DIRECTION FOR SEARCH OF RECORDS Remaining in the CHANCERY. TOWER. excchquer, with the Limnes thereof: viz. The King's Remembrancer. Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer. Clerk of the Extreats. Pipe. Auditors. First Fruits. Augmentation of the Revenue. Kings Bench. Common Pleas. Records of Courts Christian. For the clearing of all such Titles, and Questions, as the same may concern. With the accustomed Fees of Search: And divers necessary Observations. Cui Author THOMAS POWELL, Londino-Cambrensis. — Cum ●onat ocy●s Ilex Sulphur discutitur sacro, quam tuque, 〈◊〉. LONDON, Printed by B. A. for Paul Man, and 〈◊〉 to be sold at his Shop in Chancery Lane, at the Sign of the Bowl; or in Distaff Lane, at the Sign of the Dolphin 1622. TO THE GREAT DEPUTY OF THE GREATEST DEITY IN HEAVEN, THE CHURCHES CHIEF CONSERVER ON EARTH: JAMES, KING OF GREAT BRITAIN, FRANCE, AND IRELAND. suppose you see the Widow with her Mite, Debating, whether better to proceed, And lay it down in all the People's sight; Or else, to put it up again with speed Now she resolves to do't, And then she fears Th'acceptance of it, and the People's gieres: At last, she did conclude, and cast it in; Then slinkt away, and hoped she was not seen. Thus, with a very conscious cautious Eye, Our Author weighs the Work which he presents; Then views the Multitude that's standing by, (Knowing too well their old accustomed bent:) And now, no sooner does behold yourself, But lays it at your foot; and then by stealth Avoids; and hopes, the Giver is unknown: Yet this small Gift speaks great affection. Your Majesty's most faithful Subject, Th. powel. TO THE BEST BLESSED PORTRAIT OF PATERNAL PERFECTIONS, CHARLES, The High and Mighty Prince of WALES. IT's only thy Acceptance may repute What here I offer: Be but pleased to do't; I wish more happiness may ne'er succeed it, But that I may report yourself did read it. Tibi prior morituras fatis, Quam tui sim miraturas satis, Tho. powel. A CONGRATULATORIE TO THE SAFE RETURNE of that sincere Servant of the State, JAMES, Lord Viscount Doncaster. THe King receives thee with an open Arm, The Commons do accuse the fatal Storm That did detain thee, to behold a Scene Which might strike bloodshot every eye of Heaven▪ Wouldst know why we rejoice thy coming home▪ We love Religions Friends, and thou art one, Your Lordships to the most of his Nerve, Th. powel. TO THE HONOURABLE SIR JAMES LEY KNIGHT, Lord chief justice of England. THat thou art such a judge, so qualifi'de, As Authors heretofore have all prescribed A well elected justicer should be; Each man perceives the reason's pregnancy: Custom of doing well in lower place, Can with no spur of Honour change his pace: Besides an other cause I think upon, Thou wilt not blame the King's election. But why in stead of justice, to these labours Hast thou afforded them so many favours? I know no reason may induce thee to't, But that it is thy goodness makes thee do't. Your Lordships In all thankful acknowledgement T. P. TO THAT LAW-ENOBLING GENTLEMAN SIR Thomas Coventry Knight, As Generous in all Affayring, As General in Office of Attorney to his Majesty. TO have a thankful mind, and not to show it, Is to know much, and not let others know it; I will not flatter for a benefit, Yet better to acknowledge, then forget. A farther liberty I do not ask; That were to me (alas) too great a task: For if th'account be cast of what is due, I owe the most of any man to you. The more in your employment, and disposing, The more happy, Tho. powel. TO THE RIGHT WORSHIPFUL IN FULL RIGHT OF HIS OWN Worth, Sir Edward powel, Knight and Baronet, Master of his Majesty's Requests. Worthy Sir (to tell you true) Feign I would, but know not yet, Whether your place were made for you, Or whether you were made for it? If Fear, to take the double Fee; If giving Suitors expedition; And to respect Conveniency, Above Reward in each Petition, May make a Master of Request, Though thou be last, thouart not the least. The servant of your Name, and Family Tho. P. TO THAT GREAT LIGHT OF LAW LEARNING, THE Right Worshipful William Noy Esquire, of Lincoln's Inn, present Reader. TO You how much this work of mine doth owe, Myself must needs confess, & you do know. To say (I thank you) is but poor amends; For so the Fydler and the Beggar ends: Their Thanks lives, only, while the Alms is giving, But mine shall never die, while we are living. Signa virtutum tuarum longé, latéque ferens Tho. powel. TO THE READER. Books, Medicines, and Laws should never be published, or prescribed, but as Obiters, to meet with Evils imminent; ever applied, and ever complying with the present necessity. The necessity of this Subject complains itself in the Multiplicity of Suits, their expenses, and dependencies: which for want of their proper Records, are brought into the Court in so many Fractions; that the judge, (how painful, or learned soever) can hardly reduce them into whole numbers. This therefore have I out of my Collections of Twenty years Search of Record in the path of my practice composed and digested by way of a Calendar, into a summary Index of Direction for that purpose: which (intended only to such as shell make the good use thereof; and not arm and enable their purposes of prying into men's estates) I have now, at the last resolved to publish: Desiring your patience till a farther supplyance may give it, a more perfection: wherein you are accustomed to be so favourable to others in matters of less perplexity, That I know you cannot vary in me, who ever rest As jealous of your Love As you are curious of your liking Th. powel. TO THE READERS, MASTERS OF THIS MYSTERY. YOu that are Masters of this Science, I ask your aid, and free supplyance. Caetera turba tuas Muscas venare; Ministro Fulminis haec valido propria praeda: vale. T. P. DIRECTION FOR SEARCH OF RECORDS. THE CHANCERY. THE Office of Records of Chancery (commonly called the Rolls) hath divers Records of divers and sundry Natures, beginning with some part of King Richard the third; and so from thence drawn downward to the present. The Records of Chancery are divided into these kinds, viz. 1. Patents. 2. Close Rolls. 3. Bundles. PATENTS. In the Patent Rolls are contained all Grants made from the King to the subject, which pass under the great Scale of England: that is to say, All Perpetuities, fee Forms, fee Simples, etc. Leases for Life, Years, or at Will. Grants of Liberties. Licences, and Pardons of Alienation. Presentations. Annuities. Special Liveries. Special, and General Pardons. Pardons of Vtlarie. Licences of all sorts, which pass the Great Seal. And on the backside of the said Rolls (called Patent Rolls) are enrolled and endorsed these things following: that is to say, Commissions for the Peace. Commissions for Gaol Delivery. Commissions for Oyer and Terminer. Commissions to inquire post Mortem. And all the special Commissions which pass the Great Seal. CLOSE ROLLS. The next sort of Records of Chancery are called Close Rolls: In which are contained these things following: that is to say, 1. All Indentures, which are acknowledged in Chancery betwixt party and party, Subjects. 2. All Recognizances, which are acknowledged in Chancery betwixt party and party, Subjects. 3. All Deeds whatsoever, acknowledged in Chancery betwixt parties, Subjects. (The said Indentures, Recognizances, and Deeds being on the back of the Roll endorsed: And divers special Writs on the inside thereof.) Besides these several kinds of Close Rolls, there be divers other Rolls, which because they can challenge no other, or rather more proper station, I thought good to place here: viz. The foreign Roll, called the French Roll, containing Treaties betwixt this Kingdom and foreign Estates, and Treaties of Intercourse, etc. The Roll, called the Lord Treasurer's Roll, or (most commonly) the Fine Roll, wherein are contained the Patents of all Escheators, Customers, Controllers, Searchers, Vlnagers; and briefly, all such Patents as pass the Great Seal, and are in the gift of the Lord Treasurer for the time being. The Roll containing the confirmation of Liberties and Grants made from the King. The Parliament Roll, wherein should be written all Acts of Parliament. The Roll called watson's Roll, containing divers Grants and other things confusedly and promiscuously laid together; which one Watson (sometimes Clerk of the Great Seal, that is to say, betwixt the thirtieth and fortieth years of the late good Queen Elizabeth) did for six or seven years together keep in his Chest, and upon his death they were found, and brought into the Chaple of the Rolls. There is likewise (or should be) a perfect Roll of the Creation of the Nobility, in which all Creations might be enrolled: which I hold to be the rather necessary, for that many Grants have been past to one man, some whereof, under one Title, others under another, of Office, or Nobility (as the party hath been advanced:) which incertainty of the Patentees Title, causeth more expense, and search, than otherwise would be, if this Roll were duly kept. The Roll containing all judgements, Decrees, and dismissions of Causes in the Chancery, with some other few Rolls, which I omit, as being of little use to this present purpose. BUNDLES. The third sort of Records of Chancery, are called Bundles: In which are contained these things following, viz. 1. The Files of Bills and Answers in Chancery. 2. The Files of Corpus cum causa, with the bail upon the same. 3. All Writs of Certiorare, with the Certificates upon the same. 4. All Attachments, Proclamations, and Commissions of Rebellion, and Transcripts of Injunctions. 5. The Bundle, called the Scire facias Bundle, wherein are filled all Writs of Scire facias, Audita querela, Ex gravi querela, and their Transcripts. 6. Staple Bundle, wherein are filled all Certificates of Statutes of the Staple, all Extents returned upon the said Statutes, and Liberatees upon the same. 7. Stool Bundle, in which are contained all Transcripts of Supersedeas for Peace, and Good behaviour: 8. Gallows Bundle, wherein are filled all Certificates made from Bishops, for the Writ called Excommunicato capiendo, and the Supersedeas upon the same. 9 The Horn Bundle, in which are contained all bail upon special Pardons. 10. The Pot Bundle, wherein are contained all Bills from the Exchequer, of the Names of the Sheriffs who have there put in Sureties: And all Warrants of Attorney, for all Sheriffs of Counties and Cities, who have Sheriffs. 11. The File of Certiorare Bills, wherein are filled all Bills that are exhibited in Chancery for Certiorare: 12. The Arrow Bundle, wherein are filled all Letters Patents surrendered. All Indentures of Deeds canceled. All Acts of Parliament, certified by Certiorare. All Writs of Dedimus potestatem, to take knowledge of any Deed or Recognizance to be enroled, or canceled. All Writs of Dedimus potestatem, for the acknowledging of any Warrant of Attorney upon Writs of Entry; as also for the taking of the Sheriffs Oath. All Writs de Coronatore, & viridiario elegendo. All Writs of Dower, and such like, as are for the Prince. 13. The Escheators Bundle, wherein are contained all Inquisitions, taken either by virtue of Writ, or by virtue of Office. 14. The Privy-seal Bundle, wherein are contained all Privy-seales, directed to the Lord Chancellor or Lord Keeper of the Great Seal, for the passing under the Great Seal of any Grant from the King, that hath passed the Signet and Privy-seal. 15. The Bundle of Bills signed, wherein are contained all Bills signed by the King, which pass the Great Seal by the said immediate Warrant, without passing the Privy-seal at all. And there are likewise in the same Bundle all Warrants from the Court of Wards, as special Liveries, general Liveries, etc. 16. The Treasurer's Bundle, called the Purse Bundle, wherein are filled all Warrants of Escheators, Customers, Controllers, Searchers, Vlnagers, and the like. 17. The Cardinal's Bundle, in which are contained all Inquisitions taken upon the Survey of so many Religious Houses as are returned into that Office, which are these following: that is to say, Inquisitions of Abbeys suppressed, and returned into the Chancery, with the Shires in which their Lands lie, viz. 1 Essex 1 Blackmore Priory. 2 London 3 Hereford 1 Norff. 2 Broomhill Priory. 2 Suff. 1 Sussex 3 Bradwell Priory. 2 Kanc. 1 Warw. 4 Canwell Priory. 2 Staff. 3 Leicest. 1 Buck. 5 Begham Priory. 2 Northamp. 1 Sussex 6 Calceto Priory. 1 Northamp. 7 Daventree Priory. 1 Suffolk 8 Dodnes Priory. 1 Oxon 9 S. Friswid in Oxford Priory. 2 Bark. 3 Buck. 1 Suffolk 10 Felixstow Priory. 1 Essex 11 Horkesley Priory. 1 Oxon 12 Litlemore Priory. 2 Bark. 1 Kanc. 13 Lisnes Abbey. 2 Suffolk 3 Essex 4 Surrey 5 London 1 Hartford 14 Pray Priory. 2 Buck. 1 Suffolk 15 S. Peter in Ipswich. 1 Bark. 16 Poghley Priory. 1 Suffolk 17 Rumburgh Priory. 2 Norfolk 1 Buck. 18 Raveston Priory. 1 Buck. 19 Sandwell Priory. 2 Stafford 1 Essex 20 Stansgate Priory. 1 Suffolk 21 Snape Priory. 1 Essex 22 Titre Priory. 1 Kanc. 23 Tunbridge Priory. 2 Cant. 3 Suffolk 4 Norfolk 5 Surrey 1 Essex 24 Thoby Priory. 1 Bark. 25 Tuckford Priory. 2 Warw. 1 Bark. 26 Wallingford Priory. 2 Oxon 3 Buck. 1 Essex 27 Wikes Priory. OBSERVATIONS TO BE HAD in search of Chancery Records. FIrst you shall understand, that there be some few Grants which were never enrolled at all, but remain amongst the Bills signed: As that of 31. of Henry the eight, to Thomas Lord Audley, Lord Chancellor of England, concerning Sampkins Lands in Essex, with some others, which for the most part are notwithstanding enrolled in the Exchequer. Next note, you shall lose your labour, if you search in the Chaple of the Rolls for any Grant from the King, which passed the Great Seal but within four or five years' last passed: for they are not, or (at least) use not to be brought over thither so speedily. But in the mean time, are either with the Riding Clerk (who is one of the six Clarks of the Chancery, and takes his turn to do that service) for his year (that is, to have the controlling of all Grants which pass the Great Seal:) Or else (if they be passed him) they are in the Office of the Petty Bag: As are Inquisitions post Mortem, and divers the like, till they can be transmitted to the Chaple of the Rolls. And yet the Clerks of the Chaple can as sufficiently make the said search for you, as any other, and for the like Fee, etc. Further observe, that there be divers Inquisitions post Mortem, which are not to be found in the Chancery at all, by reason of some Omissions, and yet notwithstanding, are to be found in the Exchequer, by reason of the correspondency betwixt those two Courts (as I shall show in his place hereafter.) And for such Omissions, ye may redress them, by transmitting the said Records (by Certiorare) out of the Exchequer unto the Chancery (as occasion shall require.) Further, if you have occasion to have a Copy of any Patent, Roll, or Bundle, to plead or show in Evidence; you must either exemplify the same, or else (at least) take a Copy of the whole Record, though there be many other things contained in the same, which concern not your present purpose, or business; and have the same exactly examined, that Oath thereof may be made, at the pleading of the same: Besides that, it must be subscribed by a Clerk of the said Office, upon such examination by him so made. DIRECTIONS FOR THE exemplifying of any thing under the Great Seal. EXEMPLIFICATION. IF any Grant which hath been past the Great Seal, be enrolled, and contain more men's Estates then one; Which Original Grant can remain but in one man's hands: Or in case where the Original is lost, you would exemplify the same: you must first search in the Chaple of the Rolls for the Inrolment thereof; which being found, any Clerk of the Office may engross the same: And when it is engrossed, you must get it examined with the Inrolment, by two Masters of Chancery, who must testify their said Examination under their hands. And then (it being ready for the Great Seal) you must bear the Docquet thereof unto the Lord Chancellor or Lord Keeper of the Great Seal, to examine and peruse the same: Which being by him allowed, it may pass the Great Seal, and be exemplified. Where note, that you may exemplify nothing of course, but what is enrolled, though it be amongst the Bills signed, or by neglect or chance be omitted out of the Inrolment: Neither can an Inrolment be altered, in case where the Original and Inrolment agree not, though by the fault of the Clerk who enrolled and engrossed the same; without extraordinary and most curious examination of all the great Officers of the Chancery at the least (if so) etc. Fees of search in Chancery. For search of any thing in the Index or Calendar— xii d For sight of every Record you call for by the Index or Calendar— iiij d For copying of any thing, you pay for every Sheet— viii d For the Hand of the Clerk to any thing you copy— ij s Fees of Exemplification. For every Skin of Parchment which the Grant containeth xxvjs viijᵈ For the two Masters of the Chancery, their Hands to it— iiij ˢ For the Seal to it— xx ˢ uj ᵈ For delivering of the Docquet— xii d Out of the foresaid general Rule, I must except such things as are not in the Calendar, as the Bundles, called Brevia Regis, foreign Rolls, and the like; the search whereof is very uncertain, and intricate: For in those searches, your Fee must answer the Clerks extraordinary pains, etc. THE TOWER OF LONDON. THE Office of Records of the Tower of London, is a Member or Limb of the Office of the Rolls of Chancery, and was made and ordained only, to receive all the old Records from the Chaple of the Rolls of Chancery, at such times as the Master of the Rolls should think fit to disburden the Chaple, and send such Rolls as whereof there is less use (by reason of their Antiquity) over to the Office of the Tower. The Records in the Office of the Tower begin with some part of King Richard the third, and so extend backward towards the Conquest; howsoever, it hath but few Records more ancient, then of King john, and Henry the second. The Records contained in the Office of the Tower, are the like generally, and of those kinds, as are the Records formerly declared to be in the Rolls of the Chancery: viz. The like Patents, and Commissions. The like Close Rolls of all sorts. The like Bundles of all sorts. The Office of the Tower, by reason of the antiquity of Records contained in it, hath some Records, the like whereof are not in the Chaple of the Rolls: viz. The Taxation of the Spiritualty. A Book of Taxation, taken upon the Survey of the Spiritualties of England, or all the Spiritual livings: Whereof there is one likewise remaining with the King's Remembrancer of the Exchequer. Taxation of the Temporalty. A Book of Taxation, taken upon the Survey of the Temporalties of England, or all Temporal livings, divided into their several Denaries. But whether this latter Book be a Record, or no, I make question; it being brought thither of late times, by a Clerk of that Office: and (as I hear) likely to be carried away again, if not already gone. There is also the ancient Perambulations of Forests. Parliament Business. There be likewise divers Parliament Businesses, the like whereof are not in the Chaple of the Rolls. foreign Rolls. There be likewise divers Rolls of foreign Businesses, the like whereof are not in the Chancery. The Observations concerning the Omissions, or not inrolling of some Offices, and Patents, are the like as in the Chaple of the Rolls; and their remedies the like. The Correspondency the like between this Office and the Exchequer. And (to conclude) there be some Records in the Tower, which, because there is no order taken for the reducing of them into Calendars, and their distinct Classes, can neither be by me, nor any other, here, or elsewhere demonstrated. It were to be wished, that some course might be taken in time, for the repairing of those Records which are worn out with their Antiquity, before it be too late, and past remedy: It is the general Cause, therefore would have the help of the general Purse in that behalf. The Fees for search in the Tower. For search of any thing by Calendar, or without— x s And if you have once paid the Fee of search, you may for the same Fee search for the same thing so often and so long, as until you be reasonably well satisfied, with some consideration to be had respectively first and last to the Clerks pains. In all other things, as Copy. Hand. Exemplification. And generally, as in the Rolls of Chancery aforesaid. THE EXCHEQVER. THE Records of the Court of Exchequer are many; and they remain in the custody of divers several Officers of that Court (as appertains to their several places.) And of the said several Officers, because some have but the custody of Records transitorily, as they pass through their hands; and others, by way of controlment and examination: I intent only to show what Records the Clerks, (with whom the Records of the Exchequer are filled, or rather fixed for ever) have in their custody: viz. The King's Remembrancer. The Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer. The Clerk of the Pipe. The Auditors. The Clerks on the Receipt side, under the Chamberlains. The Office of the Pleas. And the rest of the said Exchequer. As for the rest of the Officers and Offices omitted, I pass them not over, but imply them rather in these above named. INDUCTION TO THE better understanding of the Records of the EXCHEQVER. BEfore I enter into the distribution of these Records, first I must give you to understand, that there was anciently devised an Extract of Chancery, which is at this day called the Original of Chaneerie. This Original or Extract, transmitted yearly from the Chancery to the Exchequer, containeth in it most of the businesses and matters belonging to the Exchequer. And by this Extract or Original grows the great german affinity betwixt the Exchequer and the Chancery. The Businesses of this Original or Extract, I now intent to distribute to the several Officers and Offices before recited, as they do properly appertain unto them, with such other matters of Record as they may peculiarly challenge unto them; especially according to the order of Sir Richard Lister, sometime Lord chief Baron of the Exchequer, made the sixth of july, in the five and twentieth year of the fortunate King Henry the eight, for reconcilement of certain Differences than had betwixt the two Remembrancers: as followeth. THE KING'S REMEMBRANCER. THE Records here are as ancient, as the beginning of King Henry the third; and few more ancient. In this Office of the King's Remembrancer are contained, entered, and filled these things: viz. All Writs of Privilege for The Lord Treasurer The Chancellor The Chamberlains The Barons The Marshal All the great Officers of this Court. All Writs of Privilege for Clerks, and the lesser Officers— of this Court. All their servants attending in their said Offices. All Informations upon all Forfeitures. Penal Laws. Intrusions. Contempts, etc. Also all Process made out by the Original, against all Customers— Controllers— Vlnagers— The Ganger of London Collectors of all Taxes— for their Accounts with all things belonging thereto. Recognizances taken to the King's use; as they be with the other Remembrancer also. All Process upon Recognizances for the King, for execution thereof by Scire facias, or otherwise, till the Defendant be discharged. All Evidences, Deeds, and Writings sealed, concerning the King, which are requisite to be enrolled in the Exchequer; as they be with the other Remembrancer also. All Deeds concerning any other party but the King, requisite to be enrolled in the Exchequer. Writs of Mittimus out of Chancery. Writs directed out of Chancery to the Barons of the Exchequer. Privy-seales directed to the Barons. All manner of Writs upon all manner of Commissions, for concealments of Customs of Merchandizes; with all Writs of Assistas in Auxilium, for collecting of the same Concealments, and all other Writs which concern such Businesses. All Letters Patents (as they may be with the other Remembrancer, at the pleasure of the Patentee. Also all Bags of Parcels of Accounts of Escheators Commissioners Searchers Stewards Bailiffs farmers Butler whereof there is any Parcel made. All Writs directed to the Exchequer, for search of any thing. All Inquisitions sent by Mittimus to the Exchequer. All Acts of Parliament sent by Mittimus to the Exchequer. Likewise all Process against these, viz. The Treasurer The Cofferer of the Household The Butler of England The Mayor and Fraternity of the Staple The Master of the Horse The Officers of the Mint And other great Officers for their Accounts There are likewise, since the making of the foresaid Order of Sir Richard Lister, by his appointment, some Records brought from the other Remembrancer to this; the certain Titles whereof appear not in the said Order. There is likewise a Press de rebus tangentibus Hiberniam. There is likewise in this Office, the Red Book; which treateth most excellently of the ancient Ordination and Orders of the Exchequer. As also the Book entitled, Liber Decretorum & Ordinationum Curiae Augmentationis Coronae: Which was made, for the most part, in the time of King Henry the eight, and is likewise in the Augmentation Court. The Book of the Taxation of the Abbeys. Likewise some Leidger Books of Religious Houses. Some rentals Surveys Accounts Grants Contracts Leases Compositions of Religious Houses, which (for the most part) were brought thither for some especial service of the King, upon Trial or like occasions. Some Allowances and Proprieties of Sacrists, Cellarists, and other Officers of Religious Houses. And I find in the Red Book, before mentioned, that there was in this Office a Book called Tricollumpnus. This Book (as the name imports) consisted of three Collumpnes. 1. The first, concerned the Church of England. 2. The second, the worthy Acts of King Henry the second. 3. The third, Negotiations public and familiar. But this Book is not to be found any where. And this shall suffice for the King's Remembrancer. As for the Observations to be had in search here, with the usual Fees thereof; I shall take occasion to speak in the next place. THE LORD TREASURER'S REMEMBRANCER. IN the Office of the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer are contained, filled, and entered these things following: viz. The Original or Extract of Chancery itself. For though the King's Remembrancer and the Clerk of the Pipe take out of the same such things as concern their Offices respectively, yet the Original itself doth always remain here. The Contents of the Original are these: viz. 1. The names of all Sheriffs Escheators Customers Controllers Searchers farmers of Vlnage farmers generally, That they may be called unto Accounts. 2. All Liveries sued out of the King's hands; that Process may be made against the King's Tenants, for doing of their Homage, and answering of their Reliefs. 3. All manner of Patents, granted by the King to any person, wherein is reserved or contained any Homage, or Fealty, or else any yearly Rent to his Majesty, or whereby a Fee is granted. 4. All manner of Commissions to any justices of Peace. justices of Sewars. justices of all kinds. That Process may be made against them for delivering of Recognizances Issues Fines Amerciaments Taken before them. 5. All manner of Commissions, directed to any person or persons, to inquire of any Lands or Tenements of such as have been offenders to the King. In which Commissions the Commissioners have authority to seize the said Lands or Tenements to the King's use; that Process may be made against the said Commissioners, for the profits thereof. 6. All names of all Collectors of Subsidies Fifteen Dimes Taxes generally To call them to account. 7. There is likewise in the said Original (or at least should be) all Pardons of course, granted of Grace, for Manslaughter; by which, though the Life be pardoned, yet the Goods of the party so pardoned, be forfeited: So thereby Process may go forth, to inquire what Goods or Chattels he had at the time of the doing of the Offence. 8. Also under the Title of Diem claufit extremum, are all the names of such persons, as after whose deaths the Escheator hath found any Office or Title for the King, by Knight's Service, etc. And in how many Shires the said Office was found, and before what Escheator: That in case one Office make no mention of any Tenure for the King, whereby he should have a Right; yet than they may examine all the other Shires, whether there be any Tenure for the King in them. Also there are, or should be, all Recognizances forfeited to the King in Chancery, and Charters of Denization: And these be the Contents of the Original for the most part; which though it were dis-used in the Lord Chancellor Cromwel's days, yet it was restored to his former use afterwards. Now I return to show what other Records, besides the Original, are with this Remembrancer: viz. All manner of Accounts of With all process upon these Accounts. Sheriffs. Escheators. Commissioners. Searchers. Stewards. Bailiffs of Franchises. farmers. All Gaugers (London only excepted) Accounts for Works, Buildings, and Reparations for the King. Pressed Monies. And what is not in the other Remembrancer. Also here are all Extreats out of The Kings Bench. The Common Pleas. The Clerks of the Market. justices of Peace and Assize. justices of Gaol Delivery. justices of Sewars. To be by him delivered to the Clerk of the Extreats. All other Extreats or Penalties from any other the King's justices or Ministers, other than what are formerly assigned to the other Remembrancer. All Writs of Privilege, of such as have cause of Privilege here on this side. All Recognizances of the Exchequer, as well as on the other side. All Evidences, Deeds, and Writings, sealed concerning the King, which are to be enrolled in the Exchequer (as well here as on the other side.) All Letters Patents, as well here as on the other side, at the pleasure of the Patentee. All Process against Commissioners ad certificandum, & ad seisandum, etc. other, then what concern Customs & Merchandizes. All Process upon Patents of farmers, made and recorded here. All Records of utlaries certified to the Barons; the Process whereupon, he makes and delivers to the Escheators. All Inquisitions, Offices, and Transcripts, other than what were formerly assigned to the other Remembrancer, pass through his hands to the Parcell-maker. All Taxes of payment of the Accounts of Sheriffs Escheators and Bailiffs. entered here. All Amerciaments afferred in Court. All Summons of Accomptants. All Neglects of their Appearances. All Amerciaments for mis-returne of Writs. All Awards of Writs, according to their return, thereby to note the Defaults. A Book made at every Term's end, of all judgements of any Debts discharged, to be by him delivered to the Clerk of the Pipe, for the parties discharge. The Book, which is commonly called Nomina villarum, made about the ninth of King Edward the second: Wherein is contained the Names of all the Hundreds and Villages of England, with the Names of all the then Owners of them; excepting some few Shires uncertified, or lost. The Book of all Knights Fees. The Book of the Aid of the Prince. The surveys of divers the King's Lands, taken of late years. There are with this Remembrancer, as with the other, diverse Records: viz. rentals Leidgers Surveys Accounts of Religious Houses, brought thither upon special service of the King. And lastly, here are the Accounts of Assessments, and other proceedings touching Romish Recusants. But this Limne is taken away from this Remembrancer, and made lately a several Office of itself. OBSERVATION FOR search in the two Remembrancers. FIrst, in regard their Records lie in several and differing places, there is thereby great difference in the manner and charge of search of the same. Next, you shall understand, that within the said several Remembrancers there are several Clarks, who have peculiarly and properly the keeping of several Records: And that the Records of these Offices are not as those in Chancery, common to all the Clarks alike; especially for the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer, who hath under him divers Secondaries and Clerks, appointed to their several Records distinctly: But it shall suffice, that I bring you to the Office, wherein you may promise yourself to find these Records, paying Fees for search as followeth. FEES OF SEARCH WITH the two Remembrancers. At though Exchequer, at Westminster. For search of the Red Book on the King's Remembrance side, as followeth. For opening the Chest— ij s For the Attorney, who showeth it, if he go of purpose to Westminster to show it— iij s iiij d Otherwise, it may be the Attorney will take less: viz.— j ˢ For search on the Lord Treasurer's side. For search of any thing in the Tenure-house, their Liguli Inquisitionum, and Gills Books— uj s viii d For search of all other things generally in the Office in London— as in Chancery. For search at Westminster generally, according to their pains in search— no certain Fee. For search in Vacation time at Westminster, your Attorneyes Fee at lest— iij s iiij d Besides the Ushers, for opening the doors. And for more certainty, I refer you to their own Tables of divers Fees, which are or should be in their Offices, to be seen publicly: I having only set down the Fees of mine own practice herein. And this shall suffice for the two Remembrancers. THE CLERK OF THE EXTREATS. WITH the Clerk of the Extreats are All Extreats of the Green Wax upon Fines, Amerciaments, Forfeited Recognizances, etc. Whatsoever is extreated and directed to all the Sheriffs of this Realm, of all such sums of Money as be lost and forfeited within their several bailiwicks, to the intent that they should levy the same for the King. And thus much shall suffice for the same Records which are here, and by transference to be found elsewhere, ut supra. THE PIPE. THE Records here, are some as ancient as in the time of King Henry the second. The Clerk of the Pipe, who by Office hath the execution by Summons of the Pipe, of all Debts determined upon all the King's Debtors, of what kind soever; hath accordingly the Making, Entering, and Recording of All Process of Summons Process of Extent against all the King's Debtors. Also The Book, called the Book of judgements, which is said to be likewise with the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer. All Leases of any the King's Lands, being but Quillets, under the Rent of five pounds yearly, and past under the Exchequer Seal, and Custody. For if they be above five pounds per annum Rent, Or under five pounds per annum passed in Reversion, Or past with other things, which make the Book exceed five pounds per annum: Then they pass under the Great Scale, and are to be found in the Chancery ut supra. All Leases and Grants, wherein there is Homage or Fealty, or such like service reserved to the King. The Roll called the Great Roll, which he engrosseth. And herein he conveyeth yearly all Vicouncels and Fermes and the arrearages thereof. And all Debts due to the King, are in the said Great Roll contained. Also here are All such Awards as the Barons make upon any Examinations of any charging or discharging them of Sheriffs Escheators Stewards Bailiffs All sums of Money by him cast up, such as the foresaid Accomptants shall be charged withal. Either By the foreign Opposer of Green Wax▪ Or, The Auditor for foreign Accounts. Here are also All Grants, wherein the King may have either Reversion, or Rent. Which, with diverse other things, he taketh out of the Original of Chancery, and enters the same, with most of his other Businesses, in the Roll called the Great Roll, before mentioned. Also here are All Fines, for not acknowledging of Homage or Relief, Extracted from the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer. All Amerciaments set upon Accomptants, for not keeping their days prefixed, or for what cause soever. All Debts recovered for the King, which he extracts from the King's Remembrancer, with the Fines and Amerciaments of any Accomptants there. All Duties for Vacation of Bishoprickes, and the like Debts. And all other Fermes and Debts, for which Process are awarded by the Barons of the Court. All Allowances Petitions Charges Accounts Discharges of Collectors and Accomptants generally, as the Court doth award them. All the King's Household Expenses, and other foreign Accounts. All Accounts of the King's Revenues, etc. These, With some other Records of diverse natures, not so proper or native to this Office as the former, being brought hither at some times for special service of the King, are here likewise. And briefly, hence issue as from a Pipe, all Process, whereby the King recovereth or extracteth any thing due unto him, or dischargeth the same. THE AUDITORS. THE Auditors are of two sorts: and so accordingly are the Records remaining with them, differing respectively. 1. The one, for the King's Revenues. 2. The other, for the Pressed Accounts. The Auditors for the Revenues are likewise of two sorts: 1. The one for his certain Shires. Accounts proper and foreign, of all Accomptants to the King. Accounts referred unto him by the Barons. 2. The other selected by his Majesty's Commissioners, to be Clerk unto them, when they have especial Commission for the letting, selling, & setting of any his Majesty's Lands or Possessions; and he is called Auditor of the Rates. AUDITOR OF THE REVENVE. WIth the Auditor of the Revenue are these Records following: viz. All the Accounts of the Revenue of All the King's Honour's Manors Lands Tenements in their several Circuits. Showing 1. What Lands every Tenant holdeth. 2. What Rend every Tenant payeth. 3. What Service the Tenant oweth in some cases. 4. What the clear value of the Lands held is. 5. What Reprisals, Perquisus, etc. 6. What Allowances and Fees issuing. Distinguishing 7. The Possessions and the Demesnes from the rest, etc. 8. The Freehold from the Customary. Charging and discharging 9 The Tenants, who are to pay the Rent. 10. The Receivers and Bailiffs, who collect the same. Next, are in his custody such Leases, as wherein there is reserved to his Majesty either Rend, or Service. Next, are with him such Leases or Grants as whereby the King is to pay Fee to the Leasee or Grantee, by the hands of his general Receiver of the County, etc. Next, here are the Accounts of All Customers. Escheators. Receivers, general and particular. Formors. Lastly, here are in this Office Divers rentals, Leidgers, Surveys, etc. For Lands in their Shires at least. And most of these last Records have come to their hands since the dissolution of the Monastique Houses, and for the most part upon occasion of especial service for the Crown, etc. And diverse of the said Records no doubt have been carried from this Office, by the Executors, Friends, and Clerks of Auditors deceased; of which, the King and his subjects might have excellent use and benefit. THE AUDITOR OF THE RATES. WIth this Auditor of the Rates, are 1. The Grants of what is sold, let, or set by the Commissioners. 2. The Rates of the same. OBSERVATION. SO that it is not sufficient for you, to search the proper Auditor for the Shire, for discovery of any thing past; but you must further clear the search with this Auditor of the Rates. And in some cases you shall not have full satisfaction of the passing of some things, unless you search as low as with the Clerk of the Papers of the Signet. AUDITOR OF THE PREST. THis last Auditor being for the Pressed Accounts, hath and taketh all Accounts of All 1. Monies given in Prest 2. The Buildings 3. Maintaynings 4. Repair of his Majesty's Navy, Houses, etc. 5. With all Accounts appertaining thereunto. 6. All Accounts of the Household, and all the Officers of the same. Fees of search with the Auditors. At the Office as in the Rolls of Chancery generally. At Westminster as in the Remembrancers generally. THE RECEIPT SIDE. THE chief Records on this side, within the compass of my subject, proposed only for the clearing of Titles and Estates, are in the custody of 1. The Chamberlains, and their Deputies, and 2. The Clerk of the Bells. Or at least, I may imply the rest within or under the Chamberlains, and Vnder-Chamberlaines. CHAMBERLAINS. THe Chamberlains have the custody or passing of 1. All Tallies stricken, in receipt of all payments made to the King. 2. All Foils joined, or unjoined. 3. Old Records of the Exchequer Court, being more ancient than those in the Remembrancers. 4. And Plead of the Common Pleas, till the end of Richard the second: And of the King's Bench, till the end of Henry the fifth; where their own proper Treasuries begin, and are kept in the Treasury called the Round Treasury, behind the Abbey at Westminster. 5. Some ancient Treaties with foreign Estates; being of more antiquity than the Records of the proper Treasuries of the King's Bench: And these are kept in a Treasury adjoining to the foresaid Round Treasury, and are kept very strictly under six Keys, belonging to so many several Officers of the Exchequer. 6. Divers Records; as Plead, and other things commixed, of the time of King Edward the first, King Edward the second, and King Edward the third: And these are kept in a Treasury near to the Records of the Augmentation Office, because the other Treasuries cannot contain them. The Chamberlains have 7. The Book, called Institutio Scaccarij, purporting the Subject in the Title. 8. The Black Book, which is elsewhere recited. 9 Offices post mortem, with the Parcels upon them, which they deliver to the Parcell-maker. 10. All Writs of Allowances, sent from the King, by Mittimus under the Great Seal. 11. The Assignments of Auditors, in some cases to take Accounts. 12. A Book of some of the ancient Laws of S. Edward. 13. The Book, commonly called Doomsday, made in the time of the Conqueror, consisting of two Volumes: viz. 1. The one, containing Suffolk, and Norfolk. 2. The other, containing all the rest of the Shires. THE INSTITUTION OF this Book. ANd this Book was made for the reducing of the Estates of all the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Bodies Politic and Civil, that then were to hold immediately of the said Conqueror: and so consequently it contains as followeth. THE CONTENTS OF Doomsday Book. 1. THe ancient Demesne Lands of the Crown. 2. The Lands of the then Lords Spiritual and Temporal, Religious Houses, Societies, Fraternities, Bodies Politic and Civil, etc. For the most part, by the Yard, Hide, Oxe-gauge, Carucate, Selion, etc. 3. Their Fairs, Markets, Privileges, Liberties, and Customs, etc. With diverse other things of like nature. And you shall understand what a Yard-Land, and what a Hide containeth, by the same Author; and how many Hides were then in England: And consequently, how many Knights Fees; and how they were in property of the Church, or Temporalty, appears by the same Book. The Fees of search with the Chamberlains, or their under Chamberlains. For search in the Round Treasury— Treasury of the Old Treaties— Treasury of the three first Edwards— viii s ij d For Copy of any thing in any of them, every sheet— j s For search of Doomsday Book— uj s viii d. For Copy of any thing in it, to be written in the old Saxon Letter, every Line— iiij d For search of the Ordinary Records, which belong unto them as Chamberlains, only concerning their Tallies, etc.— as with the Remembrancers, at their Office. OBSERVATION. Where note, that they have the keeping, or rather the conserving of the old Records of other Courts, and other things, as they are a part of the King's Treasury; and the Fees of Search and Copies are the greater, because they are divided amongst many hands. CLERK OF THE BELLS, OR, CLERICUS PELLIUM. WIth the Clerk of the Bells, are All Receipts Payments To the King, for what cause soever, for or by whonsoever paid. The Fees of Search At no certainty, but respectively to their pains. And thus much for the Receipt Side. NOW NEXT THe Office of the First Fruits, and Augmentation of the Revenues, offer themselves: For as for the Officers omitted, there is no Record with them, which may not be found with some other of the Officers formerly mentioned. The Controller of the Pipe hath only the controlment of what is with the Clerk of the Pipe. The foreign Opposer maketh up his Docquet, and delivereth it to the Clerk of the Pipe. The Parcell-maker, who gathereth together the Offices post Mortem, and maketh a Book of the Parcels; is but a retailer of Records: and they are elsewhere, as is formerly declared. The Marshal hath nothing peculiar to himself, which is matter of Record. The Usher his Office consists more in knowing the number, than the nature of the Records. The Clerk of the Nihils only offers his empty Purse to the Clerk of the Pipe. And therefore I pass these over, and address myself to that which requires the Remainder of my Lamp. THE FIRST FRVITS' OFFICE. WITH the Remembrancer of the First Fruits, and Tenths, are 1. The Valuation of all Bishoprickes, Denaries, and Ecclesiastical Promotions, which ought to pay First Fruits, and Tenths. 2. All Bonds for security of the First Fruits, and Tenths, be here kept and made. 3. All Process for the same. 4. All Lands belonging to most of the Religious Houses, certified into this Office, though not by way of Survey, yet in very distinct and exact manner; for the most part about the six and twentieth year of Henry the eight. Whereunto (as it is said) the Governors of such Houses were led, being persuaded by the Lord Cromwell, That what they brought in thither, should be restored, and confirmed unto them, in avoidance of the Praemunire: And that what was omitted, should be taken and reputed as concealed from the King. FEES For search of Valuations— xii d For view of either Book (the whole being deduced into two) which concern Lands belonging to any Abbeys— iij s iiij d THE COURT OF AUGMENTATION. THIS Court contains all the Records of the Lands of all Religious Houses, as well the greater, as the less, which at the time of their Dissolutions could be brought into the King's hands: As, 1. Accounts. 2. Surveys. 3. Surveys upon Accounts. 4. Leidger Books. 5. rentals. 6. Leases. 7. All other particular Evidences. 8. The Plead, Presentments, and Proceeding in their Courts, before dissolution, with others the like. 9 And lastly, the surveys taken upon the Accounts of most of the said Lands, upon and after their said Dissolution. The Fees of search in the Augmentation Court. For Search and Copy, as in the Rolls of Chancery, except it be out of Term time; and then, as in time of Vacation with the Remembrancers. THE KING'S BENCH. THE Records of the King's Bench are distinguished, according to the several Limnes thereof. The Limnes of the King's Bench, be two. The Records are accordingly of two sorts: viz. Plead upon all Actions personal, and some mixed Actions. Plead and Businesses of the Crown. THE PROTHONOTORIES SIDE. THe Records on this side, are Plead upon all manner of Actions personal. Attaints. Appeals. Inrolments of Purchases of Estates of freehold purchased, which may be there enrolled, as well as in the Chancery, or other Courts, at the pleasure of the Purchasers. And in the Red Book in the Exchequer, you shall find, that the King used to sit in person here, to entertain and answer foreign Negotiations. Treaties and Controversies in Religion, and Civil Businesses. But the more ancient of these, are with the Chamberlains of the Exchequer. And the latter are with the Keeper of the King's Royal Paper (as I take it.) The Records on this side, which are kept in the proper Treasury, are as ancient as from the beginning of the harmless King Henry the sixth, till this present: Of which, only the Records of one year and a half last passed, are unlocked up, and lie open to be searched, in the lower Treasury; and some few years more in their upper Treasury. Fees of Search in the Kings Bench. For Search of every Term in the upper Treasury— iij ˢ iiij ᵈ Besides the Keeper's Fees of the Treasury, which are little more than those of the Common Pleas Treasury— as in Common Pleas. For Search of every Term, of a year and a half past— uj d, THE CROWN OFFICE. THE Crown Office, in which are contained the Pleas of the Crown, Businesses of the Peace, and Good Behaviour; Indictments, Presentments, Attainders; Recognizances of divers sorts; Informations upon Penal Laws; and utlaries of Offenders, and Malefactors, etc. I do advisedly pretermit. THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS. THE Records of the Common Pleas, are Plead upon all Actions whatsoever, Real and Personal. Which may be pleaded at the Common Law. The Records kept in the Treasury of this Court, are as ancient as from the beginning of King Henry the fourth, till this present. Ten of the last years Records lie abroad. The former years are shut up. Before the four and twentieth year of our late Queen Elizabeth, the Real Actions and the Personal went promiscuously together. But since that time, The King's Silver and Fines Assizes Formedons All Real Actions Deeds enrolled Protections All these were separated from the Personal Actions. The Fees of Search in the Common Pleas. For search of every Term, lying abroad— iiij ᵈ For search of every Term, locked up— iiij ˢ For opening the Treasury Door— iij ˢ To conclude, take direction from the Prothonotories Docquets, and Remembrancers, to direct you in the Treasury for latter times. RECORDS OF COURTS CHRISTIAN. I Mean not to discourse every particular Court or Office in this kind; but only to pursue my Scope, proposed in the Frontispiece hereof, for clearing of Titles: Within which limitation, these Records do especially offer themselves: viz. Testaments, and Administration of Goods, etc. Presentations, and Confirmations. Immunities, Privileges, and other Rights of Prescription. TESTAMENTS AND ADMINISTRATIONS. ALL Wills and Testaments of the Defunct are proved, & recorded, either with the Register of the 1. Prerogative. 2. The Proper Diocese. 3. The Peculiar, or 4. The Visitant for the present. THE PREROGATIVE. IN all cases where the Defunct hath or had Goods, Chattels, Credits, or other Personal Estate, to the value of five pounds, or upwards, at the time of his Decease, out of the Diocese where he lived, and was resident, or died; the Will of the Defunct is proved, and recorded in the Prerogative, for the whole Estate. The Records of the Prerogative are as ancient, as until Septimo Richardi secundi, Anno Domini 1383. And it hath none more ancient, as appears by their Calendars, (which are exceeding well made up, and disposed.) For all such Wills as are of more antiquity, you shall search for them with the general Register of the Archbishop, in whose Office both these Businesses were carried, till the division of the same, made at the time aforesaid. ADMINISTRATIONS. THE same Rules and Observations are to be held in matter of Administration of Goods, etc. THE PROPER DIOCESE. IN case where the whole Personal estate of the Defunct doth, or did, at the time of his Decease, remain or be within the Diocese where he lived, and was resident, or died; so that the value of five pounds, or upwards, thereof is not, or was not (at such time) in any other Diocese: the Will of such Defunct is proved and recorded in the proper Diocese, with the Register of the Archdeacon, or his Official of course, or the Commissary. And in the Bishop's Visitation, with his Chancellor or Commissarie; with reservation only to the peculiars, together with the benefit of general Visitation. Note, that by reason of the familiarity between the Bishop's Commissary, and the Archdeacon, commonly you may find Wills, not being of Prerogative nature, so soon (sometimes) with the one, as the other. The like Rule is of Administrations in the Diocese. Only note, That sometimes you shall find Wills proved, and Administration granted in several Diocese (quoad) unto several parts or parcels of the estate of the Defunct, lying and being at the time of his death so separate and divided: And sometime those which of right are proved, or granted and recorded in the Prerogative, to be likewise called to be proved or recorded in the proper Diocese. For such Wills as fall in time of Visitation, either of the Archbishop, or the Bishop of the Diocese, you must search for them according to the Rule of their times, and years of Visitation, wherein they are very certain. And (as I take it) heretofore, when the Pope had power of Visitation in England, he took likewise Probate of Wills, etc. Which may be very well now missing inter alia. OBSERVATION. You shall note, that there be some Wills of the deceased, which cannot be found with the Register of any Court Christian; and yet are extant in the Chaple of the Rolls of Chancery, or the Tower, in their Offices post mortem. And lastly, some Wills, which cannot be found either with Register of Court Christian, or in Chancery, may (in case, inter alia, where the deceased hath devised any thing to any Society, or Body Politic) be found enrolled in the House, College, Hospital, Hall, Abbey, etc. to whom such things were devised; or amongst the Records of such Societies, dissolved; or amongst the Evidences of such, as unto whom the same things so given, have sithence come, if you pursue the same. And this shall suffice for Wills and Testaments; wherein I only write mine own Practice. PRESENTATIONS, AND CONFIRMATIONS. NEXT, there are with the Register of the Courts Christian, Presentations & Confirmations To Spiritual Promotions, being either Proper to the proper Patron, or accidentary, by Lapse. 1. For the proper Presentation, search with the Register of the Bishop, or of the Dean and Chapter, in cases where they have the Property originally; and the Record thereof is to be found with them respectively. 2. And with the Bishop's Register only, in case the Presentation falls unto him by Lapse. 3. But in case where any other private Patron doth present in his own right, in his due time; the best light for discovery thereof, is by the Induction, and sometimes by the confirmation of such Grants. 4. Or in cases where the King presents by Lapse, or Omission in the Bishop; search in the Chancery: and generally, in most cases search in the First Fruits. CONFIRMATIONS. COnfirmations are (for the most part) with the Bishop of the Diocese. And you shall find, before the Dissolution of the Abbeys, that Spiritual livings or Promotions were seldom given to any Religious House; but that the Patron of the same House confirmed it, and kept Record thereof. IMMUNITIES. THERE are next with the Registers of Courts Christian, Records of Immunities Privileges Rights of Prescription granted to Bodies Politic or Private. As, For exemption from paying of Tithe at all. For paying of a Rate Tithe. For paying, or doing somewhat, in stead of Tithe. For exemption from coming to the Parish Church. For exemption from diverse other Duties; as Watch, Ward, and others, of diverse other sorts. For Peculiarities. For Privileges of divers kinds. For Faculties of divers natures. And these, by custom and continuance, have attained to such reputation, that notwithstanding the Records should be lost, yet the Remembrance or Prescription of them holdeth his wont force and validity. And (which is most strange to me) that notwithstanding there be many times, in many cases, Records to clear the Prescription in question: yet, in pleading, they do often use no other argument, but the memory of Man, which may err. And therefore I could wish, that the several Registers of all Diocese, would collect all such Records; that thereof there might be a perfect Volume digested, for Succession. But alas, if most of these Immunities, Privileges, and Rights, were granted at the first, and generally afterwards confirmed by the Pope's Visitant in England: (as I partly know, and am otherwise induced to believe the same.) Where may I then say, these Records are to be found, so perfect as at Rome? Where (I have heard credibly) that they be very carefully preserved at this hour; and would (if they might be had) clear many tedious and expensive Suits for matter of Prescription. And if they whom it chiefly concerns, would be at the charge thereof; I durst undertake (with God's assistance) to bring them all exemplified faithfully into England within three years. Thus omitting to speak of any Record concerning Matters of Matrimony, which is Twynne with matter of Contract (having no other natural Mother than Court Christian) because it is every man's Learning, I pass it over, with all other their Records, which tend not to the enucleating of Title, and Estate. And if any one answer, that the Confirmation, or Nullity of Marriage, toucheth many an ones freehold and personal Estate very nearly, and therefore would not be so slightly pretermitted: I reply, touching Marriages questionable upon Propinquity of Blood, Precontract, want of Age in either party, indirect accomplishment, Disparity, want of Consummation, or disability of the Minister marrying the parties, with the like proceedings, tending to Separation, or Nullity; you shall search in the Proper Diocese generally; and sometimes, with the Register of the High Commission. But the Misdemeanours themselves in surreptitious Marriages, are (of later times) for the most part, to be found in the Star-chamber. And for the Solemnisation of the Marriage itself, search the Parochial Register: Which, because it is sometimes uncertain, in regard that the Marriage performed by Faculty of Licence, may alter the place; it were not amiss, that all Churchwardens might be enjoined to present (quarterly) every particular Marriage, celebrated in their Parishes respectively. THus having brought the execution and intention of these Labours into a Circle; presuming, that you will not, in Title of Copyhold, require me to open that, of which (for the most part) your Steward of the Manor, and certain of the copyholder's keep the Keys: Neither to inform you in the Customs, Liberties, or Privileges of Cities, and Towns Corporate; which your Librarie-Keeper, or other Officer, who keeps the Treasury of all the same Records in their common Guild-Hall, can only show you, (especially for the Customs of the City of London; whereupon old Dunthorne and their Liber Albus do most excellently treat) I rest Sub rostro Cyconi●. FINIS.