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.

49. Robert Stretton.

SOone after the death of the former Bishop, Robert Stret∣ton [ 1360] a Canon of Lichfield, by the importunity of the blacke Prince (to whom he was Chaplaine) was elec∣cted Bishop there, a man very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnworthy so high a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in all respects. The Pope hauing notize of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, by speciall mandate prohibited his conse∣cration. Here upon the new elect was faine to make repaire vnto Rome. The Pope him selfe examined him, but was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 earnestly requested by the blacke Prince to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his sute, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he could not with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 honesty allow of him, yet he was content to leaue him to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Archbi∣shop of Canterbury, The Archbishop would by no 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him any testimony of sufficiency. At last 〈◊〉〈◊〉

much adoo, he procured the Pope to authorise two other Bi∣shops for the allowance or reiecting of him (who they were I can not call to remembrance) and they by the excéeding great importunity of the Prince admitted him to consecration, which he receiued September 26. 1360. Sée more of this matter in Thomas Lylde Bishop of Ely. He sate Bishop here 25. yeeres.