| Description | From: Simon Islip, archbishop of Canterbury
Exemplification of a definitive sentence issued by Mgr John Severleye, auditor of causes in the archbishop's court and commissary, in Mayfield on 16 Jan 1357, in a tithe case between Robert Hathbrande, prior of Canterbury Cathedral Priory, and the chapter of Canterbury Cathedral Priory and William de Cusyngton', rector of Eastry, plaintiffs ('pars actrix'), and Richard of Mongeham, vicar of St Mary's Sandwich, defendant ('pars rea').
The priory and William claim a moiety of tithes of corn in Eastry parish, especially from the land of John Terry in a field called 'Pottakesdone' and the priory has appropriated them to the use of its almonry. The plaintiffs claim that Richard unjustly took these tithes in 1355. He denies the charge and alleges that the tithes belong to St Mary's, Sandwich, and have been granted to him as part of his portion.
Recites the full processus from the beginning of the case on 23 May 1356. This includes evidence of several witnesses (names and ages given) on behalf of the plaintiffs. Richard Cook of Eastry, aged 35, gives a detailed description of the boundaries of Eastry parish (many field names and other minor place names given).
The judge finds in favour of the plaintiffs and orders Richard to restore the tithes as specified which he took from John Terry's lands in 1355 and pay the plaintiffs' costs.
No date. [Date: date of definitive sentence.]
Notarial attestation and sign of Richard Wodeland of Pynham ('Calceto'), clerk, of Chichester diocese, notary public, who wrote the document.
Endorsed with description and note that the document was exhibited to the rural dean [of Canterbury?] on 13 Jul 1439 in mid 15th cent hands. |