The baronage of England, or, An historical account of the lives and most memorable actions of our English nobility in the Saxons time to the Norman conquest, and from thence, of those who had their rise before the end of King Henry the Third's reign deduced from publick records, antient historians, and other authorities / by William Dugdale ...

Beauchamp of Elmley.

OF the same Family, I conclude Walter* 1.1 de Beauchamp to be; the cheif Seat of whose Descendants, for divers ages, was at Elmley Castle in Worcestershire; but of him I have not seen any thing, till the time of King Henry the First, who bestoweda 1.2 on him all the Lands of Roger de Worcester, with many Priviledges to those Lands belonging; and like∣wise the Sheriffaltyb 1.3 of Worcestershire; to hold as freely, as any of his Ancestors had done: Which Office Vrso de Abitot hereditarily enjoyed c 1.4 in the time of King William the Conqueror, whose Daughter and Heir Emeline, this Walter marriedd 1.5. And besides all this, a Confirmation e 1.6 from that King of all those Lands, which Ade∣lise, the Widow of the same Vrso de Abitot, had given unto him.

This Walter was Stewardf 1.7 to King Henry the First, and left issue William de Beauchamp,* 1.8 his Son and Heir, who boreg 1.9 that Office of Steward, as his Father had done; having the Kings Confirmationh 1.10 thereof, with Livery of his Inheritance: And after the death of King Henry, stood so firm to Maud the Empress, that King Stephen dispossessedi 1.11 him of the Castle of Worcester, which hereditarily descended to him by Emeline his Mother, from Vrso de Abitot before mentioned; and gavek 1.12 it, with the City, to Waleran, Earl of ••ellent; but the Em∣press, being sensible of his fidelity to her, did not only restorel 1.13 unto him that Castle, with the outer Ward thereto belonging; to holdm 1.14 of her heirs, in capite, together with the Sheriffalty of that County, Forests, and whatsoever else did of Inheritance pertain thereto, paying the like yearly Rent, as Walter his Father had done; and whereupon he Covenantedn 1.15 to be her Liege∣man, against all persons, especially against Wa∣leran, Earl of Mellent, (with whom, she de∣clared she would make no agreement for the Premisses) but bestowedo 1.16 on him the Town and Castle of Tamworth (in Warwickshire) to hold as freely, as Robert de Spenser, Brother to Vrso de Abitot, had ever enjoyed it: And Likewisep 1.17 the Mannors of Bekford, Weston, and Luffenham, in Rutland, as his right; to∣gether with sixty pound per annum, English Lands, for his service.

And moreover, restoredq 1.18 to him and his heirs, that Office of Constable, which Vrso de Abitot held; and likewiser 1.19, that Office of Steward, which Walter his Father enjoyed under King Henry the First; as alsos 1.20 all the Lands and In∣heritances of those his next Ancestors who had been in Arms against her; and who could not make Fine with her for the same, except some of their nearest Kinred had served in the Wars on her part.

Besides the Sheriffalty of Worcestershire which this William so had by Inheritance (as hath been observed) he executed the like Office for Warwickshire int 1.21 2 Hen. 2. So also for Glocestershire, fromu 1.22 the Third to the ninth of Henry the Second, inclusive: And for Here∣fordshire, fromx 1.23 the Eighth till the sixteenth of Henry the Second, inclusive. And in the Twelfth of Henry the Second, upon Assessment of the Aid for marrying the Kings Daughter, certifiedy 1.24 his Knights Fees to be in number Fif∣teen. But farther than this I have not seen of him, other than that he (together with Stephen de Beauchamp) gavez 1.25 the Lordship of O••ma∣resley to the Abbey of Bordsley, which Maud the Empress had Founded; and toa 1.26 the Knights Templars two Hides of Land in Roe∣ley.

[illustration]

To this William succeeded in these great in∣heritances, William* 1.27 his Son and Heir; who in 6 R. 1. gavea 1.28 to the King a fine of forty marks, to be freed from attending him at that time into Normandy; but died before the thirteenth of King Iohns Reign, as it seems; for it appearethb 1.29, that Guimer de Chancells, who had then the cu∣stody of his Lands; upon levying the Scutage of Wales, paid thirty two marks for those sixteen Knights Fees, which this William held; and that he left issue Walter his Son and Heir, then in minority; whose Wardship and Marri∣age, for the sum of Three thousand marks, Ro∣ger de Mortimer, and Isabel his Wife obtainedc 1.30.

Which Walter was made Governord 1.31 of Han∣ley Castle, in Worc••stershire, in 17 Ioh. and and trusted with the Custodye 1.32 of the same Coun∣ty, in that turbulent year: but falling offf 1.33 from the King, to the Rebellious Barons, his Lands were seisedg 1.34 on, and he himself excommuni∣cate h 1.35. Which so startled him, that he soon af∣ter made his peace with the King, and repai∣red i 1.36 to Gualo the Popes Legate, for absolution; his Castle of Elmeley, till his returne, being committedk 1.37 to Walter de Lasci, Hugh de Mor∣timer, Walter de Clifford, and Iohn de Monemuth. Whose absolution 'tis like he obtained: for soon afterwards, upon securityl 1.38 given, by those emi∣nent persons, unto King Henry the third (who by the death of his Father King Iohn, came to the Crown within the compass of that year) he had, in consideration of his future fidelity and service, restirutionm 1.39 of his Castle at Worce∣ster, and likewise of the Sheriffalty of that County; with promisen 1.40 to enjoy them until the King should accomplish the age of fourteen

years; and longer at pleasure. But, there being some dispute, made at that time by the Bishop of Worce••ter, touching the outer ward of that Castle; the King directed his precepto 1.41 to the Sheriff, to summon twelve Knights, or other lawfull men of that County, who had no rela∣tion to either party: unto whom two Knights of Gloucestershire, were also added; to enquire touching the right of each, in the premisses; and to certifie what they should finde therein, unto William Marshall, then Governor of the King and Kingdom.

That which I find farther memorable of this Walter de Beauchamp, is, that being one of the Barons-Marchers (id est, confining on Wales) he gave securityp 1.42 to the King for his faithful service (as all the rest of the Barons-Marchers then did) untill Peace should be fully setled in the Realm: And for the better performance thereof, gave up Iames his younger Son, an Ho∣stage q 1.43.

How he behaved himself after this, I have not seen; but certain it is, that his demeanor was not such as it ought; for in 20 Hen. 3. he came to a new attonement with the King; and gaver 1.44 fifty marks Fine, besides the Aurum Re∣ginae to the Queen, whereupon he had a new grants 1.45 of the hereditary Sheriffalty of ••or∣cestershire. But long after this he lived not: for the same year, William* 1.46 his Son had Livery t 1.47 of his Lands, doing his Homage, and giving securityu 1.48 for the payment of an hundred pounds for his Releif.

Of which William I have not seen any thing memorable, untill 37 Henr. 3. that he attended * 1.49 the King into Gascoigne.

But after that, scil. in 39 Hen. 3. he wasx 1.50 in that expedition made into Scotland, with Robert de Clare Earl of Gloucester. And in 41 Hen. 3. had summonsy 1.51 (with other great men) to attend the King at Chester, on the Feast day of S. Peter ad Vincula, well fitted with Horse and Armes, to oppose the hostile Incursions of Leweline Prince of Wales: As also another preceptz 1.52 to be at Bristol on the Octaves of the same Feast, in like sort accou∣tred: In consideration of which services, the King at the requesta 1.53 of the said Earl of Glou∣cester, respitedb 1.54 the payment of certain mo∣neys, due by him to the Exchequer, untill a farther time: And in 42 Hen. 3. had the like summonsc 1.55 to be at Chester, upon Munday next after the feast of S. Iohn Baptist.

Moreover, in 44 H. 3. he had another sum∣mons d 1.56 to be at Shrewsbury, so provided as abovesaid, upon the like accompt: and in 47 Hen. 3. toe 1.57 attend the King at Hereford, to restrain the insolencies of the Welch, who had made incursions on the Marches thereabouts.

This is that William, who weddedf 1.58 Isabel the Daughter of William Mauduit of Hanslape, in Com. Buck. Chamberlain to the King in his Ex∣chequer, by inheritance; Sister and Heir to Wil∣liam Mauduit Earl of Warwick. Which Isa∣bel hadg 1.59 in Frank-marriage all her Fathers Lands in Ledecumve; with proviso, that if they did not amount to the value of twenty pounds per annum, it should be made up elsewhere.

This William de Beauchamp gaveh 1.60 to the Abby of Bordsley, certain Lands in Bivinton, in Com. Warr. and by his Testamenti 1.61 bearing date at Wauberge, upon the Morrow after the Epiphany, Anno 1268. 53 Henr. 3. bequeathed his body to be buried in the Church of the Friers-Minorsk 1.62, at Worcester; appointing that at his Funeral, a Horse compleatly Harn••ssed, with all military Caparisons, should proceed be∣fore his Corps (which usage hath continued in the solemnizing of funerals, for great persons till our times.)

To a Priest to sing Mass daily in his Chapel, without the City of Worcester, near unto that house of Friers, he gave for the health of his Soul▪ and for the Souls of Isabel his Wife, Isabel de Mortimer, and all the faithful 〈◊〉〈◊〉, all his Rent of the Fee of 〈…〉〈…〉 in Wiche, and Winc••ester; with 〈…〉〈…〉 what should be too short, out of his 〈…〉〈…〉 per goods.

To Walter his Son, signed with the Cross, for a pilgrimage to the Holy-Land, on the be∣half of the Testator (his Father 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Isabel his Mother, he gave two hundred Marks. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ioane his Daughter, a Canopy sometime belongi•••• to S. Wolstan, and a Book of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, which he (id est, the Testator) had lent them. To Isabel his Daughter a Silver Cup. To 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his D••ugh∣ter towards her Marriage, all the money 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to him from his Son William, and forty 〈◊〉〈◊〉 more, with the Land which he bought in 〈◊〉〈◊〉; to enjoy till she should be married, and no longer. To 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Daughter an hun∣dred marks for her Marriage portion. To William his 〈…〉〈…〉 Cup and Hornes of St. Hugh; and to the Countess his Wife a Ring, with a Ruby it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 To Sir 〈◊〉〈◊〉 De Mortimer a Ring, to Sir 〈◊〉〈◊〉 de Suley a Ring. To the Frier-Minors of Worcester, forty shillings. To the Friers-Minors of Gloucester one mark. To the the Friers-Carmelites there, one mark. To the Hospital of S. W••lstan, at Worcester, one mark. To the Hospital of S. Oswald there, ten shillings. To the Canons of Doddeford, one mark. To the Church and Nunns of Coke∣hili, and Isabel his Wife ten marks. To the Church and Nunns of Westwood, one mark. To the Church and Nunns without W••••ce∣ster, one mark. To every Anchorite in Wor∣cester, and the parts adjacent, four shillings. To the Church of Salewar•• (in Com. Wig••rn.) a House and Garden near the Parsonage, to to finde a Lamp continually burning therein, to the Honor of God, the Blessed ••irgin, S. Kathe∣rine, and S. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Of which Testament he constituted these his Executors; viz. William his Eldest Son, Earl of Warwick, Sir Roger Mortimer, Sir Bartho∣lomew de Sudley, with the Abbots of Evesham, and great Malverne.

It seemes he lived not long after; for I finde, that his Son and Heir; viz. William de Beauchamp Earl of Warwick, did his Homage l 1.63 in the Chapel of Bredon, for the Lands he held of him, 2 Non. M••ii, An••••, 1269. Which was within four Months after the date of this Testament.

And now before I proceed, I shall observe two things; first, that the Lady 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Wife to this last mentioned William de 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who, by the death of her Brother, William Mau∣duit Earl of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, became Heir of this great Earldom, was not only Foundressm 1.64 of the Nunnery at Cokehill, before mentioned; but betooke herself to a Religious life there, as may

plainly be inferred from that Legacy wherein she is joyned with those Nunns. And secondly, that this William, the Testator, though his Lady was then living, and that they both together survived William de Mauduit, her Brother (to whom she was sole Heir) above a twelve Month; never had the title of Earl; but that William de Beauchamp, their Son and Heir, enjoyed that Honor whilst they lived; as is evident from these two passages in the Testament of William the Father; viz.—Item Willielmo primogenito meo, Cornua & Ciphum Se••nt Huwe; & filiae meae Comitissae, uxori suae, unum Annulum, cum lapide de Rubie. And afterwards,—Caetera autem bona mea commisi ordinationi & dispositioni dilectorum Executorum Testament mei, D. Rog••ri de Mortuomari, & Willieimi primogeniti mei Comi∣tis Warewici.

In the first whereof he calls his Sons Wife Countess; and in the second plainly stiles him Earl. Which title he not only used in that In∣strument o 1.65 of Agreement, made betwixt him, and Alice the Widow of William Mauduit, the last Earl, in 52 Henr. 3. (whereof I have else∣where spoke:) but hath the same title attribu∣ted p 1.66 to him by the Kings precept dated 9 Mar∣tii, next ensuing the Earl his Uncles death (his Father and Mother being then both alive) By which preceptq 1.67 it is also evident, that he was in good esteem with the King: forasmuch as it thereby appears, that the King pardoned his releif, viz. one hundred pounds; and did likewise acquit him of ninety five pounds. Which summe, William de Mauduit the last Earl owed to a Jew in London.

This this William de Beauchamp might justly bear the title of Earl, by right from his Mother, she being Heir-general to William Mauduit, who last enjoyed that Honor; considering the custom of those elder times (as M^r. Selden in hisr 1.68 Titles of Honor hath observed) I shall not stand here to argue: but whether he ought to have so done, before his Mothers decease, had it not been by the Kings special favor, I make a question: All therefore, that I shall say thereto, is; to shew some probable reason why that title was attri∣buted to him, during her time; which is, from what I finde delivered by Lelands 1.69 out of an old Chronicle of the Gests of England; written in French (but with some Mistake) The words are these;

The old Lord Beauchamp of Helmeley, sent three or four of his Sons to the Battle of Evesham, to help King Henry the third, and Prince Edward, against Simon Montford, and the Barons; whereupon the eldest had Bellomonts Heir; and the residue were highly preferred. the Beauchamps afterwards kept the name of Earl of UUarwick, to King Edw. the fourths time.

Now, that the substance of this is true; viz. that for the service done in that Battle he had (by special favor) the title of Earl, is likely enough; but that he or his Father did marry the immediate Heir of Bell••••nont; or that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 kept the name of Earl till Edward the ••••urths time, cannot be proved.

To return to his Story.

This William upon the ninth of February, 52 Hen. 3. did his Homaget 1.70 as Nephew and Heir to William Mauduit the last Earl for all the lands descended to him by his Fathers death. At which time the K. was pleased; in conside∣ration u 1.71 of his laudable services, to accept of him, for those which were due from his said Father, unto the Exchequer, twenty pounds per annum, untill they should be run up: and in farther remuneration of his services, remitted* 1.72 ninty five pounds of the same.

As to his military actions. In 2 Edw. 1. he was sentx 1.73 with Roger de Clifford (a great Ba∣ron) and others, unto the Ford of Montgo∣mery, to examine, hear, and redress the wrongs, and trespasses done in those parts, contrary to that form of peace, which was concluded be∣twixt King Henry the third and Leweline Prince of UUales; and to rectifie all things, accor∣ding to the tenor of that agreement; at which meeting the Prince of UUales was to be; or send Commissioners on his part, to manage that business.

In 4 Edw. 1. he was madey 1.74 Captain gene∣ral of all the Kings forces in Cheshire, and Lancashire, for the defence of those Counties against the excursions of the Welch: and the next ensuing year attendedz 1.75 the King, in that notable Expedition into UUales, whereby he became victorious there.

This Earl hada 1.76 great suits with William de Breause, for the Lordship of Gowher (com∣monly called Gowher-Land) in UUales, wrongfully given by King Iohn (4 Ioh.) to William Great-Grandfather of William de Breause, whilest Henry Earl of Warwick (Ancestor to this William de Beauchamp now Earl) was in his minority; but could not recover it.

In 10 Edw. 1. he wasb 1.77 in that expedition, then made into Wales.

In 15. E. 1. he wasc 1.78 again sent into Wales, at which time he besieged the Castle of Dros∣lelan; and had two hundred and forty pounds delivered to him by the Bishop of Ely, then Lord Treasurer, for defraying his charges in that service. At that time the King being in France, constitutedd 1.79 Edmund Earl of Cornwall, his Lieutenant here in England, during his ab∣sence: who taking special care to keep all in quiet, directed his precepte 1.80 to this our Earl, and other great men; striclty requiring them, that they should not ride with armed power, in any part of the Realm, for any respect whatsoever, to the terror of the Kings leige people, and di∣sturbance of the peace: but, if any difference did arise betwixt them and others, they should make it known to the Earl of Cornwall, who would apply a timely remedy thereto.

In 20 Edw. 1. he obtained the Kings Licence f 1.81 to raise an embattled Wall about part of his Mannor House at Hanslap, in Com Buck.

In 23 Edward. 1. beingg 1.82 again in Wales, with the King, he performed a notable exploith 1.83; viz. Hearing that a great body of the Welch were got together in a plain, betwixt two Woods; and to secure themselves had fastned their Pikes to the ground sloping, towards their assailants; he marched thither with a choice company of Cross-bow-men and Archers, and in the night time, encompassing them about, put betwixt every two Horse-men, one Cross-bow-man; which Cross-bow-men killing many of them that held the Pikes; the Horse charged in sud∣denly, and made a very great slaughter. This was donei 1.84 near Montgomery.

In 24 Edw. 1. he received commandk 1.85 to be

at New-Castle upon Tine, upon the first of March, well furnished with Horse and Arms for an expedition into Scotland: and afterwards was sentl 1.86 with Iohn Earl of Surrey, to recover the Castle of Dunbar, treacherously gained by the Scots; in which action they were con∣strained to cope with the whole Army of the Scots that came to raise the siege; but at length after a sharp dispute, obtained a glorious victory; the number slain being supposed ten thousand. Which great success caused the suddain render of that Castle.

In 25 Edw. 1. he received commandm 1.87 to be at London, upon Sunday next after the Octaves of St. Iohn Baptist, well accoutred with Horse and Arms, to attend the King into Flanders; but upon farther consideration, he was appoin∣ted to stay behinde, and maden 1.88 one of the Gover∣nors of Prince Edward (then in minority) du∣ring the Kings absence; whom the King had constituted his Lieutenant for that time.

In the same year he waso 1.89 in that expedition made into Gascoigns, in which service the English raised the siege of St. Catherines. He also had the Custodyp 1.90 of the Castle and Forest of Rokingham, about that time, committed to his trust: and before the end of the same year, was appointedq 1.91 to be at New-Castle upon Tine (viz. upon S. Nicholas day) to march against the Scots, with Prince Edward: but that proved an unhappy adventure; the English Army being for the most part destroyedr 1.92, in attempting to pass the Bridge at Sterling.

It was likewise this year, and on Holy-Rood day (being in perfect health) that he made his Testaments 1.93; whereby he bequeathed his body to be buried in the Quire of the Friers-minors (commonly called the Gray-Friers) at Wor∣cester, in case he should depart this life within the compass of the four English Seas: If other∣wise, then, in the next House of Friers-Minors, to that place where his death might happen; and his Heart, wheresoever the Countess (his dear Consort) should resolve herself to be in∣terred. To which place of his burial, he be∣queathed two great Horses; viz. those which at his Funeral should carry his Armor; for the solemnizing of which Funeral he gave two hun∣dred pounds. Moreover he gave to the main∣tenance of two Souldiers in the Holy-Land, one hundred pound. To Maude his Wife, all his silver Vessel; with the Cross wherein was con∣tained part of the Wood of the very Cross, whereon our Saviour died. Likewise the vest∣ments of his Chapel, to make use of during her life; but afterwards, the best suit to Guy his eldest Son; the second suit to his Chapel of Ha••slape; and the third to his Chapel of An∣neley.* 1.94 To Guy his Son a Gold Ring, with a Ruby in it; together with his Blessing. To his said Wife a Cup, which the Bishop of Worce∣ster gave him. All his other Cups, with his lesser sort of Jewels and Rings; he likewise gave unto her, to distribute for the health of his Soul, where she should think best.

To his two Daughters, then Nunns at Shouldham, in Comit. Norf. (a Monastry of their Great-Grandfathers foundation, by the Mo∣thers side) he gave fifty marks.

As to his farther works of Piety; he was a Benefactort 1.95 to the Canons of Thelesford, in Com. War. and ratifiedu 1.96 the Grant of War∣mington, made by Henry de Newburgh, some∣time Earl of Warwick, to the Monks of Preaux, in Normandy.

He bore for his arms* 1.97 Gules, seme of Cross-Crosselets, with a Fesse Or. Which Cross-Crosse∣lets were added to his Coat; for his Father used them not; but whether in testimony of any Pil∣grimage by him made into the Holy-Land, or vow so to do, I cannot determine.

He weddedx 1.98 Maude, eldest of the four Sisters and Heirs to Richard Fitz-Iohn, Son of Iohn Fitz-Geffrey Justice of Ireland, and Widow of Gerard de Furnival; which Maud hady 1.99 for her pur∣party, of her Fathers, Lands in England, the Mannors of Chiriel, in Com. Wilts. Potters-Pirie, in Com. Northamp. and Querndon, in Com. Buck. and in Irelandz 1.100 six Villages, an half and fourth part, in that Cantred, called the Cantred of the Isles of Thomond.

And departeda 1.101 this life, either in May, or the beginning of Iune, Anno, 1298. (26 Edw. 1.) leaving Guy* 1.102 his Son and Heir, twenty six years of age; who doing his Homage 25 September following had Liveryb 1.103 of is Fathers Lands; and upon the second of Iune, next after that, performed the like Homagec 1.104 for the Lands de∣scended to him by the death of Maud his Mo∣ther, who died the same year.

¶This Guy had his name (out of doubt) in memory of that Famous Guy Earl of War∣wick, so renowned for his Valor in the Saxons times.

The same year that his Father died he had summondsd 1.105 (amongst others) to be a Carleol, on the Eve of Pentecost, well furnished with Horse and Armes, to march into Scotland; that being the time the King made his Expe∣dition, in person thither; and obtained a great Victory at Faukirk; in which Battle he beha∣ved himself so bravely; that he had, as a re∣ward e 1.106 of his Valor, all the Castles and lands, of Geffrey de Moubray lying in that Kingdom; excepting the Lordship of Okeford, near Ro••∣borough. Likewisef 1.107 all the Lands of Iohn de Strivelin: Also the Castle of Amesfeld, with the Land of Drungrey, belonging to Andrew de Charteres; whereof they the said Geffrey, Iohn, and Andrew were Seized* 1.108 upon S. Mary Mag∣dalens day, the year that Battle was fought.

In 27 Edw. 1. he wasg 1.109 again in the Wars of Scotland; and the same year imployedh 1.110 be∣yond-Sea, in the Kings service.

In 31 Edw. 1. he again attendedi 1.111 the King into Scotland; and wask 1.112 in person with him at that memorable Seige of Cae••laverock. In 32 Edward. 1. he continuedl 1.113 in those Warrs of Scotland.

In 34 E. 1. he wasm 1.114 again in Scotland.

The same year he had Summonsn 1.115 (amongst other of the Nobles) to be at Westminster, the morrow after Trinity-Sunday; there to advise with the King, concerning an Aid for the ma∣king his eldest Son Knight.

And in 35 Edw. 1. in considerationo 1.116 of his many and great services, obtained a Grantp 1.117 to himself and his Heirs, of Bernard-Castle in the Bishoprick of Durham; together with that whole Town and Lordship: Likewise of the Mannor of Middleton, with the Chases there∣to belonging, and Mannor of Gainsford,; all which Agnes the Wife of Hugh de Baillol held for life: and moreover all those Lands in that

Bishoprick, which Alianore the Wife of Alexan∣der de Baillol held for life; all which Castles, Lordships, Mannors, and Lands, were part of the possessions of Iohn de Baillol, then the Kings Enemy and Rebell.

In this 35 year K. Edwardq 1.118 lying on his death∣bed at Burg•• upon the Sands, in Cumber∣land; callingr 1.119 divers of his Nobility to him, and amongst them thiss 1.120 Earl Guy, desiredt 1.121 them to be good to his Son and not to suffer Piers Gavesto•• to return again into England.

I come now to King Edward the seconds Reign.

In 5 Edw. 2. this Guy tooku 1.122 part with Tho∣mas Earl of Lancaster, and those other Nobles; who being discontented, that Picrs Gaveston had such power with the King, as tended to the ruine of many others; puto 1.123 themselves in Arms, and took him at Scardeburg••. Whereof the King having notice, he desired to speak with him; and that his life might be saved; promising, that in all things he would satisfie their requests. Which motion and assurance, so wroughtp 1.124 upon the Earl of Pembroke (who was one of those that acted in this Tragedy) that he undertook, upon forfeiture of all he had, in case they would assent to the Kings proposals, he would take care that Piers should not escape; but, after con∣ference with the King, stand to the judgement of the Barons. Which was yeilded unto, and a day and place assigned, when he should be delivered back to them. Whereupon the Earl of Pembroke resolved to carry him to Wal∣lingford: But beingq 1.125 on his journey at De∣dington, in ••••fordshire where he had left a guard of his own servants to attend him, him∣self and his Lady lodging at the next town; this Guy Earl of Warwick, camer 1.126 in the night with a number of Armed Men, and took him back to Warwick-Castle: where, consulting with those about him, what then to do, they presently determined to cut off his head; and ac∣cordingly dids 1.127 so, upon a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ground, called 〈◊〉〈◊〉-Hill, about a mile Northwards from Warwick.

Which being done, the Friers preachers took care of his body, and conveyed it to Oxford; whence (after two years) the King removed t 1.128 it to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Herefordsrhire; causing it to be interred in the Church of the Friers-Preachers there; which he founded, to pray for the Soul of Piers and his Progenitors.

It seems that this Piers had much irritated the Earl, in callingu 1.129 him th. black Dog of Ar∣den, because he was of a swarthy complexion: but what sway the great men then bore; ha∣ving possessed* 1.130 the people, that all they did was for the honor of God, and good of the Realm, is not hard to discern: for though the King did sufficiently take this murther to heart (for it was no better) he knew not how to punish one actor in it: nay so glad he was to please them, that within two years after, he he granted* 1.131 to each of them a Pardon by particular name.

But however this Earl thus obtained pardon, I do not find, that he was heartily reconci∣led; fory 1.132, upon the Kings advance, that very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 toward Scotland; expectingz 1.133 at 〈◊〉〈◊〉, the Assistance of all those who held of 〈…〉〈…〉 military service; he declined then to do 〈◊〉〈◊〉, nay there was faitha 1.134 Walsingham la∣tens odium, a secret hatred betwixt the King and the Nobles, especially the Earls of Lancaster, and Wa••••wick, with their adherents.

And now, after all these turmoils; drawing near the end of this transitory life, in the prime of his days (being about forty-four years of age) he bestowedb 1.135 on the Monks of B••••d∣sley, for the good estate of himself, and for the health of his Father and Mothers Souls; as also for the Souls of his Ancestors and Suc∣cessors, the Advowson of the Church of Wick∣wane in Gloucestershire. How far farther he was a Benefactor to that Monastry I cannot say; but 'tis very like, that he gave somewhat more; for it appears that these Monks by their publique Instrumentc 1.136, in full chapter, granted to him and his heirs, by the attribute of Dilecto & speciali amico; their beloved and singular friend, power to present two Monks successively in their Covent; who should daily sing Mass, in the Church of that Monastry, for the health of his Soul; as also for the Souls of Earl William his Father, Maud his Mother and their Ance∣stors for ever. And besides this he was the first Founderd 1.137 of that Chantrey (or Colledge) of Priests at Elmeley, in Worcestershire.

I come now to his Testamente 1.138, which bears date at Warwick Castle, on Munday next after the Feast of S. Iames the Apostle, An. 1315. (9 Edw. 2.) by which he bequeathed his Body to sepulture in that Abbey of Bordfley; but willed, that his Funeral Rites should be perform∣ed without any great pomp.

To Alice his Wife, he devisedg 1.139 a proportion of his Plate, with a Chrystal Cup, and half his Bedding; as also, all the Vestments and Books pertaining to his Chappel; the other moity of his Beds, Rings, and Jewels, to his two Daugh∣ters; to Maud his Daughter, a Chrystal Cup; to Elizabeth his Daughter, he gave the marriage of Astleys heir, (whom she took to Husband;) to Thomas his Son, his best Coat of Mail, Hel∣met, and Suit of Harness, with all that belonged thereto; to his Son Iohn, his second Coat of Mail, Helmet, and Harness; and appointed, that all the rest of his Armor, Bows, and other war∣like provisions, should remain in Warwick Castle for his Heir: And departingh 1.140 this life at his said Castle of Warwick, upon the Twelfth of August, next following, (by poysoni 1.141, as some thought) was buriedk 1.142 in the Abbey of Bordsley before mentioned.

This Earl Guy before his death, obtained a Grant from the King, that his Executors, when it should fortune him to depart this life, might have the custody of his Lands, during the mino∣rity of his Heir; being answerable for the value of them to the Exchequer, at Michaelmass and Easter, every year: Provided, that his Castles of Elmley and Warwick, should not be dis∣posed of to any, without the Kings special Li∣cense. But notwithstanding this Grant, and a confirmationl 1.143 thereof after his death, to Iohn Hamelyn and the rest of his Exec••tors, in De∣cember next following his death; so much was the King wrought upon by those persons, whose miscarrriages, ere long, gave the discontented Nobles opportunity to work his own Ruine; that, about two years after, he passed the custo∣dy of those Castles and Lands, by a new Pa∣tent m 1.144, unto Hugh le Despencer the elder; in sa∣tisfaction

of a debt of 6770 l. due to him from the King, as it was pretended.

A word now of Alice the Wife of this great Earl. She wasn 1.145 the Daughter of Ralph de Tony, of Flamsted, in Hertfordshire, Widowo 1.146 of Thomas de Leybourne; and at length Heirp 1.147 to Robert her Brother. In November following the death of her Husband, she had assignedq 1.148 to her in Dowry, the Mannors of Hanslape, in Com. Buck. Lyghthorne, Beausale, Haseleye, Claverdon, Berkswell, with the third part of the Templars Mannor in Warwick, and Shirbourne, and diversr 1.149 Knights fees in Warwickshire. And the next year following, gave a fines 1.150 of five hundred Marks, for licence to marry with William la Zouche of Ashoy, in Com. Leicest. to whom she was accordingly wed∣ded t 1.151; and diedu 1.152 in 18 Edw. 2.

By this Alice he had issue two Sons; viz. * 1.153 Thomas, who succeeded him in this Earldom; and Iohn a Martial Knight: as also five Daugh∣ters; Maud marriedx 1.154 to Geffrey Lord Say; Emme to Rouland Odingsells; Isabel toz 1.155 ... Clinton; Elizabeth toa 1.156 Thomas Lord Astley; and Lucia b 1.157 to Robert de Napton.

But before I proceed with my discourse of Thomas his Son and Successor, I shall take leave to say something of Iohn his younger Brother.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Walter.
• a 1.2

  Cartular. Warwic•• Co∣mitum penès Dudl••um Ba∣tonem North. f. 144 a.
• b 1.3

  Ibid 121 b.
• c 1.4

  Chron. W••∣gorn. in Bibl. Co••••on. MS. 21 a.
• d 1.5

  Regist. MS. penès Dec. & cap. Wigorn.
• e 1.6

  Ex ipso Au∣togr. penès ... Comite•• Ailesbur••••••, An. 1670.
• f 1.7

  Cartular. Warw. Comitum, f. 122 b.
• * 1.8

  William.
• g 1.9

  Cartular. Warw. Comitum, f. 122 b.
• h 1.10

  Cartular. Warw. Comitum, f. 122 b.
• i 1.11

  Cartular. Warw. Comitum, f. 122 b.
• k 1.12

  H. Hunting••. 226 a. n. 50.
• l 1.13

  Cartula••. Warw. Com••tum. 121 b.
• m 1.14

  Cartula••. Warw. Com••tum. 121 b.
• n 1.15

  Cartula••. Warw. Com••tum. 121 b.
• o 1.16

  Cartula••. Warw. Com••tum. 121 b.
• p 1.17

  Cartula••. Warw. Com••tum. 121 b.
• q 1.18

  Ibid.
• r 1.19

  Ibid.
• s 1.20

  Ibid.
• t 1.21

  Rot. Pip. 2 Hen. 2. Warw.
• u 1.22

  Rot. Pip. de iisdem An. Gloc.
• x 1.23

  Rot. Pip. de iisdem An. Here••.
• y 1.24

  Lib. Rub in Scac. sub tit. Wigor••.
• z 1.25

  Monast. An∣glic Vol 1. 804 b.
• a 1.26

  Monast. An∣gli. Vol. 2. 529 b. n. 40.
• * 1.27

  William.
• a 1.28

  Rot. Pip. 6 Ric. 1. Wigorn.
• b 1.29

  Rot. Pip. 13 Joh. Wigorn.
• c 1.30

  〈…〉〈…〉
• d 1.31

  〈…〉〈…〉
• e 1.32

  〈…〉〈…〉
• f 1.33

  〈…〉〈…〉
• g 1.34

  Ibid.
• h 1.35

  Ibid.
• i 1.36

  Ibid.
• k 1.37

  Ibid.
• l 1.38

  〈…〉〈…〉
• m 1.39

  〈…〉〈…〉
• n 1.40

  〈…〉〈…〉
• o 1.41

  Claus. 1 H. 3. m. 19.
• p 1.42

  〈…〉〈…〉
• q 1.43

  〈…〉〈…〉
• r 1.44

  〈…〉〈…〉
• s 1.45

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.46

  William.
• t 1.47

  Rot. Fin 20 Hen. 3. m. 11.
• u 1.48

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.49

  Claus. 37 H. 3. m. 8.
• x 1.50

  Claus. 40. H. 3. in dorso, m. 6.
• y 1.51

  〈…〉〈…〉
• z 1.52

  〈…〉〈…〉
• a 1.53

  〈…〉〈…〉
• b 1.54

  〈…〉〈…〉
• c 1.55

  〈…〉〈…〉
• d 1.56

  〈…〉〈…〉
• e 1.57

  〈…〉〈…〉
• f 1.58

  〈…〉〈…〉
• g 1.59

  〈…〉〈…〉
• h 1.60

  〈…〉〈…〉
• i 1.61

  〈…〉〈…〉
• k 1.62

  〈…〉〈…〉
• l 1.63

  〈…〉〈…〉
• m 1.64

  〈…〉〈…〉
• o 1.65

  Claus. 52 H. 3 in dorso, m 10.
• p 1.66

  Rot. Fin. 52 Hen. 3. m. 9.
• q 1.67

  Rot. Fin. 52 Hen. 3. m. 9.
• r 1.68

  〈…〉〈…〉.
• s 1.69

  Lel. Itin. Vol. 6. f. 71.
• t 1.70

  Rot. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 52 H 3 m 9.
• u 1.71

  Ibid.
• * 1.72

  Claus. 53 H. 3. m. ••.
• x 1.73

  Claus. 2 ••. 1. m ••.
• y 1.74

  Pat. 4 E. 1. m. 2.
• z 1.75

  Pat. 5 E 1. m. 23.
• a 1.76

  Plac. de Banco, T. Pasch. 6 E. ••. Rot. 6.
• b 1.77

  Rot. Mart▪ 10 E. 1. m 5.
• c 1.78

  Claus. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 E. 1. m. ••.
• d 1.79

  〈…〉〈…〉
• e 1.80

  〈…〉〈…〉
• f 1.81

  〈…〉〈…〉
• g 1.82

  〈…〉〈…〉
• h 1.83

  〈…〉〈…〉
• i 1.84

  〈…〉〈…〉
• k 1.85

  〈…〉〈…〉
• l 1.86

  T Wals. p. 32.
• m 1.87

  Claus. 25 E.•• m. 14. 〈…〉〈…〉
• n 1.88

  Th. Wals. p. 39. n. 20.
• o 1.89

  Rot. Vascon. 25 E. 1. m. 4.
• p 1.90

  Rot. Fin. 25 E. 1. m. 8.
• q 1.91

  Claus. 25 Ed. 1 in dorso, m. 26.
• r 1.92

  Th. Wals. p. 39. n. 40.
• s 1.93

  Giff. f. 429. a.
• * 1.94

  Henley.
• t 1.95

  〈…〉〈…〉
• u 1.96

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.97

  Ex Segillo. penè. S. Ar∣ch••r equ. aur.
• x 1.98

  Rot. Fin. 26 E. 1. m. 13.
• y 1.99

  〈…〉〈…〉
• z 1.100

  〈…〉〈…〉
• a 1.101

  Esc. 26 E 1. n. 41.
• * 1.102

  Guy
• b 1.103

  Rot. Fin. 26 E. 1. m. ••.
• c 1.104

  Rot. Fin. 26 E. 1. m. 8.
• d 1.105

  Claus. 26. E. 1 in dorso. m. 6.
• e 1.106

  Cartular. War. Com. f. 174. b.
• f 1.107

  Cartular. War. Com. f. 174. b.
• * 1.108

  Th. Wal. p. 42. n. 40.
• g 1.109

  Rot. Scoc. 27 E. 1. m. 16.
• h 1.110

  Pat. 27. E 1. m. 25.
• i 1.111

  Fx ve•• Rot. penès W••le Neve eq aur Cl.
• k 1.112

  Fx ve•• Rot. penès W••le Neve eq aur Cl.
• l 1.113

  Rot Scoc. 32 E. 1. m. 2.
• m 1.114

  〈…〉〈…〉
• n 1.115

  Claus. 34 Edw. 1. in dorso, m. 16. in 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• o 1.116

  〈…〉〈…〉
• p 1.117

  〈…〉〈…〉
• q 1.118

  Lel Col. Vol. 1. 664.
• r 1.119

  Lel Col. Vol. 1. 664.
• s 1.120

  Lel Col. Vol. 1. 664.
• t 1.121

  Lel Col. Vol. 1. 664.
• u 1.122

  Th. Wals. p. 74. n. 40.
• o 1.123

  Ibid. p. 75. n. 30.
• p 1.124

  Ibid. n. 40.
• q 1.125

  Ibid. p. 76.
• r 1.126

  〈…〉〈…〉
• s 1.127

  〈…〉〈…〉
• t 1.128

  Ibid. n. 20.
• u 1.129

  Ibid. p. 76. n. 10.
• * 1.130

  Ibid. p. 74. n. 30. & 70. n. 10.
• * 1.131

  〈…〉〈…〉
• y 1.132

  〈…〉〈…〉
• z 1.133

  〈…〉〈…〉
• a 1.134

  〈…〉〈…〉
• b 1.135

  Cartular. War. Con. 134 a.
• c 1.136

  Ibid. f. 34. ••.
• d 1.137

  Rot. J. 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• e 1.138

  Mayd. f. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. a.
• g 1.139

  Ibid.
• h 1.140

  〈…〉〈…〉
• i 1.141

  〈…〉〈…〉
• k 1.142

  〈…〉〈…〉
• l 1.143

  〈…〉〈…〉
• m 1.144

  〈…〉〈…〉
• n 1.145

  Rot. J. Ro••s.
• o 1.146

  Esc. 10 E. 2.
• p 1.147

  Rot Fin. 3 Edw. ••. m. 7.
• q 1.148

  Claus. 9 H. 2. m. 22.
• r 1.149

  Ibid. m. 13.
• s 1.150

  Rot. Fin. 10 E. 2. m. 12.
• t 1.151

  〈…〉〈…〉
• u 1.152

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.153

  〈…〉〈…〉
• x 1.154

  〈…〉〈…〉
• z 1.155

  〈…〉〈…〉
• a 1.156

  〈…〉〈…〉
• b 1.157

  〈…〉〈…〉