Camden's Britannia newly translated into English, with large additions and improvements ; publish'd by Edmund Gibson ...

The Degrees of ENGLAND.

AS to the division of our State, it consists of a King or Monarch, the Nobles, Ci∣tizens, Free-men (which we call Yeomen) and Tradesmen.

The KING,* 1.1 stiled by our Ancestors Coning, and Cyning, (e 1.2 a name under which is coucht both power and wisdom) by us contracted into King, has in these Kingdoms the supreme power, and a meer govern∣ment: nor holds he his Empire by vassalage, neither does he receive Investiture from another, nor own any superior,* 1.3 but God. And as that Oracle of Law has delivered it, Every one is under him, and himself un∣der none, but only God. He has very many Rights of Majesty peculiar to himself, (which the learned in the law term The Holy of Holies and Individuals, because they are inseparable; but the common people, The King's Prerogative;) and those, they tell us, are deno∣ted by the flowers in the King's Crown. Some of these the King enjoys by a written Law, others by Right of custom, which without a law is established by a tacit consent of the whole body: and surely he deserves them,* 1.4 since by his watchfulness every man's house, by his labour every man's ease, by his industry every one's pleasure, and by his toil every one's recreation is secured to him. But these things are too sublime to belong pro∣perly to my business.

Next the King is his eldest son; and as he amongst the Romans that was designed for the Successor,* 1.5 was first called Prince of the youth,* 1.6 and as flattery prevail'd, afterwards Caesar, Noble Caesar, and the most noble Cae∣sar; so ours was by our Saxon Ancestors termed Aetheling,* 1.7 i.e. noble, and in Latin Clyto,* 1.8 from the Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, famous; that age affecting the Greek tongue. Upon which, that saying concerning Ead∣gar, the last heir male of the English Crown, is still kept up, Eadgar, Eðeling, Englands Searling, i.e. Eadgar the noble, England's darling. And in the antient Latin Charters of the Kings, we often read, Ego E. vel AE. Clyto, the King's son. But the name of Clyto I have observed to be given to the King's children in general. After the Norman Conquest, he had no standing honorary title, nor any other that I know of, but barely The King's Son, or The King's eldest Son; till Edward I. summoned to Parliament his son Ed∣ward under the title of Prince of Wales,* 1.9 and Earl of Chester; to whom he granted also afterwards the Dukedom of Aquitain. And this, when he came to be King Edward II. summoned his son Edward to Parliament, then scarce ten years old, under the title of Earl of Chester and Flint. But that Edward com∣ing to the Crown, created Edward his son, a most accomplisht soldier, Duke of Cornwal; since which time the King's eldest sonf 1.10 is born Duke of Cornwall. And a little after, he honoured the same person with the title of Prince of Wales, by a solemn Investiture. The Principality of Wales was conferred upon him in these words, to be held by him and his heirs Kings of England. And as the heirs apparent of the Roman Empire were (as I observed but just now) called Caesars; of the Grecian, Despotae, Lords; those of the Kingdom of France, Dauphins; and of Spain, Infan∣tes: so those of England have been since that time stiled Princes of Wales. And that title continued till the time of Henry VIII. when Wales was entirely united to the Kingdom of England. But now the formerly divided Kingdoms of Britain being reduced into one, under the government of the most potent King James; his eldest son Henry, the darling and delight of Britain, is called Prince of Great Britain: whom, as nature has made capable of the greatest things, so, that God would bless him with the high∣est virtues, and a lasting honour, that his success may outdo both our hopes of him, as also the atchieve∣ments and high character of his forefathers, by a long and prosperous Reign, is the constant and hearty prayer of all Britain.

Our Nobles are divided into Greater and Less. The Greater Nobles we call Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, and Barons; who either enjoy these titles by an hereditary claim, or have them conferred on them by the King as a reward of their merits.

A DUKE* 1.11 is the next title of honour to the Prince. At first this was a name of office, not of honour. About the time of Aelius Verus, those who were ap∣pointed to guard the Frontiers were first called Dukes; and this title in Constantine's time was inferiour to that of a Count. After the destruction of the Ro∣man Empire, this title still continued to be the name of an Office; and those amongst us who in the Saxon times are stiled Dukes in such great numbers, by the antient Charters, are in the English tongue only cal∣led Ealdormen. The same also who are named Dukes, are likewise termed Counts: for instance, most peo∣ple call William the Conqueror of England Duke of Normandy, whereas William of Malmesbury writes him Count of Normandy. However, that both Duke and Count were names of Office,* 1.12 is plain from the form of each's creation, which we find in Marculph, an antient writer. The Royal clemency is particularly signalized upon this account, that among all the people, the good and the watchful are singled out; nor is it convenient to commit the judiciary power to any one, who has not first

approved his loyalty and valour. Since we••t therefore seem to have sufficiently experienced your fidelity and usefulness, we commit to you the power of a Count, Duke, or* 1.13 Presi∣dent, in that Lordship which your predecessor governed, to act in and rule over it. Still upon this condition, that you are entirely true to our government; and all the people with∣in those limits may live under and be swayed by your go∣vernment and authority; and that you rule justly according to law and their own customs: that you zealously protect widows and orphans; that you severely punish the crimes of robbers and malefactors; so that those who live regularly under your government, may be cheerful and undisturbed: and that whatever profit arises from such actions to the Ex∣chequer, you your self bring yearly into our coffers.

It began to be an honorary title under Otho the Great,* 1.14 about the year 970. For he, in order to bind valiant and prudent persons more effectually to his own interest, honour'd them with what he call'd* 1.15 Royal∣ties. Those Royalties were either Dignities or Lands in Fee. The Dignities were those of Dukes, Marquisses, Counts, Captains, Valvasors, and Valvasins. An here∣ditary title came but late into France; not before Philip 3. King of France, granted, that for the fu∣ture they should be called Dukes of Britain, who were before stiled promiscuously Dukes and Counts. But in England in the Norman times, when the Norman Kings themselves were Dukes of Normandy, there were none had that honour conferr'd upon them for a long time; till Edward 3. created Edward his son Duke of Cornwall, by a wreath on his head, a ring on his finger, and a* 1.16 and a † silver verge: as the Dukes of Nor∣mandy were formerly, by a sword and a banner de∣livered to them, and afterwards by girding the sword of the Dutchy, and by a circlet of gold garnished on the top with little golden roses. And the same King Edward 3.* 1.17 created his two sons, Leonel, Duke of Clarence, and John, Duke of Lancaster, in Parlia∣ment,

By the putting on a sword, setting upon their heads a furr'd cap, with a circle of gold set with pearls, and by the delivery of a Charter.

After this, he created several: and there have been now and then hereditary Dukes made in this Kingdom, with such like expressions in the Charter: the name, title, state, stile, place, seat, preheminence, honour, authority and dig∣nity of a Duke, we give and grant; and do really invest you with them, by the putting on a sword, setting a cap with a golden circle upon your head, and the delivery of a golden verge.

* 1.18A MARQUISS (i.e.g 1.19 according to the im∣port of the word, one set to guard the limits) is a title of honour, the second from a Duke. This title we had but late, none being invested with it before the time of Richard 2. For he created his darling Robert Vere Earl of Oxford, Marquiss of Dublin; and that was merely titular. For those who were formerly to secure the frontiers, were commonly called Lord Mar∣chers, and not Marquisses, as we now stile them. They are created by the King, by girding on a sword, putting on a Cap of honour and dignity,1 1.20 and delivering a Charter. And here I shall take the liberty of relating what I find register'd in the Parliament-rolls.* 1.21 When John de Beau∣fort, Earl of Somerset, was made Marquiss of Dor∣set by Richard 2. and was deprived of that title by Henry 4. the Commons of England in Parliament made an humble Request to the King, that he would restore to him the title of Marquiss; but he himself opposed his own cause, and openly declared that it was an upstart dignity, altogether unknown to our Ancestors; and therefore that he did not by any means desire it, nay, utterly refused it.

* 1.22The EARLS which hold the third place, we seem to have had from our German Ancestors. For, as Tacitus tells us, they had always* 1.23 Earls attending their Princes to furnish them with counsel, and to gain them authority. But others are of opinion, that both the Franks and we received them from the Romans. For the Emperors, after the Empire was come to its height, began to keep about them a sort of domestick Senate, which was call'd Caesar's† 1.24 retinue; and these, by whose counsel they acted in war and peace, were called Comites [Attendants;] from whence we find it common in old Inscriptions Comiti Impp. This name in a few years prevailed so much, that all Magistrates had the name of Comites* 1.25 who gave their attendance at the said Council, or had been of it; in∣somuch that it was afterwards extended to all who had the supervisal of any business, and Suidas (as Cujacius has told us) defined Comes, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, a Governour of the people. From whence also we gather, that before Constantine the Great, the name of Comes was not used to denote Dignity. But he modelling the Ro∣man government by new distinctions, and endea∣vouring to oblige as many as possible by bestowing honours upon them, first instituted the title of Comes, as barely honorary, without any duty: nay there were certain rights and privileges annex'd to that title; as, to accompany the Prince not only when he appeared in publick, but also in his palace and private retirements; to be admitted to his table, and to his secret consultations. Upon which we read in Epiphanius, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, &c. i.e. Who also had ob∣tained of the King the Dignity of a Count. At length, such as had the favour of this title, had other honours conferr'd upon them, to which some duty was an∣next; and again, to those who were before in Offices, and were engaged in the affairs of State, he added this piece of honour.2 1.26 Hereupon, the name of Count implied both Dignity and Government; and being at first but temporary, it was afterwards for term of life. But when the Roman Govern∣ment was divided into several Kingdoms, this title was still retained, and our Saxons call'd those in Latin Comites, which in their own tongue were named Ealdormen. The same persons were stil'd by the Danes in their language Eorlas, i.e. honourable men,* 1.27 as Ethelwerd tells us; and by a little melting of that word, we call them at this day Earls. And for a long time they were simply so called, till at last an addition was made of the place's name over which they had ju∣risdiction. But still this Dignity was not yet heredi∣tary. The first hereditary Earls in France, by the way, were the Earls of Bretagne. But when William the Norman, and Conqueror, had in his hands the Government of this Kingdom, the Earls began to be Feudal, hereditary, and patrimonial: and those too (as appears from Domesday) were stil'd simply Earls, without any addition, as, Earl Hugh, Earl Alan, Earl Roger, &c. Afterwards, as appears by ancient Records, the Earls were created, with an addition of the name of the place, and had every third penny of the County assigned them. For instance; Mawd the Empress, daughter and heir of King Henry 1. created an Earl by this form of words, as is manifest from the very Charter, now in my hands. I Mawd, daughter of K. Henry, and Governess of the English, do give and grant to Gaufred de Magnavilla for his service, and to his heirs after him hereditarily, the Earldom of Essex; and that he have the third penny out of the She∣riff's Court, issuing out of all pleas, as an Earl ought to receive from his County in all things. And this is the most ancient Creation-Charter I ever saw. Like∣wise Hen. II. King of England, created an Earl in these words, Know ye that we have made Hugh Bigod, Earl of Norfolk, namely of the third penny of Norwie and Norfolk, so that no Earl in England shall hold his County more freely. Which an ancient Book belong∣ing to Battle-Abbey explains thus: It was an ancient custom through all England, that the Earls of Counties should have the third penny for their own use; from whence they were call'd Comites, Earls. And another anonymous Author delivers it more distinctly. Co∣mitatus is call'd from Comes, or else this from the for∣mer. Now he is Comes, an Earl, because he enjoys in every County the third part of the profits arising from the Pleas. But yet all Earls do not enjoy them, but such only who have them granted by the King hereditarily or

personally. So that Polidore Virgil, as to the custom of the present age, delivers this matter right; It is a custom in England, that titles from Counties shall be dis∣posed of at the pleasure of the Prince, even without the pos∣session of such places from whence they derive their title. Upon which account, the King usually gives to such as have no possessions in the County, in lieu of that, a certain an∣nual pension out of the Exchequer.

They were formerly created without any farther ceremony than the bare delivery of the Charter. Under Stephen, who seiz'd the Crown whilst the Kingdom was embroiled with civil wars, there were several who seized the title of Earl, whom the Hi∣story of the Church of Waverly calls* 1.28 false Earls, and imaginary Earls, where it tells us how Henry 2. eje∣cted them. But King John (as far as my observation has carried me) was the first that used the girding with a sword.* 1.29 For Roger of Hoveden writes thus: King John, on his Coronation-day, girt William Marshall with the sword of the County of† 1.30 Strigulia, and Geffry the son of Peter, with that of the County of Essex; and those, tho' they were before that called Earls, and had the government of their Counties, were not yet girt with the sword of the County; but that very day they served at the King's table with their swords on. In the following age there was an additional ceremony of putting on a cap with a golden circle (which is now changed into a Coronet with rays) and a* 1.31 Robe of State. Which three, namely a sword and a belt, a cap with a Coronet, and a Robe of State, are at this day car∣ried by so many several Earls before him who is to be created; and then he is introduced to the King set upon his Throne, between two Earls in Robes of State, and himself in a† 1.32 Surcoat; where kneeling up on his knees, whilst the Instrument of his Creation is read, at these words, The same T. we advance, create, honour, prefer to, and constitute Earl of S. and according∣ly give, grant, and by the girding of a sword really invest in him the name, title, state, honour, authority and dig∣nity of Earl of S. the King puts on him the long robe, hangs a sword at his neck, puts a Cap with a Coronet upon his head, and delivers into his hand the Instru∣ment of his Creation, so soon as 'tis read. But these things do not properly belong to my design. But as to a custom now in use, that whoever is to be crea∣ted Earl, if he be not a Baron before, must first be advanced to the dignity of a Baron; it is a new upstart thing, and only practised since King Henry the 8th's days. Now amongst the Earls [or Counts] those were by much the most honourable, who were cal∣ledh 1.33 Counts Palatine.* 1.34 For as the Title of Palatine was a name common to all who had any office in the King's Palace,* 1.35 so that of Count Palatine was a title of honour conferr'd upon such who were before Palatini, with the addition of a Royal authority to judge in their own territory.3 1.36

After the Earls, the VICOUNTS* 1.37 follow next in order, called in Latin Vice-comites. This, as to the office, is an antient title, but as to the dignity but mo∣dern; for it was never heard of amongst us before Henry the sixth's time.4 1.38

Amongst the Greater Nobility, the BARONS* 1.39 have the next place. And here, tho' I am not igno∣rant what the learned write concerning the significa∣tion of this word in Cicero; yet I am willing to close with the opinion of Isidore, and an antient Gram∣marian, who will have Barons to be mercenary Soldi∣ers. This that known place of Hirtius in The Alex∣andrian war seems to make pretty evident. It is thus: They run to the assistance of Cassius: for he always used to have Barons, and a good number of Soldiers for sudden oc∣casions, with their weapons ready about him. Nor is the old Latin and Greek Glossary against us, which trans∣lates Baro by 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, a man; as always in the Laws of the Longobards Baro is used for a man. But the ety∣mologies of the name, which some have hammered out, do not by any means please me. The French Heraulds will have Barons to be from Par-hommes in the French, that is, of equal dignity; the English Law∣yers, as much as to say robora belli, the sinews of war; some Germans think it is as much as Banner-heirs, i.e. Standard-bearers; and Isidore, to be from 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, i.e. grave or weighty.* 1.40 Alciatus thinks the name comes from the Berones, an antient nation of Spain, which he says were formerly stipendiaries; but that from the German Bar, i.e. a free man, pleases me better.* 1.41 The precise time when this name came into our Island, I have not discovered: the Bri∣tains disown it; there is not the least mention made of it in the Saxon Laws, nor is it reckoned in Alfrick's Saxon Glossary amongst the titles of honour; for there Dominus is turned Laford, which we have contracted into Lord.* 1.42 And among the Danes the free Lords, such as those Barons are at this day, were called Thanes, and (as Andreas Velleius witnesses) are still so termed. In Burgundy the use of this name is very antient: for we find in Gregory of Tours,* 1.43 The Barons of Burgundy, as well Bishops as those of the Laity. The first mention of a Baron with us, that I have met withal, is in a Fragment of the Laws of Canu∣tus King of England and Denmark; and even in that, according to different copies, it is read Vironis, Ba∣ronis, and Thani. But that the Barons are there meant, is plain from the Laws of William the Con∣queror, amongst which are inserted those of Canutus, translated into Norman, where it is writ Baron. Take the whole passage. But let the* 1.44 Exercituals be so mo∣derated as to be tolerable. An Earl shall provide those ••hings that are fitting, eight horses, four saddled and four unsaddled; four steel caps, and four coats of mail; eight javelins, and as many shields; four swords, and two hundred maucae of gold. But a King's Viron, or Baron, who is next to him, shall have four horses, two saddled and two unsaddled; two swords, four javelins, and as many shields, one steel cap, and fifty† 1.45 maucae of gold.

In the beginning also of the Norman times, the Valvasors and Thanes were reckoned in dignity next the Earls and Barons; and the Greater Valvasors (if we may believe those who have writ concerning Feu∣dal-tenures) were the same as Barons are now. So that Baro may seem to come from that name; which time has by little and little made better and smoother. But even then it was not so very honourable; for in those times there were some Earls who had their Ba∣rons under them: and I remember I have read in the antient Constitutions of France, that there were ten Barons under one Earl, and as many* 1.46 Chieftans under a Baron. 'Tis likewise certain that there are extant some Charters since the Norman Conquest, wherein the Earls write thus, To all my Barons, as well French as English, greeting, &c. Nay, even citizens of the better rank were called Barons; so in Domesday-book the citizens of Warwick are stiled Barons; and the citizens of London, with the Inhabitants of the Cinque Ports, enjoyed the same title. But a few years after, as Senators of Rome were chosen by their e∣states, so those were accounted Barons with us, who held their lands by an entire Barony, or 13 Knights fees and one third of a Knight's fee, every fee (as we have it in an antient Book) being computed at twenty pounds, which in all make 400 Mark. For that was the value of one entire Barony; and they that had lands and revenues to this value, were wont to be summoned to Par∣liaments. It seems to have been a dignity with a juris∣diction, which the Court-Barons* 1.47 (as they call them) do in some measure show. And the great number of Barons too, would persuade us that they were Lords who could give judgment within their own jurisdiction, (such as those are whom the Germans call Free-heirs) especially if they had their castles; for then they an∣swered to the definition of Baldus, that famous Law∣yer, who calls him a Baron, that had a† 1.48 mere and mixt government in some one Castle, by the grant of the Prince. And all they (as some would have it) who held Ba∣ronies, seem to have claimed that honour; so that some of our Lawyers think that Baron and Barony,

Earl and Earldom, Duke and Dukedom, King and Kingdom,* 1.49 were as it were Conjugates. 'Tis certain in that age K. Henry 3d reckoned 150 Baronies in England. Upon which it comes to pass, that in the Charters and Histories of that age, almost all Noble∣men are stil'd Barons; a term in those times exceed∣ing honourable,* 1.50 the Baronage of England, including in a manner all the prime Orders of the Kingdom, Dukes, Marquisses, Earls, and Barons. But that name has come to the greatest honour, since King Henry 3d, out of such a multitude of them which was seditious and turbulent, summoned to Parlia∣ment by his Writs some of the best only. For he (the words are taken out of an Author of conside∣rable Antiquity) after those great disturbances, and enor∣mous vexations between the King himself, Simon de Mon∣tefort, and other Barons, were laid; appointed and or∣dained, that all such Earls and Barons of the Kingdom of England, to whom the King should vouchsafe to direct his Writs of summons, should come to his Parliament, and no others, unless their Lord the King please to direct other Writs to them also. But what he begun only a little before his death, was strictly observed by Ed∣ward the First and his successors. From that time, those were only looked upon as Barons of the King∣dom,* 1.51 whom the King by such Writs of summons (as they term them) should call to Parliament5 1.52; until Richard the 2d, the 10th of October, in the eleventh year of his reign, created John de Beauchamp of Holt, Baron of Kederminster, by the delivery of a Diploma. From which time, the Kings have often conferred that honour by a Diploma, or rather honorary Let∣ters, and the putting on of a long robe. And at this day, this way of creating Barons by a Diploma, and that other of Writs of summons are in use, though they are greeted not under the name of Baron, but of Chevalier6 1.53. Those that are thus created, are call'd Barons of Parliament, Barons of the Kingdom, and Barons honorary, to distinguish them from those which are commonly call'd Barons according to the ancient constitution, as those of Burford and Walton, and such as were Barons to the Count Palatines of Che∣ster, and of Penbroch, who were feudal, and Barons by tenure.

Those Parliamentary Barons are not (like those of France and Germany) call'd barely by that name; but are by birth, Peers, Noblemen, Great States, and Counsellors of the Kingdom; and are summon'd by the King in this form, to treat of the weighty affairs of the nation, and to deliver their judgment upon them. They have their peculiar immunities and privileges, as, in criminal causes, to be judged by their Peers only; not to have an oath demanded of them, but in such case 'tis sufficient if they deliver any thing upon honour; not to be called among the Jury of twelve to enquire into matters of fact; not to be liable to the Writs Supplicavit, Capias, Essoins; and a great many other privileges which I leave to the Lawyers, whose proper business it is to treat of these, and things of the like nature.

Besides these, the two Archbishops, and all the Bishops of England,* 1.54 are also Barons of the Kingdom, or Parliamentary Barons; as also were (in the me∣mory of our grandfathers) several belonging to Mo∣nasteries, whereof this is a List.

Abbots of

• ...* 1.55Glassenbury.
• ...St. Austin's, Canterbury.
• ...St. Peter's, Westminster.
• ...St. Albans.
• ...St. Edmundsbury.
• ...Peterburgh.
• St. John's of Colchester.
• ...Evesham.
• ...Winchelcomb.
• ...Crowland.
• ...Battaile.
• ...Reding.
• ...Abingdon.
• ...Waltham. S. Cross.
• ...Shrewsbury.
• ...Cirencester.
• St. Peter's at Glocester.
• ...Bardney.
• S. Benedict of Hulm.
• ...Thorney.
• ...Ramsey.
• ...Hyde.
• ...Malmesbury.
• St. Marie's at York.
• ...Selbey.

Prior of

• ...Coventry.
• The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, com∣monly stil'd Master of the Knights of St. John, and would be counted the first Baron of England.

To these (as to this day to the Bishops) it be∣long'd by right and custom, in every Parliament (as the Publick Records word it) to be present in person as Peers of the Realm along with the rest of the Peers, to consult, treat, order, decree, and define, by virtue of their Baronies held of the King. For King William the first (as the Ecclesiasticks of that age complain'd, though those of the next look'd upon it as their greatest glory) put the Bishopricks and Abbies (holding Baronies in Frank almoigne,* 1.56 and so free from all secular services) under military service, enrolling every Bishoprick and Abbey, according to the number of souldiers he and his successors might demand in times of war.

Since that, the Ecclesiastical Barons enjoy all the immunities which the other Barons of the Realm do; except, that they are not judged by their Peers. For as they, by the Canons of the Church, are not to be present at sanguinary causes, so in the same causes they themselves are to be judged in matters of fact by twelve Jury-men. But whether this be agreeable to the strict rules of the Law, let the Lawyers deter∣mine.

Vavasors* 1.57 or Valvasors formerly took place next the Barons, derived by Lawyers from Valvae, folding-doors; a dignity that seems to have come to us from the French.* 1.58 For whilst their dominion in Italy last∣ed, they call'd those Valvasors, who govern'd the common people or part of them under the Duke, Marquiss, Earl, or Chieftain, and (as Butler the Lawyer words it)

Had a full power of punishing, but not the right of fairs and markets.

This is a piece of honour, never much in vogue among us; or how much soever it was, it is now long since by degrees quite disused. In Chaucer's age it was not very con∣siderable, as appears from what he says of his Fran∣kelin, or free-holder.

A Sheriff had he been, and a contour Was no where soch a worthy Vavasour.

The Lesser Noblemen are the Knights, Esquires,* 1.59 and those which we commonly call Gentlemen.

Knights, call'd by our English Lawyers in Latin Milites, have almost in all Nations had their name from horses. Thus they are called Cavelliers by the Italians, Chevalier by the French, Reuter by the Ger∣mans, Marchog by the Welsh, all with respect to riding. They are called Knights only by the English, a word in the ancient English, as also German tongue, signifying promiscuously servant, or one that does service, and a young man. Upon which in the old Saxon Gospels the Disciples are call'd Leornung cnyhts; and in another place we read Incnyht for a Client, and our Common Lawyer, Bracton, mentions the Radcnihtes, i.e. Serving horsemen; who held lands upon this condi∣tion, that they should furnish their Lord with horses: from whence by shortning the name (as we English love contractions) I was perswaded long since that Knights remains now in use with us.

But for what reason the Laws of our own Country,* 1.60 and all the Writers since the Norman Conquest, should term them in Latin Milites, I do not well ap∣prehend. Not but I know, that in the decline of the Roman Empire, the name of Milites was trans∣ferr'd to such as were always about the King's body, and had the more considerable employments in the Prince's retinue. But if I know any thing of this matter, the first who were call'd so among us, were they that held beneficiary lands or in fee, for their ser∣vice in the wars. For those fees were called Militarie, and they that in other places are term'd Feudataries, were with us stil'd Milites, souldiers, (as the Milites or souldiers of the King, of the Archbishop of Canter∣bury, of Earl Roger, of Earl Hugh, &c.) because

they had by these persons lands bestowed upon them on this condition, that they should fight for them, and pay them fealty and homage, whereas others who served in the wars† 1.61 for so much in money, were call'd Solidarii, and Servientes. However these (Milites or Equites, which you please) are fourfold with us. The most honourable are those of the Order of S. George's Garter; the second, the Bannerets; the third, of the Bath; and the fourth such as we call in English simply Knights, and in Latin Equites aurati, or Milites, with∣out any addition. Of the Knights of the Order of S. George I will speak in their proper place, when I come to Windsor. Of the rest in this place briefly.

* 1.62Banerets, otherwise, but falsly, call'd Baronets, have their name from a banner; for they were allowed up∣on the account of their military bravery to use a square banner as well as the Barons; and from thence they are by some truly call'd Equites Vexillarii, and by the Germans Banner-heires. I cannot trace their antiquity beyond the times of Edward the third, when Eng∣land was at it's height for martial discipline; so that till time sets this matter in a clearer light, I must be∣lieve that this honorary title was then first invented as a reward to warlike courage. In the publick Records of that age, among the military titles of Banerets, there is mention also made of Homines ad vexillum,* 1.63 men at the banner, and of homines ad arma, men attending in arms; which last seem to be the same with that other. And I have read a Charter of King Edward the Third's, whereby he advanced John Coupland (for taking David, second King of Scots, in a battle at Durham) to the honour of a Baneret, in these words; Desiring so to reward the said John, who took David de Bruis, and cheerfully delivered him up to us, and to set such a mark upon his loyalty and valour, as may give others example to serve us faithfully for the fu∣ture, we have advanced the said John to the Quality of a Baneret; and to support that title, have for us and our heirs granted to the same John the sum of 500 l. yearly, to him and his heirs, &c. Nor may it be improper to mention out of Frossardus, the form by which John Chandos, a celebrated souldier in his time, was made Baneret. When Edward Prince of Wales was ready to engage Henry the Bastard, and the French, in favour of Peter King of Castile, John Chandos came to the Prince, and delivered into his hands his ban∣ner folded, with these words; My Lord, this is my banner, may it please you to unfold it, that I may this day carry it. For I have, by the blessing of God, sufficient re∣venues for this. The Prince and Peter King of Ca∣stile who stood by him, took the banner in their hands, and restored it unfolded, with words to this purpose, Sir John, as you expect success and glory, act with courage, and shew what a man you are. Having received the banner, he returned to his men joyful, and holding it up, Fellow-souldiers (says he) behold my banner and yours, if you defend it stoutly as your own. In after ages, whoever was to be dignified with this honour (either before a battle, to excite their cou∣rage, or after, as a reward to their bravery) was brought before the King or his General, carrying an oblong Ensign call'd Pennon (wherein his Arms were painted) and going between two of the senior Knights, with Trumpeters and Heralds before him; and either the King or General wishing him success, commanded the end of the Pennon to be cut off, that so the ban∣ner instead of an oblong might be made a square.

* 1.64As for the Milites or Equites Balnei, (Knights of the Bath) I have observed nothing more ancient of them, than that this dignity was in use among the old Franks; and that Henry the Fourth King of England, on the day of his Coronation, in the Tower of London, conferred Knighthood upon forty six Esquires, who had watched all night before, and had bathed themselves: that he gave to every one of them a green side-coat reaching down to the ancle, strait sleev'd, and furr'd with minivere, and having on the left shoulder two white silk twists hanging loose, with† 1.65 tassels at them. These in the last age were such of the greatest of the Nobility as had not been before Knighted, chosen to this honour at the Coronation of the Kings and Queens, or at their marriages; nay sometimes, when their sons were made Princes of Wales, created Dukes, or made Knights. It was then done with a deal of Ceremonies, which are now in a great measure left off. At present those who are appointed by the King to be thus honour'd (I do not intend to give a full account of this Order) the day before their Creation put on a gray Hermit ha∣bit, a hood, a linnen Coif, and a pair of boots, and in that dress go devoutly to divine service, to begin their warfare there, as principally designed for the honour and service of God. They sup together that night, each one being attended by two Esquires, and a Page; after supper they withdraw to their bed-chamber, where there is prepared for each of them a little bed with red curtains, and the arms of their fa∣milies upon them; with a bathing Vessel close by co∣vered with a linnen cloth, where after prayers they wash themselves, to put them in mind, that they ought to keep their bodies and minds undefiled for ever after. Pretty early next morning they are a∣wakened with musick, and dress themselves in the same habit. Then the High Constable, the Earl Mar∣shal, and others appointed by the King, go to them, call them out in order, and give them an oath to fear God, defend his Church, honour the King, main∣tain his prerogative, and protect widows, virgins, orphans, and all others, as far as they are able, from in∣jury and oppression. After they have taken this oath, they are conducted to morning prayer, with the King's musick, and the Heralds before them: and from thence to their chamber again, where they put off their Hermits habit, and dress themselves in a mantle of red Taffata, bright and shining with that martial colour, a white hat adorn'd with a plume of white feathers over their linnen coife, with a pair of white gloves hanging at the pendant cordon of their mantle. Then they take Horse; which are accouter'd with black saddles and other furniture of the same colour, specked with white, and a cross on their forehead. Each of them has his Page on horse-back, carrying a sword with a gilded hilt, at which there hang golden spurs; and the Esquires ride on both sides of them. In this state, with trumpets blowing before them, they march to Court, where they are con∣ducted by the two eldest Knights into the Kings pre∣sence; then the Page delivers the belt and the sword hanging in it to the Lord Chamberlain, and he with great reverence gives it to the King, who puts it on overthwart the Knight, and orders the senior Knights there to put on the spurs. These were formerly wont after wishing them joy, to kiss the knees of the person to be Knighted. After this Creation, they us'd heretofore to serve up the dishes at the King's table, and afterwards dine together; sitting all on the same side of the table each under an Escutcheon of his own Arms. At evening prayer again they repair to the Chapel, offer their swords upon the altar, then lay down money and redeem them. As they return, the King's head Cook stands with his knife in his hand, exhorting them to shew themselves faithful and worthy Knights, or he'll cut off their spurs with disgrace and infamy. At the Coronation they attend the King in this pomp, with their swords about them, their spurs on, and attired in a blue mantle, that being the colour of* 1.66 a clear Sky; with a knot of white silk made like a cross, and a hood upon the left shoulder. But this may very well suffice upon a subject which is not particularly within the compass of my design.* 1.67

Now for those Knights simply so called without other addition; an Order though lowest at this day, yet of greatest antiquity and honour in the first In∣stitution. For, as the Romans, whose habit was a gown, gave the same to all that arrived at the years of manhood; so our ancestors the Germans present∣ed their youth with arms as soon as they were found of ability to manage them.* 1.68 All this we may learn from Corn. Tacitus in these words. No one by custom was to take arms, till the city judged him able to bear them. And then in the assembly it self, either one of the great men, the father, or one of the person's relations, ho∣noured him with a shield and javelin. This is the gown with them, this is the first honour conferred upon their youth: before this they seem to be only members of a fa∣mily, but from that time of the Commonweal••••

Now seeing these military young men were call'd by them in their language Knechts, as they are in

ours; I am of opinion that the original both of the name and institution is to be deriv'd from hence. This was the primitive, and most plain method of creating Knights; that which was in use among the Longobards, the Franks, our fore-fathers, all of them descended from the Germans. Paulus Diaconus tells us of a custom among the Longobards,* 1.69 that the King's son is not permitted to dine with his father, till arms are bestowed upon him by the King of some foreign Nation. And we find in the Histories of the old Franks, that their Kings gave arms to their sons and others, and girt them with a sword; and Malmesbury is evidence, that our King Alfred conferred Knighthood upon his* 1.70 nephew Athelstan, a very hopeful youth, giving him a scarlet mantle, a belt set with jewels, and a Saxon sword with a golden scabbard. Afterwards, when Religion had gained so much respect in the world, that nothing was to be done well or success∣fully, unless Religious men had a hand in it; our An∣cestors a little before the coming in of the Normans, were wont to receive the sword from them. This Ingulphus (who lived at that time) shews us. He that was to be consecrated to lawful warfare, did the even∣ing before make confession of his sins with great sorrow to some Bishop, Abbot, Monk, or Priest, and being ab∣solved, spent that night in the Church, in order to hear Divine service next day; then he offer'd his sword upon the altar, and after the gospel, the Priest put it, as 'twas then hallowed, with a blessing, upon the Knight; and thus having received the sacrament, he became a lawful Knight. Nor was this custom presently in disuse a∣mong the Normans. For John of Salisbury says in his Polycraticon: There was a custom, that on the very day, when any one was Knighted, he went to the Church, and putting his sword upon the altar, offered it there; as if by this solemn profession, he had devoted himself to the service of the altar, and obliged himself to be ever ready to assist it with his sword, that is, do his duty to it. Petrus Blesensis also writes thus:* 1.71 The young men at this day receive their swords from the altar, that they may thereby profess themselves the sons of the Church, and for the honour of the Priesthood, in taking it for the pro∣tection of the poor, the punishment of malefactors, and the freedom of their Countrey: yet this proves quite con∣trary to the design of its Institution; for from the very time of their Knighthood, they rebel immediately against the Lord's anointed, and make havock of the revenues of the Church. Now, as for this custom of having a sword girt on them, it is without doubt derived from the military discipline of the Romans. For, as they thought it unlawful to fight an enemy before they had taken their military oath,* 1.72 with their swords drawn; so our Ancestors imagined they could not lawfully go to war, before they were consecrated by this cere∣mony to that service. And in that manner we find William Rufus King of England made a souldier by Archbishop Lanfranck. Yet this custom by degrees grew obsolete, from the time, as Ingulphus says, that it was ridiculed and exploded by the Normans; and a Synod was held at Westminster in the year 1102, whereby it was decreed, that Abbots should not create Knights. Yet some interpret this, that Abbots should not grant Church-lands to be held by Knight-service.

After that, it grew a custom for Kings to s••nd their sons to neighbouring. Princes to receive Kn••ghthood at their hands. Thus our Henry the Second was sent to David King of Scots; and Malcolm King of Scots to our Henry the Second upon the same errand; and so our Edward the First was sent to the King of Ca∣stile, to receive military arms, or virilia, (for that was the form and expression in such Creations at that time.) Then also, besides the sword and girdle, were added the gilt spurs, as a farther ornament; and hence they are call'd at this day Milites, and Equites aurati. The privilege of a seal was also granted them; for before this cincture and creation they could not use a seal, as I infer from the Abingdon book, which has these words. Which writing Richard Earl of Che∣ster intended to seal with his mother Ermentrud's seal, for (being not as yet Knighted) all his letters were sealed with his mother's seal. In the following age, Knights were made upon the account of their estate, as one may safely conclude: for they who had a great Knight's-fee, (that is, if we may cred•••• old Records,* 1.73 680 acres of land) claimed the honour of Knight∣hood as hereby entitled to it. Nay, in Henry the Third's reign, whoever had fifteen pound yearly re∣venue in lands, was compelled, in a manner, to receive this dignity; so that the title was rather a burden than an honour.* 1.74 In the year 1256 the King issued out a Pro∣mation, whereby it was ordered and declared throughout the whole Realm, that whosoever had* 1.75 fifteen† 1.76 acres of land, or above, should be Knighted, for the increase of Cavalry in England, as it was in Italy; and that they who would not or could not support the honour of Knight∣hood, should compound for a dispensation. This is the rea∣son why we so often find in the Records. For* 1.77 respite of Knighthood A. of N. J. H. &c. And such Present∣ments as these by the Jurors: R. of St. Lawrence holds an entire Knights-fee, and is of full age, and not yet Knighted, and therefore amerced. Thus far, and some∣what longer, unless I am deceived in this observation, in all our Law-forms (where a Jury of twelve men, who are judges of the fact, are empannell'd) any one that has a Knights-fee is stil'd Miles, or Knight, and those created by the King, Milites gladio cincti.

And in these times when the King made a man Knight, as the same Matthew Paris relates, he sat in state upon his throne, and in robes of gold of the most costly and best* 1.78 Bawdkin, with a crown of gold upon his Head; and to every Knight he allow'd 100 s. for equipage. And not only the King, but the Earls also conferr'd Knighthood in that age. For the same Author makes mention, how the Earl of Glocester Knighted his brother William, after he had proclaim'd a Tournament; and how Simon de Montefort, Earl of Leicester, conferr'd the same dignity upon Gilbert de Clare. Just as it was in France, as appears from the Patents for enabling any one who has procur'd letters to that purpose, to be created by what Knight he pleases. However, from that time no one has received that honour in England, but either from the King him∣self, or the Prince of Wales, permitted by his Father so to do, or the King's Lieutenant or General in an army; and that upon the account of brave actions either done or expected, or else in honour of Civil administration. And this was without question a wise contrivance of our Kings, when they had no more fees to give away. For nothing could be more effectual to excite brave men, and lay an obligation upon their best and most deserving Subjects, such as were nobly descended, and men of great estates; than as an istance of their good will and favour, to bestow the honourable title of Knights upon them, which before was always a name of great dignity. For when the Prince conferr'd advisedly upon merit, it was thought a great reward and favour, and look'd upon as a badge of honour. Those that were thus Knighted, esteem'd this as the price of Virtue, as an encomium upon their family, a memorial of their race, and the glory of their name. So that it is said by our Lawyers,* 1.79 that Miles is a name of dig∣nity, and not Baro. For a Baron in ancient times, (if he was not a Knight) was written barely by his Christian name, and the proper name of his family, without any addition, unless of Dominus, which is likewise applic••ble to Knights. But the name Knight seems to have been an additional title of honour in the greatest dignities, seeing Kings, Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, and Barons, were ambitious both of the name and dignity. And here I cannot but insert what Matth. Florilegus writes concerning the creation of Knights, in Edward the first's time. For the sake of his expedition into Scotland, the King publish'd a Procla∣mation lately throughout England, to the end, that who∣ever were by hereditary succession to be Knights, and had wherewithall to support that dignity, should be present in Westminster at the feast of Whitsontide, there to receive all Knightly accoutrements (save Equipage or Horse-fur∣niture) out of the King's Wardrobe. [ 1306] Accordingly there assembled thither 300 young Gentlemen, the sons of Earls, Barons, and Knights, and had purple liveries, silk-scarves, and robes richly embroided with gold, bestow'd upon them, according to their several qualities. And because the King's Palace, though very large, was too little to receive this concourse, they cut down the apple-trees

about the† 1.80 new Temple in London, ras'd the walls, and set up Pavilions and tents; wherein these young Gen∣tlemen might dress themselves in garments embroider'd with gold; and all that night, as many of them as the Temple would hold, watch'd and pray'd in it. But the Prince of Wales, by his father's order, with the chief of them, watch'd in the Church of Westminster. And so great was the sound of trumpets, minstrels, and acclamations of joy there, that the chaunting of the Convent could not be heard from one side of the Quire to the other. The day following, the King knighted his Son in his palace, and gave him the Dukedom of Aquitain. The Prince therefore being thus knighted, went to the Church of Westminster, that he might likewise confer the same honour upon them. And such was the press and throng about the high Altar, that two Knights were kill'd, and many fainted, though every Knight had at least three or four Soldiers to conduct and defend them. The Prince himself, the throng was so great, was forc'd to knight them upon the high altar, having made his way thither* 1.81 by his war-horses. At pre∣sent, he that is knighted, kneels down, and in that posture is lightly struck upon the Shoulder with a naked sword by the Prince, saying thus in French, Sois Chevalier au nom de Dieu, i.e. Be thou a Knight in the name of God: and then he adds, avancez Cheva∣lier, i.e. Rise up Sir Knight. What relates farther to this order, how famous, how glorious, and how brave a reward this dignity was look'd upon by men of honour, among our Forefathers; with what exact∣ness they practis'd fidelity and plain-dealing, when it was sufficient surety, if they promis'd as Knights, or upon their Honour; lastly, how far they were above the sordid humour of scraping, and how they con∣tributed upon the account of their fees, when the King's eldest son was honour'd with this dignity; these things I leave to other Writers.* 1.82 As also, when they had committed any crime that was capital, how they were strip'd of their ornaments, had their mili∣tary belt took from them, were depriv'd of their sword, had their spurs cut off with a hatchet, their glove took away,† 1.83 and their arms inverted; just as it is in degrading those who have listed themselves in the Spiritual warefare, the Ecclesiastical ornaments, the book, chalice, and such like, are taken from them.

I leave it likewise to be consider'd by them, whether these Knights have been by some rightly term'd Knights Bacchallers, and whether Bacchallers were not a middle order between Knights and Esquires. For some Records run, Nomina Militum, Baccalaureorum, & Valectorum Comitis Glocestriae.* 1.84 Hence, some will have Bachallers to be so call'd quasi Bas Chevaliers; though others derive the same from Battailer, a French word, which signifies to fight. Let them farther ex∣amine, whether these dignities, (which formerly, when very rare, were so mighty glorious and the establish'd rewards of virtue) became not vile, as they grew common and prostitute to every one that had the vanity to desire them. Aemilius Probus formerly complain'd of the same thing in a like case among the Romans.

Next in order to these Knights, were the Armigeri,* 1.85 Esquires, call'd also Scutiferi, Homines ad arma, and among the Goths Schilpor, from bearing the Shield, as heretofore Scutarii among the Romans; Who had that name, either from their coats of Arms, which they bore as badges of their nobility; or because they really carry'd the armour of the Princes and great men. For every Knight was serv'd by two of these formerly; they carry'd his helmet and buckler, and as his inseparable companions, adher'd to him. For they held lands of the Knight, their Lord, in Es∣cuage; as he did of the King by Knights-service. Esquires are at this day of five sorts; for those I but now treated of, are at present out of use. The chief are they, who are chosen to attend the King's person. Next them are the eldest sons of Knights, and their eldest sons likewise successively. In the third place are counted the eldest sons of the youngest sons of Barons, and others of greater quality; and when such heir-male fails, the title dies likewise. The fourth in order are those, to whom the King him∣self, together with a title, gives arms, or makes Esquires, adorning them with a collar of S. S. of a white silver colour, and a pair of silver spurs: whence at this day, in the west parts of the Kingdom, they are call'd White-spurs, to distinguish them from Knights or Equi∣tes Aurati, who have spurs of gold: of these the el∣dest sons only can bear the title. In the fifth place are to be reputed and look'd upon as Esquires, all such as are in any great office in the Government, or serve the King in any honourable station.

But this name of Esquire, which in ancient times was a name of charge and office only, crept first in among the titles of honour, as far as I can find, in the reign of Richard the second.

Gentlemen,* 1.86 are either the common sort of nobility, who are descended of good families; or those who by their virtue and fortune have made themselves emi∣nent. Citizens* 1.87 or Burgesses are such, as are in publick offices in any City, or elected to sit in Parliament.

The common people or Yeomen are such as some call ingenui, the Law homines legales, i.e. freeholders;* 1.88 those who can spend at least forty shillings of their own, yearly.

Labourers are such as labour for wages, sit to their work, are Mechanicks, Artizans, Smiths, Carpenters, &c. term'd capite censi, and Proletarii, by the Romans.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The King
• e 1.2

  Either relating to cene, which in Saxon signifies stout, valiant, &c. or to cunnan, which signifies to know or understand; from whence a designing sub∣tle man is called a Cunning man.
• * 1.3

  Bracton, l. 1. c. 8.
• * 1.4

  Seneca.
• * 1.5

  The Prince
• * 1.6

  Princeps juventutis
• * 1.7

  Aetheling.
• * 1.8

  Clyto.
• * 1.9

  Prince of Wales.
• f 1.10

  If he be eldest son; but if the first dies, the second is not born to the same Title. See concerning this in the Notes upon Cornwall. p. 15
• * 1.11

  A Duk••
• * 1.12

  Mar. •••• Forma••
• * 1.13

  Patrici∣••us.
• * 1.14

  ••g••ius, l. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Regni ••••lici.
• * 1.15

  R••gelia.
• * 1.16

  A gold ••erge af∣••••••wards ••••me into 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.17

  ••t. Paris ••cern∣•• John ••a••ed D. Nor∣••••ndy.
• * 1.18

  ••••rquis.
• g 1.19

  From the Saxon mearc, a bound; and mearcan, mearcian, to set out, mark distinctly, &c. in the same language.
• 1 1.20

  With the Coronet. Hol.
• * 1.21

  ••••m. 4.
• * 1.22

  ••••s.
• * 1.23

  ••••mites.
• † 1.24

  Comita∣tus.
• * 1.25

  Qui sa∣crum Co∣mitatum observa∣runt. Parati ad Cod.
• 2 1.26

  Comes domesticorum, Lord Great Master of the Houshold; Comes sacrarum largiti••num, Lord High Trea∣surer; Comes sacrae vestis, Master of the Wardrobe; Comes Stabuli, Master of the Horse; Comes Thesauri, Tresurer; Comes Orientis, Lieute∣nant of the East, Comes Britannia, Comes Africa, &c. Hol.
• * 1.27

  Eorles, at this day Earles. P. Pithaeus in his Me∣morabilia Campania
• * 1.28

  Ps••udo∣comites.
• * 1.29

  Girding with a sword.
• † 1.30

  Penbro∣chia in o∣ther wri∣ters.
• * 1.31

  Trabea honoraria.
• † 1.32

  Super∣••unica.
• h 1.33

  Of the nature and authority of these Counts Palatine, see the additions to Cheshire.
• * 1.34

  Counts Pa∣latine.
• * 1.35

  P. Pithaeus
• 3 1.36

  As for the Earl Marshal of England. King Richard 2. gave that title first to Thomas Mowbray, Earl of Nottingham, whereas before they were simply stil'd Marshals of England; and after the banishment of Mowbray, he granted it to T. Holland, Duke of Surrey, substituted Earl Marsha•• ••n his place, that he should carry a rod of gold enamelled black at both ends, whenas before they used one of wood. Hol.
• * 1.36.1

  Pithaeus.
• * 1.37

  Vicounts.
• 4 1.38

  Who conferred that title upon J. Lord Beaumont. Hol.
• * 1.39

  Barons.
• * 1.40

  In h•••• P••¦••rg••.
• * 1.41

  See G••••¦stus, p••••
• * 1.42

  Lords.
• * 1.43

  Abou•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 year 5••
• * 1.44

  H••••i•••• or Re••••
• † 1.45

  Possi•••• for ••••¦••usae i•• 30 p•••••• Many Th•••••••• Engl•••• in the C••¦quero•• time.
• * 1.46

  C••••i∣n••••.
• * 1.47

  Court ••••∣rons.
• † 1.48

  Mor•• mixtu•••• impe••••••
• * 1.49

  Matth. Parts, pag. 1262.
• * 1.50

  ••a••onage 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Eng∣••and.
• * 1.51

  ••ummons 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Parlia∣••ent.
• 5 1.52

  And it is noted that the said prudent King Edward I. summoned always those of antient families, that were most wise, to his Parliaments; but omitted their sons after their death, If they were not answerable to their Parents in understanding. Hol.
• 6 1.53

  For the Common Law doth not acknowlege Baron to be a name of dignity. Hol.
• * 1.54

  ••••hops ••rons.
• * 1.55

  ••bots ••rlia∣••ntary ••rons.
• * 1.56

  Matth. Paris.
• * 1.57

  Vavasors.
• * 1.58

  Sigonius.
• * 1.59

  Lesser Noble∣men. Knights.
• * 1.60

  Knights why call'd Milites.
• † 1.61

  Pro soli∣dis. Solidarii.
• * 1.62

  Banerett.
• * 1.63

  Purs. 2. Pat. 15. E. 3. M. 22 & 23.
• * 1.64

  Knights of the Bath.
• † 1.65

  Terulis.
• * 1.66

  C•••••• Jo••••.
• * 1.67

  Knigh••
• * 1.68

  De M••¦bus G•• ma••
• * 1.69

  ••ib. 1.22.
• * 1.70

  Nepot∣••••••.
• * 1.71

  ••pi••t. 94.
• * 1.72

  ••i••. lib. 1. ••fi••••. de ••atonis ••••o.
• * 1.73

  Others 800.
• * 1.74

  Hist. Mi∣nor. Mat∣th••i Pa••is.
• * 1.75

  An en∣tire Knights Fee.
• † 1.76

  Libra∣tas te••rae.
• * 1.77

  Respectu.
• * 1.78

  Bawd∣kino.
• * 1.79

  Miles a name of dignity.
• † 1.80

  Novum Tempium.
• * 1.81

  Per dex∣trarios bellicosos.
• * 1.82

  Degrada∣tions of Knights.
• † 1.83

  Clyp••o gentilitio in verso.
• * 1.84

  In d•••• so Pat. 51. H. 3.
• * 1.85

  E••••. 2.
• * 1.86

  Gentle∣men.
• * 1.87

  Citizens
• * 1.88

  Yeom•• Gem•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Saxo•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 common people.