| Description | From: Richard Gillyngham, prior of Canterbury Cathedral Priory; the chapter of Canterbury Cathedral Priory
To: Simon Sudbury, bishop of London
The priory, which is acting sede vacante, has received letters from Pileus, archbishop of Ravenna and papal nuncio to England and France, dated 13 Oct 1374 at London (recited). These recite the letters of Pope Gregory XI, dated 23 Sep 1373 at Villeneuve, Avignon [Gard, France]. Gregory has granted Pileus procurations of 12 florins a day from the papal chamber ('ex camera') and ordered the clergy of France, England and neighbouring kingdoms to provide him with financial support. Pileus demands payment of 1,200 florins, being expenses for 100 days, and 2 florins for the notary's salary, at Bruges within 30 days.
To meet these expenses, the priory has levied a tax of ¼d in the £ on all ecclesiastical goods and benefices in the province of Canterbury. It orders the bishop to collect the tax from his diocese and city by 14 Feb next and to pay the money, together with his own portion, to 'Dominus' Robert, rector of St Gregory's, London, and 'Dominus' Ralph, rector of St Botolph's without Aldgate ('Aldrichesgate'), London, whom the priory has appointed as receivers. The bishop is to send a list of the names of those who have and have not paid. If any of his clergy have already contributed, the priory will allow for this sum. If more than the amount of the procurations is received, it will be kept to pay similar expenses in future. [The seal is identified by Sheppard.]
Given at Canterbury.
Endorsed 'London' pro Ravenn'' in late 14th cent hand. |