A catalogue of the bishops of England, since the first planting of Christian religion in this island together with a briefe history of their liues and memorable actions, so neere as can be gathered out of antiquity. By F.G. subdeane of Exceter.

The Bishops of Durham.

1. Aidanus.

THe noble & vertuous Prince 〈◊〉〈◊〉, hauing attained the kingdome 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Northumberland the yéere 634. and desirous that his countrimen and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should not onely be gouerned by the sword for their temporall good, but also directed by the word and prea∣ching of the gospell to the euerlasting saluation of their soules, he sent his Embassador vnto his neighbours the Scots (amongst whom were then many 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and well learned preachers) requesting them to send vnto him some good man that might instruct his people in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and feare of Christ. To this his most reasonable request, they quickly condiscended; and sent vnto him first a man, that do∣ing his best endeuour a while amongst them, and perceauing he could do no good, returned shortly into his owne country againe, complaining that they were a barbarous and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 people, amongst whom he had bene, and such as he thought he could not spend his time worse, then in séeking to instruct them, that séemed, neither desirous nor capable of knowledge. They that sent him, very sory for this tidings, and consulting amongst themselues what course were now to be taken, it chanced one of them named Aidanus to vse these words. It séemeth to me (quoth he) that this our brother dealt somewhat to roughly with his vnlearned auditors, not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them first with the milke of gentle words, and easie do∣ctrine, according to the councell of the Apostle, vntill such time as they were enabled to digest stronger meat: And this I take to be the cause of the ill successe his preaching had a∣mongst them. All the rest of the company thought it very probable which he had said, and these his (words occasioning them to remember, besides his learning and godlines, his no∣table

discretion and knowen wisedome, they agréed all, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 no man was so likely to amend that fault, as he that had so quickly found and discerned it in the other, and so with one consent ordained him Bishop of Northumbers. This Aidanus an humble minded man, a louer of silence and pouerty (saith William Malmesbury) auoiding of purpose the pomp and frequency of Yorke, chose for his See a little Island called Lindisfarne (now Holy Island) where he and diuers of his successors much deale lead their liues. He was Bishop seuenteene yéeres, during which time, he neglected no duety of a good Pastor, trauelling vp and downe the countrey euen on foote to preach the Gospel, giuing whatsoeuer he could get vn∣to the poore, and by the example of his owne abstinency, cha∣stity, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and all manner of Episcopall vertues, instru∣cting, aswell, as by word and doctrine. He departed this life nt August 31. an. 651. for griefe (as it is to be thought) of the death of king Oswald that was traiterously slaine 12. daies before. Beda maketh report of diuers mira∣cles to be done by him, which who so desireth to read, shal find them and many things more concerning him Eccl. hist. lib. 3. c. 3. 5. 1415. 16. and 17.

2. Finan.

FIunanus (sent likewise thither out of Scotland) was Bi∣shop of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 after 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the space of ten yéeres. He first built a church for his Sée in the Island all of timber, and couered it with réede. He had much to doe with one Conan and other about the obseruation of Easter, which they would haue had him to celebrate according to the manner of the church of Rome. He would not be indu∣ced by any meanes to any alteration.

3. Coleman.

HIs successor Coleman ( a Scot also) was no lesse obsti∣nate in the same matter. After many priuate conflicts, the yéere 664. this controuersie was discust in a solemne di∣sputation before the king and all his nobles, who adiudged

the victorie vnto his aduersaries. The 〈…〉〈…〉¦tation is set downe at large by Beda lib.3 cap. 25.〈…〉〈…〉 induring the disgrace of this foyle; 〈…〉〈…〉∣ricke and returned into Scotland againe.

4. Tuda.

AMongst diuers that came out of Scotland with Cole∣man, this Tuda was one, who hauing 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for the place, by diligent preaching, and vertuous behauiour vnder Coleman, vpon his departure was chosen to succéede him. He was content to reforme the obseruation of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and to yeelde to some other things which had béene stood much vpon & controuerted betwéene the Scots and Saxons. Hauing béene Bishop 〈◊〉〈◊〉 one whole yéere, he died of the plague anno 665.

5. Eata.

MAny of the Scots that came with Coleman returning with him, the rest chose Eata for their Abbot, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at Mailros, which place king Oswyn gaue vnto them at the request of Coleman. This Eata after the death of Tuda was chosen Bishop both of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and gouerned them iointly the space of 3. yeeres. After the ende of which terme, he gaue ouer 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnto one Tumbert. But Tumbert being deposed by a Synod gathered at a place called Twiford, Cutbert was elected vnto his See of Hagustald. Eata then perceiuing that Cutbert had rather be at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, tooke on him once more the gouernment of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and resigned 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnto Cutbert.

6. S. Cutbert.

THis Cutbert is said to be descended of the blood royall of the kings of Ireland, being sonne of one 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Sabina his wife, that was daughter vnto a king 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He was brought vp in the Abbey of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, first vnder his predecessor Eata, and afterwards vnder 〈◊〉〈◊〉,

that succéeded Eata there. After the death of Boisill, he was made Abbot of that Monasterie, which he ruled with great care and sinceritie. And not content to looke vnto those onely, the gouernment of whom was especially committed vnto him; He vsed often to trauell into the countrie neere ad∣ioyning, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on horsebacke, sometimes on foote, prea∣ching diligently the word of God, instructing the ignorant in the way of life, and sharpely reprehending vice where he saw cause. And his manner was to frequent especially, the most rude and barbarous places, to which he thought no body else would resort, least the people there being altogether neglec∣ted, might perish for want of their spirituall foode. He was a very personable man, well spoken, and so mightie in perswa∣ding, as none that euer he delt withall was able to withstand the force of his words. Hauing continued this manner of life at Mailros many yéeres, at the importunate request of his old master Eata, he was content to leaue the place and to liue once more vnder him at Lindisfarne. But affecting much an Eremiticall and solitarie life, he refused to liue with the rest of the monks, and seated himselfe in the Island of Farne, a desert place 9 miles within the sea, hauing in it neither house nor water. Yet there he made a shift to liue, labouring with his owne hands, till he was chosen Bishop. A great while he refused obstinately to forsake his solitarie life, euen vntill the king himself comming ouer vnto him, partly by force, & partly by entreatie, iuduced him thereunto. So with much adoo he accepted consecration at last, and receaued the same at Yorke vpon Easter day, at the hande of Theodore Archbishop of Canterbury (6. other Bishops assisting him) the yeere 684. in the presence of king Egfride, and many of his nobles. Af∣ter he had beene Bishop two yeeres, he would needes resigne, and returned to his Island againe, where seene after he ended his life. The day of his departure (to wit March 20.) is conse∣crate vnto his memory. He was first buried at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but afterwards remooued to Durham as hereafter shal be de∣clared. The myracles that are ascribed vnto him and many other things not vnwoorthy the reading, you shall find in the latter end of the 4. Booke of Beda his Ecclesiasticall history.

7. Eadbertus.

ONe yéere after the resignation of Saint Cutbert, the church of Lindisfarne was without a Bishop, Edbert was then chosen to succeed him. He couered his Ca∣thedrall church with lead; not onely the roofe (which before was thatched with réede) but the walles also. He sate tenne yéeres, and dying May the 6. 698. was buried beside, or ra∣ther vnder Saint Cutbert his predecessor, whose body the monkes had now placed in a shyrne aboue the pauement of the church.

After Edbert followed in order successiuely these:

• 8. Edferth or Edfride that liued in Beda his time.
• 9. Ethelwood, who died the yéere 738.
• 10. Kenulfus, he died 781.

11. Higbald.

HIgbald sate twelue yéeres, and died an. 803. In his time the Danes often spoyled the Church and monastery of Lindisfarne, so as the Bishop and monkes were faine to forsake it. Taking therefore the body of Saint Cutbert with them, they determined to seate themselues in Ireland: but being often driuen backe by tempest, so as attempting diuers times to crosse the seas, they could neuer land there; they gaue ouer that enterprise, and rested themselues sometime in one place, sometime in an other, during the time of all these Bishops.

• 12. Egbert.
• 13. Egfredus, he died an. 845.
• 14. Eaubert, he died an. 854.
• 15. Eardulf.
• 16. Cuthard, he died an. 915.
• 17. Tilred, he died an. 927.
• 18. Withred.

• 19. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• 20. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• 21. Aldred, he died an 968.
• 22. Alfsius, he died an. 990.

23. Aldhunus or Aldiuinus.

ABout the yéere of grace 990. this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was con∣secrate Bishop. The yeere 995. or nere thereabout, he came to Durham, or rather (for so is the right name) Dunholm, which is compounded of two saxon words Dun, signifying a hill, and Holm, an Island in a riuer. Before his comming thither it was a place wild and not habitable being all a wood, full of thicke bushes and trees; sauing onely a little plaine vpon the top of the hil, that was woont to be sowed aud is the very place where the church now standeth. With the helpe of the country people, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Earle of Northum∣berland, he cut downe the wood, cleansed the place, and in short time made it habitable. All the people, dwelling be∣tween the riuers of Theise and Coqued, came then and affoor∣ded most readily their best helpe vnto the building of a church there, neuer ceasing vntill in the time of this Bishop (who principally caused the same) it was quite finished. He was schoolemaster vnto the children of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Ed∣ward that after raigned, and is commonly called Edward the Confessor. The king their father being driuen out of his king∣dome by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Dane, the yeere 1013 he sent him with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his wife and his two sonnes before named vnto Ri∣chard Duke of Normandy their vncle. How seene the Bishop returned I know not, but I find that he died within three yéeres after, to wit, the yeere 1017. hauing continued Bishop almost nine and twenty yeeres.

24. Eadmund.

THrée yéeres after the death of Aldwine the Sée remai∣ned voide, by reason of the great troubles and continu∣all warres wherewith the realme was vexed by the Danes. At the last, God sending a more peaceable time, the

cleargy of Durham determined to procéede vnto an election. As they were conferring about the businesse they had in hand, it happened a certaine graue priest to come into the place where they were gathered together, and (vnderstanding what they were about) to say merrily vnto them, that they were best choose him. These words vsed by him in iest, were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnto by them in good earnest; insomuch as, vpon a little deliberation they agréed indéede to elect him for their Bishop, and so did: Matthew Westminster addeth (credite him as you list) that the monkes fasting thrée daies and pray∣ing vnto Saint Cutbert to shew some token of his approba∣tion or dislike of this election; there was a voice heard out of his shrine (the priest being at masse) that thrée times named Edmond to the Bishopricke. He was elected the yéere 1020. But not consecrate in fiue yéeres after. He sate alter the time of his consecration 23. yéeres, and dying at Glocester anno 1048. was caried thence to his owne church of Durham and there buried. William of Malmsbury commendeth him much for his industry in adorning his church and citie with buil∣dings and otherwise.

25. Eadred.

PResently after his death, Eadred was made Bishop, en∣ioyed that honor a very short time, to wit, 10. monethes onely, and then died.

26. Egelric.

EGelricus a monke (or as I finde also reported Abbot) of Peterborough, succeeded him, by the meanes & ende∣uour of Godwyn Earle of Kent. He builded a church at Cuneagecester (now called Chester vpon the stréete) in me∣morie that the Bishops of Lindisfarne had rested themselues there, together with the body of Saint Cutbert, 113. yéeres during the time of the Danish warres. In digging the foun∣dation of this church, he found such an infinite deale of mo∣ney, as after that time, not caring for the reuenues of his Bishoprick, he resigned the same vnto Egelwyn his brother, &

returned himselfe to the monastery of Peterborough whence he came. There he bestowed great cost in building & repairing the church & monasterie, as also in making a cawsie with tim∣ber, lyme and sande, through the fennes betweene Deeping and Spalding, a worke very necessary and of infinite charge. This cawsie was called after the name of the maker Elrich∣rode. He resigned the yeere 1056. and hauing led a priuate life now 13 yéeres, in his old age, to wit the yeere 1069. he was charged (I know not how iustly) with treason and con∣spiracie against the Conquerour, who drew him out of his cloyster at Peterborough, and imprisoned him at Westmin∣ster. There (saith W. Malmsbury) by continuall fasting and abundance of teares, washing away the guilt of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 misdéedes, he wanne vnto himselfe such reputation of holi∣nesse, as the place of his buriall was much trequented after his death. He died October 15. 1072. and (if I mistake him not for his brother, as many of our writers do, who confound the historie of these men, and attribute diuers actions of the one vnto the other) was buried in the chappell of Saint Ni∣cholas in Westminster.

27. Egelwyn.

THis Egelwyn was Bishop at the comming in of the Conquerour, against whom he alwaies opposed him∣selfe. At the last séeing himselfe not able to withstande him, and fearing to be too neere him, he forsooke Durham in the end of the yeere 1069. and caried his clergie with him vn∣to the church of Lindisfarne. But it was not long before they returned againe. The king hauing withdrawne his forces out of that countrey, and the Bishop (belike) being ta∣ken into fauour, about the beginning of Lent the church was furnished againe, and the Bishop himselfe entred the same, April 6. within two yeeres after which time, whether it were the auncient hatred he bore vnto the king that now reboiled in his stomacke, or a vaine hope of recouering the libertie of his countrey enthralled vnto the Normans, or offence taken at the vnreasonable oppression of the same, and especially of clergie men (as Stigand and diuers other that were depri∣ued

of their Bishoprickes and other promotions. He ioyned with certaine English Noble men, in a flat rebellion, allea∣ging at first that they feared imprisonment and hard mea∣sure, but indeed purposing to depose the king, and set vp some English man. When things succéeded not according to their expectation, they were faine to hide themselues in woods and secret places, doing great spoile in the countrey, till at last they tooke the Isle of Ely, which they defended against the kings power a long space. In the meane time Egelwyn our Bishop tooke ship and departed (as Matt. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. saith) into voluntarie exile. But William Malmesbury chargeth him with piracie and robberie vpon the sea. In the end being ta∣ken he was committed to straight prison at Abbingdon, where he died the yeere 1071. in winter, refusing (as Flor. Wigor. deliuereth) for gréefe and anger to take any suste∣nance: Howbet other thinke his abstinence was of con∣straint, and that he would gladly haue eaten if he could haue gotten meate. It is saide he was buried in Saint Nicholas chappell at Westminster: But I thinke him mistaken for his brother Agelrike.

28. Walter.

EGelwyn yet liuing (but in prison) the king caused one Walter borne in Lorraine, to be consecrate Bishop. He attending more worldly affaires then the charge of his flocke, gaue himselfe altogether to temporal busines, wherein he wholy occupied himselfe. He bought of the king the Earle∣dome of Northumberland, and then making himselfe a secu∣lar Iudge, tooke vpon him to sit in the court, and to deter∣mine all causes at his pleasure, dealing withall very corrupt∣ly, and taking still the course that might be most for his owne gaine. Hereby he greatly enriched his coffers, but purchased vnto himselfe extreame hatred amongst the common people, which was his destruction in the end. There was a certaine gentleman of great account named Leolfus, that married Al∣githa the daughter of Aldred sometime Earle of Northum∣berland, from whom the Lord Lumly that now liueth is line∣ally descended. This Leulfus, to the end he might liue néere

the church in his later time, and for very deuotion, came to Durham to dwell there, and kept company very much with the Bishop, who loued him entirely, for many good parts he saw in him; as namely, his wisedome in descerning, his equity in deciding, and his discretion in ordering and hand∣ling such causes as he committed vnto him; in which respect also he vsed him very 〈◊〉〈◊〉, imployed him often, and gaue him what countenance he could. Now you shall vnder∣stand, that vnto the same Bishop belonged two men, vnto whom for the most part he committed the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of all his affaires; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or Leobwyn his chaplaine whom he tru∣sted withall houshold matters, and Gilbert a kinsman of his owne that dealt in his causes of temporall gouernment. In these offices, they behaued themselues so, as the Bishop had cause to commend their diligence, but to blame their rashnes and wilfulnes in many things. Which notwithstanding, he bare withall, either because their industry, and care of his af∣faires so blinded his eies as he could not espie their misbeha∣uiour otherwise; or else, being loath to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them whom he had once aduaunced. These men, and especially 〈◊〉〈◊〉, did greatly enuie the credit that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had gotten with the Bishop, and euery where opposed themselues against him, not onely in wordes, traducing his actions, but in deedes also still thwarting and crossing his endeuours. Whereby it came to passe, that many tarres fell out be∣tweene them. One day amongst the rest, a court being held in the presence of the Bishop, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (for so also I find him called) according vnto his wonted manner, gaue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ill speeches, which he not enduring to beare as hereto∣fore he had done (furor fit 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉) answered this sawcy Chaplaine somewhat more roundly then he had ac∣customed. Whereupon he rose straight from the court in great indignation (〈◊〉〈◊〉 I meane) and calling 〈◊〉〈◊〉 aside, with little adoo perswaded him to carry a certaine num∣ber of armed men to the house where 〈◊〉〈◊〉 lay, and in a night to kill him; which indeede he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with great cruelty, murthering not onely the innocent gentleman him∣selfe, but also his seruants and whole houshold. The newes of this horrible and outragions cruelty, comming vnto the

cares of the Bishop, amased him very much and suspecting it was done by the aduice of Leofwin, turning him about vnto him, O Leofwin saith he, thou hast already flaine me by thy toong. So not doubting it would bréede much daunger vnto him, he got him into his castell, and presently dispatched mes∣sengers vnto the friends and kinred of Leulfus that was slaine, protesting that the fact was committed without his knowledge, that he was maruailous sory for it, and if any man suspected him, would be ready to submit himselfe to any order of law, whereby he might cleere himselfe. Herewith they seemed to be satisfied; but for conclusion of a firme peace amongst them, it was thought fit they should méete and con∣ser of the matter. They met at a place called Goates, head. The Bishop for his better safegard betooke himselfe vnto the church with his company. The people (whereof an infinite number were gathered together) aboade without. Messages a while passed betwéene them, but the more the matter was debated (being very odious of it selfe) the more they were in∣censed. At last it was told them how not onely Leofwin but al∣so Gilbert had bene harboured in the Bishops house, and af∣foorded countenance of him since the murther: which being once heard (and it was true ynough) they all cried out, it was manifest that the Bishop was the author of this fact. It is fur∣thermore deliuered by Matthew Paris, that the Bishop not long before this amongst many intollerable exactions laide vpon the countrey by him, had commaunded the summe of 400, l, to be leuied at this time. That being also remembred, while as all the company stoode in a mammering, doubting what course to take, one of some special regard amongst them stept vp, vsing these words, Short read, good read, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 yee the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Hereupon without more adoo they ran all vnto the church, killed so many of the Bishops 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as they found without doores, and with horrible noise and outcries bid him and his company to come out vnto them. Too late then he repented that he had committed himselfe vnto the fury of a discontented multitude, with whom he knew himselfe be∣fore that time nothing gratious. But to make the best of a badde match, and to try all meanes of ridding himselfe from the danger imminent, he perswaded his kinsman

Gilbert there present to goe foorth vnto them, if happily his death (which doubtlesse he had well deserued) might sa∣tisfie their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and purchase safetie vnto his Lord and Ma∣ster. Gilbert was content, and issuing out, with diuers of the Bishops company, were all 〈◊〉〈◊〉 except onely two English men seruants vnto the Bishop (all the rest were Normans) They being not yet 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he besought 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (whose life he knew well was principally 〈◊〉〈◊〉) to go out also. But he vtterly refused so to do. The Bishop therefore going vnto the church dore, entreated them not to take his life from him, protested himselfe to be vtterly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the bloud of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and shewed them at large, how dangerous it woulde be vnto them in particular, and what inconueniences woulde follow vnto the whole countrey in generall, if they should de∣file their hands in shedding his bloud, an vnarmed priest, a sacred and consecrate Bishop, their ruler, their gouernor, their magistrate. Hoping lastly that his very countenance, his gra∣uitie, his age, and the sight of his person might somewhat mooue them to compassion for he was indeed a very reuerend man to see to, very tall of stature, head and beard as white as snow, his face fresh and well coloured, and euery way 〈◊〉〈◊〉 personable.) He went out carying a greene branch in his hand, that so also he might testifie his desire of peace. When he sawe that all this auailed not, and the people ranne furi∣ously vpon him, he cast his gowne ouer his owne head in like sort, as we read 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Caesar did in the like case, and permit∣ting himselfe to their fury, with innumerable wounds was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 massacred, together with all his people and retinue, to the number of 100. onely 〈◊〉〈◊〉 yet remained within the church and being often called would not come 〈◊〉〈◊〉. So they set the Church a fire: Not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the fire, he leapt out at a windowe, and was immediately hewen into a thousand peeces. This barbarous slaughter was committed May 14. 1080. The monkes of Yarrow came and fetched away the Bishops body (which they found 〈◊〉〈◊〉 naked) and coulde hardly know it for the multitude of woundes; they caried it to their monastery, from whence it was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Dur∣ham and there buried on the south side of the chapterhouse, but secretly for feare of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vp and

downe the towne, and once assaulted the castell: when they could not preuaile there, they dispersed themselues, and for the most part came to euill and vnhappie endes. The king in the meane time hearing of this tumult, sent his brother Odo Bishop of Bayon with many of his nobles, and a great ar∣mie to take punishment of this murther, which while they sought to reuenge, they brought the whole countrey to desola∣tion. Those that were guiltie preuented the danger toward them by 〈◊〉〈◊〉, so as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of them could be taken. Of the rest that staied at home, some were vniustly executed, and the rest compelled to raunsome themselues to their vtter impoueri∣shing and vndooing. This Odo tooke away from the church of Durham at that time certaine ornaments of great value, amongst which is especially remembred a certaine crosyer of inestimable price. In this Bishops time and by his ende∣nour, secular Clerkes were displaced, and the church of Dur∣ham replenished with monkes, the Pope, the King, and the Archbishop allowing this alteration.

29. William Kairlipho.

THe Sée of Durham hauing béene voide 6 moneths af∣ter [ 1081] the death of Walter, to wit. Nouember 9. following William Kairlipho Abbot of Saint Uincente, was elected, and receiued consecration at the hands of Thomas Archbishop of Yorke, Ianuary 3. following at Glocester, the king and almost all the Bishops of the realme being present at that solemnitie. The monkes (whom he fauoured much, for he expelled diuers married priests out of his church of Durham, whom Walter was content to beare withall, and suffered onely monkes there) they praise him for a man of great wisedome, learning and vertue. Certaine it is, that he was very subtile, whereby, (as also by the volubilitie of his toong which he had passing readie at commandement) he got very farre into the fauour of the king William the Con∣queror, and afterward of his sonne William Rufus, vnder whom he did euen what he list Unto the later ende of these he prooued very vnthankfull, ioyning himselfe with Odo Bi∣shop of Bayon in a rebellious conspiracie against him. The

rebels being ouerthrowne, he was saine for his safegard to shutte himselfe vp within the walles of Durham. The king hasting thither by great iourneies, besieged 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and after a thort time had the towne yeelded by composition, where∣in it was conditioned, that the Bishop and his companie should depart in safety. So he got him beyond the seas, and liued in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 three yeeres, viz. vntill September 11. 1090. at what time the king comming to Durham, receaued him to grace, and restored him to his former dignitie, that verie day three yeeres that he had departed thence. After that time he omitted nothing whereby he might curry fauour with the king, euer applying himselfe that way whither he sawe him to 〈◊〉〈◊〉. In all the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 betweene the king and Anselm, he was the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stirrer against the Archbishop, hoping be∣like, so to assure himselfe of the kings fauour; and if Anselm should be displaced which he endeuored) he thought no man so likely then to succeed him as himselfe. But he failed in both of these purposes, for the kings displeasure was his death. He was summoned to appeere before the king at Glocester, at a day; before which time for griefe as it is thought) he fel sicke. When he appeered not, and it was told the king he was sick; he sware by Lukes face (〈◊〉〈◊〉 was his vsuall oath) he lied, he did but counterfeit, & he would haue him fetcht with a ven∣geance. It appeered the excuse was true ynough; for seene af∣ter, viz. Ianuary 2. 1095. he died, hauing been Bishop fifteene yeeres. This man pulling downe to the ground the Church that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had first built began to erect another far more magnificent, but liued not to finish it. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Scots & Turgot Prior of Durham, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the first 〈◊〉〈◊〉. stones, July 30. or (as some deliuer Aug. 11.) 〈◊〉〈◊〉. It is said, that ly∣ing vpon his death bed, & (as was thought past memory (if not dead) diuers Prelates that were in his chamber, confer∣red of the order of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and amongst other things ap∣pointed the place of his buriall to be in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, vpon the building whereof he had bestowed so much. The supposed dead man ouerheard them, and gathering his forces together, made shift to breath out these 〈◊〉〈◊〉; It shall not please God saith he, that you preiudice the honor of Saint 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by my buriall, for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of wham, neuer any of my predeces∣sors

would enduret o be laid there. Bury you me therefore in the chapter house. It was performed accordingly: his body was conueighed from Glocester (where he died vnto Dur∣ham, and on the North part of the chapter house there solemn∣ly enterred. Within a yeere or two after his first being Bi∣shop, he trauelled to Rome, and obtayned there licence of Pope Gregorie the seuenth to bring the monkes from Yar∣row and Wermouth into the Cathedrall church of Durham. He also bestowed vpon them, not onely bookes and diuers or∣naments for the furnishing of their church, but lands and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in sundry places; for the confirmation of all which gifts, he procured the charter of William the Conqueror vn∣der Seale.

30. Ranulf Flambard.

AFter the death of William, the Sée of Durham stoode voide thrée yeeres and fower monethes. The king at last bestowed it vpon one Ranulf, rather for the seruice he had done him, then for any speciall seruice he could hope he would doo, either to God or his church. For he was a very wicked man, but such a one as had serued his turne notably. He was first Chaplaine vnto Maurice Bishop of London, and well 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of him, but not so well as that he would let him haue the Deanery falling voide; which he taking very ill in a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 left him and (by what meanes I know not) woond himselfe into the court. Being passing subtile and shrewd witted, faire spoken, and nothing scrupulous, but ready to do any thing for preferment; It was no hard matter for him to obtaiue any thing of the king (William Rufus) a very corrupt and vicious prince. His first practise was, to farme the vaca∣cies of Abbotships and Bishopricks of the king; whereby he not onely enriched himselfe, but brought great sommes of mony into the kings coffers that neuer were acquainted with that kinde of profite before. The king perceiuing him to be a fit instrument for his purposes, imploied him daily more and more, and at last made him chiefe gouernour of all his realme vnder him, so as he had all that authority which now the Lord Treasurer, Chauncellor, and diuers other officers haue

diuided amongst them. For it séemes vnto me, that few of those offices were then so precisely distinguished as soone af∣ter. This authority he abused very impudently, not caring whom he offended so he might 〈◊〉〈◊〉 either the king or him∣selfe. Many times when the king gaue commandement for the leuying of a certaine summe of mony amongst his sub∣iects, he would require of the commons twise so much; where∣at the king being very well content, would laugh and say, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was the onely man for his turne, who cared not whom he displeased so he might please his Master. It was impossible, but he should be very odious, both vnto the com∣mon people and nobility also. And no maruaile if many com∣plaints were made vnto the king of him; against all which he shut his 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉. When therefore that way suc∣ceeded not, some of those his discontent aduersaries determi∣ned to wreake their mallice vpon him by killing him. They famed a message from the Bishop of London his old Master, saying that he was very sick and ready to depart the world, that he was wonderfull desirous to speake with him, and to the end he might make the better spéede had sent him a barge to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him vnto his house being then by the water side. He suspecting no fraude, went with them in great hast, atten∣ded onely by his secretary and some one or two other; they hauing him thus in their clutches, caried him not to the ap∣pointed staires, but rowed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on (say he what he would) till they came vnto a ship prouided for him ready to set saile. As seene as he perceiued how he was intrapped, he cast away his ring or manuel seale, and after his great scale (whether the broad Seale of England or no, I know not) into the riuer, least they might giue oportunity of forging false graunts and conueyances Then he fel to intreating and perswading, but all to no purpose, for they were determined he should dye. They had appointed two 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to dispatch him, either by knocking out his braines, or tossing him a liue 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for doing whereof they were promised to haue his clothes. These executioners could not agree vpon the diuision of this reward, for his gowne was better woorth then all the rest of his apparell. While they were reasoning vpon that point, it pleased God to raise a terrible and fearefull tempest, such, as

they looked euery minute to die themselues, and therefore had no very good leasure to thinke of putting an other man to death. Ranulf then omitting no opportunitie of his deliue∣rance, like an other 〈◊〉〈◊〉, by the musicke of his eloquence seeketh to alay their malice, and to diswade them from the execution of their bloudie determination, laying diligently before them, the danger that was like to ensue vnto them by so cruell a murther, which could not be hid, promising moun∣taines of golde if they saued his life, and lastly wishing them to consider, how God by raising this tempest, had threatned to reuenge his death, and had as it were set the image of his vengeance before their eies. Whether it were the feare of God or of man, or else the hope of reward that wrought with them, of such effect were these his perswasions, as first diuers of the companie refused to be pertakers of his murther, one of them then stept foorth, & vowed to defend him to his power, so as he would liue or die with him. And at length, his grea∣test enimies were so pacified, as Gerald the author of this conspiracie was content to set him a land, and to conduct him to his owne house. But not trusting a reconciled foe, assoone as he had so done, he got him out of the realme, and durst ne∣uer come in England after. So by one danger this man esca∣ped another, and might well say as Themistocles, when bani∣shed his countrey, he found better entertainment of his eni∣mie the king of Persia, then he could haue giuen himselfe at home, Perijssem 〈◊〉〈◊〉 perijssem, I had indeede béene vtterly vndone, had I not béene vpon the point to be vndone. Seene after his returne from this braue voyage, to wit, the yéere 1099. he was consecrate Bishop of Durham, in the Cathe∣drall church of Saint Paule. He was scarce warme in his seate, when his master the king being slaine by the glance of an arrow, as he was a hunting. Henry his brother succéeded in the kingdome. This prince not able to withstand the im∣portunitie of his nobles, and the innumerable complaints daily made against this our Bishop, clapt him vp in the Tower: But he so enchanted his kéepers with money and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 words, as they were content to let him go, and to runne away with him themselues. Into Normandie he got him in the beginning of February 1101. and did neuer linne buzzing

into the eares of Robert Duke of Normandy, telling him the kingdome of England was his by right, till he prouoked him to attempt the inuasion of this realme, but to small purpose, as in the Chronicles you may see more at large. How long he liued in exile I finde not; it seemeth not to be long, for he had leisure to bring many great things to passe at home after∣wards. He raised the walles of the body of his church vnto the roofe; he translated the reliques of Saint Cutbert into the new Church, and bestowed a shryne vpon him, he compassed the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with a wall: he caused a number of houses to be pul∣led downe that were neere the church, and might haue béene either noisome vnto it or dangerous by fire hapning among them, he continued diuers banks along the riuer of Were; with great charge, built the castell of Norham vpon a steepe hill neere the riuer of Tweede, the hospitall of kepar, the bridge of Frwgewallate, and performed same other things woorthie commendations. Hauing sate Bishop 29. yéeres or thereabouts, he died September 5. 1128.

31. Geoffry Rusus.

GEoffry surnamed Rufus, Chauncellour of England was then preferred vnto the See of Durham, in which he sat 13. yéeres, and died ann. 1141.

32. Will. de Sancta Barbara.

NExt after him, succéeded William de Sancta Barbara Deane of Yorke, a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and very religious man. He continued in this Sée 9. yéeres and, died 1152.

33. Hugh Pusar.

HVgh Pusar, Pudsey or de Putuaw (for thus diuerfly I find him called) Treasurer of Yorke and Archdeacon of Winchesier, was elected vnto the Sée of Durham after the death of the foresaid William; rather in respect of his nobili∣ty, and greatnesse of bloud, then of any speciall worthinesse otherwise. For king Stephen was vncle vnto him. He was

very wise in ordering of temporall matters, and (〈◊〉〈◊〉 he was not very learned) woonderfull eloquent, excéeding co∣uetous, and as cunning in gathering money, as thirstie and desirous of it. Henry Murdac Archbishop of Yorke, not onely refused to consecrate him himselfe, taking exceptions both against his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of yéeres and lightnes of behauiour: But al∣so sent to Rome to haue a Caueat laid in against him there. Eugenius was Pope at that time, an old acquaintance of the Archbishops, who both were brought vp at Clareual vnder S. Bernard. But such was the good hap of this new elect, as a little before his arriuall there, (I meane at Rome) Pope Eu∣genius was dead, and seene after came certaine newes thither of the death of the Archbishop also. Anastasius that succeeded. Eugenius, without much adoo affoorded him consecration, Decemb. 30. 1153. He sate Bishop a long time, almost 42. yéeres; in which time he built diuers houses vpon his man∣nors out of the ground, and bestowed much in repairing of the rest. He builte a faire house at Derlington; He founded the Priory of Finchall; he bought Sadbury of king Richard the first, and gaue it vnto his Sée. He built the bridge of El∣uet and the Galiley at the west end of his Cathedrall church, in which he placed the bones of venerable Beda. Lastly, he built two hospitals, one at Allerton, an other called Sher∣burne at the East end of Durham. To Sherburne he alotted liberall allowance for the maintenance of 65. poore Lasers, and a certaine number of priests. Neubrigenses ascribeth this good worke partly vnto other men, whom he enforced to be∣come benefactors vnto this foundation, being loath to be at the whole charge himselfe. At what time king Richard made prouision for his iorney into the Holy land, he also tooke on him the crosse, and vowed to be one of that companie. The king vnderstanding that he had prepared a great masse of money to carry with him, perswaded him to stay at home, and to afford him his money; which if he would do, he pro∣mised to make him Earle of Northumberland. The Bishop long since repenting the vow he had made, quickly condiscen∣ded to this offer, & accepted the same. The king hauing crea∣ted him an Earle, turned him about vnto the companie, and laughing, saide, he had performed a woonderfull exploit; for

(quoth he) of an old Bishop I haue made a yoong Earle. Now that he might haue some colourable ercuse of not performing his vow, he caused the king to alledge that he might not be spared out of the realme in his absence: And to make this the more probable, giuing the king 1000. markes, he perswaded him with golden Rhetoricke to make him chiefe Justice of England. The like Rhetoricke it was that induced the Pope to dispence with his vow, vnto which the excuses before allea∣ged made some way, but could neuer haue effected the busines without that helpe. At the returne of K Richard from Hieru∣salem; he found him not so fauourable as he expected, & thin∣king that he grudged him his Earledome, resigned the same into his hands. After which, notwithstanding he loaded him sore with many grieuous exactions, well knowing the Bi∣shops bagges to be notably 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for that he had offered him a great summe of mony for the redemption of his Earledome. The king therefore, being beyond the seas, sent vnto him for this money, as condiscending to his request. But the old Fox well ynough 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, humbly besought him by letters, either to affoord him the Earldome first, or else to suf∣fer him to enioy his money quietly. Whereupon the king that knew how to vse him in his kinde, writ letters vnto him full of reuerend and gratious speeches, wishing him to bring vp his money to London, and there to receiue the gouern∣ment of the whole realme which he would commit vnto him, and the Archbishoppe of Canterbury. Being very ioyfull of this fauour, toward London he comes about Shrouetyde, thinking then to take his farewell of flesh, he surffetted vpon the way at Doncaster, and finding himselfe sicke, re∣turned home to Houeden, where he died March 3. being the saturday in cleansing weeke. He was 70. yeeres old at the time of his death; & yet would hardly beléeue his phisitions, certifying him a little before he died in what danger he was. An old Heremit named 〈◊〉〈◊〉, esteemed of many, a very holy man, had told him he should be blinde seuen yéeres before his death, which (said our stories) Godricus meant the blind∣nesse of his minde; and he vnderstanding him of the blind∣nesse of his bodily eies, neuer cared to prouide for death, assu∣ring himselfe he had that seuen yéeres at least to come. Being

yet Treasurer of Yorke, he begot thrée 〈◊〉〈◊〉, all sonnes; the first borne of a gentlewoman of great blood, became a sol∣dier; the second, he made Archdeacon of Durham, and loaded him with many other 〈◊〉〈◊〉 promotions, which he en∣ioying but one yéere after his fathers death, was also taken away himselfe. The third (whom the old Bishop loued most tenderly of all) by his fathers great suit and no lesse expence, became Channcellor to the French king. He was so vnhap∣py as to see that his best beloued sonne buried. Himselfe de∣parted this world (as before is said) in the beginning of Lent an. 1195.

34. Philip of Poitiers.

KIng Henry the second fauoured much one Philip borne at Poitiers in Aquitaine, for the long acceptable seruice he had done vnto him: In reward whereof, he besought him to preferre him vnto the Bishopricke of Durham then void. The king well knowing he could not doo for him any other way better cheape, commended him so effectually vnto the couent, as they durst not but choose him. He was elected De∣cember 30. 1195. The next yéere he was sent Embassador vnto the Pope together with William Longshamp that fa∣mous Bishop of Ely who died in the way to Rome-ward. There (to wit at Rome) he was consecrate May 12. 1197. The yeere 1200. he went in pilgrimage to Saint Iames of Compostella. He was a great hartner of king Iohn against the Pope, aduising him euer to make no reckoning of his ex∣communications. The Pope vnderstanding thereof, excom∣municated him also together with the king: Being not yet absolued, he died the yéere 1208. and was buried without the church by the hands of lay men, because he stood excommuni∣cate at the time of his death. This Bishop, by the licence of king Richard the first, set vp a Mint at Durham, and began to coine mony there the yéere 1196.

35. Richard de Marisco.

IT séemeth the Sée was long voide after the death of Philip. For Richard de Marisco, Lord Chauncellor of England and Archdeacon of Northumberland an old courtier, was thrust into this Sée by Gualo the Popes Legate, and conse∣crate by the Archbishop of Yorke, the yéere 1217. During the time of the vacacy, I find that one Morgan prouost of Be∣uerley was elected vnto this Bishopricke. He was bastard brother vnto king Iohn, and begotten vpon the Lady of a knight called Sir Ralf 〈◊〉〈◊〉 or Blewet. Exceptions were taken against him, that he was a bastard and so by the Ca∣nons not capable of ecclesiasticall preferment without speci∣all dispensation; which the Pope being loath to graunt, adui∣sed him to call himselfe Blewet, and to alledge that he was borne in lawfull wedlocke, promising vpon that condition to affoord him consecration. But he answered, that for any worldly preferment whatsoeuer, he would not renounce his father or deny himselfe to be of the bloud royall. So he lost his Bishoprick and (for ought I find) neuer attained other pre∣ferment after. This Richard was a very prodigall man, and spent so liberally the goods of his church, as the monks doub∣ting he would vndoo them and himselfe also, went about by course of law to stay him and force him to a moderation of ex∣pence. But it fell out quite contrary to their expectation. For he being wilfully set, continued law with them, appealing to Rome, &c. and continued his old course 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vntill his death. The yéere 1226. in the beginning of Easter terme, he rid vp to London with a troupe of Lawyers attending on him. At Peterborough he was entertayned in the Abbey very hono∣rably, and going to bed there in very good health, was found in the morning by his chamberlaines starke dead. He decea∣sed May the first leauing his church 40000. marks indebted. A monke of Durham bestowed this ryming Epitaphe vpon him.

• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 qui cupitis,
• Est sedata sitis,
• Qui populos regitis,
• Quod mors immitis,
• Vobis praepositis,
• Quod sumvos eritis,
• laudes pompas{que} 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• si me pensare velitis.
• memores super omnia sitis.
• non parcit honore potitis.
• similis fueram bene scitis.
• ad me currendo venitis.

36. Richard Poore.

THe king earnestly commended one Luke his Chap∣laine vnto the Bishopricke of Durham now voide, swearing vnto the monkes that were sent to craue a Congé d'lier, they should haue no Bishop in 7. yéere after if they would not be content to elect him. The couent thinking him vnwoorthy so high a preferment, chose one William Scot, Archdeacon of Worceter, a graue learned man, and the kings Chaplaine: Howbeit the king offended that his desire was not satisfied, refused in great displeasure to ratifie this election. And vnderstanding that they sent vnto Rome to in∣treate the Pope to put him in possession of that Sée; he sent likewise his Embassadors, the Bishop of Lichfield and the Prior of Lanthony, to crosse and hinder that designement, which they easily performed: within a yéere or two after, they chose with the kings good liking) Richard Poore Bishop of Salisbury, a notable man. He was first Deane of Salis∣burie, consecrated Bishop of Chichester the yéere 1215. tran∣slated thence to Salisbury 1217. & lastly to Durham 1228. Being Bishop of Chichester, he purchased vnto that church Amport which he bought of the church of Winchester. At 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he is famous for remoouing his Sée from old Sa∣lisbury, to new Salisbury, where he began the building of that stately church. Sée more of him in Salisbury. He foun∣ded a monasterie of Nunnes called the Charnell at Tharent in 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and gaue it vnto the Quéene, who chose that for the place of her buriall. He builded also a Hospitall for poore people, néere the colledge of Uaulx in Salisburie. Com∣ming to Durham, he had ynough to doe to pay the huge debt of 40000. markes that Richard de Marisco left the landes of his Sée bound for. He was a man of rare learning in those

times, and of notable integritie for his life and conuersation. A little before his death perceauing his end to draw neere, he caused the people to be called together, and going vp into the pulpit, made a very godly spéech vnto them, desiring them to marke well that his exhortation, for he was now shortly to be taken from them. The next day he did the like, and bidding them farewell, praied them if he had offended any to forgiue him and to pray for him. The third day he sent for al his par∣ticular acquaintance, called all his family and seruants be∣fore him, and distributed vnto them presently by hand, such summes of money, as either he ought, or was willing to be∣stow vpon them: which done, and hauing set euery thing in perfect order, he tooke his leaue of his friends one after an other: and then falling to his prayers, when he came vnto these words (saith M. Paris) In pace 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 dormiam & requiescam, he gaue vp the ghost. He died Aprill 15. 1237. and was buried in the Nunnery of Tharent which he had founded.

37. Nicholas de Farnham.

THomas, Prior of Durham was chosen Bishop vpon the death of Poore. Through the kings backwardnes and dislike, that election was cassate and disannul∣led. A long time the monkes had laboured this sute for their Prior, and had spent much money in it. At last, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they stroue against the streame, they gaue it ouer, the elect himselfe first yéelding. Then chose they Nicholas de Fern∣ham, one greatly commended both for his manners and lear∣ning. This man spent his yoonger yeeres in Oxford, and ha∣uing furnished himselfe there with the grounds of all good learning, especially Logike, and naturall Philosophie; he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 beyond the seas, and studied Phisicke at Paris and Bononia a great while. Returning into his natiue countrey, he gaue himselfe much vnto the study of Diuinitie, & profited therein so well, as he was esteemed woorthie to be a Doctor. By the counsell of Otto the Legate, the Bishop of Carlile and other, the king entertained this man into his seruice. And first he was (as it seemeth vnto me) Esquire of his body,

then 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉) her instructer or directer in matters of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. When he had now a long time béene a Courtier, it hap∣ned the Sée of Lichfield being voide, the monkes of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 very carefull of choosing a sufficient man (because they knew their doings woulde be sifted) the yéere 1239. elected him; whom they knew to be a man learned, graue, vertuous, di∣scréete, very wise, well spoken, & (which maketh a man some∣what the more gratious) tal of stature, personable & of a good∣ly presence. He thanked them for their good will, but consi∣dering with himselfe that his title to that Bishopricke was like to prooue litigious, (for the Chapter of Lichfield preten∣ded a right to the election that time) as also the great burthen and charge of the office pastorall, refused in any sort to accept of the same. The Chapter of Lichfield (who had chosen their Deane) hearing of this refusall; by the exhortation of the same their Deane (who resigned his right) for their part also elected him. Which notwithstanding, he persisted in his for∣mer determination, telling them that he felt the burthen al∣ready so heauy of a Benefice or two which he had, as he was resolued neuer to accept any greater charge of soules. So they were enforced to choose another. Understanding within two yeeres after how the Couent of Durham with one consent had also chosen him for their Pastor, he likewise refused, and that more earnestly now then the last time, adding vnto the former reasons this also, that if he should accept of this place, men would say, how the hypocrite had refused a poore Bi∣shopricke, vnder colour of conscience to stay for a better. In this minde he continued, till Robert Grosthead (that famous Bishop of Lincolne) reprehended him sharpely for this his backwardnesse. Séest thou not (quoth he) how the monks of Durham, destitute of that comfort which a good pastor should yéeld them, intreate thée with teares to affoord the same vnto them, knowing well that if thou accept not the place, the king will immediately thrust in some vnwoorthy stranger to their great gréefe, and the no lesse dishonor of Almighty God? I adiure thée therefore by the bloud of Iesus Christ, that thou be content to put thy necke vnder this yoke, and to imploy thy talent according to the occasion offered. Perswaded thus,

with much adoo, atlast he yéelded. The king very readily al∣lowing their choice, he was consecrate at Glocester, in the church of Saint Oswald, by the Archbishop of Yorke, Iune 9. 1241. in the presence of the king, the Quéene, many prelates, and other personages of honor. He was not more vnwilling to take this honorable burthen then ready and desirous to leaue the same. The yéere 1249. he obtained licence of the Pope to resigne this his Bishopricke, and about Candlemasse indeede gaue it ouer; reseruing onely vnto himselfe for his maintenance during his life, thrée Mannors, with the appur∣tenances, Houeden, Stocton, and Esington. His successor began a little to wrangle with him about that reseruation, but could not infringe it. After he had liued a priuate life the space of eight yeeres, giuing himselfe altogether to prayer and contemplation, about the beginning of February 1257. he departed this world at Stocton. He that is desirous to read more of this man; in Matthew Paris he shall find often men∣tion of him, viz. pag. 768. where he telles how by his meanes especially the king was content to receiue into fauor Walter Marshall, & to giue him the Earledome of his brother lately deceased; againe, pag. 988. he maketh a large report of a great controuersie betwéene him and the Abbot of Saint Al∣bones; and lastly pag. 848. an incredible tale of his miraculous recouery, being desperately sicke of a dropsie ioined with other diseases. He lyeth buried in the Cathedrall Church of Dur∣ham, which together with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Melscomb Prior, he coue∣red with a new roofe the yéere 1242.

38. Walter de Kirkham.

NO sooner had Nicolas Farnham resigned, but the king was in hand with the monks to elect for successor Ethelmare his owne halfe brother. They would in no sort condiscend to this request; but told him plainely (yet in as good tearmes as they could deuise) how that his brother was such a one, as they could not with a safe conscience com∣mit so great a charge vnto him, being as yet very yong and not indued with any competency of learning. The king an∣swered, that he would keepe the temporalties eight or nine

yéeres in his hands, and by that time (quoth he) he will be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ynough. He was not as good as his word; for I 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Walter de Kirkham was consecrate the yéere following, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that place almost eleuen yéeres, and died 1260.

39. Robert Stitchell.

RObert Stitchell succéeded the same yéere. He founded the hospitall of Gritham. The king had seased vpon all the lands of Simon Mountford Earle of Leicester whereso∣euer. But whereas he had something of good value in the Bi∣shopricke of Durham, this Bishop chalenged it as due vnto him by the Earles attainder, and at last recouering it from the king by law, imploied it in the erection of that hospitall. He sate fowerteene yeeres and died August 4. 1274.

40. Robert de Insula.

ANother Robert obtained the place after him, Robert de 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He continued in the same nine yéeres, and dying Iune 13. 1283. was buried in the Chapterhouse at Durham, where he is couered with a stone very curiously wrought.

41. Antony Beake.

BEfore the end of that yéere, it séemeth Antony Beake was inuested in the Bishopricke of Durham, in which he so flourished, as (Cardinall 〈◊〉〈◊〉 excepted) neuer I thinke any either of his prdecessors or successors came neere him. He was woonderfull rich, not onely in ready mony, but in lands also and temporall renenues: For he might dispend yeerely (besides that which belonged to his Myter) 5000. markes. Much of that he had of the Lord 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who think∣ing so to conueigh it vnto his base sonne 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (for that he had no other issue) passed it ouer to this Bishop in trust; which trust men say he neuer answered. The Quéenes house at Eltham was part of that land. He built the house and gaue it vnto Elianor Quéene to king Edward the first, as also the

castle of Sourton beside Yorke vnto the king which likewise he built. A man now of this extraordinary welth must not content himselfe with ordinary titles: Therefore he procured the Pope to make him Patriarke of Hierusalem, and obtai∣ned of the king the principality of the Isle of Man which he held during his life. The yeere 1294. being Embassador to the Emperor, the Archbishop of Yorke Iohn Roman (vpon what quarrell I know not) excommunicated him. It cost him 4000. markes fine and his life in the end. He died (as it is thought) for sorrow. See more in Yorke. Great sturres there were betweene this man and his couent of Durham. He informed the Pope that the Prior there was a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sim∣ple and vnsufficient man to rule that house, and procured the gouernment thereof for all matters both spirituall and tem∣porall to be committed vnto him. Hereupon he sent certaine officers to execute in his name that new obtained authority, which when they came to the monastery, were shut out of the gates and not suffred to enter. The monkes appealed vnto the Pope, and alleaged, that the king also had required the hearing of these controuersies betweene the Prior and the Bi∣shop. This notwithstanding the Bishops officers made no more adoo, but excommunicated Prior, Monkes, and all, for not obeying their authority immediately. Herewith the king greatly offended, caused these officers to be fined and summo∣ned the Bishop himselfe to appeare before him at a day ap∣pointed; before which time he gotte him to Rome, neuer ac∣quainting the King with his determination The King therefore seised into his hand the Bishops liberties, and ap∣pointed a new Chauncellor, new Iustices and other officers. He writ also vnto the Pope, in fauor of the Prior, who de∣liuering the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 letters himselfe, was adiudged a sober and discrete man, whatsoeuer the Bishop had reported of him So he was restored to his place againe, but died before he could get home. During the time of the Bishops disgrace, amongst many other things wherein the liberties of the Bishopricke were 〈◊〉〈◊〉, it is specially to be remembred that the king tooke from him diuers Castles, and lands forfait vnto him by Iohn 〈◊〉〈◊〉 king of the Scots and other; but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Beau∣mout one of his successors recouered them againe by Law.

These broyles ended, he gaue himselfe very much to building. The Auncient mannor place at Arkland he did 〈◊〉〈◊〉. He built the great Hall there (in which are diuers pillers of blacke marble speckled with white) the great Chamber like∣wise, and many other roomes adioyning. He also erected that same goodly Chappell there, and placed in the same a Deane and Prebendaries, alotting the quadrant in the West side of the Castle (built likewise by him) for their habitation. He built or repaired with great charges Barnard Castle, the Ca∣stles of Alnwike (part of the L. Vessyes land, which he sold afterward to H. Percy) Gainsoorth, Cuncliff, Somerton, (which he gaue vnto the king) and the house at Eltham be∣stowed (as afore said) vpon the Quéene. Hauing sate Bishop of Durham 28. yéeres, he deceased at Eltham, March 28. 1311. and was buried in his owne Cathedrall Church.

42. Richard Kellow.

RIchard Kellow 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop fiue yéeres, in which short space he bestowed very much in building at Middleham, Stocton, and Welhall. He died the yéere 1316.

43. Lewes Beaumont.

THe Couent then chose for their Bishop Henry Stam∣ford, Pryor of Finchall, and sent him to Rome to be confirmed by the Pope. But before he could get thi∣ther, at the importunate suite of the kings of England and France, the Pope had giuen that Bishoprick vnto one Lewes Beaumont, a French man borne, and of the blood royall there. He was lame 〈◊〉〈◊〉 both his legs, and so vnlearned, that he could not read the bulles and other instruments of his consecrati∣on. When he should haue pronounced this word (Metropo∣liticae) not knowing what to make of it (though he had studied vpon it and laboured his lesson long before) after a litle pause, Soyt purdit (saies he) let it goe for read, & so passed it ouer. In like sort he stumbled at (〈◊〉〈◊〉 aenigmate.) When he had fumbled about it a while, Par Saint Lowys (quoth he) il n'est pas cur∣tois qui 〈◊〉〈◊〉 parolle ici escrit, that is, by Saint Lewes he is to

blame that writ this word here. Not without great cause therefore the Pope was somewhat strait laced in admitting him. He obtained consecration so hardly, as in fower∣teene yeeres he could scarce creepe out of debt. Riding to Dur∣ham to be installed there, he was robbed (together with two Cardinals that were then in his company) vpon Wiglesden Moore neere Derlington. The captaines of this route were named Gilbert Middleton and Walter Selby. Not content to take all the treasure of the Cardinals, the Bishop and their traine, they carried the Bishop prisoner to Morpeth, where they constrained him to pay a great ransom. Gilbert Middle∣ton was soone after taken at his owne castle of Nitford, car∣ried to London, and there drawen and hanged in the presents of the Cardinals. After this, one Sir 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and his brother Robert, came with a great company to diuers of the Bishop of Durhams houses in the habits of Fryers, and spoyled them, leauing nothing but bare wals, and did many other notable 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for which they (I meane the cap∣taines and diuers of their company) were soone after hanged at Yorke. This Bishop stood very stoutly in defence of the li∣berties of his Sée, recouered diuers lands taken away from Anthony Beake his predecessor (as before is mentioned) and procured this sentence to be giuen in the behalf of his church, quod Episcopus Dunelmen. debet habere 〈◊〉〈◊〉 guer∣rarum intra libertates, sicut Rex extra, that the Bishop of Durham is to haue the forfeitures of warre in as ample sort within his owne liberties as the king without. He compas∣sed the city of Durham with a wall, and built a hall, kitchin, and chappell at Middleton. But before he could quite finish the chappell he died, to wit September 22 or (as one deliue∣reth) September 28. 1333. He heth buried before the high altar at Durham couered with a marble stone curiously wrought and inlayde with brasse prouided by himselfe in his life time.

44. Richard de Bury.

IN great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (but with no great good spéed) the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Durham procéeded vnto the election of a new Bishop (the old being yet scarcely buried) and they made choise of one of their owne company a monke of Durham. This election the Archbishop of Yorke confirmed; yea the matter grew so forward, as the same Archbishop was content to giue him consecration also. All this while the kings good will was not sought, no nor (which was a greater ouersight as the world then went) the Popes neither. The king therefore not onely refused to deliuer possession of the temporalties vnto this elect, but also laboured the Pope, ex plenitudine potestatis to conferre the Bishopricke vpon a chaplaine of his named Ri∣chard de Bury, then Deane of Welles. Partly to pleasure the one that requested, partly to displeasure the other for not re∣questing, he did so, and commaunded the Bishop of Winche∣ster to consecrate him, which being performed at Chertsey soone after Christmasse, the king presently inuested him in the temporalties belonging to that Sée. Now was the monke a Bishop without a Bishopricke. Hauing no other home, he was faine to returne to his cloyster, and therefor very griefe (as it is to be supposed) within a few daies after died. This Richard de Bury was borne at Saint Edmunds Bury in Suffolke, whence he tooke his surname; for he was the sonne of one Sir Richard Angaruill knight. His father died leauing him very yoong, and committed him vnto the tuition of Iohn Willoughby a priest, his vncle, who brought him vp care∣fully, and that for the most part in the Uniuersity of Oxford. From thence he was called to teach Edward of Windsor Prince of Wales. At what time the said Prince fled into Fraunce with his mother, he was principall receiuer of the kings reuenewes in Gascoigne. Their money failing, he ayded them secretly with a great summe of that he had recei∣ued for the king. It had almost cost him his life, he was so narrowly pursued by some of the kings friends that got vn∣derstanding of it, as he was glad to hide himselfe in a steeple in Paris the space of seuen daies. King Edward the third his

scholler being come to the crowne, made him first his Coferer, then Treasurer of the Wardrobe, and keeper of the priuy Seale. In this last office he continued fiue yéeres; in which space he was twice sent Ambassador vnto the Pope. The yeere 1333. he was made Deane of Welles (a goodly prefer∣ment in those daies, better I thinke then the Bishopricke is now.) He had not enioyed that place one whole yeere, when he was consecrate vnto Durham, which was December 19. 1333. The yeere following he became Chauncellor, and within two yeeres after that, Treasurer of England. Being Bishop, he was often employed in embassages of the greatest importance. What time of leysure he had, he spent either in prayer, or conference with his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (whereof he had many about him, & those great learned men) or else in study, wherewith he was woonderfully delighted. He writ many things not yet perished. Anongst the rest, in one worke which he called 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he saith of himselfe, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 quodam li∣brorū amore potenter 〈◊〉〈◊〉 abreptū. That he was mightily car∣ried away, and euen beside himselfe with immoderate loue of bookes and desire of reading. And indéed his study was so well furnished, as it is thought he had more bookes then all the Bishops in England beside. He was much delighted with the company and acquaintance of learned men. Many letters passed betweene him, Francis Petrarke, and diuers other then famous for learning. He had alwaies in his house (as before I said) many Chaplaines, all great 〈◊〉〈◊〉; of which number were T. Bradwardin, after Archb. of Canter∣bury, Richard Fitzralph Archb. of Armagh, Walter 〈◊〉〈◊〉, I. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Rob. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, & R. Killington, Doctors of Diuinity; Richard 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Walter Segraue, the one afterward Bishop of London, the other of Chichester. His manner was at dinner and supper time to haue some good booke read vnto him, whereof he would discourse with his Chaplaines a great part of the day following, if busines interrupted not his course. He was very bountifull vnto the poore. Weekely he bestowed for their reliefe 8 quarters of Wheate made into bread, beside the offall and fragments of his Tables. Riding betweene New-castle and Durham he would giue 8. l. in almes, from Durham to Stocton, 5. l. from Durham to Aukland 5. marks

from Durham to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 5. l. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it reported that he founded a Hall in Oxford, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it with some 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for the maintainance of Students in the same; but I thinke it mistaken for that which was done by his next suc∣cessor. Certain it is, that he notably furnished a library in that Uniuersity, and tooke order that the kéeping thereof should be committed vnto fiue schollers, to whom he made a certaine allowance for their labour. He also bestowed many sumptu∣ous ornaments on his church of Durham. Hauing continued Bishop there 11. yeeres and almost thrée moneths, he depar∣ted this life at Aukland, Aprill 24. 1345. being 58. yéeres of age. He lieth buried in the South Angle of his owne church.

45. Thomas Hatfield.

THe Pope had now many yéeres taken vnto himselfe the authority of bestowing all Bishopricks: which the king and nobility of this realme being much agrée∣ued with all, made diuers lawes and statutes to restore churches and couents to the liberty of their ancient elections. When the king therefore had laboured a while in this mat∣ter; he being destrous of preferring this Hatfield his Secreta∣ry vnto Durham (a man that he knew the Pope might iustly except against; and peraduenture doubting the couent would not choose him) was content to request the Pope to giue it vnto him, and thereby opened a passage vnto him, whereby he entred into possession againe of his woonted vsurpation. The Pope glad of this oportunity, without any regard or ex∣amination of his worthinesse, by and by accepted of him: And when some of the Cardinalls tooke exceptions against him, saying that he was not onely a méere lay man, but a fellow of light behauiour and no way fit for that place: He answe∣red, that if the king of England had requested him for an asse, at that time he would not haue denied him. This man it was that built Durham colledge in Oxford and purchased cer∣tainc lands vnto the same for the maintenance of such monks of Durham as should be thought fit to study there. That col∣ledge is now called Trinity Colledge, so named by Sir Tho∣mas Pope that bestowed a new foundation vpon the same.

He built also Durham place in London to receaue himselfe and his successors when they should haue occasion to repaire thither He was consecrate Jul. 10. 1345. and died in the be∣ginning of May 1381. So he sate Bishop six and thirty yéeres lacking onely two moneths.

46. Iohn Fordham.

IIohn Fordham Deane of Welles obtained consecration to the Bishoprick of Durham May 29. 1381. and was in∣thronised there in September 1382. Seuen yeres he conti∣nued in the same and was translated thence to Ely Septemb. 27. 1388. See more of him in Ely.

47. Walter Skirlaw.

IAnuary 14. 1385. Walter Skirlawe Doctor of Law was consecrate Bishop of Lichfield He sate there one yeere, and was translated to Welles. There also he continued but two yéeres, and the yéere 1388. remooued to Durham in the monethe of September. The Cloisters of the Monastery there were much deale built at his charges. He gaue toward that worke 200. l. in his life time, & 400. l. in his Will. He be∣stowed also 220. l. in the building of the Diribitory. He new built the bridges of Shinkley, Yarrow and Aukland, and the stéeple of Holme. he repaired the Church and the Hall of the mannour there. He built a great part of the Lanterne at Yorke where his armes are fixed, and raised from the very foundation a faire Chappell at Swyne in Holdernesse where he was borne. Lastly he bequeathed in his Testament great summes of money to the Churches that he had gouerned for the buying of ornaments, as namely to the Church of Welles the value of 150. l. He fate Bishop of Durham 18. yéeres, and died in the beginning of the yéere 1406.

48. Thomas Langley.

THomas Langley Priest, and then Lord 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of England, was consecrate Bishop of Durham May 7. 1406. at what time he gaue ouer his 〈◊〉〈◊〉. But a 11. yéeres after, to wit the yéere 1417. it was laid vp∣on him againe and continued in that place about sixe yéeres. In the meane time, viz. June 6. 1411. he was made Cardi∣nall (together with Robert 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Bishop of Salisbury) by Pope Iohn 23. This man bestowed the summe of 499. l. 6. s. 7. d. in repayring of that Galily in the West end of his church which was first built by Hugh 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his predecessor. He al∣so founded two schooles in the Place-gréen, one for Grammar another for Musicke: 31. yéeres he continued Bishop here, and dying the yéere 1437. was buried (as I am informed) in the Galily and lyeth entoombed before the Altar there vnder the Table of the Consistory. I find noted by the way that about this time, to wit, betwéene the yéeres 1408, and 1498. was bestowed vpon the Cloyster of Durham the summe of 838. l. 17. s. ob.

49. Robert Neuill.

RObert Neuill was consecrate Bishop of Salisbury the yéere 1427. and translated thence to Durham 1438. He built the Checquer at the castle gate there, and died anno 1457.

50. Laurence Boothe.

LAurence Boothe was consecrate vnto the Sée of Dur∣ham, September 25. 1457. He built the gate of the col∣ledge at Aukland, with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 adioyning. Hauing sate here 20. yeres, he was translated to Yorke the yere 1477. Sée more of him in Yorke.

51. William Dudley.

WIlliam Dudley succéeded immediately. He was the third sonne of Iohn Dudley, alias Sutton, the eight Lord Dudley, as the Epitaph yet to be séene vpon his toombe doth witnesse. He lieth buried in Westmin∣ster in the chappell that is South from the toombe of king Ed∣ward the third. His toombe standeth in the South wall of the said chappell. He died an, 1483. and sate 6. yeeres.

52. Iohn Sherwood.

IOhn Sherwood became Bishop of Durham 1483. A great learned man, an excellent Poet, a Grecian, and so good a Lawyer, as for a certaine time before his preserment to this Bishopricke, he was the sollicitor of all king Edward the fourths causes in the court of Rome. He brought many co∣pies of diuers rare Gréeke authors out of Italy with him. Hauing continued at Durham about 11. yeeres, he died the yeere 1494.

53. Richard Fox.

RIchard Fox was consecrate Bishop of Exceter, an. 1486. translated to Bathe and Welles 1491. thence to Dur∣ham 1494 and lastly 1502 to Winchester. He chaunged the hall of the castle of Durham from better to woorse; where there were two seats of regality, he made but one. Sée more of him in Winchester.

54. William Seuerus.

I Haue heard reported that this man was borne at Shin∣kley, and the son of a poore man there, a Syueyer or Syue∣maker by his occupation, and thence tooke his surname. He was first Bishop of Carlile, translated to Durham 1502. and enioying that preferment onely two yéeres (or there about) died an. 1505.

55. Christopher Bambridge.

AFter the death of Bishop Seuere, it séemes the Sée was void two yéeres, Christopher Bambridge obtay∣ned consecration thereunto the yéere 1507. sate there but one yéere, and was remooued to Yorke. Sée more of him in Yorke.

56. Thomas Ruthall.

THomas Ruthall was borne at Cicester in Gloucestershire and brought vp in Cambridge, where he proceeded Doc∣tor of Law. He was preferred to the Bishopricke of Durham by King Henry the seuenth, after whose death, he was made one of the Priuy Counsell vnto the yoong king Henry the 8. who estéemed greatly of him for his wisedome, and learning, and imployed him often in Embassages, and other businesses of importance. Amongst the rest, it pleased the king one time to require him to set downe his iudgement in writing concer∣ning the estate of his kingdome in generall, and particular∣ly to informe him in certaine things by him specified. This discourse the Bishop writ very carefully, and caused it to be bound in Uelime guilt and otherwise adorned in the best ma∣ner. Now you shall vnderstand, how that it chaunced him about the same time to set downe a note of his owne pri∣uate estate containing an inuentory not onely of his vtenstles and houshold stuffe in euery of his houses, with their value, but also of his monyes either owing vnto him, or deniers contans ready in his coffers, which amounted vnto an infi∣nite treasure, no lesse then 100000. l. This account was written in a paper booke of the same fashion and binding that the other was which he had prouided for the king, whereby it happened, that the king sending Cardinall Wolsey for the other draught that he had so long hefore required of him, the Bishop mistaking, deliuered that which contained the re∣port of his owne wealth and priuate state. This the Cardi∣nall soone espying and willing to doo the Bishop a displeasure (for there had béen long and great emulation betwéene them)

deliuered it as he had receiued it vnto the king shewing, how the Bishop had happily mistalien himselfe; For now (quoth he) you see where you may at any time commaund a great masse of money if you néede it. As soone as the Bishop vnder∣stood his owne error, the conceite thereof touched him so néere, as within a very short time after he died. In his time the pa∣rish Church of Cicester was built for the greatest part: And he promised to contribut much thereunto, but preuented by death performed nothing. Anne 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his aunt by the mo∣thers side, gaue 100. markes toward that worke. The Bi∣shop himselfe built the third part of the bridge ouer the Riuer of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 toward the South. He also raised from the founda∣tion the goodly dining chamber at Aukland, and dying before it might be finished, tooke order with one Stranguidge that was his Administrator to perfect it. He deceased at London the yeere 1523. and lyeth buried at Westminster almost ouer against the the monument of king Henry the third, in a very seemely toombe, vpon which are these words to be read.

Hic iacet Tho. Ruthall Episcopus 〈◊〉〈◊〉. & Regis 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Secretarius, qui obijt 1524.

57. Thomas Woolsey.

IMmediately after the death of Bishop Ruthall, Cardinall Woolsey resigning Bathe (which he held in Commendam with Yorke) tooke Durham in steed thereof, and held the same about the space of seuen yeeres. In the later end of the yeere 1529. he gaue it ouer to haue Winchester, which he held little more then one yéere, and died Nouember 29. 1530. Sée more of him in Yorke.

58. Cutbert Tnnstall.

IN the Sée of Durham a notable man succéeded him, and one no lesse famous for his vertues then the other for his fortune, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Bishop of London. He was borne at Hatchford in Richmond shire, and was the base son of one Tunstall a gentleman of a very auncient house. It is reported, that their first auncestor attended William Conque∣ror

〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Barbor, and being raised by him 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 fortune, in memory of his former estate, tooke for his armes S. 3. combes A. But I take this for a fable. The speciall vse of armes is to expresse vnto posterity the vertues of such as are raised vnto gentry, and not to remember any thing that may be to the disgrace of the bearer, and make him lesse ho∣norable. Were the first of this race as he is supposed; because he was not aduaunced for being a Barbor but for his faithfull and loyall seruice, such armes should rather haue béene giuen him, as might haue registred that vertue, then twighted him with the basenes of his first trade and manner of life. Rather therefore should I gesse some other occasion of these armes, which as they were born by him, may haue many very hono∣rable significations. But to leaue his armes & speak of himselfe He was a very rare and admirable man, in whom I thinke no man will blame or reprehend any thing but his religion. There was scarce any kind of good learning in which he was not excellent. A very good Grecian, well seene in the Hebrew toong, a very eloquent Khetorician, a passing skilfull Mathe∣matician (famous especially for Arithmetike whereof he writ a worke much estéemed) a great lawier (in that faculty he proceeded Doctor) and a profound Diuine, as diuers his workes yet extant doo very well testify. But his greatest com∣mendation of al is that which I find giuen him by Bale out of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Thomas Moore, that as there was no man more adorned with knowledge and good literature, no man more seuere and of greater integrity for his life and manners, so there was no man a more swéete and pleasant companion, with whom a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 would rather choose to conuerse. In regard of these ma∣nifold good parts the Archbishop of Canterbury William Warham, not onely made him his vicar generall, but also commended him so effectually vnto the king, as he thought good to employ him in many 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of great waight, and diuers temporall offices of no lesse trust. He was first Master of the Rolles, then (as I find recorded) kéeper of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Seals, made Bishop of London the yéere 1521. and translated to Durham March 25. 1530. Being yet at London he bestowed much mony 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 Library in Cambridge with good bookes both written and printed. He

built from 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ground a most beautifull porch or gatehouse (with a chappell annexed thereunto of faire stone) in the castle of Durham, & added to the said castle certaine gates with iron barres and portcullices supported with strong walles on each side. He brought water thither with a conduit, whereas be∣fore time it was serued with well-water. He made the gate∣house at Alnewike, and built the Tolboothe in the market of Durham all of stone, with diuers edifices neere the hinder part of the said Tolboothe, which he gaue also to the city of Durham. Lastly he repaired with great charge the third part of Tyne bridge. Hauing continued in this Sée the space of one and twenty yéeres with great honour, December 20. 1551. he was committed vnto the Tower of London and re∣mained prisoner there all the rest of the raigne of king Ed∣ward, viz. ninetéene moneths. In which time, amongst many other horrible sacrileges (whereunto the nonage of the king gaue oportunity) meanes was found that the Bishopricke of Durham should be dissolued by act of Parliament. This morsell was ready dished, and in certaine hope already swal∣lowed, when it pleased God, to punish the deuouring coue∣tousnesse of those times, by taking away that admirable yong prince king Edward. Quéene Mary that succéeded, tooke this bit from the trencher of those rauening Atheists, & by like au∣thority, the first yéere of her raigne, restored it vnto the former estate, & y^t old Bishop both to his liberty & the possession of the same. Quéene Mary dying; for his contumacy & disobedience vnto her Maiesty that now raigneth (& long may she) he was iustly depriued of his Bishoprick, in the moneth of July 1559. He was then committed vnto the custody of the Archbishop of Canterbury who entertained him most kindly and seemed very glad of his company. But he enioyed it a very litle while For within fower monethes after his depriuation, viz. No∣uember 18. following being eighty fiue yéeres of age, he de∣parted this life at Lambhith, where he was first consecrate almost forty yeres before. His body was buried in the Chaun∣cell of the parish church there, and couered with a faire mar∣ble stone, vpon which is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 this Epithaphe written by Doctor Haddon:

Anglia Cutbertum Tunstallnm 〈◊〉〈◊〉 requirit Cuius summa domi laus erat atque foris. Rhetor, Arithmeticus, iuris consultus & aequis Legatusque fuit, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 praesul erat, Annorum satur, & magnorum 〈◊〉〈◊〉 honorum, Vertitur in cineres aureus iste senex.

Iames Pilkinton.

MArch 2. 1560. Iames Pilkinton Batcheler of diuinity, lately come from beyond the seas (where he liued all Quéene Maries time) was consecrate Bishop, and continued in the same Sée about 16. yeres. He died an. 1576. and lieth entoombed in his owne church before the high altar, West from Bishop Beaumont.

60. Richard Barnes.

RIchard Barnes was brought vp in Brasenose colledge in in Oxford, first consecrate Bishop Suffragan of Notting∣ham, preferred to Carlile the yéere 1570. and the yeere 1577. translated to Durham, where he sate Bishop about 11. yeres

61. Matthew Hutton.

AFter the death of Bishop Barnes, the Sée was void al∣most two yéeres. The yéere 1589. Matthew Hutton doctor of diuinity and Deane of Yorke (in which place he had continued 21. yéeres) was preferred thereunto. He held the same about fiue yéeres, and in the ende of the yeere 1594. was translated to Yorke, where he yet liueth.

62. Tobias Matthew.

OF him that presently succéeded (Tobias Matthew) I will say no more but what remayneth in publike re∣cords, that being doctor of diuinity, by many steps of preferment (as namely the Archdeaconry of Bathe, the Pre∣sidentship of Saint Johns colledge in Oxford, a Canonry

first, then the Deanry of Christchurch there, and lastly the Deanry of Durham) he ascended at last vnto this place, which (men say) he vseth as honorably, as he obtayned the same worthily. My resolution of onely mentioning those, that either themselues, or in their posterity yet liue, I hold the more willingly in him, because it is well knowen to so many as know me, I am greatly bonnd vnto him, and may be dée∣med partiall. He was consecrate in March 1594. long and happily may he liue in that, or such other honorable place, as his vertues do deserue.

This Bishopricke in the Queenes bookes is valued at 1821, l. 17, d. farthing, and in the Popes bookes at 9000. ducats.