate, per assign«c/o?ie??i s^7>i factam isto die, in
pertolucionem x m&rcarum s^7>i Hberandorum de hiuusmodi certo suo,
vittel/ret, pro termi?io Mic/«/e/is proximo p?*ete^rito, per bre?^e sunw de
liberate lioc termino ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Galfri^o, cui Domimis Rex mine xx marcos samuas ad
Scaccariam ad totam vitam suam percipiendos, pro bono seruicio per
ipswm eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, per literas suas
pate?to concess^, et in recompensaczo^em vniws pichere vini eidem
GalfricZo per dictai Dominum TLdwardum Regem, auu??i Regz*
bui?^, concede, quok'oe^ [anno] in portu Ciuitat& London^, per manus
Pincerne eiusdem Regzs aui et lieredu??z snonun, ad totam vitam ipsius
Galfr/cZi percipiende, vltra xx marccw sibi per dictum &unm concessas,
et per Domhiuni Regem mine confirmatas : In denams sibi liberate
pe?* p?'ede'c£am assignac^o^e/^, in persoluc^o7^e??^ x moxcarum sibi
liberandarw??i de hniusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro te?*mmo MichaeZis
proximo preterite, pe>f brewe suu?tt de liberate, inter m&udata de hoc
termino vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

169.

1384, Feb. 11. — Rewards to Brembre, Philippot, and Chaucer, as
before.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 7 Ric. II., m. 16.]

1 See No. 162. '2 See No. 160.

246 A.U. 1384. Payment of CHAUCER'S $ his Wife's Annuities.

§ Die Jouis, xj° die ~Febmarij.1

Collectors^ Custume } Nicho?«o Brembre et Johanni Plulippot,

et Siibsidij Regis V Collectorib?/,s Custume et Sulmdij Eegis iu

in Portu Londom'e. J Portu Londom'e, ac Galfrz'do Chaucer, Con-

trarotulatori eoiundem in Portu predicto : In

denam's eis liberate, per ussignacionem sibi factam isto die, nomine
suo proprio, de regardo pro assiduo labore et diligence per ipsos
appositis in officiis suis in anno vltiwo elapso circa colleccicwem
denanoTMW p?iouewienciu?^ de eisdem Custuma et Subsidio, videlicet,
cuih'&et predictoium Colleciorum xxli. et predicto Cont?-arotulatori
x marccis, per brewe general e de priuato sigillo, inter mandafa de hoc
termino ... ... ... ... ... xlvj li. xiij s. iiij d.

170.

1384, April 30. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuities, due
at Easter, and the arrears of his wife's annuity due at
Michaelmas preceding, hers partly by assignment, and partly
in ready money.2

[Issue Roll, Easter, 7 Ric. II., m. 2.]
§ Die Sabbafi, xxx° die Aprilis.

Galfr/c/us 1 GalfnVfo Chaucer, armigero, cui Dommus Rex ~Edwardus,
Chaucer. J auus Eegis huius, xx maxcas aimuas ad Scaccarium ad
totam vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per
ipswm eidem Domino TZdwardo Regi impenso, per literas suas
]>a tenter concessit, quas quidem literas Dominus Rex mine con-
firmauit : In denam's sibi liberate, per assignaciVwem sibi
isto die, in persolucionem x marcarw??i sibi liberand#m??i de
modi certo suo, videlicet, pro iermino Pasche proximo p?*eterito, per
brewe smim de liberate, inter mandola de hoc te>*mi«o

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfttWo, cui Dominus Rex mine xx marca* animas ad
Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per
ipsum eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, et in recom-
pensactOJiem vnius pichere vini eidem Galfrw/o per dictum Dominum
^Ldicardum Regem, auu??i Regis huius, concede, quoh'oet die in portu

1 Not 23 Nov. 1383, as in Prof. Skeat's Life, p. xxxiv. This Roll contains
entries of the repayment of 1201., lent to the Exchequer by Sir Nicholas
Brembre, Knight, Mayor of London ; of 22£. due to him for the safe- conduct of
John Northampton, late Mayor of London, who was arrested in the City and
sent to Corfe Castle ; and of 666Z. 13s. 4d. paid to John Philip pot, citizen of
London, for the wages of men-at-arms, archers, and mariners going in divers
ships and barges to Scotland, in the King's service.

2 From this it is clear that a payment by assignment was not a payment in
money. It was a draft upon some officer, receiver, or collector, and may be found
recorded in the Receipt Rolls of the Exchequer. Assignments were sometimes
made to Chaucer upon the Collectors of the Customs.

1384. CHAUCER'S Survey of Customs- Collectors' Accounts. 247

Cluitatis Londom'e per manns Pincerne eiusdem Regis aui et hereclum
suorum ad ioi&m vitam ip.s'ius GalfnJi percipiende, vltra xx waxcaa
sibi per dictum &uwn concessas, et per "Dominum Regem mine con-
firmato#, per hYeras suas patentee concessit : In denam's sibi liberates,
per assignac/o??em prech'cfam, in persoluc/o?jem x m&Tcarum sibi
liberanda?-w??i de huiugmocfc' certo suo, videlicet, pro termmo Pasche
proximo preterite, per bre^e suum de liberate, inter mandata de hoc
termmo ... ... ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

floMippto, \ "Philippe Chaucer, nnper vni domicellarwm Philippe,
Chaucer. J nuper Regine Anglte, cui Dominus l&lwardtts, auus Regis
lniiw,9, x marcas a-imuas ad Scaccanfwm ad totam vitam
suam percipienda-*? per hVeras suas patentee conce^tY, quas quidrm
hVeras Domwms Rex nunc confirmauit : In denart/s sibi liberal^,
videk'eet, per preilzcftim assignacww/ewi xl s., et in moneta per manus
preiKctfi Galfr^VZi Chaucer xxvj s. viij d., in persohiczYwem v marcarum
sil»i liberandrtrw??? de liuiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro termiwo
MichaeZis vltiwo p?'ete?-ito, per brewe suum de libe?-ate, inter mandat«
de hoc termino ... ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

171.

1384, July 3. — Account of Organ and Rauf, Collectors of \Petty\
Customs, under the survey of Chaucer, from 2Qth Sej)t., 1383, to
this date.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 39 d.]

COMPOTUS Johanms Organ et Walteri Rauf, ntiper Collect orum
Custuinarw??^ Regis in Portu Londoiu'e et in singulis [iocis] abinde ex
vtraq^e p«rte aque Thamisze vsque Grauesende, et ilwWem, et exinde
ex parte Essex' vsq?/e Tillebury, et ibtViem, Custuniis ]anart/my
coriorww, et pellium \nn\itarum exceptis, per duo brewia Regis patencia
de niagno sigillo dictis imper Collectoribws separatim hide directa,
quorum datmw p?-imi brews pro dz'cfo Johanne Organ xxvij0 die
Marcij, anno quarto, et sec?^?Kli brewis pro dicto Waltero quinto die
Decembres, anno vjto, et que annotantur in compote dictorw??i Jdhanms
et Walteri, CoUectorum distiimarum predicfantm, vt supra,1 videZ/ce/,
de ex\tibu8 \\uinsmodi Custunlarwwi in Portu et locis prediufis a festo
Sa?icti Michae/is, anno vij°, ante quod ijdem Collectors inde com-
putarunt inmediate supra, vsqwe terciu??* diem Julij tune proximo
seciuentem, per visum et testunoninm GalfrzVZi Chaucer, Contrarotz^Za-
toris Custumarw^i predt'c#ar«m, quo die predi Zus Jolwwzes Organ
ainotus fuit ab officio pred«c#o, et AVille/???^^s More, vynter, constitutus
in eodem officio loco suo, et cum dicto Waltero associatus, per brewe
Her/is clausum de dicto magno sigillo predict'], [sic] Jolianni inde
directiuw, datum xij° die Julij, anno viij0, et super hunc compotum
liberatum. In quo contwze/w, qwod, cum Rex dicto tercio die Jul-'j

1 See No. 167.

248 CHAUCER'S Survey of Customs-Collectors' Accounts.

assignauerit pred/cfos WilleZmatm et Walterton ad dzcfcis Custnmas
in Portu et locis pred/c^is leuand#s et colligeridas et ad opus Regis
recipiendas, Rex mandauit eidem Johanni, quod se de officio p?-ed/cfo
a di'cfo tercio die Julij nullatenus intromitteret. A quo quidem
tercio die Julij, anno viij°, predict! WiUelmus More, vynter, et
Walterus Rauf , Collectores ibidem, sunt inde computaturi.
*****
Summa Recede — DCClxxiij li. xvij s. xj d. <]iia. Et respondent
in Jtotulo vij°, in Adhuc Item Londonto.1

172.

1384, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Philippot (the latter being
succeeded on his death by John Organ), 2 and of Brembre and
Organ, Collectors of Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of
Chaucer, for the year preceding. Payment o/£10 to Chaucer.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31 d.]

CoMPorc/s NichoZai Brembre et Johtmuis Philippot', CoUectorum
CustuinarwM et Subsidiorum lanarw??i, pellium lanut#rw??i, et
coriorum in Portu London^e, per brewe Rege's pate?is, datum xxiiijto
die Augusti, anno primo, super hunc compotum reetitut«w ; predict
NichoZai, pro se et p?*edt'c£o socio suo, defuncto, de exitibu* earwwdem
Custumarwrn et Subeidiorum Reges ibidewi, a festo S^mc^i Michae/is,
anno vij°, ante quod festum ijdem Collectores inde computarunt
~Rotulo Compotorum de Custumu-, vsqwe xxvtum diem Maij proximo
sequentem, quo die di'ctfus Joha»?^es obiit ; ac pmU'c/i NichoZai pro
seipso de limusmodi Qxiiibus ab eodem xxvto die Maij, anno vij°, per
brewe Regzs de magno sigillo, datw??i xxvj10 die Maij, eodem anno,
super hunc compotai restitutw?/i, vsqwe p?*imum diem July proximo
scquentem, quo die Rex per brewe suu??i patens assignauit ipsz^m
NichoZaum et Johannem Organ ad Custumo* et Svibsidia lanarw??i,
coiiorum, et pelliu??^ lanutarttm in Portu prede'cfo, videU'ce^, de
quoU'fret sacco lane de in di genie qia'nquaginta solidos, et de alienigenis
quatuor marcas, et de quibusk'ftet ducentis pellibus lanutzs de
indigenis qwinquaginta solidos et de alienige?w's quatuor marcas, et de
quoh'&et lasto coriorum de indigenis Centum solidos et de alienigem's
octo marcas, leuanda et colligenda, ct ad opud [sic] Regis recipienda,
et ad sigillu??i quod dicit?«r Coket' in Portu p?'edec^o custodiendw?^,
qwamdiu Regi placuerit, ita quod de Qxiiibus inde prouenientibtw
Regi ad Scoccartttm suu??^ respondeant ; [et] predict NichoZcd pro
se et predicto JohamiQ Organ, socio suo, de hwusmodi exitibus a
predicto p?imo die Juk)', anno vij0,3 vsqwe festum Sancti MichaeZis

1 This further account is on the Pipe Roll of 7 Ric. II., but does not
mention any payment to Chaucer. Their account is continued in Pipe Roll,
8 Ric. II., under "Residuum Londonie," and in 9 and 10 Ric. II.

2 A writ in favour of the executors of Sir John Philippot, Knight, is entered
on the Close Roll, 8 Ric. II., m. 31. 3 Qu. viij°.

Payments of CHAUCER'S and his Wife's Annuities. 249

proximo sequeus ; per visum et testimomum GalfhYJi Chaucer',
Contrarotwlatoris eanmdem Cusiumarum et Subsidiorum ~Regis
ibidem. A quo quidem festo ijdem Nicho/aus et Johannes, Col
lectors, sunt inde computaturi.

*****

Summa Recede — xxiij Ml D iiijxx xviij li. iij s. ij d. ob. * * *
Et p?*efato Contrarotwlatori, pro vadiis suis, x li. * * *

173.

1384, Oct. 18. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuities, and
payment of the arrears of his wife's annuity, due at Easter
preceding.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 8 Ric. II., m. 3.]

§ Die Martis, xviij0 die Qctobris.

GalfhWus ) GalfhVfo Chaucer, armigero, cui Dominus Rex Edwardus,
Chaucer. ) auus Regis huius, xx marcos smnuas ad Scaccarium ad
totam vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per
ips?mi eidem Domino JLdicardo Regi impenso, per kVeras suas paten tes
conceal, quas quidem hYeras Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denam's sibi liberates, per assignaceonem sibi fac^ara isto die, in
persolucwwem x marcarwwi sibi liberandarz«?i de huiwsraodk' certo suo,
videh'ce^, pro terniwo Michaels proximo preterite, per brewe suum
de liberate, inter mandata de hoc termiwo ... vj li. xii j s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfraVfo, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx marcos annwas ad
Scaccarmm ad totam vitam suam percipiendos, pro bono se?*uicio per
ipswm eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, ac in recompensa-
cioneiR vnius pichere vini eidem Galfrido per predictum Dommwm
l&divardum Regem, auuwi Regis huius, concede, quoh'oet die in Portu
Ciuitatis Londonz'e, per maims Pincerne eiusdem Regis aui et heredu??&
suon^?^, ad totam vitam ipsius Galfr^i percipiende, vltra xx marc«s
sibi pe?* dtc^m auu??i concessos et per ibominum Regem nunc con-
firmato^, per hYeras suas patentee concessit : In denam'-v sibi liberate,
per assignaci07ie?)i predt'cfam, in persoluc^owem x mwcarum sibi libe?*-
zudarum de \\musmodi certo suo, videh'cet, pro ierim.no MichaeZis
proximo prete?*ito, pe?* brewe suu?ra de liberate, inter mandata de hoc
termwo ... ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

) "Pbifyipe Chaucer, nuper vni domicella?*w??i T?1nilippe,
Chaucer. J nuper Regine Angh'e, cui Dominus ~Edivardus, auus Regis
huius, x marcas annuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam
suam percipiende^, pe?" literas suas patentes concern^, quas quidem
l^eras Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi liberates, per
man?/s p?*edi'c£i Galfr<V/i, viri sui, per B,ssignacionem predec^am, in
persoliicionem v marca/'w??i sibi liberandarw/?i de huiusmodi certo suo,

LIFE-KECORDS, IV. 17

250 Licence for CHAUCER'S absence. CHAUCER not a Chafe-wax.

videlicet, pro termino Pasche l proximo preterite, per bre^e suum de
liberate, inter mandate de hoc termino ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

174.

1384, Nov. 25. — Licence to Chaucer to be absent from Ms office of
Controller of Customs for one month, provided he appoint a
sufficient deputy.

[Close Roll, 8 Ric. II., m. 31. 2 Godwin, App. xviii.]

Pro GalfKt/o \ 'Rex, Collectoribws custumarww et subsidiorw?^ suorum
Chaucire. J in portu London/e, salwtem. Quia licenciam dedimus
dilecto nobis GalfnWo Chaucire,3 Contrarotulatori i\osh-o custum-
arum et subsidiomw predictorum in portu predict, quod ips& so per
vnwn mensem, pro quibusdam vrgentibws negociis ipsjmi tangeutib?4s,
a portu predicto absentare possit, ita q?/,od sufficientem deputatum
suuwi ad officiuw predictam bene et fideliter per idem tempus
faciendwwi et excercend?£M, pro quo respondere voluerit, faciat :
Vobw mandamus, quod, capto sacmwew/o de sufficient! depntato
eiusdem GalfnWi de officio predicto in absencia sua bene et fideliter
faciendo, predict um Galfr/^um ab officio suo predicto per tenijtus
predictum absentare permittatis. Teste lleye, apud Wostmonastertum,
xxv. die Nouembrio, Per ip^/nii Eegem.

175.

1384, Dec. 9. — Rewards to Brembre, Organ, and Chaucer, for their
diligence in collecting the Customs, for the King's convenience.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 8 Ric. II., m. 13.]
§ Die Venms, ix° die Decembm.

Brembre, \ Xicho/ao Brembre et 3o\ianni Organ, Collectori-
Organ. / bus Custume et Siibsidij Reg/8 in Portu
Londoni'e, et Phi'%^0 4 Chaucer, Contmrotula-

1 "Pasche" is written over an erasure. Philippa doe3 not appear to have
received any payment for Michaelmas term.

2 Not 30, as in Godwin's Life.

3 This is the only instance of Chaucer's name being spelt in this way, and
therefore it can hardly be regarded as affording a clue to the derivation ; but tor
remarks on this form, see letters of Prof. Skeat and Mr. E. G. Atkinson, in the
Athenceum, Feb. 4 and 18, 1899, where it is suggested that it is equivalent to
Chauvecire, or Chaif-wax. The name seems rather to have been derived from
the Latin " calcearius," a shoemaker, the s of which survives in the form
" Chaucers." This Latin form is not however found in English records, nor in
those of the Netherlands, apparently, which use " caligarius " for shoemaker.
"Calcearius," with the same meaning, occurs in early French records, and later
instances may be seen in the " Returns of Aliens in London,'5 vol. I. p. xx.
From this it may be inferred that the family of Chaucer was originally of
French extraction. John le Chaucers, a merchant of Abbeville, had a safe-conduct
to come to England in 1293, as appears in the Calendar of the Patent Rolls ;
which record does not relate to his "wines, "as stated in the Calendar, but to
his "goods and merchandise."

4 An evident error for " Galfrido"; see Mr. Selby's letter in the AtJicnceum.
April 14, 1888, p. 468.

CHAUCER may appoint a Deputy. His and his Wife's Annuities. 251

tori Regw in Portu predlcto : In denam's eis liberat/s, per assigna-
cionfiin sibi fac^ain isto die, nomiftibiw suis propriis, de regardo p?*o
assiduo labore et diligencm per ipsos appositis in officiis suis in anno
vltiwo elapso, pro cowniodo Regis, circa collecc/owem den&norum
Regis proM.Gni8D.eiwn de eisdem Custuma et Subsidio, necnon pro
custubws et expensis per ipsos facti* causa dicti offic// in anno predicto,
per loieue generale de prmato sigillo, inter rnandata de hoc iermino

xlv j li. xiij s. iiij d.

176.

[1385, Feb.] — Petition of Chaucer to the King for have to appoint a
permanent deputy at the Wool-quay of London ; with a note of
the King's assent.

[Warrants, Chancery, series I., file 1401. l]

Le Roy lad grante.

§ Plese a nosfre Sieur le Roy granter a Geffroy Chaucer, qil
puisse auoir suffisant deputee en loffice de Comptrolowr a le Wolkee
de Londres, tiel pur qi le dit Geffray voet respounder, durant le
terme qe le dit Geffray soit Comptrolowr de la Custuwe nos^re dit
Sieur en le Port suisdicfe. OxENJ*.2

177.

1385, Feb. 17. — Licence to Chaucer to appoint a deputy in his office
of Controller, as long as he holds it.

[Patent Roll, 8 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 31. Godwin, App. xix.]
Pro Galfr/^o \ Re#, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, qwod
Chaucer. J de gracia nostra spea'ali concessimus et licenciani
dedimus dilec^o nobw Galfr^V/o Chaucer, Contra-
rotulatori custumar?f?7i et sllbsidior/^??^ nostrorum in portu Ciuitatis
nosfre Londom'e, quod. ips& officiu»i predict uni per sufficientem
deputatum suuwi, pro quo respondere voluerit, facere et excercere
possit, qw^mdiu idem GalfriWus in officio stete?*it saprodieto, absqwe
impediments Collectorwwi custumarw^i et subsidiorw?^ nostrorum pre-
dictorum in portu predicto pro tempore existenciu??^, seu alioittftt
quoTumcwm.(\ue. In cuius etc. Teste Rege, apud Westmonasterium,
xvij. die February. Per ipswm Regem.

178.

1385, April 24. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's annuities and
his wife's annuity, the latter partly by assignment, and partly
in ready money.

1 See letter of Mr. Selby in the Athenceum, Jan. 28, 1888, p. 116.

2 Signature of the ninth Earl of Oxford, with an asterisk. He appears also
to have written the words " Le Roy lad grante," at the head. Selby refers to
Doyle's Official Baronage, ii. 733. He did not consider this petition to be
in Chaucer's handwriting. It is in an ordinary Chancery clerk's hand. Chaucer
already had power to place a deputy in the Petty Customs ; see No. 155.

252 Annuities of CHAUCER and his Wife. A Loan to her.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 8 Hie. II., m. 2.]
§ Die Lime, xxiiijto die Aprilis.

Galfr/Wus \ GalfhWo Chaucer, armigero, cui Dommus Eex JZdicardus,
Chaucer. J anus Regz's hums, xx marcas annuas ad Scaccarium ad
totain vitam suam percipiendo*, pro bono seruicio per
iprfttin eidem Domino Edtvardo Regi impenso, per hYeras suas patentee
conce^/Y, quas quideni liferas Dowwnaa Rex nunc confirmauit : In
denari/tf sibi liberates, per assignacaowem sibi factfam isto die, in
persoluctonem x marcos sibi liberan<larw?ft de huitttmotft certo suo,
videlicet, pro te?'mino Pasehe proximo preterito, per brewe SUU?M de
liberate, inter mandata de hoc termino ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem GalfrtYfo, cui Dommus Rex nunc xx mareas sumuas ad
Scaceari/im ad totam vitam suam percipiendoft, pro bono se?*uicio per
ipaum eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, et in recom-
pensac&ttem vniug pichere vini eidem Galfr^?o per dictum. Dwnimim
Edwardum Regem, aimin Regis huiw^, concede, quolibei die in portu
Ciuitatis Londome, per manus Pince^'ne eiusdem Domini Regis aui et
hcredum snorum, ad totam vitam ip^ius GalfhWi percipiende, vltra
xx marc«s sibi per dictum Dominum Jhlwardum auum concessas, et
per Dominum Regem nunc confirmatdW, per hYeras suas patentes
conce.^v7 : In denar/^ sibi liberate, per assignaci'o?iem pml/c/am, in
persoluci'o?iem x m&rc<trum sibi \iberdndarum de \\niusmodi cerbo suo,
videlicet, pro te?*mino Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe smim de
liberate, inter mandata de hoc tennino ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

"Philippz, ) "Philippe Chaucer, nuper vni Domicella?^?>i Philippe,
Chaucer, j nuper Regine Angh'e, cui Dominus Rex ~Edwardus, anus
Regi.s huie^, x niarcas ann?^os ad Scaccar^^m ad totam
vitam suam percipiendos, per h'feras suas patentes concessit, quas
quidem hVeras Domin.ua Rex nunc eonfirmauit : In denam'a sibi
liberate, videlicet, pe?* p?*ed^c#am assignaczo^iem xxvj s. viij d., et in
moneta per manus predicti GalfnYft Chaucer xls., in pe/*soluc/owem
v m&vcarum sibi liberandarwwi de hvAusmddi certo suo, videlicet, pro
termino Pasche vltimo prete?*ito, per brewe suu??z de libe?-ate, inter
mandata de hoc termino ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

179.

1385, Sept. 20. — Loan to Philippa Chaucer, throuyJi John Hermes-
tliorp, of 4:1. 6s. 8d. on account of her annuity.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 8 Ric. II., m. 23.]
§ Die Mercury, xx° die Septembm.

"PhilippB, \ YhilipjiG Chaucer, nuper vni domicellarw?^ Pht^pe,

Chaucere. / nupe?* Regine Angh'e, cui Dominua Rex TZdwardus, auus

Regis huiws, x marcos samuas ad Scaccarium ad totam

vitam suam percipiend«-§, pro bono seruicio per ip^m tarn

1385. CHAUCER'S Surveys of Customs-Collector^ Accounts. 253

T>omino Regi JLdwardo quam predicts Regine impenso, per ItVeras
suas patentes concessit, quas quidem hVeras Dommus Rex nu??c
confirmauit : In denarm sibi libe?-atis, per nianus Joha?mis Hermes-
thorp', vnius Camerariora??^1 videlicet, de denams in manubws
eiusdem Johannis, de p?'estito super limusmodi certo suo

iiij li. vj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondebit.
[Note in margin :] Liberator ad Scaccarium Compotorum.

180.

1385, Sept. 29. — Original Account of Nicholas Brembre and John
Organ, Collectors of Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of
Chaucer, for one year ending at this date.

[Exchequer, Accounts, etc., Customs, -y-.]

LONDON/^. — P«rticwle compo^i Nicliolai Brembre et Johannis
Organ, Collectorum Custumc/rwm et Svibsidiorum lanarww, pelliu?>fc
]&nutarum, et coiiorum in Portu Londonte, videl/cet, de exiiibus
eorw7^dem Cusiumarum et Stibsidwrum a festo Sancti MichaeZis, anno
viij0, vsqt^e festum Sancti Mich«e7is proximo seq?^n^, per visura et
testimoniu??^ G&lfridi Chaucer', Contrarotulatoris eorawdem Custum-
arum et Subeidiorum Regis ibidem.

[The names of the shipowners and merchants, the quantities of wool and
wool-fells, the amounts of the Customs, and the " issues of the seal " are stated
on six membranes, written on both sides. The heading is in a different hand
from that of the body of the accountr but it is not in the same hand as the
heading to the account of 4-5 Ric. II., No. 148. These two rolls are the only
original Customs accounts bearing Chaucer's name- now extant.]

181.

1385, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Organ, Collectors of
Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer, for the year
preceding.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31 d.]

COMPOTUS Nichofcd Brembre et Johemreis Organ, CoHeetorttm
CostmnarttfR et Subsidiorum lanantnt, pellium \<inutarum, et cnnorwwt
in Portu Londonte, per brewe Regis patens, datum primo die Julij,
anno viij0, penes ipsos Collectores remanens, videlicet, de ex\iibus
eorwwdem Cnstnmaftmt et Subsidiorum Regis ibidem, a festo Sancti
MichaeZis, d^c#o anno viij0, ante quod festum ijdem Collectores hide
compntarunt inmediate s\\pm,2 vsque festum Sancti MichaeZis proximo
seq^^ens, per visnm et teetimoniw/j Galfr/cZi Chaucer', Controrotula-
toris eorwwdem Custnmarum et Subsidiomm Regis ibidem. A quo
quidem festo Sancti MichaeZzrs, anno ix°, ijdem Collec^o?'es sunt inde
computaturi.

*****
1 He was one of the two Chamberlains of the Exchequer. 2 See No. 172.

254 CHAUCER surveys Accounts. He is Justice of the Peace for Kent.

Summa Recepfe — xv Milb'ot CCCxij li. xiiij s. xj d. ob. * * *
Et prefato Contrarotwlatori, pro vadm suis, x li. * * *

182.

1385, Sept. 29. — Account of William More and Walter Rauf,
Collectors of [Petty] Customs, under the survey of Chaucer, from
3rd July, 1384, to this date.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 39 d.]

LONDONJA — Gompotus Willelmi More, vynter, et TFalteri Rauf ,
Collectorum Custumarzm Regis in Portu Londom'e et in singulis locis
abinde ex vtraqwe parte Tliamiste vsque Grauesende, et ibidem, et
exinde ex parte Essex' vsque Tillebury, et ibidem, Custumis lanarw?»,
coriorum, et pellium Isamtarum except/s, per bre^e Regis patens,
ft&kum tercio die Juli/, anno viij°, penes ipsos Collectors remanews ;
videlicet, de exitibus eamttdem Custumamw a p?*ed?'c£o tercio die
July, anno viij°, ante quern diem- Johannes Organ et p?*edtc£us
Walterus, Collectores inde, computarunt Rotulo CompotoTum de
Custumis,1 vsq?«e festum Sancti MichaeZis, anno ix°, per visum et
testiwowium Gc&lfridi Chauncer, Cont?'arotwlatoris earw?^dem Custum-
arum Regis ibide;?z. A quo quidem festo Sancti MichaeZis, anno ix°,
ijdem Wille???z?^s et Walterus sunt inde computaturi.

Summa Recepfe — M'iiij^vij li. xiiij s. vd. ob. qua. * * *
Et respondent in Rotido viij°, in Adhuc Item London/a.2

183.

1385, Oct. 12. — Association of Chaucer with the Warden of the Cinque
Ports and others as one of the Justices of the Peace for the
County of Kent.

[Patent Roll, 9 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 30 d.]

De associaczbfte. — Rear dilecfo sibi GralfhWo Chaucer, salwtem.
Sciatis, qwod cum nuper assigncmerinms dilecfos et fideles no-5fro8
Simone??i Burle, Constabularmw Castri nostri Douorr' et Custodem
quinqz^e portuu??z noshomm, Johannem de Cobeham, Rober^um
Bealknap', JohaniiQm de Clynton', Johannem Deuereux, Thomam
Culpepir, Thomam Fog', Walterum Clopton', Wille/7?i?^m RikhilP,
Joliannem Frenyngham, Arnaldu??^ Sauage, Jacobum de Pekham,
Wille^?ium Topclyf, Hugonem Falstolf, Thomam Brokhill', et
Wilielmum Brenchesley, ac Thomam de Shardelowe, iam defunctu??i,
coniunctim et diuisim, Custodes pacis nos^re, necnon ipsos, sexdecim,
quindecim, quatuordecim, tresdecim, duodecim, vndecim, decem,
nouem, osto, septera, sex, quinq?^e, quatuor, tres, et duos eorum
Justicmr/os nos^ros ad diuersas felonias et t?'ansgressiones in Comitaiu

1 See No. 171.

2 Their account is in Pipe Roll, 8 Ric. II., under Residuum Londonie, but
no payment to Chaucer is mentioned there. See also 9 Ric. II.

CHAUCER J.P. for Kent. Annuities of him and his Wife paid. 255

Kanct'e, tarn infra liberates quam extra, audiendo* et terminandas,
et ad quedam alia in \itei\& nostris paten tibu* inde confectis contenta
in Comitatu pre&icto facienda et explenda, prout in eisdeni 1/feris
pleiiius continetwr ; quibusdam certis de causis nos mouentibz^',
associauinms vos prefat/s Simoni etc., quindecim etc., ad premissa
omuia et singula, vna cum eis, quindecim etc., iuxta tenorem h'/erarum
nosfrarum predict&Tum facienda et explenda ; ita tamen, q^od si ad
certos dies et loca quos ijdem Simon etc. ad hoc pwmiderint vos
adesse contige?it, tune vos ad hoc in sociu??i admittant, alioquin
ijdem Simon etc., quindecim etc., non expectata presencia ve#fra, ad
premissa onwia et singula facienda et explenda procedant. Et ideo
vob/6* mandanms, quod ad premissa om^ia et singula vna cwn prefatis
Simone etc., quindecim etc., facienda et explend« intendatis in forma
predicts ; fac^uri etc. ; sa[l]uis etc.1 Mandauim^^s enim eisdem
Simoni etc., quindecim etc., quod vos ad hoc in sociuw admittant,
sicut pred^cfomi est. In cuiz&> etc. Teste TLeye, apud Weztmona-
sterium, xij. die Octobr^s.2

184.

1385, Nov. 3. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer s annuities and
his wife's annuity, tJie latter partly by assijnment, anl partly
in ready money.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 9 Ric. II., m. 6.]
§ Die Veneris, tercio die Nouembra.

GalfriV?as ) Galfr^^o Chaucer, armigew, cui Ttomimis Rex fjlwardtts,
Chaucey. J auus Regis huiz^, xx marras &m\uas ad Scaccariwn. ad
totam vitam suam, ad tenmnos S'.uicfi Michae/is et
Pasche per equales porciones percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per
ipstim eidem Domino Jblwardo Regi impenso, per Uterus suas patentes
concessit, quas quidem literas Dominm Rex mine contirmauit : In
denam's sil>i liberate, per aasignactb/iein silo, factum isto die, in
persolucionem x msiYcctrum sibi Iibe>*anda7*w;?? de limusmodi certo suo,
videk'^et, pro tennmo Michaels vlti??zo preienio, per \yreite suu??i de
liberate, inter mandata de hoc te?-miuo ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Eidem Qtalfrido, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx marras annuns ad
Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam percipiendcw, pro bono seruicio per

1 For the full form, see p. 261, lines 5—8.

3 The commission of the peace to Simon de Burley and others, referred to
above, is dated 29 Feb. 1384, and is on the Patent Roll, 7 Hie. II., p. 1, m.
43 d. ; but Chaucer is not included in a later comrnis ion to Burley and others,
dated 24 May 1386, which is on the Patent Ptoll, 9 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 38 d. His
name occurs, however, in a still later commission for Kent, dated 28 June 1386,
which furnishes a good specimen of commissions of the peace at this period ;
and there is a special commission to him and others, as Justices, dated 16 May
1387, to try a case of "raptus." These three entries were unknown till the
Calendar of the Patent Rolls, 1385 — 1389, appeared, while these pages were
passing through the press ; and we are indebted to Mr. G. H. Overend for call
ing attention to them, as well as for many other suggestions and references.

256 Extra Payment to CHAUCER for collecting the Customs diligently.

ipsum eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, et in recompen-
sact'cwem vnius pichere vini eidem Galfrz'rfo per dictum. Dominum
ILdwardum Eegem, auu??i Regis Imius, concesse, qnolibet die in Portu
Ciuitatis London/e, per manus Pinceme eiusdem Domini Regis aui et
heiedum snorum, ad totam vitara ipsius Galfh'cft percipiende, vltra
xx marcrts sibi per dictum. Dominum JLdwardum auuw concessas, et
per dictum Dominum. Regem nimc confirmatos, per Itferas suas
patentes concessit : In denam's sibi liberal's, per assignaczoftem sibi
facfam isto die, in persohicionem x mancarum sili libe?'andarwm de
hniusmodi certo suo, videl/cet, pro termino Mich«e/is vltirao preterite,
per hreue suum de libe?*ate, inter mandata de hoc termirco

vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Ph^7^jp/)a \ "Philippe Chaucer, nupervni domicellar?«??i Pht/tj?pe,nnper
Chaucer. J Regine Angk'e, cui Dominus Rex Edwardus, auus Regis
huiws, x marcos ann?fas ad Scacca?*/wm ad totam vitam
Buam ad termiraos Sancti MichaeZis et Pasche per equales porciones
', pro bono seruicio per ipsam tarn eide??i Domino Regi
Philippe, nuper Regine AngHe, impenso, per Uterus suas
patentes concessit, quas quidem hVeras Dorwntts Rex nunc con-
lirmauit : In denam's s^&i liberates, videlicet, per p?'ed/cfam assigna-
tionem xxvj s. viij d., et in moneta per manus predicti G&lfridi xls.,
in persoluciowem v ma^car^^??^ sibi liber&ndarum de hniusmodi certo
suo, videlicet, pro termino MichaeZis vltimo p?*eterito, per brewe suu?n
de libe?*ate, inter mandate* de hoc termino . . . Ixvj s. viij d.

185.

1385, Dec. 11. — Rewards to Brembre, Organ, and Chaucer, as before.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 9 Ric. II., m. 14.]

§ Die Lune, xj° die Decembm.

NichoZaus Brembre, \ Nicholao Brembre et Johanni Organ', Collec-

et Johannes Organ. / toribz^ Custume et Subsidy Regis in Portu

Londom'e, et GalfhVZo Chaucer, Contrarotula-

tori Regis in Portu predz'cfo : In denams eis liberates, per assigna-
cionem sibi fac#am isto die, nominibus suis prop?iis, de regardo pro
assiduo labore et diligencia per ip-?os appositis in officiw suis in anno
vltimo elapso, pro comodo Regis, circa collecc*o?iem den&riorum
Regis prouemencm??i de eisdem Custuma et Snhsidio, necnon p?*o
custubws et expens/s per'ipsos factz's causa officij sui anted^c^i in anno
predicto ... ... ... ... ... xlvj li. xiij s. iiij d.

186.

3386, Feb. 19. — Admission of Henry, son of John of Gaunt, Sir
Thomas de Swyneford, and others, and Philippa Chaucer, as
Brethren and Sister of Lincoln Cathedral Church.1

1 This was discovered by Mr. A. F. Leach, and referred to in the Atkenceum,
Dec. 9, 1899. The entry was transcribed for this work by Canon "Wordsworth.

PHILIPPA CHAUCER lecomes a Sister of Lincoln Cathedral. 257

[Acta Capitularia Ecclesise B. Mariae Lincoln., Libro Quinto (A. 2. 27), f. 13 ;
in Actis Capituli per Rob. de Halton, notarium, 1384-95.]

Admissio Domini Henri<», Comitis Derbeye, et aliorwft subscriptora??i
in frames Ecclesie Lincoln'.

T&EMORA M)C7Af, quod xix° die mensis February'/, anno Domini
Millmmo CCCmo Uctogesimo quinto, in domo Capitulari ecclesie
Lincoln', venerabiles et circumspect! viri, Domini Henricus [Comes
Derbeye],1 films [Domini Joh#/mis,] 2 excellentissimi Pn'ncipis Regis
Castell' et Ducis Lancastrae, Johannes Bewford', miles, Robe/'tus
Ferers, miles, Thomas de Swyneford', miles, WilleZmus Hauleye,
miles, Thomas de Bradele, armiger, [Edwardus Beuchampe, anniger],2
Arnaldus de Gastonia, armiger, et rhilipj/SL Chaucer . . . . 3 admissi
fueruwt, et quillet eoram admissus fuit, roue-renter, ad ipsoitim
peticiones, per4 renerend«??i in Christo patre?n, Dominum Joh«;mom,
Dei grace'a Lincoln' Ep?'s£C^um, tune ibidem p?-esentew, ac Subdeca/m?»
et Capitulura ecclm'e Lincoln', in ipsorum et dz'cle eccle,s'ie Lincoln'
fratres et sorore??i,5 secw?^dwm modnm et oonsnetudinem ip^ius eccle^ie
Lincoln' hactenw^ obseruatwwi et vsitat«??«, et cetera.

Presentibus in Capitwlo : —
Venerabili Principe Do?^'no Johanm, Rege Castell' et Duce Lancastr/e,

Magistris et Dominis

Johanne de Neuportis (procuratore Petro de Dalton', Thesaurari*)),
Johanne de Beluero, Subdecawo,
Hicardo de Wyuelvvyk',
JohannQ de Warssopp',
Johanne de Rouceby,
Ricardo de Beuerlaco,
Johanne de Carlton',
6 Thoma la Warr, et

Willefoio de Welbowrne, Canonicis et residenc/ar//*' in eadcwz,
pluribusq?*e alijs in multitudine copiosa, etc.

1 Over an alteration. 2 Interlined.

3 A word washed out and struck out. I think it was only a false start for
"admissi." — C.W. 4 "Dn'm Ep' Job. " (i. e. Bokingham) struck out.

5 The old Latin Bible, of which one volume still remains at Lincoln, contains
a list of Obits connected with the minster, written cir. 1185. Among those
named are "Outhild', soror nostra," "Goda, soror noitra," " Mere wen, soror
nostra," and "Osbertus presbiter, frater noster." — Lincoln Cathedral Statutes
(Bradshaw and Wordsworth, II. pp. ccxxxvii— ccxlii). Among those admitted
to fraternity in later times were K. Edward III., the Black Prince, the Duke of
Clarence, and John of Gaunt, in 1343 ; Henry Percy, Knt. (Hotspur), 15 Feb.,
1386[-7] ; and K. Richard II. and Anne his Queen, 26 Mar., 1387. An oath of
fidelity and love to this Church and Chapter was administered, sometimes in
English ; and they promised to assist and maintain the minster, and were
accordingly admitted to fellowship "in all prayers, fastings, pilgrimages,
almsdeeds, and works of mercy " connected therewith. The psalm Ecce quam
bonum (Cxxxiii.) was sung. Canute and his brother Harold were admittc-d
into brotherhood at Canterbury, Athelstan and others at St. Gall, and K.
Henry V., among others, at Salisbury.— Chr. Wordsworth. 6 A false start.

258 Payments of the Annuities of CHAUCER and Ids Wife. 1386.

187.

1386, May 9 and June 22. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's and
his wife's annuities, part of his first annuity being paid to
Robert Crull.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 9 Ric. II., m. 2.]
§ Die Mercury, ix° die Maij.

GalfhV/us 1 GalfnWo Chaucer, cui Domimis Rex Edwardus, aims
Chaucer. J Regis huius, xx marcos annwrts ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam, ad termmos Sancti Michoefis et Pasche per
equales porce'oraes percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsum eidem
Domino "Edwardo Regi impenso, per UYeras suas patentee concessit,
quas quide?^ hYeras Domimis Rex nunc conh'rmauit : In denam's sibi
liberates, videlicet, per manws proprio* liij s. iiij d., et per manus
Robert! Crull' iiij li., in persoluciowem x marcarum sibi liberandorwm
de hmitsmodi certo suo, •videlicet, pro terrnino Pasclie proximo
preterite, per \)ieue de liberate de hoc termmo ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

[Ibid., m. 10.]
§ Die Veneris, xxijdo die Junij.

1 GalfriWo Chaucer, armigero, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx msxc-as
simuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad termi?ios Sancti
Michag^is et Pasche per equales porce'cwes percipiendas, pro bono
seruicio per ipswm eideni Do?«mo ~Edwardo Regi impenso et impen-
dendo, ac in recompensace'oraeni vni?^s pichere vini eidem GalfnV/fo per
"D'jmmuia. Regem ^Ldwardum, nuper Re^em Angk'e, auum Regis Imiws,
conces-5e, quoltoet die in portu Ciuitatis Londom'e, per manws Pincerne
eiusdem Dowmi Regis aui et heredum suorw??i, ad totam vitam ipsius
Galfru^i percipiende, vltra xx marc«s sibi per dictum JLdwardum
Rcgem a.unm concessos, et per dictum Dominion. Regem mine con-
h'rma^as, per kYeras suas patentee conces^ : In denartV* sibi liberate
per assignacioTjeni sibi fac^am isto die, in persolucio/iem x marcarum,
sibi liberondarw/n de hmusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro termi??o
Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe suuwi de libe?-ate, inter mandate
de hoc termmo ... ... ... ... . .^ vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

1 "Philippe Chaucer, nuper vni domieellarzwi "Philippe, nuper
Regine Angk'e, cui Domimis Rex T&lwardus, aims Regis hmus, x
marcres ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad termmos Sancti
Nichaelis et Pasche per equales porcio^es pereipiendas, pro bono
seruicio per ipsam tarn eidem Do??zino JZdwardo Regi q^am predict
nuper Regine impenso, per liferas snas patentee concern^, quas quidew
k'feras Dominus Rex nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi liberates, pe?*
assignacio?2em sibi fac^am isto die, in persoluct'owem v m.&rcai'um sibi

1 Nothing in maigiu.

1386. CHAUCER is again a Justice of the Peace for Kent. 259

liber&ndarum de hmtwnodi certo suo, videlicet, pro iermino Pasclie
proximo preterito, per brewe suuw de liberate, inter mundata de hoc
iermino Ixvj s. viij d.

188.

1386, June 28. — Commission of the Peace to Simon de Hurley,
Warden of the Cinque Ports, and others, including Geoffrey
Chaucer, for the County of Kent.

[Patent Roll, 10 Richard II., p. 1, m. 47 d.]

[De] Jusiiciariis ad pacem 1 ~Rex, dilecfis et fidelibtt* suis Simoni
Kegis conseruandaw [• de Burle, Constabular/o Castri sui

assignatis. J Douorr' et Custodi quinqwe portuuw

suoru?ft, et eius locum tenenti, Johanni

de Cobeham, Eoberto Tresilian, Roberto Bealknap', Dauid Hanewer',
Jokanni de Clynton', Johanni Deuereux, Thome Culpepur, Thome
Fogg', Waltero Clopton', Willehno Rikhill', 3o\\anni Frenyngham,
Jacobo de Pekham, Wittelmo Topclyf, Thome Brokhill', Wille/mo
Brenchesley, et Galfrido Chaucer, sah/tem. Sciatis, qwod assignaui-
imis vos coniunctim et diuisim ad pacem nostrum, necnon ad statuta
apud Wyntonia7», Norihamptoniam, et Wesbmonasterium pro con-
seruacio/ze pacis eiusdem edita in omnibus et singwlis suis articulis,
in Gomitatu Kanc^'e, tarn infra libertates quam extra, custodienda et
custodiri faciendc?, et ad om/ies illos quos contra forma?/! statutorw/?z
predictoTiim delinquentes inueneritis castigandos et puniendo6¥, prout
secundum formam statutory??! eorw?zdem fue?it faciendw??i, et ad
om?zes illos qui aliquibiAS de populo nostro de corporib/«.s suis vel de
incendio domorum suarum minas fecerint, ad sufficientew securitate??i
de pace et bono gestu suo erga nos et populum nostrum inueniendaw
coram vob^s venire, et si huiusmodi secoritatem inuenire recusauerint,
tune eos in prisonis nostris quousqwg huiusmodi securitatem inuenerint
saluo custodiri faciendo6\ Assignauim?/5 eciam vos, sexdecim,
quindecim, quatuordecim, tresdecim, duodecim, vndecim, decem,
nouem, octo, septem, sex, quinqwe, quatuor, tres, et duos vestmm,
quorum vos, prefate Constabulare'e, vuwn esse volum?^, Justictarww
no^^ros ad inquirend?mi per s&cramentum proloonim et legalium
hominum de Comitattt predicto, tarn infra libertates quam extra, per
quos rei veritas melius sciri poterit, de omnimodis feloniis, t?-ans-
gressionib?^, forstallariis, regratariis, et extorsionibz^s in Comitat/i
predicto, infra libertates et extra, per quoscumqz^e et qualitercuniqwe
fac^is, pe?'petratis, et que exnunc ibidem fieri continget, et eciam de
omnibus illis qui in conuenticulis cont?'a pacem n0#£ram et4 in
pertwrbaci'owem pop?^li no^^ri, seu vi armata ierinJb vel equitaue?*int,
seu exnunc ire vel equitare presumpserint, et eciam de hiis qui in
insidiis ad gentem nos^ram mahemiandaw vel interficienda??*. iacuerint,
vel exnunc iacere presurnpserint, et eciam de hiis qui capuciis et alia

260 1386. CHAUCER'S Commission as J.P. for Rant.

liberata de vnica secta per confederac^o?iem et pro manutenencia,
contra defensionem ac formam ordinactonura et statutorw??i inde ante
hec tempora factorum, vsi fuerint, et aliis \\\\\usmodi liberata
imposterum vtentibz/s, et eciam de hostelariis et aliis qui in abusu
mensurarawi et ponderum, ac in vendiciowe victualiu??i, et eciam de
quibuscumqwe operariis, artificib^s, et seruitorib^? ac aliis qui contra
forma?/! ordinacionu??i et st&Morum pro communi vtilitate regni
nostri Anglie de huittstnode operariis, artificibws, seruitoribw*,
hostelariis, et aliis inde iactorum deliquerint vel attemptauerint in
Comitatu predicto, vel exnunc delinquere vel attemptare presump-
serint, et ad felonias predict&s ac ea onmia et singula que per
huiusmodi conuenticula contra pacem nostr&m et in perturbacto»em
populi nosfri, et ea eciam que per limusmodi insidias ad gen tern
nosfram mahemiandam vel interficiendara, et ea eciam [que] per vsum
huiusmodi capucionwn. et aliaraw libe?'atarwm per confiderac/onem
(sic) et pro manutenencia, sicut predictum est, attemptata fuerint et
attemptari contigmt, ac b'ansgressiones et forstallarias predtc/ai
audiendow, ac omwia brewia et precepta per nup^r Custodes pacis
nos^re et Justicia?-*os no^ros ad huiusmodi felouias, transgressiones, et
malef«c£a in hac parte audienda et terminanda assigna^s fac^a, et
coram eisdem ad certos terminos futuros retornabilia, ad te?'minos
illos recipienda, et processus inde ac alios processus quoscumq?^
coram eisdera inchoates et nondum terminates faciendos et continuan-
dos, et p?-emissa onmia ac indec^amenta quecumqwe coram prefatis
nuper Custodibits et Justiciary virtute liteT&rum nostrarum sibi in
hac p#rte iazttmim et nondum terminata inspicienda et debito fine
terminanda ad sectam nosfram, ac extorsiones et regretarias (sic)
pre<U'c/as, et onmia alia que per huiusmodi hostelarios et alios in
abusu mensurarM?^ et ponderw?^ ac in vendicto?ie victualiu??i, et
om?na alia que per huiusmodi operarios, artifices, et seruitores cont?-a
formam ordinacionivwi et statutor^??i predictorum seu in eueruacto?iem
eor^^dem in aliquo presumpta vel attemptata fue?int, tarn ad sectam
nos^ram qwam sdiorum quonmcumqwe coram vobis pro nobis vel pro se
ipsis conqueri vel prosequi volenciu??i, audienda et terminanda, et ad
eosdem operarios, artifices, et seruitores per fines, redempciowes, et
amerciamenta et alio modo pro delictis suis, prout ante ordinaczo/iem
de punic^'o?ie corporali huiusmodi operariis, artificibws, et seruitorib?i5
pro delictis- suis exhibenda facfam fieri consueuit, castigandos et
puniendos, secundum legem et collsuefnldine??^ regni nos£ri Anglie, ac
formam ordinac^'onum et statutom??i pred/c^or?iw : Prouiso se??iper,
quod si casus difficultatis super determinacKwe extorsionu??i huiusmodi
coram vob^s euenire contigerit, c[uod ad indicium inde reddendw??z
nisi in presencia vnius Jvisticiariomm nostroium de vno vel altero
Banco, aut Jnsticiariorum nostroium ad Assisas in Comitatu
pred^o capiendas asslgnatorum, coram vobis minime p/-ocedatM?\
Et ideo vob^s et cuilibet ves^rum mandamzi.5, quod circa custodiam
pacis et statutom??? pred^'c^or^??i diligenter intendatis, et ad certos

CHAUCER J.P.for Kent. Writ for Parliament-election. 261

dies et loca, quos vos, sexdecim, quindecim, quatuordecim, tresdecim,
duodecim, vndecim, decem, noue?n, octo, septem, sex, quinqz^e,
quatuor, tres, vel duo vestmm ad hoc p?*ouideritis, inquisic/'o?ies super
premissis facial, et p?*emissa onmia et singula audiatis et terminetis,
ac modo debito et effect ualiter expleatis, in forma prah'ctfa, factfuri
inde quod ad Justic/aw pertinet, sec2«?zdum legem et consuetudinem
regni iwstn Angh'e ; saluis nobis amerciamentis et aliis ad nos inde
spectatttibzjs. Mandauinms enim ~Vicecomiti iwstro Cowitattis pre-
dM, qi*od ad certos dies et loca quos vos, sexdeciin, quindecim,
quatuordecim, tresdecim, duodecim, vndecim, decem, nouem, octo,
septem, sex, quinqz^e, quatuor, tres, vel duo vesfrum ei scire facietis,
venire facial coram vobis, sexdeciin, quindecim, quatuordecim,
tresdecim, duodecim, vndecim, decem, nouem, octo, septem, sex,
quinqwe, quatuor, tribws, et duob?«s veafrnm tot et tales probos et
legaZes homines de Balliua sua, tarn infra libertates qwam ext?*a, per
quos rei veritas in p?'emissis melius sciri pote>it et inquiri. Et vos,
prefate Robe?-te,1 ad certos dies et loca per vos et d/cfos socios ve^ros
super hoc prefigendos, brezna, p?'ecepta, processus, et indic^amenta, vt
predtcfom est, coram vobis et sociis ve^tris, nuper CnstodibtM et
Justiciaf/w \i\\\usmodi fac^a et nonduni termi?iata, coram vobi^ et nunc
sociis vestris predictla venire fuciatis, et ea inspiciatis et debito fine
terminetis, sicut predictum est. In emits etc. Teste Re^e, apud
, xxviij. die Jim//.

189.

1386, Aug. 8.— Writ to the Sheriff of Kent for the election of two
Knights of the Shire, and of Citizens and Burgesses of the
Cities and Boroughs, to attend Parliament on 1st October, for the
consideration of important matters concerning the defence of the
Kingdom and of the Church of England ; with the Return of
Geoffrey Chaucer as one of the Knights.

[Writs and Returns of Members of Parliament, Chancery, 10 Ric. II.]
RICARDUS, Dei gratia, Rex Angl/'e et Francz'e, et Dominus Hibemte,
'Vicecomiti Kancze, salwtem. Quia, de auisamento Consilij nosfri, pro
quibusda?ft arduis et vrgentibws negociis nos, statuw et defensione??*
regni nosfri Angh'e ac ecclesie Anglicane contingeiitibws, quoddam
Parliaments^ no^r^m. apud Westmonosterium, primo die Octobm
proximo future, teneri ordinauimzjs, et ibidem cum Prelatis, Magnati-
bus, et Proceribz^ regni nos^ri Angh'e colloquiu??i ha^ere et tractatum :
tibi precipim?^ firmiter iniungentes, qwod de Comitatu tuo duos
Milites, gladiis cinctos, magis idoneos et discretes, Gomitatus p?*edi'c^i,
et de quah'^et Ciuitate Comitatus ill ins duos Ciues, et de qupltfet
Burgo duos Burgenses, de discreciorib?^6' et magis sufficientib?^', eligi,
et eos ad dz'cfos diem et locum venire, facias ; ita q?^od ijdew Milites

1 Qu. Tresilian or Bealknap. They were Chief Justices of the King's Bench
and Common Pleas, respectively. The former was executed in 1388. — Haydn.

262 1386. CHAUCER a K night of the Shire, or M.P. for Kent.

plenaw et snfficiente?)i potestate?ft pro se et Commumt&te Comitatus
predict!, et dicti Ciues et Burgenses pro se et Communitsitihus Ciuitatuw
et Burgoraw predictoium diuisim ab ipsis, h«&eant, ad faciendum et
consenciend?«ft hits que tune ibidem de communi consilio dicti regni
iwstri, fauente D0??imo, ordinari contigerit super negociis auted^cfis ;
ita quod, pro defeclu potestatis hmusmodi, sen propber improuidaw
elecci'oftem Militu??i, Ciuinm, aut Burgensium predictoium, dicta,
negocia nostra, infecta non remaneant quouis modo. Nolumws tamen,
quod tu, sea aliquis alius Vicecomes regui predicti, sen aliquis altemis
condicz'o?iis quam supe?'ius speciticat^^?•, aliqualiter sit electus. Et

ibi noininB, predictontm Militu??i, Ciuiu??^, [et] l Burgensiu??*,
et hoc brewe. Teste me ipso, apud Oseneye, viij. die Angus ti, anno
legni nostri decimo. Claydon'.

Per ipsum Regewi et Consillum.
[Return, on the dorse :]

De Comitatu Kanct'e duos Milites, et de qualibet Ciuitate
Comitatus illius duos Ciues, elegi [sic] feci, et illos ad diem et locum
venire facio, iuxta tenorewi hums brewis, quorum nomina, patent
inferius.

Manucaptores Wille^mi Betenham, vni^ Milit/s pro Co??z??iwwitate
predtc/a :

Stepha/ms Ine.
Willelmus Colyn.

Manucaptores Galfrafi Chauceres, alte/ius Militw :
Willelmns Rene.
WilleZmus Holt.

Manucaptores Thome Holt, vnius Cinis pro Ciuitate Cantuarte :
Hemicus Best.
Heim'cu* Ine.

Manucap tores Johaw?iis Symme, alterius Ciuis Cinitatw predicte :
Johannes Sone.
Johannes Rene.

]\Ianncaptores Petri Pope, vmus Cinis pro Cinitate RofFensi :
Johannes Lamb.
Thomas Dene.
Manncaptores Johannis Flemyng', alterius Ciuis Ciuitatw

Johrwwes Dane.
Willed? us Dat.2

est aliquis Bnrgus, nee plures sunt Ciuitates, in Comitatii
predicto, vnde plures Ciues sen aliquos Burgenses venire face?'e potui
ad diem et locu??i infranominatos, iuxta tenorem eiusdem brewis.

Per Arnaldum Sauage, Vic.

1 Omitted here, and in other writs.

2 The names of some of these mainpernours look like fictitious ones, but in
the return^ for some other counties, not all, the mainpernours are clearly real
persons.

1386. CHAUCER'S Survey of Customs $ Pet ftj- Customs Accounts. 263

190.

1386, Sept. 29. — Account of Brembre and Organ, Collectors of
Customs and Subsidies, under the survey of Chaucer, for the
year preceding. Payment of £10 to Chaucer.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 31 d.]

COMPOTUS ISTichoZai Brembre et Johannis Organ, Collectorum
Custuman/m et Subsidiorum Ian-arum, pellium lanutctruni, et coriorum
in Portu Londom'e, per brewe Regz's patens, datum p?-imo die Julij,
anno viij°, penes ipsos Collectores remaneras, -videlicet, de exitibws
eorwttdem Custumarum et Suhsidiorum ibidem, a festo Sancti
Michael's, anno ix°, ante quod festum ijdem Co\\ectores inde com-
putarunt inmediate supra,1 vsqwe festum Sancti Michaels proximo
seqwens, per visum et testimonium GalfnWi Chauncer', Contrarotula-
toris eorwTidem Custumarw??i et Subsidiorum Regis ibidem. A quo
quidem festo Sancti Michoe/is, anno x°, ijdem CoUectores suut inde
computaturi.

*****
Summa Recede — xvij MilU'a xlvij li. xvjs. iij d. qua. * * *
Et prefato Contrarotulatori, pro vadiis suis per idem tempus,
xli.2 * * *

191.

1386, Sept. 29.— Account of More and Rauf, Collectors of [Petty]
Customs, under the survey of Chaucer, for the year preceding.
A house hired for collecting and depositing the Customs.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 39 d.]

COMPOTUS WiUelmi More, vynter, et Walteri Rauf, Collectorum
Custumarwm Hegis, de quibuscumq^ bonis et me?*candie«s, Custumis
lanarum, corior?^??i, et pelliu??i lanutarwm exceptis, in Portu London^
et in singulis locis abinde ex vtraqwe parte Thamis/e vsqwe Graues-
ende, et ibidem, et exinde ex pa?*te Essex' vsqwe Tillebury, et ibidem,
per brewe Regis patens de magno sigillo d^'c^is Collec/or^?/s directvm,
datum tercio die Jule;', anno viij°, penes ipsos Collectores remaned, et
annotatwm in compote dictorum Collectorum de Custumis predzc^is de
anno vlti?wo pretereto, Rotulo Compotonim de Custumis, videlicet, de
exitibus liuiusmodi in Portu et locis predict^ a festo Sancti Michr/eZis,
anno ix°, ante quod festum ijdem Collectores alias inde computarunt
dicto Rotulo de Custumt's, vsqwe festum Sancti Mich«e?is, anno x°,
per visum et testi??l07^iu?7^ GalfrtWi Chaucer, Contrarotwlatoris
Custuma?*w??i predicfarum, A quo quidem festo ijdem Collectores
ibidem sunt inde computaturi.

* * * * *

1 See No. 181.

2 Payments out of the Customs were made to Thomas, Duke of Gloucester
and Earl of Buckingham and Essex, and to Edmund, Duke of York and Earl of
Cambridge, by authority of letters patent.

264 CHAUCER'S old Aldgate rooms let. Scrape and Grosvenor Arms.

Summa Recede — M'xiiij li. xvj s. xj d. * * * Et eisdem
Co\\ectoribus, pro vna domo conducta pro Custuma colligenda et
imponeuda per idem tempus. xxxiij s. iiij d., sicut allocator est
ibidem. # * * Et respondent in Ro£w/o ix° iu Adhuc Item
Loudoma.1

192.

1386, Oct. 5. — Lease to Richard Forster of the dwelling above
Aldgate.

[City of London Records, Letter Book H, f. 204 b.]

Lease by Sir Nicholas Brembre, Mayor, and the Aldermen and
Commonalty of London to Richard Forster,2 citizen of London, of
" totam mansionem supra portam de Algate, cu??i domib?^ssuperedin-
cato's, et quodam celario subtus eandem portam in parte austral i
eiusdem porte, cum suis pertiiienciis," for the whole of his life. He
shall keep it in repair, and shall not demise it. The lessors will not
make any prison therein, etc. Dated in the Chamber of the Guild
hall, 5 October, 10 Ric. II.3

The lease was delivered to him on 6th November.

193.

1386, Oct. 15. — Testimony given by Geoffrey Chaucer, Esquire, in the
Court of Chivalry, in the dispute as to the right to bear certain
arms between Sir Richard le Scrope and Sir Robert Grosvenor,
before Sir John de Derwentwater, in the Refectory of Westminster
Abbey*

[Chancery Miscellaneous Rolls, bundle 10, no. 2 ; edited by Nicolas.
Godwin, App. i.]

Ces sont les attsstacions pris le duzisme iour Doctobre, Ian du
regne le Roy Richard' seconde puis le Conquest disme, en lesglise de
seint Margarete de Wymonstre, deuawnt Monsieur Johan de Derwent-
water, productz pur la partie de Monstewr Richard' Lescrop', en vne
cause darmez, cestassauoir, dazure oue vne bende dor, pa?' entre le

1 There is nothing about Chaucer in their further account on the Pipe Roll.

2 See No. 120.

3 There is no reference to Chaucer or his previous lease in this document,
which was discovered by Prof. Hales, and referred to by him in the Academy,
Dec. 6, 1879, p. 410, and in his Folia Litteraria, p. 87. There is an earlier
reference to the gate-house in Letter Book C, f. 86. It is a memorandum that
on the eve of St. Michael, 33 Edw. I. [1305], the " porta de Algate " was
granted and delivered by the Mayor, Aldermen, Sheriffs, and Chamberlain to
Thomas de Kancia, the Mayor's Serjeant, to keep and inhabit during his good
behaviour ; and he was to repair the roof at his own charges. Prof. Skeat refers
to Riley's Memorials, p. 469, as to a later resolution of the Corporation not to
let houses over the City gates.

4 This heading is partly borrowed from Godwin, but he mistakes in saying
that Chaucer made his deposition in St. Margaret's Church on 12th October.

CHAUCER'S evidence on Sir R. Grosvenor's right to his Arms. 265

dit Monsieur Eichard', pa?-tie actowr, et Monsieur Robert Groueno*^-,
pa?'tie defendant, en la manere qe sensuyt.

[Here follow the depositions of 22 witnesses, the last being that of Chaucer ;
but after the third witness, the following sub-heading occurs :]

Et cez attestations ensuantz furent pris deuaunt le dit Monsieur
Johan de Darwentwatre, le quinzisme iour del dit moys Doctobre, en
le refreitour del Abbaye de Wynionstre, en la manere qe sensuit.

xxij. — Geffray Chaucere, Esquier, del age de xl ans et plus,
armeez par xxvij ans, product pur la partie de Monsieur Richard'
Lescrop', iurrez et examinez. Demandez si lez armeez dazure oue vn
bende dor apparteignent ou deyuent apparteigner au dit Mons^r
Richard' du droit et de heritage, dist qe oil, qar il lez ad veu estre
armeez en Fraunce deuawnt la ville de Retters,1 et Monsieur Henry
Lescrop' armez2 en mesmes lez armeez, oue vn label blanc et a bane?*,
et le dit Mons^ewr Richard' armeez en lez entiers armez dazure oue vn
bende dor ; et issint il lez vist armer par tout le dit viage, tanqe le
dit Geffrey (sic) estoit pris. Demandez par qei il sciet qe lez ditz
armez apparteignent au dit Monsieur Richard', dist qe par oy dire
dez veux Cluwalers et Esquiers, et qils ount toutdys continuez
lowr possessions en lez ditz armez, et par tout sowi temps, pwr lour
armeez reputeez, com comune fame et publike vois laboure 'et ad
labouree ; et auxi il dist qe quant il ad veu lez ditz armes, en baners,
en verrures, en peyntures, eu vestementz, comunement appellez lez
armez de Lescrop'. Demandez sil oiast vnqes parler quele estoit le
primer auncestre du dit Monsieur Richard' qi portast primerment lez
ditz armez, dist qe noun, ne qil ne oiast vnqes autre mes qils
estoient venuz de veille auncestre, et de dez veulx gentils howmes, et
occupiez les ditz armez. Demandez sil oiast vnqes parler com long
temps que lez auncestres du dit Monster Richard' ount vsez lez ditz
armes, dist qe noun, mes com il ad oy dire qil passe la memoir de
howme. Demandez sil oiast vnqes dascun interrupc/on ou chalange
fait par Monsieur Robe?'t Grouenour ou par cez auncestres, ou par
ascun en so\m noun, al dit Monsieur Richard' ou a ascun de cez
auncestres, dist qe noun ; mes il dist qil estoit vne foitz en Friday-
strete, en Loundres, com il alast en la rewe, il vist pendant hors vn
nouell' signe fait des ditz armez, et demandast quele herbergerie ceo
estoit, qe auoit pendu hors cestez armes du Scrop' ; et vn aut?fe luy
respondist, et dit, " Nenyl, Sieur, ils ne sount mye penduz hors pur
lez armez de Scrop', ne depeyntez la pur cez armeez, mes ils sount
depeyntez et mys la pur vne (sic) Chiualer del Counte de Chestre, qe
howme appelle Monsieur Robe?-t Grouenour " ; et ceo fuist le primer
foitz qe vnqes il oiast parler de Monsieur Robert Grouenour ou de
cez auncest?'es, ou de ascun autre portant le nou?i de Grouenour.3

1 Rethel, near Rheims. —Prof. Skeat's Life, notes 33 and 124.

2 « Armez" is interlined.

3 This passage is translated by Nicolas, in his edition of the Scrope and
Grosvenor Roll, at the end of which he gives a biography of the poet ; and

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 18

266 1386. The Annuities of CHAUCER and his Wife paid.

194.

1386, Oct. 20. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's and his wife's
annuities, to himself.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 10 Ric. II., m. 3.]
§ Die Sabbatfi, xx° die Octobm.

GalfnYZus \ Galfr^o Chaucer, armigero, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx
Chaucer. / marcas znnuas ad Scaccarium, ad totam vitam suam, ad
terminos Sancti MichaeZis et Pasche per equales portiones
percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Regi impenso
et impendendo, ac in recompensacz'owem vniws pichere vini eidem
GalfrzYZo per Dominum Regem JZdteardum, nuper Regem Anglie,
auuw Regis huiws, concede, quoh'oet die in portu Ciuitatis Londom'e,
per maims Pincerne eiusdew Domini Regis aui et heredum suorum,
ad totam vitam ipsius GalfrtYZi percipiende, vltra xx marcos sibi per
Domiuum l&divardum Regem auu??^ concessas, et per dictum. Dommum
Regem nunc confirrnatos, per literos suas patentes concessit : In
denams sibi liberat/s, per manus proprias, in pe?*soluc^orcem x
m&rcarum sibi liberandarw?^ de hniusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro
termino MichaeZis proximo preterite, per breue suum de liberate,
inter mandata de hoc termino ... ... vj li. xiijs. iiij d.

Eidem Galfr^o, cui Domimts Rex JLdivardus, auus Regis hums, xx
marcos annwas ad Scaccarmm, ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos
Sancti MichoeZw et Pasche per equales pom'ones pe?*cipiendas, pro
bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino JLdwardo Regi impenso, per
hYeras suas patentes concessit, quas quidem Uterus Dominus Rex
nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi liberal's, per manus propnas, in
persolucio?iem eiusdem certi sui, videlicet, p?*o termmo Michae/is
vltimo preterite, per brewe suum de liberate, inter rnandata de hoc
termmo ... ... ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d.

Plu%>£>a \ Ph^7^j9pe Chaucer, nuper vni domicellarww 'Philippe,
Chaucer. / nuper Regine Angh'e, cui Dominus Rex TLdwardus, auus
Regis huiws, x marcos annz^as ad Scaecariiim, ad totam
vitam suam, ad termiwos Sancti MichaeZis et Pasche per eq?/ales
porc?'ones percipiendas, p?*o bono seruicio per ipsam tarn eidem
Domino l&dwardo Regi qwam pred^c^e nuper Regine impenso, per
literas suas patentes conceal, quas quidem hVeras Dominits Rex
nunc tonurmauit : In denarws sibi libe?'at^s, per manus prvdicti
GalfrtWi, in persoluciowe??i v maxcarum sibi liberandarwm de liui?^-
modi certo suo, videk'cet, p?io termi?io MichaeZis vltimo prete?'ito, per
brewe suum de liberate, inte?* mandafa de hoc te?*miyio Ixvj s. viij d.

also in his Life of Chaucer, pp. 29—31. Prof. Skeat, in his Life, quotes Nicolas's
translation, with some variations. Other depositions were taken in the Refectoiy
of Westminster Abbey on the 19th and 30th October, and on the 12th and 19th
November ; and others in the White Hall of the Palace of Westminster oh 3rd and
5th December. The proceedings extended over five years, from 1385 to 1390.

CHAUCER paid as Knight of the Shire. His extra Customs Reward. 267

195.
1386, Nor. 28.— Precept [to the Sheriff of Ken t] for payment of the

expenses of Chaucer and his colleague as Knights of the Shire in

Parliament, viz. 211. 9s. for 61 days.

[Close Roll, 10 Ric. II., m. 16 d.]

De expenses \ Rex, Vicecomiti Northumbrie, salwtem. Precipimus
Militum. J tibi, quod de communit&tQ Comitatus predict! tarn
infra libertates qwam extra — Cioitatibu* et Burgis, de
qoilw* Ciues et Burgenses ad Parliamentum nostrum, quod apud
Weskmonasterium, primo die Oetobrw vltimo preterite, summoneri
feciinus, venerunt, dumtaxat exceptis — ha&ere f&ciatis Bertramo
Monboucher, Chiualer, et Roberto de Claueryng'. Chiualer, Militibws
Comitatus predict!, pro communit&ke eiusdem Comitatus ad Parlia
mentum predictum venientibws, triginta libras, pro expensis suis,
veniendo ad Parliamentu??i predictum, ibidem morando, et exinde
ad propria redeundo ; videlicet, pro sexaginta et quindecim diebws ;
vtroqwe predictoium Bertram! et Roberti capiente per diem quatuor
solidos. Teste, vt supra. [Teste Rege, apud Westmonasterium,
xxviij. die Nouembm.]

Goiishmlia brewia ha?;ent Milites subscripti, de su?ramis subscripts,
pro diebus subscriptis, sub eadem data ; videlicet [among others] —

Wittelmm Betenham\ Milites Comitatus Kancw, de xxiiij. li.
Galfr^us Chaucers / ix. s. pro Ixj. diebw^.1

196.
1386, Nov. 28. — Rewards to Brembre, Organ, and Chaucer, as before.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 10 Ric. II., m. 11.]
§ Die Mercury, xxviij0 die Nouembm.

Collectores Costume 1 NichoZao Brembre et Johanni Organ, Colloc-

et SubstW/)' Regis in V torib?«s Costume et Subsidy Regis in Portu

Portu Londome. J London^, et Gt&lfrido Chaucer, Contrarotula-

tori Regis in Portu predicto : In denam's eis

liberates, per assignac?'o??e?w2 eis fac^am isto die, nominibus suis p?-o-
priis, de regardo pro assiduo labore et diligencia per ipsos appositis in
omciis suis in anno vltimo elapso, pro comodo Regis, circa collecci-
onem fasB&fiorum Regis proueniencm??i de eisde??i Custuma et
Snbsidio, necnon p?*o custubws et expens/s per ipsos fact?'s causa
officij sui anted/c^i in anno predicto ... xlvj li. xiij s. iiij d.3

1 They appear to have been paid 8s. a day between them ; but if so, the
total should have been 24£. 8s.

2 " Per Assignacionem " is repeated in the roll.

3 On 7th Feb., 11 Ric. II., 1388, a similar payment of the same amount was
made to Brembre and Organ, but Chaucer is not mentioned in the entry, he
having ceased to be Controller. No such payments have been found in the Issue
Rolls for Mich. 12 and Mich. 13 Ric. II. ; so they evidently ceased to be made.

2G8 CHAUCER loses his C&tttrollerahipa of the Customs.

197.

1386, Nov. 29. — Mandate to the Collectors of Customs under
CJiaucer's survey.

[Patent Roll, 10 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 5.]

The Collectors of Customs and Subsidies in the Port of London
are commanded to pay to the Mayor and Commonalty of London
" all the Subsidy arising from wools, woolfells, and hides in the Port
aforesaid," from Easter next, till they receive the sum of 2,OOOZ., in
part payment of the 4,000?. which they have lent to the King. The
rest is to be repaid out of the moiety of a fifteenth and tenth granted
in the last Parliament. Dated 29th November.

[On m. 10 there is a similar mandate, dated 25 Nov.]

198.

1386, Dec. 4 and 14. — Appointments of successors to Chaucer in the
Controllership of the Customs and Petty Customs.

[Patent Roll, 10 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 10.]

Grant to Adam Yerdele of the office of Controller of the Custom
and Subsidy of wools, hides, and woolfells in the Port of London,
during the King's pleasure ; to receive " as much as other Controllers "
have hitherto been accustomed to receive, etc. Dated 4th December.

[Ibid. m. 4.]

Grant to Henry Gisors of the office of Controller of the Petty
Custom in the same Port, during pleasure, with the custody of the
other part of the King's seal called Coket. Dated 14th December.

199.

1387, Jan. 20. — Account of Brembre and Organ, from %9th Sept. to
4:th Dec., 1386, wlien Chaucer ivas succeeded in the Comptroller-
ship of the Customs by Adam Yerdeley ; and from kth Dec. to
this date, when Nicholas Exton succeeded Organ.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 33.]

LONDON JA — Compotus NichoZai Brembre et Johannis Organ,
Gollectorum Custumarw??z et Siibsidiorum lanarwm, pelliu??i lanutarww,
et corior«?ra in Portu Londome, per bieue Regis patem, d&ium primo
die Junij, anno viij , p?-efatis Collectoribus inde directim, et super
hunc compotum restitutuw, videlicet, de exitibws eorzmdem Custu-
111 amm et Subsidiorum a festo Sancti MichaeZis, anno x°, ante quod
festum ijdem Collectores inde computarunt ~Rotulo computarunt (sic)
Ilotulo Compotorum de Custumis, vsqwe iiijtumdiem Decembm proximo
seqiientem, sciKcet, per Ixvj dies, per visum et testimonim^ GalfrzYZi
Chauncer, Contmrotulatoris eorzwdew Cusiumarum et $\ibsidiorum

CHAUCER and his Successor survey Customs- Accounts. 269

Regis ibidem, per idem tempus, et ab eodem iiijto die ~Decembris, anno
x°, vsque xxm diem Januar?}' proximo sequentem, per visum et testimo-
niu??i Ade Yerdeley, Contrarotulatom eorwradem Custumarwwi et
Siibsidiorum Regis ibidem, sciUY-et, per xlvij dies ; quo die Rex, per
hYeras patentee datas eodem xx° die- Januara/, anno x°, assignauit pre-
f a turn Nichotem Brembre e£ NichoZawm Exton' ad predicts Custu-
mas et Subsidia in pred^cfo Portu Londome, et in singulis portubws et
locis abinde ex vtraqwe pa?*te aque Thamisie vsqwe Grauesende, et
ibidem, et ex parte Essex' vsque Tillebury, et ibidem, leuanda et
colligenda, et ad opus Regis recipienda, et ad sigillu?^ Regis quod
dicit%>- Cokett' in Portu pred^cfo custodiendw??^, q?<amdiu Regi
placuerit, ita quod de exitibus inde proueuientibus Regi ad Scaccwium
suum respondeant. A quo quidem xx° die January*, anno x°, ijdem
]NTioho?«us et Nicho/aus, Collectors, sunt inde computaturi.

*****
Summa Recep^e — x M1 CCxlj li. xs. v d.

*****
Et prefatis Contrarotulatorib248, pro vadiis suis per idem tempus,
Ixij s., de rata x li. per annum. * * *

200.

1387, March 15. — Account of More and Rauf from 2$th Sept.,
1386, to this date, under the survey of CJiaucer and of Henry
Gy sores, who succeeded Cliaucer in the Con^trollership of the
[Petty] Customs on \tih Dec., 1386.

[Enrolled Accounts, Customs, Roll 14, m. 41.]
Adhuc Hesiduum de Noua Custuma in Portu Londom'e.

COMPOTUS "VVille^wii More, vynter, et Walteri Rauf, nuper Collecto-
rum Custumar^wi Regis de quibuscumqs^e bonis et mercandisis,
Custumis lanarw?^, coiiorum, et pelliu??* lanutaraw except^, in Portu
Londoni'e, et in singulis locis abinde ex vtraque parte Aque Thamis^'e
vsqwe Grauysende, et ibidem, et exinde ex parte Essex' vsqwe Tillebury,
et ib^em, per bre^e Reg^s patens de magiio sigillo, datoi tercio die
Julij, anno viij°, supe?1 hunc compo^;^ restitutu??*, vide^'ce£, de
exitibus \\musmodi Custumar^?i in Portu et locis prech'ctfis, a festo
Sancti MichaeZis, anno x°, ante quod festum ijdem Collecfores alias
inde computarunt, llotulo Compotorww de Custunw's, vsqwe xv. diem
Marcij tune proximo sequenteni, per visum et testi?ttonium Galfrw/i
Chaucer efHenrici Gysores, successiue Cont?>arotwlatorw«*Custuman*^i
predi'c^araw ; videU'ce^, predz'c^i Qr&lfridi, Contrarotwlatoris, a dicto
festo Sancti MichaeZis, anno x°, vsq^e xiij. diem Decembm tune
proximo sequente??i, et abinde predec^i Henrici, Contrarotwlatoris
ibidem, vsque xv. diem Marcij supradz'c^m, a quo quidem xv° die
Marcij, anno x°, Johannes Organ, Ciuis Lolldon^'e, et predictns Walterus
Rauf', CollecZores Custumarw?^ prediufamm in Portu et locis pre-

270 CHAUCER to inquire into the " Raptus " of Isabella atte Halle.

, sunt inde computaturi, per brme 'Regis de magno sigillo dicto
Wille/?MO More inde director, datttm dt'cfo xv° die Mam/, anno x°,
et super hunc compofann. liberatwm. In quo coutinetur, quod, cum
Rex per liferas suas patents assignauerit p?*ed^c£os Johawnem e£
Walterum Collecfores ad Custumam predi'cfam in Portu et Portu
(sic) e£ locis predicts leuand<m colligendam, e£ recipient am ad opus
Regis, Rex mandauit eidem WilleZmo, quod de collection e sen
leuaCfone Custumaram predicfamm in Portu e£ locis predicts se
vlterius nullatenus intromittat.

*****
Sttmma Recede — D Ixli. xvs. vj d. * * *

[No payment to the Collectors.]

201.

1387, May 16. — Commission to William Rilchill,1 Geoffrey Chaucer,
and others, to inquire as to the abduction of Isabella, daughter
and heir of William atte Halle, out of the custody of Thomas
Kershill, at Chislehurst, Kent."1

[Patent Roll, 10 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 2 d.]

De inquirendo. — Rez dilec^is sibi Wille???»o Rikhill', Oalfr/^o
Chaucer, Roberto atte Kaker, et Ricanlo Stoke, s&lutem. Sciatis,
qwod assignauimus vos, tres et duos vestrwn, quorum vos, p?-efate
\\7illeZ??ie, vnum esse volumus, ad inquirendww, per s&crawentum
•proboium et legalium bominttm de Comitatu Kanc/e, per quos rei
ventas melius sciri pote?*it, qui malefac^ores et pacis no^re per tuba-
tores Isabellam, filiam et heredem Wi!le/??»i atte Halle, infra etatem
et in custodia Thome Kershill' existentem, apud Chesilhurstinventam,
rapuorunt et abduxerunt, qualiter et quo modo, et alia mala quam-
plurima ibidem pe?tpetrarunt, et de p?-emissis omni\)U8 et singulis, ac
articulis et circumstanciis premissa omma et singula qualitercu?»qw<3
conce?-nenU'bz*s plenius veritatem. Et ideo vobkff mandam?^, quod
ad ce?*tos e^c. [dies et loca] quos e#c. [vos^ tres vel duo vestrum],
quorum etc. [vos, prefate Willelme, vnum esse volumus], ad hoc
prouideritis, inquisici'o??cm inde i&ciatis, et earn distincte et ape?'te
facfam nobis in Cancellar/am no#fram sub sigillis ve-^ris etc,, [siue
trium vel duoriim vestrum], quom?yi e^c. [vos, prefate Willelme, vnum
esse volumus], et sigillis eorum per quos iacta fue?'it, sine dilactone
mittutis, et hoc bre^e. Mandauimtw enim Vicecomi'ti nostro Comitatus
predtotij quod ad certos e£c. [dies et loca] quos etc. [vos, tres vel duo
vestrum], quorum etc. [vos, prefate Willelme, vnum esse volumus], ei
scire fac?'e#z's, venire fact'a£ coramvob^6• etc., [tribusvel duobus vestrum],
quorum e^c. [vos, prefate Willelme, vnum esse volumus], tot e£c. [et

1 William Rickhill was the King's Serjeant-at-Law in 1383, and a Justice of
the Common Pleas in 1389. — Haydn.

2 After Chaucer's vaptus of Cecilia Chaumpaigne, this was a case of setting
a thief to catch a thief.— F J. F.

1387. The Annuities of CHAUCER and his Wife paid. 271

tales probos et legales homines] de balliua sua, per quos etc. [rei
veritas in premissis melius sciri poterit] et inquiri. In cuius etc.
[rei testimonium has literas nostras fieri fecimus patentes]. Teste
Rer/e, apud Westmonasterium, xvj. die Maij.1

202.

1387, June 18. — Half-yearly payments of Chaucer's and his u-ife's
annuities.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 10 Ric. II., m. 9.]
Die Martis, xviij0 die Junij.

GalfhWus \ GalfhWo Chaucer, cui Dommus Rex Edwardus, anus
Chaucer. / Regis huius, xl mareas <\.nnuas ad Scaccariuin^ ad totam
vitam suam, ad termmos Sancti Michae/is et Pasche, per
equales porcioms pe?-cipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipsum eidem
Domuio ~Edwardo Regi impenso, per hYeras suas patentes concessit,
quas quidem hYeras ~Dommus Rex mine confirmauit : In denam's
Kber&tis, per manus proprias, in persoluci'owem xx m&rcawim sibi
liberandarwm de hmusmodi ce?-to suo, videlicet, pro te?'mi?io Pasche
proximo preterito, pe?" brewe suu?» de liberate, inter mandofo de hoc
termino ... ... ... ... ... xiij li. vj s. viij d.

[Nicolas, note DD.]

Phi7//>^>a ) "Pbifiiyie Chance?*, nuper nni domicellamw Philippe, nupe>'
Chauce>'. ) Regine Anglic, cui Dotninua Rex JLdicardus, auus Regis
huius, x marcas zmiuas ad Scaccarmm^ acl totam vitam
snam, nd te?'mi?tos Sancti Michae/is et Pasche per equales porci'oraes
percipiendow, pro bono seruicio pe?' ip0am tarn eidem Domino Regi
quam Philippe, nuper Regine Anglic, impenso, per kYeras suas
patents conwssit, quas quidem UYeras Dominus Rox nunc confirmauit:
In denariw sibi liberates, per manus (U'c^i Galfri^i, in persoluc^^em
v mxrcaruni sibi liberandarwm de \m\wtmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro
Wmiwo Pasche proximo preterito, per brewe suum de liberate, inier
iiiiindafci de hoc term ino ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

203.

1387, Nov. 7. — Half-yearly payment of Chaucer's annuity.
[Issue Roll, Mich. 11 Ric. II., in. 6.]
§ Die Jouis, vij° die Nouembm.

GalfhWus ) Galfr*V7o Chaucer, cui T>omiuus Rex Edivardits, auus

Chaucer. / Regis huius, xl marcas ammas ad Scaccamum, ad totam

vitam suam, ad termi?ios Sancti MichaeZis et Pasche per

1 ^o return to this commission has been found.

2 This is the last payment to Philippa Chaucer. It maybe conjectured that
she died between this date and Michaelmas.

272 CHAUCER borrows 40s. and surrenders his 40-w«r7is Annuity.

equales pomones percipiendas, pro bono se?'uicio per ipsum eidem
Domino l&divardo Regi impenso, per k'feras suas patentee concess^,
quas quidem literas Domiuus Rex nunc confirmauit : In denariis sibi
liberates, per maims proprms, in ipersolucionem 1 s. sibi liberanda?*%7?&
de \miusmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro termmo Sancti Mich#eZis prox
imo preterite, per brewe suura de liberate, inter mandata de hoc
termiwo ... ... ... xiij li. vj s. viij d.

204.

1387, Dec. 21. — Advance of 20s. to Chaucer on his annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 11 Ric. II., m. 16.]
§ Die Sabbaft, xxj° die Decembm.

Galfr/dus ^ Galfh'do Chaucer, in denam's sibi liberals, per manus

Chaucer. / proprias, de prestito super quodam annuo certo xl

maxcarum sibi per ~Dominuni Regera concesso ad Scac-

carium, ad totam vitam suam, ad termiwos Sancti Michaels et

Pasche per equales pomones pe?-cipiendo xx s. ; vnde

Respondebit.

205.

1388, May 1. — Grant to John Scalby of the annuity 0/4:0 marks,
surrendered by Chaucer.

[Patent Roll, 11 Ric. II., p. 2, m. I.1 Godwin, App. xx.]

Pro Johanne \ ~Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., saltern. Sciatis, qwod
Scalby. J cum nos vicesimo tercio die Marcij, anno regni no^ri

primo, per hYcras nosfras patentes sub magno sigillo
nostro, approbauerim?^s et confirmaue?'imws concessionem fac^am
dilec^o Armigero nos^ro Galfr^o Chaucer per ~Dominum Edwardum,
nuper Regem Angh'e, auu??^ nostrum, de viginti marcis percipiendt*
singulis annis ad Scaccarium suu?», ad terminos Sancti MichaeZis et
Pasche pe?' equales porc«o?ies, ad totam vitam ipsius GalfrzVZi, vel
quousqwe idem auus nosteT pro statu suo aliter duce?*et ordinandww ;
Ac postmodum decimo die Aprih's, anno \wedicto, per quasdam alias
1/feras nos^ras patentes sub magno sigillo nos^ro, concesserimus eidem
GalfrzWo, in recompensac/OTzem vnius picher vini per diem, per
prefatum auu?w nostrum eidem Galfrz'^o alias concessi, pe?*cipiencb' in
portu Ciuitatis nostre London^'e per manus Pincerne p?*efati aui nos^ri,
et iwstri. pro tempore existent, seu eius locum tenentis, ad totam
vitam ipsius G&lfridi, et pro bono seruicio quod ipse nob/s impende-
bat et impenderet, viginti marcas percipiendas singulis annis ad
Scaccarium nostrum, ad totam vitam predict! Galfr^Zi, ad terminos
Sancti MichrteZis et Pasche per equales porcionQs, vltra viginti

1 This patent is also enrolled, by mistake, on the Patent Roll, 12 Ric. II.,
p. 1, m. 36, but is there struck out and vacated.

Jn. Scalby has c.'s iO-marks Annuity. Arrears of it paid to c. 273

marcas sibi per prefatum auuw nostrum concessas per d/cfos hVerns
suas patentes per nos confirmatas, percipiendas ad te?Tiiinos predictos
per equales poiciones, vt p?'edictwm est; prout in eisdem literia
pleniws continetw : Nos, ad supplicacn'owem prefati Galfh'di, e£ pro
eo quod ipse dict&s hVeras nosfras nobis in Can cellar^ nosfra restituit
cancellandas, de gvocia, nosfra specz'ali, e£ pro bono seruicio quod
Johannes Scalby nobi^ impendet in futurwm, concessimws eidem
Joha/mi decfas quadraginta marcas percipiendas singnlis annis ad
Scoccontan nos^'um, ad terminos Saucti Michaels et Pasche per
equales porcz'cwes, ad totam vitam ipsius Johannist vel quousqwe pro
siatu suo aliter duxerimus oxdinandttm. In cuius etc. Teste R^e,
apud Wssimonasterium, primo die Maij.

Pe?* brewe de priuato sigillo.

[This is partly crossed out, and the following note is added in the margin :]
Vaca?^, et restitute fuerwwtf, p?*o eo qwod Domiuus Rex infra-
scriptus, xx. die J&nuarij, anno regni sui quartodecimo, per alias
hYeras suas patentes^1 concessit 3o}\anni infrascripto xl. marcas per^
cipiend«s singulis annis, ad totam vitam suam, de exitibus Coin/-
tatus Lincolnie. Et ideo iste kYere cancellantwr et dampnantw.

206.

1388, May 13. — Half-yearly payment of Cliaucer's annuity?
[Issue Roll, Easter, 11 Ric. II., m. 7.]

§ Die Mercury, xiij° die Maij.

GalfreV?us 1 GalfrzVZo Chaucer, cui T>ominus Rex Edwardu^ anus
Chaucer. / Regis huii*?, xl mtaccts euinuas ad Scaccarium ad totam
vitam suam, ad termiwos Sancti et Pasche per equales
porczVwes percipienda^, p?*o bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino
TSdwardo Regi impenso, per hYeras suas patentes conctmY, quas quas
(«ic) quidem hYeras Domimts Rex nunc confirmauit : In denarm sibi
liberate, per manus propxias, in pe?'soluc^o?zem xx marcarsm sibi
]ibem,ndarum de \\musinodi certo suo, videlicet, pro termirco Pasche
proximo preterito, per brewe snum de liberate, inter mandata de hoc
termmo ... ... . . ... ... xiij li. vj s. viij d.

207.

1388, Dec. 1-14. — Deeds relating to the tenements formerly conveyed
by John Chaucer to Andrew Aubrey.

[Husting Roll, 117, No. 75.]

1 These are on Patent Roll, 14 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 38 ; they are very brief,
and do not mention Chaucer. The payment out of the County of Lincoln
seems to identify this grantee with John de Scalby of Grimsby, mentioned in
the Calendar of the Patent Rolls, 1388, p. 402, rather than with John de Scalby
of Scarborough, referred to by Nicolas, Life, p. 34.

2 No account is taken of the 20s. advanced to him on 21st Dec. previous ; it
is not shown on the Receipt Rolls to have been repaid.

274 Arrears of the iO-marks Annuity paid to c. through Scally.

Indenture between John Fyfhyde and others, citizens of London,
and Sir John de Montagu (Monte Acuto), junior, knight, reciting
that Sir John and Matilda Ins wife, formerly wife of John Aubrey, had
certain tenements by gift of the executors of Juliana Romayn, etc. ;
and also all those tenements which Andrew, father of John Aubrey,
had by sale and grant of John Chaucer, brother and executor of
Thomas Heyron, citizen and vintner, in the parish of St. Mary of
Aldermaricherche, which are now one tenement, and four shops of
the same tenement, abutting on Watelyngstrete, on the south, etc.
Release to Montagu. Dated at London, 1st December, 12 Richard II.

[Ibid., Nos. 76—79.]

Four other deeds relating to the same tenements, of 4th, 10th,
12th, and Uth December.

208.

1389, F.'b. 16. — 'Arrears of Chaucer' '3 annuity up to 1st May last,
paid to him by the hands of John Scalby.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 12 Ric. II., m. 10.]
§ Die Martis, xvj° die Yc)>Tuarij.

GalfhV7us } Galfn'Jo Chaucer, armigero Regis, cui Dominus Rex
Chaucer. / JLdwardus, auus Regis hums, xx marc«s taamtas ad
Scocoan'wm ad totam vitam suam, ad tennmos Sancti
MichaeZis et Pasche per equales porc^wes percipiendas, pro bono
smiitito per ipswm eidem Dowimo 'Etlwardo Regi impenso, per Kfcras
suas patentes concern^ ; ac postmodum 'Dominus Rex mine eidem
Gt&lfrido alias viginti marcas annwas ad Bcaccarium. ad totam vitam
sua??i, ad termi?ios predicts percipiendas, in recompensaci'owem vniws
pichere vini per diem per prefatum zunm eidem Galfr^o alias
concesse, percipiende in Portu Ciuitatis Londom'e per manus
Pincerne Regis pro tempore existentis vel eius locum tenentis, per
literas suas patentes concern^, vlt?'a dic^as viginti marcas annuas per
prefatum auuw superius coucessas : In denariis eidem GalfreV^o
libe?*atis, per mantf? Johoflfiis Scalby, in persolucio;iem xliij s. viij d.
eidem GalfrtWo debitorw>?i et aretro existenciu?H de quadraginta marct's
samuis suprade'c^is, videlicet, pro rata, a primo die Aprilis proximo
preterito, vsque primum diem Maij extunc proximo sequentem, quo die
Maij dictas GalfreWus literals suas patentes de dictis annuetatibws
certis de causis in C tncellari'a Regis restituit cancelland«s, per brewe
de liberate de hoc termirao ... ... ... xliij s. viij d.

209.

1389, July 12. — Appointment of Chaucer as Clerk of the Works at
Westminster Palace, the Tower of London, and elsewhere, during
his good behaviour; icith power to impress workmen, to purvey

1389. CHAUCER made Clerk of the Works at Westminster, etc. 275

materials and carriage, to pursue absconding workmen, to arrcxt
contrary people, to make inquisition as to materials embezzled,
and to sell the branches and bark of trees felled for timber ; his
wages being 2s. a day.

[Patent Roll, 13 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 30. Godwin, App. xxi.]

De Clerico ope- } Re#, Vniuersis et singulis Vicecomitibws, Maioribws,
racionu??i Re- > Balliuis, Ministris, et aliis fidelibws suis, tarn infra
gis constitute.1 J liber tates quam ext?Y« ad quos etc., salutem. Sciatis,
qwod nos, de fidelitate et circumspecc£\we dilectfi
nobt* GtSklfridi Chaucer confidentes, constituimws et assignauim^s
ipswm GalfrzYZum. Cle?*icum operacionurrc nostr&vum apud Palaciuw
nostrum Westmonasterij, Turrim nostrum Londom'e, Castrum de
Berkharapstede, Maneria nos^ra de Kenyngton', Eltham, C'aryndon',
Shene, Byflete, Cliildernelangeley, et Feckenham, necnon logiam
nostrum do Hathebergh' in foresta nos/ra de Noua Foresta, ac logias
nos/ras infra parcos nostfrosde Claryndon', Eltliam, Childernelangeley,
et Feckenham, et mutas nosfras pro falconib?/s nos/ris iuxta Charryng-
crouch', necnon gardinorwm, stagnorttm moleiidinorwn, ac clau-
surar^??i tarn parcorw??i predictoTum quam omnium. aliorw??i parcorw?*
ad eadem Palaciu?^, Turrim, Castra, Maneria, logias, et mutas
pertinencia (sic) ; et ad latamos, carpe«tarios,e^ alios operarios et labora-
tores quoscuinq^e, qui ope/•ac^or^ib^^6• nos^ris predicts necessarij
fuerint, vbicuinqwe inueniri poterunt, infra libertates et ext?*a, feodo
ecclesie dumtaxat excepto, per se et deputatos suos eligendos et
capiendos, et in dictis oper&cionibus nostris ponendos, super eisdem
operacz'i whus nos^ris ad vadia nosfra moraturos ; aceciam ad petras,
maeremiuw, tegulas, cindulas, vitrum, ferrum, plumbum, et omnis,
alia necessaria pro operacionibus nostris predicts, ac cariagiu??i pro
eisdem petris, maeremio, tegulis, cindulis, vitro, ferro, plumbo, et
aliis necessariis ad loca p?*ed/cfa, pro denariis no^ris per ipsum
GalfrtWum soluendis, per se et deputatos suos capienda et prouidenda ;
necnon ad quascumq^e solucto/ies, tarn pro vadiis dictorum ope/%ario-
lum, <\uam pro empcionibus, prouidenciis, et cariagiis, et aliis misis et
expensis quibuscumqwe dticfas operaczo?ies qualitercumqz^ tangentib^s*,
per visuin et testimoniu??i Contrarotulatoris nostri ope?*acionum p?*e-
dict&rum pro tempore existentis, faciendos ; et ad computand^w de
denariis, quos super expensis operacionu??^ predictarum percipiet, per
visum et testimoniu??i p?*efati Gont?*arotulatoris ; et ad ope?'arios, qui
pro operacicwibws p?'edic£is retenti fuerint, qui ab eisdem ope?*aci'om-
b^^5 sine licencia nosfra vel ipsius GalfreYZi recesserint, reducendos ;
et ad omnes illos, quos in hac parte contmrios inuenerit seu rebelles,
arestandos et capiendos, et eos prisonis nos^ris mancipando^, in eisdem
moratum, quousqe^e securitatem inuenerint de se?niiendo in operac/o-
nibus uoat ris, prout eis iniungetw?- ex parte nostra, ; et ad inquirendwM

1 "Extract." is also written in the margin, showing that a copy or note had
been sent to the Exchequer.

276 CHAUCER, as Clerk of the Works, takes over Stock.

per sbcramentum prdbomm et legaliu??i hominum de Comitatibus,
vbi opus fuerit, per quos rei veritas melius sciri pote?'it, si maeremiroro
vel petre, tegiile vel cindule, vitrum, ferrum, plumbum, seu alia
necessaria pro dictis oper&cionibus empta et prouisa, asportata vel
elongata fuerint ; et ad eadem maeremium, petras, tegulas, cindulas,
vitrum, ferrum, plumbum, seu alia necessaria sic elongata, vbicumqz^e
fuerint infra libertates et extra, reduci et restitui facienda ; et ad
ramos, corticem, et alia residua de arboribws pro dictis oper&cionibus
prouisis, ad opus nosfrwm, per visum et testimonium dicti Contra-
rotulatoris, vendenda, et nobtft de denariis inde prouementibtw re-
spondendww ; percipiendo pro vadiis suis in officio predicto duos
solidos per diem de denariis nosfris BUpradtc/ifl. Et ideo vob^s
mandamws, quod eidem Galfriefo ac deputatis suis in premissis
omnibus et singulis faciend^ et exequencU> intendentes sitis, con-
sulentes, et auxiliantes, quociens et prout per ips^m Galfn'cZum seu
deputatos suos ex parte nostra fueritis requisiti. In cuius etc. ;
qwcmidiu idem GalfrtV/us se bene et fideliter in eodem officio gesserit
duratura-s-.1 Te$te R^e, apud Castrum de Wyndesore, xij. die
Julij.

Per brewe de priuofo sig^7Zo.2

210.

1389, July 12.— Account of Roger Elmliam, Clerk of the Works, to
tins date, when he gave up the office to Chaucer as his successor ,
who is charged with " the dead stock " belonging to it.

[Foreign Accounts, 11 Ric. II., forula K.]

MIDDLESEX'. — Compotus Rogeri Elmham, quern Rex, per literss
suas patentes, datos vjto die Januara)', anno regni sui xj°, super huiic
Gompotum restitutes, assingnauit ad operaciones Palacij sui West-
monasterij, Turris London^e, Castri Reg^s de Wyndesore, [etc.] 3
* * * vsqwe xjm diem Julij, anno xiij°, * * *
quo die 4 idem Rogerus Elmham ofticiuw pred^c^wm, cum omnibus ad
idem officium pe?'tinentibws, et que in custodia sua fuerunt, Galfrtcto
Chauncer liberauit, per brewe Reg^ de magno sigillo suo, d&ium xij°
die Julij, dicto anno xiij°, p?*efato Rogero inde directwwi, et super
hunc compotum libe?*atu?tt : in quo continetur, quod Rex constituit et
assingnauit prefatu??i Galfr/^um Clericum operac^onu?^ predictsnum ;
ha&endww dictum. officiu??i quamdm idem Galfr^us se bene et
fideliter gesserit in officio p?*edic^o ; per quod brewe Rex precepit
dicto Rogero, qwod eidem GalfreYfo officiu??t predtc^wm, cwn omnibus

1 Agreeing with "literas patentes," omitted above, after " In cuius."

2 Mr. G. J. Morris informs us that the new number of this Privy Seal is 5329.
a There is no gerundive participle, to show what he was to do in respect of

the Works.

4 Sic ; he means that the llth July was his last day, and that he gave up
the office to Chaucer on or from the 12th.

c., Clerk of the Works. His Warrant for 3 Purveyors. 277

ad idem officium spectanto'te, qite in custodia sua existunt, libe?'et ; a
quo quidem xij° die Julij, anno xiij°, idem G-alfWt/us est inde
computaturus.

*****
Liberatio stauri mortui. — * * * Et p?'efato Galfr/rfo
Chaucer, Clerico operact6im?ft Regis, *****

[Here follows a long list of goods, utensils, implements, etc. , in the Palace,
the Tower, and other places, beginning with "8 pairs of andirons. "]

per predictum brewe Eegis de magno sigillo supra in titwlo
compoti annotatwm, et per Indenturam ipsitis Galfrwft de lecepcione,1
sicut continetur ibzWem [i. e., in Rot&lo et Cont?'arotwlo de particwlis].
De quibwsquidem viij p&ribits aundyrnes et alijs diuersis reb^s supra-
dictis idem GralfWdus debet respondere. Et lespondet infra.

Et eq^e.
*****

Londoro'o. 1 GalfWJus Chaucer, Clericus ope?•ac^onu??^ Regzs sup?'«-
Middfesex'. / d^c^aru??^, [blank] 2 de viij paribus aundirnes, quorum
pedes duorum franguntwr et deuastantwr, j para sipporwm,
et alijs diu^rsis rebws leceptis de eodem Rog^ro per Indenturam, sicut
supra continetwr.

211.

[1389, c. July 12.]— Warrant lyy Cliaucer, as Cleric of the Works, to
the Lord Chancellor, for the issue of commissions to Hugh Swayn,
Thomas Segham, and Peter Cook to purvey materials and press
workmen for the King's Works.

[Public Record Office Museum. Athciiceitm, Jan. 28, 1888, p. 116.]
All Chanceller dengleterre.

Soit faite commission a Hugh' Swayn pur puruoier, pur les
oeuereignes du Roy nosfre Seignur au Paleys de Westmonster, a les
Manoirs de Shene, Kenyngton', les Muwes ioust Charryng', Biflete,
Coldkenyngton', Claryngdon7, et au loge de Hathebergh' en la nouelle
Eoreste, pere, maerisme, tiegles, et shingell', et a,ntres choses neces-
saires pur les ditz oeuereignes, ouec la cariage dycell', et pur prendre
masons, carpentiers, et autres oeuerours et laborers necessaires pur
niesmes les oeuereignes, desouz le grand seal en due forme. Item,
semblable co?mnission desouz mesme le grand seal a Wautier Suth-
werk', pur puruoier pur le Tour de Londres. Item, semblable
commission desouz mesme le seal a Thomas Segham, pur puruoier en
semblable man ere pur les Chastel et Manoir de Berkhampstede et
Cliildernelangeleye. Item, semblable commission desouz le dit seal a

1 See No. 216.

'J This blank was left for " oneratur " or "respondet " to be filled in.

278 CHAUCER nominates a Purveyor of the King's Works.

Piers Cook',1 pur puiuoier en mesme la manere pur le Manoir de
Eltliam.

"Par GefFray Chaucer,

Clerc des ouereignes du Roy
iwsti-e Seignur.2

212.
1389, July 14. — Appointment of Hugh Stcayne, as Purveyor of the

King's Works at Westminster Palace, Shene, Kennington, and

other places, on the nomination of Chaucer.

[Patent Roll, 13 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 29.]

T>e deputato "j Rex, Vninersis et singulis Vicecomitilms, Maioribttf,
Clerici opera- I Senescallis, Firmarm, Balliuis, Prepositis, Custodibws,
ciomwi con- j Ministris, et aliis fidelibws et subditis suis, tarn infra
stituto. J liber bates qtiam ext?*a, ad quos r^c., saltttem. Sciatis,

quod assignauimus Hugonem Swayne, quem dilectfus
nob/s GalfnWus Chaucer, Clericus operacionu??i nosh-arum, sub se
deputauit prouisorem earundcm operacionuw, ad Palaciu??i nostrum
'Wesimonasterij, Maneria de Sbene, Kenyngton', Biflete, et Claryndon',
ac mutas no^ras iuxta Cbarryng', et logiam de Hatbebergh' in ISroua
Foresta [emendanda],3 et ad latomos, carpentarios, et alios operarios et
laboratores quoscumqwe, qui p?*o operaciouibua nosfris pred^'c^is
necessarij fueiint, vbicumque inueniri poterunt, infra libertates et
extra, feodo eccl^ie dumtaxat excepto, eiigendo* et capiendos, et in
diesis operacio^ibus nos^ris ponendos, ac eciam ad petram, niaere-
miu??z, tegulas, cindulas, et om?iia alia necessaria pro operacionibus
nostris predictis, ac cariagiuw pro eisdem petra, -maereniio, tegulis,
cindnlis, et aliis necessariis ad loca pred^a, pro denariis nos^ris
soluendz's, capienda et prouidenda, et onmes illos quos in liac p^rte
contrarios inuenerit seu rebelles arestando^ et capiendos, et eos
prison is nos^ris mancipandos, in eisdem moraturos, quousq^g securita-
tem inuene?*int de seruiendo nohis in operac£'ombws no^ris, prout eis
iniungetur ex parte nos^ra. Et ideo vob^s niandamz^s, quod, eidem
Hugoni tanqwam deputato ipsius G&lfridi in premissis omriftws et
singulis faciendw et exequendes intendentes sitis, consulentes, et
auxiliantes, quociens et prout per ips/mi Hugonem super biis ex
parte nos^ra fueritis premuniti. In cuius e^c. ^este Rer/e, apud
Vfestmonasterium, xiiij. die Julij.

Per billam ipaius GalfrwZi.

213.

1389, July 14 and 22. — Two payments to Chaucer, as Clerk of the
Works, for expenses at Westminster, the Tower, and elsewhere.

1 Or Cookft? ; but see No. 215. 3 Omitted ; cf. No. 215.

2 The seal is lost. This warrant was discovered by Mr. Selby ; see
jfthcnceum, Jan. 28, 1888, p. 116. The whole of the document is in an ordinary
Chancery clerk's hand, and is not signed by Chaucer. It has been suggested
that it is " probably holograph," but this is not likely.

1389. Four Payments to CHAUCER as Clerk of the Works. 279

[Issue Roll, Easter, 12 Ric. II., m. 13.]

§ Die Mercura/, xiiij0 die Julij.

GalfrtVZus \ GalfnWo Chaucer, Clerico operacionu??i Do??mri Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciwtt ~West,monastei*ij, Tumm Londome, et ad
alia dinersa castra et maneria Regis : In denam<? sibi
liberates, per mauws propiias, super operibws p?-ed/ctis, per brewe
suum currens de pn'uato sigillo, inte?' manda/a de hoc termino

xx li. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo ad Scaccarium
Qowpotorum, ~Rotulo xiiij0, Rotfwlo Conipoiorum.

[Ibid., m. 17.]
§ Die Jouis, xxij° die Julij.

GalfnVius \ Galfr/t?o Chauce?', Cle?ico opmiciomm Regis infra
Chaucer. / Palachm 'Westmonasterij, Turrim London^'e, et ad alia
diuersa castra et maneria Regis, per diue?*sas talh'as
leuatas isto die, continentes C iiijxx li., eidem GalfrV^o liberata^,
videlicet, per maims Jolia/mis Hermesthorp' Cli., super operibws
ex^ra Turrim pred/cfam de nouo faciendzs, et per manus proprias
iiijxx li. super operib?£s predictis, pe?* brewe suwn currens de priuato
sigillo, inter mandata de hoc termiwo ... ... Ciiijxx li. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo, vt supra.

214.

1389, Oct. 7 — 1390, March 4. — Seven payments to Chaucer, as
Clerk of the Works, for expenses at Westminster, the Tower, and
elsewhere.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 13 Ric. II., m. 1.]
§ Die Jouis, septimo die Octobr/s.

GalfnV7us \ GalfhVio Chaucer, Clerico operacionwra Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciu??i Westmonastery, Turr/m Londome, et ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denams sibi
X Per assignacionem sibi factam isto die, videlicet, per manus
Hermesthorp', Clerici, super oper&cionibus iuxta Turri?^
fiaciendis, per brewe de liberate, inter mandata de te?*mmo Pasche prox-
imo preterite ... ... ... Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo ad Scacca?*mm
Compotorww, Rotulo xiiij0, Ro^wlo Compotorwm.

[Ibid., m. 8.]
§ Die Marti s, xxiij0 die Nouembr^.

GalfriWus "I GalfrzVio Chauce?-, Cle?*ico operacionu??i Domini Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciu??i Domini Regis, Turri?^ Londom'e, et ad

alia diue?*sa castra et maneria Regis, per duas talh'as

leuatrw isto die, continentes 1 li., eidem Clerico liberates, per manus

280 1389. Four Payments to CHAUCER as Cleric of the Works.

proprias, super certis operacionibws Regis iuxta Turr/w facieiuU'*, P^>'
brewe simw currens, vt supra ... ... ... Hi. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compote suo, vt supra.

[Ibid., m. 10.]
§ Die Mercury, primo die Decembr/s.

Galfr/Yftu \ GalfriYfo Chaucer, Clerico operacionu?» Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciura Westmonasterij, Tum'w Londom'e, et "ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis, per vnam tsMiam
letiataw isto die, continentem vijli. ij s., eidem Clerico libe?-ata??^
136?* manus Ricardi Swyft, capital^ Carpentan)' Regis, super officio suo,
per brewe de liberate dicti Clerici, vt supra ... vij li. ij s. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et vespondet inde in compofo suo, vt supra.

[Ibid., m. 12.]
§ Die Martis, xiiij0 die Decembm.

Galfrzc?us \ Galfr^O Chaucer, Clmco operacionu??^ "Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciu??^ Westmonasterij, Tunim London^'e, et
ad alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denams sibi
liberate, per assign acionem sibi factam isto die, videlicet, pe?1 manus
Johannis Hemiesthorp', super operibw^ predzc^is, per brewe suuwi
currens de priuato sigillo, inter mando/a, vt supra ... Cli. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo, vt sup?-a.

[Ibid., m. 15.]
§ Die Veneris, xxiiij*0 die Decembm.

Galfr/cZus ^ GalfreWo Chaucer, Clerico operacionu?^ ~Domi\\i Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciu?^ Westmonasterij, Turrim London/e, et ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis, pe?' vnam talliain
leuatam isto die, continente??i Cviij s. viij d., eide??i liberatam, per
nmnus Thome Segge,1 super officio suo, per brewe de libe?-ate dicti
[Clerici] 2 vt supra ... ... ... Cviij s. viij d. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo, vt supra.

[Ibid., m. 26.]
§ Die Veneris, tercio die Marcij.

Galfridus \ Galfrido Chaucer, Clerico operacionu?^ Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciuwi Westmowa^eri}", Tnnim Londonz'e, et ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denam's sibi
liberate, per assignacionem s^6i factam isto die, super operib?^ p?-e-
di'c^is, per bre7<e suum currens de prmato sigillo, inter mandate de
termino Pasche proximo preterito ... liij li. vj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo, vt supra.

1 Qu. Segham ; see Nos. 211, 215. a Omitted.

Payment to CHAUCER as Clerk of Works. He names 3 Purveyors. 281

[Ibid.}

§ Die Sabbaft, quarto die Marcij.

GalfrzVius \ GalfWcZo Chaucer, Clerico operacionu??i Domini Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciu?^ Westmonasterij, Tum'm Londom'e, e£

ad alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denams sibi

liberates, videlicet, per manus propiias, super operibws predicts, per

brewe suu??i de liberate, inter mandata, vt supra

xiij li. vj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo, vt supra.

215.

1389, Oct. 12. — Appointments of Peter Cook at EWiam, Thomas
Segham at Berkhampsteadt and William Sutlmerk at the Tower,
as Purveyors to the Works under Chaucer^ at his instance.1

[Patent Roll, 13 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 8.]

De deputatis \ Rex, Vniuersis et singulis Vicecomitibws, Maioribws,
Cle?*ici opera- I Senescallis, Firmariis, Balliuis, Prepositis, Custodib?^,
c^onum as- j Ministris, et aliis fidelib?<s et subditis suis tarn infra
signal's. J libertates quam extra, ad quos e#c., salwtem. Sciatis,
quod assignauimws Petm??i Cook', quern dilecfus ser
mons no^er Galfr^us Chaucer, Clericus ope?'acion^??z nos^rarw??i, sub
se deputauit p?'ouisorem eauundem ope?'acionu??i, ad Maneriura de
Eltham, vna cum clausuris parcorw??*, reparac^o?^e molendinorw??2, et
capite stagnor^??^ d^c^o Manerio pertinentibws, emendandww, et ad
latomos, carpentarios, et laboratores quoscumqwe, qui pro operaca'ombws
nos^ris predicts necessarij fue?*int, vbicumque inueniri poterunt, infra
libertates et ext?*«, feodo ecclesie dumtaxat excepto, eligendos et
capiendos, et in dz'cfts ope?*aczo7iibus nos^ris ponendos, ac eciam ad
petram, maeremium, tegulas, cindulas, et oiiwia alia necessaria pro
operacz'ombus nosfris predictis, ac cariagiuw pro eisdem petra,
maeremio, tegulis, cindulis, et aliis necessariis ad loca pred/cfa, pro
denariis nosfris soluencU's, capienda et prouidenda, et om?^es illos quos
in hac pa?'te contraries inuene?'it sen rebelles arestandos et capiendo^,
et eos prisonis nos^ris mancipandos, in eisdem moraturos, quousqwe
securitatem inuenerint de se?'uiendo nob^s in operacionibws nos#ris,
p?*out eis iniungetwr ex parte nostra. Et ideo vobis rnandanms, quod
eidem Petro tanqwam deputato ipsius GalfrtWi in premissis omnibus
et singulis faciendi's et exequend^s intendentes sitis, consulentes,
respondentes, et auxiliantes, quociens et prout per ipswm Petrum
super hiis ex parte nos^ra fueritis premuniti. In emus etc,. ;
qwamdiu nobis placuerit duraturas. Teste Re^e, apud Westmo-
nasterium, viij. die Octobns.

Per billam ipsius GalfhWi.

Eodem modo assignantw?' subscript! prouisores \\u\usmodi ope?'aci-
onwn in locis subscK^>fo's, sub data subscripta, videh'cet :

1 See No. 211.
LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 19

282 The Kinrf* Dead Store handed to c. as Clerk of the Works.

Thomas Segham, apud Castmm et Manerium de Berkhampstede

et Childernelangeleye. Teste, vt supra.
Walterus Suthwerk', apud Turrhn 'Regis Londom'e. Teste, vt

supra.

216.

1389, Nov. 10. — Indenture between Roger Elmham, late Clerk of the
Works, and Cliaucer, as to the deliver y of " dead store" to the
latter.

[Exchequer Accounts, etc., Works, ^l3-, No. 2. A file of parchment
documents, subsidiary to the Accounts of Roger Elmham, Clerk of the Works,
11-13 Ric. II. Among them is the .following Indenture.]

HEC INDENTUTZA, facia, inter Eogerum Elmham, nuper Clericum
operacionum Regis, ex parte vna, et Galfridum Chauncere, Clericum
earunde??i operacaonum, ex parte altera, testat^«•, quod predictus
Kogerus, virtute brewis Eegis de magno sigillo sibi directs, libe?-auit
pred&fo Galfrido omwes parcellas mortui stauri Reg/s subscripts,
videlicet : INFRA PALACIUX WESTM.ONASTERIJ, viij parm aundyerns,
quorum pedum ij franguntw et deuastantz^r, j par scipporum, j
patella, j rake, j ladel, et j soudowr pro officio plumbara)', j ymago
era's, ij ym&gines lapidee non depicte, vij ym&gines facte ad si'militu-
dinem Regwm, xv claui vocati clergynguaill' pro officio vitriara)', ij
molendina manuah'a, quorum deficiu[n]t ij paria wynches', j lathe pro
ofticio carpentar^/, j parua campana vocata Wyron', j gwssum fern'
cum toto apparatw, j crowe fern', j instmmentum vocatum ramme,
cuius stipes J frangittw et deuastatwr,1 j gwssus anulws in supe?'iori
p«?*te, et les stayinghokes franguntwr. et deuastant^r, j trabs fen'i
stannat^ cum statera lignea, diuersa pondera plumb* continence
CCxlj libras, ij gwssa fanes nuper facta pro magna Aula, ij spyndles
ferri pro eisdew, j olla plumbea pro glutine, v casus ferret pro
fenestre's vitrets, certe pa?-celle jus carre facte pro Rege Edwardo,
videlicet, ij pan'a rotarum ferro ligatorum, iiij pec*e pro celur'
camere, viij pecie ordinate p?*o cost^s dicte camere, iiij pecz'e p?*o
cosh's Aule, j som' cum ax', ij staybarres fern stannat*, xij pecz'e
meremij pro carra predicta, j countre cooperbum de nouo cum virid*
panno pro domo compoft, j stopp', j botell' pro incausto, j pixis pro
pulue?*e, j picois', ij scale, j cable, xij hirdles pro scaffoldes, j par de
lyst' dupl' continent' \sic\ in circuits xxxij pertica^os, j quartron', viij
libre stannz' pro soudur', xxj panell' vitr' in easibus ferret firmat' pro
fenestrw camere Regs's, CCxv petre de Stapulton' continentes xliij
doliat', j par potentegarnett' pro quodam osU'o, j par gross' potente-
garnett' cum iiij boltes ferrezs, ij coler' fern nuper facta ^>ro quodam
ponte vertib/1/, iij vertiuelk' ferret pro osiiis, iiij hopes ferri pro
lotis cam, ix [ajnuk* ferret pro barrur' p>-edict' lyst', j vetus trabs pro
ponder', j vetws ferramentM??i, ij tabwle pro office vitrian)',

1 These words are interlined, but seem to be unnecessary.

Tlie King's Dead Store handed to c. as Clerk of the Works. 283

vua est parua, ij slynges p?-o le crane, ij tribula ferrate, quamm j
debih's, ij crowdeweyns, xij petre de Reygate pro ij fenestm. ITEM,
INFRA TUBRIM LoNDON/E : v machine et j tribugettww, alias vocatum
j parua machine, quaru??i j ax', j cauillww fern vocatum why[n]che-
pyn, ix byndyngcordes, et iij rote omnino deuastantwr, j par
aundyerns, j fern', cuius virga pe?'usitatw, j ramme cum toto
appa?-atz*, excepta j drawyng cord', qwe frangitwr et deuastatwr, j
campana vocata Wyron', j fryingpanne, ij crowes fern, ij grossi
vertiuelli ferret, j gross' barrur' fern, j patella, j rake, j ladel pro
offici'o plumbara)', C petre rotunde vocate engynstones, j petra mar-
morea, j lathe pro officio carpentari)', j ferramentw?^ vocatum grate, j
vetns ferramentzwz defractw??fc, j mounceir et dimidium plastr', j
bekett' [boketf], j tribulim non ferratw??i, v scaffaldhirdles, ij scale.
ITEM, INFRA MANERIUM DE SfiENE : v parta aundyerns, v furce
fern pro camera Regis, j par scippo?*wm debilttttw, j crowdewayn
debile, ij trendies eris, j cord' pro le crane, j picois', ij t?^'bula ferrate,
j vanga ferrata pro operibws gardini, j tina, j cribrzm, iij tabwle
mensales, cum iij paribus tn'stell', iij formule, j howe. ITEM, INFRA
MANE/JIUM DE ELTHAM : j howe, j vanga pro operib?^ gardini, ij wag'
plumbi, j plumbum operatw??z pro fornac', j fern', j brock' cum to to ap-
para#w, xij scafFaldlogges, j crowe fern, j picois', j tribolum ferratw??z,
iiij scaifaldhirdles, j boketf, j bolle p?-o mortarzo intus portando, j
cable defractzm, j bosse, j tina debik's, j skom', j ladel, et j soudowr
p?'o offici'o plumban)', j dragg' ferreww pro muwdactotw stagni, j
crowdewayn, j cord' pro ponte vertibzli, j pipa vacua pro aqua int?<s
carianda. ITEM, INFRA MANEKIUM DE KENYNGTON' : iij par/a
aundyems, ij scale, j iribulum ferratz//m, ij tn'bula non ferrata. ITEM,
INFRA MANJSfliUAr DE CniLDERNELANGELEY : x pecie meremij fabricate, ij
logger scap?date, j resne, liiij raftres, Ixx pecz'e meremij non scap^late,
xxviij estrichbord', dimid' moiwcell' plastr', xxli grossz claue cum
capiteo?^ stannatis, iij crowdewayns, iij cribra, quorum ij debih'a, iij
bolles, iij trayes p?'o plastr' int^s portando, j mattok, j picois', iij
i)'ibu]a et j vanga ferrata, iiij gro&w' vertiuelh' cum iiij stonhokes pro
eisde?/?, j cable nouum. ITEM, INFRA MANETZIUM DE BYFLETE : j
instrumentum vocatum bill', et j cord' pro operibws ib^em. In cuius
rei testimonial p?fesenti7ms indentwris partes p?'edicte sigill« sua
alte?'nati??i apposuerunt. Datw??^ apud Westnwiasterium, decimo die
Nouembris, anno regni Regis Ricarcft secw?^di post Conquestwm xiij°.

[A fragment of a seal remains, probably Chaucer's, the counterpart of this
Indenture being on the file of his subsidiary documents, No. 236. This
inventory is recited in Nos. 210 and 231. Elmham's file also contains a similar
indenture between Arnold Brocas and himself on his entering into the office of
Clerk of the Works, dated 27 June, 12 Ric. II., 1388.]

217.

1390, March 12. — Commission to Sir Richard Stury and others ,
including Chaucer, to survey the walls, ditches, seivers bridges,

284 CHAUCER, etc., to survey the Thames Banks and Bridges.

etc., on the coast of the Thames, between Greenwich and Woolwich,
to inquire by whose default they have been suffered to decay,
whereby great damage has been occasioned, and to compel the
owners of lands, tenements, and common of pasture and fishery
to repair the same walls, etc., according to the law of the Marsh.
[Originalia Roll, 13 Ric. II., m. 30.]
De walH'w et fossatw.

"Ksaicia. — Rex, dilectz's et fidelibws suis l&icardo Stury, Chiualer,1
Johanni Wadham, WilleZmo Skrene, Galfr%£o Chaucer, Hermco
Vanner, et Joha?mi Culpepir, salubem. Cum wallie, fossata, guttere,
sewere, pontes, calceta, gurgites, et trenchee super costeram aque
Thamiss'e, inter villas de Wolwyche et Grenwyche, et ibidem, in
Comitatu Kancie, per impetum aque predate ac refluxus et inundacz-
ones eiusdem aque, in diuersis locis inter dict&s villas, et ibidem, adeo
diruta sint et confracta, [q^od qwamplurima dampna inestimabilia, pro
defectfu eortmdem walliara??i, fossatorwm, gutteram??i, sewerarwm,
ponciwtt, calcetora??i, et gurgitum, ac obstrucczoms trenchearww
illaram, retroactis temporitms euenerunt ibidem, maioraqwe processu
temporis euenire timentwr vel formidantwr, nisi super hoc celerius
adhibeatwr remednm oportunu??i : Nos, pro eo quod, rac^'one dignitatis
nos^re regie ad p?'0uidendzm saluaciowi regni nostn circumquaq?^e
sum?^ astricti, volentes in hac parte congruu?^ et festinu??* remediu??i
adhiberi, assignauimws] vos, quinqwe, quatuor, tres, et duos vestrum,
quorum aliquem vestrum vos, prefati Johannes Wadham et Willelme,
vnum esse volumw^, ad superuidend?/?^ [wallias, fossata, gutteras,
seweras, pontes, calceta, gurgites, et trencheas p?*edicifa, et ad
inquirend^tt per sacmmentum tarn Militum quam aliorw??^ probor?*?^
et legalium hominum de Comitatu pred^cfo, tarn infra liber tates
qwam extra, per quos rei veritas melius sciri pote?it, pe?1 quorum
vel cuius defectu??^ \mmsmodi dampna contigerunt ibidem, et
qui terras et tenementa tenent,'«aut commun&m pasture sen piscarie,
in partibus illis, vel eciam defensionem, commodur^, et saluaciowem
ha&ent, vel qualite>*cumq^e per wallias, fossata, gutteras, seweras,
pontes, calceta, et gurgites p?*edi'c£a haftere poterunt, sen eciam
dampnu??i per trencheas prech'cfas sustinent vel sustinere poterunt,
et ad omnes illos pro quantitate ierrarum et tenementorum suorum,
siue per numeru??i acrarw??^, siue per carucatas, pro rata porc^o??is
tenure sue, seu pro quantitate commune pasture vel piscarie
sue ibidem, distringendos per amerciarnenta, et alio modo quibws
melius videritis faciendis puniendos, vna cum balliuis liberta-
tum et aliorwm (sic) de partibws illis, ad huiusmodi wallias, fossata,
gutteras, seweras, pontes, calceta, et gurgites in locis necessariis
reparanda, et quociens et vbi necesse fuerit de nouo faciend(«, ac
trencheas predtc^as in locis necessariis de nouo obstruenda ; Ita q^od

1 Sir Richard Stury is mentioned along with Chaucer by Froissart, under
date of 1377 ; No. 102.

CHAUCER to survey TJtames Banks, etc. Is paid for Purveyor. 285

aliquibws tenentibws terras seu tenementa \\u\usmodi, vel communam
pasture vel piscarie h«7;entib^s, diuiti vel pauperi, aut alter! cuius-
cumqwe condicttmis fue?it, status, aut dignitatis, qui commodwn et
saluac'/oftem h«fcent vel ha&ere pote?'unt qualitercumqwe per predicts,
wallias, fossata, gutteras, seweras, pontes, calceta, et gurgites, seu
eciam dampnura per trencheas prech'c#as ha&ent vel haftere poterunt,
siue fue?'int infra liberates vel extra,] l non parc&iur in hac parto ; ac
ad premissa omma et singula audienda et terminanda secundum. legeni
marisci et regni nostri Anglie. Et ideo vobis mandamws, quod ad
ce?'tos etc. [dies et loca] quos etc* ad hoc prouideritis predicts, wallias,
fossata, gutteras, seweras, pontes, calceta, et gurgites superuideatis, et
p?-emissa om?«ia et singula i&ciatis et expleatis in forma pred^cfo, et
onim'a que per vos ordinari et fieri contigerit in hac pa?'te tarn infra
libertates (±uam extra f&ciatis firmiter obseruari ; f«c#uri e£c. ;
saluis etc.2 Mandauiintw enim ^ficecomiti nostio Comitatus predicti,
quod ad ce?-tos e^c. quos etc. ei scire i&ciatis, coram vobis etc. tot etc.
de balliua sua, pe>' quos etc. et inquiri. In emits etc. Teste Ee^e,
apud Westmonasteritmi, xij. die Marcij.

[There are similar commissions for Lincolnshire and Middlesex, to other
persons. Wadham and Skre-ne were also in the Middlesex commission.]

218.

1390, April 19. — Mandate to- the Exchequer to attwv to Chaucer, in
his account, the wages of Hugh Swayn, Purveyor for the King's
Works.

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Hilary, 14 Ric. II., Brcvia, roll 21.]
Pur Geffray \ RICHARD, pa?' la grace de Dieu, Roy, e£c., As Tresorer
Chaucer. / et Barons de nos^re Eschequer, saluz. Nous volons
et vous mandons qen laeonte quel nostre Ibien ame
Geffray Chaucer, Clerc de noz oeuereignes, est arendre deuant vous
a cause de son dit office, lui facez allouer, par son serement, et par
tesmoignance du Contreroullour de noz ditz ouemgnes, les gages de
deux soldz la symaigne, paiez par le dit Geffray a Hugh' Swayn,
purueiour des choses necessaires et appwtenantz a noz ouereignes
auantde'cfes, et auxi les gages ou regardz paiez par le dit Geffray
nieius que les gagez auantditz a autres purueiours pour les ditz
oeuereignes a diuerses temps, quant ils estoient occupiez entour
purueiances faire pour mesmes les oeuereignes, du iour que le dit
Geffray estoit primemiient chargeez de son dit office, et ensi
tantcome il se?Ta en ycel, par manere qils ont estez paiez auant ces
heures. Done souz nosfae priue seal, a Westmcmsfer, le xix. iour
daueriir, Ian de nostiQ regne treszisme.

1 The portions in brackets are supplied from a similar Commission to other
persons in the County of Lincoln, to which reference is made hi the Kentish
Commission. 2 See p. 261, lines 5 — 8.

286 SU Payments to CHAUCER for Repairs at Windsor, etc.

219.

1390, June 4 — July 19. — Six payments to Chaucer, as Clerk of the
Works, for expense's on St. George's CJiapel in Windsor Castle,
at the Toiver, and elseivhere. Several agents of his are named.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 13 Ric. II., m. 8.]
§ Die Sabba£i, quarto die Junij.

Galfh'dus \ Galfh'do Chaucer, Clerico operacionwn Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciwa Westmonasterij, Turmra Londom'e, et ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denarm sibi
liberates, videlicet, per manus Roberti Gamelston', pro petra ab eo
empta super reparacione Capelle Regis infra Castrum de Wyndesore,

per brewe de pn'uato sigi'ZZo, vt supra xli. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et respondet inde in compoto suo ad Scacc&riuw.
Cowpotorum, Rotulo xiiij0, ~Rotulo Compotorum.1

[Ibid., m. 10.]
§ Die Mercura}', xv° die Junij.

GalfnWus ] Galfh'do Chauce?-, Cle^-ico operacionum "Domini Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciuw ~Wesimonasterij, Turrtm London^, et ad

alia diue?*sa castra et inaneria Regis, per vnam talliam

leuatam isto die coniinentem Cli., eidem Clerico liberatam, videlicet,

per manus Johtmms He?'mesthorp', super operibus iuxfa Tumwi

faciendis, per brewe suuni de liberate, inter mandafa, vt sup?*a . . .

C li. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compo^o suo, vt supra.

[Hid., m. 11.]
§ Die Yeneris, xvij° die Junij.

GalfhWus \ Galfr^Zo Chaucer, Clerico ope?-acionuw Domim. Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciu?^ Westmonasterij, Tvarim Londom'e, et ad

alia diue/'sa castra et maneria Regis : In denaras sibi

libe?*atw, per manus proprias, ad duas vices, iiij li. xiij s. iiij d. super

operiltus pred^is, per brez^e de libe>-ate dicti Cle?ici, vt sup?-a . . .

iiij li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et respondet in4e in compofo suo, vt supra.

[Ibid.]
§ Die Sabba^i, xxv10 die Junij.

Galfr/^us \ Galfr^Zo Chaucer, Cle?ico operacionu??i Do?>w'ni Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciuwi Wesimonasterij, Tunim Londonz'e, et ad
alia diuersa castra et inaneria Regis : In denam's sibi
liberat/s, per assignacionein sibi factam isto die, super operib^fs pre-
di'c^is, per brewe de liberate d^'c^i Clerici, vt sup?-a ... xxli. ; vnde
Rjspondebit. Et lespondet inde in coinpo^o suo, vt supra.

1 See No. 237.

CHAUCER paid for repairs. His Jousts-Scaffolds at Smithfield. 287

. 14.]
§ Die Sabbotf, ix° die Julij.

GalfnWus \ Galfr^Zo Chaucer, Clerico operaciomwz, T>o?nim Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciu??i Wesimonasterij, Tum'w Londom'e, et ad

alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis .• In denam's sibi

liberates, per nianus propiias, ad duas vices, super cariagzo petrarawz,

pro operibws magne Capelle Regis, infra Castruw de Wyndesore

situate, per brewe de liberate d/c#i Clerici, vt supra ... xx 1L ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compctfo suo, vt supra.

[Ibid., m. 16.]

§ Die Martis, xix° die Julij.

GalftiJus \ Galfndfo Chauce?', Clerico operacionum T>omi\\\ Regis
Ghauce?\ / infra Palacium Westmonasterij, Turrim Londonie, et ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denarm sibi
liberates, per assignacionem sibi facfem isto die, videh'ret, per nianus
Jolm?mis Lakynghith', Monachi, xxli.,supe7* operibws Capelle Sancti
Georgij infra Castrum de Wyndesore, et pe?' nianus Ric«rdi Swyft,
Carpentarij, per prede'cfoim assiguacionem, xj li. ij s.} necnon in
moneta, per nianus Joha/mis Wylton', Clerici, x li., super operibus
predictis, pe?* brewe generale de priuato sigillo, termino Michae/is
proximo preterite ... ... ... ... xlj li. ij s. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo, vt sup?'a.

220.

1390, July 1. — Mandate to the Exchequer to allow Chaucer his costs
for the scaffolds made for the King and Queen at the jousts in
Smith field, in May last.1

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Hilary, 14 Ric. II., Bre via, roll 19 d.]
P^r Geffrey ) Richard, par la grace de Dieu, Roy e£c., As Tresorer
Chaucer. } [et] Barons de nostie Escheqer, saluz. Nous vous
mandons qe en laconte quele nosfre ame Esquier
Geffrey Chaucer, Clerc de noz ouereignes, est a rendre deuant vous
a cause de son office, lui facez allouer, par sou?* serement, les
coustages faitz entour les EskafFaldes in Smythfeld', qeux il fist faire
pur nous et pur no^re treschere compaigne la Reigne, a cause des
ioustes en Smythfeld', en moys de Maij darein passe. Done sous
nosfre priue seal, a Westmowsfer, le primer iour de Juyl, Ian de no«£re
regne quatorzisme.

221.

1390, July 12. — Appointment of Chaucer to repair St. George's
Chapel, Windsor, and to take masons, carpenters, and other
workmen wherever found, except in Church lands, for that

1 Another writ on this subject was dated 4th Oct. ; see p 305, and No.
242 (6).

288 CHAUCER'S Repairs at Windsor. Wm. Hannay to check him.

purpose, for the term of three years ; and of William Hannay,
Controller of the Works at Westminster, to counter-roll Chaucer's
expenses.

[Patent Roll, 14 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 33. Godwin, App. xxii.]
De Capella ^ ~Rex, dilecto Armigero nostro G-alfr?Wo Chaucer,
Castri ~Regis I Clerico operacionu??! nostrarum, salwtem. Scias,
de Wyndesore f quod assignauimws te ad Capellam nosfram Collegia-
emendanda.1 J lem Sancti Georgij infra Castrum nostrum de
Wyndesore, que minatwr mine et in punctu ad
terram cadendi existit, nisi cicius facto, et emendata f uerit, sufficients*
fieri faciendaw, et ad latomos, carpentarios, et alios operarios et
labora tores pro operaczombws eiusde?^ Capelle necessarios, vbicumqwe
infra libertates vel extra, feodo ecclesie excepto, inueniri poterunt, per
te et deputatos tuos eligendos et capiendos, et eos super operacionibus
p?'ed^c£is ponendos, ibidem ad vadia nostra qwamdiu indiguerit
moraturos ; et ad petras, maeremiuw, vitru??i, plumbu?^, et omnia, alia
pro operaca'ombws p^^edzctis necessaria, aceciam cariagiim pro p?*emissis
ad Castru??^ nostrum predictum, ad locum vbi dicta, Capella sic fac^a
fuerit, ducendi's, capienda, p?io denariis no^^ris raaonabiliter
soluendis, tarn p?*o p?'emissis quam pro cariagio p?*ed^'c#o, pe?* super-
nisum et testimonium Uoatrcffotulatoria operacionuw nostr&vum
Palacij nostri Weskmonasterij ; et ad omwes illos, quos in hac pa?'te
cont?'arios inueneris seu rebel les, capiendos, et prisonis nosfris
mancipandos, in eisdem moraturos quousq?^e de eis aliter duxerimw-s
ordinandum. Et ideo tibi precipimus, quod circa p?'emissa diligenter
intendas et exequaris in forma predicts. Damus autem vniuersis
et singulis Vicecomitib^s1, INTaioribi^, Balliuis, Ministris, et aliis
fidelibz^s et subditis nos^ris, tarn infra libertates quam ext?Y«, tenore
presenciu??i in mandatis, qwod tibi et deputatis tuis pred^cifis in-
tendentes sint, consulentes, et auxiliantes, prout decet. In cuiws etc.,
per triennim?i duraturas. Teste ~Rege, apud Wesimonasterium, xij.
die Julij.

Per billa?^ de priuato sigillo.

T&ex, dilec^o cle?ico no^ro Willelmo Hanney, Contrarotulatori
operacionu??i Palacij iwstri Westmonasterij, salwtem. Sciatis, quod,
cum per liteias no^ras patentes assignauerimz^ dilec^an Armige?-um
nostrum GalfnWum Chaucer, Cle?icum operacionu?^ iwstiavum, ad
Capellam nosfram Collegialem e^c., vt supra, vsque ibi, supe?*uisum,
et tune sic, et testimoniu??! vesfra, p?'out in l?7eris nosfris patentibws
inde confec^is pleniws continetw : Nos, de fidelitate et circumspecc^owe
ve^fris plenms confidentes, assignauimws vos ad quoscumqwe denarios
per prefatuw Galfrw^um supe?* reparations et emendac/owe Capelle
pred^c^e apponendos, ac pro cariagio et aliis premissis soluendos,
cont?'arotulaiido^, et super compoto suo ad Scaccarium nostrum

1 " Extract'" is also written in the margin, showing that this patent, like
No. 209, may also be found on the Originalia Rolls ; see pp. 301, 309.

CHAUCER allowd Henry de Yeveley's arrears. Payment to c. 289

testifi candos. Et ideo vobis mandanms, quod circa premissa diKgenter
intendatis, et ea facial's et exequamini in forma predicts,. In emus
etc., per trienniuw duraturos. Teste, vt supra.1

Per bill«?ft etc.

222.

1390, Oct. 18. — Mandate to the Exchequer to allow to Chaucer, in his

account, the arrears due to Henry de Yeveley on his grant of I2d.

a day from 7th March, 1378, " during the King's Works."
[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Hilary, 14 Ric. II., Brema, roll 22.]
Pro GalfHtZo \ Rex, Thesawran'o et Baronib^s suis de Scaccario,
Chauncer. / sa.\ute?n. Cum Domimis ILdivardus, nuper Rex
Angh'e, auus nosfer, per liteias suas patentes, quas
septimo die Marcij, anno regni nosfri primo, confirmauimus, con-
cesserit dilecfo sibi Henn'co de Yeuele,2 quod ipse h« &eret et pmnperet
duodecim denarios per diem ad totam vitam suam, videlicet,
durantibws ope?*acionibws in Palacio dicti aui nostri Wesimonasterij
et in Turri Londom'e, vel in alte?'o loconm predictoium, per manus
Clerici opmicionu??i predi'cfar?/m qui pro tempore foret, prout in
hYeris et confirmac/orae p?-ed/c#is plenius continet?/r ; ac per brewe
no^rwm preceperimus Galfrtc?o Chaucer, Cle?*ico ope^-acionu?/*
predivt&rum, q?«od eidem Henrzco id quod ei aretro foret de p?-edz'c£is
duodecim denarys diurnis a predicto septimo die Marcij solueret,
iuxta tenorem Kferamw et confirmac^oms predictsnum : Vob/s
mandamus, qz^od, visp mandate nos^ro p?-ed/c^o, id quod vobis
constare poterit prefatum G&l£ridum eidem Henn'co pretextu man-
dati nostri predict! in hac p«?*te race'onabiliter soluisse, eidem
Galfr/Jo in compoto suo ad Sc«cca?'^m pred*c^?)i debite allocetis,
recipientes a p?-efato Galfr?'c?o 1/^eras acquietancie ipsius Henr?'c/
sufficientes in hac pa?-te, ac mandatum supradic^a (sic) ; aliquo
mandate nosfro vobis prius in contraiiu??z directo non obstante.

me ipso, apud Wesimonasterium, xviij. die Octobns, anno legni

i quartodecimo.

223.

1390, Oct. 28—1391, March 20. — Seven payments to Chaucer as
Clerk of the Works. The Wool Quay is repaired and houses are
built near the Tower for the weighing of Wools. Several agents
of his are named.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 14 Ric. II., m. 2.]
§ Die Jouis, xxviij0 die Octobm.

GalfnWus ^ GalfnWo Chaucer, Clerico operacionu?^ T)omim Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palachuft Westmonasterij, Turrim London?'e, et

alia diue?-sa castra et inane?-ia Regis : In denam's sibi

1 Hannay's accounts as Controller during Chaucer's Clerkship of the "Works
arc wanting. 2 The King's Chief Mason ; see No. 242

290 A.D. 1390. Seven payments to CHAUCER as Clerk of the Worlcs.

liberates, per assignaci'owem sibi facfom isto die, videlicet, per maims
Gautronis de Barde, super operibus pi'e&ictis, per brewe suuw de
liberate, inter mandata, vt supra [de hoc termino] ... xxvli. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo ad Scaccan'wm
Compotorum, Rotulo xiiij0, RoMo Compotorum.1

[Ibid., m. 8.]
§ Die Martis, sexto die Decembm.

GalfnVius \ Galfr^o Chaucer, Clerico operacionu??i Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palacium Westmonasterij, Turn??* Londom'e, et ad
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denam's sibi
liberate, per manus Roberti Gamulston', super officio suo, per brewe
suuw currens, vt supra ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compoto suo, vt supra.

§ Die Mercurz)', septimo die Decembm.

GalfnWus \ GalfhWo Chaucer, Clerico ope?'ac&'onura Domini Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciu??* Wesimonasterij, Tumm Londom'e, et ad

alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis, per duas t&llias

leuatos isto die, continentes xxvli. iij s. ixd., eidem Cle?ico liberate,

videlicet, per manus Henrz'a Yeueley vj li. xvij s. j d., et per manus

Roberti Gamulston' xviij li. vj s. viij d., super officio suo, per brewe de

liberate dicti Clerici, vt supra ... xxv li. iij s. ixd. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo, vt swpra.

[Ibid., m. 21.]
§ Die Jouis, xxiij0 die Fehr«ar$.

Galfr^us \ Galfr^o Chaucer, Cle?ico operacionu??i Do?;iini Regis

Chaucer. / infra Turrim London^'e et ad alia diuersa castra et

maneria Regis : In denam's per ips^m recept^s de pre-

dieto Joha7zne Hermesthorp' de medietate xve et xe et Subs^tfo}' p?*edic-

torum,2 super operibus cuiusdam Wharf de nouo repa?mat* iuxta

Turrim Londom'e, pro lanis ibidem ponderandi's, per brewe de liberate

d^c^i Cle?'ici, vt sup?'a ... ... ... ... Cxlli. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo, vt s

Eidem GalfMo, Clerico : In denaraVs per ipsum recepte's de
pre&icto Johawne Hermesthorp', videlicet, per manus Joha?inis
Brokeman ad duas vices xxx li., per manus cuiusdam cernentarz/ xx li.,
et per manus Johownis Crouch' xli., super reparaci'one domor^?^ de
nouo p?*ope eandem edificatarw?^ pro ponderac/one lanarm^, per
bre^e de priuato sigillo, inter mandate de hoc termino . . . Ix li. ; vnde
Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo, vt swj?ra.

1 See No. 237.

2 This refers to many other payments by John de Hermesthorp out of the
Fifteenth and Tenth and the Subsidy granted in the Parliament at Cambridge,
12 Ric. II.

Payments to c. o. Sul-Forester of North Petherton, Somerset. 291

[Ibid., ra. 23.]

§ Die Lune, xx° die Marcij.

GalfrvWus \ GalfrvWo Chauce?fe, Cle?*ico operaczonum Domini Regis

Chaucer. / infra Palaciu?^ Westmonasterij, Turow Londom'e, e£ ad

alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denams sibi

libe?*at£s, per manus proprias, super offic^o suo, pe?* brez^e suum de

liberate, vt supra, ... ... ... vj li. xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde

Respondebit. Et lespondet inde in compofo suo vt supra,.

[Ibid. , m. 24 ; same day. ]

Galfh'cZus \ GalfhV/o Chaucer, Clerico operac^onum "Domini Regis
Chaucer. / infra Palaciivw Westmonasterij, Tumm Londonz'e, et
alia diuersa castra et maneria Regis : In denam's per ipswm
receptos de Johawne He?Tiiesthorp', videh'cet, pe?' manus Hicardi Grille,
super operibus domoYum de nouo reprt?*andarw??? pro ponderacione
lanarwm iuxta Tum?^ pred«c^am ... xxxvij li. xiij s. iiij d. • vnde
Respondebit. Et respondet inde in compote suo, vt swpra.

224.

1390-1400.— Chaucer is Sub-Forester of the Forest of North
Petherton, under tlie Earl of March.

[Collinson's Somerset, III. 62 ; from " Park Rolls." Life- Records, III.,
117-123.] *

A list of Sub-Foresters of the Forest of North Petherton, with
the names of the Chief Foresters by whom they were appointed.
The first five entries in this list are : —

10 Bus. II. Eichard Brittle ... |b , appointment of the

14 „ Richard Brittle and r T? i r ivr v,

Gefferey Chaucer, esqrs. J Earl of March'

21 2 „ Gefferey Chaucer ... by Alianor Countess of

March.3

4 Hen. V. Thomas Chaucer ... by Edward Earl of March.
8 Hen. VI. William Wrothe and
Thomas Attemore

" These foresters of the family of Mortimer, as also the Dukes of
York, appointed substitutionary foresters, to whom (as it appears by
the Park Rolls 4) their whole power was delegated, as far as relates
to this part of North Petherton."

1 See also Mr. Selby's letter in the Athenaum, Nov. 20, 1886, p. 672.

2 Mr. Selby considered this must be an error for 22, on the ground that a
new appointment would not be required till the Earl's death ; and that another
appointment should have been made on Geoffrey's death.

3 In 1 Hen. IV. she is described as the wife of Sir Edward Charleton, who in
2 Hen. IV. is called Lord of Powys. — Ministers' Accounts, 972/28.

4 These rolls have not been discovered. Collinson gives further particulars
from them. There are very few Placita Forest*, Court Rolls, and Ministers'

292 CHAUCER let-off £20 stolen from him. His Deputy and Purveyor.

225.

1391, Jan. 6. — Writ discharging Chaucer, Cleric of the King' 's Works,
from the repayment of the £20 of which he had been robbed near
to the "fowle Ok" on 3rd Sept. 1390.

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Hilary, 14 Ric. II., Brevia, roll 20.
Life-Records, I. 12.] *

Pur Geffray \ RICHARD, par la grace de Dieu Roye etc., As Tresorer
Chaucer. / et Barons de nostre Escheqer, saluz. Suppliez nous ad
nosfre ame Clerc Geffray Chaucer, Clerc de noz
ouereignes, qicome 2 le tierce iour de Septembre darein passez le dit
Geffrey estoit robbez felonousement pres de le fowle Ok de vyngt
liures de nostr& tresor, et de son chival et autres moebles, par aucuns
notables larons, come plein[em]ent est confessez par bouche dun des
ditz larons, en presence de nosfre Coroner et autres noz officiers a
Wesmouster, en nostiQ Gaole illoeqes, a ce qest dit, nous plese lui
pardoner les dites vyngt liures, et lui descharger en son aconte a
nos£re Escheqer de les vyngt liures susdites ; la quele supplicacion
nous auons de nostre grace especial grantez et ottroiez. Et pur
ce vous mandons, que le dit Goffrey facez descharger en son aconte a
uostre dit Escheqer de les vyngt liures susdites, et ent estre quites
enuers nous par la cause auantdite. Done souz nostre priue seale, a
nostre Manoir de Eltham, le vj. iour de Januere, Ian de nostxe regne
quatorzisme.

226.

[1391, c. Jan. 20.]— Bill for a Commission to John Elmhurst, as
Deputy and Purveyor to Chaucer, Clerk of tJie Works, to take
materials and icorkmen for the Palace of Westminster and the
Tower of London.

[Warrants, Chancery, series I., file 1660.]

Soit faite co??imission' a Johan Elmhurst, come depute et
Purueyour de Geffrey Chauncer, Clerk' de les oeuereignes, pur
prendre pier, merisme, plumbe, tyles, shengule, et cariage pur ycelles,

Accounts at the Public Record Office relating to North Petherton, and none of
these mention Chaucer. In a printed paper Mr. Winslow Jones noted that on
26 August, 1420, Thomas Chaucer presented William Style to the perpetual
chantry in the manor of Newton Plecy, which manor is in the parish of North
Petherton, and is also called Newton Forester and Newton Wroth. Thomas
Chaucer was patron for that "turn." The presentation is recorded in Bishop
Bubwith's Register at Wells, f. 175.

1 This and many other documents were printed by Mr. Selby in the Life~
Records, under the title of " The Robberies of Chaucer," with an Introduction.
The locality of the Foul Oak is not stated. Mr. Selby did not express any
opinion as to the identity of this robbery with either of the robberies
mentioned in Nos. 231 seq. The date and sum here specified do not agree with
the confession of Richard Brerelay.

2 Sic, for " que come."

CHAUCER'S Deputy to press Men and Materials. 293

enserablement one toutz maneres ouercwrs et laboriers busoignables
pur les ouereignes nostre Sieur le Roy deinz la Paleys de Westm' et
la Tour de Londres.

(L. S.)
[The seal was a rather large one, but only a few fragments of wax remain.]

227.

1391, Jan. 22. — Appointment of John Elmhurst as Purveyor of the
Works at Westminster and the Tower, under Chaucer ; with
power to imprison all who refuse to serve the King in his Works.

[Patent Roll, 14 Ric. IT., p. 2, m. 34.1] '

De deputato 1 Rex,Vniuersis et singulis Vicecomitib^s, Maioribws,
Cleric! operaczo- >• Senescallis, Firmariis, Balliuis, Prepositis, Custodi-
num constitute. J lous, Ministris, et aliis ndelibws et subditis suis,
tarn infra libertates qwam extra, ad quos etc.,
salwtem. Sciatis, quod assignauinrws Johannem Elmhurst', quern
dilec^us seruiens nostei Galfr^us Chaucer, Clmcus operacionuw
nostrarum sub se deputauit, prouisorem earattdem operacionura, ad
Palacium nostrum Westmonasterij et Turrim nosfram Londonie
emendanda ; et ad latornos, carpentarios, et laboratores quoscumqwe,
qui pro operacionibm no^ris predictis necessarij fuerint, vbicumq^e
inueniri poterunt infra libertates et extra, feodo ecclesie dumtaxat
excepto, eligendos et capiendos, et in dz'c^is operaciombus nostris
ponendos ; ac eciam ad petram, maeremiu??^, tegulas, cindulas, et
omma alia necessaria pro operacionibus nostris predec^is, ac cariagium
pro eisdem petra, maeremio, tegulis, cindulis, et aliis necessariis ad
loca praKcte, pro denariis nosfris soluend/s, capienda et p?*ouidenda ;
et omnes illos, quos in hac parte cont?*arios inuene?-it seu rebelles,
arestandos et capiendos, et eos prisonis nosfris mancipandos, in eisdem
moraturos quousq?^ securitatem inuenerint de seruiendo nob^s in
oper&cionibus nos^ris, prout eis iniungetwr ex parte nostra,. Et ideo
vobis niandamws, qwod eidem Johanni tanqmm deputato ipsius
GalfrtV/i in premissis om?^ibus et singulis faciend^s et exequendz's
intendentes sitis, consulentes, respondentes, et auxiliantes, quociens
et prout per ipsum Johannem. super hiis ex parte nostfra fueritis
premuniti. In cui^s etc., quamdiu nobis plac^^erit duraturas. Teste
Re^e, apud Westmonasterium, xxij. die Januare)'.

Per billaw ipsius Galfr^i.2

228.

1391, Feb. 7. — Mandate to the Exchequer to allow to Chaucer, in his
account, the wages of Richard Swift, Master Carpenter and
" Dispositor " of the King's Works.

1 Not 24 as in Prof. Skeat's Life.

2 There is a similar patent appointing John Elmhurst as deputy to Chaucer's
successor, John Gedeneye, and dated 16th Sept. 1391, on Patent Roll, 15
Ric. II., p. 1, m. 24 (not 27, as in Prof. Skeat's Life).

294 CHAUCER attoivd the wages of Richard Sivift. Money paid to c.

[Exchequer Q. K. Memoranda Roll, Hilary, 14 Ric. II., Brevia, roll 24 d.]

Pro Galfndo \ Rex, Thesaurario et Baronibws suis de Scaccario,
Chaucer. / s&lutem. Cum primo die Januan)', anno regni
nostri [primo],1 constituerimus dilecfos (sic) nobz's
Hicarduw. Swyft et (sic) Mag^^ram Carpentarmm nostrum ac
dispositorem operacionwft nosframm tangenciiun artem seu misteram
Carpenta™}', qw&mdiu nobt# placuerit, percipiendo in officio illo
duodecim denarios per diem pro vadlis suis, videlicet, durantibws
operacionibws nostns, per manus Clerici earawdem operacionwra pro
tempore existentis, prout in hYeris nosfris patentibws inde confectis
plenius continetwr ; et mandauerimus GalfreWo Chaucer, Clerico
operacionum nostr&mm predictswum, quod eidem ~Ricardo id quod ei
aretro fuit de predictis duodecim denariis diurnis a predicto primo die
Januan)' pro vadiis suis solueret, iuxta tenorem h'ferarwm nostrsnum
pre&ict&Tum ; idemqwe Galfr^us eidem T&icardo diue?-sas pecuniarw??^
su?7imas virtute mandati nos^ri predicti pro vadiis suis soluerit, p?*out
per h'feras acquietancie ipsius Ricar^i, quas idem Galfm?us penes se
ha6et, vt asserit, plenius poterit apparere : Vob^s mandamus, q?wd,
viso mandate nostro predicto, id quod vobis constare poterit prefatum
Galfr^um eidem Ricar^o virtute mandati nos^ri predict raaona-
biliter soluisse, eidem Galfrtdo in compoto suo coram vobis ad
Scaccarium predictum allocetis, recipientes a prefato GalfnWo l?'^eras
acquietancie sup?*adz'c£as. Teste me ipso, apud Wesbmonasterium,
vij. die Februar^/, anno legni nostri quartodecimo.

229.

1391, Feb. 23. — Loan by the Exchequer to Richard Gille, merchant
of London, of 5331. 2s., part of which, £114, he repaid to
Chaucer on 6th April.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 14 Ric. II., m. 22.]
§ Die Jouis, xxiij0 die February.

Ricardus \ Riccmfo Gille, Ciui et Mercatori London ie : In denam's
Gille. / per ipsum receptzs de Johcwne Hermesthorp', vno Camer-
ariorum de Smccario, de prestito, ad restituend?^

Dxxxiij li. ij s. ; vnde

Respondebit. Inde restitwtf xx° die Marcij proximo sequente xxxvij
li. xiij s. iiij d. Item, xvj° die Decembm, a?mo xv°, C li. Item,
quarto die Marcij, eodem anno xv°, xxli. Item, secundo die Aprilis,
anno xv° p?*aU'c^o, Cliij li. xij s. iij d. Item, vjto die Aprilis, anno
xiiij0, per maims GalfrM Chaucere, Cxiiij li.2

230.
1391, April 6. — Moneys assigned to Chaucer as Clerk of the Works;

1 Year omitted here ; see No. 242, § 9.
-*• See No. 230. For other entries of this date, see No. 223.

1391. Payments to c. Rollers of CHAUCER on 6 Sept. 1390. 295

and entry of a loan ly him of 66Z. 13s. 4d. to the Exchequer, for
which he received a tally.

[Receipt Roll, Easter, 14 Ric. II.]
§ Die Jouis, sexto die Aprilis.

London'. — De Gilbe?*to Magh'feld' et Hugone Sprot, Colleetoribus
Siibsidij iij s. de dolio et xij d. de libra in Portu London', xxix li.
xviij d., de eodem Snbsuftd.

Surr', Sussex'. — De Roberto Echyngliam, Vicecomite, Ixxj s. x d.,
de exitibus balliue sue.

[Lincoln'. — ~De Willeftno de Thorp', Milite, Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d.,
de n'rma Foreste de Rokyngham, inter pontes Oxon' et Stanford'.] l

Prestituw restitutu??z. — De Ricardo Gille, per manus G&lfridi
Chaucere, Cxiiij li., in partem solucioms Dxxxiij li. ij s. sibi
Iiberat0rw?ft, de prestito, xxiij0 die February/, anno xiiij0.2

[These four entries are bracketed, and the following words are written
opposite to them, showing that they were/' assigned " to Chaucer on 6th April :]

Pro Galfh'do Chaucere, super officio suo.

[Then, after an irrelevant entry, occurs :]

Mutuum. — De Galfn'do Chaucere, Clerico operacionum Domini
Regis, Ixvj s. xiij s. iiij d., de mutuo, per talliam, in tercia linea
superiws cancellafam.3

[Note to the last entry, in another hand :]
Persoluuntur xxijdo die Maij, anno xvj° Regz's llicardi secundi.

231.

1391, April 12. — Enrolment of the Indictment in the King's Bench
of Richard Brerelay and ofliers, for the rollery of Chaucer at
Westminster on Qth Sept. 1390 ; and commitment of Brerelay.
With him, Thomas Cotyngham was indicted for breaking into
houses in Holborn, but he escaped, and the Marshal was fined
100s.
[Coram Rege Roll, Easter, 14 Ric. II., Rex, roll 1. Life-Records, I. 15.]

Midd'. — § Juiatores diuersorzm Hundrecforwm Comitatus pred^cft
alias, scih'cet, termiwo Sancti Hillarz)', anno regni 'Regis nunc quarto-
deci??io, coram Dow/no Rege, apud Westmo?? aster ium, presentauerunt,
quod Rica?*dus Brerelay, simul cum aliis ignotw, die Martis proximo
ante iestum N&tiuitatis Beate Marie Virgwis,4 anno legni ~Regis nunc
quartodeci??io, felonice depredauit GalfnWwm Chauser de decem libm
in pecunia numerate apud Westmonasterium, et quod, est communis
et notorius latro. Et qwod Thomas Cotyngham, simul cum aliis, die

1 This entry is struck out. 2 See No. 229.

8 This refers to the cancelled entry, under the head of "Lincoln" ; so it
appears that this particular sum was not assigned to Chaucer, but borrowed from
him. ^ 6 Sept. 1390.

296 1391. Indictment of the Robbers of CHAUCER on 6 Sept. 1390.

Jouis, in vigilia Sanctc Katerine Virginia, anno supradz'cfo,1 domos
Rogeri apud le Kage in Holbourne ex^ra barram felonice noctanter
fregt'l, et vnum equm Willelmi Norton', armigeri, precij quatuor
marcarum. et duos equos Johararais de Grendon', precij centu??i
solidorum, ibidem existentes, felonice fumtus fuit, et quod est com-
munis latro. Per quod, Preceptum fuit ~Vicecomiti, quod non omito'et
etc. quin caperet eos, si etc. Et modo, scih'cet, die Jouis proximo
post quindenam Pasche,2 isto eodem termino, coram Domino Rege,
apud Westmonasterium, veniunt predicti Ricardus et Thomas, per
balh'emm libertatis Ab&atis Westmonasterij de Wssimonasterio,
virtute brewis sibi inde directs, ducte, qui committuntwr Mziescallo.
Et statim per WLaiescallum dncti veuiunt, et allocuti sunt separatim,
qualiter de felonia predicts se velint acquietare ; dicunt separatim,
qwod ipsi in nullo sunt inde culpabiles, et de hoc ponunt se super
pafriam. Ideo venial inde Jurafa coram Domino Rege, apud
Westmonasterium, die Veneris tune proximo seqwenfe; etqui etc., ad
ncognoscendum etc. Et super hoc predict! Ricar6?us et Thomas
etc.

[Controlment Roll, Easter, 14 Hie. II., roll 26.] 3

Ad quern diem nullum loreue • in Octabis M.[chaelis ; in Octabis
Hill an?' ; in xv. Pasche. Ad q^e??i diem coram Domino Rege vem'£
Kobertus Parys, nuper Maresca/Zws Domini Rege's, coram ipso Rege, et
cogn0tf&, quod pred^cfus Thomas a custodm sua euasit. Ideo idem
Robe?-tus in misericordia,, et a&orotur per Justiciaries ad C.s. ; prout
pate^ per rotwlw??i Einium, iermino Hillar«)', &nno xv., et quod idem
Robertus de corpore predicti Thome exoneretwr. Ideo v&piatur,
Octabis Trinitatis. Postea, in Octabis M.ichaelis. Ad quern diem,
&nno xviij0, nullum brewe; contra, diem Lune proximum post tres
septimanos Sancti Michaelis. Ad quern die??i brewe, exigatur ; Octabis
Trinitatis, rotulo xvij. Ad quern die?ft Vicecomes retornaw^, q^od
die Jouis proximo post festum Sancti AnibTC^)* Epwcopi,4 anno xviij0,
p?-ed&'c£us Thomas utlagabatur, prout pate^ per bre&ia Regw tenni?io
Trinita^'s, &nno xviij0.

232.

1391, April 16. — Record setting out the confession of Richard Brerelay
of having robbed Chaucer at Westminster of £10. He became
approver •, and appealed other persons of having with himself
robbed Chaucer at Hatcham of 9Z. 3s. 8d., and of numerous
other felonies.

[Controlment Roll, Queen's Bench, Easter, 14 Ric. II., roll 22 d. Life-
Records, I. 19.]

1 24 Nov. 1390. 2 21 April, 1391.

3 This contains a repetition of the foregoing entry, with the following addition.

* 8 April, 1395.

1391. Confession of Richard Brerelay, the Roller of CHAUCER. 297

Midd'. — § RicartZus Brerelay, qui in custodm JSsxescaXli Domini
Rege's, coram ipso Rege, certis de causis com???issus fuit, vemY coisun
JLdmundo Brudenell', Coronatore ip.sius Reg^'s, coram ipso Rege, die
Sab&ati proximo post quindenam Pasche, anno regni Regis "Ricardi
secwzdi post Conqwestai quartodeci?«o, [et] ex spontanea voluntate
sua cognouit se esse felonem Domini Reg/s, de eo quod ipse die Martis
proximo ante iestum N&tiiutatis Beate Marie Virgmis, anno regni
predicti Regzs supradacfo, felonice dep?'edauit GalfnWwm Chauser de
decem libra's in pecunia numerata apud Westmonasterium, et quod est
comrmmis et notorius latro ; et deuenit p^'obator, et appellatf Thomawz,
Talbot de Hibemz'a, alias dictum Brode, Gilbertwm, clericwm ipsius

placitcniit.

Thome, et WiUelmum Hnntyngfeld', de eo qwod ipsi, simul cum
prefato p?-obatore, apud Hacchesham, in Coniitatu Surre^'e, die Martis
proximo ante festuni Natiuitatis Beate Marie Virg^ms, anno suprc^-
d^c^o, felonice dep?'edauerw^ p?-efatu??i Qfolfridifm. Chauser de ix. li.
et xliij. d.,1 vnde quili&et eontm hafoiit pro parte sua iiij m«rcas
v. s. x. d.

[Here follow particulars of other robberies from other persona.] 3
Et quesitttwi est a p?'efato p?'obatore per prediction Coronaforem,
si ipse vlterius appellare velit; dicit, quod non etc. Quesitw??^ est
eciam a prefato probatore per prgfatccm Corona#ore?^, si ipse aliqua
terras seu tenementa, bona et catalla ha&eat, necne ; dicit, qwod nulla
babet terras seu tcnementa, set dicit quod ipse tempore quo ipse
fuit pn'sone Abba^is We&tmonasterij de Westmonasterio,
bona et catalla, -videlicet : vj. marcas ix. s. ij. d. in pecunia
numerata, duos equos precij iij li., vnu??^ gl&dium et vnum cultell?/?^
vocatum dagger precij ij. marcarum, vnam armilausam precij dimidie
niarce, et que deuenerw;^ ad manus predict. Abbafis, vnde Domino
Regi responswrws est etc. Per Baga?« de Secret's de isto eode??i
anno. Per quod preceptu?n est 'Vicecomiti, quod non omittatf etc.
quin capz'a^,3 si etc., in Octabis Tr'mitatis. * * * ~Ut\agantur,
[prout] pate£ per brewia supradtc^a.

233.

1391, April 20. — Payment to Chaucer as Clerk of the Works.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 14 Eic. II., m. 2.]

§ Die Jouis, xx° die Aprilis.

GalfrwZus \ GalfnVZo Chaucere, Clerico operact'onmtt Domini Rege'.s

Chaucere. / infra Palacium Westmowa^en/, Tumm London?'e, et ad

alia diuersa castra et maneria Regts : In denariis sibi

1 Sic; it should be 44d. ; see No. 235.

2 These are fully set out in Life-Records, I. pp. 19 — 22, and pp. 23 — 27.

3 Namely, Thomas Talbot and Gilbert his clerk. William Huntyngfeld
appeared. The Irishman and his clerk were not found, and therefore were
outlawed.

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 20

298 Grimes of William Hunt i/iigf eld, who robbed CHAUCER.

liberate, per maims propn'as, super officiosuo'... Ixvj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondent. Et vespondet inde in compoto suo, vt supra.

234.

1391, May 31 — June 22. — Enrolment of the Indictment of William
Huntyngfeld for robbing Chaucer at Westminster, and for
breaking into houses at Holborn ; with his conviction. The
approver Brerelay ivas hanged [for another offence].
[Coram Rege Roll, Trinity, 14 Ric. II., Rex, roll 18. Life-Kecords, I. 28.]

Midd'. — § Juratores diuersorum Hundredorum Comitatus predict!
alias, scilicet, termino Sancti Hillarz/, anno Yegni ~Regis nunc quarto-
deci?fto, coram Domino Rege, apud Westmonasterium, presQntauerunt,
quod WilleZnms Huntyngfeld', cum aim ignotis, die Martis proximo
ante festum Nukiuitatis Beate Marie VirgzMis, anno legni ^Regis
Rica?*<ii secundi post Conquestiim quartodeci??io, felonice depredauit
GalfnVZwm Chauser do decem libm in pecunia nume?*ata apud
W&simonasterium, et quod est communis ei notowws latro. Et quod,
predictus WilleZm?^s Huntyngfeld' et ah)', die Jouis, in vigilia SanctQ
Katmne Virgmis, anno legni ~Regis RicarJi seaundi quartodecimo,
domos Rogeri apud le Kage in Holbo?/rne extra barram felonice
noctanter fregit, et vnu??i equm Wille/?«i Norton', armige?*i, previj
quatuor inarcarwm, et duos equos Joha^ms de Grendon', precij
centum solidorzm, ibidem existentes, felonice furatz^s fuit, et quod
est communis latro. Per quod, Preceptum fuit Nivecomiti, quod non
omitte?'e^ etc. quin caperet eum, si etc. ' Et modo, scik'ce^, die Sab&ati
proximo post festum Sancti Barnabe Apostoli,1 isto eodem te?*mino,
corara Domino Rege, apud Westmonasterium, vemY predic^us
WilleZmws, in custod^'a M.a,Tescalli Domiui 'Regis, qui ak'as in custodza
sua co?^missus fuit, ductws, et allocutws est, qualiter de felont'a
predicta se velit acquietare [eo quod predlctus p?*obator iam suspenses
est] ; 2 dicit quod ipse in nullo est inde culpabilis, et de hoc pomY se
super pafriam. Ideo vem'a£ inde Jura^a coram Domino Rege, apud
Westmonasterium, die Martis proximo ante iestum Sancti. Sohannis
Bap^te,3 et qui etc., ad Tecognoscendum etc. Et super hoc predicts
WilleZmws interim co??zmittitur MarescaZfo etc. Ad que??i diem coram
Domino Rege, apud Westmcwasfen'wra, vemY predtc^us WilleZmz^s in
custodi'a Mswescalli. Et Vicecomes retornamY nomina, Juratorum,
quorum nullws etc. Ideo Jurata predicts, ponitm* in respecfwm coram
Domino Rege, usqwe diem Martis tune proximo sequentem. Et super

1 17 June, 1391.

2 Usually an approver was pardoned on conviction of the person accused by
him ; but Brerelay had also appealed Adam Clerk, of Ireland, servant of Thomas
Talbot, of a robbery at Berkweywey, in Herts, and Clerk offered the wager of
battle. A duel was therefore stricken and fought between them at Tothill, on
3rd May, 1391, when the approver was vanquished, and consequently hanged. —
Mr. Selby's Bobberies of Chaucer, pp. 9, 25 — 28. The dress and weapons used in
such duels are described in Harrod's Colchester Records, p. 30. 3 20 June, 1391.

Rich. Brerelay accuses Wm. Hunt yngfeld of rolling CHAUCER. 299

hoc precU'clus Willelmus interim committitwr MarescaZZo. Ad quern
diem coram Domino Rege, apud "W Qstmonasterium, vemY predicts
WilleZnms Huntyngfeld' in custod/a M.3,iescalli ; et simiUYer Juratores
VQniunt, qui, ad hoc electi, triati, et jurafo', d.icunt, super sacmmentum
suwft, qwod pred/c^us WilleZnms culpabik's est de feloims predicts.1

[Controlment Roll, Trinity, 14 Ric. II., roll 33.]

Ad quern die??i clericus conuictzjs,2 qui conmittitwr MarescaZZo ; in
Octabis Michaelis ; in Octabis Hillan)' ; in xv. Pasc/ie ; in Octabis
Tnnitatis.

235.

1391, May 31 — June 22. — Richard Brerelay appeals William
Huntyngfeld for tlie robbery of Chaucer at Hatcham, but
Huntyngfeld pleads not guilty.
[Coram Rege Roll, Trinity, 14 Ric. II., Rex, roll 18. Life Records, I. 30.]

Surm'a. — § RicarcZus Brerelay, qui in custod^a MarescaZZi Domini
Regz's, ah'as, certis de causis com?ftissus fuit, ven^ cora?w Edmwn^o
Erudenell', Corona^ore ipsius Regi-5, coram ipso Rege, et cognouit
se esse felone??* ipsius Regt's, et appellat WilleZmwm Huntyngfeld',
de eo qwod ipse simul cu.m prefato probatore, apud Hacchesham,
in Comitatu Surrei'e, die Martis proximo ante festum N&tiuitatis
Beate Marie Virg^iis, anno re^i Re^'s RicarcZi secwradi post Con.
questum quartodeci??io, felonice depredauerzwzif Qalfxidum Chauser
de noue??fc libris et xliiij d. ; 3 vnde quilibet GOYum ha&uit pro parte
sua iiij niarcas vs. x d. Per quod, ~Preceptum fuit Yiceco??w7t, quod
non omitteretf etc. quin caperet eum si etc. Et modo, sciZicet,
die Sab&ati proximo post festum Sancti Barnabe Aposfoli,4 isto
eodem termmo, cora??i Domino Rege, apud Westmowa^ermm, venit
predzc^us WilleZmws, in custodm MarescaZZi, qui alias in custodea
sua commissus fuit, ductws, et quia predicts probator iam suspensus
est, predicts Willelmus allocutws est, qualiter de felonm p?*edicta
se velit acquietare ; dicit, qwod ipse in nullo est inde eulpabilis, et de
hoc pon/£ se super pa^riam. Ideo vema£ inde Jura^a coram Do??wno
Rege in Octabiis Sancti MichaeZis, vbicumqwe etc., et qui etc., ad
recognosce??cZww etc. Et sup^r hoc predictfus WilleZmifs interim com-
mittitwr MarescaZZo etc.

1 The Controlment Roll has a duplicate entry as far as here, with tho
addition of the words bracketed above ; then it proceeds as below.

2 This implies that he was allowed the "benefit of clergy," but not that he
was in orders. Every one who could read enjoyed that privilege, after 25 Edw.
III. — Jacob's Law Dictionary. Huntyngfeld, with others, broke out of the
King's Bench prison at Southwark, at midnight on Wednesday, 2nd Aug. 1391,
but was recaptured, and charged with this escape. Mr. Selby could not discover
what finally happened to him, but presumed he was hanged. His first offence,
however, was evidently not " ousted of clergy," or he would have been executed
promptly on conviction, and his escape, though a felony, was less heinous. It
is probable that he was kept in prison for some time, as usual in such cases,
and at length discharged. — Bobberies, as above, pp. 11, 35, 36.

3 Sic; xliij d. before. * 17 June, 1391.

300 CHAUCER to give up his Clerkship of the Works to John Gedwy.

[Controlment Roll, Trinity, 14 Ric. II., roll 29. Cancelled.]
Ad quern diem panellum ; in Qckabis Hill^n-/ ; in xv. Pasc/^e ; in
Qrtabis '^i

236.

1391, June 17. — Writ commanding Chaucer to deliver to John
Gedney the office of Clerk of the Works, with the rolls, writs,
memoranda, and other things belonging thereto.

[Exchequer Q. R. Accounts, etc., Works, -5rV- Archceologia, xxxiv. 45. 2]

RICARDUS, Dei grac^'a Eex AngHe et France et Dommus Hiberm'e,
dilecfo sibi GalfnVZo Chaucer, nuper Clerico oper&cionum nostY&mm,
s&lutem. Cum consiituerimus et assignaue?*inms Johawzem Gedney
Clericum oper&ciouwn nostr&Twn apud Palaciwra nostxum Westmonas-
terij, Turrim nosfaam Londom'e, Castra nostra de Wallyngford' et
Berkhampstede, Maneria nos^ra de Kenyngton', Eltham, Clarendon',
Scliene, Byflete, Childernelangeley, et Feckenham, necnon logiam
no^ram de Hathebergh', in foresta nostra, de Nona, Foresta, ac logias
nosfras infra parcos nosfros de Claryndon', Eltham, Childernelangley,
et Fekenham, et mutas no^^ras pro falconib^ noon's juxta Charrynge-
erouch', necnon gardinonwi, stagnoium, molendinorw??^, ac clausuraraw
tam parcorw??i predictoium qwam omnium aliora??i parcorw???, ad eadem
Palaciu??z, Turrim, Castra, Maneria, logias, et mutas pertinencia (sic), et
ad latomos, carpentarios, et alios operarios et laboratores quoscumqwe,
qui operacionibus nos^ris pred^cfis necessarij fuerint, vbicumqwe inue-
niri poterunt infra libertates et extra, feodo ecclesie dumtaxat excepto,
per se et deputatos suos eligendos et capiendo^, et in dzc^is operaczoni-
\>us nos^ris ponendos, in eisdem ad vadia nosfca, moraturos, et ad quedam
alia in U7eris nos^ris patentibws inde confectis contenta facienda
et explenda, prout in eisdem literis plenius continetwr : tibi p?*ecipim.^5,
qwod eidem Johmzwi officium predic^m, vna cum rotulis, "bieuibus,
memorandis, et onmib^ aliis officiu?^ predictum tangentibws, que in
custodia tua existunt, per indenturas inde inter te et ipsum debite
conficiendas, liberes, ha&endwra iuxta tenorem liteiaxum nostiaium
predicteuum, te de officio illo nullatenus intromittens ; volumes enim
te inde erga nos exonerari. Teste me ipso, apud Wsstmonasterium,
xvij. die Junij, anno iegni nostri quartodecimo.

Burton'.

237.

1391, June 17. — Chaucer's account, as Clerk of the Works at West
minster, the Tower, ^c., from 12th July 1389 to this date.

[Foreign Accounts, 14 Ric. II., forula C.]

1 There appear to be no further proceedings against Huntyngfeld on this
charge, probably because he had been convicted on the other.

2 In a paper by the Rev. Joseph Hunter.

CHAUCER'S Account, as Clerk of the Works, 1389—1391. 301

REC£P77S ET EXPENSJS CIRCA OP£fiACIOJVES REGIS APUD PALACIUM
"WESTMOJWSTE*//, TURRIM LONDONJJ?, ET ALIA DIUE.RSA CASTRA

ET MANAMA REGIS, A xu° DIE JULJ/, ANNO xiu°, VSQUE xvu.

DIEM JUNJ/, ANNO XIIIJ0.

PER GALFRiDi'M CHAUNCEB.

KANOIA. — COMPOTVS GalfhWi Chauncer, quom Rex per 1/feras

suas patentes dat#s xij° die Juh)', anno xiij0,1 iTiotulatas in Qrigmalibus
de eodem anno, constituit et assignauit Clancum operacionum Regis
apud Palacium Regis Westmcwas^eri/, Turrim Londonie, Castrum de
Berkhampstede, Mane?'ia Regis de Kenyngton', Eltham, Claryngdon',
Shene, Byflete, Childrelangley, Fekenham, necnon logeam "Regis de
Hathebergh' in Noua Foresta, ac logeas Regis infra parcos suos de
Claryngdon', Eltham, Childrelangley, et Fekenham, ac mutas Regis
pro falconibws suis iuxta Charryngcrouche, necnon gardina, stagua,
molendina, et clausulas tarn parcoium predictoium qwam omnium
alioram parcoium ad eadem Palacmm, Turrim, Castrwn, Mane?*ia,
logeas, et mutas pertinencia^ et ad lathanios, carpentarios, et alios
ope?*arios e^ laboratores quoscunque, qui operacio;iib^5 Regis prede'c^is
necessarij fue?int, vbicu?iqwe inueniri pote/int (sie) infra libe?*tates et
extra, feodo ecclesie dumtaxat excepto, per se et deputatos suos
eligendos et capiendos, et in diesis operacionibus R-egis- ponendo^ sup^r
eisdem operac^orabws Reg^y ad vadia Regis moraturos, ac ecia??i ad
petras, maeremium, tegulas, cindulas, vitru??z, ferru?^, plumbum, et
orcwia alia necessaria pro opersicionibus Reg/s predictis, ac cariagio (sic)
pro eisdem petris, maeremio, tegulis, cindulis, vitro, ferro, pluwbo, et
alijs neccessarijs ad loca p?*ed/c^a, pro denarijs Regz's per ipswai
Ctalfridum soluendw, per se et deputatos suos capienda et prouidenda,
necnon ad quascunqz^e soluciowes tarn pro vadijs dictorum opersrioium
qiiam pro ewpcionibus, prouidencijs, et cariagijs, et alijs misis et ex-
pens^ quibuscunqwe dzc^as operacz'orces qualitercunque tangentibws, per
visum et testi??io??mm Contr«rotwlatoris Regw earw^dem operaciomwi
pro tempore existentis, faciendas, et ad computandu?>i de denarijs
quos super expenses operacionu??i predictarum percipiet per visum et
testi??^oni^w?^ predict Contrarotwlatoris, et ad ramos, corticem, et alia
residua de arboribws pro diesis oper&cionibus p?*ouisis ad opus Regis,
per visum et testi??zom'wm dictfi Cont?*arotwlatoris, vendend«, et Regi
de denams inde prouenientibws respondendw?ft, percipiendo. pro vadiis
suis in officio predict ij s. per diem ; videlicet, tarn de Teceptis, misis,
et expense's pe?* ipswm Qr&lfridum factis super operaciowibws predicts,
qwam de stauro mortuo et alijs mimitis neccessarijs dic^as ope?'acio?&es
tangentib^ a predict xij° die Juli/, anno xiij°, ante quern diem
Rogerus Elmhani inde computauit Ro^wZo xj°, ~Rotulo Compo^orwm,
vsqwe xvijm diem Juni/, anno xiiij0, per visu??i et tvstimonium
WilleZ??a Hannay, Contrarotwlatoris dicfarw??^ operacionu??^ Regis
ibidem, quo die Rex per brewe simm de iiiagno sigillo precepit dic^o

1 No. 209;

302 CHAUCER'S Account, as Clerk of the Works, 1389—1391.

GalfrirZo,1 quod Johanni Gedney, quern Rex constituit et assignauit
Clericwn dicturum operacionwn Regis apud Palaciu??i Westmonasterijr
Turrim Londom'e, Castra Regis de Walyngford' et Berkehampstede,
Maner/a Regis de Kenyngton', Eltham, ef alia maneria et loca
supradic^a, officiu??i pred/c/wm, vnacwft omnibus alijs officill??^ illud
tangentibws, per indenturam liberet, et quod se de officio illo vlteriu»
nullatenus intromittat ; a quo quidem xvij° die Juni/, anno xiiij0,
idem Joh«?mes est inde computaturus.

Recepta Scaccarij. — Idem Teddit compotum de CC li. receptis de
Thosaurario et Camerariis ad 'Receptam Scaccarij, termino Pasche,
anno xij°, super operibus predicts, in duabws particwlis, videlicet,
xiiij0 die JuhJ— xx li. , et xxijdo die JuhJ — Ciiij** li., sicut coniinetur in
pelle 'M.emomndorum2 ad eandem Receptam de eisdem ierna.no et annor
eft eciam in quodam Rotwlo de particwlis hie in Thesauro liberate. Et
de CCiiijxx xvli. xvijs. iiij d. recepto's de eisdem Thesaurario et
Camerams ad ~Receptam predtctfam, termino Mich«e?is, anno xiij*
super operibws predicts, in vij particwlis, videlicet, vij° die Octobrzs — •
Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d., xxiij0 die Nouembr^ — 1 li., primo die Decembris —
vij li. ij s., xiiij0 die Decembris — C li., xxiiijto die Decembris — Cviij s.
viijd,, tercio die Marc# — Iiij li. vj s. viij d., et iiijto die Marci)' —
xiij li. vj s. viij d. , sicut continetur in pelle Wemomndorum 3 ad
eandem ~Receptam de eisdem termi?zo et anno, et eciam in predi'cfo
ftotulo de partic?/lis. Et de Ciiijxx xv li. xv s. iiij d. recepto's de eisdem
Thesaurario et Camerarm ad Receptam prechc^am, te?*mino Pasche^
anno xiij0, super operibws p?-edi'c^is, in vj particwlis, videlicet, iiijfc0i
die Turn)' — x li., xv° die JumJ — C li., xvij° die JunzJ — iiij li. xiij s.
iiij d., xxvto die Jum/ — xxli., ix° die July — xxli., xix° die Jul?)'—
xlj li. ij s. , sicut contiwefor in pelle 'Mernorandorum ad eandem
Receptam de eisdem termi?zo et anno, et eciam in quodam "Rotulo de
parti cwlis. Et de CCCjli. iij s. ixd. receptis de eisdem Thesaurario
et Camerarm ad Recepfaw predictam, tenmno MichaeZis, anno xiiij0,
super ope?ibus predicts, in vj particwlis, scihVet, xxvij0" die Octobm —
xxvli., vj*° die Decem&ris — vjli. xiij s. iiij d., vija die Decembris —
xxv li. iij s. ix d., xxiij* die FebrwanJ, in ij pa?*ticwlis — CCli., et xx°"
die Marc*)' in duabws particwlis — xliiij li. vj s. viij d., sicut continetor
in pelle Iblemorandorum ad eandem Receptam de eisdem termiwo et
anno, et eciam in predict Rotulo de particwlis. Et de CCxvj li.
xiij s. iiij d. leceptis de eisdem Thesaurario et Came?*am's ad 'Receptam
predictam, te?*mi?zo Pasche, anno xiiij0, super ope?*ibws predicts, d,
duabw^ particwlis, videlicet, vjto die Aprilis — CCxiij li. vj s. viij in
et xx° die Aprilis — Ixvj s. viij d. , sicut contirce^r in pelle Memorarc-
dorum ad eandem Recej9^«m de eisdem termi?io et anno, et eciam
in predicto 'Rotulo de particwlis.

Summa ~Recepte Scaccarij — MCCix li. ix s. ix d.
Recepfa forinseca. — Idem leddit compotum de xvij s. iiij d. loz&ptis
1 See No. 236. 2 This means the Issue Eolls ; see No. 213. 3 See No. 214.

CHAUCER'S Account, as CUrk of tlte Works, 1389—1391. 303

.de croppis Ciiijor quercmm per tempestate??z venti prostrata?*w?>& in
pa?'co Regw de Eltham, anno xiij°, sic vendte, sicut continetur in
predicto Rotulo ipsius Galfr/Ji, et eciam in Rotulo p?*edic£i Cont?*a-
rotulatoris de particwlis hie in Thesauro liberate.

Summa Receptorum foiinsQcorum — xvij s. iiij d.
Summa Receptorum coniuncta — M^Cx li. vij s. j d.

Expense. — Idem computed in petm, calce, tegulis, plastro,
maeremio, bordz's, latlu's, ferro, serur/s cum clauibws, vertiuelhV,
gumphis, clauis, vitro, plumbo, soudur', carbonibws, garnettz's, cinduh's,
et alijs minntis neccessarijs pro oper&eionibus predictis empt/s et
expendit?'s, vna cwn cariagio earwwdej^ rerww de diue?'sis locis vbi
empte fue7'?mt et prouise vsqwe Palaciu??* Westwonasteri/, Turrini
Londome, Castrn??i de Berkehampstede, et vsque Maneria de Langleo,
Claryngdon', Eltham, Kenyngton', Shene, et ad alia maneria suprad/cfa,
necnon \a,dijs et stipendtj's cementan'0rw?i, carpentartorw??i, plum-
\)suriorum, tegulatorw??i, cindulator^w, vitna.riorum, sarratorw?^,
plastratorw??i, doubator^w?^, fossatoram, et silioium diuersoium
oper&norum pro oper&cionibus p?*edi'c^is conductorwm per dme?-sas
vices infra dictum tempus huiws compoifi — DCCCCxxiij li. iiij s.
ij d. qa, videlicet, cuih'^et cementanorw??^, carpentartorw??i, plum-
\)aiiontm, plastrariorw^w, sarratorw?7i, cindulatorz^m, et tegulatorw?*
vj d. per diem, et cuih'6et viiri&riorum xij d. per diem, cuih'&et dou-
batorw?/i v d. per diem, et cuih'&et fossatorzm et alior«;?i ope?<ariorwm
et laborariorww iiij d. pe^* diem, per predictum brewe Regis patens
annotates sup?4a in titulo huiws compo^i, et per aliud brei^e Reg/s de
prt'uato sigillo, datww p?*imo die Junt/, anno xiiij0, Thesaz^rar^o et
Baronib?«« huius Scaccarij direct??!, quod est inter Commuma, de
ter??ii7io Trinitatts, eodem anno ; per quod brewe Rex mandauit eisdem
Thesaurario et Baronibws, qwod in compose que??i GalfrtYZus Chauncer,
Clericus ope?'aczonu??z Regis, est redditurus coram prefatis Thesaw-
rario et Baronibws in di'c^o Scaccario Regis, officiu?;i dicti Clerici
tangente, sibi allocari faciant pro artificib^s et laborarus quos idem.
Clericus h«ouit in diesis operacionib?is Rege's, pro tempore quo extitit
in d^ctfo officio, talia vadia et per modum quo extiterunt allocata in
casu consi??iili ante hec tempora alijs Clericis dictamm operacionuwt
Regis qut in eode??i officio ante ipsum GalfrtWwm vltimo extiterunt,
sicut contme^r in p?*edzcifis Rotulo et Coiitrarotulo de particulis, et
sicut \miusmodi vadia allocantwr prefato Roge?*o Elmham, Clerico
dictaYum operacionu?>i Reg^'s, i?wmediate ante predic^wm GalfnWwm,
prede'c^o Rotulo xj°, Rotulo Compotoium. Et in vadijs predicti
GalfhYZi Chauncer, CZerici earw/idem operacionu?^ Reg/s, a predicto
xij° die Juhy, anno xiij°, vsqwe p?-edic^an xvijm diem Juiu)', anno
xiiij0, scih'cet, per DCCvj dies, vtroqwe die computato, Ixx li. xij s.,
capiente per diem ij s., per pred^c£wm brewe Reg^'s patens datom xij°
die Juh)', anno xiij°, annotat?«m supr« in titulo huius compoft, sicut
continetur ib^?em. Et in vadijs WilleJwa Hannay, Contmrot?datom

304 CHAUCER'S Account, as Clerk of the Works, 1389 — 1391.

earawdem operacionu???, Regis, per idem tempus, xxxv li. vj s,,
capientis per diem xij d., per brez^e Regis de magno sigillo datum
xvj° die Fobiuarij, anno xiij°, super hunc compotum liberatum, et per
duas k'feras acquietancie ipsius WiUelmi de recepcione, sicut coiitinetur
ibidem. Et in vadijs Iticardi Swyft, Magisfri Carpentarz}' Regis
ibide?u, percipienti[s] xij d. per diem a predicfo xij° die Juli/, anno
terciodecimo, vsqwe xijm diem JuhJ proximo sequenteni, scilicet, per
vnum annw?/i integrura, xviij li. vs., pe?* brewe Regis de magno
sigillo datwm xiiij01 die "Fobmarij, anno xiiij0, prefato Galfrido inde
direcfam, in quo quidem brewi continetur, quod, cu??i Rex primo
die January, anno primo, constituent prefatum RicanZwm Swyft
Magis/rwm Carpentaria??! suu??^, ac dispositorem ope?-acionu?ft suarz^m
tangencmm artem seu misteram carpentari;', qwamdiu Regi placuerit,
pe?*cipiendo in officio illo xij d. per diem pro vad?ys suis, per manus
dic^i Galfr/^i, Clerici ope?'acionu??i Regis ; per quod brewe Rex
mandauit prefato Galfr/e?o, quod eidem Ric«rc?o id quod ei aretro
est de predicts xij d. diurnis a predicfo p?'imo die Januari; pro
vadijs suis soluat, recipiendo a p?'efato Ricar^o hYeras suas
acquietaciom's, que pro Rege sufficientes fuerint in hac parte, et
per h'feras acquietancie ipsius RicarrZi de rece^ciowe, sicut contirze^wr
ib/^em. Et in vadijs Magis^ri Henrici Yeuele, Capitali[s] Cementari;'
Regis, percipiente (sic) xij d. per diem, videlicet, in pe?'soluc^em
eorw?idem vadiorw??^ suor?^??i per predicant tempus huius compoti,
vj li. ij s. v d. qa, per bre!«e Regis de magno sigillo datiim xxvij0 die
Septew&r/s, anno xiij0,2 prefato Galfrido, Clerico operacionu??i Reg/s,
directwwi; per quod brez^e Rex precepit dicfo Cle?-ico, qwod eidem
Henrico id quod ei aretro est de xij d. diuruis a vij° die Marc?)', anno
p?*imo, soluat, recipiendo a prefato Henrico liferas suas acquietancie,
que p?*o Rege sufficientes fue?int in hac parte, et per duas hVeras
acquietancie ipsius Henn'ci de recepcione, sicut coniinettir ibidem. Et
in vadijs Hugonis Swayn, p?-ouisoris Palacij Westmottasferi/ et
alio?*wm Mane?io?*2«m Regis, capientis per septi?/^a?^am ij s., a predicfo
xij° die Juk)', anno xiij0, vsqwe xvijm diem Jun?)', anno xiiij0, scilicet,
per Cj septimanas infra dic^wm tempus huiws compoti, x li. ij s., per
bre?«e Regis de p?-iuato sigillo datw??i xix° die Aprilis, anno xiij0,8
TLhesaurari-o et Baronibws hmus Sc«cca?ij diiectum, quod est inter
Communisi de te?*miwo Sancti Hillari/', anno xiiij0 ; pe?* quod brewe
Rex mandauit eisdem Thesaurario et Baronibws, qwod p?fefato
GalfricZo, Clerico dict&ium operacionu??i Regis, per szcmmentuw.
suu??z et testimow^m.Contr«rotwlatoris ear«^?^dem ope?•acionu??^ Regis,
vadia ij s. pe?* septimanam per ipsmii Gt&lfr-iduin. soluta p?*efato
Hugoni, prouisori lerum necessariarw??i dicfis operib?<s pertinenciim,
aceciam vadia vel regarda similiter per ipsztm soluta alijs p?-ouisori-
bws p?-o eisdem ope?*acio?abws diuersis vicibws, quando ipsi extiterunt
occupati circa prouidencias faeiend«s p?'o eisdem ope?'acio?abws,
a die quo idem GalfnWus p?-imo extitit oneratus de dicfo officio
1 7th in the writ, No. 228. a No. 242 (2) ; and see No. 222. 3 No. 218.

CHAUCER'S Account, as Clerk of the Works, 1389—1391. 305

suo, et qwamdiu erit in eodem offieio, allocari faciant, sicut
continetur ibicZem. Et in vadijs Johcmwis PritwelP, prouisoris
leium necessariarzm infra Palacimrc Westmonasterij et Turrim
Londom'e, ac vadijs Petri Cookes, prouisoris Manerij de Eltham,
videlicet, in persolucioftem dictomm vadiorw??i suomm per supradictos
DCCvj dies infra dictum, tempus huius comport, xx li. xj s. x d. ;
videlicet, dicto Johanni iiij d., et dicto Petro iijd., per diem, per
idem brewe Reg2*s, sicut contiwe^r ibidem, et sicut k\iius[modi] vadia
allocanttw in comports precedentibws. Et in vadijs Gill'i, Gardinarij
d-icrt Manerij Regzs de Eltham, ac vadijs Willelmi de Bokjngham,
Gardinarij de Sbene, in persolucionem dicforw??i vadiorww suorum
per predicts DCCvj dies, xvij li. xiij s., videlicet, vtriqwe eovum iij d.
per diem, per brewe Regis de p?*iuato sigillo datwm xxvjto die Octobris,
anno xiiij0,1 prefato GalfritZo inde directww ; per quod brewe Rex
mandauit eidem OalfhVZo, qwod prefatis GilFo et Wille7??io,
Gardinart)'s, id quod eis debetwr de vadijs suis causa officionwi
suorum, pro tempore quo idem GalfnVIus stetit in officio suo, et sic
de tempwe in tempws qwamdiu idem Qcalfridus steterit in dicto
officio et ijdem Gill's et WiUelmus steterint in dictis officijs suis,
solui faciat, sicut continetur ibzWem. Et in factura duorz/??i
Bca&sildoium in Sinythfeld', London', pro Rege et Regina et alijs
Do?)iinabws, p?*o hastiludt)'s ibidem, mensibws Maij et Octobris, infra
di'c^wm tempus huiws comport, viij li. xij s. vj d., per duo brewia Regw
de prtuato sigillo, quonem primwn datwm est prraio die Jult/, anno
xiiij0, Thescmran'o et Baronibz^s huiws Scaccarij direct??!, quod est
inte?1 Communid, de termi?zo Scmcrt Hillarij, eodem anno,2 et secundum
brewe datww est iiij*0 die Octobris, dicto anno xiiij0,3 p?'efato Clerico
difc£arw??i operac/onum Regis inde directum, et super hunc compo^wm
libe?'«^7?i, sicut conttV^wr ib^em. Et in pe?*donaciowe viginti
librarww per ips?<m Regem de gram sua specz'ali facfci prefato
Galfric^o, Cle?ico dictaxum operac^onu??^ Regis, de quibus quidem
xx li. idem GalfnWus felonice dep?*edatus fuit apud le Eoule Oke,
tercio die Septembm, di'c^o anno xiiij0, infra dictum tempus hui^^
compo^jf, xx li., per brewe Regis de priuato sigillo dat?<m vjto die
Januari;', dicto anno xiiij0,4 TLestmrano et Baronib?<s \mius Scaccarij
directw?^, quod est inter Gommunia, de te?'mi?zo Sancti Hilla?-z)', eodem
anno ; in quo quidem brewi inter cetera continetur, qiwd Rex de
giacia sua spea'ali perdonauit eidem Galfri^o p?*edic^as xxli., de
quibws idem Galfri^us felonice depredatus extitit apud le Foule Oke,
tercio die Septembm, anno xiiij0, per quod brewe Rex mandauit
eisdem Thesaurario et Baronibws, qwod ipswm Galfr/c?um de
p?*edicrts xx li. in compo^o suo exonerari et. quietu??^ esse faciant
causa sup?'adic£a, sicut continetur ibidem.

Swmma Expensm'wm et vadiorw??z predicforzm — M^xxx li. viij s.
xj d. ob. Et debetf Ixxix li. xviij s. j d. ob. Idem leddit compo-

1 No. 242 (7). 2 No. 220. 3 No. 242 (6). 4 No. 225.

306 TJie King's Dead Store handed over ly CHAUCER. A.D. 1391.

turn de eodew, d&bito. In thesauro, nichzY. Et in mrsis et
expensis per predictum Qalfridum tactis et appositis circa
reparacicwem et emendacto^em Capelle Regis Collegialis
Sancti Georgij infra Castru???. Regts de Wyndesore a xij° die
Julij, anno xiiij0, vsque viijum diem Jul?}', anno xv°, Cli.
xvij s. iiij d., sicut coniinetur in compirfo suo ii>de inmediate
infra. Et habe£ superplusagium xx li. xix s. j d. ob. Qui
certificantwr in C&iiGellariam Eegis, xvij0 die Nouembris, a?mo
xv°, per brewe Regzs irwtulatum in M.emorandis de anno xv°
Regis huiws, terramo Michoe/is, rotulo secundo.
niortui stauri. — * * *

[Here follows a long catalogue of goods, utensils, and materials, including,
(1) in Westminster Palace, one image of brass, two images of stone, seven images
made in the likeness of Kings ; two great "fanes" lately made for the great
Hall ; "certain parcels of a car (carre) made for King Edward, viz., two pairs
of wheels bound with iron ; " twelve hurdles for scaffolds ; one pair of double
lists containing in circuit 32 perches ; (2) in the Tower of London, " 5 machines
and one tumbril (tribugetf), otherwise called one small machine ; of which
(machines) one axe, one iron pin (cavill') called wynchepin, nine byndyngcordes,
and three wheels are altogether worn out ; " one ramme, etc. ; 100 round
stones called engine stones ; and other goods at Shene, Eltham, etc. All these
were received by Chaucer from Roger de Elmham, late Clerk of the Works, by
Indenture, No, 216.]

Liberacio stauri mortui, — Idem computat expendisse super op<?ri-
bus predicts tarn infra dict&ra Palaciuw et Turrim, q««m infra
Maneria, parcos, logias, et mutas predicts, per pmh'c£ttin tempus
limits compofi, j qwart. viij Ib. stauni pro soudur', xxx petras de
Stapulton' infra Palaciu?ra Westmonasterij, j mouncelP et dhnidium
plastr' albt abductt de Turn Londome vsq«<3 Shene, et ibid^?^
expenditiwtt, j cribraw infra Manerium de Sliene, ij wag' pluwibi, j
boll' pro mortare'0 intus portando, j tribuluw ferre infra Manexittm de
Eltham, xxxij pecias maerern^* non scapulatas, vij estrichbordes,
dimi&ium mouncell1 plastr', xx grosses el-duos cu??t c&pitibus stanuatw,
ij crowdewayns, iij tribulis (<sic), iij cribra, quorum ij debik'a, ij
bolles, ij trayes pro plastr* intus portando, j picois' infra Mane?iu??i
de Childrelangley, j tribulwm ferri, ij tribula non ferrata infra
Maner/M??i de Kenyngton', per predictum brewe Regz's patens anno-
tatum supra in titulo hmus compoti, sicut continetur in pred^c^'s
rotwlo et contrarot^lo de pa?'ticwlis. Et liberasse Johanni Gedney,
Clerico operacionu??t Regw infra Palacium, Turrim, et Maneria p?*e-
di'c^a, videlicet : INFRA DICTUM. PALACIUM WESTMONASTERIJ : viij
paria aundyrnes, qnoium ij pedes franguwtur et deuastantwr, j par
scipporum, j patellae, j rake, j ladel, j soudur' pro officio Plumbary,
j ymaginem eiis, ij yinagt'wes lapideos non depictas, vij ymagzwes
facias ad sbwtlituduiem Reguwi, xv clauo« vocatos cleryngnaylF pro
officio Vitriar//, ij nlolendt/^a manualia, quorum deficiunt ij parm
wynches, j lathe pro officio Carpentar&)', j par\\am campana??^
vocatam Wyron', j gcossum fern' cum toto apparatu, j crowe fern, j

1391. The King's Dead Store handed over by CHAUCER. 307

instrumentim vocatwm, Ramme, cuius stipes frangitz^r et deuastat?^', j
grosses anulws in superior! parto, et les staynghokes franguntwr et
deuastantw, j trsibem ferri stannati, cum statem lignea, diuersa pondera
plumbi continentia CCxljlb., ij gwssa fanes nuper facta pro magna
Aula, ij spyndell' fern pro eisdem, j olla[m] plumbeam pro glutine, v
casws fern pro fenestris vitreis, certis (sic) parcellas vmus carre facte
pro Rege Edwardo, videlicet, ij paria lotarum ferro lig&tarum, iiij
pecios pro celura camere, viij pecias ordinatas pro costem dicfo
came?'e, iiij pecias pro costis Aule, j somer cwn ax', ij stayngbarres fern
stannati, xij pecias naaererni; pro carra predicts,, j countr* coopertzm
de nouo cum viridi panno pro domo compotfi, j scopp', j botell' pro
incausto, j pixidera pro puluere, j picois', ij scalar, j cabell', xij
hirdles pro scaffaldes, j par de list' duplicate, continentals in
circuitu xxxij perticata^, xxj panellos vitri in casibus fern firmatos
p?'o fenestre's camere Regw, Ciiijxxv petras de Stapulton', continentes
xliij doliatas, j par potentegarnett' pro quodam ostio, j par gross'
potentegarnett' cum iiij boltes ferri, ij colers ferri nupe?* facta pro
quodam ponte vertibibi (sic), xij petms de Reigate p?*o ij fenestris, iij
ve?*tiuellos fern pro ostijs, iiij hopes fern pro rotis carr', ij anulo*
fern pro barrur' predictorzwi list', j v&terem trabem p?*o ponder', j
vetws f errament?/??i, ij tabular pro officio Vitriaw/, quarw?« j est pa?-ua,
ij slynges pur le Crane, ij tribula ferri, quorwra j debile, ij crowde-
wayns. INFRA TURRIM LONDON/JS : v machines, j tribugettw??i, alias
\ocatum j paruam macliina?^, quarwm j ax' et j cauillws fern vocatus
wynchepyn, ix byndyngcordes, et iij rote on^mo deuastantwr, j par
aundyrnes, j fern', cums virga perusitatwr, j ramme cum toto apparatu,
excepto j drawyngcord', que frangitz/?* et deuastat^^?•, j campanam
vocatam Wyron', j fryingpanne, ij crowes fern, ij giossos vertiuello^
ferri, j gross' barrur' fern, j patellam, j rake, j ladel pro officio
Plumbarz)', C petras rotundas vocatas engynstones, j petra??z marmo-
ream, j lathe pro officio Carpentan}', j ferramento (sic) vocatum grate, j
vetws ferramentwm defractwm, j tribuhm ferrat«<m, v scatfoldhirdles,
v scalas, et vj crowdewayns. INFRA MAN^IUM DE SHENE : v pan'a
aundyrns, v furc«s ferri pro camera Reg^'s, j par scippomm debilium,
ij trendell' eris, j cord' pur le Crane, j picois', j crowdewayn debile, ij
tribula ferri, j vanga??i pro ope?*ibws Gardinari/, j tinaw, iij tabular
mensales cum iij paribus tristellorwm, j howe, iij formulas. INFRA
MANS^IUJT DE ELTH^M : j howe, j vang«??^ pro operibus gardini, j
plumbum oper&tum pro furnaci, j fern', j brook' cum toto apparatu,
xij scaffaldlogges, j crowe ferri, j picois', j crowdewayn, iiij scaffald-
hirdles, j bokett', j cable defractz^wz, j bosse, j tiuam debilem, j
scomo^r, j ladell', j soudur' pro officio Plumbari/, j dragg' ferri pro
mundacio?ie stanni, j cord' p?*o ponte vertibili, j pipam vzcuam pro
aqua intus portanda. INFRA MANERICJM DE KENYNGTON' : iij paria
aundy[r]nes, ij scala??^. INFRA MANER/JJM DE LANGLEY : x pecias
maeremi;' fabricates, ij logges scapulatrt, j resne, liiij raftres, xxxviij
pecias maeremt/ non scapulatas, xxj estrichbord', j crowdewayn, j

308 Jn. Gedwy's Account. CHAUCER giveshlmup his Windsor work.

bolle, j traye pro plastr' intus portando, j mattok', j vang«?>i fern", iiij
grossos vertiuellos cum iiij stonhokes pro eisdem, j noutem cable, j
cribrz/wi. INFRA MANE/HUM" DE BYFLETE : j instrumental vocatum
bill' et j cord' pro operibus ibiV/em : per predictum breeze Reg/s
de magno sigillo supra in titulo hui?<s compel annotate???, et per
indenturaw ipsius Johowmis de rezepcione, sicut continettir ibidem.
De quibws quidem viij p&vibus aundyrnes et alijs diuorsis rebus
supradecfts idem Johannes debe£ respondere. Et respondet infra.

Johannes Gedney, Clericus operacionura Regz's, \blanli] de viij
pxribus aundyrnes et alijs rebz/s suprodtc/is, rece^^'s de GalfriJo
Chauncer, per indenturam, sicut supra contawe^wr.

238.

1391, June 17. — Account of John Gedeney, Chaucer's successor in the
office of Clerk of the Works, beginning at this date.

[Foreign Accounts, 18 Kic. II., forulaE.]
MIDD'. — Compotus Johannis Gedeney, quern Rex per
suas patentes datos xvij° die Junij, anno regni sui xiiij0, penes i
3ohann&m reman entes, inter cetera assignauit ad operaciones Palacij
sui Westmonasterij, Turris Londoiu'e, [etc.] * * * [ad] talia
vadia et per modum prout GalfrtWo Cnaucer, nupe/1 Cle/ico
ope?*acionu??i Rege's p?*edic^arwm, in casu consi??itli antfe] hec temj'0?-a
allocata extiterwn^ * * * a supradiofo xvij° die Junij, anno xiiij0,
ante que?M diem prefatus Galfr?V7us Chaucer inde computauit, Hotulo
xiiij0, Rotulo Compotorum, vsque xvijm diem Junij anno xvj°. * * *

239.

1391, July 8. — Writ to Chaucer to resign to Gedney the repairs of
St. George's Chapel, Windsor.

[Exchequer Accounts, "Works, -V^ .]

RICABDUS, Dei grada Rex Angh'e et Tranche, et Dominus
Hibe?'m'e, dilecfo [sibi Galfrido Chaucer],1 Clerico operacionu?>i
nostrwum, sah^^em. Cum assignaueriim/3 Johannem Gedeney,
Clericum operacionum predict&rum, ad Capellani nosfram Collegialem
Sancti Georgij infra Casftrum nostrum de Wyndeso]re, que minat?«r
ruine et in punctu ad terram cadendi existit, nisi cicius fac/a et
emendata fue?it, sufficienter fieri faciendum, sec?md?mi ordinac/owem
et auisamentum Consilij nostri, et ad quedfam alia] in literis nos^ris
patentibws inde confectis contenta faciendi? et explenda, prout in
eisdem kVeris plenius continetwr : tibi precipimws, q?^od te de
premissis faciende's seu exequcnd^s nullatenus intromittas, volunws
enim te exnunc erga nos exonerari. Teste me ipso, ad (sic) West-
r&onasterium, viij. die Julij, anno regni nostri quintodecimo.

Burton'.

1 The writ is partly decayed, and Chaucer's name has entirely disappeared.

1391. CHAUCER'S Account for St. George's Chapel, Windsor. 309

240.

1391, July 8. — Chaucer's Account as Clerk of the Works at St.
George's Chapel, Windsor, from 12th July 1390 to this date.

[Exchequer L. T. R. Foreign Accounts, 14 Ric. II., fomlaC.]
DE REP^BAC/OJVE CAPELLB COLLEGIALIS SANCTI GEORGIJ INFRA
CASTRUM DE WYNDESORB, A xu° DIE JULJ/, ANNO xnu°, \SQUE

VIIJm DIEM JULZJ, ANNO XV°.

~PER EUNDEM1 GALFRn>[/M [CHAUNCEB].

WYNDESORE. — OOMPOTUS Gralfr/tZi Chaimcer, quern Eex, per
Itoas suas patentes, datos xij° die July, anno xiiij0,2 iiiotulatas in
Ongmalibus de eodem anno, assignauit Clericuw ad Capella?^ Regis
Collegialem Sancti Georgij infra Castrum 'Regis de Wyndesore, quo
minatwr ruine et in punctu ad te?*ra??i cadendi existit, nisi cicius
facfa et emendata fuerit sufficients?*, fieri facienda???, et ad lathamos,
carpentanos, et alios operarios et laboratores pro opeiibus eiusde?^
Capelle neccessarios, vbicu?wqwe infra libertates vel extra, feodo
ecclesie durataxat excepto, inueniri poterunt, per se et deputatos
suos eligendos et capiendos, et eos super operibus pred/c/is ponendos,
ibidem ad vadia Eegis, qwamdiu indigue?it, moraturos, et ad petras,
vitru??i, plumbu?^, et omnis, alia pro operacionibus
neccessaria, aceciam cariagiu??^ pro prernissis ad Castru??z
predictum, ad locu??z vbi Capella sic iacta, fuerit, ducendi^-, capienda,
pro denams Reg^ ra^'onabilite?* soluend^, tarn pro premissis qwam
pro cariagio predieto, per superuisu??^ et testimomum Contrarotwla-
tom operac^'onu??^ Reg^s Palacij sui Westmonctsterij ; videlicet, tani
de hniusmodi vadijs, misis, et expenses per ip^«m Galfr^dum fac^is
super operib^ predicts, qiiam de stauro mortuo ibidem reman ente,
a pred/c#o xij° clie Julz/, anno xiiij °,vsqite viijm diem Jul^', anno xv°,
per visu??^ et test'imonium Willelmi Hannay, Cont?*arotwlator^s
dict&mm operacfc'onuw Reg/s ibidem, quo die Rex, per literas suas
patentes, assignauit Joha^^em Gedney, Clericu??z operac^onu??i Regz's,
ad Capellam Reg^ supradictam sufficienter fieri faciendum, pe?* brewe
Regis de magno sigillo datum eodem viij° die Juk}', anno xv°, per
quod brewe Rex precepit dic^o Gralfr^o, quod se de p?*emissis
faciend/s seu explend^s nullatenus intromittat; a quo die idem
Johawrces est inde computaturus.

Expense. — Idem computat in Cj doliat/s petre de Stapulton' et
CC carectatis petre de Reygate empt/s pro fac^ura et ernendac^o?&e
dicte Capelle Regz's Sancti Georgij infra dictum Castru??^ de
Wyndesore nonduw expendit/5, vnacu??^ frettagio, batellagio, et
cariagio dic^e petre de diuersis locis vbi empte fuerunt et prouise
vsqz^e Castrum p?*ed^c^m ; necnon vadijs trium laborariomm ope-
ranciu??i circa onerac^oTiem et exoneracwwem diuersarw??^ carectarwwt

1 This Account immediately follows No. 237 on the roll.

2 No. 221, elated exactly a year after No. 209.

310 CHAUCER and St. George's Chapel and Windsor Castle. 1391.

cum petra petra (sic), ac posici'cwe[m] eiusdem infra magna??i aulam
Castri predict, per xvj dies ; ac vadijs Johawiis Paule, prouisoris
ibidem, equitantis et laboranti's circa dictas empct'o-wem et p?y;uisionem
petre predicte ac cariagio (sic) eiusdem, a primo die Auguati, anno xiiij0,
vsque viij. diem July, anno xv°, per CCCxlj dies, vltimo die
computato, et non prmio, capiente's per diem iiijd., infra dictum
tempus huius compofi — C li. xvij s. iiij d., per predictum brewe Regz's
annotat-um supra in titulo huius compofi, sicut coniinetur in quodam
Rotulo ipsius Galfriol, et eciam in quodam Rotulo predict Contra-
rotwlatoris de pa?'ticwlis, hie in Thesauro liberatis. De qua quidem
petra idem GalfriV/us debe£ respondere. Et lespondet infra.

Summa, expensarum^—C li. xvij s. iiij d. Que allocantwr eidem
Galfrido in compoto suo supra.1

Petra de Stapulton' et Reygate. — Idem reddit compotum de Cj
doliatz's petre de Stapulton' et CO carectat^s petre de Reygate receptis
de empciowe, sicut supra continetur. Quam quidem petra??i liberauit
Johanni Gedney, Cle?*ico operacwnu??i Reg^s ibide??i, per predictum
brewe 'Regis daium viij° die July, anno xv°, et indentura??i ipsius
Johannis de lecepto, sicut coniinetur in diesis rot?^lo et cont?*arotMlo
de particulis. De qua quidem petra idem Johannes dehet respondere.
Et lespondet infra.

Johannes Gedney, Clericus operaciomm Regzs de Wyndesore,
[blank] de Cj doliaU's petre de Stapulton' et CC carectatis petre de
Reygate receptis de Galfrt'rfo Chauncer, nuper Clerico earuwdem
operacionu??t Regea ibidem, per indenturam,2 sicut sup?*« continetur.

241.

1391, July 12. — Indenture between Chaucer and Gedney as to the
delivery of certain quantities of stone for the works in Windsor
Gentle.

[Exchequer Accounts, Works, -BTV- .]

HEC INDENT UR A, facta inte?* Galfr^mi Chaucer, nuper Clericufft
operacionu??^ Regis infra Castruw de Wyndesore, ex porte vna, et
Johannem Gedenoye, Clen'cum earwwdem operac^onu?w, ex parte
alte?-a, testator, quod predzc^us GalfriWus libe?-auit eidem Johanni
partic^las subscripts, videh'cet : Cj. doliatas petre de Stapilton', CC
carectatas petre de Reygate. In cuius rei testimomum presentibws
inde?^twris partes predicte sigiHa sua alte?*natim apposueru?«t.
Datum apud Wyndesore, duodecimo die Julij, anno regni Reg/s
^.icardi secwidi quintodecimo.

[Gedney's seal is attached : a bird, with the legend, S' Joh'is Gedeneye.]

242.

1391, Oct. — A File of sixteen documents subsidiary to Chaucer's
Accounts as Clerk of the Works, referring to repairs and ivorks
1 In No. 237, p. 306. 2 See No. 241.

1391. Six Vouchers of CHAUCER as Clerk of the Works. 311

at Westminster, the Tower, Windsor, and elseiohere ; and consist
ing of Writs, Indentures, and Receipts, between June 1389 and
October 139 1.1

[Exchequer Accounts, etc., "Works, ^W-]

1. Indenture between King Richard II. and John Westcote of
London, William Jancook of Maydeston, and Thomas Crompe of
Otteham, masons, who undertake to do certain works in the Tower
of London, by the advice and under the oversight of " the King's
Treasurer, Sir John Hermesthorp, and the Clerk of the Works, and
Henry Yevele." Dated on the morrow of the Nativity of St. John
the Baptist, 13 Eic. II. [25 June 1389.] (In French.)

2. Writ to Geoffrey Chaucer, Clerk of the Works, commanding
him to pay to Henry de Yevele2 the arrears of I2d. a day granted to
him by King Edward III., and confirmed on 7 March 1 Bic. II.,
from that date. The grant was made to him " for all his life, viz.
during the Works " in the Palace of Westminster and the Tower of
London. Dated 27 Sept. 13 Kic. II. [1389.]

3. Indenture between Roger [Elinham], Clerk of the Works, and
Geoffrey Chauncere, CJerk of the same Works, [testifying the
delivery to the said] Geoffrey of numerous parcels of dead store in
the Palace of Westminster, the Tower of London, and certain manors,
including andirons, images of brass and stone, "seven images made
in the likeness of kings," a lathe for the carpenter's office, a small
bell called " Wyron," etc. Dated at',' Westminster, 10 Nov. 13 Ric.
II. [1389.] (Decayed and faded. The counterpart of this Indenture
has been printed before, No. 216.)

4. Writ to Geoffrey Chaucer, Clerk of the Works in the Palace
of Westminster, to pay to the King's clerk, William de Hannay, the
arrears of his wages of \2d. a day, granted to him by letters patent
of 8 May, 12 Ric. II., whereby he was appointed to make, oversee,
and control all purveyances, purchases, and payments for the King's
Works at Westminster, the Tower, Windsor, and many other places
(specified), etc. Dated 16 Feb. 13 Ric. II. [1390.]

5. Receipt by Master Henry Yevele, the King's chief Mason, for
several sums paid to him by Geoffrey Chauncer, Clerk of the
Works. Dated on the morrow of St. Michael, 14 Ric. II.
[30 Sept. 1390.]

6. Portion of a Writ of Privy Seal of King Richard II. to ,

mentioning William Hannay, Controller of his Works in the Palace
of [Westminster,] and " procheines joustes, selonc lauys de les vsshers

de nostre Ch " Dated at Westminster, " le qua . .

" [4 Oct. 1390 *]

1 These were first described by Dr. Furnivall, in Trial- Forewords, p. 132.

2 His office is not stated here ; elsewhere it is stated that he was the Chief
Mason ; see No. 237, p. 304, and § 15, below.

312 Ten Vouchers of CHAUCER as Clerk of the Works. 1391.

7. Writ of Privy Seal " a nostre ame Esquier Geffrey Chaucer,
Clerc de noz ouereignes," to pay the wages of "noz amez semantz
Guilliam,1 Gardiner de nostre Manoir de Eltham, et William [Rokyn]g-
ham, Gardiner de nostre Manoir de Shene." Dated 26 October,

14 Ric. II. [1390.] (In French; much faded.)

8. Receipt by William Hannay, Controller of the King's Works,
for 28?. 8s. as wages, paid by Geoffrey Chaucer, Cterk of the King's
Works. Dated 12 Jan. 14 Ric. II. [1391.]

9. Writ to Geoffrey Chaucer, Clerk of the Works, to pay the
wages of Richard Swift, the King's master Carpenter and " dispositor "
of the King's Works, at 12d. a day, from the date of his appointment,
1 Jan. 1 Ric. II. [1378.] Dated 14 Feb. 14 Ric. II. [1391.]

10. Receipt by Richard Swift, as above, for 181. 5s., paid by
Geoffrey Chaucer, Clerk of the Works. Dated 15 Feb. 14 Ric. II.
[1391.]

11. Writ to Geoffrey Chaucer, late Clerk of the King's Works,
to deliver up his office, rolls, etc., to John Gedney, who has been
appointed in his place. Dated 17 June, 14 Ric. II. [1391.] (See
full copy, under date.)

12. Writ to [Geoffrey Chaucer,]2 late Clerk of the King's
Works, not to intermeddle with the repairs of the Collegial Chapel of
St. George within the Castle of Windsor, which is very ruinous and
on the point of falling to the ground, those repairs having been
committed to John Gedney, Clerk of the Works. Dated 8 July,

15 Ric. II. [1391.] (Decayed. See full copy, under date.)

13. Indenture between Chaucer and Gedney, witnessing that the
former had delivered to the latter "101 tons of stone of Stapilton,
[and] 200 cartloads of stone of Reygate." Dated at Wyndesor,
12 July, 15 Ric. II. [1391.] (See full copy , under date.)

14. Receipt by William Hannay, Controller, for 6Z. 18s. I as wages,
paid by Geoffrey Chaucer, [late] Clerk of the King's Works.
Dated at London, 1 Oct. 15 Ric. II. [1391.]

15. Receipt by Henry Yevelee, chief Mason, for 18s, §\d. as
wages, paid by Geoffrey Chaucer, late Clerk of the King's Works.
Dated 11 Oct. 15 Ric. II. [1391.]

16. Portion of an Indenture between Geoffrey Chaucer, late

Clerk of the Works, and , [touching the delivery

by the former 1~] of materials, tools, vessels, goods, etc. The following
passages remain : " vmus carr' facte pro Rege Edwardo, v^'z.
ij par' rotanm ferro ligatarum" ; "xij pec' meremij pro carra
predicts " ; " scaffold', j. par de lystes dupplF continent' in circuitu " ;

1 "Gillott" was Gardener at Eltham, 11—13 Ric. II., 1387-89.— Hannay's
Account, 473/5. 2 Name decayed.

c.'s Accounts as Clerk of the Works to be examined and paid. 313

"ix anuF ferr' pro barrur' predict' listes;" etc. The Manors of
Eltham and Kenyngton are mentioned towards the end. Dated at
Westminster, 7th 1

243.

1391, Nov. 12. — Mandate to the Exchequer to account toith Chaucer
as Clerk of the Works, and to pay whatever is due to him.

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Mich., 15 Ric. II., Brevia, roll 31 d.]

Pro Galfr/c?o 1 Rex, Thesaurario et Baronibz^s suis de Scaccario, ac
Chaucer. J Camerart/s suis, saltern. Cum duodecimo die Julij,
anno regni nostri terciodecimo, per hYeras nos/ras
patentes, constituernm/s et assignauerinws dilectum nobt's GtsHfridum.
Chaucer Clericum operacionu?H nostrarum apud Palaciuw nostrum
Westmonasterij, Tnrrim nosti&m Londome, Castrum de Berkhamsted',
et Maheria nostfra de Kenyngton' et Eltham, ac alia maneria et logia
nosfra, ac ad lathamos, carpentarios, et alios operarios et laboratores
quoscumqwe, qui oper&cionibus predtcfis necessarij fuerint, eligendos
et capiendos, et in dictis opersicionibus nostris ponendos, super eisdem
operacionibws ad vadia nos/ra moraturos, necnon ad petras, maere-
miu??t, et omnia alia necessaria pro eisdem operaca'ombws, ac cariagiuw
pro eisdem maeremio et alijs necessarijs ad loca p?*edtc^a, pro denarijs
nosfris per ipsum Galfr;Wwm soluendis, per se et deputatos suos
capienda et prouidenda, et ad quascumqwe solucz'o?ies, tarn p?*o
vadijs dtctorvm operariomm, quam pro ernpcKmibws, prouidencijs, et
cariagijs, et alijs misis et expensis quibuscumq^e dtc^as operacio?ies
qualitercumqwe tangentibws, faciendos, et ad ramos, corticem, et alia
residua de arboribws pro dictis operac^owibz^ prouisis ad opus
nostrum vendenda, et nob/s de denarijs inde prouenientibws respon-
dendum, percipiendo p?*o vadijs suis in officio predicto duos solidos
per diem, de denarijs no^ris p?'edictis, prout in eisdem literia pleniws
continetwr : Vobw, prel'ati Thesaurarie et Barones, mandamws, quod
cum prefato Galfr^Wo, a pred^c^o duodecimo die Julij vsqz^e decimmn
septimuw diem Junij proximo p?'eteritum, quo die Johawwem Gedeney
constituinms Clericum operaceonuw predictarum, de preniissis com-
putetis, vlterius fieri facientes quod natura compoti exigit et requirit ;
et vos, prefati Thesaurarie et Camerare)', de eo quod per huiusmodi
compotu??* predicti Galfn'di, a predicto duodecimo die Julij vsqwe
dictum decimu??^ septimu??^ diem Junij, eidem Galfrido deberi
inueneritis, debitam soluczo?iem de tliesauro nostro habeie i&ciatis.
Teste me ipso, apud Westmowas£er/w??i, xij1* die ISTouembm, anno
legni nostri quintodecimo.

1 This is probably part of the Indenture between Chaucer and Gedney,
relating to the inventory quoted in No. 237, under the head of "Liberacio
mortal stauri." Gedney's file is not extant, and therefore the counterparts of
this Indenture and of § 13, above, are wanting.
LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 21

314 Part-Payments of tie King's Debt to CHAUCER. 1391-2.

244.

1391, Nov. 13. — Mandate to the Exchequer to certify into Chancery
the sum due to Chaucer on his account as Clerk of the Works ;
with the Certificate [made on Nov. 17 j see p. 306.]

[Exchequer Q. K. Memoranda Roll, Mich., 15 Hie. II., Brevia, roll 2 d.]
"Pro GalfriWo \ Rex, Thesawan'o et Baronibws suis de Scaccario,

Chaucer. / salwtem. Volentes certis de causis certiorari que et
quanta surama denarionm per nos GalfMo Chaucer,
nuper Clerico operaci'onum nosti&ium, in compoto suo, coram vobz's
ad Scaccarium predictum, vt dicitar, reddito, de tempore quo ipse
Clericus ope?«acionuw predzc£ar«?«, extitit, debetwr, vobis mandamws,
q?«0d, viso compoto predictot nos inde in Cancellart'am nosfram, sub
sigillo Scaec«rij predict, sine dilac/one reddatis cerciores, hoc brewe
nobis remittentes. Teste me ipso, apud Westmo?iasterium, xiij° die
Nouembm, anno legni nostri quintodecimo.

Hoc brewe remittitwr Caneellaree, vnacum certificactowe super
premissis fac^a, in hec verba :

Pretextu huius brewis, scrutatis rotwlis et memora?zdis Scaccari]
super contenta in eodem, compertu??* est, in compoto GalfrtVIi
Chauncer, Clerici operac^onu??i "Regis infrascripti, a xij° die Julij, anno
xiij°, vsqwe xvijm diem June)', anno xiiij0, Rotzdo xiiij0, Rotwlo
Compotonwi, quod debentz^r eidem OalfrtWo xx li. xix s. ij d. ob. (sic.)

245.

1391, Dec. 1 6. — Payment of 3Z. 1 3s. ±d. , part of the balance of 201. 1 9s.

due to Chaucer on his Account as late Clerk of the Works.
[Issue Roll, Mich., 15 Ric. II., m. 14.]
§ Die Sabbatf , xvj° die Decembm.

GalfnWus \ Galfrido Chaucere, nuper Clerico operacionum Domini
Chaucere. / Regzs : In denam's per ipswm recepti's de Joho?me
Innocent, clerico, in parteni solucionis xx li. xix s. j d. ob.
sibi debitts de superplusa^'o, per compotum secum fac^wm ad
Scaccan'wm Compotorum de receptts, misis, et expense per ipswm
fac^is in officio suo predecto, videlicet, a xij° die Julij, anno xiij° Regis
huius, vsq^^e xvijm diem Junij proximo sequen^em ; quod quidem
superplusa^m??^ per bre^^e de magno sigillo Thesaurario et Baronibws
directurn certificate in Cancellarm?^ RegtV, et per aliud brewe de
eodeni magno sigillo retowrnatwr in Receptam Scaccarij, pro solucione
haftenda de supe?*plusa^'o p?*ed^c#o, per dictum brewe de maguo
sigillo, inter mandaf a de hoc termino ... ... Ixxiij s. iiij d.

246.

1392, March 4. — Payment of a further sum of 31. Qs. 8d. to Chaucer
on the same Account.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 15 Ric. II., m. 21.]

1 392-3. CHAUCER paid his Clerk-of-the-Works debt, and £10 more. 315

§ Die Lune, quarto die Marcij.

Galfh'cftis \ GalfhWo Chaucere, nuper Clerico operacionum Domini
Chaucere. / Regis : In denam's sibi liberate, videlicet, per manus
Johamiis Donne, Joynour, de London, in par tern
soluczoms xx li. xix s. j d. ob. sibi debiU's de superplusagtfo, per
conipoium secum factuw. ad Scaccan'wm Compotorum de receptz's,
misis, et expenses per ipswm factis in officio suo predicfo, videlicet, a
xij° die Julij, anno xiij° Regis hums, vsqwe xvijm diem Junij
proximo sequentem ; quod quidem superplnsagium per brewe de
magno sigillo Thesaurario et Baronibws directum certificate in
Cancellarzaw Regis, et per aliud brewe de eodem magno sigillo
retowrnat^^r in Receptam Sc«ccarij, p)'o solucione haftenda de super-
plusa^io predicfo, per dictum brewe de magno sigillo, inter mandafo
de hoc termino ... ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

247.

1392, July 13. — Final payment of part of the balance due to Chaucer
as Clerk of the Works, making 2,01. 6s. 8d. in allt and leaving
12s. 4%d. unpaid.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 15 Ric. II., m. 10.]

§ Die Sabb«rt, xiij* die Julij.

GalfraWus \ Galfr^Zo Chaucere, nuper Clerico ope?'actonuw* Domini
Chaucere. / Regis : In denarus sibi liberates, per manus propi^'as, in
partem soluciowis xx li. xix s. j d. ob. sibi debits de
superplustfi/w}, per compotum secum factum ad Scacca?'z'wm Compo-
torum de receptis, misis, et expense* per ipswm factis in officio suo
predt'cfo, videlicet, a xij° die Julij, anno xiij* Regis huius, vsqwe xvijm
diem Junij proximo sequentem ; quod quidem superplusa^mm per
brewe de magno sigillo Thesaurario et Baronibws directum certificatur in
Cancellarea??i Regis, et per aliud brewe de eodem magno sigillo
retornatiw in Receptam Scaccarij, pro solucione haienda de supe?*plus-
agio predtc^o, per dic£wm brewe de magno sigillo, inter manda/a de
termino Sancti Mich«e?is proximo preterite . . . xiij li. vj s. viij d.

248.

1393, Jan. 9. — Gift o/XlO by the King to Chaucer, as a reward for
his good service during the "present n year.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 16 Ric. II., m. 12.]

§ Die Jouis, ix° die January/.

GalfhWus \ GalfhWo Chaucei-e, scutifero : In denam's silji liberat/s,
Chaucere. / per manus proprias, in persoluczottem x li., quas Dommns
Rex sibi liberare mandauit, de dono suo, pro regardo et
bono seruicio per ipswm \iabiio isto anno iam presente, per brewe de
priuato sigillo, inter mandato de termi?»o Pasche proximo preterito

xli.

316 CHAUCER'S Loan repaid him. He gets a £20 Annuity. 1393-4.

249.

1393, May 22. — Repayment to Chaucer of 66Z. 13s. 4d., lent by him
for the King's Works. (See No. 230.)

[Issue Roll, Easter, 16 Ric. II., m. 9.]
Die Jouis, xxijdo die Maij.

GalfnVZus \ GalfhVto Chaucere, nuper Clerico operaczonum Domini
Chauce?'C. / Regis : In denarm sibi liberat/s, per manus proprias, in
persoluczcwem Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d., quos Domino Regi ad
Receptam Scaccarij, per restituczowem vnius tallie eidem Galfr/r/o
nuper assignate, super operibws p?-edzcZis, videlicet, vjto die Aprilis,
anno xiiij0, mutuo liberauit, vt patet in RoZwlo Recepte de eodem
die ... ... ... ... ... ... Ixvj li. xiij s. iiij d.

250.

1394, Feb. 28. — Grant by the King to Chaucer of an annuity of £20.

[Patent Roll, 17 Rio. II., p. 2, m. 35. Godwin, App. xxii.]
Pro GalfrzVZo \ Re#, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, qwod
Chaucer. / de graa'a nosfra spec/ali, et pro bono seruicio quod
dilec^us Armiger nos/er, GalfriWus Chaucer, nobw
impendi/, et impendet in futurw??^, concessimz^s eidem Galfr/do viginti
libras percipiend«s singulis annis ad Scaccarium nostrum ad terminos
Pasche et Sancti MichaeZis per equales porc/o?ies, ad totam vitam
suam. In cuius etc. Teste Rege, apud Westmonasteriimi, xxviij. die
February.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

251.

1394, Dec. 10. — Payment of Chaucer's new annuity from 28th Feb.
to Michaelmas last.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 18 Ric. II., m. 8. Nicolas, note U.]
§ Die Jouis, x° die Decembm.

GalfhYZus 1 GalfreWo Chaucere, eui Dommtts Re^ nunc xxviij0 die
Chaucere. j Februar^)' proximo prete?*ito xx li. ad Scaccarmm, ad
totam vitam suam, ad trnninos Sancti MichaeZis et
Pasche per equales porciones percipienda,?, pro bono se?*uicio per ipsum
eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, per h'feras suas patentes
concessit : In denarm sibi libe?*at^, per manus proprias, in per-
soluczo/iem xxxiij s.1 vij d. sibi liberandwwm de hmusmodi certo suo,
videl/cet, pro rata a pre&icto xxviij0 die February vsqwe vltimum
diem Martij proximo sequentem, per bre?/e suum de liberate, inter
mandofo de hoc termino xxxiij s.1 vij d.

1 "xxxvi." in Nicolas, wrongly.

1395. A Loan of £10 to CHAUCER. He repays it. 317

Eidem Galfh'do : In denams sibi liberate, per maims propi'ias, in
persolucfc'owem x li. sibi liberandarztm de lamitsmodi certo suo, videlicet,
pro terim?io Sanct'i MichaeZis vltimo preterite, per brewe suum de
liberate, inter mandate de hoc termino x li.

252.

[1394-5.] — Payment by the Receiver of John of Gaunt to Thomas
Chaucer ', " by name Reynold Curteys," of 131. 6s. Sd., for the
Dukda own affairs.

[Duchy of Lancaster, Accounts (Various), 32/21.]

Certificate of the Account of the Receiver General of John, Duke
of Guienne and Lancaster, from 12th August in the 18th year [of
Kichard II. ] l to the Purification following.

Among the payments :

Item a Thomas Chaucier, de noun' Reynald' Curteys, a luy deuz
pur certeines busoignes Monsr ... ... xiij li. vj s. viij d.

253.

1395, April 1. — Loan of £10 to Chaucer on account of his annuity,
due at Easter next ; 2 repaid on 28th May.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 18 Kic. II., m. 16, Nicolas, note U.]
§ Die Jouis, primo die Aprilis.

GalfnYto Chaucere, cui Dominus Rex xx li. annwo* ad Scace&rium,
ad totam vitam suain, ad terminos Sancti Michae/is et Pasche per
equales porciones percipienda*, pro bono seruicio per ipsum eidem
Domiuo TLdicardo Regi impenso, per hYeras suas patentes concemY,
quas quideni hYeras Dominua Rex nunc confirmauit : In denam's sibi
libe?*at£s', per manus propiias, de prestito super Imiusmodi certo suo,
videh'cet, pro termino Pasche proximo futuro ... x li. ; vnde

Respondebit. Postea restituit summam snbscriptam,3 vt patet in
pelle, xxviij0 die Maij proximo sequence.

254.

1395, INfay 28. — Repayment by Chaucer of the loan of £10 made to
him on \st April.

[Receipt Roll, Easter, 18 Ric. II.]

1 This is supposed, in the official catalogue, to be the 18th year of John of
Gaunt, = 2—3 Ric. II. ; but the Duke usually adopted the regnal year of the
King for the time being, according to his Registers. The Duke's Registers
unfortunately contain very little after about 1385 ; probably a volume is wanting.

2 Easter Day was on llth April in 1395.

3 This refers to "xli.," written in the margin of the roll. Under date of
17th Feb. is a payment to a John Chancy, or Chaucy, of part of his annuity of
100*., granted to him for his good service to the King.

318 Advances to CHAUCER. His Annuity paid him. 1395.

§ Die Veneris, xxviij. die Maij.

Prestitura \ De Galfh'do Chaucere x li., de denanw sibi liberates,
restitutuw. / de prestito, pn'mo die Aprilis vltimo preterite.

[Note in margin :]
Pro eodem Galfh'eto, de x li. annufo

255.

1395, June 25. — Lo«w o/£10 to Chaucer on account of his annuity,
due at Easter last.1

[Issue Roll, Easter, 18 Ric. IL, m, 15. Nicolas, noteV.J
§ Die Veneris, xxvto die Junij.

GalfhWus \ Galfr&fo Chaucere, cui Dominus Rear mine xxli, aim ton?
Chaucere. / ad Scoecan'um, ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancfi
Michaels et Pasche per equales porciones percipiendos,
pro bono semicio per ips2*m eidem Do??wno Regi impenso et im-
pendendo, per hYeras suas patentes concern^ : In denar*'«> sibf
liberatis, p^r manus propriV^, de prestito super \WL\usvnodi certo s«ot
videh'cet, pro tennino Sancti Michaels proximo futuro .., xli. ; vnde
Eespondebit.

25G.

1395, Sept. 9. — Loan of 26& 8^. to CJiaucer on account of his
annuity.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 18 Ric. IL, m. 23, Nicolas, note V.]
§ Die Jouis, ix& die Septembr/s.

(Jalfr/cZo Chaucer, cui Downnws Rex nunc xx li. anm/os ad
Scaccanwm, ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancti Michaels ef
Pasche pe?' equales porciones percipiendfts, pro bono semicio pe>'
iipstcm eidem Dommo Regi impenso et impendendo, per litetas suas
patentes concern^ : In denariis sibi liberatzi?, per manus proprias, de
prestito sup^r certo suo ... ... ... xxvj ». viij d. ; vnde

Respondebit.2

257.

1395, Nov. 27. — Chaucer's annuity ; payment of SL 6s. Sd. out of
£10 due to him at Michaelmas last.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 19 Ric. IL, m. 10, Nicolas, note W.]
§ Die Sabbafi, xxvij" die Nonembm.

Galfr^us } Galfr/^o Chauce?*e, cui Dominus Rex xx li. annuas ad

Chaucjere. / Scacca?'^m, ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancfi

MichaeZis et Pasche per equales porciones percipiendas,

1 The entry says " Michaelmas next," but this must be wrong ; the £10 was
due at the previous Easter.

2 He repaid this sura on 1st March, 1396 ; see No. 258.

1396. Payments by and to CHAUCER. He takes seisin for Bollard. 319

pro bono seruicio per ipsum eidem Domino Regi impenso et
impendendo, per bYeras suas paten tes concessit : In denam> sibi
liberate per manus propr/as, de prestito super Imiusmodi certo suo,
videlicet, pro termino Pasche proximo future

viij li. vj s. viij d. ; vnde

Respondebit. Postea deducuntt^r de- hunitsmodf certo suo, vt patet
in pelle, promo die Marcij proximo sequente.1

258.

1396, March I- — Repayment by Ofiaiteer to* the Exchequer of his loan
of 26*. 8tf. (See ATo. 256.)

[Receipt Roll, Mich., T9 Ric. FIJ
§ Die Mercurt}', prime die Marcij*.

Prestitum \ De- Galfr/>fo Chaucer xxvjs* viij d^, die dfcnari/s sibi
restitutuw. f libe?*atis de- prestifco. Sol.

1396, March 1. — Chaucer's anwiit'y ; payment of IT. 13s; 4dT.,. the
balance dwe to him at Michaelmas last.

[Issue- Roll, Mich., 19' Ric. II., m. 20. Nicolas, note WJ
§ Die Mercun}', primo die Marcij..

GalfrzV?us \ Galfr^o Chaucere, cui Domimw Rex n*mc xx ILamiMtts
Chaucere. / ad Smcc&rium, ad totam viUam suam, ad te?-minos Sancti
MichoeZIs e^ Pasche, per equales porciones percipiendas,
pro bono seruicio pe?*ip«um eidem Domino Regi impenso etfimpendeiido,
per hYeras suas patentes coixcessif : In-denaii?>sibi liberatis, per ma-nus
proprias, in persoluet'owem? x li. sibi liberando!rw??v de Ifmiftsmo^ certo
suo, videlicet, p?-o te?*mino Sawcti Mieheselis vltwno p?-ete?*ito, de(J\ict/<s
vero viij li. vj s. viij d. sibi liberates de prestito super hwusmodi uerto
suo, videl/cet, xxvij0' die Nouembm vltimo preterite, per \>vcue suu?«
de liberate, inter mandate de hoc termino ...^ xocxiij.s. iiijd.

260,

1396, April 6. — Deed by Gregory BalTard', appointing CJiaucer and
otJiers, as his attorneys^, to- tdlce seisin for him of certain lands in
Kent, of which he had been enfeoffed by the Archbishop of Y&r/f.

[Close Roll, 19 Ric. II., m. 8 <L]

De scripto \ Pateat vniuersis pe>* presentes, q^^0d ego, Gregorms

irrotulato. / Ballard', assignaui et loco m*o posui dilecfos mihi in

CJiristo Johannem de Wiltoa'y Galfrw^um Chamcer,

1 This means that only II. 13s.. 4c?. was paid him on that date to make up
the £10. Here again there is an error ; " Easter" should be "Michaelmas," as
appears by the entry of 1st March, 1396, No. 259.

.
320 CHAUCER takes seisin for Bollard. Loans to CHAUCER. 1396-7.

Hugonem de Middelton', et Joh«?mem Fox, attornatos meos
coniunctim et diuisim ad capiendwm et recipiendwm pro me et nomine
meo plenaraara seisinam et possessionem de toto Manerio vocato1
Spitelcombe, cum suis periinenciis, ac de duob?*s molendinis aquaticis
et omnibus aliis terris, tenementis, redditibws, et seruiciis, simul cum
pratis, pascuis, pastures, aquis, piscanYs, wardis, releuiis, eschaetis,
et ceteris suis periinenciis^ iurib?^, et eommoditatibws quibtweumqtw in
Combe, vocata Westcombe et Spitelcombe, et in villis de Estgrene-
\vich', Cherleton', Whrytelmerssh', et Depford', in Comitatu Kanct>,
ac eciam de quatuor acris, tribws rodis, et tresdecim perticatis te?Ter
cum fossatis et alijs suis pertinency's eidem terre adiaeentibws in
Hornemerssh', in parochia de Estgrenewych', in Comitatu predtcfo,
velut ex feoffamento Domini Thome de Arundell', Dei gract'a Ebora-
censis Archiep«sco/>i, Anglie Primatis, et Apostolice sedis legati,
aecitndum vim, formam, et effec^wm carte sue inde michi facte. In
cuius rei testimoniutw sigillum meu?/i presentibws apposui. Datum
sexto die Aprih's, anno Domini M.il\esimo CCCmo nonagesimo sexto,
et regni Regis ~Ricardi sec?^di post conquestum Angk'e decimo nono.
Et memorandum, quod predicfne Gregorius venit in Cancellartawi
Regis apud Westmonasterium, primo die Maij anno present! , et
recognouit scriptuw predictum et omr»ia contenta in eodem in forma

261.

1396, Dec. 25. — Loan of £IQ to Chaucer on account of Ms annuity.

[This loan is referred to in No. 263, but the Issue Rolls for Michaelmas
term, 20 Ric, IL, are wanting.]

262.

1397, July 2 and Aug. 9. — Two loans of 100s. eacli to CJiaucer, on
account of his annuity, one by the hands of Richard Odyliam.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 20 Rie. II. ]
§ Die Lune, secimdo die Julij.

Galfrido Chaucere, cui Dominus Rex nunc xxli. annw#s ad
Scaecanum ad totam vitam suam, ad te?-minos Sancti MichaeZis et
Pasche per equales poiciones percipiendas, pro bono se?*uicio per ipswm
eidem D&mino Regi impcnso et impendendo, per kYeras suas patentes
concessit : In denarm sibi liberate, per &S8ignadonem fac^am isto
die, per manus Eicardfc* Odyham,1 de prestito super huiusmodi certo
suo ............... , ..... Cs. ; vnde

Respondebit.

[Ibid.}

§ Die Jouis, ix° die Augusti.

GalfhWo Chauncer, cui Dominua Rex nunc xx li. annwos ad
Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancti Michaelis et

1 This assignment was made on Henry Cokeham and Richard Odyham,
Collectors of Subsidies in the Port of London. — Receipt Roll, same date.

1397-8. CHAUCER paid £10; sued, and ordered to be arrested. 321

Pasche per equales porciVmes peroipiendas, pro bono seruicio per
ipsum eidem Domino Regi impenso et impendendo, per h'feras suas
patentes voncessit : In denam> sibi liberate, per manus proprias, de
p?-estito super Inuiusmodi cer to suo ... ... ... ... C s>

263.

1397, Oct. 26.— Payment to Chaucer of £10, Me balance of his
annuity for three half-years.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 21 Ric. II., m. 0. Nicolas, note X.]
§ Die Veneris, xxvjto die Octobm.

Galfr/tZus } Galfr/Wo Chauncer, cui Dommua Rex nunc xx li.
Chauncer. / armuas ad Scoccartwm, ad totam vitam suam, ad
tenmnos Sancti Michae/is et Pasche per equales
porciones pe?*cipi endow, pro bono se?-uicio per ipsum. eidem Domino
Regi impenso et impendendo, per h'feros suas patentes concessif : In
denama sibi libe?*ato',<?, per manus Johannis Walden',per assignaczowem
sibi ftearn isto die, in persolucz'orcem xxxte li. sibi liberandarww de
\\M\usmodi certo suo, videlicet, pro terminis MichaeZis et Pasche,
anno xx°, et termino Sancti MichaeZis vltimo prete?*ito, deductis
vero xx li. sibi Iibe?*ati5 de prestito super "hmtismodi cerfco suo,
videh'cet, xxvto die Decembn's vltimo preterito x li., et aecundo
die Julij tune proxi?wo sequente C s., et ix° die Augusti tune proximo
sequente Cs., per brewe suu??i de libe?*ate, inter mandato de hoc
termino ... ... ... ... ... ... ... x li.

264.

1398, April 24 — May 20. — Action of Debt in the Common Pleas by
Isabella, widow and administratrix of Walter Bukholt, Esquire,
against Geoffrey Chaucer, Esquire, for 14/. Is. Ik?., and against
John Goodale of Milleford, for 121. 8s. The Sheriff of Middle
sex returns that they have nothing [in his bailiiviclc\, and he is
ordered to arrest them.1

[De Banco Roll, Easter, 21 Ric. II., m. 368 d.]

MicldZeseo^'a. — § Isabella Bukholt, administratrix bonorwft et
catallorww que fuerunt Walteri Bukholt, Armigeri, qui obijt intes-

1 This and the other two entries relating to the action against Chaucer were
alluded to in the Athenaeum of Sept. 13, 1879, p. 338, on the authority of Mr.
Selby and Mr. Greenstreet. but no references were given ; even the name of the
Court was not specified. Heuce it has been necessary to look through many
hundreds of long membranes, and at length this and the other entries were
discovered by Mr. E. F. Kirk, who could not find any further reference to the
matter in Hilary term, 1399. The allusion in the Athenaeum to " Trinity ^tenn,
1399," appears to be a mistake, as no entry of this action could be found in the
roll for that term ; probably Trinity term, 1398, was meant ; but we may take
it for granted that the action did not come to a trial, as Mr. Greenstreet
evidently searched several later tennsyWithout finding any result.

322 CHAUCER to be arrested. His letters of Protection from Ric. II.

tatns, vt dicitwr, per attornafom SUU?H, optulit se iiij*0 die versus
GalfnWwm Chaucere, Ararigerum, de placito quod reddat ei quatuor-
decim libras ei viginti et tres denarios, et versus Johaw?em Goodale,
de Milleford', de placito qwod reddat ei decem ei octo marcas et octo
solidos, quos ei iniuste detinent etc. Et ipsi non veniunt. Et
preceptum fuit Vicecomiti, quod swmmoneret eo& etc. Et "Vicecomes
modo m&ndat, quod nichil haoent etc. Ideo preceptum est 'Vicecojniti,
quod capiat eos si etc., et saluo etc., ita quod haoeat corpora eomm
hie a die Sa«cfe Trinitatis in xv. dies etc.

265.

1398, May 4. — Royal protection for Chaucer, who has been appointed
by the King to attend to many urgent affairs, but fears to be
hindered by plaints or suits ; to last for two years.
[Patent Roll, 21 Ric. II., p. 3, m. 26. Rymer, viii. 39 ; Godwin, App. xxiv.]
Pro GalfreWo \ Re#, Omnibus Balliuis et fidelibws suis ad quos etc.,
Chaucer. / sal^tem. Sciatis, qwod cum dilectfwm Armigerum
nostrum Galfr/Wum Chaucer ad qwamplura ardua et
vrgencia negocia nosfra, tarn in absencia quam presencia no^ris, in
diuersis partibz«^ infra regnum no^wm Angh'e facienda et expedienda
ordinauerimws, idemqwe Galfr/tZus timeat se per quosdam emulos
suos per qwamplures querelas siue sectas dum sic negociis nosfris
intenderit inquietari, molestari, siue implacitari, et nobis supplicauerit,
vt sibi in hac parte subuenire velinms : Nos, volentes pro securitate
ipsius Galfrwft prospicere grac/ose, Suscepimus ip^wm Galfr/^um, ac
homines, terras, res, redditus, et omwes possessiones suas, in protec-
cionern et defensionem nosfras epect'ales ; Nolentes qwod ipse a data
presencium pe?* duos annos integros ad cuiuscumqwe persone sectam
nullaten!^ arestetwr seu aliqualiter implacitetwr, set qwod ipse de
omraimodis placitis et querelis, placitis terre dumtaxat exceptis, per
tempus predi'c^m om«ino sit quietus. Et ideo vobu1 mandamus,
quod ipsurn GalfrtWum, homines, terras, res, redditus, et onwea
possessiones suas manuteneatis, protegatis, et defendatis, iuxta vim,
formam, et effectum presenciu??i Itteraxuni noshaYum ] Non inferentes
eis, seu quantum in vob^ est ab aliis inferri permittentes, iniuriam,
molestiam, dampnum, violenciam, impedimentu??^ aliquod seu
grauamen. Et si quid eis forisf«c£wm siue iniuriatum fuerit, id eis
sine dilactone debite corrigi et emendari f&ciatis. In cuius etc. , per
bienniura duraturas. Teste Rege, apud Wesimo?iasterium, quarto
die Maij. Per ipswm Regem.

266.

1398, June 4 — Aug. 23. — Payments to Chaucer on account of his
annuity, the first by the hand,s of William Waxcombe.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 21 Ric. II., m. 8. Nicolas, note Y.]

1398. Payments to CHAUCER of his Annuity of £20. 323

§ Die Martis, quarto die Junij.

GalfhWus "1 GalfhVZo Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx li. annuas
Chauncer. / ad Scoccanum ad totam vitam suam, ad tenninos Sancti
Michae/is et Pasche per equales porciones percipiendos,
pro bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Regi impenso et impen-
dendo, per U'feras suas patentes concern^ : In denariis sibi liberates,
per manus Willelmi Waxcombe, in persoluciottein xli. sibi liber-
andarum de Imiusmodi certo suoy videlicet, pro termwo Pasche
proximo preterite, per brewe suum de libe?-ate, inter mandate de hoc
termi«o ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xli.

[Ibid., in. IB.]

§ Die MercimJ, xxiiij*0" die Julij.

GalfnWus 1 Galfree/o Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx li. aimuas
Chaucer. / ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancti
MichoeZis et Pasche per equales porciones percipiendos,
pra bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Regi impenso et impen-
dendo, per hYeras euas patentes concessit : In denariis sibi liberate,
per uianus proprni^, de prestito super hui^??zo^' certo suo ...

vj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondebit.

[Ibid., m. 14.]
§ Die Mercuri)', xxxj. die Julij.

Qralfrido | GalfnWo Chauncer, cui Domiuua Rex nunc xx li.
Chauncer. / &nnuas ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad
termi?/os Sancti Mich^eZis et Pasche per equales
porciones percipiendas, p?*o bono seruicio per ips?«n eidem Do??2/no
Regi impenso et impeadew(?o, per literals su is patentes conce^stY : In
denam's sibi liberate, per manus propnos, de prestito super huiusmodi
certo suo ... ... ... ... .. vjs. viijd. ; vnde

Respondebit.

[Ibid., m. 15.]
§ Die Veneris, xxiij0 die August/.

GalfrtWus \ Galfr^o Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx li. annuos
Chauncer. / ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancti
MichaeZis et Pusche per equales porciones percipiendos,
p?-o bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Regi impenso et impen-
dendo, per h'/eras suas patentes conces^Y : In denam's sibi liberates,
per manus proprias, de prestito super huiwswoefo' ce?*to suo ...

vj s. viij d. ; vnde
Respondebit.

[Ibid., m. 16 ; same day.]

GalfMus 1 GalfrzWo Chaucer, cui Dominus Rex nunc xx li. annwas

Chaucer. / ad Sc^ccar^m ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancti

Michaels et Pasche per equales porci'o/ies percipienda*-,

324 CHAUCER in debt. He is to be arrested or outlawed. 1398.

pro bono seruicio per ipsz/m eidein Domino Regi impenso et impen-
dendo, per k'feras suas patentes concessit : In denam's sibi liberal^,
per manus proprios, de prestito super hmusmodi certo suo ...

Cvj s. viij d. ; vnde
Eespondebit.

267.

1398, June 12 — July 4. — Action of Debt by Isabella Bukholt against
Chaucer and Goodale. Tine, Sheriff returns that they have not
been found, and it is ordered that they be arrested.

[De Banco Boll, Trin., 21—22 Ric. II., m. 431 d.]

Widdlesexia. — § Isabella Bokholt, administratrix bonortm et catal-
lorum que fuer?w£ Walter! Bokholt, Armigeri, qui obijt intestates, vt
dicitwr, per attornafttm suum, optulit se iiijto die versus Galfr^wm
Chaucere, Armigerura, de placito quod reddat ei quatuordecim
libras, viginti et tres denarios, et versus Johcm;iein Goodale, de
Miiletbrd', de placito quod reddat ei decem et octo niarcas et octo
solidos, quos ei debent, et iniuste detinent etc. Et ipsi non veniunt.
Et sicut prius preceptum fuit Vicecomiti, quod, cap^ret eos etc. Et
Vicecowes modo mandcwf, quod non sunt inuenti etc. Ideo, sicut
plur/e^, capiant^^r, quod sint hie a die Sancti MichaeZis in xv dies efc.

268.

1398, Oct. 9— Nov. 28. — Action of Debt by Isabella Bukholt against
Chaucer and Goodale. The Sheriff returns that they have not
been found, and he is ordered to put them in exigent till they are
outlawed, if not found.

[De Banco Roll, Mich., 22 Ric. II., m. 228.]

MiddZesma. — § Isabella Bukholt, administratrix bonomw et
catallorw?/i que fuer«??£ Walteri Bukholt, Armigeri, qui obijt in-
testatws etc., per attornatum suu??i, optulit se iiijto die versus Ct&lfridum
Chaucere, Armig6?*um, de placito quod reddat ei quatuordecim libras,
viginti et tres denartes, et versus Joha/wem Goodale, de Milleford',
de plactto q?/od reddah ei decem et octo marcas et octo solidos, quos
ei iniuste detinent etc. Et ipsi non veniunt. Et sicut pluries pre-
ceptum fuit Vicecomiti, quod caperet eos, si etc., et saluo etc., itaqwod
hafteret corpora eoium hie ad hunc diem, scilecet, a die Sancti
Michrte/is in xv dies etc. Et Vicecomes modo manda£, quod non
sunt inuenti e^c. Tdeo preceptum est Vicecom^Y^', quod exigi fac^rt^
eos de Comitatu in Comitatum quousqwe etc., vtlage?«tz/r, sinoii etc.,
et si etc., tune eos capiat, et saluo e£c.,itaqwod ha&eat corpo?-a eomni
hie in Octabis Sancte Trinitatis. Et vnde e^c.1

1 No later entry of this action has been found ; see No. 264.

1398. CHAUCER granted a Butt of Wine a y 'ear , for his life. 325

269.

[1398,] Oct. 13. — Petition by Chaucer to the King, asking for the
grant of a butt of wine yearly to be received in the Port of
London, by the hands of the Chief Butler.

[Warrants, Chancery, series I., file 1394.]

Ista billa concessa est per Dominum Regem apud Westmonasterium,
terciodecimo die Octobm.

Plese a nostre tressouerain seignur le Roy granter a vostre humble
lige Geffrey Chaucer voz graciouses Je^res patentes desouz vostre
grand seal pur prendre vn tonel de vin chescun an durante sa vie en
port de [vostre] Citee de Londres par les mains de vostre chief
Eutiller qore est et qui pur le temps serra ; lui quel tonel de vin vous
lui grantastez de vostre grace especa'ale en le moys de Decembre de
Ian de vostre regne vingt et primer ; pur Dieu et en oeure de
charitee.1

270.

1398, Oct. 13. — Grant to Chaucer of a butt of wine yearly, as above.
[Patent Roll, 22 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 5. Rymer, viii. 61.]

Pro Galfrirfo \ Hex, Ommbws ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis, qwod

Chaucer. / de gratia nostra, speczali concessimus dilecfo Armige?*o

nostro Gulfrido Chaucer vnum dolium vini per-

cipiendwtfz singulis annis durante vita sua in portu Ciuitatis nostre

Londom'e, per manus Capitalis Pincerne uostri pro tempore existentis.

In cuius eto. Teste Rege, apud Weskmonosterium, xiij. die Octobm-.

Per ipswm Rege?)i.

271.

1398, Oct. 15. — Another grant of the same, with the addition of
words, making the Chief Butler's deputy responsible.

[Patent Roll, 22 Ric. II. , p. 1, m. 8. Godwin, App. xxv.]

~Pro GrBlfrido \ Hex, Om??ibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Sciatis,
Chaucer, Armigero.J qwod de graa'a nosfra specz'ali concessimus
dilec/o Armigero no^ro GalfnWo Chaucer
vnum dolium vini pmnpiend^m singulis annis a primo die Decembr^
vltimo preterito durante vita sua in portu Ciuitatis nosfre Londonz'e,
per manus Capitalis Pincerne nostn, seu deputati sui ibidem, pro
tempore existentis. In cuius etc. Teste Hege, apud Wesimona-
sterium, xv. die Octobrt's.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

1 This Bill is quoted in Mr. Selby's letter to the Athenaeum, Jan. 28, 1888,
p. 116. He doubted whether it is in Chaucer's own hand.

326 Loans to CHAUCER, and Payment of his Annuity. 1398-9.

272.

1398, Oct. 28. — Loan of <£10 to Chaucer on account of his annuity.

[Issue Roll, Mich,, 22 Ric. II., m. 3. Nicolas, note Z.j
Die Lune, xxviij0 die Octobm.

Galfn'fius \ GalfraWo Chaucer, cui Dominus Hex nuric xx li. annwas
Chaucer. / ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos sancti
Michae/is et Pasche per equales porciones percipiendas,
pro bono seruicio per ipsnm eidem Domino Regi impenso et
impendent, per h^eras suas patentee concessit : In denam's sibi
liberate, per manus proprias, de prestito super huiusmodi certo suo,
videlicet, pro termino Pasche prox?'?»o future, per brez^e suuw de
liberate, inter mandata hoc termino ... ... ... xli. ; vnde

Respondebit.

273.

1399, March 20. — Grant to Thomas Chaucer of an annuity of 20
marks.

(Patent Roll, 22 Ric. II., p. 2, m. 7.]

The King grants to Thomas Chaucer, Esquire, 20 marks yearly,
in recompense for certain offices [not described] which he lately had
by grant of the King's uncle, John, late Duke of Aquitaine and
Lancaster, and which are now granted by the King to William
Lescrop, Earl of Wilts ; to receive the same for term of his life, out
of the farm of the King's town of Walyngford. Dated 20th
March.2

274.

1399, April 26 and July 9.— Payments to Chaucer of 11. 16s. Sd.
and 43s. 4d. in full discharge of his annuity due at Easter
last ; and a loan of 13s. &d. on account.

[Issue Roll, Easter, 22 Ric. II., m. 3J
§ Die Sabbati, xxvjto die Aprilis.

Galfh'dus } GalfhWo Chauncer, scutifero, cui Doww'nws Rex nunc
Chauncer. / x li. annwas ad Scaccarmm ad totam vitam suam
percipiendas, pro bono seruicio per ipswm eidem
Domino Regi impenso, per k'feras suas patentes nuper concerf : In
denarm sibi liberates, per manus propreas, in partem soluc^oms x li.
sibi liberandarM??t de huiusmodi certo suo, videlicet, p?'o termino
Pasche vltimo preterite, per brezte suuwt de liberate, inter mandotfa de
hoc termino ... ... ... ... ... vij li. xvj s. viij d.

1 The entry says it was due at "Easter next," but it seems to have been due
at the Michaelmas preceding.

2 His petition for this grant is in Chancery Warrants, series I., file 1394.

1399. Henry IV.'s grant to CHAUCER of 40 Marl's a year. 327

[Ibid., m. 13.]

§ Die Hercura/, ix° die Julij.

GalfnWus } GalfhWo Chaucer, cui Domirma Rex nunc xx li. annuas
Chaucer. / ad Scaccarium ad totam vitam suam, ad terminos Sancti
MichaeZis et Pasche et Pasche (sic) per equales porciones
percipiendos, pro bono seruicio per ipswm eidem Domino Regi
impenso et impendewefo, per hYeras suas patentes concessit : In
denarii* sibi liberate, per manus proprias, in persoluceoraem x li. sibi
liberandi* de huiwswodi certo suo, videlicet, pro termino Pasche
vltimo preterite, per brewe suu?» de liberate, inter mandate de hoc
termino xliijs. iiijd.

Eidem GalfnV/o : In denam* sibi liberat/s, per manus propr/o^,
de prestito super huiwmodi certo suo ... xiij s. iiij d. ; vnde
Respondebit.

275.

1399, Oct. 13. — Grant by Henry IV. to CJiaucer, for good service
rendered to tlie new King, of an annuity of 40 marks, in addition
to the £20 given him by Richard II.1

[Patent Roll, 1 Hen. IV., p. 5, m. 12. Godwin, App. xxvi.]
Pro GalfhVZo \ Re#, Ommbus ad quos etc. salwtem. Sciatis, qwod de
Chaucer. / gracia. nosrfra spec tali et pro bono seruicio quod
dilectus Armiger noster GalfhWus Chaucer nob/*
impendit et impendet, concessimi^? eidem Galfr /^o quadraginta marcas
pe?-cipienda*v siugulis annis durante vita sua ad Scaccarium nostfrwm,
ad terminos Pasche et Sancti MichaeZis pe>* equales porctowes, vltra
illas viginti libras sibi per Dominum 'Ricardum, nuper Regem
Angh'e secM«d?/ra post Conquestum, concessas, et per nos confirmatas,
percipiendas durante vita sua ad Scaccarium nostrum suprad^ctfwm.
In cuius etc. Teste l&ege, apud Westmonasterium, xiij. die Octobri*.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

276.
1399, Oct. 16.— A grant to Thomas Chaucer.

[Patent Roll, 1 Hen. IV., p. 1, m. 27.]

The King grants to his beloved Esquire, Thomas Chaucer, the
office of Constable of the Castle of Walyngford, for term of his life.
Dated 16th October.

277.

1399, Oct. 18. — Confirmation by Henry IV. to Chaucer of Richard
II.'s two patents of 20 marks and a butt of wine yearly (Nos. 250
and 270), he having accidentally lost the original patents.

1 He does not appear to have received any benefit from this grant, as there
are no payments of this annuity on the Issue Rolls ; hut he continued to
receive Richard II.'s annuity. It may he noted that the last day of that King's
reign was the 29th Sept.

328 Henry IV. confirms CHAUCER'S Annuities and Wine-grant. 1399.

[Patent Roll, 1 Hen. IV., p. 1, m. 18. Rymer, viii. 94 ; Godwin,
App. xxvii.]

'Pro GalfhWo \ Hex, Omnibiis ad quos etc. , salwtem. Constat nobt's pe r
Chaucer. / inspecczorcem rotulorw??^ Cancellane 'Domini 'RicanU,
nuper Regis Angh'e secundi post Conquestum, q?*od
idem nuper Rex hYeras suas patentes fieri fecit in hec ve?*ba :
Ricardus, Dei gracia Rex Angh'e e£ Tranche, e£ Dowmus Hibernie.
Ommbws ad quos presentes hYere peruenerint, sal?<tem. Sciatis [etc.
See No. 250, ante.] In cuius rei testimonium has ItYeras nostras fieri
fecimus patentee Teste me ipso, apud Wesimonasterium, vicesimo
octauo die Febrwzri/, anno regni nos^ri decimo septimo. Constat
eciam nobz's per inspeccio%em rotulomwi Cancellart'e eiusdem nuper
Regis, qwod idem nuper Rex alias kYeras suas patentes fieri fecit in
hec verba : Ricardus, Dei gratia, Rex Angh'e et Frances, et Dominus
Hiberni'e, Om?dbws ad quos p?*esentes \itere pemenerint, salwtem.
Sciatis [etc. See No. 270, ante]. In cuius rei testimonium lias
l#eras nosfras fieri fecimus patentes. Teste me ipso, apud West-
monasterium, terciodecimo die Octobris, anno regni no.sfri vicesimo
secwwdo. Nos, pro eo qwod idem Galfr/^as, coram nobi's in
Cancellan'a no^^ra personaliter constitutus, sacra/tte/^rn p?4estitit
corporale, quod \itere predicts casualiter sunt amisse, tenorem
irrotulamenti ear^Tidem liter&rum duximus exemplificandw?^ per
p?*esentes. In cuius etc. Teste Rege, apud Weshnonasterium, xviij.
die Octobn's.

278.

1399, Oct. 21. — Inspeximus and confirmation of the preceding
confirmation.

[Patent Roll, 1 Hen. IV., p. 1, m. 8.]

^ \ Rex, Omnibus ad quos etc., salwtem. Inspeximus
De confir- ( quasdam Itferas nos^ras patentea quas nuper fieri
mactowe. f fecimus in hec verba : Henricus, Dei gracz'a Rex
Chaucer.1 ) Angh'e et Francte, et Dommus Hibernie, Omwibw^ ad
quos presentes leVere peruen^rint, sah^tem. Constat
[etc., as in No. 277, reciting the two grants of Richard //.] In cuius
rei testimonium has hYeras nos/ras fieri fecimus patentes. Teste me
ipso, apud Westmonasterium, decimo octauo die Octobm, anno regni
nostri primo. Nos autem, concessiones p/rd^cfas ratas ha&entes et
gratas, eas pro nobis et heredib^s nostr/s, quantu??i in nobe's est,
acceptamus, approbamus, et prefato GalfhVfo tenore presencium de
gract'a nostra, spect'ali confirmamus, p/'out hYere predicts ractonabiliter
testantwr. In cuius etc. Teste Re^/e, apud Westmonosterium, xxj.
die Octobm.

Per brewe de priuato sigillo.

1 The cross appears to indicate that no fees were charged.

1399. Lease to CHAUCER of a Westminster Abbey tenement* 329

279.

1399, Oct. 23 and 26. — Two grants to Thomas Chaucer.
[Patent Roll, 1 Hen. IV., p. 1, m. 10.]

The King inspects and confirms letters patent of 20 March 22
Ric. II., granting to Thomas Chaucer twenty marks yearly out of
the farm of the town of Walyngford, for term of his life. Dated
23rd October.

[Ibid., m. 27.]

The King grants to Thomas Chaucer the office of Constable of
his Castle of Walyngford, and the office of Steward of the Honor of
Walyngford and St. Walery and of the Four Hundreds and a half,
with forty pounds a year, for term of his life. Dated 26th October.

280.

1399, Dec. 24.— Lease by the Warden of St. Mary's Chapel, in
Westminster Abbey, to Chaucer, of a tenement situate in the
garden of the Chapel, for 53 years, at the yearly rent of 53s. 4d. ;
terminable at Chaucer's death. The lessee covenants to repair,
and not to sublet, nor to harbour any one having claims against
the Abbey, without the Warden's licence.

[Muniments of Westminster Abbey. Godwin, App. xxviii.]
Hec indentwra facta apud Westuionasterium, iu Vigilia Natah*
Domini, Anno regnt Regis Henrici q^a-rti post conquestu??i pr/mo,
testator, quod F rater Roberta* Hermodesworth', Cowimonachus et
Gustos Capelle beate Marie Wsstmonasterij, ex vnanimi assensu et
consensu Domini Abbafts, Prioris, et Conuentws Westmonasterij
predicti, concessit, dimisit, et ad firmam tradidit Galfrido Chaucers,
Armigero, vnu??i tenementuw, cuwi suis pertinencijs, situatww in
gardino Capelle predicts : Habendum et tenendw?ft tenementum
prediction, cum suis pertinency's, eidem Q&lfrido a vigilta NataU's
Domini predicti vsqwe ad finera et terminum quiwqwaginta et trmni
snnoTum extu?zc proximo sequenciura et plenarie compleiorum :
Reddendo inde aimuatim Custodi Capelle predicts qui pro tempore
fuerit, seu eius certo attorna/o, ad quatuor anni ierminoa vsuales
equaliter, quiwq^aginta tres solidos et quatuor den&rios ste?*lingorwm.
Et si dt'c^a firma q?*mquaginta triwn solidorwm et qwatuor denartorwm
ad alique??& terminum quo solui debeat in parte vel in toto per
qui?ideci??z dies aretro fuerit non soluta, tune bene liceat Custodi
Capelle predicts qui pro tempore fuerit, aut eius attornafo, in dicto
tenemento, cum pertinencijs, distringe?fe, et districcio?ies captas
abducere, asportare, et penes se retinere, quousqwe de dict& firma et
arre^ag^/s eiusdem, sique fuerint, sibi pleriane fuerit satisfac^Mm.
Et si nulla suniciens districcio in dicto tenemento, cum pertinencijs,
inueniri poterit, qwod tu?ic bene licebit Custodi di'cfe Capelle qui pro

LIFE-RECORDS, IV. 22

330 1399. Lease to CHAUCER of a Westminster Abbey tenement.

tempore f umt in dec/Mm tenementum, cum suis pertineneijs, reintrare,
e£ in pristine statu suo tenere, presentibws indeftturis non obstantibw.?.
Et diet us Galfridws tenementum predictum, cwn suis pertinency's,
sumptibie* et cwtubus suis propn'is durante dictfo termino sustentabit,
repwabit, ac manutenebit, et illud in adeo bono statu et reparatu quo
in prmcipio recepit, seu meliori, Custodi eiusdem Capelle qui pro
ternpore fuerit in fine termini sui pred^cft sursum liberabit et diim'ttet.
Et non licebit predicto G&lfrido tenementum predict um, nee aliqwa?^
parcellam eiusdem, infra idem tempws alicui dirm'ttere seu ad firmaw
tradere, nee aliquew prtuilegia et libertates seu iwmiwitates ecclesie
Westmonasterij predicts petentem in eodem tenemerato recipe-re seu
hospitare, sine licencia Custodis dicte Capelle qui pro tempore fuerit
et Sacriste Westmonasterij predicti speciali. Et si di'c^us Galfridw^
infra tempos prediction, obierit, tune bene licebit Custodi Capelle pre-
dz'cfe qui pro tempore fuerit in dz'c^m teiiementum, cum suis
pertinency's, statiw post obitu??i eiusdem Galfridi reintrare, et in
pristino statu suo tenere, presentib^s indenturis non obstantib?/s. In
cuius rei testimoniu??* tarn sigillum Yratria lloberti, Custody's,
pred^'cfi Officij sui quo vtitur, quom sigilluw* prede'c^i Galfridi
partibus presentis indenture alfcernatini suut appensa. Datum loco,
die, et Anno supmdictts.1

[The seal is gone. Ancient endorsements, the second in red ink :]

(1) Indenture inter Custodew Capelle et Q&lfridum Chaucers pro

domo capeZ/e.

(2) Juxto Capellam. Firma, la (sic).

1 There are four copies of this lease in the Rawlinson MSS. In calendaring
the muniments of Westminster Abbey, Mr. Edward Scott, of the British
Museum, has discovered sundry later accounts referring to this tenement,
which was afterwards in the tenure of Thomas Chaucer. In the Sacrist's
Account Rolls of 1—2 Henry VI. there is a payment of 26s. 8d. "to the
Warden of the Chapel of St. Mary for the house of Thomas Chauceres," and this
payment is continued [half] yearly till 1434, when the entry is cancelled, which
fact establishes this Thomas's identity with the Chief Butler, who died in that
year. These entries were commented on by Prof. Skeat in the Athcnceum, Jan.
27, 1900, p. 116, and he came to the conclusion that " this proves clearly that a
certain Thomas Chaucer, doubtless the poet's son, inherited his father's house,
and regularly paid the rent for it."

Mr. Scott, in a letter to me, adds : "I find that Thomas Chaucer paid a rent
of 66s. Sd. [26s. 8d. ?] for a tenement with a garden in the Sanctuary near the
Chapel, from A.D. 1413 to A.D. 1434. This tenement exactly answers to
Geoffrey Chaucer's tenement leased by him in 1399, and the payments cease, as
in the Sacrist's Rolls, the very year in which the Chief Butler died ; a further
striking proof that he was Geoffrey's son."

As, however, the lease to Geoffrey was for term of his life only, it is clear
that Thomas could not have inherited under it, and therefore we have no proof
here that he was Geoffrey's heir, or that he was his son. Thomas must have
had a fresh lease ; but the fact of his succeeding Geoffrey in the occupation of
this tenement certainly tends to establish some relationship.

Payments to CHAUCER of his Annuity up to March 31, 1400. 331

281.

1400, Feb. 21. — Half-yearly payment to Chaucer of Richard Il.'s
annuity of £20 ; due at Michaelmas last.

[Issue Roll, Mich., 1 Hen. IV., ra. 10. Nicolas, note AA.]
§ Die Sabbrttfi, xxj° die February.

GalfhVius \ GalfoWo Chauncer, cui Dominus Ricardus, nuper Eex
Chauncer. / AngKe Sec/wdus post Conquestww, xx li. annuas ad
Scacc&rium. ad totam vitani suam, ad terminos Sancti
MichrteZis et Pasche per equales pore /owes percipiendas, per hVeras
suas patentes concessit, quas quidem 1/feras ~Domimts Rex mine
confirmauit, vna cum sureragiis super dicta, annuitate debits vsqwe
in confirmaczcwem earawdem : In denams per ipsum receptzs de pre-
dicto Hennco [Somer, Clerico],1 per man us Nicho/«i Vsk, Thesawrary
Cales^e, in persoluceowem xli. sibi aretro existencium de \\musmodi
certo suo, videlicet, pro termino Sancti Mich«e?is vltimo p?•eter^Yo,
quas Dominus Rex sibi liberare mandauit, \\abendas de dono suo,pe?-
brewe de pr/uato sigillo, inter m&ndata de hoc termino ... x li.

282.

1400, June 5.— Payment of 100*'., part of 81. 13s. 5d. dm on
Chaucer's .£20 annuity, from the date of Henry IV. 's
confirmation

[Issue Roll, Easter, 1 Hen. IV., m. 6. Nicolas, note BB.]
Die Sabhatf, quinto die Junij.

Galfr«V7us 1 Galfr^V7o Chauncer, armigero, cui Dowmws Iticardus,
Chauncer. J nuper Rex Ang^'e Sec?mdus, xx li. arniM«s ad Scacea,rium
ad totam vitam suam percipiendas, pro bono seruicio pe>'
ips^ni eidem Domino Regi impenso, per ]^7eras suas patentes nuper
concessit, quas quidem kVeras Dominua Rex nunc xxj° die Octobr/s
proximo p?*eterito confirmauit et ratificauit, h abendos in forma
predict* : In denariis sibi liberat/s, per manus Henrici Somere, in
p«rtem solucionis viij li. xiij s. v d. sibi Kberandarwm de Imiusmod'i
certo suo, videh'cet, pro rata a predtc^o xxj° die Octobr^s vsqwe
vltimu??^ diem Marcij proximo sequen/ew, per bre?«e suu?« de liberate
inter mandata de hoc termmo C s.

283.

1400, June 5. — Warrant for payment to Thomas Chaucer of his
annuity of £20 out of the Duchy of Lancaster?

1 One of the Barons of the Exchequer, 1407.

2 No payment was made for the days between 29th Sept. and 21st Octobor.

3 See No. 273.

332 Gascoigm's Nonsense about CHAUCER on 1m Death-bed.

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 15, f. 61 b. Register of Henry IV.1]
Warrant by Henry IV. , as Duke of Lancaster, to Simon Bache,
Receiver of the Honor of Leicester, to pay the King's well beloved
Esquire, Thomas Chaucer, ten pounds, being the arrears of his
annuity of twenty pounds due at Easter last, out of the issues of the
said Honor. Dated at York, 5th June, in the first year.

284.

1400, Oct. 25. 2 — A theologian's mistaken story of the death-bed
repentance of Geoffrey Chaucer ; with a statement that he icas
father of Thomas Chaucer.

[Gascoigne's Theological Dictionary, a MS. in the library of Lincoln
College, Oxford.3]

Gascoigne, writing of " too-late repentances," after alluding to the
case of Judas Iscariot, continues : —

Sic plures penitere se postea dicunt, quando mala sua et mala per
eos inducta destruere non possunt ; sicut Chawserus ante mortem
suam sepe clamavit, " Ve michi ! ve michi ! quia revocare nee
destruere jam potero ilia que male scripsi de malo et turpissimo
amore hominum ad mulieres, et jam de homine in hominem con-
tin uabuntur. Velini ! Nolim ! " Et sic plangens mortuus. Fuit
idem Chawserus pater Thome Chawserus, armigeri, qui Thomas
sepelitur in Nuhelm [Ewelme], juxta Oxoniam.4

285.

1403, June 5. — Tlie King renews the annuity of 20Z. granted by John
of Gaunt to Thomas Chaucer at Bayonne, where the Duke
retained him for life.

1 This Register contains a grant by Henry IV. to his "well beloved mother,
Katherine, Duchess of Lancaster," of certain manors (f. 8 d.) ; and a confirmation
to her of a house in Lynn, given her by John of Gaunt, who purchased it from
John de Wesenham (f. 14 d.).

2 The date of Chaucer's death, as given on Chaucer's tomb, erected by
Nicholas Bigham in 1556. — Nicolas, Life, pp. 42, 43.

3 This passage was referred to in Fuller's Worthies and Chalmers' Biographical
Dictionary, and was first published in full in the Athenaeum, March 31, 1888,
p. 404, in a long letter by Prof. Hales on the subject. Gascoigne was Chancellor
of Oxford in 1434 (the year of Thomas Chaucer's death), 1442, 1443, and 1445,
and died in 1458. As to Chaucer's alleged remorse, Prof. Hales quotes a
paragraph at the end of the Canterbury Tales, headed, " Preces de Chauceres."
Prof. Skeat thinks the story is based on the same final paragraph of the
' ' Persones Tale, " and that ' ' a quite unfair turn " is given to the poet's own words
(pp. 1, li). See also Nicolas, Life, pp. 55-57, 67.

4 Here it will be convenient to notice the following remarks by Mr. Henry
Troutbeck, Coroner for Westminster: "I had the privilege of examining
Chaucer's bones when they were exposed in the digging of Browning's
grave some years back. From measurements of the principal long bones
remaining intact, I calculated that his [Chaucer's] height must have been about
five feet six inches."— Nineteenth Century, August, 1897, last page. — F. J. F.

1403. THOMAS c.'s Annuity renewed. He uses CHAUCER'S Seal. 333

[Duchy of Lancaster Registers, vol. 15, pt. 2, f. 5 b.]
Letters patent of Henry IV., reciting that his honoured father
[John of Gaunt] formerly by his letters patent indented, which he
has confirmed, retained the King's very dear Esquire, Thomas
Chaucer, at Bayonne, to remain with him for term of his life, and
for that cause granted him an annuity of 107. for life out of the
issues of the Honor of Leicester, by the hands of the Receiver there ;
and afterwards the King's said father, by other letters patent, which
he has also confirmed, granted to the said Thomas other 101. -yearly
out of the said Honor; and now the said Honor is so greatly sur
charged with annuities that Thomas cannot obtain payment of his
"annuity" or its arrears. The King — considering the good and
agreeable service which the same Thomas has done and will do to
him in future, and that he has restored one of the said letters
patent to be cancelled, and has made oath that both the said letters
patent indented and the King's letters of confirmation of the same
" annuities " have been casually lost, and that he will restore them to
be cancelled if they can hereafter be found — has granted to the same
Thomas 201. to be received yearly for term of his life out of the
revenues ^of the Honor of Tuttebury, by the hands of the Receiver
there, with arrears from the death of the Kingrs father, by the hands
of the Receiver General of the Duchy : notwithstanding that he has
the office of Chief Butler by the King's grant, for which he takes
20 marks yearly from the Treasurer of the King's Household. Dated
5 June [4 Hen. IV.]

By bill signed and endorsed by the King himself.

[Later note in the margin :] Void, because they [these letters patent]
were restored.

This patent is also entered on ff. 51 b, 52 of the same Register,
without any note of vacation in the margin. On f. 52 there is an
entry of a warrant of the same date to the Receiver of the Honor of
Tuttebury to pay 201. yearly to Thomas Chaucer. On f. 53 there is
a warrant dated 25 May, 1403, to John de Leventhorp, Esquire,
Receiver General of the Duchy, to pay to Thomas Chaucer the
arrears of his annuity of 20/.

286.

1409, May 20. — The seed of Geoffrey Chaucer, used ly Thomas
Chaucer at this date.

[Ancient Deeds, DS. 79. Archceologia, xxxiv. 42.]

" This ys then tent of Thomas Chaucer, Squier," made at
Ewelme, 20th May, 10 Hen. IV., respecting a feoff inent of the
manors of Hogenorton and Cudlyngton, and lands and tenements in

334 THOMAS CHAUCER, Bp: Beaufort's Cousin. The Poet's Tomb.

other places, in the county of Oxford, and the manor of Dorton, in
the county of Buckingham.

Seal — legend : Si. Ghofrai Chavcier. Arms — parti per pale,
a bend over all. Reverse (or counter-seal) — a pelican vulning itself.1

287.

[1420,] June 6. — Letter of Bishop Beaufort, alluding to Thomas
Chaucer as his cousin.

[Facsimiles of National MSS., I., xxxvii. Deputy Keeper of Records'
Reports, xxvi. 60.]

Letter from Henry Beaufort, Bishop of Winchester, signed
H. W., to his half-brother King Henry IV., dated at Waltham,
6th June, year not given.

He congratulates the King on his proposed marriage [with
Katherine of France], soon after Trinity, but regrets that he will not
be able to be present. " Besechyng $ow, my souereyne lord, to haue
in ^owr' noble remewbraunce wyht' what Conclusion' of reste I
depaHid laste owte of $owr' graciouse presence, and aftir )>* I haue
demenid me syht' I kam in to thys ^owr' reaume, and wyht' goddis
grace shall' to my lyuys ende, lyk as I truste to godde $owr' humble
lyge maw my Cousin Chaucer haht' pleinly enformid $owr' hynesse or
thys time."2

288.

1 585, Nov. 3. — Order by the Court of Requests as to the payment of
money at Chaucer's tomb.

[Books of Decrees and Orders, Court of Requests, Vol. 14, f. 29.]

Michaelmas term, 27-28 Eliz. 3rd Nov.

Puttenham v. Puttenham.

Order as to £45 received by John Bowyer, Esquire, one of the
Queen's [Serjeants-at-]arms, upon a lawful tender thereof by Thomas
Colbie, Esquire, on 31st October last, "at the tombe of Jeffrey

1 The seal is engraved in the Arckceologia, as above, in a paper by the Rev.
Joseph Hunter, read 14th May, 1850. As he remarks, the bend is entire, and
not counterchanged here, as usually stated. He describes the reverse as " a
pelican on her nest." The engraving is not very exact, but neither that nor
the seal itself shows any nest. The first letter in " Ghofrai" is doubtful.

2 This letter was referred to by Mr. J. Hamilton Wylie in the Athenceum,
April 14, 1888, p. 468. He pointed out that it was not written by Henry,
Prince of Wales, as suggested in the Facsimiles, but by Bishop Beaufort, who
was son of John of Gaunt and Katherine Swynford ; and since the Bishop
describes Thomas Chaucer as his cousin, it is inferred that Philippa Chaucer
was sister to Katherine, and mother of Thomas by Geoffrey Chaucer. This
would agree with Speght's pedigree.

Additions. A.D. 1341. Richard Chaucer, Deputy Butler. 335

Chawcer, within the church of St. Peter in Westminster, betwene
the howers of two & fower of the clocke in the after noone of the
same," according to a Decree made on 7th Feb. 8 Eliz. [1566].1

ADDITIONS.
1.

[1341, Oct. 6.] — The King's Butler appoints Richard Chaucer as his
deputy in the Port of London.

[Warrants, Chancery, Series I., file 1644. Butlers' Warrants.]

Reymund Seguyn, the King's Butler, deputes under him, in the
Port of London, Rtehard le Chaucer, for those things which concern
the office of the Butlery ; and to collect and receive in his name the
custom of 2s. from every tun of wine brought by foreigners, and 12</.
from every pipe of wine. (No date.)

2.

1341, Oct. '6. — Richard Chaucer is iwot/niMd by the King as deputy
of the, King's Butler, and Collector of duties oil Wines, in the
Port of London.

[Patent Roll, 15 Edw. III., p. 2, m. 9.]

Royal mandate to all Bailiffs and others to be intendent and
respondent to the King's beloved servant Reymund Seguyn, his
Butler, who has deputed Richard Chaucer under him in the Port of
the City of London, for those things which appertain to the office of
the Butlery. Dated 6th October.

[Ibid.]

Royal mandate to all Bailiffs and others to be intendent,
counselling, and assistant in the Port of London to Richard le
Chaucer, deputy of Reymund Seguyn, the King's Butler, whom
(Seguyn) the King has appointed to levy and collect 2s. from every
tun and l'2d. from every pipe of wine brought by foreign merchants
to England, to the King's use. Same date.

1 This entry is partly defaced. A similar payment is referred to in the
Report* of the Deputy Keeper of the Public Records, viii., App. ii., p. 169.

336 Additions. 1342-48. Richard Chaucer and John Chaucer.

3.

1342, Dec. 1. — A sJiip is arrested by the King's Butler, by Richard
Chaucer, his deputy, and by the King's Serjeant-at-arms, in the
Port of London.

[Patent Roll, 16 Edw. III., p. 3, m. 10.]

Royal mandate to all Admirals, Sheriffs, Mayors, Bailiffs, &c.,
reciting that the King had appointed Reynmnd Seguyn, the King's
Butler, Richard Chaucer, his deputy in the Port of London, and
John de Wynnewyk, the King's Serjeant-at-arms, to take, arrest, and
keep safely all ships which had been arrested for the King's passage
and had withdrawn elsewhere, with the bodies of the masters and
mariners of the same ; and that they had arrested a ship called Gog
Thomas, whereof John Boys of Dertemuth is master, in the Port of
London ; but that Oliver de Ingham, Seneschal of Gascony, had
testified by his letters patent that Boys was engaged in convoying
him from Britany to Bordeaux for the surer custody of the King's
treasure; and that the King had thereupon commanded Seguyn,
Chaucer, and Wynnewyk to release the said ship, &c. The
Admirals, &c.,' are therefore not to molest Boys or his mariners,
Dated at Kenyngton, 1st December.

The persons underwritten have like letters [patent] : —

"Walter Gent, master of the ship called Seinte Marie Cogg of

Dertemuth.
William de Asshelden, master of the ship called Seinte Marie

Cogg of Dertemuth.

4.

[c. 1348.] — John Chaucer is appointed to levy the Custom on Cloths
in certain Ports.

[Warrants, Chancery, Series I., file 1644. Butlers' Warrants.]

John de Wesenham [no description of his office] deputes under

him, to levy and receive the Custom granted to the King on Cloths

to be carried out of the realm by foreign merchants, among others : —

In the Port of London, John de Stodeye.

In the Ports of Chichester, Sefford, Shoreham, and Portesmouth,

and of Southampton, John Chancier.1
(No date.)

1 Nicolas, Life,, p. 94, refers to two appointments of John Chaucer as deputy
of the King's Butler in the Port of Southampton, by writs of Privy Seal, dated
Feb. and Nov. 1318. These have not been found. In Hunter's MSB. (Addit.
MS. 24,513) there is a reference to a receipt by Adam Inveys (?), receiver of

Additions. 1377. Philippa Chaucer and Elizabeth Chaucer. 337

5.

1377, June 20. — Half-yearly payment to Philippa Chaucer of her
annuity, by the hands of Sir Roger de Trumpington.
[Issue Roll, Easter, 51 Edw. III., m. 18.]
§ Die Sabbatfi, xx° die Jum)'.

"PhUippet, \ T?\LilippQ Chaucer, nuper vne (sic) domicellam?™
Chaucer. / Philippe, nuper Regine Angh'e, cni ~Dominus Kex x
marcas smmuts ad Scacc&rium ad totam vitani suain
pmiipiendas, pro bono aeruicio per ipsam tarn eideni Domino Regi
qwam Philippe, nuper Refine Angl/e, impenso : In denarii* sibi
liberate, per manus Rogeri de Tnimpyngton', militis, in persolucionetn
v marcarum sibi liberaudarwra de hmusmodi certo suo, videlicet, de
termino Pasche proximo preterito, per hr«we sun?/* de liberate, inter
mandafa de hoc termino ... ... ... ... Ixvj s. viij d.

6.

1377, July 27. — Warrants for making out patents for Margaret
Swynford and Elizabeth Chaucer to be Nuns in certain
monasteries.

[Warrants, Chancery, Series I., file 453.]

No. 26. A privy seal, addressed to the Lord Chancellor, to make
out letters patent under the great seal, nominating Margaret Swynford
to be received as a Nun in the Abbey of Berkyng. Dated at the
Manor of Kenyngton, 27th July, 1 Ric. II. (This is in French.)

No. 27. A privy seal to the same, to make out letters patent
under the great seal, nominating Elizabeth Chausier to be received as
a Nun in the Priory of Saint Eleyne in the City of London. Same
date. (This is in French.) *

duties on wines from Guienne in the port of Southampton, for 201. from John
Chaucer, lieutenant in the said port of John de Wesenham, Chief Butler, in 22
Edw. III. 1348 ; and also to three writs to John de "Wesenham or his lieutenant
in 21 Edw. III.

1 No. 27 is referred to in Nicolas's Life, pp. 52, 93, but not No. 26, which
is surprising, as he says so much about the Swynfords. Speght conjectures that
this Elizabeth may have been the Poet's sister. The admission of Elizabeth
Chaucy as a Nun in Barking Abbey, in 1381, has been noticed before in
No. 144, and by Nicolas, p. 52. Nicolas considered that Elizabeth Chausier
must have been a different person from Elizabeth Chaucy ; but may she not have
been transferred from one monastery to the other, so as to be a companion to
Margaret Swynford ? On the same 'file 453, there is a privy seal in French to
the Chancellor to ratify the letters patent of Edward III., which confirmed to
Katheiine Swynford the grant to her by John of Gaunt of certain manors ; it is
dated at the Manor of Kenyngton, 20th July, 1 Ric. II. On the Patent Roll,
this ratification immediately precedes the grant to Chaucer of the Controllership
of the Customs (No. 107).

338 Addition*. 1377. EUz. C. 1380. The Poet' s Journey-costs paid.

7.

1377, July 27. — Letters patent to the Abbess of Barking and the
Prioress of St. Helen's, London, for the admission of Margaret
Swynford and Elizabeth Chaucer as Nuns.

[Patent Roll, 1 Ric. II., p. 1, m. 15.]

The King to the Abbess and Convent of Berkyng. As by right
and custom of the Crown it appertains to the King, after his
coronation, to nominate a fit person as Nun in their Abbey, which is
of the foundation of the King's progenitors, the King nominates his
beloved Margaret Svvynford accordingly. Kenyngton, 27th July.

Similar letters are directed to the Prioress and Convent of St.
Elen in the City of London for Elizabeth Chausier. Same date.

8.

1380, Feb. 26.— Two Writs to the Exchequer for payment of
Chaucer's expenses in his journeys to France and Italy. (See
No. 122.)

[Exchequer Q. R. Memoranda Roll, Easter, 3 Ric. II., m. 9.]

Brewia directa Baronibws de Scacca/'io, de iermino Pasche, anno

tfircio Reg?'s RicarJi Secttndo (sic).

Pro Geffrey 1 RICHARD, par la grace de Dieu Roy etc., As Tresorer et
Chaucer. J Barons de notflre Escheqer, saluz. Nous vous mandons
que vous acontez ouesq^z no.s^re been ame Geffrey
Chaucer, Esquier, par son serement, de diuerses viages qil fist
nadgaires en le seruice de nostre treacher Seignur et ael le Roy, <\ne
Dieux assoille, alant en son message as parties dedela la mier,
cestassauoir, vers Parys, Monstroill', et aillours, a cause de certeines
busoignes ce nostrQ dit ael touchantz trete de pees, et aussi des deniers
de nostre dit ael par mesme celui Geffrey receuz par celles causes ;
fesant a lui due allouance pur le temps qil estoit en le seruice de
iiostre dit ael en les ditz viages, des iours qil departy de nostre Citee
de Londres, ou de nottfre dit ael, sur mesmes les viages, tanqt/e a ses
retours de [a ?] nostre dit ael, on a mesme le Citee, autieux gages le
iour tanqwe a les surames des ditz deniers par lui receuz, ou dedeinz,
come estoient allouez a autres Esquiers de son estait alantz semblable-
ment en message de mesme no^re ael as parties dela la mier, en son
temps, ensemble ouesqwe coustages resonables pur les passages au
[du 1] dit Geffrey, et ses repassages de la mier. Done souz no.<tfre
priue seal, a Westmouster, le xxvj. iour de Feuerfer], Ian de nostre
regne tierz.

[Ibid., m. 10 d.]

"Pur Geffrey ) RICHARD, par la grace de Dieu Roy etc., As Tresorer,

Chaucer. / Barons, et Chamberleins de nostrc Eschequer, saluz.

Nous voloii6' et vous mandons quo vous acontez

Additions. 1380. CHAUCER'S Journey-costs. 1390. His Robbers. 339

ouesqwe nostre bien ame Geffrey Chaucer, Esquier, par son serement
du viage qil fist nadgaires en nostre seruice, alant en nostre message
as parties de Lumbardie, vers li (sic) nobles homme Barnabo, Sire de
Melan, en la compaigne de no^re foial Chiualer Edward de Berkeley,
fit de noz deniers par le dit Geftrey receuz par celle cause ; fesant au
dit Geffrey due allouance pur le temps qil estoit en nostre seruice en
dit viage, du iour qil departy de nostre Citee de Londres par celle
cause, tanq?«e a son retour illoeqes, de (sic), autieux gages le iour
come sont par vous allouez a autrez Esquiers de son estat qi ont alez
en message de nostre trescher Seignur et ael le Roy, qi Dieux assoille,
ou de nous, as parties de dela la meer, auant ces heures, ensemble
ouesqwtf coustages resonables pur le passage du dit Geffrey, et son
repassage de la meer. Et de ce que vous trouerez duz au dit Geffrey
par laconte auantdit, vous, auantditz Tresorer et Chambe/'leins, lui
facez faire paiement de no.s^re tresor. Done souz nostre priue seal, a
Westmouster, le xxvj. iour de Feuerer Ian de nostre regne tierz.

Hoc brewe liberator ad Receptaw Scaccurij, xiiij. die Julij, hoc
term wo, inclorsatuw sic : Pretextu \mius breads de priuato sigillo
Rogi#, computatuw est ad Scaecar/Mm Compotorum cum Galfrido
Chaucer, Scutifero, infrascr/pto, de receptis, vad^/s, et expensis suis,
proficiscendo in Nuncio Regz's ad partes Lumbardie, anno primo
Reg^ Ricardi Secundi. Qui quidem compotus irrotulatwr Rotwlo
secundo dicti RegiV, Rot?^lo Compoforzwi.1 Et debent?ir eidem
Galfrido per com potuni predictum ... ... ... xiiij li.

9.

1390, Oct. 15. — Commission to certain Justices to inquire what
felons assaulted and robbed Geoffrey Chaucer, at Hatch am, of a
horse wortli IOL, goods worth 100$., and 201. 6s. 8d. in money,
and by ivhose procurement.

[Patent Roll, 14 Ric. II., p. 1. m. 17 d.2]

De inquirendo. — Jtex, dilectfis et fidelibw* suis Wille/wo Rikhill'
Willdfwo Brenchesle, Edinundo Brudenell', et Johcwm Tanke, salwtem
Sciatis, qwod assignauinms vos, tres et duos ve^rwm, ad inquirendw?^
per szcmmentum proboram et \egalium hominum de Com^a^w Sume,
per quos rei veritas melius sciri pote?*it, qui felones et malefacfores
in Galfr^wm Chaucer, apud Hacchesham, in Comitatu predicto, vi
et armis insultum fecerunt, et ips?/m ve?-berauerunt, vulne?^auerunt,
et male tractauenmt, et ip.^wm de quodam equo, p?'ecij deceni
librarw?^, ac bonis et catallis ad valenciam Centum solidomm, necnon
viginti libm, sex solidis, et octo denariis, de denariis suis, in pecunia
numerata, ibidem inuentis, felonice dep?-edati fuerunt, quando,
qualiter, et quo modo, et ad quorum vel cuius p;'ocurac^o?iem felonie

1 No. 122 ; and see note, p. 219.
This reference was pointed out by Mr. G. J. Morris.

340 Additions. 1376-1381. Folk who paid CHAUCER and his wife.

ille facfe fuerunt, et quis vel qui dictos felones postmodum scienter
receptauit vel receptauerunt, et de aliis articulis et circumstanciis
premissa qualitercumqwe concrnientibzw plemus vmtatem. Et ideo
vobis niandamzM, qiiod ad certos [dies et loca] etc., quos etc. ad hoc
prouideritis, super p?'emissis diligentes fuciatis inquisiciowes, et eas
distincte et ape?*te facias nobi's in Cancellar/a nos^ra, sub sigillis
vestris etc. et sigillis eorw??& per quos facte fuerint, sine dilactone
mittatis, et hoc bre^e. Mandauimws enim Nicecomiti nostro Comitatus
predict!, quod ad certos etc., quos etc. ei scire fucietis, venire faciat
coram vdbis etc. tot etc. de balliua sua, per quos etc. et inquiri. In
emus etc. Teste Hege} apud W&skrnonasteriuni, xv. die Octobm.

10.

1376— 1397.— Notes from the Receipt Rolls of the Exchequer,
showing the names and descriptions of the Sheriffs, Bailiffs,
Receivers, and Collector's on whom tJie assignments to Geoffrey
Chaucer and Philippa Chaucer were made.1

1376, May 31. John Ward and Robert Girdeler, Collectors of
Customs, 10Z. for G. C.

1378, May 14. Nicholas Brembre and John Philipot, Collectors
of Customs, 19Z. 13s. 4d. for G. C.

1379, May 21. William Spaigne, Sheriff of Lincoln, 26£ 13s. 4d.
for Mary Seinteler and P. C.

1379, May 24. Brembre and Philipot, 13Z. 6s. 8d. for G. C.

1379, Oct. 18. The same, 236/. 11s. 3d. • thereof, for them
selves, 46£. 13s. 4<i. [G. C. not mentioned here, but see Nos. 129
note, 151.]

1379, Dec. 9. The Sheriffs of London, 18s. 1(W., and the
Collectors of the Custom of Wools, London, 12Z. 7s. 10^. for G. C.

1380, July 3. Brembre and Philipot, 13/. 6s. 8d. for G. C.

1381, March 6. (No Receipt Rolls for this term, Mich.
4 Ric. II.)

1381, May 24. Thomas Dorset and Richard Tynham, Bailiffs of
Lym, co. Dorset, 6/. ; Eleanor, widow of Richard Turbervill, late
Sheriff of Dorset, 100s., for a fine ; and Oliver de Harnham,
Escheator of co. Southampton, 100s., for a fine ; in all, 16/. for G. C.
[being 13s. 4d. short of the amounts due to him and his wife].

1381, Nov. 16. William Garton, clerk, 6/. 13s. 4d. of the farm
of the alien Priory of Mynstrelovell, Berks ; and John Boneham,
100s. of the farm of the possessions of the alien Deanery of Morteyn ;
for G. C. 11. ', "and paid 4J. 13s. 4d." [into the Exchequer.]

1 These notes are mostly taken from the Pells Receipt Rolls, when extant ;
when not, from the Auditors' Receipt Rolls. Other references to these rolls will
be found in the text and notes.

Additions. 1381-1390. Folk who paid CHAUCER and Ms wife. 341

1381, Nov. 28. Brembre and Philipot, 467. 13s. 4<t for them
selves and the Controller (G. C.).

1381, Dec. 21. Brembre and Philipot, 107. from the Custom of
Wools, London, for G. C. and P. his wife.

1382, May 10. The same, 107. for G. C.

1382, July 22. The same, 67. 13s. 4=d., whereof for G. C.
5 marks, and for P. C. 5 marks.

1382, Nov. 11. The same, 117. 13s. 4<7. for G. C.

1382, Dec. 10. The same, 467. 13s. 4c7. from the Subsidy of
Wools, London, " for the same Collectors." [G. C. not mentioned
here, but see No. 163.]

1383, May 5. The same, 167. 13s. 4d., whereof for G. C.
20 marks, and for P. C. 5 marks.

1383, Oct. 24. The same, 137. 6s. Sd. for G. C.

1384, Feb. 11. The same, 467. 13s. 4df. for themselves and the
Controller (G. C.).

1384, April 30. The same, 157. 6s. 8d. for G. C. and P. his
wife [being 17. 6s. Sd. short of the amounts due to them].

1384, Oct. 18. Nicholas Brembre and John Organ, Collectors
of the Custom of Wools, London, 167. 13s. 4c7. for G. C. and P. C.

1384, Dec. 9. The same, 467. 13s. 4d. for themselves and the.
Controller (G. C.), for their reward.

1385, April 24. The same, 147. 13s. 4<7., whereof for G. C.
17 marks, and for P. C. 66s. 8(7. [being 27. short].

1385, Nov. 3. William More and Walter Rauff, Collectors of
the Petty Custom, London, 67. 13s. 4c7. ; the Citizens of Norwich,
107. of their farm ; and Richard, Earl of Arundel, and others, 107. of
the custody of the Priory of Lyomynstre, Sussex ; whereof for
Roger atte Gatte 97. 3s., for G. C. 20 marks, and for P. C. 5 marks ;
and paid 17s.

1385, Dec. 11. Brembre and Organ, 467. 13s. 4c7. for themselves.
[G. C. not mentioned here, but see No. 185.]

1386, June 22. William Bareswell, Sheriff of co. Worcester,
107. of the issues of his bailiwick, viz., for G. C. 10 marks, and for
P. C. 5 marks.

1386, Nov. 28. Brembre and Organ, 467. 13s. 4d., viz., for
themselves as a reward 407., and for the Controller [G. C.] 10 marks.

1389, Oct. 7. Nicholas Exton and William Venour, Collectors
of the Custom of Wools, London, 667. 13s. 4d. for G. C., on account
of his office [of Clerk of the Works].

1389, Dec. 14. The same, 1007. for G. C., on account of the
Works at the Tower.

1390, March 3. John Raveneser, Clerk of the Hanaper of
Chancery, 267. 13s. 4d., and John Loneye and John Walcote,
Sheriffs of London, 267. 13s. 4c7. for G. C., on account of the
Works.

342 Additions. 1390-1397. CHAUCER and the Earl of Derby.

1390, June 25. Sussex.— From Richard, Earl of Arundel, 207.
of sundry debts for G. C., by his own hands.

1390, July 19. From John Wrottyng, Prior of Westminster,
and his associates, 10/. of the farm of the alien Priory of Folkeston,
Kent; and from the Abbot of Westminster, 107. of sundry debts;
for G. C., on account of the Works of King's Chapel within the
Castle of Wyndesor, by the hands of John Lakynghith, Monk.
Also from the Earl of Arundel, in Surrey and Sussex, of sundry
debts, 6/. 13s. 4d. ; and from Thomas Sakevyle, Sheriff of Bedford
and Buckingham, 47. 8s. 8d. ; for G. C., by the hands of R. Swyft.

1390, Oct. 27. Walter Barde, keeper of the King's Exchange
(Cambij) within the Tower of London, 457., of the issues of the
same Exchange ; whereof, for himself, 207., and for G. C. 257. on
account of the Works, by the hands of the same Gautron [Walter]
Barde.

1397, July 2. Henry Cokeham and Richard Odyham, Collectors
of Subsidies, London, 100s. for G. C.

1397, Oct. 26. Richard Organ, one of the executors of John
Organ, London, of a fine, 67. 13s. 4d. ; and John Walden and John
Neuport, Collectors of Subsidies in the Port of Southampton,
66s. Sd. ; for G. C., by the hands of John Walden.

11.

1395-6. — Payment of money to Geoffrey Chaucer for Henry, Earl of
Derby, at London, by the Clerk of the Earl's Great Wardrobe.1

[Duchy of Lancaster Accounts (Various) 1/5.]

COMPOTUS Wille7mi Loueney, Clerici Magne Garderobe Domini
Henrici Lancastn'e, Comitis Derbye, a pn'mo die February, anno
regni Regis 'Ricardi secundi xviij0, vsque primuw diem February,
anno eiusdem Regis xixno, vltimo die computato, per vnuw annum
integrum.

*****

"Liberacio denaxforum 1 Et liberate* in mamus Domini apud Londora'am,

in m&nus Domini. J per manws Galfrtol Chaucer ... x li.

Swwma, xli.
1 Referred to in Mr. Wylie's History of Henry IF., Appendix.

CORRECTIONS.

Page

150, note 2, omit.

1 72, note 8, for sister read sister-in-law.
176, 1. 2 from foot, for 72 read 74.
270, 1. 12, for Collectors read Controllers.
277, 1. 23, after Swayn insert Walter Suthwerk.
281, 1. 12, for William read Walter.
283, 1. 40, for 236 read 241.
283, 1. 41, for 231 read 237.
. 295, 1. 20, for Ixvj s. read Ixvj li.
307, 1. 8, for costera read costis.

313, note, for is not extant, and therefore read is partly extant, but
315, 1. 18, for 4 read 5.
327, 1. 39,/or marks read pounds.

PR Chaucer Society, Lenden
1901 cPubli cations 3

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